The Ring Road Solar project, involving pre-existing solar arrays on cranberry bogs, appeared at the forefront of the board’s concerns. Discussions revealed that the project had been substantially constructed without the necessary electrical inspections, specifically regarding the sagging wires crossing the bogs. The wires, meant to be at a height of 10 feet, drooped dangerously low, posing a potential threat to workers. The board emphasized the need for fencing to safeguard the area and ensure compliance with electrical safety codes. Representatives from Distributed Energy Infrastructure, involved in the project, acknowledged the oversight and committed to rectifying the situation by collaborating with the Building Commissioner to address inspection deficiencies. The board expressed frustration over these lapses.

In a related matter, the board deliberated on a proposal for a fence surrounding the solar project site. Despite some skepticism from attendees about the efficacy of inspections and the lack of context in the proposal, the board approved the fencing plan, which was considered essential for public safety.

Parallel to the solar project discourse, the meeting addressed various transportation projects, with particular focus on improving high-priority intersections. The planner presented a townwide traffic assessment, emphasizing the need for safety enhancements in areas with frequent accidents. The board considered plans for two roundabouts at Exit 20, aimed at reducing collisions, with construction slated for 2027. Additionally, the intersection of Main Street and Summer Street, noted for its high accident rate, was earmarked for improvements, pending discussions with engineers and potential grant funding.

The board explored several other intersections, including Main Street and Howland Lane, with proposals for roundabouts to improve traffic flow. Engagements with the Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) were anticipated to discuss modifications at Summer Street and Green Street, focusing on crosswalk safety.

A significant portion of the meeting also covered the draft update of the accessory dwelling unit (ADU) bylaw. This update aims to establish clear guidelines for ADUs, particularly concerning setbacks and short-term rentals, before impending state regulations take effect. The planner stressed the importance of adopting the bylaw to prevent a less regulated ADU environment in compliance with state laws.

Furthermore, the board discussed the ongoing development of Kingston’s housing production plan, noting that a grant application submitted months earlier remained unresolved. The planner emphasized the necessity of progressing with the plan, potentially utilizing public benefit accounts in collaboration with the Old Colony Planning Council if the grant does not materialize. The urgency of this plan is underscored by Kingston’s current 5% compliance with the state-mandated 10% housing inventory.

The meeting concluded with updates on the court ruling regarding MBTA zoning, which validated the law but invalidated the guidelines due to improper adoption. Kingston is currently in compliance, awaiting new emergency regulations from the state housing agency. The planner proposed an incremental update to the town’s master plan, incorporating ongoing transportation planning efforts to create new sections reflecting current work. This approach aims to facilitate cost-effective updates and foster public engagement on strategic town objectives.