Public Meetings - North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, July 17, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included multiple public hearings, consent agenda approvals, extensive discussion on consolidating the Groundwater Committee with the Conservation Commission, and a town manager's report covering infrastructure, middle school planning, and other updates. Several items were approved, while others were tabled or continued to future meetings. Consent Calendar - Approved routine items including: donation receipt ($15.00), contract extension for Land Evidence Recording System (GovOS), award of sole source contract for satellite leak detection (Asterra, $59,000/year for 3 years), engineering services for Saunderstown Village Water Main Replacement (Pare Corporation, $130,800), authorization to enter into agreements with Rhode Island Energy for LED lighting at parks, ratification of retaining Epiq credit monitoring and Rasky Partners communication firm related to the April 2023 cyber attack, agreement with RIDOT for sidewalk project, acceptance of two legislative grants ($2,000 and $2,500), Class F alcohol license for St. Paul's Church, entertainment license for West Bay Community Theater, holiday sales license transfer and renewals, and a new victualling license for Chipotle Mexican Grill. - Items 14 and 15 (water supply contracts) and Item 19 (sidewalk agreement) were removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion and approved after explanation. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane) urged the council to take action on the bridge over Route 403 at Davisville Road, which has been unusable for over two years, causing detours for businesses and emergency services. He expressed frustration at lack of progress and called on council to pressure state officials, noting that previous efforts (e.g., rotary at 2/102, traffic lights on Route 4) were stalled. - Susan Tash (7 Stillman Road), Georgine Edwards (24 Saunders Road), and Thor Johnson (32 Stillman Road) all spoke in support of awarding the engineering contract for water main replacement in Saunderstown, citing frequent water main breaks that damage property and disrupt service. They urged approval. - Curtis Fisher (104 Phillips Street) expressed concern about a long-standing agreement to supply water to Jamestown during emergencies, arguing that Jamestown should improve its own reservoirs rather than risk overpumping North Kingstown's shallow wells during droughts. Town Manager Molls and Water Department representatives clarified the agreement is rarely used (only twice in 35 years) and is currently under renegotiation with state health oversight. Discussion Items - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Application (Item 4): The public hearing was opened and closed with no public testimony. Council authorized Town Manager to file the application for $500,000 to upgrade Yorktown Park, $183,563 for housing services, and $5,000 for recreation camp scholarships. - Second Reading - Amendment to Energy Advisory Commission (Item 5): Public hearing held with no testimony. Approved. The commission had been inactive; staff handles energy initiatives internally. - Second Reading - Amendment to Conservation Commission and Groundwater Committee Consolidation (Item 6): Extensive discussion. Aaron Cohen (400 Forge Road) and Kathleen Garino (139 Summit View Lane) opposed the dissolution of the Groundwater Committee, citing lack of transparency, the importance of water protection, PFAS contamination, and the heavy workload already faced by the Conservation Commission. Council President Mancini proposed making the Groundwater Committee a subcommittee of the Conservation Commission with defined roles. Town Manager Molls expressed concern about staff being put in an unfair position, but council decided to table the amendment and ask administration to return with a detailed proposal within a few months. Motion to table passed unanimously. - Second Reading - Amendment to Competitive Bidding Ordinance (Item 7): Public hearing closed; approved. The amendment updates bid thresholds by the Boston Regional CPI as required annually. - Second Reading - Amendment to Police Officers' Disability Pensions (Item 8): Public hearing closed; approved. - Second Reading - Zoning Map Amendments for 70 and 84 Pleasant Valley Road (Item 9): Public hearing closed; approved. - Town Manager's Report (Item 27): Ralph Molls reported on ITAC meeting (June 28), upcoming virtual meeting with RI Airport Corporation, real estate tax bill delay with extended due date to August 15, fire apparatus status (ladder 2 repairs nearly complete, engine 3 radiator failure, new engine 5 arriving September), fire department antique apparatus awards, AED installation progress, West Main Street/Post Road sidewalk project timeline (design fall 2023, bid early 2024, construction early 2025), CDBG application details, State Traffic Commission decision on crosswalk near Town Hall (expected July 19), EVE Clulow's 55 Brown Street project update (redesign may reduce costs; will present revised plan on September 11), and middle school building subcommittee update (Quinnesett site tabled; school committee approved testing only at Davisville Middle School for a single large school, but subcommittee favors two smaller schools; bond referendum timeline discussed). - Resolution Discharging Groundwater Committee (Item 28): Tabled pending the above consolidation discussion. - Authorization for Tide Gauge at Brown Street (Item 29): Council debated the $82,900 cost. Some members questioned whether data from an existing gauge at Quonset Point would suffice. Planning Director Nicole LaFontaine and