The Kingston 300th Committee met to finalize logistics for the upcoming anniversary gala, which is now only ten days away. Committee Chair John Bartlett opened the meeting with positive financial news, noting that the committee’s efforts have started to pay off. Bartlett announced, We can we can say that technically we've been awarded a $1,300 cultural council grant for the art show. Beyond the grant funding, the gala is seeing strong community interest, with over 150 tickets already accounted for between online sales and paper tickets. Paula, overseeing the gala’s logistics, provided an update on the numbers, stating, I checked today. If we need to make any payments next week, we need to get it in tomorrow morning.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on maximizing the gala experience while ensuring residents remain informed about the year’s full slate of events. Chris Morano suggested selling merchandise at the gala to ensure guests have an opportunity to take home a souvenir. Morano noted, My thoughts on just reading up on silent auctions... you want everyone to come away with something if they want to. To address concerns about residents not being tech-savvy enough for QR codes, Emily Bruce asked, Is it also... possible to put like a banner or a link right on the home on kingston.gov that says, 'Click here for all 300th anniversary events'? Committee member Jana Morsy emphasized the importance of physical handouts, adding, I've just kept it on the agenda. So, if anyone's ever looking they bring a back of those, too.

Logistical preparations for the gala included the hiring of a professional photographer and the setting of a firm expenditure cap. Joseph Cunningham III introduced the idea of hiring Alec McIll to capture the evening, explaining, He's really it's more so he's kind of trying to build his own exposure. To facilitate the photographer's hire, Motion Made by Jana Morsy to use Alec McIll for being for pictures at the standard gala for $30 an hour. Vote Passed 8-0. Don Alenre reminded the group of the necessary financial protocols for reimbursements, noting, If you think you need money coming up and you're not sure, we can always take a vote for like up to an amount. Responding to this, Motion Made by Ken Brackar to allow Paula and the committee to spend upwards of $17,000 for the gala for expenditures. Vote Passed 8-0. Ken Brackar highlighted the success of digital outreach so far, stating, I think the wreck [Rec Department] is the best... we could have put up the whole flyer for the year.

Looking beyond the gala, the committee discussed the May art show and the historical tours planned for later in the year. The art show group is currently evaluating the "Show Submit" platform to streamline artist registrations and has secured five local venues. Meanwhile, the historical tour sub-committee has expanded its itinerary to ten locations. Planning for the town parade also continues, though organizers are navigating the complexities of state-owned roads and the requirements of multiple state agencies. The meeting was adjourned at 6:49 PM.