The ADA transition planning process was a key topic, with Town Planner Valerie Msar presenting an update on the ongoing project. This initiative involves the Institute for Human Centered Design (IHCD) conducting a comprehensive analysis of public access points in town facilities, complete with photographs and recommendations for upgrades. The board provided conditional acceptance of the draft report, which aims to reduce liability risks and improve the town’s eligibility for future grants. Concerns were raised about the financial implications of implementing the recommended upgrades, but it was clarified that the plan would prioritize rather than obligate immediate funding for these upgrades. The board unanimously approved the conditional acceptance of the plan, emphasizing the importance of having a documented strategy to reduce risks associated with potential complaints.

Parallel to this, the board addressed a crucial vacancy on the planning board by appointing Bob Kedar. With a four-member configuration, the planning board faced challenges in approving special permits, as unanimous agreement was required. The appointment of Kedar, who has a history of involvement in local projects like the Veterans Memorial, was unanimously approved following expressions of gratitude for his willingness to join. His addition was deemed essential for streamlining the board’s operations and enhancing its capacity to serve the community.

The meeting transitioned to a public hearing for a petition by Verizon New England and NStar Electric to install a new midspan pole on Tremont Street. The pole aims to support infrastructure upgrades for telecommunications and electric current distribution. Questions about the pole’s location were addressed satisfactorily, with assurances that no existing sidewalks would be disrupted. A similar hearing for a new pole on Gallen Road was also held, with both proposals receiving unanimous approval.

Another notable segment of the meeting was the continuation of a dangerous dog hearing concerning two dogs owned by the Goldsteens on Rabbit Road. Despite previous incidents deeming the dogs dangerous, the board confirmed that the owners had complied with all directives, including securing insurance and constructing a proper enclosure. Chief Holmes recommended no further action, and the board unanimously agreed, closing the hearing with a motion that no additional measures were necessary.

The Police Chief’s biannual update provided insights into the department’s staffing and upcoming initiatives. Currently operating with 24 staff members, the department plans to fill two additional positions. A funding allocation of $167,000 for tasers was noted, with training scheduled for September. The Chief highlighted various grants in progress, including a mental health diversion program and a comfort dog initiative supported by the district attorney, aimed at enhancing community engagement. The department’s accreditation process was also discussed, focusing on meeting national best practices standards.

The board also addressed the modification of the hawker and peddler bylaw, aimed at creating a “do not knock” registry for residents who prefer not to receive door-to-door solicitations. While some members expressed concerns about the administrative burden, others supported the proposal. A motion was made for the town administrator to work with legal counsel on revised language for the bylaw, which received unanimous support.

Additional agenda items included the approval of a new victual license for Ellis Grill, the acceptance of donations from the Friends of the Kingston Council on Aging, and the appointment of Deborah Jenkins as a new Council on Aging van driver. The board also reviewed and approved annual reappointments of board and commission members, and updates on public works projects were provided.