Kathleen Barrette

The Committee met to review resubmitted applications previously discussed at the January meeting; the Adams Center application was formally withdrawn. Discussion focused on the Steven Drew Heritage House Rehabilitation Project, where applicants provided updates on public accessibility clarifications, including coordination for an annual open house, participation in the Town's 300th anniversary tour, and ongoing historical research. The Committee also reviewed the rehabilitation application for the Gray's Beach Park Community Tennis & Basketball Courts, including legislative clarification regarding the use of CPA funds for rehabilitation and details on ongoing maintenance and the useful life of new court surfaces. No final votes were taken, with final decisions deferred to the March 5, 2026 meeting.

The meeting involved the review and unanimous approval of the 2025 Year End Report. The Commission unanimously approved an expenditure of $150 to renew the NAPC membership dues. Discussions covered scheduling future historic presentations in 2026, including topics related to a forthcoming 300th book publication and archeological findings regarding Wampanoag presence. The Commission addressed an emerging insurance issue where homeowners reported coverage cancellations due to properties being on the MACRIS list or Historic Registry. Continuing business included updates on the Old Burying Ground cleanup efforts and planning for the 300th anniversary Gala and associated events. A recommendation was made to use Potassium Nitrate for stump removal in the Old Burying Ground, pending DPW funding consultation. Additional business included advising the library on procedures for exterior work on the Adams Building and researching potential underground railroad stops in town.

The committee discussed the acceptance of late capital requests, voting to consider any valid requests submitted between January 1, 2026, and February 25, 2026. Discussions continued regarding the Town's overall capital plan and finances across multiple departments. The Water Department detailed needs including well cleaning, pump replacement for the South Street Well, progress on a new well estimated at $5M, and maintenance for the Smiths Lane tank, including OSHA compliance upgrades. The Police Department discussed replacing two of its oldest vehicles and a motorcycle, and emphasized the critical need to upgrade their server system, proposing a joint two-way backup system with the Fire Department due to a recent server meltdown. The Police Department also plans a Sergeant Office retro-fit. The Planning Department provided updates on various grant-funded projects, such as sidewalks and crosswalks on Main Street and Green Street, and discussed the status of cleaning up contamination at the former Maple Street Fire Station property to create a buildable lot. The Fire Department reviewed updates on apparatus, equipment, and leases, highlighting the high priority of server replacement, and discussed the anticipated cost of a remount ($485K) and Station 1 roof replacement.

The meeting agenda for the Capital Planning Committee includes announcements, continued discussion of the Town's Overall Capital Plan and Finances, supporting appointments for the Recreation Department, Representatives of the Kingston Schools, and Information Technology (Town Administrator), a review of meeting minutes, Capital Planning Bylaw discussion, scheduling of future meetings, and member comments, questions, and concerns.

The Town of Kingston's 2024-2025 Strategic Goals and Objectives plan outlines key priorities for enhancing municipal operations and community development. The plan focuses on improving administrative and financial efficiency, including optimizing service delivery, managing fiscal resources, and updating financial forecasts. Additionally, it aims to improve communication with residents, advance critical capital improvements for infrastructure and public safety, and promote economic development through supportive planning and business engagement to ensure fiscal responsibility, enhance public services, and foster sustainable growth.