Kingston public meetings in 2023

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board will discuss the salary for a new Finance Director/Town Accountant hire at Step 7 of Grade 13. The meeting also includes routine announcements and planning for the next meeting.

• Discussion of salary for new Finance Director/Town Accountant at Step 7 of Grade 13
• Next meeting agenda planning for January 18, 2024

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will meet to sign documents, including a $6,025 invoice for MS4 support, and act on determinations of applicability for properties on Summer Street. They will also consider a request for a certificate of compliance for 68 Evergreen Street and hold a public hearing on a proposed solar energy system off Anderson Avenue, though the applicant has requested a continuance to January 10, 2023.

• Invoice from Environmental Partners Group, LLC for $6,025.00 for MS4 support
• Determination of Applicability for 85 Summer Street
• Determination of Applicability for 77 Summer Street
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for 68 Evergreen Street
• Public hearing on Notice of Intent for 3.2 mW ground mount solar system off Anderson Avenue (0 Sawmill Drive) - continuance requested

The Commission approved a Certificate of Compliance for 68 Evergreen Street and signed several administrative documents. A public hearing for a proposed solar energy system was continued to a future date.

• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 68 Evergreen Street (6-0-0)
• Approved October 25, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-2)
• Approved $6,025.00 invoice for Environmental Partners Group MS4 support
• Signed Determinations of Applicability for 77 Summer Street and 85 Summer Street
• Continued solar energy system hearing at 0 Sawmill Drive to January 10, 2024 (6-0-0)

General

The Board of Health will review reports from the health agent, public health nurse, and Healthy Kingston. The board is discussing updates to the 2024 fee schedule and permitting requirements for private haulers.

• 2024 fee schedule
• Reduction of non-profit permitting fees
• Permit issuance policy for non-compliant Private Haulers
• Betterment Loan fee
• Envirotech outstanding invoice

The Kingston Board of Health voted to reduce non-profit permitting fees to $50 for Food Service and Milk and Cream licenses. The board also accepted the November 6, 2023 meeting minutes and discussed several operational issues, including betterment loan fees, catering permits, and private hauler compliance. No other formal votes were taken.

• Reduced non-profit permitting fees to $50 for Food Service and Milk and Cream licenses (4-0)
• Accepted November 6, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing on an earth removal permit for PK Realty Trust off Route 44, consider two one-day liquor licenses for Early Bird Cafe, and vote on an amendment to hours and entertainment license for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co. They will also discuss spending ARPA funds, approve annual licenses, accept a donation, and get an update on the police chief search.

• Public hearing: Earth removal permit for PK Realty Trust off Route 44
• Two one-day liquor licenses for Early Bird Cafe (New Year's Eve and New Year's Day)
• Amendment to hours and new entertainment license for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co.
• Request to expend ARPA funds
• Police chief search update and next steps

The Board of Selectmen continued the PK Realty Trust earth removal permit public hearing to January 16, 2024, and requested the applicant provide $10,000 for a peer review. The Board approved rescinding $54,884.87 in previously approved ARPA funds and reallocating $466,000 to four new uses, including a fire dept. alerting system and a new chiller for the elementary school. The Board also approved the Blackwater Memorial Forest Conservation Restriction, two one-day liquor licenses for Early Bird Café, and an hours change and live entertainment license for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co.

• Continued PK Realty Trust earth removal hearing to Jan. 16; requested $10,000 peer review (4-0)
• Approved Blackwater Memorial Forest Conservation Restriction (4-0)
• Approved two one-day liquor licenses for Early Bird Café (4-0)
• Approved 42nd Parallel Brewing Co. Friday 2pm opening and live entertainment license, capacity under 50 (4-0)
• Rescinded $54,884.87 in prior ARPA fund approvals (4-0)
• Approved $466,000 in new ARPA fund uses (4-0)
• Approved annual license renewals as printed (4-0)
• Accepted $700 in gift card donations to Veteran's Department (4-0)

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health is meeting to review bills and minutes, hear reports from the health agent and public health nurse, and discuss a range of operational items. Key topics include the 2024 fee schedule, catering permits for Peggy's Kitchen, non-compliance penalties for private haulers, and reducing non-profit permitting fees. The board will also set its 2024 meeting schedule and discuss public health outreach efforts.

• Review bills for November 8 and December 6, 2023
• Discussion of Betterment Loan fee
• Discussion of sand removal at PK Trust
• Discussion of catering permits for Peggy's Kitchen
• Discussion of 2024 fee schedule and reducing non-profit permitting fees

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board will discuss and potentially act on personnel matters, including a requested reclassification for the Wastewater Superintendent position, a compensation study, and new wording for a promotion clause. The board will also review the 2023 annual report and FY2025 bylaw amendment requests.

• Discuss requested reclassification for Wastewater Superintendent, position rating and Compensation Study information
• Review new wording for Section 7, Compensation, (d) Promotion
• Update on Bylaw amendment requests for FY2025
• Approve Annual Report for 2023
• Requested clarification on Section 15, Miscellaneous Provisions, (h)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen is meeting to consider approving the hire of an investigator. The agenda also includes announcements, an open forum, and routine items like meeting minutes and reports. No other substantive actions are listed.

• Consideration of approval to hire an investigator

The Board of Selectmen held a brief special meeting to consider a single item: hiring an outside investigator due to the nature of a complaint, as suggested by Town Counsel. The board voted unanimously (4-0) to authorize the Human Resource Manager to engage an investigator. No other substantive decisions were made, and the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Authorized Human Resource Manager to engage an outside investigator (4-0)

General

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board is meeting to consider an appeal request from Diane Mola regarding a 30-day suspension. The board will also handle routine announcements and set the next meeting date.

• Appeal request of 30-day suspension from Diane Mola
• Next regular meeting scheduled for January 9, 2024 at 11:30 AM

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider requests for determinations regarding work at 85 and 77 Summer Street. The board will also hold public hearings for a home addition at 3 Grandview Avenue and a solar energy system off Anderson Avenue.

• Invoice for $10,334.00 to Environmental Partners Group, LLC for MS4 support
• Invoice for $13,654.02 to Wildlands Trust for Blackwater Memorial Forest endowment fee
• Request for Determination for a shipping container at 85 Summer Street
• Request for Determination for a new deck and patio at 77 Summer Street
• Notice of Intent for a 3.2 mW (DC) solar energy system off Anderson Avenue

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved several requests, including negative determinations for shipping container and deck projects on Summer Street, approved conservation restrictions for Blackwater Memorial Forest and the Offal Pits parcel, and signed the Open Space Plan. It also approved CPC applications for Calista Farm and Corriera Bog, and continued two public hearings.

• Approved Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for shipping container at 85 Summer Street (5-0)
• Approved Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for deck/patio work at 77 Summer Street with Diamond Pier footings condition (5-0)
• Approved land use and offer of parcel 82-5 for conservation restriction at Davis/Offal Pits (5-0)
• Approved and signed Blackwater Memorial Forest Conservation Restriction (5-0)
• Approved and signed Open Space Plan (5-0)
• Approved CPC application for Calista Farm Grassland Rehabilitation and signed letter of support (5-0)
• Approved CPC application for conservation purchase of Corriera Bog and signed letter of support (5-0)
• Continued public hearing for 3 Grandview Avenue NOI to January 10, 2024 (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to review and authorize December abatements, discuss state certification and end-of-year items, and review FY2025 Chapter Land applications. They will also consider bills for payment and approve meeting minutes from October and November. The board will then enter executive session to discuss exemption/abatement applications, which are not public record.

• Review and authorize December abatements
• Discussion of state certification and end-of-year items
• Review FY2025 Chapter Land applications
• Review and discuss bills for payment authorization
• Approve October 24th and November 21st meeting minutes

The Board of Assessors reviewed and signed December abatements, approved nine 621A and two 61B chapter land applications, and partially approved one 61A application based on acreage size allowance. The board also discussed state certification and end-of-year items, and postponed approval of November meeting minutes until all members are present.

• Approved nine 621A chapter land applications
• Approved two 61B chapter land applications
• Partially approved one 61A chapter land application based on acreage size allowance
• Signed December abatements
• Authorized bills
• Signed October 24, 2023 meeting minutes
• Postponed November 21, 2023 meeting minutes

General

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to approve minutes and payments, then discuss new business including a plant upgrade, an update from the superintendent, WaterWorth, staff positions and reclassification, sewer rules and regulations, land control use, and a CDM contract. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Commitment 24-19 for $159.40
• Commitment 24-20 for $77.40
• Commitment 24-17 for $340,872.10
• Discussion of Plant Upgrade
• Discussion of Staff Positions and Reclassification

The Board of Sewer Commissioners met and approved commitments 24-19, 24-20, and 24-17 unanimously. The superintendent reported the wastewater treatment plant is back on town insurance, passed a major power loss test, and received clean lab results. The board also discussed staff reclassification, CDM contract progress, and SRF loan requirements.

• Approved commitments 24-19, 24-20, 24-17 (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes for 10/10 and 10/17 (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 5:15 PM (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board will convene on December 12, 2023, at the Senior Center to review operational updates, grants, and volunteer opportunities. The meeting includes reports from staff and committees, with discussions on the Compact Grant for Age & Dementia Initiative and changes to Thursday lunches starting in January 2024.

• November cafe update from Mary Beth
• Compact Grant - Age & Dementia Initiative update from Mary Beth
• Changes to Thursday lunches starting in January 2024
• Outreach Coordinator search update from Mary Beth
• Christmas/Holiday lunch updates

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board met on December 12, 2023, and approved a new board email address ([email protected]) with Chairman Caty Starr to monitor it. The board also accepted the Secretary's report and discussed updates on the Café, including 377 meals served in November, a monthly police visit to discuss scams, and a change to the outreach job description that cannot be filled until July 1. No substantive policy decisions were made beyond these administrative approvals.

• Approved Secretary's report (all in favor)
• Approved new board email address [email protected], with Chairman Caty Starr to monitor (all in favor)
• Discussed outreach job description change, hiring delayed until July 1

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to review and decide on exemption applications. The meeting will also include a call to order in executive session and approval of minutes from prior meetings.

• Review and decision on exemption applications

The Kingston Board of Assessors met in executive session and approved five property tax exemption applications: one under Chapter 37a, one under Chapter 41C, and three under Chapter 22a. The board also signed the October 24, 2023 meeting minutes, while the November 21, 2023 minutes were postponed until all attending members are present. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved one 37a exemption application
• Approved one 41C exemption application
• Approved three 22a exemption applications
• Signed October 24, 2023 meeting minutes
• Postponed November 21, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve bills and minutes, hear engineering updates on the Grassy Hole/I-86 Water Treatment Plant and Main Street Water Main Project, and receive a departmental update. They will vote on allocating municipal costs for FY25 (up about $6K due to insurance) and on the amount to lien for water bills (minimum $75). They will also discuss opt-out letters for PFAS class action lawsuits and confirm the 2024 meeting schedule.

• Vote on FY25 municipal cost allocation, increased ~$6K due to insurance
• Vote on water bill lien amount, minimum $75
• Engineering update: Grassy Hole/I-86 Water Treatment Plant hypo tank repair
• Engineering update: Main Street Water Main Project
• Opt-out letters for Dupont and 3M PFAS class action lawsuits mailed Dec 1 and Dec 6

The Board unanimously voted to draft a letter to the Board of Selectmen requesting a postponement of any vote on a proposed earth removal permit (1.1 million cubic yards) to allow the water department's engineer time to review. The Board also approved FY25 allocated municipal costs of $428,148 and lowered the water bill lien threshold to $75 for FY23 bills. Minutes from three prior meetings were approved, and the hypo tank repair project at the water treatment plant was reported as finished.

• Approved FY25 allocated municipal costs of $428,148 (3-0)
• Lowered water bill lien threshold to $75 for FY23 bills (3-0)
• Approved minutes of Nov 15, Nov 28, and Dec 1, 2023 (various votes)
• Voted to draft letter to Selectmen to postpone earth removal vote (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a petition from Priolo Wapping Realty, LLC. The petitioner is requesting a Comprehensive Permit to build an age-restricted residential development.

• Public hearing for 60-unit age-restricted residential development at 113 & 117 Wapping Road (Map 52 Lot 9 and Map 42 Lot 8)

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals voted 6-0 to continue the public hearing for a proposed 60-unit age-restricted comprehensive permit project at 113 & 117 Wapping Road to February 7, 2024. The board discussed traffic, septic, water supply, and open space concerns, and requested additional information including a peer review, letters from fire/police/conservation, and details on affordable housing. No final decision was made.

• Continued 113 & 117 Wapping Road hearing to Feb. 7, 2024 (6-0)
• Approved Nov. 1, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Approved Nov. 15, 2023 minutes (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:47 PM (6-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will review a safety audit for Landing Road and provide an update on the search for a new Police Chief. The board is also considering changes to inspectional service fees and the declaration of town property as surplus.

• Review of Safety Audit Report for Landing Road
• Review of Inspectional Service Fees
• Request to Declare Town Property as Surplus
• Review of RFP for Legal Services
• Annual Appointment of Special Police Officers and Matrons

The Board of Selectmen approved updated inspectional service fees and increased inspector compensation to $50 per inspection, effective January 1, 2024. They also accepted the Landing Road Safety Audit Report, declared surplus town floats, approved an RFP for legal services, and made annual police appointments.

• Approved updated inspectional service fees and $50 per inspection rate (4-0)
• Accepted Landing Road Safety Audit Report from Old Colony Planning Council (4-0)
• Declared 10 town dock floats as surplus and approved disposal (4-0)
• Approved RFP for legal services, amended with 2021 date update (3-1)
• Accepted $900 donation from Town and Country Estates to Fire Department (4-0)
• Appointed two Police Matrons for 2024 (4-0)
• Appointed three Special Police Officers for 2024 (4-0)
• Approved November 21, 2023 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to handle routine business and, under new business, discuss and reconsider a vote taken on 11/28/23 regarding action for PFAS class action litigation with 3M and DuPont. The rest of the agenda is standard procedural items such as bill schedules, minutes, and updates.

• Reconsider vote of 11/28/23 on PFAS class action litigation with 3M and DuPont
• Approval of department bill schedules
• Water superintendent departmental update
• Meeting minutes approval

The Board of Water Commissioners voted unanimously to reconsider its November 28, 2023 decision and then voted to opt out of both the DuPont and 3M class action lawsuits related to PFAS. The initial motion to reconsider passed 3-0, and the subsequent motion to opt out also passed 3-0. No other substantive decisions were made during the meeting.

• Reconsidered prior vote on PFAS litigation (3-0)
• Opted out of DuPont and 3M class action lawsuits (3-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, hear engineering updates on the Grassy Hole Water Treatment Plant and Main Street Water Main Project, and review the FY25 budget before submission. The board will also discuss the resignation of Foreman Eric Hillstrom, maintenance updates, and deadlines to opt out of the Dupont and 3M class action lawsuits.

• Vote to approve minutes of October 30 and November 15, 2023
• Engineering update on Grassy Hole Water Treatment Plant hypo tank area repairs
• Main Street Water Main Project update
• FY25 Budget & Cap Planning review before final submission to Town Administrator
• Deadlines to opt out of Dupont & 3M class action lawsuits by early December 2023

The Board voted unanimously (2-0) not to opt out of the DuPont and 3M class action lawsuits regarding PFAS, deciding to remain involved. They also approved the minutes from November 1, 2023, and tabled the November 15 minutes. The superintendent reported the foreman's resignation and discussed the FY25 budget, including a $300,000 water tank painting proposal.

• Approved minutes of November 1, 2023 (2-0)
• Tabled minutes of November 15, 2023
• Voted not to opt out of DuPont class action lawsuit (2-0)
• Voted not to opt out of 3M class action lawsuit (2-0)

Planning

The Planning Board will vote on whether to release consulting, inspection, and escrow fees for various completed, withdrawn, or unbuilt projects. The board will also discuss designating a representative for the Community Preservation Committee.

• Vote to release consulting/inspection fees for projects including Lowe's, Starbucks, and 192 Summer Street O'Reilly Auto Parts
• Vote to release escrow accounts for Stonemeadow Farms and Tree Farm Estates
• Discussion to designate a Planning Board Representative for the Community Preservation Committee (CPC)

The Kingston Planning Board voted unanimously to release escrow and performance guarantee funds for several completed or withdrawn projects, including Stone Meadow Farms and Tree Farm Estates, and accepted as-built plans for Tree Farm Estates. The board also nominated Alexander Graham to the Community Preservation Committee and approved a letter to the Building Inspector regarding Dunkin Donuts permit conditions.

• Released all escrow funds listed under Item 1 plus accrued interest (4-0)
• Released Stone Meadow Farms escrow funds plus interest (4-0)
• Accepted Tree Farm Estates as-built plans (4-0)
• Released Tree Farm Estates escrow funds plus interest (4-0)
• Nominated Alexander Graham to Community Preservation Committee (3-0-1, Graham abstained)
• Approved letter to Building Inspector Jason Silva to enforce Dunkin Donuts permit conditions (4-0)
• Approved minutes for June 12, August 21, August 30, September 11, and October 16 meetings (3-0-1 each)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging is meeting to discuss the board's presence at a Board of Selectmen meeting to answer questions. The remainder of the agenda consists of procedural items.

• Discussion regarding Council on Aging Board attendance at Board of Selectmen Meeting

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will hold public hearings on property tax classification and a dangerous dog, consider a one-day liquor license for Weir's Tree Farm, and discuss the police chief search. They will also make appointments and accept a donation.

• Public Hearing for Classification of Property for Tax Purposes
• 7:00 P.M. Dangerous Dog Hearing
• Request for One Day Liquor License - Weir's Tree Farm for November 24th and 25th
• Police Chief Search - Update and Next Steps
• Appointment of Substitute Circulation Assistant and Part Time Administrative Assistant for Treasurer/Collector's Office

The Board of Selectmen established the FY2024 tax levy percentages and residential factor. The Board also ruled a specific dog a nuisance, ordering remedial actions including muzzling and training. Additionally, the Board approved a one-day liquor license and several personnel appointments.

• Set FY2024 Residential Factor at 1.0 and CIP shift at 1.0 (5-0-0)
• Designated dog 'Wren' as a nuisance dog (4-1-0)
• Ordered dog owner to provide muzzling, training, and a roofed dog run (4-1-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Brewery 44 at Weir Family Christmas Tree Farm (5-0-0)
• Appointed Donna Keene as Substitute Circulation Librarian (5-0-0)
• Appointed Angela Kerstein as Administrative Assistant for Collector/Treasurer's Office (5-0-0)
• Appointed Reverend Emily Bruce to the Kingston 300th Committee (5-0-0)
• Accepted $4,405 donation from Arbor Hills Neighborhood Association to Veteran’s Donation Fund (5-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review and decide on exemption applications and discuss Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases. The agenda also includes approving minutes from the October 24, 2023 executive session.

• Review and decision on exemption applications
• Discussion of Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases
• Approval of October 24, 2023 executive session minutes

The Board of Assessors met in executive session and approved 14 FY2024 exemption applications. Meeting minutes were postponed due to absent members, and an update on pending ATB cases was provided. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 14 FY2024 exemption applications
• Postponed meeting minutes until attending members are present

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission will meet to review plant upgrades, hear an update from the superintendent, discuss the FY25 budget, and consider new wastewater positions. The meeting also includes reviews of sewer rules and regulations, as well as updates on specific projects like Waterworth and Royson Drive.

• FY25 Budget discussion
• Plant Upgrade proposal
• New Wastewater Positions consideration
• Sewer Rules and Regulations review
• Waterworth project update

The Board of Sewer Commissioners met and approved commitments for properties 24-19 and 20 Marion. Superintendent Walsh reported progress on the wastewater plant, with substantial completion expected in November pending testing. The board discussed staff reclassification, a draft contract from CDM, and a potential SRF loan.

• Approved commitments for 24-19 and 20 Marion (unanimous)
• Discussed staff reclassification for Wastewater Administrative Assistant and Treatment Plant positions
• Reviewed draft contract from CDM; final expected soon
• Deferred approval of minutes from 10/10 and 10/17 to next meeting

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will convene on November 21, 2023, at 5:00 PM in Town House Room 101 and via Zoom to discuss bills for payment, November abatements, FY2024 budget items, FY2025 Chapter Land applications, and classification hearing recommendations. The meeting will include a vote on abatements and a non-public executive session to discuss exemption/abatement applications.

• Review and authorize November abatements
• Discuss FY2024 budget items
• Review FY2025 Chapter Land applications
• Review and vote on classification hearing recommendations
• Enter executive session to discuss exemption/abatement applications (non-public) per MGL Chapter 59 Section 60

The Board of Assessors voted to recommend that the Board of Selectmen not adopt the open space discount, residential exemption, or small commercial exemption. The board also recommended against splitting the tax rate. Additionally, the board approved 13 chapter land applications.

• Authorized reviewed bills
• Approved nine 61A chapter land applications
• Approved four 61B chapter land applications
• Recommended against adopting open space discount (2-0-0)
• Recommended against adopting residential exemption (2-0-0)
• Recommended against adopting small commercial exemption (2-0-0)
• Recommended against splitting the tax rate (2-0-0)
• Postponed meeting minutes

Wage & Personnel

The Board will review and approve the FY2024 Bylaw incorporating changes from the Fall Town Meeting. Members will also discuss the 2023 Annual Report and the timeline for the Annual Town Meeting.

• Review and approval of FY2024 Bylaw
• Reclassification request for the position of Wastewater Superintendent
• Proposed changes to Bylaw Sections 7(d), 7(g), 11(f) and 15(a) for FY2025
• Discussion of the Board's 2023 Annual Report

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board unanimously approved the FY2024 Bylaw as drafted, incorporating changes from Fall Town Meeting. The Board also voted to move the Bylaw amendment request deadline to December 22, 2023, due to the new Annual Town Meeting date of May 4, 2024. A reclassification request for the Wastewater Superintendent was discussed but not decided, with further review planned. The Board approved the October 16, 2023 meeting minutes, including releasing the executive session minutes.

• Approved FY2024 Bylaw as written (unanimous)
• Amended Bylaw amendment request deadline to December 22, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved October 16, 2023 open and executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Released executive session minutes for October 16, 2023 (unanimous)

Planning

The Planning Board will receive a general update from Town Planner Valerie Massard. The board will also introduce VHB of Watertown, MA, a consultant funded by an MHP TA-Grant.

• Introduction of grant-funded consultant VHB of Watertown, MA
• Review and update by Town Planner Valerie Massard
• Approval of October 2, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will convene to approve the minutes from the October 16, 2023 meeting and receive updates on departmental projects, including water main and treatment plant work. The board will also discuss the FY25 budget, which is due to the Town Administrator by November 28, 2023.

• Vote to approve minutes of October 16, 2023
• FY25 Budget discussion (due November 28, 2023)
• Main Street Water Main Project update
• Closeout of SRF Grassy Hole/I-86 Water Treatment Plant (confirmation from MassDEP)
• Elm Street Water Dept Office roof replacement (one quote received, another pending)

The Board of Water Commissioners unanimously approved a one-year renewal of the on-call engineering contract with Resilient CE and the FY25 budget as prepared by the Superintendent. They also discussed a water moratorium affecting a property owner at 48 Howland's Lane, but declined to make an exception. The board received updates on the Grassy Hole treatment plant closeout, I-86 well cleaning, and the Main Street water main project.

• Approved minutes of October 16, 2023 (2-0)
• Approved one-year renewal of on-call engineering contract with Resilient CE (2-0)
• Approved FY25 budget as prepared by Superintendent (2-0)
• Denied exception to water moratorium for 48 Howland's Lane development
• Tabled purchase of foreman's utility truck for one year

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a request to modify an existing special permit for a dog daycare facility at 114R Main St. Two other public hearings are scheduled but were continued from earlier meetings. The board will also approve meeting minutes.

• Modification to special permit #22-02 for dog daycare at 114R Main St
• Special permit sought for roof removal and second-floor addition on nonconforming lot at 3 Grandview Avenue
• Modification to 1997 special permit for golf course maintenance building at Indian Pond Country Club

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved modifications to special permit #22-02 for Off the Hook Dog Day Care at 114R Main St., allowing dog training, vaccine clinics, grooming, and adoption events. The board continued the hearing for 3 Grandview Avenue to January 17, 2024, and accepted the withdrawal of a special permit modification request for 60 Country Club Way. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved modifications to special permit #22-02 for Off the Hook Dog Day Care at 114R Main St., allowing dog training, vaccine clinics, grooming, and adoption events (5-0)
• Continued hearing for 3 Grandview Avenue (Susan Larson) to January 17, 2024, at 7:05 PM (5-0)
• Continued 114R Main Street for remaining requests to January 17, 2024, at 7:10 PM (5-0)
• Accepted withdrawal of special permit modification request for 60 Country Club Way (Indian Pond Country Club) (5-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging is meeting to discuss updates regarding the cafe and a request to attend a Board of Selectmen meeting on November 21. The board will also review the accreditation process and volunteer recruitment.

• Discussion of cafe updates and a suggestion for the Friends group to purchase dishes and silverware
• Request to attend Board of Selectmen meeting on 11/21 regarding the cafe
• Review of the accreditation process and Advisory Board involvement
• Discussion on volunteer recruitment and recognition
• Updates on by-laws and the bocci court

The Advisory Board approved updated by-laws and selected a name for the center's café. Members established a monthly public meeting schedule and appointed liaisons to the Friends of COA group.

• Approved updated By-Laws
• Named the café 'Café Evergreen'
• Established public office hours from 10:30-11:00am on the 2nd Tuesday of each month
• Appointed Mary Hayes and Kathy Studley as liaisons to Friends of COA
• Accepted Secretary's Report

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider permit requests for residential construction at 85 Brookdale Street and 3 Grandview Avenue. The board will also review several payments for environmental consulting and restoration projects.

• Public hearing for a second-floor addition at 3 Grandview Avenue
• Request for Determination of Applicability for a retaining wall and waterline at 85 Brookdale Street
• $6,516 bill from Environmental Partners Group for September 2023 MS4 support
• $4,978.75 bill from Beals & Thomas for Sampsons Brook Headwaters Restoration Project
• $2,900 bill from Roots Tree Consulting for a bird habitat plan at Camp Nekon

The Commission approved a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for work at 85 Brookdale Street. A public hearing for a home addition at 3 Grandview Avenue was continued, and several project documents and bills were signed.

• Issued Negative 3 DOA for retaining wall, tree clearing, and waterline at 85 Brookdale Street (6-0-0)
• Approved September 13, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-1)
• Continued 3 Grandview Avenue public hearing until December 13, 2023 (6-0-0)
• Approved $2,900 bill for Roots Tree Consulting bird habitat plan
• Approved $6,516 bill for Environmental Partners Group MS4 support
• Approved $4,978.75 bill for Beals & Thomas Sampsons Brook project
• Signed Orders of Conditions for Blackwater Memorial Forest Ecological Restoration Project
• Signed Certificate of Compliance for 37 East Avenue

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss several operational and financial matters, including a plant upgrade, an update from the superintendent, Eversource net metering credits, the FY24 budget, job reclassification, overtime, and sewer rules and regulations. The agenda also includes a meeting with CDM and a commitment item (24-18).

• Plant Upgrade
• Eversource Net Metering Credits
• FY24 Budget
• Job Reclassification
• Sewer Rules and Regulations

The Board of Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved moving forward with the Waterworth contract. Superintendent Walsh reported progress on the HVAC actuator replacement, fire alarm testing, and plant completion, with substantial completion expected in November pending 30-day testing. The board also approved overtime for Jeanne Dunn and discussed staff reclassification, but took no final action on that item.

