KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council held a public hearing Thursday night on the proposed fiscal year 2025-2026 municipal budget, totaling $81,746,416 and calling for a modest 2.06% increase in the city’s tax rate. Councilors heard from city staff, community organizations, and residents during a detailed presentation of budget allocations and projected revenues.

The proposed budget requires $30.29 million to be raised through property taxation and includes an estimated $22.89 million in operating revenues. The budget’s projected impact is a 28-cent increase per $1,000 of assessed property value.

Budget Priorities and Staffing Increases

City staff highlighted key priorities, including public safety and library services. The addition of four new firefighter positions, combined with wage adjustments for both fire and ambulance services, accounts for a $648,000 increase. Library services are set to receive a $126,000 boost for part-time wages, aiming to align staffing with public demand.

Personnel changes—both contractual union obligations and wage increases for non-union staff—make up $1.49 million of the overall budget increase. .

Revenue Highlights and State Aid

On the revenue side, the city anticipates an increase of $600,000 in interest income and a $100,000 rise in motor vehicle registration fees. Municipal aid from the state is expected to remain flat. Councilors noted that while the budget maintains service levels, the city’s ability to adapt to future state-level funding changes may require continued use of reserves and creative financial planning.

Jumanji 30th Anniversary Celebration Sponsor Change

Councilors unanimously approved a change in event sponsorship for the upcoming festival, scheduled for June 20–22.

The change came after the Greater Monadnock Collaborative, the original event sponsor, notified the city that it would no longer be moving forward in that role. On May 27, BW Enterprises, LLC, led by Brandie Wells, submitted a formal request to the Mayor and City Council to assume responsibility as the event producer.

City staff reviewed the request and reported that the original event planning committee, which had already been attending city protocol meetings, will remain involved. BW Enterprises will now provide insurance, sign the city’s license agreement, and assume full fiscal responsibility for the event, including costs for any municipal services.

The Council passed the motion to reissue the event license with no further discussion required, expressing appreciation for the smooth transition.

“I’d just like to thank Brandie Wells and her team for stepping in,” said Councilor Ed Haas. “A lot of work had already been done by the chamber and others, and this is not a reflection on the chamber—it’s simply about following the proper process.”

Councilors also recognized Cathy Bergstrom as one of the “prime movers” behind the Jumanji celebration, crediting her with helping guide the committee that developed the original vision for the event.

 Outside Agency Requests and Public Comments

Much of the public hearing focused on allocations to outside agencies and community nonprofits. The Keene Senior Center requested a funding increase from $16,500 to $20,000. “We serve over 468 members, 291 of whom live in Keene,” said the center’s board president, Ockle Johnson. “These funds support wellness, education, and community for our city’s aging population.”

Arts Alive, which promotes cultural programming throughout the Monadnock Region, requested an increase from $500 to $10,000. Director Jessica Iris cited a $25,000 loss in federal funding, a blocked $33,000 USDA grant due to federal restrictions, and a $150,000 cut to the NH State Council on the Arts that affects their operating and programmatic support.

Other recommended allocations include:

  • Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA): $5,000

  • Monadnock Valley Transportation: $1,250

  • Harbor Care: $10,000

  • Home Healthcare, Hospice & Community Services: $105,775

  • Monadnock Center for Violence Prevention: $6,000 (up from $5,000)

  • Monadnock Family Services (Street Outreach): $35,000 (level funded)

  • Monadnock Regional Child Advocacy Center: $6,500 (up from $4,250)

  • Southwestern Community Services: $10,000

Peace Pole Installation

Councilors approved moving forward with a standalone peace pole installation on Central Square, following a recommendation from the Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee.

Next Steps and Budget Amendments

Amendments to the proposed budget were discussed with plans to table the updated “B” version until the June 19 Council meeting. Proposed amendments must be submitted by4 p.m. on June 17 for consideration.

The public hearing was closed with a reminder that written comments may still be submitted and that ongoing feedback is welcome as the budget process moves forward.