KINGSTON - December 30, 2025 - In a year-end meeting, the Kingston Board of Selectmen voted unanimously to establish a strict 24-hour speed limit of 20 mph near the elementary and intermediate schools. The Board also alerted residents to a critical data breach affecting the “CodeRED” emergency notification system and prepared for the arrival of new Town Administrator Scott Lambiase.
The Full Story
The Board of Selectmen convened Tuesday evening to finalize public safety measures and administrative business before the new year. The most impactful decision was the establishment of a “Safety Speed Zone” on 2nd Brook Street, serving the Kingston Elementary and Intermediate Schools.
Unlike traditional school zones that only enforce reduced speeds during arrival and dismissal times, this new zone will enforce a 20 mph speed limit 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Town Planner Valerie Massard explained the reasoning, noting that the area is “used for more than just school functions,” necessitating constant traffic calming measures. The signage has already been installed per an engineered plan, and this vote grants the police the authority to enforce it immediately.
Emergency System Outage Chairman Eric Crone opened the meeting with a sobering announcement regarding public safety communications. The “CodeRED” public notification system, utilized by the town, has suffered a data breach.
“The Sheriff’s Department is working on a resolution that includes replacement of the system with another vendor. So until a replacement is complete, we will not have a notification platform available.” — Chair Eric Crone
New Leadership & Development The meeting also marked the transition to new town leadership. Interim Town Administrator George Samia reported that incoming Town Administrator Scott Lambiase visited Town Hall earlier that day and is set to officially start his role on Monday. The Board is planning a “meet and greet” for residents to welcome him in the near future.
In development news, Town Planner Valerie Massard announced during the open forum that a contract has been signed with the state to begin cleanup work at the old fire station. Residents can expect to see contractors on-site over the coming months as they prepare the property for future use.
Why It Matters
The new speed zone represents a significant change for drivers on 2nd Brook Street. Commuters accustomed to standard speed limits outside of school hours must now adhere to 20 mph at all times or face fines. Meanwhile, the outage of the CodeRED system leaves the town temporarily without its primary method for mass emergency alerts, urging residents to stay vigilant and check the town website for updates until a new vendor is secured.
Official Minutes & Data
Key Motions & Votes
Establishment of Safety Speed Zone
Motion: To accept the establishment of a safety speed zone as presented (20 mph, 24/7 on Second Brook St).
Vote: 5-0 ([42:39])
Annual Town Election Date
Motion: To set the 2026 annual town election date as Saturday, May 16, 2026.
Vote: 5-0 ([45:33])
Cape Cod Getaway MS Bike Ride
Motion: To approve the request for the annual MS Bike Ride on June 27, 2026, subject to MassDOT permits and police details.
Vote: 5-0 ([43:18])
Police Donation Acceptance
Motion: To accept a $200 donation from Thomas Shea for the police department’s community outreach revolving fund.
Vote: 5-0 ([44:40])
Delegation of Open Meeting Law Complaint
Motion: To delegate the response to the Open Meeting Law complaint filed by Patrick Higgins (Dec 18, 2025) to Town Counsel.
Vote: 5-0 ([46:00])
Public Comment
Valerie Massard (Town Planner): Announced that a contract has been executed for the cleanup of the old fire station, with work commencing soon.
What’s Next
New Town Administrator: Scott Lambiase begins his tenure on Monday.
Notifications: The town is awaiting a replacement vendor for the CodeRED system.
Next Meeting: Scheduled for January 13, 2026.