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Keene council adopts FY2025–26 budget after heated debate over fleet lease plan
Summary
At a Sept. 18 special meeting, the Keene City Council adopted the fiscal 2025–26 budget and approved related resolutions, following extended debate over a proposed 10‑year vehicle-lease (fleet) program and the use of COVID/ARPA funds. Council also set a Sept. 25 meeting to vote on the tax rate.
The Keene City Council on Sept. 18, 2025, approved ordinance 2025‑688 adopting the city’s fiscal year 2025–26 budget after a lengthy public and council discussion that centered on a proposed multi‑year vehicle‑leasing plan for police, fire and other city vehicles.
The budget, described in council packets as a roughly $13 million spending plan for the year beginning Oct. 1, 2025, will raise more property tax revenue than last year by $153,457 (about a 5.8 percent increase), according to city staff. Council also voted separately to ratify the property tax increase and set a Sept. 25 special meeting to vote on the exact tax rate.
Council discussion focused on competing priorities and the cost and structure of a proposed fleet program that would lease roughly 29 vehicles over a multi‑year contract. Supporters said leasing would ensure reliable, safe vehicles for first responders and reduce…
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