• Approved Waterworth contract (unanimous)
• Approved overtime for Jeanne Dunn
• Discussed staff reclassification for Wastewater Administrative Assistant and Treatment Plant positions (no vote)
• Deferred transfer disposal site request until 30-day testing completed
• Noted legal counsel advised petition for leaching fields is not valid

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to recess into executive session for strategy and contract negotiations with nonunion personnel, specifically the Fire Chief and Assistant Town Administrator. The board will also consider approving or releasing executive session minutes. No other public business is on the agenda.

• Executive session for negotiations with Fire Chief
• Executive session for negotiations with Assistant Town Administrator
• Approve and/or release executive session meeting minutes

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing on a Verizon/Eversource pole relocation, consider a new common victualler license, and discuss several police and fire items, including a body-worn camera grant, ambulance fee increases, and delaying firefighter hires. They will also get updates on the police chief search and other administrative matters.

• Public hearing on Verizon and Eversource pole relocation on Pembroke Street
• Approval of new common victualler license at 101 Kingston Collection Way
• Request to accept Body Worn Camera Grant and implement body cameras for all sworn police officers
• Request to increase ambulance fees and establish fees for energy system inspections
• Discussion on delaying hiring of four firefighters approved at Annual Town Meeting

The Board of Selectmen authorized the purchase of police body-worn cameras using a state grant and ARPA funds. The Board also approved increases to ambulance transport fees and established new solar energy system inspection fees. Additionally, the Board directed the Town Administrator to create an RFP for legal counsel.

• Approved acquisition of police body cameras using $50,000 grant and $93,000 in ARPA funds (5-0-0)
• Increased Basic Life Support fee to $1,850 and mileage to $50 per mile effective Dec 1, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved new solar energy system and hot work inspection fees effective Dec 1, 2023 (5-0-0)
• Approved relocation of one utility pole on Pembroke Street (5-0-0)
• Approved common victualler license for Perry-Lima Cafe contingent on Board of Health approval (5-0-0)
• Denied request to increase razor clam licenses from 11 to 12 (4-1-0)
• Directed Town Administrator to create an RFP for legal counsel (4-1-0)
• Accepted donations totaling $1,723 for Veteran's Dept, Police Dept, and Council on Aging (5-0-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider a variance request for a property on Phillips Road. The board will also review bills from September and October 2023 and discuss updates to the Policy and Procedure Manual.

• Variance request for 18 Lot Phillips Road
• Review of bills from September 29, October 13, 20 and 26, and November 2, 2023
• Policy and Procedure Manual update discussion
• Discussion on future meeting time and location

The Board of Health approved a variance for a property on Phillips Road to allow a reduced separation for a soil absorption system. The board also accepted the minutes from the October 2, 2023 meeting.

• Approved variance for 18 Lot Phillips Road to reduce soil absorption system separation from 5 feet to 4 feet (5-0-0)
• Accepted October 2, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen posted a notice for a November 2, 2023 meeting held via Zoom. The agenda includes procedural items such as a call to order, announcements, and a request for a one-day liquor license for a hockey game at The Bog. The meeting may recess into an executive session.

• One-day liquor license request for hockey game at The Bog on November 4th

The Kingston Board of Selectmen approved a one-day liquor license for Stellwagen Beer Co. for the Breakers Coaches Charity Game at the Bog, 188 Summer Street, on November 4, 2023, from 4pm-10pm. The vote was unanimous (3-0). The board then adjourned to executive session to discuss a personnel matter, with no further open-session actions.

• Approved one-day liquor license for Stellwagen Beer Co. for Breakers Coaches Charity Game (3-0)
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel discussion (3-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting via Zoom to enter an executive session. The session is designated to discuss the reputation, character, physical condition, mental health, discipline, dismissal, or complaints regarding the Town Administrator.

• Executive session regarding Town Administrator

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes and bills, hear presentations on property developments, and vote on updates to Rules & Regulations. The board will also receive updates on water infrastructure projects and the FY24 budget timeline.

• Appointments: Lloyd Geisinger (Thorndike Development) re: Sacred Heart Property; Sullivan & Comerford for AM LLC (48 Howland's Lane); Kristen Berger (Resilient CE)
• Vote to approve recommendations and updates in Rules & Regulations
• Updates on Elm Street Water Tank Maintenance, Grassy Hole WTP, I-86 Well Cleaning, Main Street Water Main projects
• FY24 budget: Capital Improvement Requests due November 10, 2023
• Letter to Comprehensive Environmental Inc. requesting final invoices for Grassy Hole WTP

The Board unanimously approved updates to its Rules and Regulations and adopted a new Charges and Fee Schedule, including fees for developer water usage during construction. The October 16, 2023 meeting minutes were tabled until November 13, 2023. The Board also discussed, but took no formal action on, Thorndike Development's proposed Sacred Heart property project, including a request for direct communication with the water department engineer.

• Approved updates to Rules and Regulations (3-0)
• Adopted Charges and Fee Schedule, added to Rules and Regulations (3-0)
• Tabled October 16, 2023 meeting minutes until November 13, 2023
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold two public hearings. One is a continued hearing on a request to modify a 1997 special permit to relocate a golf course maintenance building at Indian Pond Country Club. The other is a new hearing on a Comprehensive Permit (Chapter 40B) application from Cushman Farms, LLC to build 162 rental housing units on about 11 acres off Marion and Cushman Drives. The board will also approve meeting minutes.

• Public hearing: Cushman Farms, LLC requests Comprehensive Permit under MGL Chapter 40B for 162 rental units in three apartment buildings on ~11 acres off Marion Drive and Cushman Drive (Map 66 Lots 29, 32, 33, 35, 37, 38, 40, 41, 42, 47; Map 75 Lots 5, 7)
• Continued hearing: Fred Tonsberg, 60 Country Club Way, seeks modification to 1997 special permit (case #888) to relocate golf course maintenance building at Indian Pond Country Club
• Site plan for maintenance building by Webby Engineering Associates, Inc. dated 7/11/2023
• Comprehensive Permit plans by Coneco Engineers & Scientists dated October 2, 2023
• Meeting minutes to be approved

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals continued a public hearing for a proposed 162-unit rental housing development at 33 Cushman Drive to January 17, 2024, due to an incomplete application and the need for more information. The board also continued a request to modify a 1997 special permit for a golf course maintenance building at 60 Country Club Way to November 15, 2023. No final decisions were made on either application.

• Continued 33 Cushman Drive comprehensive permit hearing to Jan. 17, 2024 (4-0)
• Continued 60 Country Club Way special permit modification to Nov. 15, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from Oct. 18, 2023 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:05 PM (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will hold public hearings on two wetland-related projects, decide on several determinations and a certificate of compliance, and review an enforcement matter involving improper disposal of dog waste into the Jones River. The agenda also includes signing small bills for trail maintenance and lumber, and reviewing a complaint filed by Frederick Grover.

• Public hearing: 3 Grandview Avenue second-floor addition within wetland resource areas
• Public hearing: Blackwater Memorial Forest wetland restoration project
• RDA for Delano Avenue access pathway work
• RDA for 85 Summer Street shipping container placement
• Enforcement: Frederick Grover - improper disposal of dog waste and plastic into the Jones River

The Commission issued a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for the Delano Avenue access pathway improvements, allowing the project to proceed. It also continued the hearing for the 85 Summer Street shipping container to allow a site visit, issued a Certificate of Compliance for 37 East Avenue, and authorized Town Counsel to respond to an Open Meeting Law complaint. The enforcement matter regarding Frederick Grover was concluded with a 3-1 vote, and the Blackwater Memorial Forest restoration project was approved.

• Issued Negative 3 DOA for Delano Avenue access pathway improvements (4-0)
• Continued 85 Summer Street shipping container RDA to Nov 22 for site visit (4-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 37 East Avenue (4-0)
• Authorized Town Counsel to respond to Open Meeting Law complaint (4-0)
• Concluded enforcement matter against Frederick Grover (3-1)
• Approved minutes for Sept 13, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued 3 Grandview Ave NOI hearing to Nov 8 (4-0)
• Approved Blackwater Memorial Forest restoration project with Order of Conditions (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to authorize payments, commitments, and tax abatements for October. The board will also discuss state certification directives and a property photo project.

• Review and authorization of October abatements
• Review of FY2025 Chapter Land applications
• Permission to submit LA4 & LA13 for Fiscal year 2023
• Status update on interim adjustment for state certification and property photo project
• Review and authorization of October commitments

The Board of Assessors reviewed and authorized bills, signed September minutes, approved motor vehicle and boat commitments, and authorized October abatements. They also approved permission to submit fiscal year documents and reviewed progress on certification directives.

• Bills reviewed and authorized
• September 26, 2023 minutes reviewed and signed
• Motor vehicle and boat commitments reviewed and signed
• October abatements reviewed and authorized
• Permission to submit fiscal year documents approved
• Chapter land reviewed and approved

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and decide on exemption applications. The board will also discuss cases involving the Appellate Tax Board (ATB).

• Review and decision on exemption applications
• Discussion of Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases

The Board of Assessors met in executive session and approved 21 FY2024 exemption applications. They also reviewed and signed the September 26, 2023 executive session minutes and received an update on pending ATB cases. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved 21 FY2024 exemption applications
• Reviewed and signed September 26, 2023 executive session minutes

Conservation Commission

The agenda indicates that the Conservation Commission will attend Town Meeting. No other business items are listed for this meeting.

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to enter executive sessions. The discussions will cover collective bargaining, litigation, and personnel matters regarding the Town Administrator.

• Executive session regarding collective bargaining or litigation strategy
• Executive session regarding the Town Administrator

General

The Finance Committee will attend a Special Town Meeting in person at Kingston Intermediate School. The meeting is open to the public and offers remote participation, though technical issues may cancel it.

General

The Kingston Sewer Commission is holding a meeting to attend the Special Town Meeting on October 24, 2023. The agenda contains no other business items; it is solely to attend the Special Town Meeting.

• Attendance at Special Town Meeting on 10/24/23

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss articles on the Special Town Meeting Warrant. The board will then recess to attend the Town Meeting.

• Discussion of Articles on Special Town Meeting Warrant
• Appointment of CDL Driver/Laborer with Streets, Trees and Parks

The Board of Selectmen held a brief meeting on October 24, 2023, and made no substantive decisions. The only action taken was a unanimous 5-0 vote to recess to Town Meeting and any continued sessions. An appointment of a CDL driver/laborer was discussed but not moved, and there was no discussion on special Town Meeting warrant articles.

• Voted 5-0 to recess to Town Meeting and any continued sessions

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel board will attend Fall Town Meeting sessions on October 24, 2023, at 7:00 PM. No specific decisions or discussions are listed on the agenda; the meeting is procedural.

The Wage and Personnel Board did not hold a meeting at the Fall Town Meeting on October 24, 2023. The minutes record no substantive decisions or actions taken by the board.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold two public hearings on October 18, 2023, at 7:00 PM in Room 200, Town Hall, 26 Evergreen Street. Members will review and likely vote on minutes from the previous meeting and then take up two special-permit applications for residential renovations on nonconforming lots and structures.

• Special permit for Susan Larson, 3 Grandview Avenue, to remove roof and add second floor on nonconforming lot (Map 38 Lot 93)
• Special permit for Paul Scott, Jr., 25 Cole Street, to add 12’×23’ rear addition on preexisting nonconforming lot (Map 48 Lot 50)

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for a 12'x23' rear addition at 25 Cole Street, increasing the home from one to two bedrooms, with a 6-0 vote. The board continued the hearing for 3 Grandview Avenue to November 15, 2023, pending Conservation Commission review and a fire department letter regarding street parking.

• Approved special permit for 25 Cole St. addition (6-0)
• Continued 3 Grandview Ave. hearing to Nov. 15, 2023 (6-0)
• Approved minutes of 8/2/2023 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of 9/20/2023 (4-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss an update from the Superintendent, a Town Meeting sewer article, staff positions and reclassification, and a transfer disposal site. The agenda lists these items as new business, with no decisions specified.

• Update from Superintendent
• Town Meeting Sewer Article
• Staff Positions and Reclassification
• Transfer Disposal Site

The Board of Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved moving forward with the Waterworth contract. Superintendent Walsh reported progress on the HVAC and fire alarm systems, with substantial completion expected in November pending testing. The board also discussed staff reclassification, a transfer disposal site, and a CDM contract, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved Waterworth contract (unanimous)
• Approved overtime for Jeanne (unanimous)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will convene to approve the minutes from the September 25, 2023 meeting and receive updates on departmental projects, including the Water Treatment Plant Project and Main Street Water Main work. The meeting will also include discussions on new business, such as the 3M Class Action Lawsuit opt-out deadline, and correspondence regarding new water rates and seasonal property fees.

• Vote to approve minutes of September 25, 2023
• Water Treatment Plant Project - Grassy Hole-I/86
• Main Street Water Main updates
• New water rates posted on website as of September 28, 2023
• Seasonal property turn/turn-off fee of $35.00 beginning November 1, 2023

The Board voted 2-0-1 to support Article 15, the wastewater leeching fields project, at the upcoming Special Town Meeting. The project, estimated at $13 million, aims to complete the wastewater treatment plant and address capacity issues. The Board also approved $14,900 for unexpected repairs at the I-86 well and moved forward on a Water Management Act grant submission.

• Supported Article 15, wastewater leeching fields project (2-0-1)
• Approved $14,900 for I-86 well repairs (3-0)
• Moved to submit Water Management Act grant proposal (3-0)
• Approved minutes of September 25, 2023 (2-0-1)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will hold a procedural meeting to receive a human resources update, review minutes from prior meetings, and discuss preparations for the upcoming fall town meeting. No substantive decisions are listed on the agenda.

The Board approved the open session meeting minutes from August 21 and September 18, 2023. Members reviewed human resources staffing updates and prepared a presentation for the Fall Town Meeting. The board recessed to executive session to review executive session minutes.

• Approved August 21, 2023 open session meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 18, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to recess to Executive Session at 6:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will meet to hold a public hearing on a zoning article for the Special Town Meeting that would add the Affordable Housing Trust to the site plan review distribution list for residential plans. The board will also receive updates on previously approved solar arrays on Ring Road and discuss MBTA zoning and OCPC Corridor Study updates. The meeting includes appointments, review of minutes, and setting future meeting dates.

• Public Hearing: Zoning Article 21 to add Affordable Housing Trust to site plan review distribution list (residential plans only)
• Update on solar arrays at 126 Ring Rd (Map 70 Lot 4-4) and 131-137 Ring Rd (Map 69 Lot 1)
• Discussion of MBTA zoning and OCPC Corridor Study updates
• Review/approve minutes from June 12, August 21, August 30, and September 11, 2023 meetings
• Appointment of new Planning Board member Alexander Graham

The Kingston Planning Board voted 3-0 to support Special Town Meeting Article 15, which seeks funding for a sewer expansion project to construct a leaching field on the Davis property. The board also held a public hearing on Article 21, which would add the Affordable Housing Trust to the site plan review distribution list for residential plans; the board discussed the article but did not vote on it. Updates were provided on solar array projects at 126 and 131-137 Ring Rd, and the board noted that the Dunkin Donuts at 121 Main Street has not completed required conditions.

• Supported Special Town Meeting Article 15 for sewer expansion (3-0)
• Held public hearing on Article 21 to add Affordable Housing Trust to site plan review distribution list (no vote)
• Received update on solar array projects at 126 and 131-137 Ring Rd
• Noted Dunkin Donuts at 121 Main Street has not completed permit conditions

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will meet to hear a presentation on a sewer article for Fall Town Meeting, sign several bills, and take action on wetland-related requests. They will also address enforcement cases and hold public hearings on ecological restoration and a wetland buffer zone project.

• Presentation by Sewer Commission on Fall Town Meeting Sewer Article
• Sign $5,075 bill to Environmental Partners Group for MS4 support
• Action on 30 Evergreen Street bocce court in wetland buffer zone
• Public hearing: Blackwater Memorial Forest wetland restoration project
• Public hearing: 11 Kingston Street increase in impervious coverage

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent for 11 Kingston Street, allowing increased impervious coverage within the 100-foot wetland buffer, contingent on a variance request and a condition of no net increase in impervious surface. The Commission also denied an ORAD extension for 48 Howlands Lane, accepted the withdrawal of a bocce court application at the Senior Center, and continued enforcement discussions regarding Frederick Grover. The sewer article vote was tabled without formal action.

• Approved 11 Kingston St NOI with variance requirement and no net impervious increase condition (6-0)
• Denied ORAD extension request for 48 Howlands Lane (6-1)
• Accepted withdrawal of bocce court RDA at 30 Evergreen St without prejudice (6-0)
• Continued monitoring of 110 Country Club Way property (7-0)
• Continued Frederick Grover enforcement discussion, sharing all documentation including photos (4-3)
• Continued Blackwater Memorial Forest NOI hearing to Oct 25 (7-0)
• Tabled sewer article discussion without formal vote
• Signed bills totaling $14,040.41 for MS4 support and Sampsons Brook project

Wastewater/Sewer

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved an additional 660 gallons per day of sewer capacity for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St, correcting a prior quote of 1,900 gallons. They also approved minutes for several meetings and a commitment for 65-69 Summer St. Discussions covered plant upgrades, DEP approval for transfer station leaching fields, and staff position changes.

• Approved meeting minutes for 7/18 and 8/1 (2-0-1)
• Approved meeting minutes for 8/15, 9/19, 10/3 (unanimous)
• Approved Commitment 24-14 for 65-69 Summer St (unanimous)
• Approved 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St for additional 660 gallons/day sewer capacity (unanimous)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to discuss operational updates and upcoming events. The board is reviewing the use of the KCOA by outside groups and planning for seasonal luncheons.

• Naming the Cafe
• Outside groups use of the KCOA
• Public Safety luncheon at Haddad's
• Thanksgiving Luncheon planning
• Office hours for public to meet with Advisory Board

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board agreed to hold monthly office hours before regular meetings and discussed several upcoming events, including a Thanksgiving lunch for 125. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy; the board accepted the secretary's report and tabled discussions on a new HIPAA form and social media form.

• Approved secretary's report (all in favor)
• Agreed to hold monthly office hours on second Tuesday, 10:30-11:00am, in the Library
• Kathy Studley and Mary Hayes offered to attend Friends of COA board meetings
• Tabled discussion on new HIPAA form to next meeting
• Tabled discussion on social media form to next meeting
• Adjourned meeting at 12:47pm (all in favor)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to recess into executive session for two purposes: discussing the reputation, character, or discipline of a public officer or employee (Town Administrator), and discussing collective bargaining or litigation strategy (Munford and O'Donnell). The board will then return to open session and adjourn. No other business is listed.

• Executive session to discuss personnel matter regarding the Town Administrator
• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy regarding Munford and O'Donnell

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will conduct a public hearing for a new all alcohol license and consider a one-day liquor license. The board is also discussing the FY25 budget and a grant to study the regionalization of school departments.

• Public Hearing for New All Alcohol License for Paisano's Restaurant
• Approval of One Day Liquor License - Kingston Collection
• Authorization to apply for Community Compact Grant to study regionalization of Kingston and Silver Lake School Departments
• FY25 Budget Discussion
• Joint meeting with Planning Board to interview a candidate for an open position

The Board of Selectmen appointed Alexander Graham to the Planning Board until the 2024 Annual Town Election, filling a vacancy left by Joanne Cullen's resignation. The board also approved an all-alcohol and common victualler license for Paisano's Restaurant at 6 Pembroke Street, contingent on final Board of Health approval. Additionally, they approved a one-day beer and wine license for a Sip and Stroll event at Kingston Collection, supported a Community Compact Grant application to study regionalizing the school district, and made several appointments including Mary Harriman to the Council on Aging and new hires for Substitute Librarian and Water Department Repair Person.

• Appointed Alexander Graham to Planning Board until 2024 Annual Town Election (9-0-0)
• Approved all-alcohol and common victualler license for Paisano's Restaurant, contingent on Board of Health approval (5-0-0)
• Approved one-day beer and wine license for Sip and Stroll at Kingston Collection on Dec 2 (5-0-0)
• Supported Community Compact Grant application to study regionalizing Kingston and Silver Lake School District (5-0-0)
• Appointed Mary Harriman to Council on Aging Advisory Board until June 30, 2026 (5-0-0)
• Appointed Elizabeth Dube as Substitute Librarian (5-0-0)
• Appointed William Duggan as Water Department Repair Person (5-0-0)
• Accepted open session minutes of August 31, 2023 (5-0-0)

General

The Planning Board is holding a joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen. The primary purpose is to interview a candidate to fill a Planning Board position created by a resignation.

• Interview for open Planning Board position

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss remaining warrant articles for a Special Town Meeting. The committee will also consider appointing a representative to the Capital Planning Committee.

• Appointment of representative to Capital Planning Committee
• Review of remaining Special Town Meeting warrant articles

The Finance Committee voted on several warrant articles for a Special Town Meeting, including budget supplements and by-law amendments. The committee approved funding for the FY24 operating budget and tax title processing, but rejected a new revolving fund and a private ways by-law.

• Approved $387,500 supplement to FY24 Operating Budget (5-1-0)
• Denied establishment of Tax Title Collection Revolving Fund (2-4-0)
• Approved $20,000 supplement for Tax Title processing (5-1-0)
• Approved amendment to Finance Committee/Budget Process By-Law (6-0-0)
• Denied New Temporary Repairs to Private Ways By-Law (1-4-0)
• Approved acceptance of Prudent Investor Rule (5-0-0)
• Approved ratification of Solar Pilot Agreement (5-0-0)
• Approved meeting minutes from 7/13/23 (5-0-1) and 9/20/23 (6-0-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to discuss infrastructure updates and administrative matters. The agenda includes a presentation from WaterWorth and discussions on plant upgrades and staff reclassification.

• Approval for 12 one bedroom apartments at 163 Summer St./ 1 Tremont St.
• Plant Upgrade discussion
• Transfer Disposal Site discussion
• Tank 3 Discussion
• SRF Document Authorization for Town & Country

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved sewer capacity allocations and commitments, and authorized the chair to sign SRF loan forms. They also voted to send a letter to Town & Country about sewer connection conditions. The meeting minutes were postponed to the next meeting.

• Approved Commitments 24-10 and 24-12 (unanimous)
• Allocated 2,980 gallons per day sewer capacity to 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St for 12-bedroom apartment building(s) (unanimous)
• Voted to send letter to Town & Country restating sewer extension only upon written request from their governing body (unanimous)
• Authorized Chair Elaine Fiore to sign SRF loan forms provided by CDM Smith (unanimous)
• Authorized extension of Builders Risk Insurance policy if necessary (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to consider a possible reconsideration of a Leaching Field Warrant Article. The board may also discuss opening and closing the Warrant.

• Possible reconsideration of Leaching Field Warrant Article
• Possible opening and closing of Warrant

General

The Planning Board will discuss state guideline changes and a technical assistance grant from the Mass Housing Partnership. The board will also review sample zoning from other Massachusetts communities.

• Technical Assistance grant from Mass Housing Partnership on Compliance Model
• Review of state guideline changes
• Review of sample zoning from other state communities

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review bills from late September and accept minutes from the September 18 meeting. The session includes reports from the Health Agent, Public Health Nurse, and Healthy Kingston.

• Review of bills dated September 22, 25, 26, and 28, 2023
• Appointment of Brian Donohue - Sewer Commission & Wastewater Department

The Kingston Board of Health voted unanimously (3-0) to support a Sewer Commission article for the October 24, 2023 special Town Meeting, which seeks state funding to replace the existing leeching field at Indian Pond Estates. The board also approved multiple septic plans and accepted the September 18, 2023 meeting minutes. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Voted 3-0 to support Sewer Commission article for special Town Meeting on October 24, 2023
• Approved septic plans for 22 Charles Drive, 26 Charles Drive, 55 Charles Drive, 55 Longwood Circle, 6 Nava Landing, 9 School Street, 7 West Street, 6 Autumn Way, 13 Tarkiln Rd, 4 Timber Ridge Lane, 123 Wapping Road (with conditions), and 116 Three Rivers Dr
• Accepted meeting minutes of September 18, 2023 (3-0)

General

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to review and authorize September abatements, discuss designating an authorized signer for office bills, and review the consultant's fee for the Ring Road Solar project. They will also consider bills for payment and approve minutes from the August 22, 2023 meeting. The board will enter executive session to discuss exemption/abatement applications, which are not public record.

• Review and authorize September abatements
• Discuss designating an authorized signer for office bills
• Review consultant's fee for Ring Road Solar project
• Review and discuss bills for payment authorization
• Approve minutes from August 22, 2023 open session

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen is meeting to consider several action items, including road closures for block parties, use of ARPA funds, modifications to winter plow rates, new common victualler licenses, and reopening the Special Fall Town Meeting warrant for a solar PILOT agreement. They will also review a draft warrant for the Special Town Meeting and discuss the police chief job description. The meeting includes routine announcements and appointments, with several items being decided and others only discussed.

• Request to use ARPA funds from Fire, Facilities, IT, and Council on Aging departments
• Request to modify existing winter plow rates for contracted plow drivers
• Approval of new common victualler licenses at 101 Kingston Collection Way and 287 Main Street
• Re-open Special Fall Town Meeting warrant to add solar PILOT agreement article from December 2020
• Review of draft warrant proposed articles for Special Town Meeting

The Board of Selectmen approved multiple ARPA-funded projects, including HVAC replacements at fire stations, fire suppression system improvements at the Town House and Council on Aging, and network hardware purchases. They also approved a new Road Acceptance Policy, winter plow rate increases, two new common victualler licenses, and a police chief job posting with a salary range of $141,000 to $198,000. The board voted favorable action on 25 warrant articles for the Fall Town Meeting, with two articles failing (Article 15 and Article 23).

• Approved $30,978 for Central Fire Station HVAC improvements and $37,437 for Smith Lane HVAC replacement (5-0)
• Approved $53,649 for Town House fire suppression system improvements (5-0)
• Approved $14,780 for network hardware upgrades (5-0)
• Approved $58,500 for Council on Aging fire suppression improvements (5-0)
• Approved Road Acceptance Policy effective September 27, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved winter plow rates with $750 insurance bonus (5-0)
• Approved common victualler license for Luigi's Pizza and Early Bird Cafe (5-0 each)
• Approved police chief job posting with salary range $141,000-$198,000 (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to review and decide on exemption applications during an executive session. The board will also discuss updates on Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases.

• Review and decision on exemption applications
• Discussion of Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss proposed articles for a Special Town Meeting with the Board of Selectmen. The agenda is otherwise largely procedural, covering minutes, appointments, and new business. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• Attend Board of Selectmen meeting to discuss proposed article(s) for Special Town Meeting

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will discuss updates on water infrastructure projects and PFAS-related legal matters. The board is also reviewing proposed changes to the department's rules, regulations, and fee schedule.

• Review of proposed changes to Rules and Regulations and fee schedule
• Review of letter to seasonal residents regarding a new turn on/turn off fee
• Discussion of Dupont Class Action Settlement regarding Aqueous Film-Forming Foams
• Updates on Elm St Water Tank Project and Main St Water Main
• Updates on I-86 Well Cleaning and Pump Replacement

The Board of Water Commissioners approved a $35 fee for seasonal water turn-on/turn-off services, effective November 1, 2023, and approved sending notification letters to seasonal residents. The board discussed but did not vote on a PFAS class action lawsuit, tabling the matter until the next meeting. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved $35 seasonal water turn-on/turn-off fee (2-0)
• Approved notification letter to seasonal residents (2-0)
• Approved minutes of September 11, 2023 (2-0)
• Tabled PFAS class action lawsuit discussion until next meeting

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits and modifications for three different properties. The board will discuss residential renovations, a commercial maintenance building, and a multi-unit housing project.

