Public Meetings - North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The meeting was called to order at 4:15 PM. The agenda included only routine items: call to order, notice of posting, general business, minutes, and adjournment. No substantive discussion, public comments, or votes occurred. The meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

Date: Monday, April 24, 2023 | Location: Town Hall Council Chambers, 80 Boston Neck Road | Start Time: 7:00 PM | Presiding: Council President Gregory A. Mancini The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including multiple public hearings on alcohol licenses and zoning amendments, adoption of the Fiscal Year 2023/2024 budget, and discussion of a carbon monoxide incident at Reynolds Farm. The council also approved numerous consent agenda items, including donations and contract awards. Public Hearings Class B-Limited Alcoholic Beverage License (New): The application from Shayna's Place, LLC (45 Brown Street) was withdrawn. The council then approved a new Class B-Limited license for K&R II Enterprises, dba The Frozen Cow / Roy Boys Clam Shack, at 6710 Post Road. The motion passed unanimously. Wickford on the Water Expansion (JB on the Water, 85 Brown Street): A prolonged public hearing featured extensive testimony. Supporters, including neighboring business owners (Dan Goldman, Green River Silver Company; Jack Cleaver, Wickford Village Association; James Hawley; Mark Clinton; Holly Walsh; Carrie Colb; Rick Lavalette; Anahid Sardelli; Allie Hunt; Brian Barker; Natalie Colletta; Julie Beebe), argued that the restaurant is a vital economic anchor that brings visitors to Wickford, extends the business day, and fills a need for year-round dining. Opponents, primarily abutters Rick Moore (17 Main Street) and former Representative Larry Earhart (49 Main Street), raised concerns about parking availability, noise from a proposed second-floor outdoor deck, and the use of a church parking lot for employees. They requested that the council delay a decision on permanent outdoor seating pending the town's parking study (expected December 2023). The council voted 4-1 (Councilor Anderson dissenting) to approve the expansion of the premises for the full alcohol, victualing, and entertainment licenses. The motion included the 32 COVID-era outdoor patio seats (on the lower level) and the 49 additional seats on the second floor (indoor and outdoor deck), but subject to all necessary state and local land use approvals (CRMC, Design Review, etc.). Council President Mancini emphasized the need for collaboration between businesses and residents. Second Reading – Zoning Amendments (Recreational Marijuana, Tobacco, Alcohol, Parks): The council held public hearings on four zoning and ordinance amendments related to recreational marijuana, tobacco, alcohol in public places, and parks. No members of the public signed up to speak. All four second readings (Items 6-9) were closed and the ordinances were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony Jennifer Lima (4 Hickory Drive East), co-president of Towards an Anti-Racist North Kingstown, announced the town’s first-ever Pride Parade, planned for June 3, 2023, at 10:00 AM, organized with Black Lives Matter RI PAC and Rhode Island Queer Pack. She requested the council’s support. Harrison Tuttle, president of Black Lives Matter RI PAC, echoed the announcement and confirmed coordination with Senator Bridget Valverde and the North Kingstown Police Department. Nancy White Sherman (64 Pleasant Street) urged the council to add an Olympic-sized swimming pool to the upcoming fall bond referendum, citing high demand at nearby pools (Kent Y, South County Y, URI) and the health benefits for all ages. Adoption of Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Budget The council adopted the final budget totaling $129,833,966 across all funds. The general fund is $39,370,562; debt service is $5,365,110; water fund is $5,784,736; sewer fund is $2,568,684; and the town appropriation for schools is $59,526,442 with state aid of $11,557,376. Enterprise funds (school food service, athletics, etc.) total $1,245,000. Restricted funds (special revenue) are $6,098,500. The vote was unanimous. Councilor Mandel raised a concern about the town manager and finance director having read-only access to the school department’s financial records, given recent turnover. After discussion, the council approved the budget without a formal condition but agreed to request that the town manager follow up with the school committee on