Diane Bergquist

The public hearing was held to discuss proposed tax exemptions, specifically Chapter 360 Senior Tax and Veteran's Tax. Community members provided public comments both for and against the proposed measures.

Key discussions included public comments regarding the 21 Elizabeth Street Development Project and support expressed for the proposed occupancy tax increase. During the Report of Committees section, Alderman Michael Tierney moved to block vote on Resolutions 38 through 41. Resolution 42 was sent back to the committee, while all other resolutions passed with an 8-0 vote.

The agenda for this meeting included Old Business items such as an update on Transportation Grants and recommendations regarding audio quality. New Business discussions focused on the Midtown C-Town grocery store project, specifically addressing curb cuts, parking minimums, and landscaping associated with the Planning Board meeting. Other new business items included discussion of a recent pedestrian/car crash near O'Reilly and Broadway, review of an E-bike position paper, and consideration of the Albany Ave. Corridor Management Plan Request for Proposal (RFP). The RFP aims to address transportation safety, roadway design, traffic operations, and recommended project alternatives. An announcement was also made regarding the County's development of a volunteer snow clearing corps.

This speech by the Majority Leader of the Kingston Common Council outlines the strategic priorities for 2026. Key areas of focus include enhancing housing affordability and stability through updated tax abatements, stronger tenant protections, and increased development of genuinely affordable housing while curbing short-term rentals. Other priorities encompass careful management of city assets, advancing public and street safety initiatives like Vision Zero, strengthening environmental protections, modernizing city codes, and undertaking a comprehensive review of the City Charter. The plan also emphasizes fostering community trust and supporting residents amidst federal changes and immigration enforcement.

The meeting included guest presentations from Tobacco Free Action Communities (TFAC) regarding their grant-funded work on retail environments, tobacco-free outdoor air, and youth engagement, as well as a presentation from Taylor Bush of Oxford House concerning their self-run, sober living homes. The commission reviewed and discussed the 2026 Action Plan, requesting commissioners submit final recommendations by the next meeting. Committee reports were provided, noting the distribution of the 2025 LWK Annual Report, ongoing work on a welcoming process, inventory of City parks, and setting goals for the Grow Well committee. Announcements included a forthcoming meeting with the Kingston Water Department regarding fluoridation and upcoming events like the Earth Fair.