The Kingston Board of Selectmen held a significant public hearing this week to address the town’s first comprehensive Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) transition plan in years. David West and Megan DeFresne of the Institute for Human Centered Design (IHCD) presented a detailed audit of municipal facilities, identifying barriers ranging from non-compliant playground surfacing to inaccessible trails at Silver Lake Sanctuary. West emphasized the importance of the project, stating that the goal is identifying issues that need to be corrected and if there are any gaps in your policies and procedures that need to be addressed. DeFresne pointed out specific needs for outdoor spaces, noting that one of each bench in each location should have an accessible route to it. Planning representative Val noted that the plan, funded by a state grant, is a vital prerequisite for future funding, remarking we’re thrilled to have worked with IHCD to put this together for us. Selectman Missy expressed the board's commitment to the findings, adding, I think we just have to be careful about where we place things and ensure that they’re accessible. Motion Made by Don to open the public hearing. Motion Passed 5-0. Following public input, Motion Made by Missy to close the public hearing. Motion Passed 5-0. Motion Made by Missy to receive and accept the ADA transition plan as prepared by the Institute for Human Centered Design as presented. Motion Passed 5-0.

Public safety also saw a major regional expansion as the Police Chief requested authorization to amend a Department of Mental Health (DMH) grant. The amendment adds Carver and Hansen to a regional jail diversion program, allowing Kingston to employ two clinicians to serve five local towns. The Chief explained the dilemma of choosing between two phenomenal candidates, leading to the decision that we’d have two clinicians covering five towns instead of one clinician covering three towns. Kyle Pike voiced strong support for the regionalization, stating the fact that we’re getting it funded initially by a grant that I am in 100% in support of doing it at this time. Kim shared her encouragement for the department’s efforts, saying thank you for your hard work. We appreciate it and look forward to seeing more, while Don noted I'm all set. Thank you. Motion Made by Missy to authorize the police chief to amend the DMH jail diversion program grant application to include funding for an additional clinician and to begin the process to enter the intermunicipal agreements with the towns of Carver and Hansen. Motion Passed 5-0.

The meeting also focused on community celebrations and personnel stability. John Bartlett and Ken Brack provided an update on Kingston's 300th Anniversary, which will feature an art festival, a massive July parade, and the dedication of a Revolutionary War memorial to honor local veterans. Brack highlighted the cultural aspect of the festivities, saying he just thought it would be a great part of the 300th celebration to celebrate artists and creative people. During public forum, Will Kushman reminded the community that there is still about four open pos we need for about five to 13 members for the commission on disability. Additionally, the board officially named Shawn Turner as the permanent Superintendent of Streets, Trees, and Parks after his 14-month interim tenure. Turner, who was thanked by Chair Eric for his tireless work during recent snowstorms, stated it's been a pleasure working with everybody and getting stuff done. Eric also noted, I also want to take this time to thank our highway department, fire department, police, everybody who did quite a bit of work this past weekend with our larger than normal storm. Motion Made by Missy to appoint Shawn Turner to the position of streets, trees, and parks superintendent. Motion Passed 5-0.

The board rounded out the evening by updating local regulations and approving community requests. New harbor and waterways regulations were adopted, and multiple event licenses were granted for upcoming local festivals. Motion Made by Kyle Pike to adopt the changes made to the harbor and waterways regulations as presented. Motion Passed 5-0. Motion Made by Missy to approve the request from Paul Gallalagha to place a bench at Grace Beach in honor of Matthew Hamilton. Motion Passed 5-0. Motion Made by Missy to approve one-day liquor licenses for Bartending Service of New England and 42nd Brew Company. Motion Passed 5-0. Motion Made by Missy to adjourn. Motion Passed 5-0.