transparency. Consent Agenda (Items 11-37) Items Removed for Discussion: Item 11 (Minutes): Approved minutes for March 13 and March 16; continued the minutes from March 20. Item 19 (Eco-Land Art Installation): Susan Fox and Marianne O’Hallor presented their proposal for “land art” installations (stone and plant mandalas) on town property. The first site will be on the bike/walking path near the boat launch on Intrepid Drive. The council approved the initial installation, with the understanding that future sites must come back for approval. A temporary demonstration piece during the Wickford Art Festival was allowed administratively. Item 21 (Acuity Streetlight Subscription): A five-year subscription for streetlight monitoring and operations. Town Manager Ralph Mollis stated it was a sole-source agreement as it services existing equipment. The council approved. Item 36 (Reynolds Farm Phase 2D Bond Reduction): The bond was reduced from $1,448,336.82 to $1,156,379.13 (a reduction of $291,957.69). Before voting, Fire Chief Scott Cattell provided a detailed report on a March 28 carbon monoxide incident caused by blasting. Carbon monoxide from blasting traveled through ledge into four homes, putting residents in hotels for three days. The chief explained that the developer’s actions were legal but that the town has limited authority. The council approved the bond reduction and noted that affected residents may have a civil claim. Items Not Removed (Approved En Bloc): Items 12-18, 20, 22-30, and 38 were approved as part of the consent agenda. Notable among them: acceptance of donations ($5,058.40 for a community center stove; materials for Little League field improvements; the Mill Cove footbridge from the Land Conservancy); approval of various licenses and permits (fireworks for July 3; entertainment for Ocean State Pops, NK Arts Council, Wickford Village Association, etc.); and contract awards (road striping, Ryan Park backstop, fire hydrants). Reports Town Manager Ralph Mollis: Reported on the Boston Neck Road paving project (paused for summer); town beach opening (May 27-Sept 4) with parking pass sales starting May 1; a new one-year YMCA lifeguard contract for $97,660; the town’s recognition by RI Office of Energy Resources for clean energy projects; and the upcoming upgrade to the town’s financial software (payment system down April 25-27, late fee extension to May 5). He also highlighted the AED installation program (71 units across parks and fields), the street sweeping schedule, and an Amtrak project near Davisville (overnight work through May 5). Finance Director Jim Lathrop: Reported a projected surplus of over $1.5 million for FY2023, driven by higher interest income ($800,000) and police detail revenue. He noted a large projected surplus in Public Works ($600,000) due to vacant positions and a mild snow season, which may be transferred to capital. Recreation is projecting a deficit; a detailed breakdown will be provided. Cash on hand is approximately $45 million. New Business Audit Committee Appointment: The council approved Rachael Suvari as an Accounting Representative for a term to March 1, 2027. It was noted that two other members (Sarah Lee Norton and Richard August) have left the committee. Resolution for Rhode Island Day at Vicksburg National Military Park: Councilor McCoy sponsored a resolution declaring November 18, 2023 as Rhode Island Day at Vicksburg in honor of Private George P. Rose of Company F, 7th Rhode Island Volunteers, who died in the Mississippi campaign. The resolution was adopted unanimously. Key Outcomes Approved: Class B-Limited license for Roy Boys Clam Shack. Approved (4-1): Expansion of Wickford on the Water’s licenses, including second-floor seating and permanent outdoor patio (subject to permits and approvals). Approved Unanimously: Four zoning/ordinance amendments (recreational marijuana, tobacco, alcohol, parks). Adopted Unanimously: FY2023/2024 budget of $129,833,966. Approved: Eco-Land Art installation at Intrepid Drive bike path (first site), plus temporary demo at art festival. Approved: Acuity streetlight subscription; Reynolds Farm bond reduction; and remainder of consent agenda. Appointed: Rachael Suvari to Audit Committee. Adopted: Resolution for Rhode Island Day at Vicksburg. Received: Manager’s and Finance Director’s reports with noted updates. Next Steps: Town manager to follow up on school financial transparency; fire chief to meet with developer to prevent future CO incidents; parking study continues with public hearing expected in December 2023.