Water Department staff argued that a visible gauge in Wickford would educate the public about sea level rise impacts. A motion to continue the item to the August meeting passed (3-2) to allow investigation of potential cost savings using existing data. - Authorization to Investigate Nomination for Additional Rights-of-Way to Tidal Waters (Item 30): Approved. Staff will continue assessment of two sites for CRMC designation. - Amendment to Town Council Meeting Schedule (Item 31): Approved. The August 21 meeting was moved to August 16 (a Wednesday) to accommodate council schedules. Key Outcomes - Approved: CDBG application filing; amendments to Energy Advisory Commission, Competitive Bidding Ordinance, Police Disability Pensions, and zoning map for Pleasant Valley Road; consent agenda items (with separate votes on items 14, 15, 19); authorization to investigate tidal rights-of-way; meeting schedule change. - Tabled: Amendment to Conservation Commission (consolidation with Groundwater Committee) – administration to return with subcommittee proposal within a few months; Resolution discharging Groundwater Committee. - Continued to August 2023: Authorization for tide gauge at Brown Street – staff to explore cost-saving alternatives. - Observations: The council directed town manager to prioritize Yorktown Park improvements regardless of CDBG grant outcome, and will decide on middle school bond referendum timing at the August meeting.

The Town Council of North Kingstown met on Monday, June 26, 2023 at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered routine consent agenda items, public comments on the proposed middle school and other issues, reports from the Town Manager, Water Supply Director, and Recreation Department, updates on the public safety complex and school bond project, and new business including a Pride Month resolution and committee appointments. Consent Calendar - Approved all items 5-26 except item 11, which was removed for separate discussion. Items included: approval of minutes from April 24 and May 8, 2023; abatement of uncollectable taxes ($86,792.05); receipt and acceptance of donations ($25, 10 first aid kits, signage on marijuana use); purchase of two field mowers for the golf course ($140,000); award of contract for HVAC maintenance ($48,962); award of bids for liquid caustic soda and sodium hypochlorite; exhibition license for a sports card show; fireworks permits for Quidnessett Country Club and Plum Beach Club; holiday sales license renewals and transfers; victualling license transfer; laundry license renewals; peddler license; first readings of amendments to competitive bidding ordinance, police disability pensions, and zoning map for 70 and 84 Pleasant Valley Road. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian O'Dell (152 Salisbury Avenue) argued that the school committee should pay the $1.7 million architect pre-work fee from their own budget, citing a March 1 building subcommittee meeting where Mr. Mollis stated the school committee is responsible. He urged the council and school committee to work together. - Steve Colucci (215 Pinecrest Drive) raised concerns about excessive noise from motorcycles and trucks on Route 4, noting that laws are not enforced. He provided an informational packet and suggested signage, cameras with sound meters, and speed detectors. He also mentioned dangerous driving at the West Allington traffic light. - Pam Panero (710 Slocum Road) opposed the town paying the architect fee, expressed concern about wetlands implications at the Quidnesset site, and questioned whether the bond could be altered. She noted attending master planning sessions but found information inaccurate. - Mary Crawford (61 Baker Way) opposed the town funding the architect fee, criticized the fifth through eighth grade model, and urged the school committee to maintain existing buildings. She argued the bond should not be on an off-election year and that the public safety complex and recreation center are needed. - Cara Martone (73 Woodridge Drive) voiced concerns about the proposed middle school at Quidnesset, citing new information about wetlands reducing buildable land and eliminating athletic fields. She urged the council to recommend halting work on the project. - Anne Horihan (243 Orchard Woods Drive) expressed concerns about the educational soundness of a large 5-8 school and questioned the site due to wetlands. She also noted the lack of information about the public safety complex, which is coupled with the school bond. Reports and Presentations - Town Manager Ralph Mollis reported: He reached out to Eve Clulow regarding a project; she will provide an update in July/August. The town is applying for Learn 365 RI grants (due June 30) for after-school counseling, tutoring, and summer programming. The Parks and Fields Department has made improvements at Wilson Park, Ryan Park, and town beach. The library projects a surplus that could erase its accumulated deficit. A new 15-passenger bus for the senior center will begin service tomorrow. The Post Road and West Main Street Sidewalk Project is under negotiation with DOT. Summer camp is sold out. The state passed tangible exemption legislation, but it presents challenges for North Kingstown. Preliminary plans for the Top Box property include a fast-food restaurant, car wash, bank, and possibly a fourth business. Tax bills go out next week; first payment due July 31. Annual fireworks display is July 3 at town beach with a shuttle from NK High School. - Director of Water Supply Tim Cranston presented results of a satellite leak detection survey by Asterra. The survey found 18 leaks (14 town-owned, 4 homeowner-owned), saving an estimated 1.8 million gallons of