The Kingston Water Commission met on January 29 to navigate a complex roadmap of infrastructure delays and looming state-mandated regulatory changes. Kristen, an engineering consultant, informed the board that the new well project has hit a snag due to winter weather, as the ground is too frozen to perform required grading for the 8-inch test well. I have to wait for an opportunity for that to free up, Kristen explained, noting that site access off Route 44 is currently obstructed by snow. While progress on the well is stalled, the Chair expressed concern over the timeline, stating, We got to be able to move the dirt to avoid getting further backlogged. A second commissioner agreed, warning, We're going to get backlogged here a bunch if the project is delayed until March.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a multi-page action plan required by a Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) consent order. The order mandates several new protocols, including a one-day-per-week watering limit starting May 1 and a total outdoor water ban during Level 1 drought advisories. To comply, the town must update its bylaws at the upcoming May Town Meeting. A board member emphasized the importance of transparency regarding these strict new rules, suggesting, It might be a wise idea when we do the budget at the annual meeting that we tell people that they should know ahead of time to avoid public frustration. Kristen clarified that the new bylaw language needs to be flexible, noting, The language for the bylaw... just needs to be able to be open enough to let you implement what's in the consent order.

The board also addressed infrastructure maintenance, specifically focusing on large water meters and leak detection. Superintendent Chris recommended a proactive approach to testing the town's largest meters to ensure accuracy and address unaccounted-for water loss. I recommend we do that as soon as possible. The big ones, Chris advised, suggesting that the initial calibrations for meters two inches and larger could be covered under the current budget. Regarding staffing, Chris announced that the Board of Selectmen had finalized the appointment of Leo Kazquez, who is set to join the department on February 2. Leo will start. He's very excited, energetic, enthusiastic to start and looking forward to [it], Chris noted.

The commissioners concluded the meeting by reviewing a subdivision plan for 314 Forest Street. To ensure future connectivity without compromising current water quality through a low-flow loop, the board decided to secure an easement through the new development for future use. Motion Made by the Chair to require an easement 20 feet in width between lots three and four extending across the residential and open space lot seven to Rabbath Road. Motion Passed 3-0. The meeting was adjourned at 4:52 PM.