• Public hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. to construct two new 6-unit apartment buildings
• Public hearing for Fred Tonsberg at 60 Country Club Way to modify a special permit for a golf course maintenance building
• Continued public hearing for Susan Larson at 3 Grandview Avenue regarding a second floor for living space (continued to 10/18/2023)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Scott Brown to construct two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St., with a 4-1 vote. The board denied a request to withdraw the variance request, which was no longer needed after plan changes reduced impervious coverage. The board also continued hearings for 3 Grandview Ave. and 60 Country Club Way to future dates.

• Approved special permit for two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. (4-1)
• Denied applicant's request to withdraw variance request (no second, no vote)
• Continued 3 Grandview Ave. special permit hearing to Oct. 18, 2023 (7-0)
• Continued 60 Country Club Way maintenance building hearing to Nov. 1, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of Sept. 6, 2023 (4-0)

General

The Kingston Finance Committee is meeting to welcome new members, reorganize the committee, and review Special Town Meeting warrant articles. The committee also announces vacancies on the Community Preservation and Capital Planning Committees, which it appoints. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Review Special Town Meeting warrant articles
• Welcome new members Elaine Fiore and Jason Viveiros
• Committee reorganization
• Announce vacancies on Community Preservation and Capital Planning Committees (appointed by Finance Committee)
• Meeting held at Town House, 26 Evergreen St., Room 203 and via Zoom

The Finance Committee voted on several Special Town Meeting warrant articles, approving funding for infrastructure, opioid mitigation, and administrative costs. Several articles were not voted on pending further information from town officials.

• Approved $13M borrowing for Wastewater leaching fields (6-0-1)
• Approved $242,762 from CPC funds for Opachinski Fields drainage improvements (7-0-0)
• Approved $80,000 from Free Cash for Evergreen/Pembroke intersection grant supplement (6-1-0)
• Approved $40,000 from Free Cash for Opioid Mitigation (7-0-0)
• Approved $11,542.74 from Free Cash to establish Opioid Stabilization Account (7-0-0)
• Approved $15,000 from Free Cash for Munis training (7-0-0)
• Approved $66,372 transfer from Free Cash to Employment Liability Reserve Fund (7-0-0)
• Approved $11,866.89 to pay prior year bills from unexpended articles (7-0-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to discuss infrastructure updates and operational matters. The board is reviewing a specific abatement and evaluating a key staff position.

• Abatement for 65-69 Summer St.
• Plant Upgrade
• Davis Property
• Transfer Station disposal site
• Superintendent/Chief Operator position evaluation

The Board of Sewer Commissioners voted to amend a sewer bill for 65-69 Summer St. by $79,750, reducing total consumption from 108,000. They discussed pursuing State Revolving Fund financing for new leaching fields, with an article raising the project cost from $12 million to $13 million due to inflation. The board also approved Amendment 3 and received updates on plant repairs and the loading dock project.

• Approved meeting minutes of 09/05/2023 (2-0-1)
• Voted to amend bill for 65-69 Summer St. by $79,750 (all in favor)
• Approved Amendment 3 (unanimous)
• Discussed seeking funding for 4 leaching field tanks, including connecting Town & Country to municipal sewer
• Article submitted to raise leaching field project from $12M to $13M due to inflation

General

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board will hold a regular meeting on September 19, 2023, at the Senior Center. The only new business item is a vote regarding the cafe. The meeting includes an open forum for public comment.

• Vote on the cafe
• Open forum for public comment
• Meeting broadcast on PACTV and streamed online

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will hold a meeting to discuss human resources updates, review and approve meeting minutes, and address administrative items like letterhead and bylaw amendments. The board will also discuss the process for releasing executive session minutes and plan for the next regular meeting.

• Review and approve letterhead
• Discuss bylaw amendment deadline and draft memorandum
• Review and approve minutes for June 12, 2023, August 21, 2023, and September 6, 2023
• Discuss process for approval and release of executive session meeting minutes

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board unanimously approved a revised letterhead and a draft memorandum requesting bylaw amendments for FY2025, which will be distributed to department heads. The board also scheduled an executive session for its next meeting to approve and release remaining executive session minutes from August 21, 2023. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved revised letterhead for the Wage and Personnel Board (unanimous)
• Approved bylaw amendment deadline and draft memorandum for FY2025 (unanimous)
• Scheduled executive session for next meeting to approve and release August 21, 2023 executive session minutes
• Approved open session minutes of June 12, 2023 as corrected (unanimous)
• Approved open session minutes of September 6, 2023 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review bills and reports from the Health Agent and Healthy Kingston. The board is scheduled to discuss several operational items including reporting requirements for private haulers and member guidelines.

• Grease Trap - Council on Aging
• Private Hauler reporting requirements clarification
• Public Health Nurse update
• Mission Statement and BOH Member Guidelines

The Board of Health approved 17 septic plans for various residential addresses. The board also reviewed August and September bills and accepted the minutes from the August 21 meeting.

• Approved meeting minutes of August 21, 2023 (4-0-0)
• Approved 17 septic plans for various addresses
• Issued 2 well permits
• Issued 2 retail permits for Peggy’s Kitchen

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will consider regulatory actions for properties on Stonewall Terrace and Winter Street. The board will also review enforcement items and a public hearing for a home addition. Additionally, the commission will vote on paying two vendor bills.

• $4,750.00 bill from Driveways By Heap for Calista Farms parking area paving
• $6,045.00 bill from Environmental Partners Group for July MS4 Support Services
• Public hearing for a second-floor addition at 3 Grandview Avenue
• Action items for 8 Stonewall Terrace RDA and 39 Winter Street RDA
• Enforcement reviews for 2R/6 Main Street and 110 Country Club Way

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved Negative 3 Determinations of Applicability (DOA) for projects at 8 Stonewall Terrace and 39 Winter Street, allowing construction without further review. The commission also approved bills, meeting minutes, and a continuance for a public hearing. Enforcement updates were provided for properties at 2R/6 Main Street and 110 Country Club Way.

• Approved Negative 3 DOA for 8 Stonewall Terrace porch installation (6-0)
• Approved Negative 3 DOA for 39 Winter Street deck replacement with condition for pervious decking (6-0)
• Approved $4,750 bill to Driveways by Heap for Calista Farm paving
• Approved $6,045 bill to Environmental Partners Group for MS4 support
• Approved $15,190.08 bill to Beals & Thomas for Sampson's Brook project
• Approved minutes for July 26 and August 9, 2023 meetings (6-0 each)
• Continued public hearing for 3 Grandview Avenue NOI to October 25, 2023 (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-1)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will hold elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The board will also consider a member application and a request to change by-laws.

• Nominations and elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary
• Board member application from Mary Harriman
• By-Law change request
• Policies and Procedures clean up project
• Discussion of Board Member office hours

The Council on Aging Advisory Board approved a motion to implement a café-style meal service from 9:30am to 1:00pm on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, replacing the traditional Thursday lunch format. The decision was made despite opposition from the Friends of the COA, who preferred keeping Thursday lunches unchanged. The meeting was then closed by a motion after a point of order was raised.

• Approved café-style meals for Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:30am to 1:00pm (all in favor)
• Closed the meeting after a point of order (all in favor)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss upcoming town business, including public hearings for utility installations from Eversource and Verizon. The agenda also covers a resident update on a proposed 40B development, Water Department ARPA fund requests, and closing the Special Town Meeting warrant.

• Public Hearing: Eversource Energy request to install underground cable, conduit, and one handhole on West Avenue and Rocky Nook Avenue
• Public Hearing: Verizon New England and Eversource Energy request to install one mid-span pole 19/23.5 on Brook Street
• Request from Water Department to use ARPA funds for Main Street
• Resident update regarding May Ave/Post Court proposed 40B
• Close Special Town Meeting Warrant

The Board of Selectmen approved funding for a water main upgrade and authorized two utility infrastructure projects. They also appointed two new staff members and a reviewer for financial assistance applications.

• Authorized $200,000 in ARPA funds for Main Street Water Main Project (4-0-0)
• Approved Eversource request for underground cable and conduit at West Avenue and Rocky Nook Avenue (4-0-0)
• Approved Verizon and Eversource request for a new pole on Brook Street (4-0-0)
• Appointed Catherine Dwyer as Teen and Emerging Technology Librarian (4-0-0)
• Appointed Deborah Jean Willard as Program and Property Coordinator (4-0-0)
• Appointed Tammy Murray to review Financial Assistance Applications (4-0-0)
• Accepted $1,000 anonymous donation in gift cards for the Veteran's Department (4-0-0)
• Accepted resignation of Austin Sennett from COA Advisory Board (4-0-0)

General

The Council on Aging Advisory Board is holding a regular meeting on September 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM at the Kingston Town House. The agenda text contains only procedural boilerplate—meeting logistics, remote participation details, and recording notices—with no specific items listed for discussion or decision.

• Meeting held in-person at Kingston Town House, 26 Evergreen Street, with remote participation via Zoom

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen is meeting on September 12, 2023, at 6:45 PM. The agenda consists solely of a call to order followed by a recess to executive session to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation, with no return to open session. No other business is listed.

• Executive session for collective bargaining or litigation strategy

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will vote on addressing the FY24 budget shortfall, including reallocation of retained earnings and a water rate increase. They will also discuss project updates, consider an abatement request, and review a payment for hydrant work.

• Vote on FY24 budget shortfall, retained earnings reallocation, and water rate increase
• Discussion of Grassy Hole/I-86 Treatment Plant, 1-86 Well Cleaning, and Main Street Water Main projects
• Request for abatement at 65-69 Summer St due to water leak
• Request for $5,543 payment from Planning Dept for hydrant work at RT 27/106 - Cumberland Farms intersection
• Update on Elm Street Tank Maintenance Project

The Board of Water Commissioners unanimously approved a water rate increase of 50 cents per thousand gallons in all tiers and raised the quarterly service charge from $36 to $42, effective November 1, 2023. The board also voted to reallocate $200K from retained earnings to supplement the FY24 budget, contingent on Board of Selectmen approval of additional ARPA funding. An abatement request for 65-69 Summer St was tabled pending clarification on repairs.

• Approved water rate increase of $0.50 per thousand gallons in all tiers and quarterly service charge increase from $36 to $42, effective Nov 1, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved reallocation of $200K from retained earnings to supplement FY24 budget, contingent on Board of Selectmen approving $200K additional ARPA funding (3-0)
• Approved minutes of August 9 and August 22, 2023 as presented (3-0)
• Tabled abatement request for 65-69 Summer St (A3 Restaurant) pending confirmation of leak repair and bill clarification
• Adjourned meeting at 4:53pm (2-0)

Planning

The Planning Board will meet to discuss a proposal regarding the conveyance of land at 6 Pico Ave. The board will also review meeting minutes from January through April 2023.

• Proposed conveyance of 'Lot 7' at 6 Pico Ave (Map 76 Lot 70) from Patrick and Nicole Gorman to William and Christine Watson

The Kingston Planning Board voted 3-0 to endorse the ANR plan for a land conveyance between family members at 6-8 Pico Ave, with no new construction or frontage changes. The board also approved minutes from several prior meetings and discussed upcoming items including a Fall Town Meeting zoning amendment request and various ongoing projects.

• Endorsed ANR plan for 6-8 Pico Ave land conveyance (3-0)
• Approved April 10, 2023 minutes with spelling correction (3-0)
• Approved January 9, 2023 minutes as presented (3-0)
• Approved January 23, 2023 minutes as presented (3-0)
• Approved February 13, 2023 minutes as presented (3-0)
• Approved March 13, 2023 minutes as presented (3-0)
• Accepted March 27, 2023 minutes as presented (3-0)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will meet to review and approve documents for submission to the Assistant Town Administrator ahead of the Fall Town Meeting. The meeting is open to the public in-person at Town House-26 Evergreen St. Room 101 or via Zoom.

The Board approved a 3.5% retroactive cost of living adjustment for the Animal Inspector and Assistant Harbormaster. It also approved several changes to compensation schedules and leave sections for submission to the Fall Town Meeting.

• Approved 3.5% COLA for Assistant Harbormaster ($3,922) and Animal Inspector ($7,577) retroactive to July 1, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved changes to Section 10 (Vacation Leave), Section 12 (Bereavement Leave), and Section 13 (Longevity Compensation) (Unanimous)
• Eliminated Election Officer position from Schedules A and C-1 (Unanimous)
• Added Inspector – Election (Clerical, Schedule C-1) and Inspector – Election (hourly, 15.53) to Section 16 (Unanimous)
• Increased hourly rate for Clerk – Election and Warden – Election from 15.53 to 17.53 in Schedule C-1 (Unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and choose a firm to conduct the search for a Police Chief. The board will also appoint liaisons to work with the selected search firm.

• Selection of Police Chief search firm
• Appointment of Board of Selectmen Liaison(s) for the Police Chief search

The Board of Selectmen selected a firm to conduct the search for a new Police Chief. The board also appointed two members to act as liaisons between the town and the selected firm.

• Hired Public Safety Consultants to conduct the Police Chief search (5-0)
• Appointed Eric Crone and Tyler Bouchard as liaisons for the Police Chief search (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two special permit applications. The first, continued from a previous date, seeks approval to construct two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. The second involves expanding a nonconforming structure at 18 Bay View Avenue. The board will also approve meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St.: special permit, waivers, and variance for two 6-unit apartment buildings (continued to 9/20/2023)
• Public hearing for 18 Bay View Avenue (Map 49 Lot 83): special permit to enclose an 8x12 area on an existing deck for living space
• Meeting minutes to be approved
• Meeting held in Room 200, Town Hall, 26 Evergreen Street, with remote access via Zoom

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Patricia Jones to expand a preexisting nonconforming structure at 18 Bay View Avenue by enclosing an 8x12 area on an existing deck as living space. The board also continued the hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. to September 20, 2023, and approved the minutes from July 19, 2023. All votes were unanimous (4-0).

• Approved special permit for 18 Bay View Ave deck enclosure (4-0)
• Continued hearing for 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. to 9/20/2023 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from July 19, 2023 (4-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission will meet to approve minutes, consider appointments for Scott Cohen and 42nd Parallel Brewery, and act on several sewer commitments and abatements. New business includes discussions on the Indian Pond Maintenance Facility, a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, staffing, and a superintendent evaluation.

• Appointment: Scott Cohen – 48 Howlands Lane
• Appointment: 42nd Parallel Brewery – Summer Street
• Commitment 24-01: $2,440
• Commitment 24-02: $8,324.60
• Abatement 24-04: ($671.00)

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved minutes from five prior meetings and discussed appointments, including a plan for five house lots at 48 Howlands Lane and a water recapture plan from 42nd Parallel Brewery. Superintendent Walsh reported the plant upgrade is moving along and announced a future Zoom presentation with Waterworth. No formal votes were taken on substantive matters beyond approving the minutes and adjourning.

• Approved minutes from 04/29/2023, 05/09/2023, 05/18/2023, 06/06/2023, and 07/06/2023
• Discussed Scott Cohen's appointment for 48 Howlands Lane (5 house lots, 4 four-bedroom, 1 five-bedroom)
• Discussed 42nd Parallel Brewery's water recapture plan (98% recapture, 20 gallons/day or less, 2-3 brews/week)
• Noted plant upgrade is moving along
• Welcomed Jeanne Dunn as new Administrative Assistant
• Adjourned unanimously at 5:31 PM

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will interview three firms—Municipal Resources, Inc., BadgeQuest Inc, and Public Safety Consultants—to assist in recruiting a new police chief. The meeting also includes an open forum, announcements, and routine reports.

• Interview Municipal Resources, Inc. at 5:30 PM
• Interview BadgeQuest Inc at 6:15 PM
• Interview Public Safety Consultants at 7:15 PM
• Library closed Sept 1 for carpet installation, reopens Sept 5

The Board of Selectmen interviewed three firms—Municipal Resources, Inc., BadgeQuest Inc., and Public Safety Consultants—for police chief recruitment services. No contract was awarded; the board will vote at a later date. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive decisions.

• Interviewed Municipal Resources, Inc. for police chief recruitment (no vote)
• Interviewed BadgeQuest Inc. for police chief recruitment (no vote)
• Interviewed Public Safety Consultants for police chief recruitment (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board is scheduled to meet on August 30, 2023, to discuss 30 Prospect Street regarding a Freedom Boat storage yard. The agenda consists primarily of this discussion along with standard administrative business such as meeting minutes and new or old business.

• Discussion regarding 30 Prospect Street Freedom Boat storage yard

The Kingston Planning Board discussed an apparent violation of the Freedom Boat Club's special permit at 30 Prospect St, where a stop-work order was issued on August 24, 2023, due to excessive clearing, grading, and fill beyond the approved scope. The board allowed grading to continue with less disruptive equipment, but required that screening plantings be installed before any boats are stored on site, and that work not begin before 8 AM. The board also required riprap along the rear of the site where grading created a drop-off.

• Allowed grading to continue with less disruptive equipment, replacing vibratory compressor
• Required screening plantings installed along entire fence (except gate) before boats stored
• Required riprap along rear of site where grading drops off before silt fence
• Set work start time no earlier than 8 AM
• Confirmed plantings permitted in street layout if petitioner maintains them in writing

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss road acceptance options and a proposed snow plowing policy for unaccepted roads. The body is also considering several personnel appointments and a lease amendment for the Elm Street Water Tank.

• Public Hearing: Farmer Series Pouring Permit for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co at 77 Summer Street
• One Day Liquor License request from Brewery 44 for the September 10 Agricultural Fair
• Amendment on Agreement for Relocation of Leased Premises and Equipment on Elm Street Water Tank
• Appointments for Wastewater Department Administrative Assistant, Public Health Nurse, and Transfer Station Operator
• Presentation on Options Road Acceptance and Proposed Snow Plowing on Unaccepted Road Policy

The Board of Selectmen approved a Farmer Series Pouring Permit for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co. at 77 Summer Street, a one-day liquor license for Brewery 44 at the Agricultural Fair, and a policy for plowing unaccepted roads. They also supported adding a draft article on temporary road repair bylaw to the Special Town Meeting warrant, and made several personnel appointments. The board discussed but did not vote on a road acceptance policy update.

• Approved Farmer Series Pouring Permit for 42nd Parallel Brewing Co. (4-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Brewery 44 for Agricultural Fair (4-0)
• Approved policy for plowing unaccepted roads (4-0)
• Supported adding temporary road repair bylaw article to Special Town Meeting warrant (4-0)
• Appointed Jeanne Dunn as Wastewater Administrative Assistant (4-0)
• Appointed Michael Divirgilio as Public Health Nurse (4-0)
• Appointed Michael Rubera as Transfer Station Operator (4-0)
• Approved lease amendment for cellular equipment on Elm Street Water Tank (4-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss solutions for a water revenue shortfall. The board will also receive engineering updates on the Main St Water Main Project and the I-86/Grassy Hole Water Treatment Plant.

• Discussion on water revenue shortfall and possible solutions
• Engineering updates for I-86/Grassy Hole Water Treatment Plant and Main St Water Main Project
• Request to remove interest charges for 15 Baker Ave
• Updates on Elm St Tank cleaning and Pembroke St Tank cell carrier upgrades
• Report on water shut-offs at 32 Deer Run Rd and 10 Atwood Street

The Board discussed a projected $404,000 FY23 revenue deficit and a $400,000 FY24 shortfall, with officials recommending a $0.35 per-thousand-gallon rate increase, stricter shut-off policies, and new service fees. No formal votes were taken on these proposals; the board tabled the August 9 minutes and approved a $41 interest abatement for 15 Baker Ave. The board also set future meetings for Mondays starting September 11.

• Tabled August 9, 2023 minutes until next meeting
• Approved $41 interest charge abatement for 15 Baker Ave (3-0)
• Set future meetings for Mondays at 4pm starting September 11
• Discussed but did not vote on $0.35 rate increase proposal
• Discussed but did not vote on lowering shut-off threshold from $500 to $250
• Discussed but did not vote on charging town for water usage (~$22K/year)
• Discussed but did not vote on new service fees for turn-ons, inspections
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and authorize bills, meeting minutes, the Ring Road solar project, the 2023 Motor Vehicle commitment, July abatements and exemptions, and a release of a land tax lien. The board will also enter executive session to discuss matters under state law. This is a routine administrative meeting with no major policy decisions expected.

• Review and authorize 2023 Motor Vehicle commitment 4
• Discussion of Ring Road solar project
• Review and authorize July abatements and exemptions
• Review and authorize State Tax Form CL-9, Release of Classified Forest-Agricultural Land Tax Lien
• Enter executive session under MGL C.30A §21(A)(7)

The Kingston Board of Assessors met and approved several routine items, including bills, meeting minutes, the motor vehicle commitment, and August abatements. They also unanimously agreed to hire a consultant for the Ring Road Solar project and signed a release of land tax lien for 318 Elm Street. The meeting was brief and procedural, with no major policy changes.

• Approved bills
• Approved June 27 and July 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Unanimously agreed to hire a consultant for Ring Road Solar project
• Authorized motor vehicle commitment
• Authorized August abatements
• Signed release of land tax lien for 318 Elm Street

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors is meeting to review and decide on exemption applications and discuss Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases. The agenda also includes approval of the July 25, 2023 meeting minutes.

• Review and decision on exemption applications
• Discussion of Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases
• Approval of July 25, 2023 meeting minutes

The Board of Assessors approved the minutes from the July 25, 2023 meeting. The board also reviewed and approved 68 exemption applications for fiscal year 2024. Members received an update on pending ATB cases.

• Approved July 25, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved 68 FY2024 exemption applications

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will meet to review bills, approve minutes, and hear reports from the Health Agent and Healthy Kingston. They will discuss creating ServeSafe classes for the public, an EEE update, a resource list, revisiting well signage, a pre-occupancy fee, flu clinics, and hiring a septic consultant. A variance request for 17 Brentwood is also on the agenda.

• Variance request for 17 Brentwood
• Discussion on creating ServeSafe classes for the public
• Discussion on EEE update
• Discussion on fee for pre-occupancy
• Discussion on consultant for septic

The Kingston Board of Health voted 4-0 to authorize Chairman Joe Casna to approve a septic system variance for 17 Brentwood Road, allowing the repair to proceed without waiting for another meeting. The board also approved a $100 fee for pre-occupancy housing inspections and accepted the July 24, 2023 meeting minutes. Health Agent Joyce Krystofolski reported on approved septic plans, inspections, and a job offer for a nursing position.

• Authorized chairman to approve 17 Brentwood Road septic variance (4-0)
• Approved $100 fee for pre-occupancy housing inspections (4-0)
• Accepted July 24, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Approved 13 septic plans with expiration dates
• Job offer made for nursing position after two interviews

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to review two ANR (approval not required) plans, discuss upcoming town meeting articles including potential zoning changes, and consider updates to the ADU bylaw and solar regulations. The board will also review minutes from previous meetings. No final votes are listed on the agenda.

• ANR Plan for Claremont Plymouth LLC off Route 80 (Map 104 Lot 6) dividing land into 2 lots for abutters in Plymouth
• ANR Plan for 164 Wapping Road (Map 51 Lot 38) conveying Parcel A to abutter, no new lots
• Discussion of potential housekeeping article for Fall Town Meeting (Oct 24, 2023)
• Discussion of MBTA zoning outreach and engagement for Spring 2024
• Discussion of engaging consultant to update ADU bylaw for spring

The Board approved two After Neighborhood Recording (ANR) plans for land conveyance. It also voted to reduce a performance bond for the Jones River Estates developer based on remaining work. The Town Planner discussed upcoming zoning and bylaw updates for future Town Meetings.

• Approved ANR Plan for Claremont Plymouth LLC with disclaimer of no access via Nicks Rock Road (5-0-0)
• Approved ANR Plan for 164 Wapping Road (5-0-0)
• Approved reducing Jones River Estates performance bond to an amount determined by Town engineer plus 40% contingency after paving (5-0-0)
• Approved July 11, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0-2)
• Approved May 8, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved August 8, 2022 meeting minutes with one minor change (4-0-1)
• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved November 14, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0-1)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will discuss potential changes to the FY2024 Wage and Personnel Bylaw for the fall town meeting. The board will also review pay rates for election workers and a new Public Health Nurse hire.

• Hourly rates for election workers and clerical positions in Schedule C-1
• Salary for a new Public Health Nurse hire at Step 10 of Grade 6
• Negotiated KTEU benefit changes for bereavement, vacation, and longevity
• Proposed changes to the FY2024 Wage and Personnel Bylaw
• Clarification on the Senior Tax Write-off Program

The Wage and Personnel Board unanimously approved changes to election worker titles and hourly rates, increasing Clerk-Election and Warden-Election pay to $17.53 per hour and renaming Election Officer to Inspector-Election at $15.53 per hour, to be proposed at the Fall Town Meeting. The board also unanimously set the pay for a new part-time Public Health Nurse at $35.25 per hour (Grade 6, Step 10) for 15 hours per week, and voted to align Wage and Personnel Bylaw benefits with KTEU-negotiated changes effective July 1, 2023, including increased bereavement leave, vacation accrual, and longevity pay.

• Approved election worker title change to Inspector-Election at $15.53/hr (unanimous)
• Approved Clerk-Election wage increase to $17.53/hr (unanimous)
• Approved Warden-Election wage increase to $17.53/hr (unanimous)
• Approved Public Health Nurse hire at $35.25/hr, 15 hrs/week, Grade 6 Step 10 (unanimous)
• Approved proposing KTEU benefit changes (bereavement, vacation, longevity) effective July 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 24, 2023 (Burgio abstained) and July 27, 2023 (unanimous)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss several operational and infrastructure items. The agenda includes a plant upgrade, reorganization, and updates from the superintendent.

• Plant Upgrade
• Davis Property
• Amendment NO 3
• Change Orders
• Reorganization

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved Amendment 3, a $195,000 contract modification for CDM Smith's construction services through September 8, 2023, covering O&M manuals, record drawings, training, and $22,000 for new well construction. The board also re-elected Elaine Fiore as Chair and Bill Watson as Vice Chair, and discussed pursuing funding for leaching fields at the Davis Property, including a possible connection of Town & Country to the sewer system.

• Approved Amendment 3 for CDM Smith construction services ($195,000) (unanimous)
• Re-elected Elaine Fiore as Chair (unanimous)
• Re-elected Bill Watson as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Accepted minutes from 4/4, 4/10, 4/18, 4/21/2023 (2-0-1)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss updates to the town's budget process bylaws and host community agreements for cultivation and delivery. The board is also considering several license requests and personnel appointments.

• Review of proposed changes to Chapter 3 of Town Bylaws regarding Finance Committee and Budget Process
• Consideration of updated and new Community Host Agreements for Cultivation and Delivery
• Request from Eversource for a license agreement for one parking space in the library lot
• Request for a one-day liquor license from Hilltop Athletic Association
• Approval of a new Common Victualler License

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved an amended Host Community Agreement for retail sales and two new agreements for cultivation and delivery with Elevated Roots, a marijuana establishment. The board also approved a license agreement with Eversource for a transformer in the Library parking lot, a new common victualler license for Suji's Kitchen, a one-day liquor license for Hilltop Athletic Association, and several appointments. No substantive decisions were made on the proposed Chapter 3 bylaw changes, which were only discussed.

