KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Keene’s Planning, Licenses, and Development Committee worked through a packed agenda Wednesday night, with the most spirited debate over whether the city should adopt new rules requiring the muzzling of dogs deemed dangerous.

The issue was brought forward by Ward 2 Councilor Bobby Williams, who has pushed for local action since a small dog named Suzette was mauled in Keene last year. At the time, the city could not act because New Hampshire law only allowed muzzling in the context of rabies outbreaks. That changed last month, when Gov. Chris Sununu signed House Bill 250 into law, giving municipalities the authority to regulate the muzzling of “vicious dogs.”

Williams, in a letter to the council, urged colleagues to revisit Suzette’s case and consider whether Keene should require dogs with a history of biting or attacking to wear muzzles in public. He credited State Rep. Jodi Newell and other lawmakers for sponsoring the legislation that made local control possible.

City Attorney Amanda Palmiara explained that because New Hampshire is a Dillon’s Rule state, Keene can only regulate matters the legislature specifically authorizes. The new law now permits ordinances that mandate muzzling for dogs that have bitten, attacked, or acted aggressively toward people or other animals.

Animal Control Officer Michelle Grimes, who is also a certified dog trainer, stressed that many canine behavioral problems stem from human error. She suggested that any ordinance balance safety measures with opportunities for training and rehabilitation. Committee members discussed possible requirements such as owner education programs, tracking repeat offenders across ownership changes, and allowing dogs to “earn” their way out of muzzling through good behavior.

Public input also shaped the conversation. Suzette’s owner described the trauma of the attack and urged stronger protections for victims. Others raised concerns about broader nuisance issues, such as persistent barking. Rep. Newell cautioned the city to take a careful, community-minded approach.

After nearly an hour of discussion, the committee voted to place the matter on more time, directing Palmiera to begin drafting an ordinance and research model policies from other communities.

While the dog issue dominated the night, the committee also advanced several other measures:

  • Long-term planning endorsed: The committee recommended adoption of the 2025 Comprehensive Master Plan, which sets broad goals for housing, development, and sustainability.

  • Regional cooperation: Members approved entering a mutual aid agreement with the Town of Marlborough for building inspection and code enforcement.

  • Zoning and code updates: A series of amendments to the city’s Land Development Code moved forward, including changes to definitions, setbacks, and application procedures. One proposal—to encourage housing development in the Neighborhood Business District—passed on a 3–3 tie vote, reflecting concerns about the potential impact on East Keene residents. That ordinance will now go before the full council.

The committee will revisit the dog muzzling proposal once the city attorney presents draft language.