Thank you, Keene voters, for electing me to serve as Keene’s next mayor. It is an honor to serve my community, on which I’ve been reflecting how to thank you.
To Keene voters, thank you for reading up on the candidates, answering our door knocking, and taking our pre-election day phone calls. Prior to the election, the City Clerk estimated voter turnout to be 17%, comparable to 2021. Our campaign goal was to turnout more voters, and we reached 20% in this 2023 election. Increasing voter participation is a goal for my term in office.
To the hundreds of Kahn for Mayor supporters who hosted lawn signs, and hosted and attended house parties, thank you for showing your support. People noticed.
To the many Kahn for Mayor volunteers who helped me illustrate one of my priorities -- civic engagement -- through canvassing door-to-door, pre-election phone calls and greeting voters at polling places. Our volunteers demonstrated that civic engagement is more than words, it’s a process including open dialogue, transparency and participation in community activities. We all benefit from civic engagement and it costs so little.
To the public generally, this past Tuesday, Keene elected a new mayor and 10 city councilors. Please keep in touch, don’t go silent or let our processes become a barrier to your participation. Keep reinforcing your appreciation for people who serve in city government, sometimes year after year. And also recognize the contributions of volunteers contributing locally to governmental and nonprofit organizations that improve our quality of life.
Acts of recognition produce another benefit, community pride. Pride that we live in a wonderful part of the world, with talented people doing important and interesting things that distinguish Keene. I pledge to amplify the good work of students, volunteers, businesses, employees, educational, governmental and healthcare organizations. Pride also that here we face up to issues important to Keene residents, employers and city employees, and they become city priorities.
This was the 5th time in 7 years that I’ve been on Keene’s general election ballot. Each time I’ve been elected by large margins, for which I’m very grateful. The honor of representing my community motivates me to accomplish important things. They don’t happen overnight, however, we can work together to move a variety of things forward simultaneously.
I look forward to continue working with you and serving our City.
Thank you.
Jay Kahn
Mayor-elect