This public hearing focused on the Town Council's preliminary adopted budget for Fiscal Year 2023-2024, split into a municipal budget presentation at 6:30 PM and a school budget presentation at 7:00 PM. The town manager presented the municipal budget, and the school committee chair and interim superintendent presented the school budget. Public comments were received on both portions. The council will deliberate and consider adoption at the next meeting on April 24, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony - George Silver (resident for 55 years, age 98) requested a freeze on property taxes for senior homeowners, leaving the age limit to the council. - Richard Welch (resident since 1974, former school committee chair) expressed opposition to additional school funding, stating the school department is an "embarrassment" and criticizing unfilled positions, signing bonuses, and high teacher compensation. - Ricky Thompson questioned the planned use of $1.25 million from the undesignated fund (rainy day fund), arguing it violates the town's fund balance policy (8–15% ceiling). Town manager Ralph Mollis responded that the policy ceiling is 15% (about $17 million) and the current unrestricted balance of $13.3 million is well below that, and the one-time use is appropriate. - Tom Schaeffer supported mental health funding in schools, citing personal loss to student suicide in his son's class. - Ann Gertman expressed gratitude for school staff and support for the mental health line items in the school budget. - Lise Felice (health professional) supported the mental health and special education increases, acknowledging the challenges of staffing and learning gaps. Discussion Items - Municipal Budget Presentation: Town manager Ralph Mollis presented a total budget of $129,833,960, with a general fund of $117,516,757 (funded by taxes, state aid, departmental revenue, etc.) and enterprise funds of $12,317,209 (funded by users). Key points: a proposed 2% tax increase, use of $3.5 million in OPEB, fund balance, and restricted accounts for one-time initiatives (road paving, police officers, AEDs, pickleball courts, etc.). Fund balance has grown from $10 million in 2017 to $19.8 million (unrestricted $13.3 million). The budget includes $700,000 for road paving, two additional police officers, and senior center repairs. - School Budget Presentation: Superintendent Frank Pallada and School Committee Chair Aaron Earl presented a budget request of $2,252,907 increase (3.934%) from the town, totaling approximately $76 million. 97% of costs are fixed; 3% discretionary (supplies). Additions include 4.2 FTE teachers (two school psychologists, one PE/health, one special education resource teacher). Enrollment down by 41 students (primarily from Jamestown). The district lacked a financial director for six months; further challenges include ESSER funding expiring and pandemic-related learning loss and mental health needs. - Read-Only Access MOU: Council member Katherine Anderson inquired about read-only access to school finances for the town. Town manager noted an MOU previously existed but access was revoked when the school began independent accounting. Chair Earl committed to revisiting the issue with new leadership (superintendent and finance director). - Tuition & Jamestown Contract: Council member Larry Mandel questioned why out-of-district tuition revenue was flat despite likely cost increases. Controller Elle Phoenix explained the Jamestown contract is complex with exclusions; revised projections now show over $200,000 less than budgeted. The district hopes to attract other tuition students to offset. - IDEA Funding: Council member McCoy asked if IDEA covers all special education costs; it was clarified that IDEA covers only a portion, with the rest funded through the general fund. Key Outcomes - The meeting was a public hearing only; no votes were taken. - The council will deliberate and potentially adopt the preliminary budget at the next meeting on April 24, 2023. - The school committee chair committed to revisiting the MOU on read-only access with the new superintendent and finance director. - Council encouraged continued advocacy to the state for mental health funding and staffing support. - The town manager clarified that the use of fund balance for one-time initiatives does not violate the fund balance policy, as the unrestricted balance remains within the 8–15% threshold.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, April 4, 2023, at 7:00 PM in Town Hall. The agenda included three main items: a waiver request for a smoke shop, a major variance request from Quonset Development Corporation (QDC) for workforce housing, and a discussion on mandatory conservation development requested by the Groundwater Committee. The commission voted to grant the smoke shop waiver, discussed the conservation development proposal without taking action, and approved a motion to draft a positive letter to QDC while scheduling a public hearing on the housing variance. Consent Calendar - Development Plan Review Waiver (3a): The commission unanimously approved a waiver for Asmat Sadrana to locate a Smoxy Smoke Shop (tobacco retail) at 611 Post Road (Assessor's Plat 175 Lot 149, zoned Post Road, within groundwater wellhead/recharge areas). No interior or exterior building work was proposed; the space is currently vacant. The waiver was granted without discussion or opposition. Public Comments & Testimony - John (last name not given) spoke in support of the concept of mandatory conservation development, emphasizing that minimizing woodland destruction best protects groundwater recharge. He noted that requiring conservation development could help developers prepare ahead and promote responsible development town-wide. Discussion Items - 3c – Mandatory Conservation Development (Groundwater Committee request): The commission considered a letter from the Groundwater Committee asking the Planning Commission to evaluate making conservation development mandatory in North Kingstown, based on a Charlestown ordinance. Planning Director Nicole provided background: Charlestown adopted a mandatory ordinance in August 2022 but has not yet used it, and the new