The board commenced by discussing the timelines for scholarship applications, which have been adjusted to accommodate changes in deadlines. The open scholarship period was set from March 1 to April 11, with decisions expected by May 2. This shift was made to align with the school calendar and ensure sufficient time for the application review process. Trustees emphasized the importance of providing ample time for students to apply, with one member noting the potential impact of tighter deadlines on the number of applicants. They agreed on meeting on April 30 to finalize decisions.

Financial concerns surrounding the scholarships were a point of discussion. There was uncertainty about the total funds available for disbursement, which was dependent on the treasurer’s confirmation. This uncertainty raised questions about how many awards could be given and whether the established funds should be viewed as accrued interest or a yearly expendable amount. One participant stressed the need to disperse funds to assist applicants rather than build an endowment. This led to reflections on past financial discrepancies and the difficulty of tracking donations, with an emphasis on better managing the fund’s resources.

Attention also turned to improving the visibility and outreach of the scholarship application process. Concerns were raised about whether the application process was effectively advertised to potential applicants. Suggestions included utilizing social media platforms, particularly Facebook, to reach a broader audience, especially parents. The reliance on word-of-mouth was noted as a limitation, and there was a consensus that more strategic communication could enhance awareness.

The board then delved into housing issues in Kingston, discussing the burgeoning real estate market and the rapid sale of properties. There was a particular focus on accessory dwelling units (ADUs), with current regulations allowing them to be no more than 900 square feet or 50% of the main house’s living space. The potential increase in ADUs due to the housing shortage was debated, along with the lengthy approval process for new housing developments. Concerns were expressed about balancing community desires for new housing with resident resistance to change, especially in maintaining neighborhood dynamics.

Further discussions highlighted the financial strain on residents due to rising property values and insurance costs. One participant shared their experience with increasing home insurance premiums, which had jumped due to reassessment of their home’s replacement cost. This trend, exacerbated by recent natural disasters, was seen as a continuing challenge. Property taxes were also discussed, with one participant noting the significant burden of a $9,000 annual tax obligation, particularly for those on fixed incomes.