KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene City Council’s Municipal Services, Facilities and Infrastructure Committee will meet tonight (Wednesday, Oct. 22) with one of its most debated topics back on the agenda: the future of 100 Church Street.

Committee Chair Mitch Greenwald previewed the discussion earlier today on WKBK’s Good Morning with Dan Mitchell, saying it’s time to bring closure to the long-running debate over whether the city should sell or preserve the small, city-owned lot. The parcel, located near the former Antioch University campus, has been the subject of complaints about loitering, litter, and drug use, as well as a rallying point for neighbors who hope to reclaim it as a community green space.

“It’s a pretty simple discussion that has gotten a little more emotional probably than necessary,” Greenwald said during the interview. He added that he plans to keep tonight’s public comment period tightly focused on the property itself, limiting speakers to one or two minutes each. “We’ve got to make a decision tonight,” he said.

The quarter-acre site was originally considered for sale to a nearby property owner earlier this year after reports of unsafe behavior, but that plan was met with community opposition. Several residents have since proposed alternatives, such as turning the space into a pocket park or community garden. The City Council voted last month to give neighbors additional time to present a viable plan before the committee made its final recommendation.

Greenwald emphasized that while the debate has touched on larger social issues like homelessness and substance use, tonight’s goal is to determine the best use of the land itself. Whatever the committee decides, its recommendation will go before the full City Council for a final vote next week.

In addition to the Church Street discussion, the committee will review new rules for bicycle operation within the downtown bike lanes, hear an update on the ongoing downtown infrastructure project, and consider a Public Works request to attach city lighting to two private properties — Margaritas and Local Burger.

The meeting begins at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers B at Keene City Hall.