Public Meetings - Newport, Rhode Island

The City Council met on August 27, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The meeting began with a moment of silence for Arthur Paiva and Judge Frank Caprio. The council approved the consent calendar (with items B1 and E pulled for separate discussion), considered multiple ordinances on second reading, heard public testimony on a special event impact fee, approved a new harbormaster patrol vessel and a composting contract, continued two utility pole petitions, withdrew a purchasing policy amendment, and passed a resolution requesting a meeting with RIDOT regarding the Pell Bridge realignment. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (with Councilor Pinnock recusing): Minutes of July 23 and July 30, 2025; Special events (items B2–B8); Beach Commission “State of the Beach” assessment (received); Request to partner with Salve Regina University for an Easton’s Beach economic impact study (received and referred to administration); Block party on Blackwell Place (item E) was pulled for discussion and approved subject to details with administration. - Item B1 (Fab Newport Fall Secret Garden Tour): Approved after brief presentation by Steve Heath. Dates: September 5–7, 2025, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. - Item E (Blackwell Place Block Party): Applicant Bradley Hawksworth answered questions. Councilor Smythe confirmed neighbors were notified and traffic impact minimal. Approved subject to details with administration. Party date: August 31, 2025, 9 a.m.–9 p.m. Public Comments & Testimony - On Ordinance 14 (Special Event Impact Fee – Second Reading): Several nonprofit representatives spoke in opposition: - Deb Lengel (Trinity Church pumpkin patch) stated her 16-year-old fundraiser would face a $2,000 fee, which would be “detrimental.” - Whitney Clark (Newport Classical) said the fee would increase costs for her organization by approximately $4,000 in July alone, at a time when federal and state arts funding is being cut. - The COO of the International Tennis Hall of Fame argued the fee is “short-sighted,” noting the organization pays over $350,000 in property taxes and brings tens of millions in economic impact. Councilor Carlin questioned whether the Hall of Fame should be grouped with smaller nonprofits and raised issues about prior parking restrictions imposed during events without council approval; the city manager did not have details. Discussion Items - Ordinances (Items 14–21): Council agreed to move the ordinances to after the consent calendar. Item 14 (General Fee Schedule amendment) was debated. Councilor Segley recused from making the motion; Councilor Carlin made a motion to bring it forward to allow public comment. After testimony, a motion to approve failed for lack of a second. Item 15 (FOP contract) approved unanimously. Items 16–21 (parking and stop sign amendments) were approved on second readings, with Councilor Carlin noting concerns over lack of community input on the Spring/Bowery/Young stop signs but voting yes after hearing from Sergeant Head that installation would begin next week. - Licenses and Permits: Pedicab business renewal for Andrew Croan (Pedi-Power Pedicabs, LLC, 6 pedicabs valid May 1, 2026 – April 30, 2028) approved unanimously. - Board of License Commissioners: Council adjourned as Council and convened as Board; consent calendar approved unanimously (Class F-1 license for Landing Seafood Fest and d/b/a change for The Wharf Southern Kitchen). - Communications from the City Manager: - Item 6486 (Black Earth Compost Contract): Approved 6–1. Two-year residential curbside composting program for up to 1,500 households; $499,220 funded by a $475,000 grant from 11th Hour Racing and a $30,000 city match. Director Kreen confirmed current subscribers (350) will be included as early adopters. - Item 6487 (Harbormaster Patrol Vessel): Approved 6–1. Contract with North River Boats of Oregon for $453,646.11 for a new patrol vessel (18-month lead time). Harbormaster Land described advantages: diesel engine, jet propulsion, 25+ year life, ability to tow up to 120-foot boats. Councilor Carlin voted no, calling it “irresponsible spending” given tax increases and other needs; others supported, noting the vessel is funded by the Maritime Fund (enterprise fund) fees, not general taxes. The existing 2006 boat will be donated to the police department for a marine program. - Item 6488 (Perrotti Park Project Supplemental): Approved 6–1. $644,215 supplemental agreement with GZA for construction management services for the bulkhead/seawall project; contract extended to June 30, 2028. Councilor Carlin voted no, questioning why funds were being spent before bond issuance in January 2026. - Item 6489 (Utility Pole – Ruggles Avenue): Continued to next meeting by a 6–1 vote after Councilor Carlin raised concerns about lack of abutter notification, referencing a prior issue on Cornet Street. Councilor Khamsyvoravong made the motion to continue. - Item 6490 (Utility Poles – Old Beach Road, Hillside Avenue, Lawrence Avenue): Approved only for Old Beach and Hillside (unanimous); Lawrence Avenue portion continued at Councilor Carlin’s request because he represents that area. - Item 6491 (Purchasing Policy Amendment): Withdrawn by the City Manager due to minor language inconsistencies; to be reposted. - Item 6492 (Magnet Forensic Extraction Software): Approved unanimously. $18,104 renewal. - Item 6493 (Scheduling Software License): Approved unanimously. One-year extension with System Works LLC. - Item 6494 (Marsh Habitat Grant): Approved 6–1. Authorizes acceptance of grant from Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank and contract with Fuss & O’Neill for the South Easton Pond restoration project. - Item 6495 (Sewer Project Amendment): Approved unanimously. Increase of $100,000 for KleinF elder contract; revised total $2,462,107.67. - Item 6496 (CSO Long-Term Control Plan Phase 9): Approved unanimously. $1,200,000 amendment with Jacobs Engineering Group. - Resolutions: - Item 22 (RIDOT Meeting Request): Approved unanimously. Resolution directing the city manager to formally request a meeting with RIDOT to discuss the status of Phase 1 and 2 of the Pell Bridge realignment and the requested MOU. Councilor Smythe noted state Representative Lauren Carson would advocate for the resolution. Maureen Cronin of the Tree and Open Space Commission thanked the sponsors and emphasized the need for answers. Key Outcomes - Failed: Ordinance 14 (General Fee Schedule – special event impact fee) died for lack of a second after public comment. - Approved: All ordinances on second reading (Items 15–21, with votes generally 6–1 or unanimous). - Approved: Pedicab license; all Board of License Commissioners items. - Approved 6–1: Composting contract (Item 6486), harbormaster vessel (Item 6487), Perrotti Park supplemental (Item 6488), marsh habitat grant (Item 6494). - Continued: Utility pole petitions for Ruggles Avenue (Item 6489) and Lawrence Avenue portion of Item 6490. - Withdrawn: Purchasing policy amendment (Item 6491; to be revised). - Approved Unanimously: Software renewals (Items 6492, 6493), sewer and CSO amendments (Items 6495, 6496), and RIDOT resolution (Item 22). - Next Steps: City administration to work out details for the block party; Harbormaster to begin boat construction (18-month lead); City to schedule meeting with RIDOT; revised purchasing policy to be brought back.

The Newport Zoning Board of Review held its regular monthly meeting on August 25, 2025, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers. The board addressed a light agenda including two abbreviated summary re-approvals and one full hearing petition. All five regular voting members (Chairman Wick Rudd, Vice Chair Nicole Chevry, Secretary Dave Riley, Russell Johnson, and Bark Rhymes) were present, along with alternates, establishing a quorum. No recusals were noted. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the June 23, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. - Minutes of the July 28, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No oral public comments were made during the meeting. However, written objections were received for the Bay Coast Bank petition (two letters) and written support letters for the Linda Pereira petition (five letters). The board acknowledged these submissions. Discussion Items - Abbreviated Summary – Bay Coast Bank (ZBR-25-63): Petition for re-approval of dimensional variances to construct a new bank branch with drive-through at 137 Broadway. The previous approval had lapsed due to delays in construction. The board granted the petition with a condition that the project be started and substantially completed within 12 months of the decision. The vote was 5-0. - Abbreviated Summary – Jessica Phillips (ZBR-25-66): Petition for re-approval of a special use permit and dimensional variance to construct an in-ground pool at 108 Catherine Street, increasing lot coverage from 16% to 18.2% (15% allowed). The board granted the petition with a 12-month completion condition. The vote was 5-0. - Full Hearing – Linda Pereira (ZBR-25-60): Petition for a dimensional variance to add two bedrooms to a two-bedroom guest house at 3 Goodwin Street without providing the required two additional off-street parking spaces. The applicant testified that the property has two on-site parking spaces and that rentals are typically to families using only one or two vehicles. The board granted the variance with a condition that the dimensional variance sunsets upon sale of the property. The vote was 5-0. Key Outcomes - All three petitions were approved unanimously (5-0 each). - Bay Coast Bank: Approval conditioned on starting and substantially completing the project within 12 months. - Jessica Phillips: Approval conditioned on starting and substantially completing the project within 12 months. - Linda Pereira: Dimensional variance granted subject to a sunset provision that the variance expires upon sale of the property; no requirement to lease additional parking spaces. - Several other petitions were continued to the September 22, 2025 meeting by request of the applicants. - The meeting adjourned after approximately 37 minutes.

