KINGSTON – January 27, 2026 – In a pivotal step toward modernizing town infrastructure and securing state funding, the Kingston Board of Selectmen voted unanimously on Tuesday to accept a comprehensive Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan. The plan, funded entirely by a state grant and prepared by the Institute for Human Centered Design (IHCD), provides a roadmap for removing physical and policy barriers across town facilities, from the Town House and local schools to public beaches and hiking trails.
The Full Story
The public hearing for the ADA Transition Plan marked the centerpiece of Tuesday’s meeting. Representatives from the IHCD, David West and Meghan Dufresne, presented a detailed audit of Kingston’s municipal buildings, parks, and digital presence. The report identified several critical areas for improvement, including the need for a public-facing grievance procedure, consistent non-discrimination notices, and physical upgrades like tactile exit signage and accessible routes in playgrounds.
“ Kingston has appointed an ADA coordinator... and it’s important to have that person in place... The overall goal is that all residents of Kingston regardless of ability feel that they know about and can participate in all that the town has to offer.” [01:01:45] — David West, IHCD
Town Planner Valerie Massard emphasized that the plan is more than just a list of repairs; it is a prerequisite for future financial assistance. “We have been told that we are not qualified for grants because we haven’t had this plan in place,” Massard noted, highlighting that the document now positions the town to apply for the Municipal ADA Improvement Grant and other state-level funding.
Beyond infrastructure, the board also moved to bolster regional mental health services. Police Chief Brian Holmes received authorization to amend a Department of Mental Health (DMH) grant to hire a second clinician. This expansion allows the “jail diversion” program to grow from a three-town partnership (Kingston, Halifax, and Plympton) to a five-town regional effort including Hanson and Carver. Holmes noted that having two full-time town employees instead of contractors would provide seven-day coverage and better consistency for residents in crisis.
The meeting also looked ahead to Kingston’s historic 300th anniversary. Committee Chair John Bartlett and member Ken Brack shared an ambitious lineup of events for 2026, including an arts festival in May, a parade in July, and the potential dedication of a new Revolutionary War memorial.
Why It Matters
For residents, the ADA plan ensures that public spaces—like Gray’s Beach and town trails—will eventually be accessible to everyone, regardless of mobility. Financially, it opens doors to state money that will offset the costs of these repairs, protecting local taxpayers. Additionally, the expansion of the police department’s mental health clinician program means faster, more specialized responses to behavioral health emergencies across the region.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: To receive and accept the ADA Transition Plan as prepared by the Institute for Human Centered Design.
Vote: 5-0 ([01:24:07])
Motion: To authorize the Police Chief to amend the DMH jail diversion program grant to include an additional clinician and enter intermunicipal agreements with Carver and Hanson.
Vote: 5-0 ([01:29:23])
Motion: To appoint Shawn Turner to the position of Streets, Trees, and Parks Superintendent.
Vote: 5-0 ([01:44:47])
Public Comment
Will Cushman, representing the Commission on Disability, expressed gratitude for the ADA Transition Plan and reminded residents that there are several vacancies on the commission for those interested in volunteering.
What’s Next
The board will meet again on February 10, 2026, to formally open the town meeting warrant. Residents should also be prepared for potential “snow and ice” budget discussions, as Town Administrator Scott Lambiase warned that recent heavy storms are putting significant pressure on the town’s winter maintenance funds.
Source Video: Kingston Meetings: Local Seen Streaming Channel