Several residents used the council’s public comment period to thank city leaders and raise a local safety concern.

Wes Schram told the council he walked the park for the first time in a year and praised recent lighting upgrades that illuminate the sidewalk and flag area, saying the park is “well lit.” He asked the council to address a section of sidewalk near the industrial/city portion where “water seeps across there and it’s very slippery,” warning that someone less stable could lose traction.

Paul Knott, who said he and 78 others helped with the recent parade, thanked volunteers and listed participating groups including Pegasus Landing, Keene Fire Rescue, Keene Police and the Johnson County Radio Club, saying, “It just makes Keene great.”

In an extended address during public comment, the mayor pro tem emphasized trust in public service, urged staff remain free from political influence and encouraged the council to be accountable, innovative and collaborative as it enters the new year.

The remarks were offered during a short, special-called meeting that otherwise focused on canvassing the Dec. 13 runoff election and swearing in newly elected council members.