water and $130,000 in lost revenue. The cost payback is less than eight months. The town has repaired 11 of 14 leaks; homeowners have fixed one. The department plans to contract for annual scans. - Golf Course Superintendent Dan McDermott reviewed upgrades funded by green fees, including maintenance facility renovation, new driving range mats, parking lot charging stations, drainage improvements, tree removal, green expansions, and equipment purchases. Planned projects for 2023-24 include bridge replacements, bunker renovations, and tee expansions. Leisure Services Advisory Committee Appointment (Item 30) - The council approved the reappointment of Jeffrey Smith to a term ending July 1, 2026. Council President Mancini noted that Mr. Smith has expertise and is involved in the recreation project. The other applicant, Neil Labove, was informed and understood the decision. Fire Chief Update on Public Safety Complex (Item 31) - Chief Scott Cattell reported that the building committee is developing a website, video presentations, and plans for public tours. He noted deteriorating concrete in the apparatus floor and lower level, ongoing water leaks, and mold issues. He rejected claims of deferred maintenance, stating the buildings are past their useful life. He emphasized that modern fire apparatus cannot fit properly and that there are no women's facilities. The chief asked residents to educate themselves by touring the facility. Council members expressed support and rejected the notion of deferred maintenance. Update on School Bond Project (Item 32) and School Committee Request for Architect Fee Funding (Item 33) - Council President Mancini shared that the General Assembly extended the deadline for stage two application submission to February 15, 2024, due to a change in the state budget. He advocated for a pause to consider alternative sites. - School Committee Chair Aaron Earl and COO Michael Waterman provided updates: The building subcommittee recently learned of expanded wetlands at the Quidnesset site, reducing usable space. The team is reviewing options to ensure adequate parking and athletic fields. Councilor Matt McCoy expressed that Quidnesset is not a good fit due to limited usable space and impact on athletics. Councilor Larry Mandel agreed, citing new information warranting a pause and site reconsideration. Councilor Katherine Anderson also supported exploring other options. - On Item 33 (funding of architect fee), Dr. Earl requested a hold due to a preliminary surplus of $2.1 million for the school department. Council members expressed differing views; some believed the school committee should pay from its own funds. The council decided to defer action until the school department's audit is complete, noting the school committee has already committed $880,000 toward the work. The council directed the school committee to explore options and report back by the August meeting. New Business - Resolution Recognizing Pride Month (Item 34): Councilor Anderson introduced a resolution recognizing June 2023 as North Kingstown Pride Month. The resolution passed unanimously after a motion and second. - Appointment to 350th Anniversary Committee (Item 35): The council appointed Councilors Matt McCoy and Larry Mandel to the 350th Anniversary Committee. - Correspondence (Item 36): A list of correspondence received since the last meeting was read, primarily concerning the middle school project, school committee capital request, and other community issues. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved with item 11 removed and subsequently approved after discussion. - Leisure Services Advisory Committee appointment of Jeffrey Smith approved. - Pride Month resolution approved unanimously. - School committee architect fee funding request deferred pending school department audit; council directed school committee to explore alternative sites and report back by August. - Councilors McCoy and Mandel appointed to the 350th Anniversary Committee. - The meeting adjourned after all business.

This was a short meeting of the North Kingstown Planning Commission, primarily focused on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2022 application certification and approval of the previous meeting's minutes. Discussion Items - Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2022 Application Certification: The commission reviewed a required certification that the proposed activities in the CDBG application do not conflict with the North Kingstown Comprehensive Community Plan or local development ordinances/regulations. Staff member Nicole presented the application, which included three sub-recipient requests: a $5,000 scholarship program for the town's summer recreation camp for low-income families (requested by Chelsea), housing services from Kingstown Crossings, and redevelopment of Yorktown Park. An administrative fee of $500 was also included. Nicole explained that the town's summer camp scholarship program was previously funded at higher levels but reduced due to stricter CDBG auditing and staffing issues; this year's $5,000 request was deemed appropriate. Commissioner Borowick noted that the proposed activities appeared consistent with the comprehensive plan. The Chair invited public comment, but none was offered. Key Outcomes - Certification of No Conflict: The commission voted unanimously (all ayes, no nays) to certify that the proposed CDBG activities are not in conflict with the comprehensive plan or local development regulations. - Approval of Minutes: The commission approved the minutes from the June 6, 2023 meeting as amended (comment provided by Beth). Motion passed unanimously. - Adournment: The meeting was adjourned after the votes.

