"But if we act as communities, it might just be enough, just in time"

Functioning well as a forum for discussion, the January meeting included a range of topics. We discussed the relationship of the Transition Town movement with local government and the role of philanthropy in Kingston currently. We reviewed some of the local activist demonstrations, particularly around climate action. A participant who had volunteered with Transition USA and spent time with in the NYC area with Transition projects brought some ideas of how best to connect with these and other like-minded initiatives.

Ulster County has contracted with Sustainable Hudson Valley to develop a feasibility study and strategic plan for a ReUse Innovation Center, very much a reflection of John Wackman’s vision. SHV has hired ReUse Consulting, a national leader in designing reuse businesses as well as in building deconstruction and creative materials management. The team is on track identifying waste streams (and repair streams) that could give rise to diversion programs and reuse oriented businesses, especially focusing on salvaged building materials but also on creative up cycling opportunities such as clothing and housewares.

The vision is to create an ecosystem of businesses with reasonable profit margins that can be mutually supportive in a common facility - while also creating synergies with existing businesses such as the Habitat ReStore and various repair shops. A stakeholder information / dialogue session is scheduled for February 7, 2023 from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. via Zoom; it will be recorded and posted on our website. To attend, register here. Interested folks can also express their views by clicking here and taking a short survey.

There will be a final public hearing for the new form based city wide zoning proposals on Monday,, February 13th at 630 in City Hall and on zoom. The 3.0 draft, released in December is available by clicking here
To see what has changed in the new draft go to https://engagekingston.com/kingston-forward Changes include more restrictions on short term rentals and increased incentives for affordable and requirements for workforce housing.

Public comment period is open until February 18th, Written comments can be sent to City Clerk Elisa Tinti at emtinti@kingston-ny.gov or mailed to her at City Hall, 420 Broadway.

The final draft of the zoning code will be reviewed under the New York State Environmental Quality Review Act. This includes the adoption of a final environmental impact statement. Following an environmental review, administrative referrals, and the public comment period, the Common Council is expected to consider the final draft for adoption in spring 2023.