• Approved amended Host Community Agreement with Elevated Roots for retail marijuana sales (5-0)
• Approved Host Community Agreement with Elevated Roots for marijuana cultivation (5-0)
• Approved Host Community Agreement with Elevated Roots for marijuana delivery (5-0)
• Approved Eversource license agreement for transformer in Library parking lot (5-0)
• Approved common victualler license for Suji's Kitchen, contingent on Board of Health approval (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Hilltop Athletic Association softball tournament, contingent on TIPS certifications (5-0)
• Appointed Kathleen Studley to Council on Aging Advisory Board (5-0)
• Appointed Brian Woods to Zoning Board of Appeals as Associate Member (5-0)

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging Advisory Board is holding a special meeting on August 15, 2023, at the Kingston Town House and via Zoom. The agenda includes a special session to honor Joe Favaloro and a discussion on a recommendation to the Board of Selectmen regarding an open Board position for Kathy Studly.

• Special Meeting to honor Joe Favaloro
• Recommendation to BOS regarding open Board position for Kathy Studly

General

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to make an appointment for the Silver Lake Regional School Committee meeting. The discussion will focus on a Regional Agreement Update.

• Appointment to attend Silver Lake Regional School Committee Meeting regarding Regional Agreement Update

The Board discussed a proposed new administration building estimated to cost between $7.5 million and $10 million. Members also reviewed updates to the regional school agreement regarding the Pre-K program. No formal votes were taken on these items.

General

The Finance Committee is meeting via Google Meet to attend a joint meeting with the Silver Lake Regional School Committee.

• Joint meeting with Silver Lake Regional School Committee

General

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners is meeting to approve bills and minutes, consider a finalist for an administrative assistant position, and hear engineering updates from Kristen Berger on the stormwater bioretention pond at Grassy Hole/I-86, the Main St water main project, and well cleaning. The water superintendent will also report on a pump operator position and the quarterly billing process.

• Vote to approve minutes of July 11 and July 25, 2023
• Appointment of Laurie Whitley as finalist for Administrative Assistant
• Engineering update on Stormwater Bioretention Pond at Grassy Hole/I-86 Treatment Facility
• Update on Main St Water Main project
• Update on Well Cleaning I-86

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners approved the minutes from July 11 and July 25, 2023, and welcomed Laurie Whitley as the finalist for the administrative assistant position, pending Selectmen approval. The board also discussed ongoing projects, including stormwater pond repairs, the Main Street water main project, and safety concerns at the Elm Street drainage project, with the Town Administrator agreeing to address issues. No formal votes were taken on these project discussions.

• Approved minutes of July 11 and July 25, 2023 (2-0)
• Endorsed Laurie Whitley as finalist for water department administrative assistant
• Instructed engineer to proceed with survey work for Main Street water main project (estimated $5K)
• Agreed to discuss FY24 revenue shortfall and potential water rate increases at next meeting

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will meet to sign an Order of Conditions for the Bay Farm Association Trust and approve a $4,556.91 payment to Beals & Thomas for the Sampson's Brook Headwaters Restoration. The agenda also includes enforcement actions at several properties, approval of July 12 meeting minutes, and an update on Eversource's 5-year plan.

• Order of Conditions - Bay Farm Association Trust
• $4,556.91 to Beals & Thomas for Sampson's Brook Headwaters Restoration
• Enforcement: Curtis Avenue / 8 Cedar Lane, 2R/6 Main Street, 15 Bagnell Street, 71 Elm Street
• Subdivisions follow up Enforcement Orders
• Eversource 5 year plan update

The Kingston Conservation Commission issued enforcement orders for properties at 2R/6 Main Street, 15 Bagnell Street, and 71 Elm Street, requiring restoration of disturbed wetland areas. The commission also discussed ongoing enforcement at 8 Cedar Lane and subdivisions, and approved the July 12 meeting minutes.

• Issued enforcement order for 2R/6 Main Street requiring pipe removal and capping within 30 days, with $300 daily fines if not completed (7-0)
• Issued enforcement order for 15 Bagnell Street requiring natural revegetation, with garden allowed until harvest, and site visit in one year (6-0)
• Issued enforcement order for 71 Elm Street requiring grading, removal of dumped material, and wood chip cover, with site visit in one year (6-0)
• Approved minutes from July 12, 2023 meeting (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:13 p.m. (6-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to enter an executive session. The board will not return to open session after the recess.

• Discussion of strategy regarding Graziano v. Town of Kingston

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss firms for the Police Chief search and review financial assistance applications. The board is also scheduled to make appointments for the Water Department and Elder Affairs.

• Discussion of interviewing firms to conduct Police Chief search
• Appointment of the Assistant Director of Elder Affairs
• Appointment of Administrative Assistant in the Water Department
• Review of Financial Assistance Application

The Board of Selectmen approved a $3,000 financial assistance payment to a resident's mortgage company, appointed Holly Nighelli as Assistant Director of Elder Affairs and Laurie Whitley as Administrative Assistant in the Water Department, and directed the Town Administrator to invite at least three search firms to interview for the police chief search. All votes were 5-0-0. The meeting also included announcements about pedestrian safety work and a vegetable-sharing program.

• Approved $3,000 financial assistance for mortgage payment (5-0)
• Appointed Holly Nighelli as Assistant Director of Elder Affairs (5-0)
• Appointed Laurie Whitley as Administrative Assistant in Water Department (5-0)
• Instructed Town Administrator to invite at least three police chief search firms for interviews (5-0)
• Accepted open session minutes from July 18 and August 1, 2023 (5-0)

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging meets to discuss staff and committee reports, vote on new board officers, and welcome Kathy Studley. The agenda also includes discussions on adding a monthly meeting day, reviewing policies and procedures, and scheduling a special meeting for August 15.

• New Board Officers Vote
• Welcome Kathy Studley
• Special Meeting - August 15
• Additional day for monthly meetings
• Policies and Procedures

The Kingston Council on Aging board voted to delay the election of new officers until a full board is present, and took nominations for Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary. The board also voted to eliminate the suggestion box and appointed a working group to review Policies and Procedures.

• Motion to accept June Secretary's report approved (all in favor)
• Motion to delay officer vote until full board present approved (4-2)
• Nominations taken for Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary (vote deferred)
• Motion to eliminate suggestion box approved (5-1)
• Working group appointed to review Policies and Procedures (Caty and Mary)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits for residential construction and business modifications. The board will also determine if requested changes to a dog daycare's services constitute a minor or major modification.

• Special Permit request for 23 Spruce Street to raze and rebuild a single-family dwelling on a nonconforming lot
• Review of modification request for 'Off the Hook Dog Daycare' at 114R Main Street to add grooming, baths, and blowouts
• Continued hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. regarding two new 6-unit apartment buildings (rescheduled to 8/16/2023)

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Charlene Nazaretian to raze and rebuild a single-family dwelling at 23 Spruce Street on a pre-existing, nonconforming lot, with conditions. The board also determined that adding dog grooming at Off the Hook Dog Daycare is a minor modification, but other requested changes are major. Two other applications were continued to September 6, 2023.

• Approved special permit for 23 Spruce St. rebuild with conditions (4-0)
• Determined dog grooming at Off the Hook Dog Daycare is a minor modification (4-0)
• Continued 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. application to September 6, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of 6/21/2023 (4-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a meeting on August 2, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Room 203. The board will enter executive session to discuss litigation and mediation strategy regarding a May Avenue 40B decision before returning to open session.

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen is meeting to recess into executive session to discuss litigation strategy regarding the case Town of Kingston v. Kingston Superior Officers Union, MCOP, Local 386. The agenda contains only this one item, which is procedural and not open to the public.

• Executive session for litigation strategy under Chapter 30A Section 21(a)(3)
• Case: Town of Kingston v. Kingston Superior Officers Union, MCOP, Local 386, 1983 CV 00582B (Plymouth Superior Court)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet on August 1 at 6:00 PM in Town House Room 200 or via Zoom to interview candidates for an open Sewer Commission position and hold a public hearing on Eversource Energy’s request to install underground conduit along Kingston Street. The meeting also includes appointments, a discussion on hiring a police department review firm, and a town administrator’s report.

• Joint meeting with Sewer Commissioners to interview candidates for open position
• Public hearing on Eversource Energy’s petition to install underground conduit and one handhole along Kingston Street
• Continued discussion on hiring a firm to conduct an independent review of the Police Department
• Appointment of Board of Registrars and Assistant Tax Collector
• Annual reappointment to Agricultural Commission

The Board of Selectmen, in a joint meeting with Sewer Commissioners, appointed Brian Donahoe to fill the Sewer Commission vacancy left by Thomas Taylor's resignation, effective until the next Annual Town Election. The board also approved an Eversource request to install underground conduit along Kingston Street, approved use of Town House property for a Class of 2025 cow plop event, and made several other appointments. No substantive decisions were made on the police department review, which remains under discussion.

• Appointed Brian Donahoe to Sewer Commission (6-1, Emberg opposed)
• Approved Eversource underground conduit and handhole along Kingston Street (5-0)
• Approved Class of 2025 cow plop on Town House lawn (5-0)
• Opened 2023 Special Town Meeting Warrant (5-0)
• Appointed Charles Read to Board of Registrars (5-0)
• Reappointed Elizabeth Corbett to Agricultural Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Jean Landis Naumann to Agricultural Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Debora Barry as Assistant Tax Collector and Phillip Woerner as COA Cook (5-0)

General

The Kingston Sewer Commission will hold a joint meeting with the Board of Selectmen to interview candidates for an open position on the Sewer Commission due to a resignation. The meeting is scheduled for August 1, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Town House Room 200 and via Zoom.

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission will meet on August 1, 2023, to review and approve past meeting minutes, discuss a plant upgrade, address the David Property item, review staff matters, receive an update from the superintendent, and consider a replacement for the Sewer Commissioner. The meeting is open to the public in-person or via Zoom.

• Approval of February and March 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of wastewater plant upgrade
• Consideration of David Property item
• Update from superintendent
• Sewer Commissioner replacement

The Board of Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved meeting minutes from 2/21, 2/28, and 3/21/2023. Superintendent Walsh reported ongoing plant upgrades, including tank repairs and paving, and noted CDM Smith was authorized to replace monitoring wells. The SRF loan application for the Davis Property was resubmitted, but the project cannot move forward this year due to the DEP approval deadline before Town Meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved meeting minutes of 2/21/2023, 2/28/2023, 3/21/2023 (unanimous)
• Authorized CDM Smith to replace monitoring wells (reported)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:45 PM (unanimous)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will discuss and likely approve starting salaries for a new Facilities Manager and an Assistant Director of Elder Affairs. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Salary discussion for new Facilities Manager at Step 5 of Grade 11
• Salary discussion for new Assistant Director of Elder Affairs at Step 5 of Grade 5

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board unanimously approved setting the salary for a new Assistant Director of Elder Affairs at Grade 5, Step 5 ($61,350) and for a new Facilities Manager at Grade 11, Step 5 ($93,212). Both votes were unanimous. The board also discussed agenda items for the next meeting, including wage increases for election workers.

• Approved Assistant Director of Elder Affairs at Grade 5, Step 5, annual salary $61,350 (unanimous)
• Approved Facilities Manager at Grade 11, Step 5, annual salary $93,212 (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct a public hearing regarding invasive vegetation maintenance in a pond. The board will also review enforcement items for several local addresses and sign payment documents for environmental services.

• Public hearing: Bay Farm Association Trust Notice of Intent for invasive vegetation maintenance in a pond
• Payment of $7,294.37 to Beals & Thomas for Sampson's Brook Headwaters Restoration
• Payment of $2,375.00 to Environmental Partners Group for June MS4 Support Services
• Enforcement reviews for 71 Elm Street, 2R/6 Main Street, 1 Royson Drive, and 19 Kingston Street
• Request for Certificate of Compliance for Parting Ways Road Map 105, Parcel 6&7

The Kingston Conservation Commission unanimously approved a partial Certificate of Compliance for 30 Christmas Tree Lane, clearing that parcel from open Orders of Conditions. It also issued a $300 fine for unresolved stormwater issues at 2R/6 Main Street, with daily fines of $300 starting August 8 if not fixed. The commission approved a Notice of Intent for invasive vegetation maintenance at Bay Farm Association Trust pond, and discussed enforcement at 71 Elm Street for unauthorized digging.

• Approved partial Certificate of Compliance for 30 Christmas Tree Lane (6-0)
• Issued $300 fine for stormwater issues at 2R/6 Main Street (6-0)
• Approved daily fines of $300 starting Aug 8 if stormwater issues unresolved (6-0)
• Approved Notice of Intent for invasive vegetation maintenance at Bay Farm pond (6-0)
• Approved minutes of June 28, 2023 (6-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will discuss updates on water treatment, well cleaning, and the Main St water main project. The board will also receive reports on cell tower updates and the status of outstanding water bill collections.

• Shut Off program report of approximately $75K (64%) collected in outstanding water bills
• Updates on Grassy Hole / I-86 Water Treatment Plant
• Updates on Main St Water Main Project
• Cell tower updates for water tanks at Elm St and Pembroke St
• Memo to Conservation Commission regarding Elm St drainage project

The Board approved sending a draft letter to the contractor (Winston Builders) regarding the stormwater pond washout at the Grassy Hole/I-86 Water Treatment Plant, asking them to correct the issue before the performance guarantee period expires in early August. The Board also approved the June 20, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-1, with Chairman Loring abstaining) and tabled the July 11, 2023 minutes until the next meeting. No other formal votes were taken; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved sending draft letter to contractor re: stormwater pond washout (unanimous)
• Approved June 20, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-1, Loring abstained)
• Tabled July 11, 2023 meeting minutes until next meeting (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and authorize payments for bills, approve abatements for July, and consider abatement of uncollected excise taxes. They will also approve minutes from the June 27 meeting and then enter executive session to discuss matters under MGL C.59 §60.

• Review and discuss bills for payment authorization
• Review and authorize July abatements
• Review and authorize abatement of uncollected taxes
• Approve minutes from June 27, 2023 open session
• Executive session under MGL C.30A §21(A)(7) for MGL C.59 §60 matters

The Board of Assessors reviewed and authorized payment of various bills, approved motor vehicle excise abatements, and authorized July abatements. The board postponed approval of June 27, 2023 meeting minutes due to a member's absence, and voted to enter executive session.

• Authorized payment of office supply and subscription bills totaling $6,660.16
• Authorized motor vehicle excise abatements for 2016 and 2017 bills
• Authorized July abatements
• Postponed approval of June 27, 2023 meeting minutes
• Voted 2-0 to enter executive session under MGL C.30A §21(A)(7)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review and decide on exemption applications. The board will also discuss new ABC applications, late abatement applications, and a chapter land lien release.

• Decision on exemption applications
• Review of new ABC applications
• Review of late abatement applications
• Review of chapter land lien release

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review bills and meeting minutes and receive reports from the Health Agent and Healthy Kingston. The board will also discuss food establishment permitting and merchants with non-compliant permits.

• Discussion on food establishment permitting processes
• Discussion on non-compliant merchants regarding permits
• Discussion on application expiration dates
• Discussion regarding American Legion

The Board of Health established a new time limit for completing business permit applications. The board also reviewed septic plan approvals and discussed beach testing and food establishment permits.

• Approved 28-day limit for business owners to complete permit application components or the application expires (4-0-0)
• Accepted July 10, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-0)
• Approved septic plans for 15 properties
• Decided to maintain twice-monthly meeting schedule with a liberal cancellation policy

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request by John Breen for a property at 195 Summer Street. The applicant seeks to reduce the required lot area from 30,000 to a smaller size for a two-family dwelling in an R-20 zone. The board will also approve meeting minutes.

• Public hearing: variance request by John Breen, 195 Summer Street, to reduce 30,000 sq ft lot requirement for two-family in R-20 zone
• Site plan by Webby Engineering dated 2/14/2022
• Meeting minutes to be approved

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals met on July 19, 2023, to consider a variance request by John Breen for 195 Summer St. to allow a two-family home in an R-20 zone. Board members expressed doubts about hardship, and the hearing was continued to August 16, 2023, with a 3-1 vote. The applicant withdrew the application on July 24, 2023, so no variance was granted.

• Continued variance hearing for 195 Summer St. to August 16, 2023 (3-1)
• Applicant withdrew application on 7/24/2023
• Opened public hearing for 195 Summer St. (4-0)
• Closed ZBA meeting (4-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission will convene on July 18, 2023, at 4:30 PM in Town House Room 203 (Evergreen St.) and via Zoom to approve recent meeting minutes and discuss routine wastewater-plant and staff items. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

The Board of Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved spending up to $17,000 for Evoqua, and accepted the minutes from January and February 2023. Superintendent Walsh reported progress on tank repairs, with two monitoring wells needing to be redrilled, and noted several applicants for the vacant Administrative Assistant position. No updates were provided on the Davis Property.

• Approved meeting minutes of January 17, 2023 and February 7, 2023 (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $17,000 for Evoqua (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 4:45 PM (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss the process for filling an upcoming Police Chief vacancy and handle various board and commission appointments. The agenda also includes discussions on filling a Sewer Commission vacancy, accepting a donation, and approving meeting minutes from July 11 and July 13, 2023.

• Discussion on the Process to Fill the Upcoming Police Chief Vacancy
• Acceptance of Donation
• Appointment to the Agricultural Commission and COA Advisory Board
• Annual Reappointment to Affordable Housing Trust
• Appointment of Facilities Manager

The Board of Selectmen appointed Robert Cuoco as Facilities Manager, subject to background checks and a six-month probationary period. They also accepted donations totaling $11,300, made two appointments to the Council on Aging Advisory Board, and reappointed a member to the Affordable Housing Trust. The Board discussed the process to fill the upcoming Police Chief vacancy, including the potential use of a search committee and associated costs, but took no formal vote on that matter.

• Appointed Robert Cuoco as Facilities Manager (5-0)
• Accepted $800 donation in gift cards to Veteran's Department (5-0)
• Accepted $10,500 donation from Kingston Public Library Foundation (5-0)
• Appointed Mary Hayes to Council on Aging Advisory Board, 3-year term (5-0)
• Appointed Kathleen Studley as alternate to Council on Aging Advisory Board, 1-year term (5-0)
• Reappointed Jennifer Alukonis Toska to Affordable Housing Trust, 2-year term (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 11 and July 13, 2023, as amended (5-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to discuss and potentially approve FY23 budget line-item transfers, along with routine announcements, open forum, and administrative reports. The agenda is largely procedural, with the budget transfers being the only substantive item.

• FY23 Budget Line-Item Transfers

The Board of Selectmen approved a $62,811.30 line-item transfer for the school department, reallocating funds from Special Education and Vocational Education to Regular Day School to cover increased homeless transportation costs. The motion passed unanimously 4-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Approved $62,811.30 school budget line-item transfer (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Kingston Finance Committee is meeting to consider a line item transfer request, which is the only substantive item on the agenda. The meeting is open to the public and will be held in person and via Zoom.

• Line item transfer request

The Finance Committee approved a $62,811.30 line-item transfer within the Kingston School Department budget, moving funds from Special Education and Vocational Education accounts to the Regular Day School account. The motion passed 4-0 by roll call vote. The meeting adjourned at 5:36 PM.

• Approved $62,811.30 school budget transfer from Special Education and Vocational Education to Regular Day School (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on July 12, 2023, to sign documents, take action on a Request for Determination of Applicability, discuss enforcement cases, and hold public hearings. Key items include an amendment request for 9 Pebble Lane and a Notice of Intent from Bay Farm Association Trust for invasive vegetation maintenance in a pond.

• Extension for Orders of Conditions at 9 Pebble Lane
• Certificate of Compliance at 11 Brook Street
• Order of Conditions and Enforcement Order at 375 Elm Street
• Order of Conditions for Lake Street Culvert
• Public hearing: Bay Farm Association Trust Notice of Intent for invasive vegetation maintenance in a pond

The Kingston Conservation Commission issued one-day fines for sediment-laden water discharge into Smelt Brook at 1 Royson Drive and for pumping water directly into a wetland at 19 Kingston Street. The Commission also issued an Enforcement Order for a property at Curtis Avenue requiring a wetland delineation by August 12, 2023, and approved several other items including a Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for invasive plant management at Muddy Pond.

• Issued one-day fine for sediment release into Smelt Brook at 1 Royson Drive (5-0)
• Issued one-day fine for pumping water into wetland at 19 Kingston Street (5-0)
• Issued Enforcement Order for Curtis Avenue property to hire delineator by Aug 12, 2023
• Approved Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for Native Land Conservancy invasive plant work (5-0)
• Approved amended Order of Conditions for 9 Pebble Lane (5-0)
• Continued Bay Farm Association Trust hearing to July 26, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved June 14, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-1)
• Signed Certificate of Compliance for 11 Brook Street

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging will hold its regular meeting at the Senior Center, 30 Evergreen Street, to receive staff reports on the budget, director’s activities, and chairman’s updates. The public may attend in person or via Zoom, and the meeting will be broadcast on PACTV.

The Kingston Council on Aging advisory board discussed renaming the building, received Open Meeting Law training guidance, and supported a shift from the Thursday lunch program to a cafe-style meal service. The board also nominated Mary Hayes for a 3-year term and tabled discussion on the suggestion box until the next meeting.

• Accepted June Secretary's report (all in favor)
• Nominated Mary Hayes to the board for a 3-year term (all in favor)
• Supported cafe-style meal service idea (discussed, no formal vote)
• Tabled suggestion box discussion until next meeting
• Moved Associate Member Initiative to next meeting

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to enter an executive session. The purpose is to discuss strategy regarding collective bargaining or litigation.

• Executive session regarding collective bargaining or litigation strategy

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss appointments, budget transfers, and project updates. Key items include a request to use ARPA funds for HVAC replacement at the Pembroke Street Fire Station and a presentation on the proposed redevelopment of the former Sacred Heart High School property. The board will also hear an update from the Library Director and consider event requests and administrative appointments.

• Request to use ARPA Funds for the Replacement of Rooftop HVAC Units at the Pembroke Street Fire Station
• Presentation on the Proposed of Redevelopment of the Former Sacred Heart High School Property
• Request from Hope Floats to hold their Ninth Annual Memory Walk on Saturday, September 30, 2023
• FY23 Budget Line-Item Transfers
• Reappointment of Wiring Inspector and appointment of Local Inspector for Building Department

The Board of Selectmen approved using $45,045 in ARPA funds to replace two rooftop HVAC units at the Pembroke Street Fire Station, with a 5-0 vote. They also approved Hope Floats' 9th Annual Memory Walk on September 30, contingent on police scheduling and MassDOT permits. A presentation on the proposed Sacred Heart High School redevelopment was given, but no decisions were made. The board also approved $70,500 in budget line-item transfers and several appointments.

• Approved $45,045 ARPA funds for two HVAC units at Pembroke Street Fire Station (5-0)
• Approved Hope Floats 9th Annual Memory Walk on Sept 30, contingent on police and MassDOT permits (5-0)
• Approved $70,500 in FY23 budget line-item transfers (5-0)
• Reappointed Linus Varley as Wiring Inspector Alternate until June 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Appointed Thomas Millias as temporary Local Inspector for Building Department (5-0)
• Appointed Cormac Dormady as seasonal recreation staff counselor (5-0)
• Approved open session minutes from Feb 14 to June 20, 2023, as amended (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission is attending a Board of Selectmen meeting. The purpose is to hear about potential development on the Sacred Heart property located on Bishops Highway.

• Potential development on Sacred Heart property on Bishops Highway

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss engineering updates, departmental reports, and water projects. Key topics include engineering updates from Resilient CE regarding the Grassy Hole/I-86 Treatment Plant, the Main St Water Main Project, Phase 1, and the Sacred Heart Property in Zone II. The board will also review the water superintendent's departmental updates, including the FY23 Shut Off Program which brought in $26,038.50.

• Engineering updates on Grassy Hole/I-86 Treatment Plant and Main St Water Main Project, Phase 1 by Resilient CE
• Review of Thorndike Development's statements on irrigation and water resource district for Sacred Heart Property
• Report on the FY23 Shut Off Program bringing in $26,038.50
• Notice from Zoning Board of Appeals regarding abutter notification for Amazon.com Services LLC
• Vote to approve meeting minutes from June 6 and June 20, 2023

The Board awarded a contract to Northstar Electrical for VFD replacement at the I-86 well. Members discussed contractor liability for stormwater pond washouts and expressed opposition to impervious coverage increases for the Thorndike development.

• Approved $7,300 contract to Northstar Electrical for VFD replacement (2-0-0)
• Approved June 6, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-0)
• Tabled June 20, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health is meeting to review bills and minutes, hear reports from the Health Agent and Healthy Kingston, and discuss potential changes to tobacco regulations, authorizing pool inspections and budget adjustments, and well signage. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Review bills dated June 29, 2023
• Acceptance of meeting minutes of June 26, 2023
• Discussion of tobacco regulations
• Discussion of authorizing Health Agent to do pool inspections and budget adjustments
• Discussion of well signage

The Kingston Board of Health approved a letter warning all tobacco license holders that violations will be fined, and approved making irrigation well signage available in English and Portuguese. They also accepted the June 26 minutes and approved septic plans for 13 properties. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved tobacco warning letter for all license holders (5-0)
• Approved irrigation well signage in English and Portuguese (5-0)
• Accepted June 26, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved septic plans for 13 properties
• Adjourned at 6:25 p.m. (5-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to approve minutes from ten prior meetings and discuss several new business items, including a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, staffing, an update from the superintendent, and the resignation and replacement of a sewer commissioner. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Approval of meeting minutes from January 17, February 7, 21, 28, March 21, April 4, 10, 18, 21, and 29, 2023
• Discussion of plant upgrade
• Discussion of Davis Property
• Discussion of staff
• Sewer commissioner resignation and replacement

The Board of Sewer Commissioners accepted the resignation of Thomas W. Taylor, effective July 1, 2023, and voted to notify the Board of Selectmen to begin the replacement process. All other agenda items (plant upgrade, Davis property, staff, superintendent update) were postponed or had no updates.

• Accepted resignation of Thomas W. Taylor as Sewer Commissioner, effective July 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Voted to notify Board of Selectmen of resignation and proceed with replacement process (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on June 28, 2023, at 6:30 PM in Room 200 of the Town House and via Zoom. The agenda includes signing documents, action items, enforcement matters, and three public hearings on notices of intent for projects affecting wetlands and waterways. The commission will also approve minutes from the May 10 meeting.

• Public hearing: 375 Elm St NOI for restoration of altered vegetation and pool installation in buffer zone of certified vernal pool
• Public hearing: Bay Farm Association Trust NOI for invasive vegetation maintenance in a pond
• Public hearing: Lake St Culvert Replacement & Stormwater Improvements NOI
• Action item: 11 Brook St RCOC
• Enforcement: 2R/6 Main St, 1 Royson Dr, Curtis Ave

The Kingston Conservation Commission issued an Enforcement Order and Order of Conditions for a pool installation and vegetation restoration at 375 Elm Street, and an Order of Conditions for the Lake Street culvert replacement. It also fined the owner of 1 Royson Drive $300 for unresolved erosion control issues, with further daily fines if not fixed by July 3rd. A Certificate of Compliance was approved for 11 Brook Street pending installation of conservation posts, and a two-year extension was granted for 9 Pebble Lane.

• Issued Enforcement Order for 375 Elm Street restoration, requiring hand work and completion by Nov 2023 (6-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for pool at 375 Elm Street with conditions on chemicals and materials (6-0)
• Issued $300 fine for 1 Royson Drive erosion issues, with $300/day fines if not fixed by July 3 (5-0)
• Approved Certificate of Compliance for 11 Brook Street pending installation of 4 conservation posts (4-0)
• Granted two-year extension of Order of Conditions for 9 Pebble Lane (5-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for Lake Street culvert replacement, including coal ash disposal and wildlife protections (6-0)
• Removed Letter of Map Revision requirement from Lake Street culvert order (6-0)
• Continued Bay Farm Association Trust NOI hearing to July 12, 2023 (6-0)

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and potentially act on requests to move money between accounts. The agenda focuses on two specific types of financial transfers.

