The meeting began with a discussion about ongoing efforts to preserve and restore gravestones and monuments within the town’s historic burial grounds. Members stressed the importance of adhering to the town’s burial ground master preservation plan, which serves as a guide for prioritizing restoration efforts. It was noted that funding had been secured for the restoration of gravestones from both the Revolutionary War and Civil War eras. However, there was a need to prioritize which gravestones required immediate attention based on their condition, as determined by a prior assessment conducted by preservation specialists.

Participants emphasized the necessity for careful and professional handling of the gravestones, particularly those made from fragile materials like slate and marble. Given the potential liability concerns, it was agreed that volunteer involvement in the restoration process would need to be strictly supervised. One member humorously noted the weight of the stones, remarking on the impracticality of transporting them without proper equipment.

The board discussed the possibility of training sessions for volunteers, focusing on safe gravestone cleaning methods. A local stone restoration company expressed willingness to conduct such a session, which would cover the use of chemical solutions and protective equipment. While there was some debate about the timing of this training, a preference emerged for scheduling it in the spring to allow for more focused efforts.

Attention was also given to the condition of tombs near Evergreen Cemetery. Participants highlighted issues related to structural integrity and water infiltration, referencing a previous survey that documented these concerns. The legal framework under Massachusetts General Law was mentioned.

The focus then shifted to the upcoming 300th anniversary celebrations for Kingston, with excitement expressed over several planned events. The board highlighted a book project commemorating the town’s history, with books expected to arrive shortly. Thanks to state budget earmarks, the book will be priced at an accessible $35. A kickoff celebration is planned for December 4th at the 42nd Brewery, where a special beer labeled for Kingston will be sold, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the 300th committee.

Further commemorative events include a gala scheduled for January 31st, featuring dinner, music, and a silent auction. Tickets for the gala are priced at $75. Additionally, a fireworks display is set for September 19th, with a rain date of September 26th, and a proclamation ceremony planned for June 27th to honor the town’s incorporation. A stone memorializing Revolutionary War veterans is also under consideration for this ceremony.

The meeting also touched on financial matters, with the board acknowledging a $65,000 grant from the Community Preservation Act for various projects. Discussions centered on the need for estimates for wiring or bracing a specific tree near the townhouse and the potential for community involvement in cemetery cleanup efforts. The board considered organizing a cleanup day, possibly involving local scout groups, with safety concerns noted due to the cemetery’s delicate nature.

There was a brief mention of a recent planning board meeting concerning Main Street, although attendance was low among the selectmen. Feedback from attendees was gathered, but the meeting’s direction and how the input would be compiled remained unclear.