In a notable item of discussion, it was announced that the town of Kingston has been awarded a $166,632 grant from Coastal Zone Management. This funding is earmarked for the second phase of a comprehensive waterfront project. The plans include upgrades to the wharf and parking areas, with a particular focus on adapting to environmental challenges such as sea level rise and storm surges. This initiative comes in response to recent king tides that nearly overtopped local seawalls and wharves.

Particular emphasis was placed on the need to raise the harbor master office, which currently sits on stilts, by two to three feet. This adjustment aims to mitigate the risks posed by future environmental changes while maintaining the office’s visibility for safety reasons. The project’s scope entails a structural assessment of the relatively young wharf to ensure it can accommodate the planned modifications. Permitting requirements were acknowledged, with a preliminary meeting scheduled to discuss these aspects, involving Coastal Zone Management and stakeholders like the Woods Hole Group.

Although the grant covers assessments, it does not include construction costs, prompting concerns about budget overruns if the modifications exceed initial estimates. Additionally, there was a discussion about potentially relocating the harbor master office to enhance visibility and safety, with varying opinions on its final design and height.

The meeting also delved into a broader five-year plan for the waterfront. This includes proposals for new docks and parking lots, with ideas like a dinghy dock to improve access and maintenance. While some members expressed support, others flagged potential complications such as feasibility, costs, and permitting challenges, particularly given the estimated $11,000 to $12,000 cost per dock section.

Further complicating matters are discussions about installing pilings to stabilize the main dock, which have stalled due to financial constraints and competing priorities. The dialogue referenced past site visits and consultations with planning and conservation groups to chart the best course for these improvements.

Another issue discussed was the need to replace the engine on the Parker, a critical piece of harbor equipment. The meeting unveiled plans to include a $32,000 funding request in the warrant for the upcoming fall town meeting. The aim is to complete the work by spring, with funding sourced from the waterways fund, thus sparing taxpayers from direct costs. The board emphasized communicating the implications of this funding request to the community, noting the past success of similar proposals.

Amid these discussions, there was a lighter moment where a member humorously noted the tendency of at least one dissenting vote in town meetings, despite overall consensus.

The meeting also touched on the challenges of fostering community engagement. Despite existing resources like a website and local notices, community participation remains limited. This discussion led to the suggestion of a listserv to improve communication among slip holders and address issues like unidentified kayak ownership. However, concerns were raised about managing such a system effectively. The lack of community input was apparent, with only one individual reaching out previously from the river.

Finally, the meeting covered procedural matters, such as reviewing and approving minutes from the previous meeting, and discussions about meeting schedules. It was agreed that Tuesdays would remain the regular meeting day. The process for potential new board members, like Sean, was outlined, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding before any commitments.