The Kingston Board of Water Commissioners met with developers and department staff to review major infrastructure updates and ongoing enforcement issues. Mr. Lincoln, representing the Copper Beach development, presented revised plans aimed at improving system reliability. Lincoln explained that the change other than some of the small details, you know, the biggest one was to loop the water main using 12-inch piping as previously requested by the town. Richard W. Loring Jr questioned the accessibility of the site, asking Is Thomas Street a public way? while expressing concerns over how the town would access the private roads for emergency shut-offs. The board noted that easements would need to be meticulously recorded to ensure the town maintains control over the water infrastructure within the development.

Progress on the town’s new well project remains steady as the commission prepares for a critical pump test in February. Engineer Kristen reported that geotechnical analysis has cleared the way for standard construction, noting that at least for their preliminary analysis looks like you know a traditional type building foundation for a pump station well would be suitable at the site. Chairman Robert J. Erlandsen emphasized the need for fiscal transparency as the project moves toward town meeting, stating Until we can put some numbers to it, we're just talking pie in the sky. The board also discussed the early success of a smart meter pilot program, which can now identify specific household activities like toilet leaks or long showers through usage algorithms. Superintendent Chris noted that the technology will be a huge timesaver for real estate transactions and billing disputes.

The commission also addressed a troubling report regarding 22 Main Street, where a property owner is allegedly selling condominiums that have not been properly permitted or equipped with individual water services. Commissioner Robert R. Kostka raised concerns about potential cross-connections with a private well on the property, suggesting I don't have a problem with the concept I think we need to make sure that he clearly understands that he has to provide us a clear approval that in fact any connection between the outside well and the town and the house service is completely separate. The board warned that utility service could be terminated at the street if the property is not brought into compliance with town rules regarding multi-unit dwellings.

In personnel matters, the board moved to fill a vacant pump operator position with a highly qualified local candidate who already possesses T1 and D1 licenses. Superintendent Chris recommended the hire, saying I think he'd be a great member of the team here. Robert J. Erlandsen agreed, adding I'm glad he qualifies for pump operator when we're hiring him because like you said, we got all these classes and knowledge that he's got when he steps in the office. Finally, the board reviewed several water bill abatement requests, signaling a shift toward a stricter policy. Richard W. Loring Jr stated I absolutely think we need to be we need to tighten up whatever we're doing to ensure homeowners remain responsible for maintaining their own plumbing fixtures.

Motion Made by Richard W. Loring Jr to "update it to the first" abatement request. Motion Passed 2-0

Motion Made by Richard W. Loring Jr to approve the second abatement request. Motion Passed 2-0

Motion Made by Richard W. Loring Jr to "move to number three" and approve the third abatement request. Motion Passed 3-0

Motion Made by Richard W. Loring Jr to "abate the interest or recommend the abatement of interest" for the Evergreen Street management company due to documented mailing errors. Motion Passed 3-0