Monday, June 12, 2023, at 7:00 PM (following executive session) in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a public hearing on transfer station fees, consent agenda items, reports, old and new business, including a contentious discussion on a proposed middle school architect fee and the potential dissolution of the Groundwater Committee. Consent Calendar - Items 7, 8, 10, 12–21, and 23 were approved en bloc with no discussion. Item 9 (cyber security control plan, $68,500) was pulled by Councilor Mancini for additional explanation; it was later approved. Item 11 (fireworks permit for Plum Beach Club) was pulled for clarification and approved. Item 22 (first reading of Conservation Commission amendment) was pulled by Councilor Mandel; Council voted to accept it as a first reading, with the public hearing set for July 17. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathleen Garino (Groundwater Committee member) expressed shock and dismay at the proposed dissolution of the Groundwater Committee (item 30), arguing it was done without notice and that North Kingstown’s sole-source aquifer is threatened by PFAS and climate change. She urged the Council not to approve item 30 or item 22. - Eric Wishart spoke in support of reappointing Tracy McHugh to the Planning Commission, citing her skills and her role in the Rolling Greens vote. - Ryan O’Dell questioned the school committee’s request for $1.7 million for architect fees, stating the school department has millions in surplus and that the contract may not guarantee cost certainty. He urged the Council to hold the school accountable. - Richard Welch opposed the school funding and argued the architect should work on contingency; he also supported retaining the Groundwater Committee, noting PFAS contamination and water department transparency issues. - Marie Jackson raised traffic concerns for the proposed middle school at Quidnessett, including road capacity and the cutting of 20 acres of trees. - Frances Slade called for an environmental impact study before any further spending, citing soil and groundwater contamination from the former Quonset site. - Kurt Fisher requested improved playground signage on Phillips Street. He also supported the Groundwater Committee and commended the town manager. - Florentina Dupree (parent) questioned the middle school plan, citing construction noise, traffic, and lack of answers. She asked for a point of contact for her questions. - Ricky Thompson opposed both the Groundwater Committee dissolution and the school architect funding, noting the town’s fund balance should not be used as a “piggy bank.” - Jan McAleer (Conservation Commission member) asked about the motivation for merging the Groundwater Committee and Conservation Commission, and expressed concern that new qualification language might discourage lay members. - Donna Hutchinson supported the merger, noting that Conservation Commission has more influence, but encouraged better outreach via social media to fill vacancies. Discussion Items - Transfer Station Fee Amendment (Public Hearing): No public speakers. Council approved the amendment effective upon passage. - Item 9 – Cybersecurity Control Plan (Envision Technology): IT Director Mike Follen explained the “zero trust architecture” to prevent lateral movement if a machine is infected. Council approved after questioning. - Town Manager Report (Ralph Mollis): - New senior center bus (donated by Tom Maiozzi) nearing operation. - Water department secured $4M state grant for a new well site on Gilbert Stuart Road (PFAS-free, no cost to customers). - Former Walgreens leased to Dollar Tree; town will work to make it compatible with Wickford Village. - Boards/commissions communication survey showed most boards satisfied; next steps to improve liaison. - RIPTA Wickford Junction loop starts June 17. - Blood drive June 13. - State budget includes $300,000 more in education aid; bond authorization bills sent to governor. - No inquiries yet for cannabis establishments. - Cyber attack update: $220K spent so far, $25K lost revenue; forensic audit ongoing; 71% of attacks cost over $5M. - Interim Finance Director Report (Deb Brigham): Projected surplus of $1.2M due to higher interest income (4–4.5%) and tangible property tax. Audit to begin soon; expects on-time report by Dec 31. - Item 26 – 55 Brown Street Update: Town Manager reported that developer Eve cannot meet July 31 deadline; construction costs rose from $1.3M to $5.9M. Council agreed to invite her to July or August meeting for a presentation. - Item 27 – School Committee Request for $1.7M Architect Fee: School Committee Chair Aaron Earle and staff presented the request, noting it is part of a required Stage 2 RIDE application due September. They argued it is a community project and funding from school reserves would delay other capital projects (e.g., Hamilton fire system, Stony Lane roof). Town Manager noted drawing down town fund balance would reduce interest income ($80K/year) and potentially affect bond ratings. Council deferred decision to June 26 meeting, allowing time for public input. - Items 28-29 – CRMC Applications: Approved without objection (Wickford parking lot seawall and residential boating facility). - Item 30 – Resolution Discharging Groundwater Committee: Councilor Anderson moved to