The Kingston Sewer Commission addressed a growing staffing crisis and chronic equipment failures during its January 6 session. Superintendent Dave updated the board on the plant’s operations, noting that while the facility is providing great treatment, the department is running on empty due to staff injuries and a lack of hiring progress. Dave highlighted that the department is currently operating with two injured employees—one on long-term leave and another on light duty—which has forced the team into a non-sustainable seven-day work schedule. Chair Elaine Fiori voiced her concern regarding the lack of response from human resources, telling the superintendent, Keep us posted on that status because you’re in a critical situation.

To address the frequent clogging caused by flushable wipes, the commission is moving forward with the purchase of a $2,200 specialized debris basket. Dave explained that the unit, a horizontal bar screen, will catch rags before they reach the pump, allowing for manual cleaning instead of expensive crane-assisted maintenance. Member Dono asked for specifics on the hardware, inquiring, How deep? Like 4 in or 6 in or while Bill Watson sought clarification on the investment, asking, Now what’s something like this cost? Dave confirmed the price and suggested that if the unit proves successful, it could solve similar issues at the Marion Drive station.

The commission also evaluated long-term infrastructure goals, including a proposed expansion to protect town wells and support industrial growth near Marian Drive. Dave warned that the current staffing shortage has stalled essential station assessments required for the FY27 capital improvement budget. We haven’t been able to go out and find our work that we want to do to anticipate future problems before they become problems, Dave reported. Bill Watson questioned the condition of local septic systems during the expansion talk, asking, Is it really? when failures were mentioned. The project is expected to involve over 13,000 feet of new gravity sewer line.

Additionally, the commission discussed administrative shifts, including the first day of new Town Administrator Scott Lambiase. Concerns were raised regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that includes disciplinary language that union representatives may want to review. Brian, providing data for the annual town report, noted that the town processed 123 million gallons this year—a 2.8% increase over the previous year. If there’s any info you need additionally to what’s there, just let me know and I can get that to you, Brian told the board.