On January 1st, the City of Keene will officially welcome a mix of new and returning City Council members during a ceremony at City Hall, set to begin at noon. This event marks the commencement of the City Council term for 2026-2027.

The event is a continuation of the city’s tradition and demonstrates the ongoing dedication of the council to serving the community. The Mayor highlighted the importance of civic pride among the council members, who were motivated by a desire to contribute to the city’s ongoing success and advancement. He expressed confidence that the new council will utilize creativity and informed judgment to improve the community’s quality of life.

Those taking the oath include Kris E. Roberts and Jacob R. Favolise representing Ward 1; Edward Haas in Ward 2; Molly Ellis in Ward 3; Catherine Workman in Ward 4; and Philip M. Jones for Ward 5. At-large councilor positions will be filled by Bettina A. Chadbourne, Randy L. Filiault, Mitchell H. Greenwald, Michele Chalice, and Laura Ruttle-Miller.

Notably, Councilor Haas is transitioning from an At-Large role to become the Ward 2 Councilor, while Councilor Greenwald is moving in the opposite direction, going from Ward 2 to an At-Large position, which has a shorter duration. Furthermore, Ellis, Chalice, and Ruttle-Miller are being inaugurated as first-time council members.

Several councilor terms are set to conclude on December 31, 2029, while others—including the at-large positions and one seat in Ward 1—will wrap up on December 31, 2027. The inauguration ceremony is accessible to the public, and local residents are invited to attend this significant moment as the City Council embarks on its new term.