continue (table) to July 17 meeting to allow for further public discussion; motion passed. - Appointments: Various boards filled (see Key Outcomes). - Item 46 – Request for Crosswalk to Veterans Memorial Park: Approved. - Items 47-51 – Budget and Tax Measures: All approved (Vote Ordering Tax, all funds appropriations, library fund, school funds, development surety). Key Outcomes - Transfer Station Fee Amendment: Approved (effective immediately). - Item 9 – Cybersecurity Contract: Approved ($68,500 from insurance deductible account). - Item 11 – Fireworks Permit: Approved for Plum Beach Club on June 30, 2023. - Item 22 – Conservation Commission Amendment: First reading passed; public hearing July 17. - Item 27 – School Architect Fee: Deferred to June 26 meeting. - Item 30 – Groundwater Committee Dissolution: Continued to July 17 meeting. - Appointments Made: - Asset Management Commission: John Lees, John Pyne, James Halley (at-large), Susan Gardiner (technical), Lisa Bowe (school committee). - Audit Committee: Kerry McKay. - Building Code Board of Appeals: Tracey McHugh (member), Jacob Clemen (1st alt), Joseph Gentile (2nd alt). - Charter Review Commission: Melissa Devine. - Leisure Services Advisory Committee: James Findley and Keith Finck reappointed; decision on Jeffrey Smith and Neil Labove deferred. - Library Board of Trustees: Thomas Sgouros (appointed). - Personnel Board: To be re-advertised. - Planning Commission: Tracey McHugh (reappointed). - Probate Judge: Brian Fielding (reappointed). - Veterans Memorial Scholarship Fund: Patricia Siegmund. - Wickford Advisory Committee: Donald Nixon. - Wickford Village Design Guidelines Committee: Donald Nixon (alternate). - Zoning Board of Review: Patricia Siegmund (reappointed). - Item 46 – Crosswalk Request: Approved, town manager to renew request with RIDOT. - Items 47-51 – Budget/Tax: All approved. No motions or votes were taken on the school committee funding request or the groundwater committee dissolution, as those were deferred.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall at 80 Boston Neck Rd. The commission addressed a surety reduction, a development plan review waiver, two zoning ordinance recommendation letters, and the approval of previous meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Kathleen Garino (139 Summit View Lane, North Kingstown) expressed appreciation that the meeting was held in the Town Hall building, which has a hearing loop system that allowed her to follow the meeting clearly via her hearing aids. She noted that at the municipal office building she can hear almost nothing. Discussion Items - 3.a Surety Reduction: Dusty Hollow – Town Engineer Allie presented a request to reduce the surety for Dusty Hollow by $104,362.22, leaving a retainer of $33,695.18 (10%). The recommendation was to approve. A motion was made and seconded; the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval. - 3.b Development Plan Review Waiver Request: Lil Rhody Pickleball – The applicant, Richard Storti (represented by partner Kevin O'Brien), requested a waiver for development plan review to convert an existing retail space into an indoor pickleball facility (5 courts, 10,000 sq ft) in Kingstown Plaza, 6615 Post Road. The property is in the groundwater recharge area. Staff noted no extensive exterior changes, anticipated maximum of 20 patrons plus 2 staff, no new showers or bathrooms. The building official required a DEM suitability determination for the septic system. Commission discussed and then voted unanimously to grant the waiver. - 3.c Recommendation Letter for 84 Pleasant Valley Road (Plat 129, Lot 9) – A text amendment to remove use restrictions on property zoned General Business Use Limited. The staff report included a recommendation that bicycle and sidewalk connections consistent with the Comprehensive Plan be incorporated. After discussion about making this a condition or simply an emphasized recommendation, the commission agreed to move the language to the end of the letter, changing “shall” to “should be considered.” The motion to approve the recommendation with that amendment carried unanimously. - 3.d Recommendation Letter for 3681 Quaker Lane Realty LLC (Plat 129, Lot 3) – Application to change zoning from Neighborhood Business (NB) to General Business (GB). The commission applied the same bicycle accommodation language as in the previous item. A motion to recommend approval with the amendment was seconded and passed unanimously. - 4.a Minutes Approval – Minutes of May 2, 2023, were approved as amended (with a correction submitted by Eric Wishart). Minutes of May 16, 2023, were approved as amended (with comments sent via email). One commissioner abstained from the May 16 vote due to absence. Key Outcomes - Surety Reduction (Dusty Hollow): Unanimous vote to recommend approval. - Development Plan Review Waiver (Lil Rhody Pickleball): Unanimous vote to grant the waiver. - Zoning Recommendation (84 Pleasant Valley Road): Unanimous vote to recommend approval with added language on bicycle/sidewalk considerations. - Zoning Recommendation (3681 Quaker Lane): Unanimous vote to recommend approval with the same bicycle language. - Minutes: May 2 and May 16 approved (May 16: one abstention). - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned after public comment.

