Kingston planning board reviews CJ and J Leasing drainage plans amid resident concerns

The Kingston Planning Board convened on April 15, 2025, to address several pressing issues concerning local development and land use. The meeting began with a review of the agenda, which included discussions on drainage amendments, land use requests, and compliance with existing regulations.

The board first addressed a request from CJ and J Leasing Company to amend their drainage plan for a property located at 83 125. The board determined that this request needed to be forwarded to the town engineer for further review. A motion was made and passed unanimously to allow the company to proceed with signing necessary forms pending the engineer's approval.

Next, the board discussed a proposal from CJ and J Leasing to acquire land just north of the old stove shop on Route 125 for overflow storage of refrigerated units. Concerns were raised regarding the suitability of the land, which is primarily wet and located near residential areas. Board members expressed skepticism about the feasibility of using Hillside Road for access, citing potential opposition from local residents. The board suggested that the company explore leasing options with nearby commercial neighbors instead.

The discussion then shifted to a performance bond issue related to a previous project. It was revealed that a required performance bond had not been secured before the project commenced, leading to procedural concerns. The board agreed to consult with the town’s administrative staff to establish a clearer process to prevent such oversights in the future. Additionally, it was emphasized that no occupancy permits would be issued until all necessary inspections and approvals were completed.

The meeting also touched on ongoing issues with a property owned by Torromeo, where there have been complaints from neighbors regarding insufficient buffers and compliance with site plans. The board noted that they would need to sign off on an intent to cut permit within 30 days, despite concerns about the property owner’s previous commitments to maintain buffers.

In conclusion, the Kingston Planning Board's meeting highlighted the complexities of local land use and development regulations. The board is committed to ensuring compliance with zoning laws and addressing community concerns as they navigate these ongoing issues. Future meetings will continue to focus on these matters, with an emphasis on improving procedural clarity and community engagement.