• Reserve Fund Transfer Request
• Line Item Transfer Request

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to authorize payments for bills and review permit progress. The board is deciding on the abatement of uncollected taxes and June motor vehicle abatements.

• Review and authorization of uncollectible excise tax abatements
• Review and authorization of June motor vehicle abatements
• Review and authorization of Motor Vehicle Commitment 3 for FY2023
• Review of bills for payment authorization

The Board of Assessors approved routine payments, including travel reimbursement and invoices for assessing services. They discussed the need for additional consultants to complete permit inspections and authorized the schedule of uncollectible excise taxes, June motor vehicle abatements, and Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 3. No executive session was held.

• Approved bills totaling $2,495.88 (2-0)
• Approved May 23, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0)
• Agreed to hire additional consultants for permit inspections
• Authorized Schedule of Uncollectible Excise Taxes (2-0)
• Signed June motor vehicle abatements (2-0)
• Authorized Motor Vehicle Excise Tax Commitment 3 (2-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting in executive session to discuss pending Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases. The board will also review minutes from its May 23, 2023 executive session. This is a routine, procedural meeting focused on ongoing tax appeals.

• Executive session to discuss pending Appellate Tax Board (ATB) cases
• Review of May 23, 2023 executive session minutes

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will convene on June 26, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Town House Room 202 or via Zoom to review June 2023 bills, approve meeting minutes from June 5, and hear reports from the health agent and Healthy Kingston update. The board will also discuss irrigation well signage, late fee assessments, the status of the public health nurse, and the town physician role.

• Review of June 2023 bills
• Approval of June 5, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion on irrigation wells signage
• Assessment of late fees

The Board of Health established a new late fee policy for business permit renewals starting in 2024. The board also reviewed septic plan approvals and discussed the recruitment of a Public Health Nurse and a Town Physician.

• Approved 20% late fee for permit renewals starting January 1, 2024, with a 30-day payment window to avoid license loss (4-0-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes from June 5, 2023 (4-0-0)
• Approved septic plans for 15 properties

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will convene on June 26 at 7:00 PM in Town House Room 200 and via Zoom. The posted agenda contains only procedural items: call to order, routine discussions, new/old business, meeting minutes, and scheduling of the next meeting. No decisions, ordinances, or public hearings are listed.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a special permit application for two new 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St., including waivers and a variance. The board will also consider an informal request from Jacob Barnes regarding whether proposed changes to a prior case are minor or major. The meeting is largely procedural, with minutes approval and adjournment also on the agenda.

• Public hearing for special permit, waivers, and variance for two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St.
• Informal hearing for Jacob Barnes, 11 Standish Ave. West, to determine minor or major modification to ZBA Case #1603 (March 2016)
• Meeting minutes approval
• Remote participation via Zoom available

The Board determined that proposed changes to a 2016 project at 11 Standish Ave. West constitute a minor modification. A public hearing for a multi-unit apartment project at 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. was continued to August 2, 2023, to resolve questions regarding a variance.

• Ruled proposed changes at 11 Standish Ave. West a minor modification (6-0-0)
• Continued public hearing for 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. to August 2, 2023 (5-0-0)

General

The Board of Water Commissioners will review engineering updates and the status of the Main St Water Main Project. The board will also consider a Zoning Board of Appeals request regarding a property at 195 Summer St.

• Review of ARPA application for Plymouth County funding for Main St Water Main Project
• Zoning Board of Appeals request for review: 195 Summer St variance for single family to two family rental
• Engineering updates on 1-86 Well Pump Cleaning by Maher Services
• Discussion on water moratorium language updates
• Status update on 1-86/ Grassy Hole Treatment Plant heater and SCADA harness assembly

The Board of Water Commissioners agreed to send comments to the Zoning Board of Appeals stating no opposition to converting a single-family home at 195 Summer St into a two-family rental, provided there is no additional water service, no violation of town by-laws, and no future conversion to condominiums. The board also discussed the status of the 1-86 well pump cleaning, which is expected to begin by end of July, and noted the water moratorium applies to all new service connections. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was adjourned unanimously (2-0-0).

• Agreed to send ZBA comments supporting 195 Summer St two-family rental with conditions (no additional water service, no by-law violations, no future condos)
• Tabled approval of June 6, 2023 meeting minutes
• Signed department bill schedules
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (2-0-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will meet to determine the date for a Special Town Meeting and consider several appointments. The body will also review requests for town property use and a one-day liquor license.

• Set Special Town Meeting Date
• Temporary road closure request for Rocky Nook Avenue on July 4, 2023
• One day liquor license request from Upland Ale Co dba Brewery 44 for Gray's Beach Music Events
• Request from Plymouth Country Retirement Board for a 5% Cost of Living Adjustment effective July 1, 2025
• Appointment of Recreation Program Administrator and Assistant Town Treasurer

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to support a one-time 5% cost-of-living adjustment for Plymouth County Retirement Association employees, retroactive to July 1, 2022. They also approved a mediation agreement regarding a 40B housing project on May Avenue and set October 24, 2023, as the date for the Special Fall Town Meeting. Several local events, including a July 4 road closure and agricultural fair, were approved with specific conditions.

• Approved 5% one-time COLA for Plymouth County Retirement Association (4-0)
• Approved mediation agreement for May Avenue 40B project (5-0)
• Set Special Fall Town Meeting for Oct 24, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved July 4 road closures in Rocky Nook area with fireworks enforcement (4-0)
• Approved Agricultural Commission use of Town House lawn for Sept 10 fair (4-0)
• Approved Agricultural Commission produce sharing program at Town House gazebo (4-0)
• Approved one-day liquor licenses for Brewery 44 at Gray's Beach events (4-0)
• Appointed Brandi Gordon as Recreation Program Administrator (4-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to sign new contracts totaling $53,611.10 for engineering and ecological services, review five enforcement cases, and hold two public hearings on a culvert replacement and a wetlands withdrawal request.

• $24,937.21 Strong Tree Engineering - Task 1 Design and Task 7 Wetland Permitting
• $12,655.40 Beals & Thomas - Jones River Ecological Evaluation
• $7,923.49 Beals & Thomas - Sampson's Brook Headwaters Restoration
• Public hearing on Lake Street Culvert Replacement & Stormwater Improvements
• Public hearing on Cushman Farms Withdrawal Request

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved several determinations and a certificate of compliance, including for 27A Rocky Nook Avenue and Bay Farm Conservation Area. It also voted to extend an ORAD for 38 Crescent Street by two years and continued the Lake Street culvert replacement hearing to June 28. All votes were unanimous except the ORAD extension, which passed 4-2.

• Issued Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 27A Rocky Nook Avenue (6-0)
• Issued Certificate of Compliance for 27A Rocky Nook Avenue (6-0)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for Bay Farm Conservation Area (6-0)
• Issued Negative 3 Determination of Applicability for 58 Off Boundary Street (6-0)
• Recommended applicant file amendment hearing for 9 Pebble Lane (6-0)
• Extended ORAD for 38 Crescent Street by two years (4-2)
• Approved minutes for April 12 and April 26, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued Lake Street culvert replacement hearing to June 28 (6-0)

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging is holding its regular monthly meeting, primarily covering routine reports and housekeeping items. The board will hear the Director's budget status through May 31, address the retirement of a board member and an application for an open position, and elect officers. No major policy decisions or public hearings are on the agenda.

• Director's report on budget status through May 31 (11 months)
• Retirement of a board member
• Application for open board positions by a former board member
• Election of officers

The Kingston Council on Aging advisory board approved the May secretary's report, re-elected officers (Joe as Chairman, Austin as Vice Chair, Caty as Secretary), and noted the approved Assistant Director position to be advertised. The board discussed the suggestion box, succession planning, and member resignations, but no formal votes were taken on those items.

• Approved May Secretary's report (all in favor)
• Re-elected Joe as Chairman (all in favor)
• Re-elected Austin as Vice Chairman (all in favor)
• Re-elected Caty as Secretary (all in favor)
• Noted Assistant Director position approved and to be advertised

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will hold its regular meeting to reorganize and appoint new members to the Community Preservation Committee, review administrative actions including land-use plans and a land swap, and discuss zoning workshop items for the fall town meeting. The board will also approve meeting minutes and receive a town planner report on ongoing projects.

• Reorganization and appointment to Community Preservation Committee
• Appointment of STS Realty representative at 1 Tremont Street
• Approval of updated consultant list
• Land swap between 42 West Street and 6 Quail Run
• Zoning workshop to discuss items for Fall Town Meeting

The Kingston Planning Board approved modifications to the site plan for the Tremont and Summer Street apartment project, including splitting a 12-unit building into two 6-unit buildings and adding signage and privacy screening. The board also voted to declare the Norrie Village subdivision application incomplete, endorsed a 12.5-foot side yard setback for Greystone Village, and approved a land swap at West Street and Quail Run. No substantive decisions were made regarding Captain Jones Way speed concerns, which were referred to the developer and HOA.

• Approved site plan changes for Tremont/Summer Street apartments (5-0)
• Declared Norrie Village Form B application incomplete, no action (5-0)
• Approved Greystone Village RODEO with 12.5-ft side yard setback (5-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for 42 West Street and 6 Quail Run land swap (4-0-1, Bouchard abstained)
• Re-elected Bouchard as Chair, Gavigan as Vice Chair, Cullen as Clerk (5-0)
• Nominated Joanne Cullen for Community Preservation Committee seat (5-0)
• Approved April 10, 2023 minutes (4-0-1)
• Approved May 8, 2023 minutes (3-0-2)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will meet to discuss and potentially approve a draft bylaw for FY2024 wages and personnel policies, review and approve past meeting minutes, and address HR-related emails about employee benefits and hourly pay increases. The board will also set the agenda for the next meeting.

• Review and approve draft FY2024 Wage and Personnel Bylaw
• Approve minutes for February 13, March 13, March 20, and April 10, 2023 meetings
• Discuss release of executive session meeting minutes
• Email from Tina Betti regarding KTEU benefit changes
• Email from Paul Gallagher about increases for hourly-paid positions in Schedule C-1

The Wage and Personnel Board approved the draft FY2024 Wage and Personnel Bylaw for submission to the Town Clerk's office. The Board also reviewed KTEU contract changes regarding bereavement leave, longevity compensation, and vacation accrual, requesting proposed language for the Bylaw. Additionally, the Board scheduled a future meeting to discuss hourly rate increases for specific positions and approved several past meeting minutes.

• Approved draft FY2024 Wage and Personnel Bylaw for submission to Town Clerk
• Discussed KTEU benefit changes; requested proposed Bylaw language
• Scheduled August 21 meeting to discuss hourly rates for Warden, Clerk, Inspector, Clerk General
• Approved open session minutes for Feb 13, Mar 13, Mar 20, and Apr 10, 2023
• Agreed to list dates for release of executive session minutes in next agenda

General

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to enter an executive session regarding personnel negotiations. The session focuses on strategy and contract negotiations for the Police Chief.

• Contract negotiations with the Police Chief

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss town business, including an aquaculture license public hearing and proposals from the Agricultural Commission regarding the Town Green and a produce sharing program. The agenda also features board openings, appointments, and the acceptance of a full-time CDL/Laborer position for Streets, Trees, and Parks.

• Public Hearing for Aquaculture License
• Request from Agricultural Commission to use Town Green and Road closure
• Proposal by Agricultural Commission to Use Town House Gazebo for Produce Sharing Program
• Presentation/Discussion of possibly adding new Sugar Kelp/Shellfish Grant
• Acceptance of Full Time CDL/Laborer Position with Streets, Trees, and Parks

The Board of Selectmen approved an aquaculture lease for William Van Duzer and appointed a new CDL/Laborer for the Streets, Trees, and Parks Department. A proposal for a sugar kelp grant was discussed but deferred for further review with the Harbormaster.

• Approved Aquaculture Lease #1 for William Van Duzer (5-0-0)
• Appointed Theodore Cazeault as CDL/Laborer (5-0-0)
• Approved open session meeting minutes from March 28, 2023 (5-0-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss new business including a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, an update from the superintendent, and a board reorganization. The commission will also review meeting minutes from May 9th, May 18th, and May 22nd, as well as handle commitments numbered 23-51, 23-53, and 23-54.

• Plant Upgrade discussion
• Davis Property discussion
• Superintendent update
• Board reorganization
• Commitments 23-51, 23-53, and 23-54

The Board of Sewer Commissioners held elections for its leadership positions. The board also reviewed sewer capacity and fee inquiries for several local properties.

• Elected Elaine Fiore as Sewer Commissioner Chair (Unanimous)
• Elected William Watson as Sewer Commissioner Vice Chair (Unanimous)
• Determined no additional betterment/connection fees are required for a 4th bedroom at 35 Bay Farm Rd

General

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, discuss engineering updates including a well cleaning contract with Maher Services, and review a Mass DEP moratorium update. They will also consider approving the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report and provide comments on a Planning Board request for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St.

• Vote to approve minutes of May 9 and May 23, 2023
• Contract update with Maher Services for well cleaning at Grassy Hole I-86
• Approve the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report
• Planning Board request for comments re: 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St (due June 8)
• Water shut off program: first letters sent with shut off date of June 30, 2023

The Board of Water Commissioners approved a $412 cost increase for a replacement pump motor at Grassy Hole I-86, and unanimously authorized Superintendent Veracka to negotiate with the Kelleher Estate for land acquisition. They also approved the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report and minutes from May 9 and May 23 meetings. The board discussed a water connection moratorium, noting Mass DEP confirmed municipal authority to declare one without state approval.

• Approved $412 replacement pump motor cost plus freight (3-0)
• Authorized Superintendent to negotiate with Kelleher Estate for land acquisition (3-0)
• Approved 2022 Consumer Confidence Report (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 9, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 23, 2023 (2-0-1, Kostka abstained)
• Signed water quality certificate for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will meet on June 5 at 6:00 PM in Room 200 of the Town House and via Zoom to decide on non-commercial farm-animal regulations and to approve the posting for a Public Health Nurse position. The board will also review bills, hear a variance request at 1 Sequoia Drive, and discuss supplies, sunblock dispensers, and the Healthy Kingston Kids program.

• Continuation of the Public Hearing on Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals Regulations and vote
• Vote to approve the posting for Public Health Nurse position
• West End Drilling - 1 Sequoia Drive variance request
• Supplies for Public Health Nurse - Janet Wade
• Sunblock Dispensers - Dennis Randall

The Kingston Board of Health closed the public hearing and approved the Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals regulations with amendments. The board voted to strike sections #3 and #4 from Part 2 Section B to be discussed at a later date, and amended Parts 1 and 2 to specify Animal Control Officer actions for loose livestock. A variance for an irrigation well at 1 Sequoia Dr. was approved with signage requirements.

• Closed public hearing on non-commercial farm animal regulations (5-0)
• Approved farm animal regulations with amendments, striking Part 2 Section B #3 and #4 for later discussion (5-0)
• Amended regulations to specify Animal Control Officer actions for loose livestock complaints (5-0)
• Approved variance for irrigation well at 1 Sequoia Dr. with 'not for human consumption' signage (5-0)
• Accepted meeting minutes of May 15, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved reposting Public Health Nurse position with previous job description (5-0)
• Scheduled next meetings for June 26, July 10, and July 24, 2023 (5-0)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board is meeting to conduct general discussion and updates, with no specific action items listed. The agenda is largely procedural, covering call to order, discussions, new/old business, and meeting minutes.

• General Discussion and Updates
• New/Old Business
• Meeting Minutes
• Next Regular Meeting

General

The Kingston Board of Selectmen is meeting to recess into executive session to discuss strategy related to collective bargaining or litigation, and to approve or release executive session minutes. The agenda contains no other substantive items.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining or litigation strategy
• Approve and/or release executive session meeting minutes

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will hold an executive session to review and sign minutes from a prior meeting, discuss tax exemption applications not open to the public, and receive an overview of pending Appellate Tax Board cases. The meeting is scheduled for May 23, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Room 203 at 26 Evergreen St.

• Review and sign minutes from May 2, 2023 executive session
• Discuss tax exemption applications under M.G.L. c30A §21(a)(7) and M.G.L. c59 §60
• Overview of pending Appellate Tax Board cases

The Board of Assessors met in executive session and approved the minutes from May 2, 2023. No action was taken on exemption application #160 because it was not filed timely, and a late application notice was mailed. The board discussed pending Appellate Tax Board cases and requested additional documentation for later review. The meeting was adjourned without any substantive decisions.

• Approved May 2, 2023 executive session minutes (3-0)
• No action on exemption application #160; late notice signed and mailed
• Requested additional documentation for Appellate Tax Board cases

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will convene at 6:00 PM on May 23 at the Water Dept Office (22 Elm St) and via Zoom to conduct routine business. The only substantive item is a meeting with the Board of Selectmen to hear a presentation by Thorndike seeking redevelopment of the Former Sacred Heart High School Property.

• Meeting with Board of Selectmen to hear Thorndike presentation on redevelopment of Former Sacred Heart High School Property

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve department bill schedules, review the Consumer Confidence Report for a vote, and receive updates on water restrictions, hydrant flushing, and a water moratorium. The board will also hear a bid update for well cleaning and a water quality certificate for a property at 163 Summer/1 Tremont St.

• Approval of Consumer Confidence Report for review and vote
• Bid Update - Well Cleaning
• Water Quality Certificate - 163 Summer/1 Tremont St
• Water Restriction update
• Hydrant Flushing update

The Board unanimously awarded the base bid and added alternate for the I-86 Well Cleaning to Maher Services for a total of $38,406. The Board also unanimously instituted the annual calendar-year-based voluntary water restriction. The Consumer Confidence Report was reviewed but approval was deferred to the next meeting to meet the July 1 mailing deadline.

• Awarded I-86 well cleaning base bid and alternate to Maher Services for $38,406 (2-0)
• Instituted calendar-year water restriction: even/odd house days, watering before 9am and after 5pm (2-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 4:44pm (2-0)

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to authorize department bills, review meeting minutes from May 2, and approve May tax abatements. The board will also discuss permit progress and authorize a notice of betterment commitment. An executive session will be held to review FY23 exemption/abatement applications and Appellate Tax Board overviews.

• Review and authorize department bills
• Review and authorize May abatements
• Review and authorize notice of betterment commitment
• Discussion of permit progress
• Review meeting minutes from May 2, 2023

The Board of Assessors approved routine payments, meeting minutes, and May abatements. They also reviewed inspection progress and signed a betterment payoff. No major policy decisions were made.

• Approved travel reimbursement for Maureen Clarke ($65.63)
• Approved MAAO recertification fee for Maureen Clarke ($50.00)
• Approved May 2, 2023 open meeting minutes (3-0)
• Reviewed and signed May abatements
• Signed betterment payoff for 10R Blair Dr (FY2023)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will hold a routine meeting with no substantive decisions. Announcements include volunteer opportunities, upcoming events, and openings on local boards. The agenda consists primarily of procedural items, appointments, and reports with no major votes or contracts.

• Proclamation for National Public Works Week
• Consideration of Amendment to Assistant Town Administrator's Contract
• Appointment of Wastewater Assistant Chief Operator
• Appointment of Plymouth County Advisory Board Member
• Appointment to Recycling Committee

The Board of Selectmen approved an amendment to the Assistant Town Administrator's contract, raising the FY24 salary to $110,000, with Chairman Emberg voting against. They also approved a Class II license for CarTec Collision, appointed Carl Ingeme as Wastewater Assistant Chief Operator, and made several other appointments. The board voted to work with the Silver Lake Regional School Committee on improving the Lake Street and Station Street intersection.

• Approved Assistant Town Administrator salary amendment to $110,000 for FY24 (4-1)
• Approved Motor Vehicle Class II License for CarTec Collision (5-0)
• Appointed Carl Ingeme as Wastewater Assistant Chief Operator (5-0)
• Appointed Eric Crone as liaison for Lake Street/Station Street intersection project (5-0)
• Voted to work with Silver Lake Regional School Committee on intersection improvements (5-0)
• Appointed Kimberley Emberg to Plymouth County Advisory Board (5-0)
• Appointed Vanessa Verkade to Recycling Committee (5-0)
• Accepted donations totaling $150 for Meals on Wheels and Council on Aging (5-0)

General

The Kingston Sewer Commission is holding a regular meeting on May 18, 2023, at 8:30 AM. The agenda contains only one new business item under 'Staff' and is otherwise procedural, with no specific decisions or discussions listed.

• New Business: Staff

The Board of Sewer Commissioners voted to recommend a current employee for the vacant Wastewater Assistant Superintendent position. The board also discussed a vacant laborer position but decided to delay filling it.

• Recommended Carl Ingeme for Wastewater Assistant Superintendent (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings on two projects: a request to build two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St., and a variance for Dunkin Donuts at 121 Main St. to install oversized signage. The board will also review and approve previous meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. for two new 6-unit apartment buildings
• Variance request for Dunkin Donuts at 121 Main St. to install oversized signage
• Informal request by Maggie Ann Ewing for ZBA case #20-01 opinion
• Approval of previous meeting minutes

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a variance for Dunkin' Donuts at 121 Main St. to allow two signs totaling no more than 16 sq ft (5-0). The board continued the public hearing for the proposed 12-unit apartment project at 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. to June 7, 2023, to allow for a full five-member board and additional conditions. The board also discussed a clerical error in a 2020 decision for 41 East Ave. but took no final action, requesting a draft decision for review.

• Approved sign variance for Dunkin' Donuts, 121 Main St. (5-0)
• Continued hearing for 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. apartment project to June 7, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved minutes of May 3, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved minutes of April 5, 2023 (5-0)

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will convene on May 15 at 6:00 PM in Town House Room 203 (and via Zoom) to review bills, approve minutes, and hear administrative and public health updates. The meeting includes discussions on staffing assignments, a new Health Agent orientation, and supplies for the Public Health Nurse.

• Review of bills dated May 9, 2023
• Orientation of new Health Agent
• Discussion pertaining to Public Health Nurse position
• Supplies for Public Health Nurse
• June 5 continuation of Public Hearing on Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals and vote

The Kingston Board of Health approved septic plans for 14 properties and signed a letter requesting $2,246.45 in vaccine reimbursement funds from the Town's General Fund. The board also discussed resurrecting the Healthy Kingston Kids program and planning orientation for the new Health Agent. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved septic plans for 14 properties (5-0)
• Signed letter requesting $2,246.45 vaccine reimbursement funds (5-0)
• Accepted May 1, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review several property requests and enforcement issues. The body is holding a public hearing regarding a Notice of Intent for test borings on specific roads and parcels.

• Public hearing: Cushman Farms LLC NOI for test borings along Thomas Street ROW, Cushman Drive ROW, and adjacent parcels
• Action item: 27a Rocky Nook Ave. COC request
• Action item: 58 Off Boundary St. RDA
• Enforcement reviews for 2R/6 Main Street, 1 Royson Drive (stormwater issue), and Curtis Avenue
• Signing of documents for 19 Kingston St. and 21 Kennedy Rd.

The Kingston Conservation Commission continued the public hearing for Cushman Farms LLC's Notice of Intent for exploratory test pits and borings to June 14, 2023, after extensive discussion about protecting eastern box turtles. The commission also signed previously approved documents, continued a Certificate of Compliance request for 27a Rocky Nook Avenue, and discussed enforcement updates. Meeting minutes for March 22 and April 5 were approved.

• Continued Cushman Farms LLC hearing to June 14 (7-0)
• Signed Determination of Applicability for 21 Kennedy Street and Orders of Conditions for 19 Kingston Street
• Signed two bills from Beals and Thomas for restoration planning and habitat assessment
• Continued Certificate of Compliance request for 27a Rocky Nook Avenue to June 14
• Continued RDA discussion for 58 Off Boundary Street
• Approved minutes for March 22 and April 5, 2023 (7-0, Megan abstained on March 22)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will reorganize by electing a chair and vice chair, then vote on April 25 meeting minutes. They will hear requests for water quality certificates for properties at 163 Summer St and 1 Tremont St, receive updates on the Jones Rives/Elm St drainage project and engineering, and discuss a moratorium update from Town Counsel. The board will also consider comments on the preliminary subdivision plan 'Norrie Village' in Kingston/Plympton, due to the Planning Board by May 18.

• Reorganization: nominations and vote for Chair and Vice Chair
• Water quality certificate requests for 163 Summer St and 1 Tremont St
• Update on moratorium language from Town Counsel
• Comments on preliminary subdivision plan 'Norrie Village' (Kingston/Plympton)
• Vote to approve minutes of April 25, 2023

The Board approved a Water Quality Certificate for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St, contingent on a sleeved sewer crossing being noted on the plans. The Board also reorganized, re-electing Chairman Loring and Vice Chairman Erlandsen, and approved the April 25 minutes. No other formal decisions were made; other items were discussed or deferred.

• Approved Water Quality Certificate for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St, contingent on sleeved sewer crossing (3-0)
• Re-elected Chairman Loring and Vice Chairman Erlandsen (3-0)
• Approved minutes of April 25, 2023 (3-0)

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will review budget reports through April 30 and discuss potential problems regarding food services funding for FY24. The board will also address facility items including the patio room and outdoor gardens.

• Budget for food services FY24 and potential problems
• Budget through April 30
• By-laws update
• Patio room and outdoor gardens
• Advisory Board elections for June 13 meeting

The Board approved the appointment of Austin Sennett as the official liaison between the KCOA and Triad. The board also accepted the April Secretary's report. Other discussions focused on lunch program budget sustainability and the search for an Assistant Director of Elder Affairs.

• Approved Austin Sennett as official liaison to Triad (unanimous)
• Accepted April Secretary's report (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss the evaluation of the Town Administrator and review several personnel appointments. The board is also tasked with reviewing an agreement extension for the South Shore Recycling Cooperative.

• Review and approval of South Shore Recycling Cooperative Agreement Extension
• Appointment to Affordable Housing Trust
• Appointment of Wiring Inspector Alternate
• Appointment of Energy Manager and Public Safety Dispatcher
• Seasonal employee appointments for Recreation Department

The Board of Selectmen approved the annual evaluation of Town Administrator Keith Hickey and authorized a $3,000 bonus based on his performance. They also made several appointments, including Sheila Vaughn to the Affordable Housing Trust, Linus Varley as Wiring Inspector Alternate, and new hires for Energy Manager and Public Safety Dispatcher. The board approved an extension of the South Shore Recycling Cooperative agreement and appointed 17 seasonal recreation staff.

• Approved annual evaluation of Town Administrator (5-0)
• Authorized $3,000 bonus for Town Administrator (5-0)
• Appointed Sheila Vaughn to Affordable Housing Trust (5-0)
• Appointed Linus Varley as Wiring Inspector Alternate (5-0)
• Approved South Shore Recycling Cooperative Agreement Extension (5-0)
• Appointed Michael Herrick as Public Safety Dispatcher (5-0)
• Appointed Melissa Russel as Energy Manager (5-0)
• Appointed 17 seasonal recreation staff (5-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission is meeting to hold appointments with CDM Smith and Methuen Construction. The board will discuss a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, and a reorganization.

• Appointments with CDM Smith and Methuen Construction
• Plant Upgrade discussion
• Davis Property discussion
• Reorganization discussion

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved funding for the replacement of diffusers in SBR tanks 1 and 2. The board also discussed a failed Town Meeting article regarding leaching fields at the Davis Property and the posting of an Assistant Superintendent position.

