Government

Excerpt

Keene Mayor Jay Kahn discussed Tuesday’s election, downtown construction, new housing developments and transportation improvements during his monthly appearance on WKBK Radio’s Good Morning with Dan Mitchell.

Keene officials are weighing a proposed 25-mph speed limit on School Street, keeping the approved one-lane traffic plan around Central Square and improving communication with downtown businesses during ongoing infrastructure work.

Keene officials are considering new zoning standards for short-term rentals after a Thursday night City Council public hearing. The proposal would define the use, establish property standards and require local contacts for non-hosted rentals. The council also heard a proposal to convert a School Street outbuilding into a one-bedroom apartment.

Keene City Council will hold an Oct. 15 public hearing on proposed short-term rental rules addressing zoning, property appearance and local contact requirements, amid ongoing concerns about housing affordability and neighborhood impacts.

Keene has streamlined permitting with a new online system, faster approvals for select projects and a proactive approach to code enforcement.

Keene’s Planning, Licenses and Development Committee Wednesday approved the 2026 Tree Lighting Festival, advanced a proposed 21-and-older kratom sales restriction, delayed a downtown dog ordinance and recommended denying a 0 Howard Street zoning change.

Keene officials and Casella Construction outlined revised phasing for the downtown reconstruction project Wednesday, including upcoming work and plans to maintain business and pedestrian access.

Keene Mayor Jay Kahn discussed downtown construction, free parking, housing, heating assistance, elections, community events and proposed data-center regulations Monday on WKBK.

Walpole officers Joshua Healy and Jonah Merkle were honored for going beyond their normal duties at an annual statewide awards ceremony.

Keene, Spofford and Surry are among New Hampshire communities receiving more than $3.6 million in federal firefighter funding.