9.14.2026 City Council

The City Council of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, held a meeting on September 14, 2026, with significant focus on procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included the acceptance of substantial donations totaling nearly $2.25 million for the Point Of Graves Cemetery wall replacement project, with presentations from community groups and city project managers outlining the historic preservation efforts and funding needs. The council also approved a one-year memorandum of agreement with the Portsmouth School District paraeducators, including a 3.03% cost-of-living adjustment. Additionally, the council discussed and approved amendments to parking policies, including changes to the Resident Access Parking Program (RAPP) and downtown workforce parking, with motions to adjust parking fees and usage restrictions, aiming to improve parking availability and support local workers. A significant capital improvement plan item was introduced for municipal solar generation projects, including a $4.1 million solar array at the Jones Avenue landfill, emphasizing long-term cost savings and carbon emission reductions. The council also established a shuttle loop and public transit working group to explore feasible transit solutions to address parking and transportation challenges. Motions were passed to accept donations for community programs and to appoint members to various city boards. Overall, the meeting addressed multiple procurement and budgetary initiatives focused on infrastructure, community services, and sustainability projects.