On August 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m., the Newport City Council convened to address a broad agenda including a public hearing, consent calendar, licenses, multiple action items, and eight resolutions. The meeting featured extensive debate on police contract terms, parking and traffic safety measures, hospital liaisons, transit cuts, invasive plants, school zone speeds, and school regionalization. Several votes were taken, with amendments and continuances debated but ultimately resolved. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from July 1, 8, and 15, 2025 executive and regular sessions. - Approved five special event permits: Coaching Weekend (Aug 15-17), Newport Mental Health outreach (Aug 25), Feast of St. Augustin (Aug 28), Newport Classical Music Festival (Sep 7), and Life After Life performance (Nov 1-2). - Approved renewal of waste hauler license for Waste Connections of RI. - Received communications from RI Ethics Commission, RI Division of Statewide Planning (Moving Forward RI 2050 plan), Friends of the Waterfront (Adopt-an-Access report). - Approved banner license for Newport Prevention Coalition (Aug 25-Sep 2) for International Overdose Awareness Day. - Approved Franklin Street business signage request subject to city administration working out details; City Manager clarified that the approved location (corner of Thames and Franklin, near post office) is outside the three-foot unobstructed sidewalk zone required by ordinance, and that most downtown businesses cannot meet that standard. Public Comments & Testimony - Kyle Hence (73 Washington St.) urged the Council to cease water fluoridation, citing a September 2024 federal judge’s ruling that fluoride poses an unreasonable risk, especially to infants and children. He noted that states like Utah and Florida have banned fluoridation since that ruling and that many European countries do not fluoridate without increases in cavities. - David Geisinger (co-owner of 21 & 25 Young St.) spoke in favor of making Spring/Bowery/Young intersection a three-way stop, stating that as a resident he takes his life in his hands when taking a left from Young onto Spring and must rely on reflections from parked cars to see oncoming traffic. - Sandra Flowers (16 Care Ave.), former teacher and school committee member, supported lowering school zone speeds to 20 mph, recommending addition of flashing lights on timers to reinforce limits. - Beth Cullen (19 Bayside Ave.), School Committee member, urged passage of the regionalization resolution, noting that the School Committee had voted 5-2 in favor the previous evening and that the bus reimbursement alone would save $1.5 million annually for Newport. - Melody O’Brien (2-3 Sergeant Greenway) expressed concerns about special education resource allocation under regionalization, stating that IEPs in Newport are “a joke” and that she had to pull her child out due to lack of funding. - Amy Yosura (102 Warner St.), parent of two Pell School students, asked for more concrete details on how state reimbursement funds would be allocated to education before putting a regionalization question to voters. - Jan Slee presented the National Lighthouse Award plaque for Ida Lewis; noted Ida Lewis saved at least 18 lives (unofficial count 35) and that the Rose Island license plate was first in New England. Discussion Items Proclamation – Joe Logue Retirement Mayor Holder read a proclamation declaring August 14, 2025 as “Joe Logue Day” in Newport, honoring the retiring director of the Newport Public Library for eight years of leadership, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and overseeing capital projects. Logue thanked the council and staff. Resolution 22 – Rose Island Lighthouse & Fort Hamilton Trust Council approved congratulating the Trust on its national recognition and 2024 “Best Plate of the Year” award for its charitable license plate, reaffirming support for the Trust’s mission, and recognizing August 7 (National Lighthouse Day) as “Rhode Island Rose Island Lighthouse and Fort Hamilton Trust Day” in Newport. Public Hearing – Removal of Michael Falcone from Sister City Commission Mayor Holder explained Falcone moved overseas and missed more than 75% of meetings, triggering a bylaw provision. The Council unanimously approved removal, with Holder noting Falcone remains welcome to serve when he returns. Action Item 6470 – Newport Yacht Club Lease Amendment City Manager recommended a 30-year extension (through 2063) with CPI adjustments and 15% of non-member transient dockage fees. Councilor Carlin moved to continue, citing the need for a public workshop. The motion to continue passed (voice vote). Action Item 6473 – Fraternal Order of Police Contract City Manager presented the contract (bridge year FY2025: 2.9% retroactive increase; FY2026-2028: 3% annual increases). Councilor Carlin offered an amendment to raise the retroactive increase to 4%, citing consistency with the firefighter contract and fairness. Solicitor Bean and Councilor Smythe opposed, warning it would politicize negotiations and set bad precedent with other unions. Amendment failed (hand vote). Carlin’s second amendment for a 4% increase in FY2026 lacked a second. The original contract was approved (hand vote). Action Item 6479 – Stop Signs at Spring, Bowery, Young Streets Councilor Carlin moved to continue to gather constituent input. Councilor Pinnock