The North Kingstown Town Council held its regular meeting on Monday, May 22, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Gregory A. Mancini, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance and a brief announcement about the upcoming Memorial Day observance on May 29th. No members of the public signed up for public comment. Consent Calendar - Items 11 through 20 were approved unanimously as part of the consent agenda. These included routine approvals such as license renewals, permit authorizations, and a letter of resignation from the Library Board of Trustees. - Several items were removed from the consent agenda for separate discussion: Item 6 (Food Pantry lease extension), Items 7-10 (IT-related expenditures), and Item 21 (Transfer Station fee schedule). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Items 7-10: Cybersecurity Update and IT Expenditures: Town Manager Ralph provided an update on the ransomware cyber attack that occurred on April 22, 2023. He stated the town was 99% operational, with no personal data of employees or residents compromised. The town partnered with Envision Technology Advisors for forensic audit, threat remediation, and data privacy assistance. Council members discussed the need for improved cybersecurity measures, including moving to Microsoft Government cloud, upgrading firewalls, and enhancing phishing protection. The expenditures (totaling approximately $12,350 for forensic audit, $9,314.55 for firewall hardware, $8,600 for setup, $12,741/month for Microsoft licenses, $22,420 for data migration, $7,500 for software resale, and $34,944/year for service delivery) are expected to be reimbursed by insurance. Council commended IT staff for their response. - Item 21: Transfer Station Fee Schedule Amendment: The proposed fee schedule increased the sticker cost to $15 per sheet. Council had concerns about clarifying battery fees (large vs. small) and communicating to the public that the increase is due to rising disposal costs from Rhode Island Resource Recovery. An amendment was made to clarify battery wording, and a memo will be prepared explaining the rationale. - Town Manager Report: Ralph reported on several items: Library closure for software upgrade, AED installations, police body camera pilot program, recognition of officers for awards, town beach and splash pad opening for Memorial Day, receipt of a Clean Energy Award, and state funding requests for a recreation center, town beach master plan, and Frenchtown Road bridge. He also provided an update on the Annaquatucket Road Sidewalk Project, estimating costs between $170,000 and $250,000. Council expressed interest but asked for a prioritization of public works projects before committing funds. - Item 23: Resolution to Join Rhode Island Municipal Education Compact: Ralph presented the resolution, which would allow the town to apply for state funding for innovative after-school or summer learning programs. Council supported the initiative, with some members emphasizing the need to coordinate with the school department and address childcare needs. The resolution was adopted. - Finance Director Report: Finance Director Jim announced his departure after six years. He reported an estimated surplus of about $1 million for the current fiscal year, strong revenue, and clean audits. He thanked the council and staff. Council acknowledged his service. - Item 25: Open Space Conservation Report: Nicole presented a report showing that over 8,000 acres (approximately one-third of the town) are preserved. Recent successes include the Crookshing property wetland easement. Council discussed balancing open space with housing development pressures, and Nicole noted that growth management focuses development near existing infrastructure. - Item 26: Short-Term Rental Evaluation Update: The administration recommended establishing a registry for short-term rentals. Council requested a cost-benefit analysis, revenue projections, enforcement mechanisms, and checks on whether rental owners are improperly receiving homestead exemptions. The administration will return with a proposed ordinance. - Item 27: Analysis of Boards and Commissions: Nicole presented a comprehensive analysis of the town’s 25 boards and commissions, recommending consolidation or elimination of some (e.g., Police Pension Board, Energy Advisory Committee, consolidation of Groundwater with Conservation Commission). Council decided to delay action until input is sought from affected boards, and also discussed improving communication between boards and the council. Key Outcomes - Items 6, 7-10, and 21 (as amended) were approved separately from the consent agenda. - Resolution to join the Rhode Island Municipal Education Compact was adopted unanimously. - Tracy McCue was reappointed to the Charter Review Commission (one of two open seats; no other applicant). - The transfer station fee ordinance moved to first reading with an amendment to clarify battery fees. - The town manager was directed to provide a prioritized list of public works projects, an updated ARPA fund analysis, and a cost-benefit analysis for short-term rental registry. - The analysis of boards and commissions will be revisited after gathering input from the respective bodies; staff will bring forward proposed ordinance and resolution changes for consolidation/elimination. - Meeting adjourned.