Government

The Planning, Licenses and Development Committee advanced a zoning ordinance updating the city’s definition of “family” to comply with state law.

Keene officials are inviting residents and downtown business owners to a new monthly “Coffee and Hard Hats” forum designed to provide updates and answer questions as downtown construction preparations move forward.

Keene councilors advanced the proposed $80.2 million city budget Thursday, approved funding for four firefighters and authorized additional downtown project financing.

Keene residents can comment on the proposed $79.8 million city budget during a public hearing Thursday before a final council vote later this month.

Keene councilors advanced major infrastructure and budget measures Thursday night, including funding for four additional firefighters, millions in capital projects and a plan to close a downtown infrastructure funding gap.

Keene downtown project ombudsman George Downing says businesses are preparing for construction expected to begin in mid-July, while city officials work to reassure the public that downtown will remain open and accessible throughout the project.

Keene councilors discussed Route 101 upgrades, pesticide testing, downtown construction and neighborhood concerns Wednesday.

Keene city councilors approved a $26 million contract for the Downtown Infrastructure Project, rejecting a proposal to seek additional cuts and keeping construction on track for a summer start.

Keene officials reviewed the proposed FY 2027 Public Works budget during a special Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee meeting Tuesday, discussing staffing improvements, infrastructure investments, and a proposed 5% increase in water and sewer rates.

Keene officials are moving ahead with a $26 million downtown infrastructure project after receiving a lower-than-expected bid from Casella Construction, while also advancing grants, utility policy changes and discussions about expanding Fire Department staffing.