disagreed, noting ITC notification and 34 accidents in 10 years. The continuance motion failed. The three-way stop sign was approved. Action Item 6481 – Parking Removal on Thames Street (South of South Baptist) Councilor Carlin questioned what changed since planning board approval of the Waits Wharf development, where fire apparatus turning was said not to be an issue. Fire Marshal Justin Duell stated it has always been an issue; the fire truck’s tiller steering adjustments made it tighter. Video showed difficulty turning with a car parked in the spot. Carlin’s appeal to the chair’s ruling on relevance was sustained (hand vote). Councilors Khamsyvoravong and Segley supported removal as a safety necessity. Approved. Resolution 23 – Newport Hospital Council Liaisons Councilor Smythe proposed appointing herself and Councilor Khamsyvoravong as liaisons. Councilor Segley moved to continue to allow hospital input; after debate, motion to continue failed. Councilor Carlin objected to self-appointment but the resolution passed (hand vote). Resolution 24 – Opposition to RIPTA Service Cuts Councilor Khamsyvoravong noted cuts would eliminate the trolley route to northern Newport, Middletown, URI, and the train station. Council passed unanimously (voice vote). Resolution 25 – Invasive Plant Growth Ordinance Councilor Holder requested an ordinance to regulate invasive plant growth in residential zones. Passed. Resolution 26 – Speed Limits in School Zones (20 mph) Councilor Pinnock read resolves noting school zones are high-crash clusters and that speed is a factor in 45% of RI traffic fatalities. Approved. Resolution 27 – Celebrating Ida Lewis Councilor Carlin recognized Ida Lewis posthumously and Jan Slee’s acceptance of a National Lighthouse Award. Passed. Resolution 28 – School Regionalization with Middletown Councilor Napolitano’s resolution set a path toward a voter referendum in April 2026 on administrative regionalization (shared superintendent and finance office), with incentives including 50% bus reimbursement and increased state construction aid. Councilor Khamsyvoravong amended the first resolve to set a September 30, 2025 deadline for appointing an Academic Integration Advisory Commission. Councilor Pinnock amended to direct the City Manager to coordinate a joint meeting with Middletown officials, RIDE, and superintendents. Councilor Smythe moved to continue pending a manager’s report on resource impacts; the motion failed. The resolution as amended passed (hand vote – “by two”). Key Outcomes - Removed Michael Falcone from Sister City Commission (unanimous). - Continued the Newport Yacht Club lease amendment. - Approved FOP contract with original 2.9% retroactive and 3% annual increases through 2028. - Approved three-way stop signs at Spring, Bowery, Young streets. - Approved removal of on-street parking on Thames Street south of South Baptist (46-foot stretch) to improve fire truck access. - Passed Resolution 23: Appointed Councilors Smythe and Khamsyvoravong as Newport Hospital liaisons. - Passed Resolution 24: Opposing RIPTA proposed service cuts affecting Aquidneck Island. - Passed Resolution 25: Directed drafting of ordinance to regulate invasive plant growth. - Passed Resolution 26: Directed administration to establish 20 mph school zone limits within 300 feet of all K-12 schools; forwarded to RIDOT for state road coordination. - Passed Resolution 27: Recognized Ida Lewis and her national lighthouse award; designated a day in her honor. - Passed Resolution 28 (amended): Initiated regionalization discussions; directs appointment of Academic Integration Advisory Commission by September 30, 2025; mandates joint meeting with Middletown officials, RIDE, and superintendents; reaffirms intent to seek voter referendum in April 2026. Note: Meeting began at 6:30 p.m. and adjourned without a recorded end time. All votes are based on transcript voice or hand counts as audible.

The Newport Historic District Commission (HDC) held its regular meeting on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers, 43 Broadway, Newport, RI. The meeting began with a pre-meeting workshop on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) led by Zoning Officer Nick Armor and Preservation Planner Jillian Chen, followed by the regular agenda which included approval of minutes, summary approvals, action items on extension requests, and hearings on several new and continued applications. The meeting concluded with a vote on a contentious window replacement application for 1 Bellevue Avenue. Pre-Meeting Training: Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) - Zoning Officer Nick Armor provided an overview of ADU regulations under state law (Chapter 17.79) and the city's zoning code. Key points included: ADUs are allowed only on lots 20,000 sq. ft. or larger for new construction; lots under 20,000 sq. ft. must use conversion of existing structures; one ADU per lot; size limits of 900 sq. ft. (studio/1-bedroom) or 1,200 sq. ft. (2-bedroom), whichever is less than 60% of principal structure floor area; prohibition on short-term rentals; separate ingress/egress required; and one additional parking space required. A loophole allows construction of a non-kitchen accessory structure which can later be converted to an ADU without a time limit. Flood zone compliance applies. - Preservation Planner Jillian Chen emphasized that HDC should evaluate ADU proposals using standard