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission convened on May 16, 2023, at 7:00 PM at the Municipal Offices Building, 100 Fairway Dr., North Kingstown, RI. The meeting addressed several land use applications, including a withdrawn waiver request, a variance approval for workforce housing in the Quonset Business Park, and multiple zoning and comprehensive plan amendments for parcels along Quaker Lane and Pleasant Valley Road. Key decisions were made, and several items were continued for further review. Consent Calendar - No formal consent calendar was presented, but the meeting included the approval of minutes from April 4, 2023, and April 18, 2023, with minor editorial changes. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the meeting. Discussion Items - Item 3A: Waiver Request Withdrawn – The applicant, A.R. Building Company, withdrew its waiver request for the Post Road Apartments (138-unit multi-family project) via email from attorney John Bolton, stating the project was not moving forward. No action was taken by the commission. - Item 3B: QDC Major Variance – Decision Letter Approved – The commission reviewed and voted 4-0 to approve a decision letter for the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC) requesting a major variance to allow workforce housing within the Quonset Business Park (Assessor's Plat 182 Lots 9, 16, 17). Commissioner Borowick suggested a minor wording change (replacing 'under the procedures' with 'requires that development proposals… be reviewed'), which was accepted. Chair Grundy recused himself from this vote. - Items 3C & 3D: 3760 Quaker Lane – Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Zoning Map Amendment – These applications sought to change the Future Land Use Map from Commercial and Low Density Residential to Commercial, and the zoning from General Business/Rural Residential to General Business on a 7.5-acre parcel. The applicant (represented by Nicholas Goodyear, attorney; Nicholas Heatland, engineer; and Edward Pimentel, planning consultant) proposed a conservation easement over environmentally constrained rear portions. The commission debated past encroachment and restoration promises from a previous application. Chair Grundy expressed concern about trustworthiness, noting the applicant had previously agreed to restore illegally used residential land but appeared to still be using it. After discussion, the commission voted unanimously to continue the public hearing to July 18, 2023, to allow for a site visit and review of prior meeting minutes. - Items 3E & 3F: 84 Pleasant Valley Road and 70 Pleasant Valley Road – Zoning Ordinance Amendments – Both parcels are located on Quaker Lane near the projects above. Item 3E sought to remove use restrictions (adopted under ordinance 91-10) on a General Business Use Limited parcel; Item 3F sought to rezone a parcel from Neighborhood Business to General Business. The commission noted that the surrounding area is predominantly General Business, making the Neighborhood Business designation inconsistent and potentially spot zoning. Commissioner McCue recommended incorporating bike safety improvements from the Comprehensive Plan. No public comment was heard. The commission reached positive consensus on both items, agreeing that staff should draft formal recommendations to the Town Council. These recommendations will be brought back for a vote on June 6, 2023. A motion to continue to that date passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Item 3B: Approved decision letter to QDC (4-0; Grundy recused). - Items 3C/3D: Continued to July 18, 2023, with a site visit and review of prior minutes (unanimous). - Item 3E (84 Pleasant Valley Road): Positive consensus to remove use restrictions; formal recommendation to be presented June 6, 2023 (5-0). - Item 3F (70 Pleasant Valley Road): Positive consensus to rezone to General Business; formal recommendation to be presented June 6, 2023 (5-0). - Minutes: Approved for April 4, 2023 (5-0) and April 18, 2023 (4-0, with Grundy and McCue excused from one vote). - Adjournment: Motion passed.