• Authorized up to $142,000.00 for Project Change Order 091 (Unanimous)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will meet on May 8, 2023, to discuss a pending subdivision application for Pine Street, review the incomplete filing of Form B-Norrie Village, and vote on authorizing Valerie Massard as a signatory for Planning Department bills. The board will also receive updates on ongoing projects including Greystone Village, Sylvia Pond Estates, and Dunkin' Donuts, as well as the Complete Streets and OCPD Corridor Study.

• Review incomplete filing of Form B-Norrie Village (tentatively scheduled for May 22)
• Vote on Valerie Massard as authorized signatory for Planning Department bills
• Appointment for Mark Casey (South Shore Consulting Inc.) regarding Pine Street subdivision
• Updates on Greystone Village, Sylvia Pond Estates, and Dunkin' Donuts projects
• Town Planner report on Complete Streets and OCPD Corridor Study

The Kingston Planning Board voted 3-0 to declare the Norrie Village filing incomplete because the filing fee was not paid. The board also voted 3-0 to authorize Town Planner Valerie Massard as a signatory for invoices and bills, with a condition to renew annually. No other formal decisions were made; the board discussed a conceptual subdivision on Pine Street and heard the Town Planner's report.

• Declared Norrie Village filing incomplete due to unpaid fee (3-0)
• Authorized Town Planner Valerie Massard as signatory for invoices (3-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits for new housing and a signage variance. The board will also address an informal request regarding a previous ZBA case.

• Public hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. to construct two new 6-unit apartment buildings
• Variance request from Spencer Kingston Realty LLC for signage at Dunkin Donuts, 121 Main St.
• Informal request from Maggie Ann Ewing of 41 East Avenue regarding ZBA case #20-01

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals held a brief procedural meeting, continuing all three scheduled items to May 17, 2023. No substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were made. The board adjourned at 7:03 PM.

• Continued public hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. to May 17, 2023
• Continued Dunkin Donuts signage variance request at 121 Main St. to May 17, 2023
• Continued informal request by Maggie Ann Ewing of 41 East Avenue to May 17, 2023

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review and sign minutes from a previous executive session. The board will also discuss tax exemption applications, which are not public record.

• Review and signing of April 10, 2023 executive session minutes
• Discussion of exemption applications pursuant to M.G.L. c30A, section 21 (a) (7) and M.G.L. c59, section 60

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors is meeting to handle routine administrative matters, including acknowledging a new board member, reviewing and signing minutes from the previous meeting, authorizing department bills, and discussing inspection progress. The board will also set its future meeting schedule and then enter executive session.

• Acknowledge new board member Stephen Dunn
• Review and sign April 10, 2023 meeting minutes
• Review and authorize department bills
• Overview and discussion of inspection progress
• Enter executive session at end of open session

Board of Health

The Board of Health will hold a public hearing regarding regulations for keeping non-commercial farm animals. The board will also discuss a plastic bag ban extension and department reorganization.

• Public hearing on regulations for 'Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals'
• Discussion of a 6-month extension for Key Nutrition plastic bag ban
• Discussion of plastic bag ban reusable bags handout
• Discussion of department reorganization
• Shared Excellence Grant status update

The Kingston Board of Health voted unanimously to grant Key Nutrition a 6-month extension on the plastic bag ban. The board also reorganized, re-electing Joe Casna as Chairman and Bill Kavol as Vice Chairman. A public hearing on proposed regulations for keeping non-commercial farm animals was continued to June 5, 2023, with no vote taken.

• Granted Key Nutrition 6-month plastic bag ban extension (5-0)
• Reorganized board, re-elected Joe Casna as Chairman (5-0)
• Re-elected Bill Kavol as Vice Chairman (5-0)
• Accepted April 19, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Continued public hearing on farm animal regulations to June 5, 2023 (4-0)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board is meeting to attend the Annual Town Meeting. The board will participate in discussions and votes as necessary.

The minutes state that no Wage and Personnel Board meeting was held during the Annual Town Meeting on April 29, 2023. Consequently, no decisions, votes, or discussions were recorded for this board.

• No meeting held
• No actions taken

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to attend the Annual Town Meeting. The agenda contains no other specific discussion items or decisions.

• Attendance at Annual Town Meeting

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will meet on April 29, 2023, at 8:30 AM to discuss items on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant. No decisions are listed on this agenda; it is a procedural meeting with no concrete actions.

General

The Sewer Commission is meeting to review and consider Town Meeting Articles. The body will take any necessary action regarding these articles.

• Review and consideration of Town Meeting Articles

The Board of Sewer Commissioners met and discussed the presentation of Article 8 regarding wastewater leaching fields, focusing on the need for the fields and supporting facts. No formal decisions were made; the board voted 3-0 to recess and attend Town Meeting, adjourning at 8:40 AM.

• Discussed Article 8 Wastewater Leaching Fields (no action taken)
• Voted 3-0 to recess to attend Town Meeting

General

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet on Saturday, April 29, 2023, at the Kingston Intermediate School Auditorium. The agenda includes a discussion of articles on the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and a discussion and possible vote on KTEU Collective Bargaining Agreements for KTEU Labor and KTEU Clerical. Following these items, the board will recess to attend the Town Meeting.

• Discussion of Articles on Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Discussion and Possible Vote of KTEU Collective Bargaining Agreements for KTEU Labor and KTEU Clerical

The Board of Selectmen unanimously ratified collective bargaining agreements with the Kingston Town Employees Labor and Clerical unions, and voted to appropriate funds for them at Town Meeting. The board also voted favorable action on Article 22 (Elected Officials Compensation, as amended) and Articles 28 and 29 (funding the union contracts, as amended). The meeting recessed to attend Town Meeting.

• Ratified KTEU Labor Union collective bargaining agreement (5-0)
• Ratified KTEU Clerical Union collective bargaining agreement (5-0)
• Approved favorable action on Article 22, Elected Officials Compensation, as amended (5-0)
• Approved favorable action on Articles 28 and 29, funding union contracts, as amended (5-0)
• Recessed to attend Town Meeting (5-0)

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to review Warrant Articles. The committee will recess at 9:00 AM to attend Town Meeting.

• Review of Warrant Articles

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review permit requests for residential construction and land use. The board is also deciding on several payments for environmental assessments and restoration plans.

• Public hearing for a single family dwelling at 19 Kingston Street
• Public hearing for Cushman Farms LLC test borings on Thomas Street and Cushman Drive ROW
• Payment of $9,140.00 to Beals and Thomas for Jones River Habitat Assessment
• Payment of $4,328.75 to Beals and Thomas for Blackwater Memorial Forest wetland restoration
• RDA requests for a deck at 58 Off Boundary Street and a pool at 21 Kennedy Road

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved a Negative 3 Determination for an inground pool at 21 Kennedy Road, with conditions including conservation posts, stepping stones, and a variance for impervious coverage. The commission also issued an Order of Conditions for a new home at 19 Kingston Street with added conditions on irrigation wells and street drainage. The Cushman Farms exploratory test pit hearing was continued to May 10 due to concerns about box turtles, vernal pools, and access routes.

• Approved Negative 3 Determination for 21 Kennedy Road pool with conditions (7-0)
• Issued Order of Conditions for 19 Kingston Street dwelling with added conditions (7-0)
• Continued 27a Rocky Nook Avenue COC request to May 10 (7-0)
• Continued 58 Off Boundary Street RDA to May 10 (7-0)
• Cancelled May 24 Conservation Commission meeting (7-0)
• Continued Cushman Farms LLC hearing to May 10 (7-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and decide on several appointments, licenses, and fees. A public hearing will be held on Eversource's petition to construct new transmission lines across town public ways. The board will also consider a salary for the Wastewater Chief Operator and an amendment to the Deputy Fire Chief's contract.

• Public hearing on NSTAR Electric d/b/a Eversource Energy petition for new transmission lines across town public ways (plans dated Nov 17, 2022)
• Recommendation from Highway Superintendent for Transfer Station Sticker Fees
• Approval of New Common Victualler License
• Authorize starting salary of Wastewater Chief Operator/Superintendent
• Consideration of Amendment to Deputy Fire Chief's Appointment Contract

The Board of Selectmen unanimously approved Eversource's request to construct new transmission lines across nine Kingston public ways as part of the Carver/Kingston reliability project. The board also approved transfer station sticker fee increases, a new common victualler license for B's Ice Cream, several personnel appointments, and other routine items.

• Approved Eversource transmission line construction across 9 public ways (5-0)
• Approved transfer station sticker fee increase as recommended by Highway Superintendent (5-0)
• Approved common victualler license for B's Ice Cream at 164 Summer St, contingent on Board of Health approval (5-0)
• Appointed Holly Iannucci as Head of Youth Services Librarian (5-0)
• Appointed Tyler Potrykus as Civil Service Police Officer (5-0)
• Appointed Katelyn Drapeau as Payroll Coordinator (5-0)
• Approved amendment to Deputy Fire Chief's contract (5-0)
• Authorized starting salary of $94,967 for Wastewater Superintendent David Walsh (5-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss water-related updates and proposals. They will hear from Thorndike Development about a water request for the Sacred Heart Development, and from an engineer about well cleaning results and other system updates. The board will also consider a draft moratorium on new water connections and review a MassDEP registration statement.

• Thorndike Development request for water for Sacred Heart Development
• Results of RFP for I-86 well cleaning
• Draft moratorium language on new water connections
• Letter from MassDEP re: Water Management Act Registration Statement
• Request for Plymouth County ARPA funding for Main St Water Main Project

The Board voted to approve minutes from April 12, 2023 (2-0-0) and March 28, 2023 (2-0-1, with one abstention). The Board discussed the I-86 well cleaning project, which received no bids and was re-advertised with a May 11, 2023 deadline. The Board declined to pay a $6,500 bill from the facilities department for electrical work that was not authorized by the Board. No formal votes were taken on the water supply request from Thorndike Development for the Sacred Heart proposal.

• Approved April 12, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-0)
• Approved March 28, 2023 meeting minutes (2-0-1, Kostka abstained)
• Declined to pay $6,500 unauthorized electrical bill from facilities department
• Tabled discussion of Elm St/Jones River drainage project pending conservation agent discussion
• Re-bid I-86 well cleaning project with new deadline of May 11, 2023

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will meet to review and approve minutes from February and March 2023, discuss last-minute considerations for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting, and plan the agenda for the May 15, 2023 meeting. The meeting is open to the public in-person or via Zoom.

• Review and approve minutes for February 13, 2023 and March 13, 2023
• Discuss last-minute considerations for Annual Town Meeting
• Set agenda for May 15, 2023 meeting

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board unanimously approved the revised Proposed Wage and Personnel Bylaw with FY24 Compensation Schedules for the Annual Town Meeting handout, after clarifying language for the Public Health Nurse and Veterans' Agent positions. The board rescinded its initial approval to incorporate the wording changes, then re-approved the handout. Minutes for February and March were postponed to the May 15 meeting.

• Approved revised Wage and Personnel Bylaw with FY24 Compensation Schedules for town meeting handout (unanimous)
• Rescinded prior approval of the handout to add clarification language (unanimous)
• Re-approved the handout with Section 1d wording for Public Health Nurse and Veterans' Agent (unanimous)
• Postponed review of February 13 and March 13 meeting minutes to May 15

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss the Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator position. The agenda contains no other scheduled business items.

• Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator Position

The Board of Sewer Commissioners voted unanimously to recommend promoting Assistant Wastewater Superintendent David Walsh to Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator, a full-time, 40-hour-per-week position at Schedule S-4, Step 8, with an FY23 salary of $94,967, effective April 28, 2023. The meeting adjourned at 10:15 AM.

• Recommended promotion of David Walsh to Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator (unanimous)
• Set position at Schedule S-4, Step 8, FY23 pay of $94,967 annually
• Set start date of April 28, 2023
• Adjourned meeting at 10:15 AM (unanimous)

General

The Kingston Board of Health will meet to interview three health agent candidates: Barry Lewis, Joyce Krystofolski, and Xavier Bennett, as well as review candidate #8. The agenda also includes reviewing bills and past minutes, plus administrative, consultant, and Healthy Kingston updates.

• Interview health agent candidate Barry Lewis at 6:10 PM
• Interview health agent candidate Joyce Krystofolski at 6:45 PM
• Interview health agent candidate Xavier Bennett at 7:20 PM
• Review Health Agent Candidate #8
• Review bills of April 10, 2023

The Board of Health interviewed two candidates for the Health Agent position and unanimously voted to authorize Chairman Joe Casna to negotiate with Joyce Krystofolski, who was deemed the best fit. The board also approved septic plans for multiple properties and discussed a complaint about sick children being sent to school.

• Authorized Chairman to negotiate with Joyce Krystofolski for Health Agent (5-0)
• Approved septic plans for 12 properties including 6 Autumn Lane and 112 Parting Ways
• Accepted minutes of April 11, 2023 (5-0)
• Accepted minutes of April 5, 2023 (4-0-1)

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to review several Town Meeting Warrant articles. The discussion will focus on personnel compensation, position changes, and labor contracts.

• Article #21: Combine/Appoint Treasurer and Collector position
• Article #22: Elected Officials Compensation (Treasurer, Collector)
• Article #23: Wage & Personnel Compensation Schedule
• Articles #24-27: Contracts for Sergeant, Patrolman, Firefighter, and Lieutenant
• Review of FY24 budgets and articles

General

The Board of Selectmen posted a notice for its April 19, 2023 meeting at Town House-26 Evergreen St. Room 200 and via Zoom. The agenda lists only procedural items such as call to order and next meeting date; no substantive decisions or discussions are listed.

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to vote on appointing a Wastewater Superintendent. The agenda lists this as the only new business item, along with routine items like meeting minutes and adjournment.

• Vote for Wastewater Superintendent

The April 18, 2023 Sewer Commissioner meeting was not held because the agenda was not posted within 48 hours prior to the scheduled meeting. No decisions were made.

General

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to review the proposed Annual Town Meeting Warrant, recommend which board member will move each article, and discuss a possible vote for the lieutenants of the Kingston Police Department. The meeting will also include a request to increase the spending limit on the Inspectional Services Revolving Fund.

• Review Proposed Annual Town Meeting Warrant, Make Recommendations and Determine which Board Member Will Move Each Article
• Discussion and Possible Vote for The Lieutenants of the Kingston Police Department
• Request to Increase the Spending Limit on the Inspectional Services Revolving Fund

The Board of Selectmen reviewed the proposed Annual Town Meeting warrant and voted 0-5-0 to recommend the Finance Committee's General Fund Operating Budget of $52,276,109, which does not include four additional firefighters. Later, the Board voted 5-0-0 to support a higher budget of $52,454,230 that includes the additional firefighters and a 10% school budget increase. The Board also approved a 3-year contract with the Kingston Police Lieutenants (4-0-0) and increased the Inspectional Services Revolving Fund spending limit from $125,000 to $150,000 (5-0-0).

• Recommended General Fund Operating Budget of $52,276,109 (0-5-0)
• Supported budget of $52,454,230 including additional firefighters and school increase (5-0-0)
• Approved 3-year contract with Kingston Police Lieutenants (4-0-0)
• Increased Inspectional Services Revolving Fund spending limit to $150,000 (5-0-0)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet on April 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM in Town House Room 200 or via Zoom to review enforcement cases, approve spending for kiosks built by students, and take final action on a tree-clearing bylaw for Town Meeting. Two new public hearings are scheduled for test borings at Cushman Farms and site improvements at 15 Kingston Street.

• $2,846.20 for 4 kiosks built by SLRHS CTE Carpentry students, CPC funded
• Final vote on Tree Clearing By-Law language for Town Meeting Warrant
• Cushman Farms LLC - NOI for test borings along Thomas Street ROW and Cushman Drive ROW
• 15 Kingston Street - NOI for site improvements for single-family dwelling under construction
• 8 Silver Lake Drive - NOI for replacement of retaining wall at single-family residence

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved a modified Notice of Intent (NOI) for a pool, retaining wall, and deck connection at 15 Kingston Street, with Commissioner Artiano recusing himself. The Commission also approved an NOI for a retaining wall replacement at 8 Silver Lake Drive, continued a hearing for Cushman Farms LLC, and approved final language for a tree-clearing bylaw article for the Town Meeting Warrant. Enforcement actions were discussed for unpermitted work at 375 Elm Street and 149 Elm Street, with a vote to set conservation posts at the latter.

• Approved modified NOI for pool and site work at 15 Kingston St (6-0-1)
• Approved NOI for retaining wall replacement at 8 Silver Lake Dr (7-0)
• Continued Cushman Farms LLC test boring hearing to Apr 26 (7-0)
• Approved tree-clearing bylaw article for Town Meeting Warrant (7-0)
• Continued RDA hearing for deck replacement at 58 Off Boundary St (7-0)
• Voted to set conservation posts at 149 Elm St to limit clearing (7-0)
• Signed $2,846.20 bill for four kiosks built by Silver Lake High School
• Accepted March 8, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to review the FY24 departmental budget for schools. The committee will also evaluate several warrant articles and fund transfer requests.

• FY24 Departmental Budget Review for Schools
• Waterways Warrant Article (#33)
• Elected Officials Salaries Warrant Article (#25)
• Community Preservation Committee and Capital Planning Committee Warrant Articles
• Request to increase the spending limit on the Inspectional Services Revolving Fund

General

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to discuss a town-wide water moratorium and may take action on it. The agenda includes no other substantive items, only routine approvals and updates.

• Discussion of a town-wide water moratorium and possible action
• Approval of department bill schedules
• Water superintendent departmental update (none listed)
• Next regular meeting scheduled for April 25, 2023 at 7:00 PM

The Board of Water Commissioners voted unanimously (3-0) to place a temporary moratorium on new water connections and water main extensions, effective April 13, 2023, until Town Counsel reviews and suggests formal language. The decision was made to protect the water system and ratepayers, as the town is regularly pumping more water than allowed under the Water Management Act. The moratorium will remain until a new well and water storage tank are online, and the board will revisit it when conditions change.

• Approved temporary moratorium on new water connections and main extensions (3-0)
• Moratorium effective April 13, 2023, pending Town Counsel review
• Board to revisit moratorium when water capacity increases

Council on Aging

The Council on Aging will meet to review staff reports and discuss several operational updates. The board will address policies, facility maintenance, and transportation schedules.

• Dog Policy
• New OCES food programs
• By-Laws Update
• New GATRA van hours for Tuesdays and Fridays
• Kitchen sink status

The Kingston Council on Aging advisory board met and accepted the January secretary's report. The capital planning request to convert the sunroom into a full-season room was denied. The board discussed upcoming events, including a yard sale on June 10 and a caregiver support group, and noted that proposed by-laws were approved by the Board of Selectmen and will go to town meeting on April 29.

• Accepted January secretary's report (unanimous)
• Capital planning request for sunroom enhancement denied
• Bathroom near front desk designated staff-only
• Noted by-laws approved by BOS, to be presented at town meeting on 4/29/23
• Assistant Director's position placed on Town Warrant for town vote

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will discuss the proposed capital plan, review the annual town meeting warrant, and consider requests to use ARPA funds for school HVAC and water main projects. The meeting also includes a public hearing for an aquaculture license transfer and appointments for a public health nurse and dispatcher.

• Public hearing for Aquaculture License Transfer
• Joint presentation of Proposed Capital Plan with Finance and Capital Planning Committees
• Request to use ARPA funds for Silver Lake Regional High School HVAC replacement and Main Street Water Main Project
• Request to withdraw funds from Kingston School Department Special Education Reserve Account
• Review and recommendations on Annual Town Meeting Warrant

The Board of Selectmen approved using ARPA funds for a new HVAC unit at Silver Lake Regional High School ($188,175) and for the Main Street water main replacement ($503,349). They also approved a $218,334 withdrawal from the Special Education Reserve Account to cover the FY23 school budget shortfall. The Board made several changes to the Annual Town Meeting warrant, including removing the Rent Control article and voting unfavorable on two petitioned street articles.

• Approved $188,175 ARPA funds for Silver Lake Regional High School HVAC unit (5-0)
• Approved $503,349 ARPA funds for Main Street water main replacement (5-0)
• Approved $218,334 withdrawal from Special Education Reserve Account (5-0)
• Removed Article 43 (Rent Control Board amendment) from Town Meeting warrant (3-2)
• Voted unfavorable on Article 47 (Cedar Street acceptance) (0-5)
• Voted unfavorable on Article 50 (Country Club Way acceptance) (0-5)
• Approved aquaculture lease transfer from Lease #1 to Lease #3 for John Wheble (5-0)
• Appointed Patricia Iafrate as Public Health Nurse and Jacob Stafford as Public Safety Dispatcher (5-0)

General

The Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for April 11, 2023. The sole agenda item is for the committee to attend a Board of Selectmen meeting.

• Attendance at Board of Selectmen meeting

General

The Board of Health is meeting to discuss one item. The board will review current applications for the Health Agent position.

• Review of current Health Agent applications

The Kingston Board of Health reviewed seven applications for the Health Agent position and decided to interview candidates #4, #5, and #7. Candidates #1, #2, #3, and #6 were not interviewed due to lacking qualifications or experience. The position remains open until filled.

• Candidate #4 approved for interview
• Candidate #5 approved for interview
• Candidate #7 approved for interview
• Candidates #1, #2, #3, #6 not to be interviewed
• Position to remain open until filled

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will hold public hearings on a proposed zoning bylaw amendment regarding filling and reclamation of land, discuss adding a new section to the General Bylaws on earth removal reclamation, and consider a special permit petition for a tap room at 77-79 Summer Street. The board will also discuss a petition for Country Club Way and review bylaws on land clearing and specimen tree protection for the 2023 Town Meeting.

• Public hearing on zoning bylaw amendment for filling and reclamation of land
• Discussion on adding General Bylaw Section 12A: earth removal reclamation
• Public hearing for Stephen Darby's special permit for a tap room at 77-79 Summer Street (JNS Realty Trust, Dereck Affsa Trustee)
• Discussion of petition for Country Club Way by David Fuller
• Review of Land Clearing, Grading and Protection of Specimen Trees Bylaws for 2023 Town Meeting

The Kingston Planning Board voted 4-0 to not support a citizen-petitioned article for the 2023 Annual Town Meeting that would amend zoning bylaws regarding filling and reclamation of land. The board also approved a special permit for a taproom at 77-79 Summer Street with conditions, and voted favorably on a revised Land Clearing, Grading and Protection of Specimen Trees bylaw article.

• Voted 4-0 to not support the citizen-petitioned article on filling and reclamation of land
• Approved special permit for taproom at 77-79 Summer Street (4-0)
• Voted 4-0 for favorable action on Land Clearing, Grading and Protection of Specimen Trees bylaw article

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to authorize payments and tax abatements. The board will also discuss articles for the Town Meeting and review uncollectible taxes.

• Review and authorization of tax abatements
• Review and authorization of abatement of uncollected taxes
• Discussion of articles for Town Meeting
• Review and authorization of motor vehicle commitments
• Review of memo from Town Accountant/Finance Director Carol McCoy

General

The Board of Assessors is meeting to discuss and decide on abatement applications and to discuss exemptions under state law. The board will also review minutes from a March 14 executive session. The agenda is otherwise routine and procedural.

• Decision on abatement applications
• Discussion of exemptions under M.G.L. c30A, section 21 (a) (7) and M.G.L. c59, section 60
• Approval of minutes from March 14, 2023 executive session

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board will meet to discuss personnel appointments, a compensation study, and proposed changes to vacation leave bylaws. The board will also review minutes and prepare materials for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting.

• Position grading of Assistant Director of Elder Affairs
• Proposed change to Bylaw Section 11, Vacation Leave
• Review and approve Wage and Personnel Board handout for Annual Town Meeting
• Cost of warrant article
• Discussion of hiring a Chief Operator Superintendent at a step higher than the minimum

The Board approved a higher starting salary for the Wastewater Superintendent and re-graded the Assistant Director of Elder Affairs position. It also accepted changes to the first-year vacation accrual policy and approved the handout for the Annual Town Meeting.

• Supported hiring Wastewater Superintendent at Step 8 of S-4 ($94,967) (Unanimous)
• Approved changing Assistant Director of Elder Affairs from Schedule B-2 to Grade 5 (Unanimous)
• Accepted modified vacation leave accrual for first-year employees in Section 11(a) (Unanimous)
• Approved Annual Town Meeting handout with corrections to Schedule A and Section 11 (2-0-0)
• Postponed approval of February 13, March 13, and March 20, 2023 minutes

General

The Kingston Sewer Commission will hold a meeting on Monday, April 10, 2023, at the Town House and via Zoom. The agenda consists of a call to order and an appointment to attend the Wage and Personnel Board Meeting regarding the Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator Position.

• Appointment to attend the Wage and Personnel Board Meeting regarding the Wastewater Superintendent Chief Operator Position

The Sewer Commission did not hold a public meeting on April 10, 2023, because a quorum of commissioners was not present. The minutes refer to the Wage and Personnel Board meeting held the same date, but no substantive decisions were made by the Sewer Commission.

• No quorum; no decisions made

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold public hearings regarding special permits and variances for residential and commercial properties. The board will discuss building expansions, signage, and site plan modifications.

• Public hearing for two new 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St.
• Special permit request for a 26x20 addition to a single family dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road
• Variance request for signage size and number at Dunkin Donuts, 121 Main St.
• Informal hearing for a 12 X 16 deck modification at 77 Main Street

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for a 26x20 addition to a preexisting nonconforming single-family dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Rd. The board also continued hearings for 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. and 121 Main St. to future dates, and determined that a proposed 12' x 16' deck at 77 Main St. is a minor modification to a prior special permit.

• Approved special permit for 8 Smelt Pond Rd. addition (6-0)
• Continued 1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. hearing to May 3, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued 121 Main St. signage variance to May 5, 2023 (4-0)
• Determined 77 Main St. deck is a minor modification to Special Permit #22-04
• Approved minutes of 3/15/2023 (6-0)

General

The Kingston Finance Committee will meet on April 5, 2023, to review departmental budgets for schools and fire services, as well as warrant articles for the Water and Sewer Departments. The committee will also review Town Meeting warrant articles. This is a procedural meeting with no decisions scheduled.

General

The Board of Selectmen is meeting to attend the Finance Committee meeting, which is the only substantive item on the agenda. The rest of the agenda is procedural boilerplate, including the call to order and meeting logistics.

• Attend Finance Committee meeting

General

The Kingston Conservation Commission is meeting to continue its discussion of warrant articles, which may affect local conservation regulations. The agenda includes signing documents, enforcement matters, meeting minutes, and updates, but no public hearings are scheduled. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

• Continued discussion of warrant articles
• Signing documents
• Enforcement items
• Meeting minutes review
• Updates

The Kingston Conservation Commission continued discussions on a proposed tree-clearing bylaw and a wetlands bylaw. The tree-clearing bylaw discussion was tabled until the next meeting to allow Commissioner Buz Artiano to propose alternative language on the 5,000-square-foot threshold. The Commission voted to increase the wetlands bylaw fine from $100 to $300 per day and approved the remainder of the wetlands bylaw as written.

• Tabled tree-clearing bylaw discussion until next meeting (7-0)
• Approved $300 per day fine for wetlands bylaw violations (7-0)
• Approved remainder of wetlands bylaw as written (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

General

The Kingston Board of Health will meet to review past invoices, approve meeting minutes, and discuss policies including finalizing regulations for keeping non-commercial farm animals for a public hearing. Updates on public health staffing and grant progress are also scheduled.

