KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene City Manager Elizabeth Ferland was Tuesday’s featured guest on WKBK Radio’s “Good Morning with Dan Mitchell”, where she outlined the city’s proposed 2025–2026 budget and previewed this Thursday’s public hearing.

Ferland used the opportunity to explain the $76 million spending plan, which is $468,000 under the city’s fiscal policy cap. Of the total budget, approximately $30 million will be raised through taxation, with the city portion of the tax rate increasing by 2.6%—translating to an estimated $80 annual increase for a home valued at $300,000.

She emphasized that the budget was developed in line with fiscal policy adopted by the City Council last summer, which limits tax revenue growth based on a three-year average of the Northeast regional Consumer Price Index (4.1% this year).

Budget Drivers and Department Needs

A significant driver of this year’s budget is the addition of four new firefighters, accounting for roughly $450,000 in added expenses. The move is in response to a sharp rise in fire and EMS calls, which have increased from 5,000 in 2019 to over 6,300 in 2023. Overlapping calls have nearly doubled, prompting the city to add a third ambulance—previously staffed through costly overtime. Ferland noted that the city is applying for a federal SAFER grant by July 3, which could fund three additional firefighters per shift.

The city expects a $200,000 boost in ambulance revenue, thanks in part to Keene Fire now handling 911 calls for skilled nursing facilities formerly served by DiLuzio Ambulance.

Meanwhile, the Keene Police Department continues to face staffing challenges. Ferland acknowledged that the department hasn’t been fully staffed since 2017 and often operates with six to eight officer vacancies. The problem is compounded by a “vicious cycle” of retirements and the months-long process to train new hires.

Infrastructure and Capital Projects

Ferland also discussed infrastructure investments, including the city’s decision to purchase an asphalt paver. This will enable more cost-effective sidewalk repairs in residential neighborhoods, reducing the need to wait for larger concrete projects.

She highlighted a new “WOW initiative” (Ward Optimization Weeks) led by the public works director, aimed at addressing maintenance issues across the city’s wards.

No changes are proposed in this budget related to the downtown revitalization project, which is already being funded through capital reserves. Other projects—like the West Keene Fire Station and the downtown public bathroom—have been postponed pending grant funding and are now aligned with future roadwork on Gobo Avenue.

Public Hearing and Next Steps

Residents will have a chance to weigh in on the proposed budget at a public hearing scheduled for Thursday, June 5. Ferland encouraged citizens to attend and share their views. The City Council is expected to vote on the final budget on June 19, and any proposed changes must be submitted to the city clerk by the Tuesday prior.

Listeners who missed the live interview can tune in to WKBK’s archives or visit the city’s website for more details on the budget proposal and how to participate in the public process.

Listen to the full interview: