Cranston City Council Committees Meeting – September 2, 2026

The City Council held a combined Public Works Committee and Ordinance Committee meeting on September 2, 2026, beginning at 6:04 PM. The meeting covered a range of topics including a permit for road work near a historic cemetery, a successful first season for the Bud Long Aquatic Complex, sidewalk funding, and new ordinances regulating short-term pool rentals. No public comments were received.

Consent Calendar

• Approval of Minutes: The committees approved the minutes of June 9, July 1, and August 5, 2026, as drafted by unanimous voice votes.

Public Comments & Testimony

• No public comments were offered, either in person or online.

Discussion Items

• RIDOT Permit for Work Near Historic Cemetery: Jacob Bijan (RIDOT Historic Preservation Specialist) and David Walsh presented a request for a permit to allow milling, overlay, and guardrail replacement on Route 37 within 25 feet of the State Farm Cemetery (Cranston Historic Cemetery #60). Bijan explained that the cemetery is buried 15–20 feet below the roadbed and that no new ground disturbance would occur. The work is limited to the existing roadway. Council members asked about protocols for any unexpected remains and confirmed that the work would not disturb the cemetery. The permit was approved with conditions requiring a construction monitor and adherence to standard specifications.
• Bud Long Aquatic Complex End-of-Season Wrap-Up: Director Piscapello reported that the pool operated for 29 days, serving 7,450 patrons (80% Cranston residents). 79 season passes were sold (74 to residents). The pool never reached its 400-person capacity; peak swimmer count was 200. No incidents or complaints were reported. Council members praised the facility and staff, noting that initial concerns about pool size were unfounded. Director Piscapello mentioned that the cashless system worked well and that no one was turned away for inability to pay (some children were admitted without payment and later paid). The pool closed for the season due to lifeguard availability. Councilman Banano suggested extending hours into September, but low attendance in evening hours was noted. Director Moretti credited Mayor Hopkins for persevering through criticism to deliver the project.
• Sidewalk Funding Update: Councilman Andujar requested an update on sidewalk funding. Director Moretti stated that $31,000 remains in the current budget for the sidewalk matching program, but infrastructure funds are exhausted. Future funding depends on voter approval of a bond in November. Council members emphasized the importance of the bond for sidewalks and roads. Councilman Banano raised questions about the sidewalk share program and responsibility for sidewalks damaged by city trees; Director Moretti said DPW can address safety issues.
• Replacement Signage on Eden Park Drive: Councilwoman Vaziri reported that no-parking signs are missing. Director Moretti indicated the signs have been ordered but the city’s sign maker is out sick, causing a delay.
• Residential Trash and Recycling Bin Maintenance: Councilman Ritz discussed resident concerns about waste management. He plans to arrange a meeting with Waste Management and the administration to address issues, and will report back at the next meeting.
• Bulky Waste Pickup Clarification: Councilman Campopiano asked for clarification on the bulky waste program. Director Renzulli explained that September is bulky waste month; residents must call in advance to schedule up to three items for pickup on their regular trash day. Items like mattresses and electronics can be taken to the DPW yard on Thursdays. The city will post updated flyers.
• Executive Session: The committee voted to enter executive session under R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-46-5(a) to discuss litigation in City of Cranston v. Shriners of Rhode Island Charities Trust. No votes were taken; the session was for an update on pending litigation.
• Ordinance Committee – Traffic-Related Ordinances: Three ordinances sponsored by Councilman Trafficante were approved and forwarded to the full council: adding a stop sign at an intersection, creating one-hour parking (8 AM–5 PM, Monday–Friday), and establishing no-parking/two-hour parking on certain streets. No traffic engineering report was available.
• Ordinance on Short-Term Rentals of Outdoor Pools and Spaces: Council President Wall and Councilman Ritz sponsored an ordinance (amending Chapter 824031) to prohibit renting out residential pools and outdoor spaces for paid events in residential areas, citing noise, safety, and quality-of-life concerns. The ordinance was modeled after a New York law. Councilman Banano added himself as co-sponsor. The committee approved the motion, noting that the ordinance number may be codified at the next council meeting.

Key Outcomes

• RIDOT Permit: Approved unanimously with conditions (motion by Council President Wall, seconded).
• Bud Long Pool Report: Received with praise; no formal action needed.
• Sidewalk Funding: No action taken; bond vote pending in November.
• Signage on Eden Park Drive: Update noted; signs expected soon.
• Trash/Recycling Issues: Continued to next meeting; meeting with Waste Management to be scheduled.
• Bulky Waste: Clarification provided; no formal vote.
• Executive Session: Entered and returned with no votes; minutes sealed.
• Ordinance 81703: Approved unanimously (forwarded to full council).
• Ordinance 81704: Approved unanimously.
• Ordinance 81705: Approved unanimously.
• Ordinance 81701 (Pool Rentals): Approved unanimously.

The meeting adjourned at 8:17 PM.