Keene, New Hampshire Development News
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City Council Meeting - Media
Published: Jul 2, 2026
Council Refers Councilor Haas's Request for Enhanced Capital Project Communication to City Manager
The Municipal Services Facilities and Infrastructure Committee recommended that a communication from Councilor Haas regarding project information, signage, and enhanced public outreach for capital projects be referred to the city manager. Councilor Haas's request aimed to improve public awareness and understanding of ongoing capital projects. The committee's recommendation was accepted by the council, and the city manager will work on developing a plan for improved communication and outreach.
Zoning Map Amendment Proposed for Zero Howard Street, Changing Designation to Conservation
The council considered a communication from Stephen Ringland proposing a zoning map amendment for Zero Howard Street, seeking to change the designation from medium density to conservation. This proposal is accompanied by Ordinance O 2026-13 and has been referred to the Joint Planning and PLD Committee for review.
Airport Solar Project Faces Tax Credit Complications; Potential $2.9 Million Benefit Hinges on Court Ruling and Steel Procurement
The City Manager provided an update on the municipal solar project at the airport, a five-megawatt project intended to be the largest municipally owned solar project in New Hampshire. The project faced complexities regarding federal tax credits, specifically the 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Initially, the city qualified for a 5% safe harbor by purchasing solar panels through Revision, but a subsequent IRS determination disallowed this for projects over 1.5 megawatts. The city explored alternative avenues, including the 'Buy America' provision. A recent court decision on June 6, 2026, vacated the IRS notice, potentially making the city eligible for the 5% safe harbor again, which could be worth approximately $2.9 million. To preserve this credit, the city might need to purchase American steel for the racking system, a potential change order of up to $200,000. However, this depends on the timely availability of the steel and confirmation of an exemption for the previously purchased non-American solar panels. The manager stressed that the project has a December 2027 completion deadline and that decisions on the steel purchase order need to be made soon. Even without the full tax credits, the project is projected to save the city $8 to $13 million over 25 years. The federal tax credit is being phased out, currently at 85% for 2026.
Council Adopts Resolution to Discontinue Undeveloped 1866 Right-of-Way on Elm Street for Condominium Project
The Municipal Services Facilities and Infrastructure Committee recommended the adoption of Resolution R 2026-22A, which concerns the absolute discontinuance of a portion of a right-of-way across a property on Elm Street, with anticipated changes from the city attorney. The resolution is a formality to clarify historical records concerning a right-of-way laid out in 1866 that was never developed or utilized. This discontinuance is necessary to facilitate an 18-unit condominium project on the parcel. The resolution also addresses the relocation of a water main within the existing traveled way of Elm Street. Councilor Greenwald recused himself from voting due to a business relationship with the petitioner. The resolution was adopted unanimously by the council, with one recusal.
FY26 Fire Department Budget Update Filed as Informational, Further Review Planned
The City Council reviewed a Finance Organization and Personnel Committee report concerning the FY26 Fire Department budget. The report was filed as informational, with the understanding that it will be taken up again. The City Manager indicated that a future meeting, likely August 6th, would cover departments experiencing budget pressures in the last fiscal year.
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The Keene News archive
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Finance, Organization and Personnel Committee Meeting - Media
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