historic district standards (design, scale, massing, siting) without regard to interior programming. Commissioners discussed concerns about long-term impacts on historic districts, precedent, and the need for clear findings in approvals. Consent Calendar - The commission approved four applications on summary basis, adopting staff findings: - N-5: 89 Harrison Ave (Plat 41, Lot 288) – removal of wood screen, reconstruction of exterior stair and porch with new columns and balustrade. Approved citing standards A1, A2, A3, A4, A7. - N-9: 118 Prospect Hill St (Plat 28, Lot 15) – construction of a 21’ x 16’ wood deck at grade and a 21’ x 10’ pergola. Approved citing standards A1, A2, A7. - N-2: 93 Second St (Plat 9, Lot 320) – installation of a 6’x10’ prefab cedar shed. Approved citing standards B1, B2. - N-8: 8 Seaview Ave (Plat 31, Lot 62) – replacement of rotted deck boards with composite boards. Approved citing standards B1, B2. Action Items - A-1: Application 2023-July-015 of Igor and Lily Sokol (232 Ocean Ave) – extension for previously approved roof-mounted solar array (60 modules) on gatehouse. Approved. - A-2: Application 2023-Aug-001 of Salve Regina University (35 Shepard Ave) – extension for removal of 1960s and 1980s additions and architectural detailing. Approved. - A-3: Application 2022-Oct-007 of Margaret and Sean Maloney (275 Harrison Ave) – second extension for ground-mounted solar array (162 ft from house). Attorney Dan Procini explained delays due to litigation over a carriage house. Approved. Discussion Items - N-1: 53 John Street (Contributing) – Christopher Fiumara proposed constructing a detached single-story garage, removing a front skylight, installing two rear skylights, new entry doors, one new window, removal of a cantilevered deck and egress stair, and a 4’x7’ rear addition. Architect Daniel Herkenrouther presented. After discussion, the commission approved with conditions: keep original double door location on west bay and restore original doors; replace sliding door on south elevation with French doors; remove the connector (breezeway) between garage and main structure. Garage height and design found acceptable. Approved citing standards A1, A2, A5 for main structure and A1, A7 for garage. - N-6: 10 Franklin Street (Non-Contributing) – Del R&D LLC requested replacement of all windows and doors with aluminum-clad wood windows replicating existing facade. Owner Susan to Silva and contractor John Ventura testified. Asbestos testing not applicable to this non-contributing structure. Commission expressed preference for all-wood windows, but given non-contributing status and water damage evidence, approved with all-wood windows specified. Approved citing B1, B2. - N-4: 8 Beacon Hill (Contributing) – Luke Fleury proposed converting two-family residence to single-family, adding entrance portico, reconfiguring fenestration on east elevation, replacing window in west dormer, altering south elevation fenestration, adding Juliet balcony, installing copper gutters, removing fieldstone chimneys and buttress, and demolishing buttress. Attorney Russell Jackson and architect Mark Rapp presented. However, staff reported a stop-work order due to unauthorized exterior demolition. Commission found insufficient information (no window inventory, lack of documentation on removed materials, concern over conjectural design on east elevation). The application was continued to September 9, 2025, with requirement for a full window inventory, cataloging of removed materials, and consideration of site context (including proposed garage and pool, though not yet submitted). - C-2: 1 Bellevue Avenue (Contributing) – KHP Capital Partners (Viking Hotel) requested replacement of all windows and exterior doors in the main historic block (144 windows) due to asbestos in glazing putty and caulking. Asbestos consultant Jeffrey D’Arrigo testified that based on sampling, regulations require treating all similar windows as asbestos-containing. Commission debated alternatives (e.g., interior storm windows, encapsulation) but ultimately approved with condition that windows must be all-wood, true divided light, double-glazed with impact-rated glass as required by building code. Preservation planner Jillian Chen will work with applicant to confirm specifications; any material changes to return to HDC. Approved citing standards A1, A4, A5, A7 (with A4 and A5 noted as not fully aligned by Commissioner Moran). Key Outcomes - Summary approvals (4 applications): Approved unanimously with staff findings. - Action items (3 extensions): All approved unanimously. - N-1 (53 John Street): Approved with conditions (keep original doors, French doors, remove breezeway). - N-6 (10 Franklin Street): Approved with all-wood windows. - N-4 (8 Beacon Hill): Continued to September 9, 2025, for additional materials (window inventory, catalog of removed elements, site context). - C-2 (1 Bellevue Avenue): Approved with condition of all-wood true divided light windows and impact glass; planner to review and report back if unable to meet condition. - Continuations: N-3 (11 Chartier Circle) and N-7 (65 William Street) were rescheduled to September 9, 2025, at applicant's request. - New Business: Staff announced transition to online application portal starting October 2025; updated window guidance on lead paint expected soon. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after public comment.