The meeting was called to order with a brief technical discussion regarding accessing emails and the eTabs system. The available transcript is extremely limited and does not capture the substantive agenda items scheduled for the meeting, including the guest speaker on affordable housing, economic monitoring updates, or the revisit of the Post Road Utility Easement initiative. No votes, decisions, or public comments were recorded in the provided recording.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on May 8, 2023, at 6:45 PM for an executive session, followed by the regular meeting at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was the consideration of three potential bond questions totaling $247.46 million: $167.46 million for a new middle school and school renovations, $55 million for a public safety complex, and $25 million for an indoor recreation center/emergency shelter. After extensive presentations, public comment, and debate, the council voted to submit two separate bond acts to the General Assembly: one combining school and public safety projects ($222.46 million) and one for the recreation center ($25 million). Consent Calendar - The council approved Items 7, 8, 10–12, and 14–21 as a block. Items 9 and 13 were removed for separate discussion. - Item 9 (Dunkin Donuts banner at McGinn Skate Park): Approved unanimously after a brief discussion of precedent. The donation of $400 will be used by the Recreation Department. - Item 13 (Solid Waste Contract with RIRRC): Approved unanimously; the town manager confirmed a fee increase at the transfer station will be proposed later. Public Comments & Testimony - John Machado (103 West Main Street): Requested a volunteer waiver to allow citizens to maintain trails at Ryan Park, citing safety risks from disrepair. Town Manager Ralph Mollis committed to exploring a waiver and contacting DEM about wetland definitions. - Annika Erickson (96 Mesa Drive): Senior and swim team captain, spoke in favor of adding a pool to the proposed recreation center, noting the long travel distances for swim team practice and the importance of water safety. - Francis Slade (30 Linwood Drive): Provided correspondence from the Army Corps of Engineers regarding past contamination at the Quidnessett Elementary site, expressing concerns about traffic, lighting, and water table impacts on the neighborhood if a new middle school is built there. - Kathleen Gorino (139 Summit View Lane): Expressed full support for all three bond projects, though she abstained on the pool after hearing cost concerns. - Pam Panero (710 Slocum Road): Supported a new middle school but had reservations about adding fifth grade and transportation from outlying areas. Urged three separate ballot questions. - Other speakers: Keith McConnell, Nancy Sherman, Meg Kerr (Democratic Town Committee), and Diane Hill spoke in favor of the projects, with emphasis on net-zero construction and timely action. Discussion Items - Bond Question Presentations: - Recreation Center: Recreation Director Chelsea presented a need report showing projected program increases (seniors 60%, adults 60%, high school 40%, middle school 100%, elementary 40%, preschool 100%). She detailed pool costs: $9 million construction, $350,000–$400,000 annual payroll, plus $70,000 biannual safety and filtration costs, and estimated $1.5 million annual operating cost. The town manager advised against a pool due to maintenance and lifeguard shortages. - Public Safety Complex: Fire Chief Scott Cattel and architect Michael Viveros described the 1957 building as outdated, cramped, and unhealthy. The $55 million estimate includes demolition, construction, and soft costs; no site acquisition is needed. The manager expressed disappointment at the price tag but emphasized the need. - School Bond: School Committee Chair Aaron Earle and architect Joseph Costa (Perkins Eastman) presented a plan for a single 5–8 middle school at Quidnessett Elementary, serving 1,200 students. Hard costs estimated at $79 million (180,000 sq ft at $440/sq ft), plus site work, demolition, contingencies, and escalation, totaling $142 million construction cost, with soft costs pushing the total to $167 million. RI Department of Education’s Mario Carrano noted base reimbursement of 35% plus up to 17.5% bonus for consolidation and energy efficiency, expiring December 2023. The school committee requested flexible language to allow unused bond funds for other school projects. - Financial Impact: PFM’s Steve Massoni presented debt service projections. Under 35% reimbursement, the combined projects would increase the tax rate by $2.06 per $1,000 (or $927/year on a $450,000 home). Under 52.5% reimbursement, the impact drops to $1.80 per $1,000 ($810/year). The town’s AA+ bond rating is expected to be maintained. - Council Deliberation: The council debated whether to submit one, two, or three bond questions. Councilman Mancini recused himself due to a conflict of interest (construction trade union representation). After a motion to list all three separately failed (2-2-1), a motion to pair the school and public safety projects together (Option 3) and the recreation center separately passed 4-0. The language for the school bond was amended to “school purposes, including but not limited to the construction of a new middle school” to allow flexibility for other school capital needs. Key Outcomes - Vote: The council approved a resolution to request the General Assembly to enact two bond acts: one for $222.46 million (school purposes including a new middle school, and public safety complex) and one for $25 million (indoor recreation center/emergency shelter). Each will be subject to voter approval at separate referenda. - Consent Agenda: Approved as amended. - Other Actions: - Approved two appointments to the Arts Council (William and Samoa Matson). - Approved a letter of support for the ChargeNK program and for HistWick’s Rhody Community Impact Award nomination. - Approved a resolution welcoming the Golden Rule Peace Ship. - Authorized removal of liability insurance requirement for the Beach Library project (covered by the town’s trust). - The town manager reported on the ransomware attack (no financial/personal data compromised), senior center bus delivery, park vandalism, and the upcoming departure of Finance Director Jim Lathrop.