Keene resident raises ZIP-code boundaries as barrier to retail growth

Mister Jackson told the Keene Economic Development Type A Board that inconsistent U.S. Postal Service ZIP-code boundaries are limiting the city’s ability to attract national retailers and reach residents with direct-mail marketing.

"Many retailers, when you go into their stores, they ask you to offer up your zip code," Mister Jackson said, explaining that half of Keene’s population appears under ZIP code 76031 while nearby areas use 76059, diluting Keene’s retail profile. He said developers in current projects may default to one code or the other unless the city pushes for a change.

The complaint drew support from other board members, who noted that shifts in ZIP-code assignment affect everything from targeted coupons to which retailers include a community in their direct-mail campaigns. Mister Jackson also told the board that Keene — which he described as a town of about 7,000 people — lacks a full‑service grocery store within five miles, a gap he linked to the addressing and marketing challenges.

Board members discussed next steps, including coordinating with the city manager and the county GIS analyst, Elizabeth Kiogen, to map addressing boundaries and consider a formal request to USPS if warranted. One speaker cautioned that some mailing campaigns are permitted only periodically and that the board would need to use any such opportunity strategically.

The board did not take formal action during the discussion. Staff and board members agreed to pursue further review with city staff and the county GIS office to clarify boundaries and potential remedies.