A workshop was held on August 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM in City Council Chambers to discuss a proposed ad hoc advisory committee aimed at improving the processes, appointment procedures, and operational support for the city’s 26 boards and commissions. Councilor Smythe introduced the concept, citing widespread issues such as applicant communication gaps, expired terms, lack of new member onboarding, and inconsistent meeting structures. Several council members opposed the idea, arguing it would add unnecessary bureaucracy and that existing council and staff responsibilities already cover these areas. Public testimony from board members provided mixed perspectives. No formal vote was taken; the discussion concluded with acknowledgment of the need for improvements but disagreement on the mechanism. Public Comments & Testimony - Jack Grant (Henderson Home Commission member) described his positive appointment experience: he researched the role, had a phone interview with the mayor, was notified of his docket appearance, and received clear guidance. He said the monthly chairs’ meetings work well and that an additional layer would slow down processes. - Andy Bjork (Energy & Environment Commission, also served on Cemetery and HDC) observed that some commissions lack basic policies and procedures, forcing members to spend time on operations rather than content. He supported the idea of a handbook or structural guidance but did not endorse a new committee. - Emily Conklin (Vice Chair, Energy & Environment Commission) shared that she applied in 2021 and heard nothing until she saw herself on the council agenda. She noted three chairs in her tenure and emphasized the value of onboarding materials, Roberts Rules training, and a standard handbook to improve commission effectiveness and diversity. Discussion Items - Councilor Smythe presented the proposal, explaining she would remove the word “oversight” from the resolution because it implied a bureaucratic layer. She described the committee as an ad hoc, advisory group to help develop a standard operating procedure, appointment process improvements, and a member handbook. She noted that approximately 50 applicants have been waiting months to years without communication, 11 out of 26 boards have members serving 10–26 years (8 of them consistently as chairs), and some commissions are meeting without a quorum or with expired terms. - Councilor Napolitano opposed the proposal, stating she had never heard of these issues from the many board chairs she communicates with, and that such matters are a council and staff responsibility. She suggested splitting tasks among staff rather than creating a new committee. - Councilor Sileo echoed opposition, saying the council has sufficient processes and that adding another board would complicate matters. He recommended focusing on council-led improvements and noted that monthly chairs’ meetings already provide a forum for issues. - Councilor Pinnock supported the idea, mentioning that she has received text messages from commission members seeking direction and that the committee could provide structure without being a new layer of bureaucracy. - Mayor Quattrocchi (acting as chair) highlighted existing annual reports and monthly chairs’ meetings. He acknowledged some room for improvement but stressed that council is the proper body to oversee boards and commissions. - Councilor Ryan did not speak extensively but noted the value of a handbook concept. Key Outcomes - No vote or formal decision was taken on the proposed committee. - Councilor Smythe committed to revising the resolution to remove the term “oversight” and to circulate a revised proposal for further discussion. - The idea of a standard handbook for all boards and commissions received broad support, though opinions differed on whether a separate committee was needed to create it. - The meeting adjourned without a timeline for next steps, but councilors acknowledged the need to address applicant backlogs, term expirations, and onboarding gaps.

The Newport Planning Board met on August 4, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 43 Broadway, Newport, RI. The board took action on several items, including a favorable recommendation to the City Council on a Future Land Use Map amendment, approval of two minor subdivision applications, and continuation of the major development plan for 525 Broadway to the September 8 meeting due to extensive public testimony. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The board unanimously approved the June 2, 2025 regular meeting minutes and the June 16, 2025 special meeting minutes. Communications - Comprehensive Plan Update: Staff announced that an RFQ for the comprehensive plan update (current plan is 2017) was issued, and the consultant Interface was selected. The contract was signed that day, and the update is expected to be completed by the 2027 deadline. The board was invited to participate in the process. - Online Applications: Staff reported that the city has met the state's October 1, 2025 deadline to accept planning and zoning applications online. The next step is to put historic preservation applications online. Discussion Items - Business A – Petition to Amend Future Land Use Map (FLUM) and Associated Ordinance (7 Seaview Ave): Attorney Matt Lees, representing petitioner Erin Flynn, explained that the board had previously held a hearing and voted unanimously to give a favorable recommendation to the City Council. As a technical matter, the public hearing was re-advertised and reopened. No members of the public offered comment. The board then voted to forward the positive recommendation to the City Council. - Business B – Minor Subdivision, 71 & 75 Tilden Ave (App. 2025-MS-02): Attorney Matt Lees presented the application for a lot line adjustment between two substandard lots to allow each existing single-family home to have its own driveway. The applicant requested dimensional variances for lot size and lot width, and a Category 6 Special Use Permit. After a public hearing with no comments, the board deliberated and found the variances met the required standards. The board approved the variances, special use permit, and minor subdivision, contingent on final plan approval. - Business C – Minor Subdivision, 96 & 100 Harrison Ave (App. 2025-MS-01): Attorney Tanner Jackson, with co-applicant Patrick Doherty, presented the application to adjust the lot line between two existing lots to transfer a rocky outcropping area from 96 Harrison Ave to 100 Harrison Ave to preserve the historical landscape. The applicant requested a dimensional variance for lot width for 96 Harrison Ave. Several board members expressed concern about the potential for future development on the conveyed land. The applicant agreed to record a deed restriction prohibiting further development on the transferred parcel, with enforceability