The discussion surrounding the four-day work week took center stage at the meeting. The trial, initially approved for July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025, saw the closure of townhouse operations on Fridays with extended hours from Monday to Thursday. Feedback on this arrangement was positive, with employees citing improved work-life balance as a benefit. Concerns were initially raised about accessibility to town services and potential negative perceptions amidst budget constraints. However, the board noted the absence of complaints and highlighted the competitive edge the schedule provides in recruiting new employees.

The conversation included insights from department heads, like Valerie, who praised the new schedule for fostering collaboration and attracting candidates. She emphasized that many staff members found the undisturbed time on Fridays beneficial, regardless of compensation.

Despite the positive feedback, there was some debate on whether to wait for input from a new Town Administrator before making a final decision. A member expressed concerns about the message sent to residents regarding budget issues while keeping offices closed on Fridays. Nevertheless, the consensus was that the benefits of the four-day work week, including improved employee morale and enhanced recruitment, outweighed potential drawbacks. The board agreed that oversight from department heads would be more critical than waiting for a new administrator’s insights.

Following this, the board addressed a request from Eagle Scout Josh Pek for permission to build a 10 by 10 shed at Kingston Intermediate School for the Kingston Youth Soccer Association (KYSA). Josh, who had prior approval from the school committee, explained that the shed would store equipment for on-field use. The board unanimously supported the project, recognizing the management skills such initiatives develop in young leaders and confirming that the KYSA would handle ongoing maintenance.

Additionally, the appointment of two full-time police officers from the civil service local register was sanctioned, with Lieutenant Baitman explaining the necessity to fill vacancies and reduce overtime costs.

In other matters, the board accepted a donation of $50 from John and Katherine Coco for the Kingston Council on Aging and appointed three new members to the cultural council. The resignation of Paul Armstrong as the ADA coordinator was acknowledged, with Patricia Tucker appointed as his successor. The board discussed the integration of the ADA coordinator role into the responsibilities of the building inspector, a position currently vacant.

The meeting also touched on future fiscal planning, with members discussing potential budget increases for schools and the implications of not securing adequate funding. Concerns were raised about the consequences of budget cuts.

As the meeting concluded, reminders were issued about the Veterans Day ceremony on November 11 and a special election on November 15 for funding partial roof repairs at the elementary school. The board expressed concerns about voter turnout, noting the challenge of engaging the community in the election process.