The Kingston Waterfront Committee convened Tuesday evening, officially welcoming its newest member, Sean, to the group. Chairman Matt opened the meeting by noting, Sean has joined us tonight, so it's his first live meeting, to which Sean replied, hello guys. Harbormaster Tom provided an update on department logistics, highlighting a transition to a "no cash" payment system for permit paperwork to streamline office operations. Tom explained that residents must now utilize a new drop box or the mail for all submissions, noting that the previous habit of residents handing over envelopes of cash to various staff members was just awful. Glen helped facilitate the meeting by distributing physical copies of the updated regulations, telling a colleague, You're not going to go home empty-handed.

Motion Made by Glen to accept the minutes November 4th. Vote Passed 5-0

The committee engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the implementation of a $50 annual water usage fee for private floating docks in the river. Matt expressed reservations about the additional cost for homeowners, stating, I’m not crazy about—I mean, people with built docks, they’re already paying taxes for it, you know, and it’s not sending any more kids to the school system. Tom justified the fee as a necessary tool for the town to maintain an inventory of structures in the water, noting that neighboring municipalities like Duxbury and Marshfield already charge similar rates. Jared inquired about the transparency of the committee's records, asking, Are the recordings accessible otherwise? while a participant identified as G joined the call to suggest communal involvement, stating, I don't know. I guess you could open it up for community if they respond.

Motion Made by Jared to update regulations just make sure we change the approved date in the bottom of the header footer to today's date. Vote Passed 5-0

The meeting concluded with a progress report on the wharf revitalization project. Tom noted that the Woods Hole Group has completed subsurface boring evaluations to determine the integrity of the wharf’s foundation. The committee learned that the state grant application cycle has shifted to January, which the board hopes will keep the project on schedule for a 2028 construction phase. This phase is expected to include a new building positioned forward on the site. Finally, the committee reviewed the five-year plan, electing to push dock replacements to 2027 while maintaining the current dumpster system, which has significantly improved trash management at the waterfront.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:22 PM