by the applicant and the abutting property owner at 106 Harrison Ave. The board approved the variance with a condition that the deed restriction be recorded with the final subdivision plan and reviewed by staff. The minor subdivision was also approved. - Business D – Unified Development Review for Development Plan (525 Broadway, App. 2024-DPR-04): This was the major item of the evening. The applicant, 525 Broadway LLC, proposes to construct two multi-family buildings with 38 one-bedroom workforce housing units on a 0.94-acre parcel (part of which lies in Middletown). The application requests a Category 1 Special Use Permit, dimensional variances for density, parking (41 spaces vs. 76 required), building height (3 feet over limit), lot coverage, and driveway access. The board heard extensive testimony from the applicant's architect (Jeffrey Monas), engineer (Lynn Small), landscape architect (Pamela Rogers), traffic engineer (Todd Brayton), and real estate consultant (James Houle). The applicant's leasing agent from Cranston Calvert, Jessica Cameron, testified to high demand for similar units. Public comment was then taken, with 20+ speakers. Many neighboring residents raised concerns about traffic safety at the intersection of Broadway and One Mile Corner, pedestrian safety, parking overflow into side streets, loss of green space, and the scale of the project not fitting the character of the North Broadway neighborhood. Several speakers supported the project, citing the urgent need for workforce housing. The board, noting the late hour (10:30 p.m.), voted to continue the application to the September 8, 2025 meeting, allowing the applicant to provide rebuttal and the board to deliberate. - Business E – Minor Subdivision, 173-175 Coggeshall Ave (App. 2024-MS-04): This application was continued to the September 8, 2025 meeting, as requested by the applicant. Key Outcomes - FLUM Petition: The board voted unanimously to recommend approval of the FLUM amendment and associated ordinance to the City Council (motion by Kevin Michon, seconded by Frederick Hertzbury). - Tilden Ave Subdivision: Approved unanimously. The board granted dimensional variances for lot area and lot width, a Category 6 Special Use Permit, and minor subdivision approval. - Harrison Ave Subdivision: Approved unanimously. The board granted a variance for minimum lot width (96 Harrison Ave) and minor subdivision approval, contingent on the recording of a deed restriction prohibiting further development on the conveyed land. - 525 Broadway: Continued to the September 8, 2025 meeting. The applicant will have the opportunity to present rebuttal, and the board will deliberate. The TRC will hold a further review meeting in the interim. - Coggeshall Ave: Continued to September 8, 2025. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at 10:36 p.m.

The Newport City Council held a workshop on July 30, 2025, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers to discuss proposed revisions to the council's rules. The workshop was initiated by a resolution from Councilor Smythe, who presented a comprehensive reorganization of the existing rules, incorporating elements from the city charter, Rhode Island Code of Ethics, Robert's Rules of Order, and new sections on newly elected councilors and code of conduct. The discussion focused on the content and implications of the proposed changes, with councilors and the city solicitor offering perspectives on enforcement, specificity, and procedural modifications. Discussion Items - Reorganization and additions: Councilor Smythe explained that the proposed rules are a reformatted and reorganized version of existing rules, with additions from the charter (Section 2-5 on mayor/presiding officer), newly elected councilor orientation, Rhode Island Code of Ethics, and a code of conduct section. The goal is to create a single, accessible document for councilors and the public. - Code of conduct and definitions: Councilor Smythe included specific examples of uncivil/disrespectful behaviors (e.g., offensive gestures, intimidating gestures) drawn from academic resources on workplace bullying. Councilor Segley expressed caution about defining subjective terms like “offensive” or “intimidating,” noting that interpretation could vary. Councilor Pinnock supported keeping specific examples, arguing they provide clearer guidance and legal weight. The city solicitor confirmed that having such rules in the council’s rules could help defend against First Amendment challenges if a disruptive person is removed. - Public comment time limits: Councilor Smythe noted that the existing three-minute limit for citizen forum was retained (originally from existing rules). A discussion arose about a five-minute limit appearing elsewhere in the track changes, but Councilor Smythe clarified that the five-minute provision was already in the original rules and was not changed. Councilor Segley observed that without consistent enforcement, time limits become mere guidelines. - Two-sponsor requirement for resolutions: Councilor Segley suggested requiring two sponsors for resolutions (a second councilor) to reduce last-minute filings and avoid rolling quorum issues. The city clerk noted that such a requirement would facilitate administration. Councilor Smythe agreed to incorporate wording if provided. The council discussed the operational benefits and potential pitfalls (e.g., rolling quorum if sponsors are sought sequentially). - Mayor selection and charter sections: Councilor Smythe clarified that the charter sections on mayor/presiding officer selection were copied verbatim from the charter and are not proposed changes. Any changes to those would require a ballot measure. - Other provisions: Councilor Segley recommended retaining a rule that all matters be decided by simple majority vote (except where charter provides otherwise) and another rule limiting motions during debate to adjourn, table, postpone, etc. Councilor Smythe confirmed these provisions are already included in the revised document. - Enforcement and orientation: Councilor noted that the new orientation section for newly elected councilors (providing a binder of key documents upfront) is a valuable addition. The city solicitor noted that rules can be amended by the council at any time, typically in January after inauguration. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the workshop was intended for discussion and refinement. - Councilor Segley will provide wording for a two-sponsor requirement for resolutions for potential inclusion. - Councilor Smythe will consider feedback on the code of conduct definitions, with some councilors supporting keeping specific examples and others preferring broader language. - The council will continue to refine the proposed rules before a future vote. The city solicitor noted that the next council could adopt or modify the rules upon taking office.

