Keene · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Keene public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City ownership of new development water and sewer systems
As new housing goes up, developers are asking the city to take over their private water/sewer systems — one approved in principle (Cottage Court), one denied (Elmside). It's a tradeoff: better water quality and billing enforcement for the city, but more maintenance cost and liability.
Wastewater Treatment Plant HVAC Replacement
A resolution would move capital reserve funds into the wastewater plant's HVAC replacement project — essential upkeep for a critical utility facility.
Wastewater Treatment Plant Driveway Access Restriction
After-hours drag racing and donuts on the plant driveway prompted Swansea police complaints and damaged new pavement. A gate locked after staff hours will keep the road open days and Saturdays for recreation and accessibility.
Eversource Transmission Structure Replacement Access
Eversource needs to cross city-owned land in Swanzey to reach transmission lines near the airport. The city is switching from an easement to a revocable license to keep more control.
Martel Court Fuel Tank Replacement
The wastewater plant's fuel tank replacement advances with Lakes Region Fuel Systems doing both design and installation, saving roughly $40,000 in engineering and about $20,000 versus the city's estimate.
Martel Court pump station failure risk
A leaking valve at the pump station has been patched for three years because there's no way to bypass the station. A permanent fix — new river crossing and all — is now funded and ready to build.
Drinking water source protection fencing
The council was to consider accepting a state grant to help protect Keene's sources of drinking water.
Local Source Water Protection Grant
The council was to consider accepting a state grant to help protect Keene's sources of drinking water.
Stormwater channel rehabilitation design
The city is hiring Dubuis & King for up to $96,000 to design repairs to the overgrown Tannery Brook tax ditch and the eroding stream bank at Martel Court, work intended to reduce future flooding and protect access to the sewer pump station.