• Review March 14 and March 28, 2023 invoices
• Accept final version of Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals Regulations for Public Hearing
• Policies and procedures for incoming Public Health Nurse
• Shared Excellence Grant update
• Enforcement action at Quick Mart

The Kingston Board of Health voted 3-0 to eliminate one of Quick Mart's two tobacco violations and set a $1,000 fine for the second, payable by April 7, 2023. The board also voted 3-0 to accept the final draft of the Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals regulations and schedule a public hearing for May 1, 2023. Additionally, the board approved a $2,246.45 COVID vaccine reimbursement check and added a voting member to the Shared Excellence Grant Committee.

• Eliminated Quick Mart's first tobacco violation and set $1,000 fine for second, due April 7 (3-0)
• Accepted final draft of Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals regulations (3-0)
• Scheduled public hearing on farm animal regulations for May 1, 2023 at 6:30 pm (3-0)
• Accepted minutes of March 6 and March 13, 2023 (3-0)
• Approved $2,246.45 COVID vaccine reimbursement to General Fund (3-0)
• Added Board of Health voting member to Shared Excellence Grant Committee (3-0)
• Approved 15 septic plans and noted pending construction permits
• Approved Health Agent as authorized signatory for Board of Health invoices

General

The Sewer Commission is meeting to enter an executive session. The body will discuss strategy for negotiations or collective bargaining with non-union personnel.

• Executive session regarding negotiations with non-union personnel

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to discuss several new business items including a plant upgrade and the Davis property. The board will also review wage and personnel matters and receive an update from the Superintendent.

• Plant Upgrade
• Davis Property
• Town Meeting
• Wage and Personnel

The Board of Sewer Commissioners met and discussed replacing damaged diffusers in tanks 1 and 2, with materials estimated at $68,000 and installation by Methuen Construction on a time-and-materials basis. They also discussed the Davis property leaching fields, noting Kingston appears on DEP's preliminary list for State Revolving Fund funding, but a positive Town Meeting vote is needed to move forward. No formal votes were taken on these items; the only vote was to adjourn into executive session for negotiations with nonunion personnel.

• Voted unanimously to adjourn into executive session for nonunion personnel negotiations
• Discussed replacing damaged diffusers in tanks 1 & 2, estimated $68,000 in materials
• Discussed Davis property leaching fields and need for Town Meeting vote for SRF funding

General

The Finance Committee is meeting to review specific departmental budgets for fiscal year 2024. The committee will also review Town Meeting Warrant Articles.

• FY24 Budget review: Sewer/Wastewater
• FY24 Budget review: Facilities
• FY24 Budget review: Renewable Energy Enterprise
• Review of Town Meeting Warrant Articles

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will hear from a developer regarding the proposed Monk's Hill development. The board will also receive engineering updates on the Water Treatment Facility and the I-86 Well Cleaning project.

• Proposed Development Monk's Hill presentation by Mark Baranski of Trammel Crow
• Engineering updates on Water Treatment Facility
• Engineering updates on I-86 Well Cleaning project
• Update on Kelleher property
• Update on March 15, 2023 Finance Com Meeting

The Board of Water Commissioners told developer Mark Baranski that it cannot commit water supply to the proposed 250-unit Monk's Hill development, citing lack of a new well site and storage, with an estimated five-year timeline. The Board approved a new appraisal of the Kelleher property for a potential well site. It also approved the March 14 meeting minutes and discussed a water capacity handout for Town Meeting, removing mention of eminent domain.

• Approved minutes of March 14, 2023 (2-0)
• Approved hiring an appraiser for new appraisal of Kelleher property (2-0)
• Declined to commit water supply to Monk's Hill development
• Discussed potential water moratorium, no formal action
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Board of Selectmen will discuss and potentially vote on moving labor agreements for police and fire unions to the Town Meeting Warrant. The board is also reviewing several appointments and a request to hire town employees.

• Possible vote on Collective Bargaining Agreements for Kingston Superior Officers Union, Kingston Patrolman's Association, and Kingston Firefighters Local 2337
• Request from David Withman of Harbor to the Bay to host a charity ride on September 23, 2023
• Annual appointment of Animal Inspector
• Appointment of Patricia Waitkevich as GATRA Representative
• Request to authorize the hiring of Town Employees

The Board of Selectmen approved collective bargaining agreements with the Kingston Superior Officers Union, Patrolman's Association, and Firefighters Local 2337, and voted to place warrant articles for voter consideration at the Annual Town Meeting. The board also approved the Harbor to the Bay charity bike ride, accepted donations, reappointed the Animal Inspector, and hired two new town employees.

• Approved Harbor to the Bay Bike Ride for Sept 23, 2023, contingent on MassDOT permit (5-0)
• Accepted donations: $708.23 for Conservation, $1,945 for Veterans Memorial, $6,700 for Library (5-0)
• Reappointed Debra Mueller as Animal Inspector through April 30, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved Superior Officers Union contract and warrant article (4-0, Kramer recused)
• Approved Patrolman's Association contract and warrant article (4-0, Kramer recused)
• Approved Firefighters Local 2337 contract and warrant article (4-0, Kramer recused)
• Appointed Patricia Waitkevich as GATRA Representative (5-0)
• Hired Julianna Denum as Assistant Conservation Agent and Erin Benoit as Assistant Town Planner (5-0 each)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will open a public hearing on a proposed modification of a special permit and site plan for 121 Main Street, submitted by Spencer Realty LLC, which includes a daycare facility and a Dunkin’ Donuts drive-thru. The board will also briefly discuss citizen-petitioned zoning and bylaw articles, including site fill/reclamation and tree-clearing rules, and consider recommendations on street acceptance for Indian Pond Estates and Cedar Street.

• Public hearing on 121 Main St: Spencer Realty LLC daycare + Dunkin’ Donuts drive-thru
• Citizen petition: zoning site fill/reclamation hearing scheduled 4-10-23
• Citizen petition: general bylaw site fill/reclamation proposed as Planning Board permit
• Recommendation to Selectmen on street acceptance for Indian Pond Estates – Country Club Way
• Recommendation to Selectmen on street acceptance for Cedar Street – Rocky Nook

The Kingston Planning Board approved a modification of the special permit and site plan for 121 Main Street, allowing a Dunkin' Donuts drive-thru to share the site with an existing daycare. The approval includes conditions related to traffic safety, landscaping, and future tenant changes. The board also voted not to recommend the layout of Country Club Way and Cedar Street for street acceptance.

• Approved special permit modification for 121 Main Street (4-0)
• Approved site plan for 121 Main Street (4-0)
• Voted not to recommend laying out Country Club Way (0-4)
• Voted not to recommend laying out Cedar Street (0-4)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will meet to discuss and vote on MS4 support payments totaling $16,692, continued discussion of warrant articles for Town Meeting, and enforcement updates. Public hearings will be held for two property-related notices of intent.

• Signing documents for EPG Dec 2022 MS4 Support - $3,942
• Signing documents for EPG Feb 2023 MS4 Support - $12,750
• Public hearing for 8 Silver Lake Drive retaining wall replacement
• Public hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Road single-family house addition
• Hiring of Assistant Conservation Agent

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved a Notice of Intent for a home addition at 8 Smelt Pond Road, with conditions including a specific wastewater treatment unit and planting plan. The Commission also continued a public hearing for a retaining wall replacement at 8 Silver Lake Drive to April 12, 2023, and discussed trail maintenance at Camp Nekon, addressing public concerns about road closures and wetland impacts.

• Approved NOI for 8 Smelt Pond Road addition with conditions (5-0)
• Continued NOI hearing for 8 Silver Lake Drive retaining wall to April 12, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved minutes for Feb 8, 2023 (4-0, Jim recused)
• Approved minutes for Feb 22, 2023 with one edit (5-0)
• Approved minutes for March 1, 2023 (5-0)
• Signed bills for MS4 support and Camp Nekon trail maintenance
• Agreed to hold separate Zoom meeting to discuss bylaw final language
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to review commitments and a change order for CDM Smith. The board will also discuss a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, and Kingston Collection Way.

• CDM Smith change order appointment
• Plant Upgrade discussion
• Davis Property discussion
• Kingston Collection Way discussion
• Review of commitments #23-24, 23-29, 23-32, 23-33, 23-34, 23-35, 23-38, 23-39, 23-40, 23-42

The Board of Sewer Commissioners unanimously approved a $225,000 contract extension for CDM Smith through June 2023 and a $121,442.73 change order for the plant upgrade. They also accepted Superintendent Robert Monaghan's retirement effective April 28, 2023, and discussed but did not vote on replacing aging diffusers. The meeting adjourned to executive session for non-union negotiations.

• Approved $225,000 contract extension for CDM Smith through June 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved $121,442.73 for Change Order 6 (unanimous)
• Accepted Superintendent Robert Monaghan's retirement effective April 28, 2023 (unanimous)
• Recessed to executive session for non-union personnel negotiations (unanimous)

General

The Sewer Commission is meeting to conduct a strategy session. The board will enter an executive session to discuss negotiations or collective bargaining with non-union personnel.

• Executive session regarding negotiations with non-union personnel

Wage & Personnel

The board will meet to reorganize and review previous minutes. The session includes an executive session to discuss the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study for non-union personnel negotiations.

• Board reorganization
• Executive session regarding the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study
• Request for a third board member to be appointed by the Finance Committee

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board unanimously voted to appoint James Soule as Chairman and Darlene Regan as Vice Chairman. The board also discussed rescheduling its April meeting due to a holiday and potential meetings with the Sewer Commissioners regarding hiring a new Chief Operator Superintendent. The minutes from February 13, 2023, were not ready for approval, and the board recessed to executive session to discuss the Classification and Compensation Study.

• Appointed James Soule as Chairman (unanimous)
• Appointed Darlene Regan as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Recessed to executive session to discuss Classification and Compensation Study (unanimous)

General

The Kingston Finance Committee will meet to review various FY24 departmental budgets, including the Police Department, liability insurance, employee benefits, snow and ice removal, and utilities. The committee will also discuss appointing a representative to the Wage and Personnel Board.

• FY24 Departmental Budget Review for Police, Liability Insurance, Employee Benefits, Snow and Ice, Street Lighting, Solid Waste, Streets, Trees & Parks, Facilities, General Operations, Water, and Sewer/Wastewater
• Appoint representative to Wage and Personnel Board

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will meet to approve minutes and hear two items: a request by Richard Powderly to modify a special permit to allow 150 dogs at A Dogs World Unleashed, Inc. (47 Marion Drive), and an informal opinion request by Maggie Ann Ewing regarding ZBA case #20-01.

• Modification of Special Permit #20-10 to increase dog limit to 150 at 47 Marion Drive
• Informal request by Maggie Ann Ewing for opinion on ZBA case #20-01

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a modification to Special Permit #20-10, allowing A Dogs World Unleashed, Inc. to increase its allowable number of dogs to 150 and overnight boarding to 55. The board also granted a 60-day extension for a separate case involving a clerical error in a prior special permit, and approved the minutes from the March 1, 2023 meeting.

• Approved modification of Special Permit #20-10 to allow 150 dogs and 55 overnight boarding at 47 Marion Drive (5-0)
• Granted 60-day extension for ZBA case #20-01 regarding 41 East Avenue (5-0)
• Approved minutes from March 1, 2023 meeting (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review department bills and a Town Meeting article. The board will also sign minutes from January and February 2023 before entering an executive session.

• Review and decision on Town Meeting article
• Review and authorization of department bills
• Approval of January and February 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet on March 14, 2023, at 5:15 PM in Town House Room 101. The agenda includes a call to order and an executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy, followed by approval of executive session meeting minutes.

• Executive session to discuss collective bargaining strategy
• Approval of executive session meeting minutes

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will discuss engineering updates including well cleaning and capacity analysis. The board is also reviewing development plans and water availability requests for several local projects.

• Engineering updates on 1-86 Well Cleaning project and water treatment facility
• Sacred Heart Development Project appointment with Lloyd Geisinger
• Development plan review for 1 Tremont St and 163 Summer St
• Water availability request for Kingston 2.0 (Monks Hill)
• Review of warrant articles for Town Meeting

The Board voted unanimously to remove a $383,702.50 article for the Trackle Pond filter from the Town Meeting warrant and reallocate $300K from water tank maintenance to the Main St Water Main Project. They also approved a $3,275 surge protector installation for the South St well and approved fuel purchases through Osterman. The Board discussed water capacity issues for the Sacred Heart development, noting the town lacks capacity to supply the project.

• Approved minutes of Feb 14 & Feb 28, 2023 (3-0)
• Removed $383,702.50 Trackle Pond filter article from Town Meeting warrant (3-0)
• Reallocated $300K from water tank maintenance to Main St Water Main Project (3-0)
• Authorized Northstar Electrical to install surge protector for $3,275 (3-0)
• Approved oil and propane fuel purchase through Osterman (3-0)
• Placed Mark Baranski on agenda for March 28 meeting re: Monk's Hill water availability

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to handle routine town business, including closing the Annual Town Meeting warrant, accepting a donation, renewing razor clam permits, and authorizing a town employee hire. They will also consider a one-day liquor license for JB's Indoor Dog Park and receive an update on the Nuclear Decommissioning Citizen's Advisory Panel. The meeting includes announcements, open forum, and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Close Annual Town Meeting Warrant
• Approval of One Day Liquor License for JB's Indoor Dog Park, 101 Kingston Collection
• Acceptance of Donation
• Renewal of Razor Clams
• Request to Authorize the Hiring of Town Employee

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to close the April 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant, which contains 54 articles. They also approved a one-day liquor license, accepted donations, renewed razor clam licenses, hired a wastewater laborer, and made several committee appointments.

• Approved one-day liquor license for Stellwagen Beer Co. at JB's Indoor Dog Park (5-0)
• Closed April 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant (5-0)
• Accepted $530 in donations to Veteran's Service Department (5-0)
• Renewed 11 razor clam licenses for 2023-2024 at $300 fee (5-0)
• Appointed David Wilson as Wastewater Laborer (5-0)
• Approved Town Administrator's annual evaluation schedule (5-0)
• Appointed Patricia Livie, Connor Anderson, Jennifer Sutton, Patricia Tucker, John Bartlett, and Marsha Meekins to committees (5-0)
• Approved minutes from Dec 13, 2022 and Jan 17, 2023 as amended (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors will meet to review and sign meeting minutes from January and February 2023, discuss and decide on abatement applications, and review exemption applications under state law. The meeting is procedural with no new policy decisions expected.

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging will hold a routine meeting with no substantive decisions, only procedural items and reports. The agenda includes standard announcements, staff reports, and open forum, with no ordinances, contracts, or fee changes listed.

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board will discuss the retirement of the Chief Operator Superintendent and the hiring of a replacement. They will also review and approve minutes from previous meetings, plan the next meeting, and enter executive session to discuss the Classification and Compensation Study and approve executive session minutes.

• Retirement of Chief Operator Superintendent and hiring of replacement
• Review and approve minutes for February 13, 2023 and February 27, 2023
• Discuss date/agenda for March 20, 2023
• Executive session: Discussing Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study for negotiations with non-union personnel
• Review and approve executive session minutes for February 6, 2023 and February 27, 2023

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board met on March 13, 2023, with only two members present. The board unanimously approved the minutes from its February 27, 2023 meeting. It discussed the upcoming retirement of the Wastewater Department's Chief Operator Superintendent and the potential need for board approval if a promotion above Step 3 of S-4 occurs. The board also reviewed advice from Town Counsel on handling the Compensation Study if the two members cannot agree, and recessed to executive session to discuss the study in preparation for negotiations with non-union personnel.

• Approved minutes for February 27, 2023 (unanimous)
• Recessed to executive session to discuss Classification and Compensation Study (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will meet to discuss the process for hiring a Health Agent. The meeting is open to the public in person or via Zoom.

The Kingston Board of Health accepted the resignation of Health Agent Paula Rossi-Clapp, effective March 26, 2023, and appointed Arthur Boyle as interim Health Agent starting immediately. The board discussed the hiring process for a permanent replacement, including internal posting requirements and potential restructuring of the health department.

• Accepted resignation of Health Agent Paula Rossi-Clapp (4-0)
• Appointed Arthur Boyle as interim Health Agent (4-0)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will convene on March 13, 2023, at 7:00 PM in Town House Room 200 and via Zoom to discuss proposed bylaws for Town Meeting, including cell tower residency for municipal use and land clearing regulations, as well as the road condition of Indian Pond Estates following a court decision. The meeting is open to the public and will be livestreamed.

• Discussion of bylaws for Town Meeting: Cell Tower Residency for Municipal Use
• Discussion of bylaws for Town Meeting: Land Clearing
• Discussion of Indian Pond Estates Road Condition - Court Decision

The Kingston Planning Board met on March 13, 2023, and held discussions only, with no formal votes or decisions. They reviewed proposed bylaw updates on cell tower municipal use and tree clearing/grading, discussed the defaulted road improvements at Indian Pond Estates Phase IV, and noted preliminary talks about a possible development on the Sisters of Divine Providence property. No action items were approved or denied.

• No formal votes or decisions taken at this meeting
• Discussed cell tower municipal use bylaw, to be sent to town counsel for review
• Discussed tree clearing and grading general bylaw draft, with no action
• Noted Fred Tonsberg defaulted on 2014 road agreement; legal judgment holds him responsible, no improvements made
• Acknowledged preliminary development discussions for Sisters of Divine Providence property, but nothing on warrant

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission will meet to continue discussing proposed warrant articles for Town Meeting, sign a $2,815 contract for engineering services related to the Lake Street Culvert Replacement Grant, and hold public hearings on three Notices of Intent. The agenda includes items on retaining wall replacement, test borings, and a home addition near Smelt Pond.

• Signing: Strong Tree Engineering - $2,815.00 for engineering/permitting services for Lake Street Culvert Replacement Grant
• Continued discussion of Commission-proposed warrant articles for Town Meeting
• Public hearing: 8 Silver Lake Drive - NOI for replacement of retaining wall
• Public hearing: Cushman Farms LLC - NOI for test borings along Thomas Street ROW and Cushman Drive ROW
• Public hearing: 8 Smelt Pond Road - NOI for addition to single-family house adjacent to Smelt Pond

The Kingston Conservation Commission voted 7-0 to place two proposed warrant articles on the Town Meeting warrant: a rewrite of the Wetland Protection Bylaw and a new land-clearing bylaw, subject to final edits. The Commission also approved a list of tax-title parcels to be requested for conservation designation. Two public hearings were continued: one for test borings at Cushman Farms and one for a septic system replacement at 8 Smelt Pond Road.

• Approved listing Wetland Protection Bylaw rewrite and land-clearing bylaw on Town Meeting warrant (7-0)
• Approved list of tax-title parcels for conservation designation (7-0)
• Approved minutes from 1/11/2023 (6-0-1, Natalie abstained)
• Continued hearing for Cushman Farms test borings to April 12 (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Road septic replacement to March 22 (7-0)
• Signed $2,815 bill for Strong Tree Engineering services
• Signed two bills for Beals & Thomas services
• Signed previously approved Orders of Conditions for 23 Spruce Street

Board of Health

The Board of Health will consider two variance requests regarding a system at 8 Smelt Pond Road. The board will also discuss potential dates for a future public hearing.

• Variance request for 8 Smelt Pond Road to increase maximum allowable depth of system
• Variance request for 8 Smelt Pond Road for reductions to system location setbacks
• Discussion of public hearing dates for 4/3/2023 or 5/1/2023

The Board approved two septic system variances for a property at 8 Smelt Pond Road. The Board also scheduled a public hearing regarding non-commercial farm animals for May 1st.

• Approved variance to reduce septic system setback from 100 ft to 75 ft at 8 Smelt Pond Road (4-0-0)
• Approved variance for maximum allowable cover over septic components at 8 Smelt Pond Road (4-0-0)
• Scheduled Public Hearing on Non-Commercial Farm Animals for May 1st
• Approved Administrative Assistant as Administrator of the BOH Facebook page
• Accepted February 6, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0-0)

General

The Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting to discuss warrant articles for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting. No formal decisions or public hearings are listed on the agenda.

The Kingston Conservation Commission voted unanimously to support five warrant articles for the Annual Town Meeting, covering MS4 permit compliance funding, Reed Mill Pond Dam engineering, return of unused grant funds, and multiple land transfers. The Commission also voted 5-2 to include new jurisdictional language in a rewritten Wetlands Protection By-Law, and recommended the agent simplify a draft Land Clearing By-Law for further review.

• Approved MS4 permit compliance contract funding article (7-0)
• Approved Reed Mill Pond Dam EAP and Phase I report contracting article (7-0)
• Approved phased return of up to $100,000 unused grant match funds (7-0)
• Added 4 Hillcrest Road parcels (56-20, 22, 24, 26) to tax title land transfer list (7-0)
• Added parcel 38-73 to tax title land transfer list (7-0)
• Approved transfer of Evergreen parcel 35-53 to Conservation (7-0)
• Approved Camp Nekon 'Offal Pit' parcels 82-5 and 6 transfer and 2014 article 40 language change (7-0)
• Approved jurisdictional language in Wetlands Protection By-Law rewrite (5-2)

General

The Kingston Finance Committee will meet to review departmental budgets for FY24, including Selectmen, Fire, Police, and other town departments. They will also discuss a reserve fund transfer request and appoint a representative to the Wage and Personnel Board.

• FY24 Departmental Budget Review for Selectmen, Fire, Police, Harbormaster, Animal Control, Assessing, Revaluation, Treasurer, Tax Title, Debt Service, and Reserve Fund
• Reserve Fund Transfer Request
• Appointment of representative to Wage and Personnel Board

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold hearings on special permits for residential and commercial developments. The board will also review an application for a ZBA Alternate Member.

• Special permit request for two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St.
• Special permit for a 26x20 addition to a single family dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road
• Special permit for Cartec Collision to operate a motor vehicle sales facility at 132 Pembroke St.
• Variance request for Spencer Kingston Realty LLC to install signage at Dunkin Donuts, 121 Main St.
• Review of application for ZBA Alternate Member

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals approved a special permit for Cartec Collision to operate a motor vehicle sales facility for up to 10 vehicles at 132 Pembroke St. The board continued hearings for two other applications (1 Tremont St./163 Summer St. and 8 Smelt Pond Rd.) to April 5, 2023, and continued the Dunkin Donuts signage variance hearing to the same date. The board also approved minutes from several prior meetings and welcomed a new associate member.

• Approved special permit for Cartec Collision to sell up to 10 vehicles at 132 Pembroke St. (4-0)
• Continued hearing for 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. apartment project to April 5, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Rd. addition to April 5, 2023 (4-0)
• Continued Dunkin Donuts signage variance hearing for 121 Main St. to April 5, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved minutes from 11/16/2022, 1/1/2022, 1/18/2022, and 2/1/2023 (4-0)

Board of Water Commissioners

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to review department bill schedules, vote on meeting minutes from February 14, 2023, and discuss engineering and capital plan updates. The agenda also includes an appointment with Kristen Berger of Resilient CE and a discussion with BrownBuilt Construction regarding 163 Summer Street and 1 Tremont Street.

• Vote to approve meeting minutes from February 14, 2023
• Appointment with Kristen Berger, Resilient CE, regarding engineering updates
• Water Superintendent departmental update on the Cap Plan Meeting held on February 22, 2023
• New business discussion with BrownBuilt Construction regarding 163 Summer Street / 1 Tremont Street

The Board of Water Commissioners voted unanimously to send revised site plans for the 163 Summer Street/1 Tremont Street development to Resilient CE for engineering review. The board also approved $422,937 in municipal allocated costs for the water department. Minutes from February 14 were tabled due to technical difficulties.

• Approved sending 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St plans to Resilient CE for review (3-0)
• Approved municipal allocated costs of $422,937 for water department (3-0)
• Tabled approval of February 14, 2023 meeting minutes until March 14
• Adjourned open session (3-0)

General

The Sewer Commission is meeting to discuss sewer appointments and a request for an abatement. The board will also review meeting minutes from January and February 2023.

• Appointment for 48 Howlands Lane
• Appointment for Lloyd Thorndike - Sacred Heart property
• Abatement for 30 Cole St.

The Board of Sewer Commissioners discussed sewer capacity for a proposed project at 48 Howlands Ave, noting limited capacity until funding for additional leaching fields is available. They agreed to inform the Board of Selectmen that the plant is at capacity with the current 3 tanks. A discussion on managing a privately built wastewater treatment plant for the Sacred Heart property was tabled. The Board also approved a water bill abatement for 30 Cole St.

• Agreed to inform Board of Selectmen that plant is at capacity with 3 tanks
• Tabled discussion on managing Sacred Heart property wastewater treatment plant
• Approved water bill abatement for 30 Cole St (unanimous)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet on February 28, 2023, to discuss public hearings, appointments, and town business. Key items include a continuation of a public hearing on Eversource Energy’s petition to construct new transmission lines across town public ways, updates on ARPA reimbursement checks, and discussions on combining town treasurer and collector positions.

• Continuation of public hearing on Eversource Energy transmission line construction across public ways
• Presentation of ARPA reimbursement check from Plymouth County Commissioners
• Request for additional ARPA funds for Town Building Fiber Project
• Approval of one-day liquor license for Make a Wish charity event at JB's Indoor Dog Park, 101 Kingston Collection Way
• Discussion on combining positions of Treasurer and Collector

The Board of Selectmen voted 4-0-1 to deny Eversource's request to construct transmission lines across town public ways, with Chairman Emberg voting against. The board also approved several other items, including a warrant article to combine the Treasurer and Tax Collector positions into an appointed role, a one-day liquor license for a Make-A-Wish event, and a bike ride permit. The Spring Town Meeting was set for April 29, 2023.

• Denied Eversource transmission line request (4-0-1)
• Approved COA Advisory Board bylaw changes for Town Meeting warrant (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for Make-A-Wish event (5-0)
• Approved Cape Cod Getaway bike ride with conditions (5-0)
• Approved warrant article to combine Treasurer/Collector as appointed position (4-0)
• Set Spring Town Meeting for April 29, 2023 (5-0)
• Recommended warrant article to increase senior/veteran tax work-off to $1,000 (5-0)
• Approved additional ARPA funds for Town Building Fiber Project (5-0)

Wage & Personnel

The board will meet to review meeting minutes and schedule future dates. The session will move to executive session to discuss the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study and prepare for negotiations with non-union personnel.

• Discussion of the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study
• Strategy sessions for negotiations with non-union personnel
• Request for a third board member to be appointed by the Finance Committee

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board met on February 27, 2023, with only two members present. They unanimously approved the draft minutes from December 12, 2022, December 19, 2022, and January 17, 2023. The board then voted unanimously to recess to executive session to discuss the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study, with no return to open session. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes for Dec 12, 2022, Dec 19, 2022, and Jan 17, 2023 (unanimous)
• Voted to recess to executive session for compensation study discussions (unanimous)

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will conduct its regular meeting to decide on signatory authorizations, amendments to Open Order of Conditions (OOCs), and enforcement actions. Public hearings will continue for a single-family house addition and hear a new case for a raze/rebuild project.

• Signatory authorization for edited documents
• 11 Kingston Street, Lot 4 — Request for Amendment to OOCs
• 164 Pembroke Street — Enforcement case
• 8 Smelt Pond Road — Continued public hearing for single-family house addition
• 23 Spruce Street — Public hearing for raze/rebuild of single-family house

The Commission approved the Notice of Intent for the raze and rebuild of a single-family dwelling at 23 Spruce Street, including two variances, with special conditions such as using biodegradable hydraulic fluid. It also approved signatory authorization for the Conservation Agent, accepted an as-built plan for 164 Pembroke Street, and scheduled an ad hoc meeting to discuss proposed Town Meeting articles.