The Newport City Council held a special meeting on July 30, 2025, at 5:30 PM local time (noted as 10:30 UTC in instructions) to address a time-sensitive agenda item: waiving the city's right of first refusal to allow the transfer of the Gallagher Wing property at the Florence Gray Center to the Newport Housing Authority. The action is tied to renovations funded through the Pandemic Recovery Office CPF-CLC (Community Learning Center) project. Discussion Items - Council considered Action Item 6469, which authorized waiving the right of first refusal under RIGL 35-7-5 for the state-offered property. The city manager's representative stated that any delay reduces the opportunity to act. Benny Ferrero from KCM Group, representing the CLC project, explained that the Gallagher Wing will be integrated into the larger CLC project and will house a mix of tenant organizations. Councilmember Lynn Underwood Segley asked about future use, and Ferrero confirmed that the Newport Housing Authority will oversee renovations and space allocation, though specific tenants are not yet determined. Key Outcomes - The council voted unanimously (voice vote, all ayes) to approve the waiver of the right of first refusal, enabling the transfer of the Gallagher Wing to the Newport Housing Authority. - The meeting adjourned immediately after the vote with a motion and second.

The Newport Zoning Board of Review met on Monday, July 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 43 Broadway. Board members present included the Chair, Vice Chair Dave Riley, Acting Secretary Bark Grimes, Nicole Chevry, and new member Richard Berlinski (voting in place of absent members). The meeting covered two withdrawal requests, two extension requests, three summary calendar petitions, and one abbreviated summary petition. Communications - Withdrawal Requests: Two petitions were withdrawn without prejudice: 9 County Street (Lee Divittis) and 118 Prospect Hill Street (Salvatore Carrabba). Both motions passed unanimously. - Extension Requests: - 7 Cottage Street: Granted a second 12-month extension unanimously. - 435 Broadway (Newport Contemporary Ballet): After discussion and public comment, the board voted to grant a 24-month extension (instead of the requested 36 months) to allow time for funding. The board noted concerns from adjacent property owners about site maintenance and the future of the project. Conditions regarding site maintenance were referred to the building official and city solicitor. Public Comments & Testimony - Rodlin Woodhead (adjacent property owner) spoke against granting a 36-month extension for 435 Broadway, citing concerns about changes to the neighboring back parcel (adaptive reuse of the former Tripp School into 26 one-bedroom units) and broken promises. She requested a shorter extension. - Peter Fernberger (area resident) expressed concerns about the dusty condition of the site and questioned what would happen if the project fails to secure funding. He asked for assurances of maintenance and clarification on property reversion rights. Consent Calendar – Summary Petitions Three petitions were placed on the consent calendar and approved unanimously: 1. 14 Tews Court (Will Deines): Special use permit and dimensional variance to construct a second-floor addition 5 feet from the front property line (7 feet required). Approved 4-0 after member Richard Berlinski recused himself. 2. 34 Poplar Street (William Smiley): Dimensional variance for lot coverage increase from 35.74% to 37.02% (34.94% allowed) for a 32 sq. ft. accessory shed addition. The originally advertised side setback variance was deemed unnecessary. Approved 5-0. 3. 300 Broadway (Eduoard and Lyndsey Kachelmann): Dimensional variance to install an HVAC condenser 2 feet from the north property line (5 feet required). Approved 5-0. 4. 62-64 Bridge Street (Patrick Kilroy): Dimensional variance to permit two driveways without the requisite 100 feet of lot frontage. Approved 5-0 with an additional condition to obtain driveway curb cut and physical alteration permits from the city engineering department. Key Outcomes - Votes: All motions passed unanimously (4-0 or 5-0 as noted). - Decisions: - Withdrawals granted without prejudice. - 7 Cottage Street extension: 12 months granted. - 435 Broadway extension: 24 months granted (instead of requested 36). - All four zoning petitions approved with standard conditions (12-month completion and payment of noticing costs, plus the extra condition for 62-64 Bridge Street). - Referrals: Board referred site maintenance concerns for 435 Broadway to the building official and questions about property reversion to the city solicitor.