Keene City Council Swears in New Clerk, Approves Beer Garden Proposal and Traffic Changes

KEENE — The Keene City Council convened Thursday night with a mix of recognitions, new appointments, and legislative actions that will shape both community celebrations and city infrastructure in the coming months.

Terri Hood was formally introduced as Keene’s new City Clerk, marking her first council meeting since being sworn in earlier in the day. Hood steps into the role following the retirement of longtime clerk Patty Little, who officially stepped down on Wednesday.

The meeting opened with a series of community recognitions, including a tribute to retired Keene State College mathematics professor and local runner Ockle Johnson for his Boston Marathon achievements; and proclamations designating Kids to Parks Day, Bike Week and Frontline Worker Appreciation Month in Keene. The latter paid homage to the city’s teachers, nurses, police, firefighters, and EMS workers.

A key highlight of the session was the council’s approval of a 79-E tax incentive application from 34 Court LLC, paving the way for a proposed new indoor beer garden on Court Street. The project was approved under the city’s community revitalization tax relief program, intended to spur downtown redevelopment.

In legislative action, the council gave final approval to five traffic ordinances on second reading. Changes include updates to stop and yield sign locations, new vehicle turning limitations, and traffic signal adjustments. Notably, a new stop sign was authorized at the intersection of Wilber and Water streets.

Several larger committee items, including safety concerns on Court Street and proposals for downtown infrastructure improvements like adding audio/data cables and banner supports, were placed on more time for further review. A verbal update from city staff on the ongoing downtown infrastructure project was accepted as informational.

City Manager Elizabeth Dragon presented an overview of the proposed fiscal year 2026 operating budget, which includes a modest tax rate increase and funds for additional firefighters. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for June 5.