• Approved signatory authorization for Conservation Agent Matt Penella for invoices under $2,000 (7-0)
• Approved NOI for 23 Spruce Street raze/rebuild with special conditions and two variances (6-0-1)
• Accepted as-built plan for 164 Pembroke Street with 1999 stream note added (7-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Road to March 8, 2023 (7-0)
• Scheduled ad hoc meeting for March 1, 2023 to discuss Town Meeting articles (7-0)
• Approved minutes of January 25, 2023 (7-0)
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Kingston Sewer Commission is meeting to approve minutes, commitments, and an abatement, and to discuss several appointments including a plant upgrade, the Davis Property, 48 Howlands Lane, 57 Main Street, Town Meeting, staff, and an update from the Superintendent. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Abatement #23-29 totaling $156.00
• Commitments #23-40 and #23-38
• Discussion of Plant Upgrade
• Discussion of Davis Property
• Discussion of 48 Howlands Lane and 57 Main Street

The Board voted to add an article to the Town Warrant for SRF Funding regarding the Davis property leaching fields. The Commission also approved a change order for blower actuators and granted a bill abatement for a town-owned property.

• Voted unanimously to add an Article to the Town Warrant for SRF Funding
• Authorized up to $30,000 for purchase and installation of three actuators (unanimous)
• Voted unanimously to abate the sewer portion of the bill for 4 Howlands Lane
• Rescheduled discussion on 48 Howlands Lane to February 28, 2023

General

The Finance Committee will meet to conduct budget reviews for several town departments for fiscal year 2024. The committee will also review meeting minutes from January 5, 2023.

• FY24 Budget Review: Council on Aging
• FY24 Budget Review: Library
• FY24 Budget Review: Recreation
• FY24 Budget Review: Inspections, Planning, and Conservation
• FY24 Budget Review: Legal Services, Selectmen, and Liability Insurance

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners is meeting to approve minutes, hear engineering updates from CEI Inc., and discuss a water bill abatement request. The board will also receive updates on the Kelleher property and the MBTA Task Force.

• Vote to approve minutes of January 31, 2023
• Engineering updates from Kristen Berger, CEI Inc., including capacity analysis, well cleaning, and SCADA updates
• Abatement request for 15 Old Orchard Lane due to high usage from cracked toilet
• Update on Kelleher Property from certified letter and email
• Update from Chairman Loring on MBTA Task Force meeting

The Board of Water Commissioners approved a $19,658 contract for dehumidifier work at Trackle Pond, funded from the third filter capital project. They also voted to fund SCADA updates via a change order with Winston Builders, and approved an abatement for a resident's high water bill due to a cracked toilet.

• Awarded dehumidifier contract to Northstar Refrigeration for $19,658 (3-0)
• Approved SCADA update funding through change order with Winston Builders (3-0)
• Approved abatement for 15 Old Orchard Lane, charging at lowest tiered rate (3-0)
• Approved minutes of January 31, 2023 (2-0-1, Kostka abstained)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will hold a public hearing on Eversource's petition to construct new transmission lines across town public ways. The board will also discuss combining the Treasurer and Collector positions, reconsider committee membership for the Kingston 300th Committee, and consider amending shellfish regulations. Several other items include beach sticker fees, vacation carryover, and a town administrator by-law discussion.

• Public hearing on Eversource transmission lines across public ways
• Discussion on combining Treasurer and Collector positions
• Reconsideration of Kingston 300th Committee membership
• Amend Shellfish Regulations
• Recommendation for Beach Sticker Fees

The Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to continue the public hearing on Eversource's request to install new transmission lines across nine public ways until February 28, 2023, after hearing resident concerns about pole size, EMF, and property values. The Board also approved several other items, including a new common victualler license for Trainwreck Taco, a $1,000 senior/veteran tax work-off benefit proposal, amended shellfish regulations with veteran discounts, 2023 beach sticker fees, a Town Administrator by-law for the Town Meeting warrant, and the hiring of Robert Brown as CDL/Laborer.

• Approved common victualler license for Trainwreck Taco, contingent on Board of Health approval (5-0)
• Continued Eversource transmission line public hearing to Feb. 28, 2023 (5-0)
• Supported warrant article to increase senior/veteran tax work-off benefit to $1,000 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 shellfish regulations with veteran discounts (5-0)
• Approved 2023 beach sticker fees as recommended by Recreation Commission (5-0)
• Approved Town Administrator vacation carryover of five additional days (5-0)
• Approved Town Administrator by-law for 2023 Annual Town Meeting warrant, with amendment removing hiring notice (5-0)
• Appointed Robert Brown as CDL/Laborer, Grade L3, Step 3, with conditions (5-0)

General

The Kingston Board of Assessors will convene to review and authorize bills for payment and motor vehicle bill commitments. The meeting includes a call to order, attendee roll, and an executive session. No substantive decisions or discussions beyond routine administrative actions are listed on the agenda.

The Kingston Board of Assessors met and approved routine administrative items, including bills and motor vehicle commitments. No substantive policy decisions were made; the board then entered executive session to discuss exemption and abatement applications.

• Approved MAAO course fee of $600.00
• Approved W.B. Mason office supply bills of $112.99 and $4.46
• Signed 2022 Commitment 7 motor vehicle commitment
• Signed 2023 Commitment 1 motor vehicle commitment
• Voted 3-0 to enter executive session for abatement discussions

General

The Kingston Board of Assessors is meeting to discuss exemption applications under state law and to discuss and decide on abatement applications. The agenda is limited to these administrative matters, with no other substantive items listed.

• Discuss exemptions pursuant to M.G.L. c30A, section 21 (a) (7) and M.G.L. c59, section 60
• Discuss and decision abatement applications

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board will meet to discuss two plan lot-line adjustments, potential zoning and bylaw amendments for Annual Town Meeting, and a public comment session on a vacant building at 121 Main Street. The meeting is open to in-person and remote attendance.

• ANR Plan Lot Line adjustment on Clifton Drive for #16 Grove Street and #2 Clifton Drive in R40 Zone
• ANR Plan Lot Line adjustment on Coopers Run for Lot 4-1 and Lot 4-2
• Consider Zoning/General Bylaw amendments for Annual Town Meeting
• 121 Main Street – vacant building – informal street-facing façade renderings for public comment

The Kingston Planning Board endorsed two ANR land swap/lot line adjustment plans, one on Clifton Drive and one on Coopers Run, both by unanimous 4-0 votes. The board also discussed a schematic for the rear of 121 Main Street, offering feedback on facade details and screening, and noted that no new uses at the Starbucks plaza will be allowed until a full parking lot circulation study is completed.

• Endorsed ANR plan for Map 34, Lots 80 and 81, Clifton Drive land swap (4-0)
• Endorsed ANR plan for Map 30, Lots 4-1 and 4-2, Coopers Run land swap (4-0)

Wage & Personnel

The Wage and Personnel Board will meet to discuss appointments for new town positions, including a Veterans' Agent, a new Parks and Recreation role, and an Animal Inspector. The board will also review job description changes in the Harbormaster Department. This meeting is primarily procedural and does not include formal decisions.

• Discussion of full-time Veterans' Agent position (Gloria Mitchell)
• New Parks and Recreation position and Schedule C-3 review (Susan Woodworth)
• Animal Inspector position and Harbormaster Department job description changes (Police Chief Maurice Splaine)

The Board assigned a Grade 5 to a proposed full-time Veterans' Agent position for FY2024. Members reviewed proposed hourly rates for a new Programs and Property Coordinator and discussed salary and title changes for the Animal Inspector and Harbormaster Department.

• Graded proposed full-time Veterans' Agent position as Grade 5
• Graded proposed part-time Programs and Property Coordinator as Grade 1
• Reviewed draft FY2024 Schedule C-3 with minimum wage increase to $15.00
• Requested written salary recommendation for Animal Inspector stipend increase to $7,321
• Requested updated job descriptions for Harbormaster Department positions

Conservation Commission

The Kingston Conservation Commission is meeting to discuss enforcement items, sign documents, review meeting minutes, and hold public hearings regarding wetland resource areas. Public hearings include a proposed addition at 8 Smelt Pond Road and the demolition and construction of a single-family home at 23 Spruce Street.

• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for 8 Smelt Pond Road (Map 89 Lot 18) for an addition near a wetland (requested continuation to Feb. 22, 2023)
• Public Hearing: Notice of Intent for 23 Spruce Street (Map 38 Lot 72) to raze and construct a new single-family dwelling near a wetland
• Enforcement item regarding 164 Pembroke St
• Signatory Authorization action item
• Update on Mulliken's Reimbursement

The Kingston Conservation Commission continued two public hearings to February 22, 2023: one for an addition at 8 Smelt Pond Road and one for razing/rebuilding a home at 23 Spruce Street, both within 100 feet of wetland resource areas. The commission also discussed but did not finalize signatory authorization for the Conservation Agent, requesting changes to the proposal. No meeting minutes were approved, and the town received reimbursement for the Mulliken's Landing DCR Trails Grant.

• Continued hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Road NOI to Feb. 22, 2023 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 23 Spruce Street NOI to Feb. 22, 2023 (6-0)
• Signed previously approved ORAD for Cushman Drive and Thomas Street
• Signed bills
• Discussed signatory authorization for Conservation Agent; changes requested, re-submission pending
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to discuss a plant upgrade and a proposed change order from CDM Smith. The board will also review appointments and abatement requests for specific properties.

• CDM Smith Proposed Change Order #6
• Abatement request for 21 West Ave.
• Abatement request for 15 Old Orchard Lane
• Appointments for 48 Howlands Lane and Sacred Heart property
• DEP Proposed draft new Title V Regulations

The Board of Sewer Commissioners approved two requests for sewer bill abatements due to leaks. The board discussed proposed residential projects at 48 Howlands Lane and the Sacred Heart property, but deferred decisions to a future meeting.

• Approved bill abatement for 21 West Ave to 5,000 gallons for a total of $67.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved bill abatement for 15 Old Orchard Lane to 23,000 gallons for a total of $254.20 (Unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss proposed regulations regarding the keeping of non-commercial farm animals. The board will also continue discussions on the Emergency Response Team and receive a grant committee update.

• Consideration of proposed draft regulations for Keeping of Non-commercial Farm Animals
• Discussion on Emergency Response Team
• Update on Shared Excellence Grant Committee meeting

The Board of Health voted 4-0 to schedule a public hearing to consider adopting the Keeping of Non-Commercial Farm Animals regulations drafted by the Agricultural Commission. The board will review each regulation individually at the hearing. The board also approved seven septic plans, noted three tobacco violations, and accepted the January 4, 2023 meeting minutes.

• Scheduled public hearing for adoption of Non-Commercial Farm Animals regulations (4-0)
• Approved septic plans for 6 Autumn Lane, 27 Charles Drive, 2 Coopers Run, 79 Elm Street, 55 Longwood Circle, 32 Nava Landing, 20 West Street
• Accepted January 4, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Recessed to executive session to discuss personnel matter (4-0)

Board of Health

The Board of Health is meeting to enter an executive session. The session is designated to discuss the character, health, or discipline of an individual or public employee.

• Executive session to discuss reputation, character, physical condition, or mental health of an individual
• Executive session to discuss discipline, dismissal, or complaints against a public officer, employee, staff member, or individual

Wage & Personnel

The board is meeting to conduct strategy sessions regarding the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study. These sessions are intended to prepare for negotiations with non-union personnel.

• Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study strategy sessions
• Review and approval of executive session minutes

General

The Finance Committee will meet to review proposed departmental budgets for FY24, including the Board of Health, Town Clerk, Election and Registration, Human Resources, Veterans Benefits, and Council on Aging. The meeting also includes approval of January 5, 2023 minutes and an open forum for public comments.

• FY24 Departmental Budget Review for Board of Health, Town Clerk, Election and Registration, Human Resources, Veterans Benefits, and Council on Aging

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on two special-permit applications at its February 1, 2023 meeting. The board will also vote to approve minutes from its prior three meetings. No substantive decisions are scheduled beyond the two public hearings.

• Special permit for Cartec Collision to operate a motor-vehicle sales facility at 132 Pembroke St
• Special permit for Daniel Pepe to add a 26×20 addition to a single-family home at 8 Smelt Pond Rd

The Zoning Board of Appeals held a brief meeting with only one member present, Robert Mullen, due to absences. No decisions were made; two continued hearings were rescheduled to February 15, 2023, and later to March 1, 2023, due to cancellations.

• Continued hearing for Cartec Collision at 132 Pembroke St. to Feb. 15, 2023
• Continued hearing for Daniel Pepe at 8 Smelt Pond Road to Feb. 15, 2023

Board of Water Commissioners

The Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes, hear engineering updates on the Grassy Hole I-86 Treatment Plant, and receive a departmental update. They will also discuss correspondence regarding abatement requests sent to residents. No new business was requested.

• Engineering updates on Grassy Hole I-86 Treatment Plant, including SRF update, well cleaning, and capacity analysis
• Punchlist update from Comprehensive Environmental Inc. on the treatment plant
• Abatement request letters sent to William Watson (6 Pico Ave), Tara Kislauskis (30 Cole St), and Rocky Nook-Brewster Park Comm Assoc (21 West Ave)
• Approval of minutes from January 17, 2023

The Board of Water Commissioners approved up to $20,000 to repair the dehumidifier at Trackle Pond, contingent on funds being found within the current budget. The board also discussed the Thorndike Development at Sacred Heart High School, with members expressing concern about the project's water supply and planning. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting included updates on engineering, the I-86 treatment plant, and departmental operations.

• Approved $20K for Trackle Pond dehumidifier repair, contingent on budget availability (2-0)
• Approved minutes of January 17, 2023 (2-0)
• Signed department bill schedules
• Adjourned meeting (2-0)

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will hold its regular meeting on January 31, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Room 200 of the Town House and via Zoom. The agenda includes appointments, a request to hold the Ragnar Relay event, amendments to Council on Aging van driver hours, adoption of a dog policy, and several administrative items such as accepting donations and resignations. The board will also open the Annual Town Meeting Warrant and approve licenses and appointments.

• Request from Amber Sadlier to hold Ragnar Relay event on May 20, 2023
• COA Advisory Board request to amend van drivers hours
• Review and adoption of Council on Aging Dog Policy
• Approval of annual license renewal for Guest House
• Appointments to Kingston 300th Committee and Rent Control Board

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel board scheduled a meeting for Monday, January 30, 2023, at 6:00 PM at the Town House and via Zoom. The agenda consists solely of calling to order and immediately recessing into an executive session to discuss the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study for contract negotiations with non-union personnel, as well as reviewing and approving executive session minutes, with no return to open session.

• Discussion of the Town of Kingston Classification and Compensation Study for negotiations with non-union personnel in executive session
• Review and approval of executive session minutes

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review several Notices of Intent for residential construction near wetland resource areas. The board will also discuss enforcement at one property and provide updates on grant reimbursements.

• Public hearing for an addition to a dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road
• Public hearing for razing and rebuilding a dwelling at 23 Spruce Street
• Public hearing for wetland flagging review at 33 Cushman Drive & Thomas Street
• Enforcement item for 164 Pembroke St
• Updates on DCR Trails and CPC Land Grant reimbursements

The Commission approved a Negative 3 Determination for revetment wall repairs at Braintree Ave and issued an Order of Resource Area Delineation for Cushman Drive and Thomas Street. Several other residential projects and an enforcement matter were continued to the February 8 meeting.

• Approved Negative 3 Determinations of Applicability for revetment wall repairs at 8-10 Braintree Ave (5-0-0)
• Issued Order of Resource Area Delineation for 33 Cushman Drive & Thomas Street (7-0-0)
• Continued enforcement matter for 164 Pembroke St to February 8, 2023 (7-0-0)
• Continued Notice of Intent for 8 Smelt Pond Road to February 8, 2023 (7-0-0)
• Continued Notice of Intent for 23 Spruce Street to February 8, 2023 (7-0-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to authorize payments for office bills and January tax abatements. The board will also review and authorize the FY23 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT).

• Review and authorization of January Abatements
• Review and authorization of FY23 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT)
• Review of office bills for payment authorization

The Board of Assessors met and approved routine administrative items, including bill payments, the January 2023 abatement report, and the FY2023 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT). They also authorized meeting minutes from December 13, 2022, and entered executive session to discuss exemption/abatement applications. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved bill payments totaling $1,980.13 (3-0)
• Authorized January 2023 abatement report (3-0)
• Signed FY2023 PILOT agreement (3-0)
• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss abatement applications (3-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to authorize January tax abatements and the FY23 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT). The board will also review betterment commitments and bills for payment.

• Authorization of January abatements
• Authorization of FY23 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT)
• Review of betterment commitments
• Review of bills for payment authorization

Board of Health

The Kingston Board of Health will hold a meeting at the Town House on January 24, 2023. The agenda consists of calling the meeting to order and immediately recessing into an executive session to conduct strategy sessions or contract negotiations with non-union personnel, with no return to open session.

• Executive session for strategy or negotiations with non-union personnel

Board of Assessors

The Kingston Board of Assessors is holding a meeting at 26 Evergreen St to discuss and decide on abatement applications and review exemption applications in executive session. The board will also review meeting minutes from December 13, 2022.

• Discussion and decision on abatement applications
• Discussion of exemption applications pursuant to M.G.L. c30A, section 21 (a) (7) and M.G.L. c59, section 60
• Review of December 13, 2022 Executive Session meeting minutes

The Board of Assessors approved several financial items including bills, meeting minutes, and the January abatement report. They also signed the FY23 PILOT agreement. In executive session, they approved multiple veteran and senior exemptions and granted or denied real estate and personal property abatements as listed.

• Approved bills including Vision ($450), CAI Technologies ($862.50), Tyler Technology ($652), and travel reimbursement ($15.63)
• Authorized December 13, 2022 open session minutes
• Authorized January 2023 abatement report
• Signed FY23 Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT)
• Approved 5 veteran (22a) exemptions (3-0)
• Approved 2 veteran (22E) exemptions (3-0)
• Approved 1 veteran (22D) exemption (3-0)
• Approved 4 senior (41C) exemptions (3-0)

Planning

The Kingston Planning Board is meeting to discuss several items, including a proposal by developer Scott Spencer for a daycare and drive-thru at 121-124 Main Street, an administrative site plan review for a new tenant at 132 Pembroke Street, and draft zoning amendments for a warrant. The board will also discuss the 40B Omnibus Bill with Senator Moran.

• Discussion with developer Scott Spencer on traffic, parking, and architecture for daycare/drive-thru at 121-124 Main Street
• Discussion of 40B Omnibus Bill with Senator Moran
• Administrative Site Plan Review for new tenant at 132 Pembroke Street (same use)
• Review of draft zoning amendments for warrant

The Kingston Planning Board discussed the proposed Dunkin' Donuts at 121 Main Street, raising concerns about parking, traffic, and building appearance. The board required the owner to submit a circulation plan before any approval, and all parties agreed to work together. The board also recommended renewing the administrative site plan permit for 132 Pembroke Street and discussed potential zoning changes for the upcoming town meeting.

• Required owner to submit a circulation plan before Dunkin' Donuts can open (unanimous)
• Recommended renewal of administrative site plan permit for 132 Pembroke Street
• Discussed potential zoning changes for upcoming town meeting (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals will hold two public hearings. The first is for a special permit and variances to construct two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. The second is for a special permit to expand a nonconforming single-family dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road. The board will also approve meeting minutes.

• Public hearing for special permit and variances to build two 6-unit apartment buildings at 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St.
• Public hearing for special permit to add a 26x20 addition to a single-family dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road.
• Meeting minutes approval.

The Kingston Zoning Board of Appeals met on January 18, 2023, but due to technical difficulties with Zoom, the board could not conduct hearings. Chairman Paul Dahlen and several members were absent, leaving only Robert Mullen in attendance. Mullen continued both scheduled hearings to future dates: the 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. apartment project to March 1, 2023, and the 8 Smelt Pond Road addition to February 1, 2023. No substantive decisions were made.

• Continued 1 Tremont St. and 163 Summer St. special permit hearing to March 1, 2023, at 7:00 PM
• Continued 8 Smelt Pond Road special permit hearing to February 1, 2023, at 7:05 PM

Board of Selectmen

The Kingston Board of Selectmen will meet to discuss and potentially act on several items, including a request to expend ARPA funds, adoption of a new dog policy for the Council on Aging, and approval of a one-day liquor license for a charity hockey event. The board will also hear a presentation from the Affordable Housing Trust and consider a financial assistance application. The meeting includes routine announcements and reports.

• Request to expend ARPA funds
• Adoption of new Dog Policy for Council on Aging
• One-day liquor license for charity hockey event on Jan 28, 2023 at Bog Ice Rink
• 24th Annual Best Buddies Challenge cycling event on June 3, 2023
• Acceptance of resignation from Assistant Conservation Agent and Executive Secretary for Finance Committee

The Board of Selectmen approved the expenditure of $368,250 in ARPA funds for two public safety communication projects: converting police and fire channels to digital and creating a municipal radio system. The board also approved a one-day liquor license for a charity hockey event, a request for the Best Buddies cycling event, a financial assistance application, and several other routine items. A new dog policy for the Council on Aging was skipped and will be on a future agenda.

• Approved $368,250 ARPA expenditure for digital radio conversion and municipal radio system (5-0)
• Approved Best Buddies Challenge cycling event on June 3, 2023, with conditions (5-0)
• Approved one-day liquor license for charity hockey event at Bog Ice Rink (5-0)
• Approved $1,599.25 financial assistance from Arthur F. Wadsworth Charity Fund (5-0)
• Accepted resignations of Assistant Conservation Agent and Finance Committee Executive Secretary (5-0)
• Approved annual license renewals as presented (5-0)
• Accepted donations to Veteran's Services Department (5-0)
• Accepted Spring Town Meeting timeline as amended (5-0)

Wage & Personnel

The Kingston Wage and Personnel Board will meet to review the status of FY24 bylaw amendment requests, discuss changes to Schedules A through C, and receive an update from the Human Resources Manager. The board will also review minutes and plan the next meeting. An executive session is scheduled to discuss the Classification and Compensation Study for non-union negotiations.

• Review status of Bylaw amendment requests for FY24
• Discuss changes to Schedules A through C
• Update from Human Resources Manager Tina Betti
• Executive session on Classification and Compensation Study for non-union negotiations
• Board seeks third member appointed by Finance Committee

The Board approved updates to Schedule C-1 to align hourly rates with the Massachusetts state minimum wage. Members scheduled appointments to review further bylaw amendment requests for FY2024. The Board also approved minutes from September and November 2022.

• Approved Schedule C-1 hourly rate increases to $15.00 (unanimous)
• Approved November 1, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 19, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to recess to Executive Session to discuss Classification and Compensation Study (unanimous)

General

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners will meet to approve minutes and bills, hear updates on the Grassy Hole/I-86 Treatment Plant and Trackle Pond Treatment Plant, discuss cell tower leases, and consider several water bill abatement requests. The agenda includes appointments with contractors and a Boy Scout, as well as new business items such as correspondence about water concerns and grant inquiries.

• Sprint/T-Mobile termination of lease at Pembroke St Tank effective 2/28/23
• Painting subbid claim for valve painting at Trackle Pond Treatment Plant
• Dehumidifier quotes for Trackle Pond Treatment Plant
• Abatement requests for William Watson (57 Main St), Tara Kislauskis (30 Cole St), and Rocky Nook-Brewster Park Comm. Association (21 West Ave)
• Revised plans for 163 Summer St/1 Tremont St (Map 20, Lot 73 & Map 27, Lot 27)

The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners approved a $69,035.37 payment to Winston Builders for the Grassy Hole/I-86 treatment plant project, and approved two water bill abatements at the lowest rate. They also allowed a Boy Scout to paint hydrants in MacFarlane Farms and approved the annual water department report. No action was taken on a third abatement request.

• Approved $69,035.37 payment to Winston Builders (3-0)
• Approved hydrant painting by Boy Scout Alex McNeil in MacFarlane Farms (2-0)
• Approved water bill abatement for William Watson, 57 Main St, at lowest rate (3-0)
• Approved water bill abatement for Tara Kislauskis, 30 Cole St, at lowest rate (3-0)
• Denied abatement for Rocky Nook-Brewster Park Comm. Association, 21 West Ave (no motion)
• Approved water department report for Annual Town Report (3-0)
• Approved minutes of Nov 9 and Nov 22, 2022 (2-0)

Wastewater/Sewer

The Sewer Commission will meet to discuss several new business items including infrastructure updates and specific property matters. The board will review a proposed change order and a request for sewer bill relief.

• Plant Upgrade
• Proposed Change Order 081
• Sewer bill relief for 21 West Ave. (Foley)
• West Ave. Abatement
• 4 Howlands Lane

The Board of Sewer Commissioners voted unanimously to add a Town Warrant article for SRF funding related to the Davis Property leaching fields, and authorized up to $30,000 for purchase and installation of three actuators for blowers. The board also unanimously abated the sewer portion of a bill for 4 Howland's Lane due to a pipe burst. An abatement request for 21 West Ave. was postponed to the next agenda due to a potential conflict of interest.

• Added article to Town Warrant for SRF Funding (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $30,000 for three actuators for blowers (unanimous)
• Abated sewer bill for 4 Howland's Lane (unanimous)
• Postponed abatement request for 21 West Ave. to next agenda

Conservation Commission

The Conservation Commission will review Notice of Intent filings for residential construction near wetlands and a resource area delineation. The board will also address enforcement at 164 Pembroke St and sign several bills for restoration and assessment work.

• Public hearing: Addition to dwelling at 8 Smelt Pond Road
• Public hearing: Razing and new construction at 23 Spruce Street
• Public hearing: Wetland delineation at 33 Cushman Drive & Thomas Street
• Enforcement action regarding 164 Pembroke St
• Payment of bills for Beals and Thomas regarding Bog Restoration, Tall Timbers, and Jones River Habitat Assessment

The Kingston Conservation Commission approved its annual report, signed several bills, and continued three public hearings to January 25, 2023. The hearings were for a Notice of Intent at 8 Smelt Pond Road, a Notice of Intent at 23 Spruce Street, and an Abbreviated Notice of Resource Area Delineation at 33 Cushman Drive. The Commission also approved the Express newspaper for public notifications and discussed the resignation of Assistant Conservation Agent Mike Perrin.

• Approved annual report (6-0)
• Approved Express newspaper for public notifications (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 8 Smelt Pond Road to Jan 25 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 23 Spruce Street to Jan 25 (6-0)
• Continued hearing for 33 Cushman Drive to Jan 25 (6-0)
• Approved minutes for 12/28/2022 (6-1), 11/9/2022 (6-0), 12/14/2022 (6-0)
• Granted continuance for enforcement at 164 Pembroke Street to Jan 25 (6-0)

Council on Aging

The Kingston Council on Aging will hold a meeting at the Senior Center on Evergreen Street to review staff and committee reports. Additional agenda items include a discussion on the FY 2023 budget for the first five months, a review of the COA Dog Policy, and information on flu and COVID-19 shots.

• Budget - First 5 months FY 2023
• COA Dog Policy
• Flu and Covid Shot Urgency
• TRIAD - Jack Sullivan

The Kingston Council on Aging advisory board approved the revised by-laws and supported Director Marybeth Lawton's plan to present them to the Board of Selectmen. The board also voted to support applying for a $2,000 Sampson Memorial Fund grant for a joint COA/Triad budget. Other items discussed included a proposed pet policy change, a $9,000 commercial dishwasher purchase using ARPA funds, and a $13,000 estimate to fix the fire suppression system.

• Approved December Secretary's report (unanimous)
• Approved revised By-Laws as written (unanimous)
• Supported presenting By-Laws to BOS for approval (unanimous)
• Supported applying for $2,000 Sampson Fund grant (unanimous)