The board approved two new co-response clinicians, Kate Eldridge and Gabby Cohen, to work with the Kingston Police Department’s family services unit. The police chief introduced the clinicians, highlighting their extensive experience in mental health, substance use treatment, and crisis response. Eldridge and Cohen will collaborate with police officers to address mental health and substance use calls. The chief expressed enthusiasm about their contributions, emphasizing the positive impact on Kingston and neighboring communities. The discussion also covered the operational status of the family services unit, with the clinicians set to begin orientation and collaborate with various departments for a full operational rollout.

In another development, the board reviewed an after-action report on Blizzard Hernando, which severely impacted Kingston from February 22 to February 24. The report, presented by Chief Douglas, detailed the storm’s heavy snowfall, high winds, numerous power outages, and challenging travel conditions. The town’s emergency services, including police and fire departments, faced significant challenges in response efforts. Dispatchers managed around 300 calls, highlighting the operational strain. The report praised Eversource’s storm response and noted the successful mobilization of mutual aid resources.

The meeting also featured a discussion about ongoing storm preparedness, with FEMA advising residents to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours following a storm. An initial damage assessment totaling $440,000 was submitted to the state, although some costs might not be covered by FEMA. The board expressed gratitude towards department heads and staff for their effective collaboration during the storm response, with notable incidents including a plow driver struck by a falling tree limb and a successful CPR intervention during the storm.

The board accepted a generous $50,000 donation to the Kingston Council on Aging from the estate of Virginia Barbara Potter, a former resident. This unrestricted donation aims to support special projects that benefit current visitors to the senior center. The board unanimously accepted the donation, acknowledging Potter’s lasting impact on the community.

The discussion then turned to the necessity of repurposing lot 456 for police department use due to space constraints. The board considered the logistical challenges of managing vehicle storage during snow events. The police chief noted that the lot’s deed from 1911 poses no restrictions on its use, aside from maintaining a fence between properties. The board contemplated whether town meeting approval was necessary for repurposing the land and discussed the potential cost of paving it to improve accessibility.

In financial matters, the board addressed recommendations for the 2026 transfer station sticker fees. An increase in fees was proposed due to budgetary constraints and to ensure the operation becomes self-supporting. The proposal included simplifying the fee structure by consolidating seniors aged 65 and over with veterans. Illegal dumping in the town was noted to have decreased due to proactive monitoring and enforcement efforts.

Additionally, the board reviewed the shellfish license fee schedule, proposing an increased discount for veterans aged 62 and older. The motion to approve the fee recommendation, including the discount increase, passed unanimously. The board also discussed the 2026 beach sticker fees, ultimately voting to maintain the same fees as in the previous year despite concerns about potential future increases.

Finally, the meeting touched on the town’s long-term infrastructure planning. A suggestion was made to invite the water and sewer commissions to a joint meeting for a broader conversation on infrastructure planning and asset management. The board also reviewed the open session meeting minutes and received an update on the budget status, including concerns about the snow and ice deficit.