# KBE Finance Committee Meeting 11.3.2026

The Keene School District Board of Education Finance Committee met November 3, 2026, to review the financial report, grants, budget transfers, and the upcoming budget process. The report projected a roughly $170,000 shortfall in energy costs amid oil prices above $5 per gallon, and flagged rising telephone costs as the district replaces end-of-life copper lines with internet-based emergency lines and cellular backups. An audit identified more than 20 phone lines that can be canceled. Special-education transportation was projected about $60,000 over budget; the district reported negotiating bus prices below the bids it received, while discussing whether another bus request could be accommodated. The Fuller building project was expected to remain within budget after value engineering, including removal of the front entrance from the project scope, though change orders remain a risk. Technology staff also conduct annual software-license and usage reviews.

The committee approved budget transfers as presented, including funds for contracted speech-language services at Franklin, temporary paraprofessional support at Fuller, and other staffing or program needs. The discussion referenced an off-site speech provider, identified uncertainly in the transcript as Blazer Works. Members also accepted the quarterly grant report as informational and approved a donated cello valued at $1,800. No new contract award or RFP decision was recorded. Members discussed a possible capital reserve fund for future SAU building repairs, potentially involving about $100,000 annually and a 70% Keene share, but made no decision; the matter is to be raised with the full board before further consideration. The committee also reviewed the district’s budget schedule, with committee review planned for January and subsequent public and voter consideration.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Education, Construction & Infrastructure
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure, Grants & Funding
**Published:** November 04, 2026

### Sources
- [KBE Finance Committee Meeting 11.3.2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ovqo59ZPOb0) - KSD Keene school district YouTube