town council is revisiting it. North Kingstown’s current ordinance (adopted 2006) is voluntary. Staff noted that most recent developments (e.g., Sanctuary, Tide Mill, Northridge, Weed and Farm, Harbor View) have used conservation design voluntarily. Town-wide, approximately 8,200 acres (about one-third of the town’s 43 square miles) are preserved as open space, with nearly 3,000 acres preserved through cluster, conservation, and planned village district designs. The commission discussed pros and cons: Chair Grundy and Vice Chair Roach expressed concern that a mandatory approach removes flexibility; they noted that conservation development is already the norm and that site-specific conditions (e.g., connectivity, pedestrian pathways, groundwater nutrient loading) are already addressed through existing regulations. Commissioner McCue asked about open space management, noting homeowner associations can be fragile. Commissioner Wishart agreed that one size does not fit all. Commissioner Kerr suggested that the underlying concerns of the Groundwater Committee could be addressed through other means. It was noted that the Groundwater Committee is advisory to the Water Department, and that procedurally the request should have come through that channel. No action was taken; staff will send a memo to the Groundwater Committee summarizing the discussion and consider a joint meeting in the future. - 3b – Major Variance Request from Quonset Development Corporation (QDC): The commission continued a discussion from February 21 and March 21, 2023, regarding a major variance under Section 4.2.2B of the Quonset Development Package to allow workforce housing on Assessor’s Plat 182, Lots 9, 16, and 17 (zoned Quonset Business Park, Quonset Mixed Use Development District). QDC Director Chelsea (last name not given) presented: the proposal is for 100–120 units (studios and one-bedrooms), no more than 4 stories, at approximately 20 units per acre, using Post Road design guidelines. Income targeting: 80–120% of area median income (approximately $54,000–$81,000 for an individual). At least 10% of units will be deed-restricted affordable. The land is currently zoned for retail, office, hospitality, and recreation—not residential. QDC seeks a land-use determination before soliciting developer proposals. Commissioners expressed concerns about setting a precedent for residential in the business park, the lack of a specific plan, and the need for public input. Chair Grundy noted that the town had previously pushed for residential in the district. The commission discussed imposing conditions on the variance (height, density, affordable percentage) to maintain control, similar to a rezoning. QDC indicated openness to conditions. A motion was made and seconded to authorize staff to draft a letter to QDC expressing positive sentiment toward workforce housing but requiring a public hearing before final approval. The commission also directed staff to work with QDC to schedule a public hearing. The motion carried unanimously. Key Outcomes - Smoke Shop Waiver: Approved unanimously. - Mandatory Conservation Development: No action taken; staff will communicate with Groundwater Committee and consider a joint meeting. - Quonset Workforce Housing Variance: The commission approved a motion to send a positive letter to QDC indicating conceptual support, but with the condition that a public hearing be held before final approval. The letter will also note desired thresholds (e.g., height, density, unit mix, affordability). Staff will coordinate with QDC to schedule a public hearing date. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned by motion.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, March 27, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers after an executive session. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including a consent agenda, public comments, reports from the town manager and finance director, and extensive discussions on potential bond questions for an indoor recreation facility and a public safety complex. The council also approved a legal services agreement regarding PFAS contaminants and addressed several routine items. Consent Calendar - The council approved items 6 through 8, 10, 12 through 18, and 23 through 26 by a single motion. These included minutes, tax abatements, donations, license renewals, and first readings of zoning amendments related to recreational marijuana and tobacco/cannabis restrictions. - Items 9 (Beach Library), 11 (Fire Department rescue vehicle), and 19-22 (Reynolds Farm bond reductions) were pulled from the consent agenda for separate discussion. After discussion, items 9, 11, and 19-22 were all approved. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker (identified as opposing the rec center without further reconciliation) expressed opposition to the proposed indoor recreation center, arguing that the town’s priorities should be a new public safety building and a new middle school. They cited minimal population growth and estimated operational costs of $2 million per year for a 100,000 sq ft building, with a potential $500,000 gap from the general fund. The speaker suggested using the former Lowe's building as a lower-cost alternative and advocated for funds to be used for US-1 revitalization. - Ed Cooney Jr. (22 hours in court) expressed support for the public safety complex, noting that the current building has been poorly maintained. He also supported a new middle school, emphasizing the importance of the 52.5% state reimbursement rate for schools. - Bill Panoyer (180 Lewis Farm Road, East Greenwich) provided an update on Memorial Day parade planning and invited volunteers. - Mary Warback (25 North Road, Saunderstown) advocated for net-zero energy buildings for schools, citing legislation and the example of Discovery Elementary School in Arlington, VA, which saved $17,000/year in utility costs. - Nancy White Sherman (64 Pleasant Street) strongly supported including a pool in the recreation center, citing health benefits, revenue potential from swim lessons and rentals, and demand at other pools. She noted that North Kingstown's swim team has limited practice time due to pool availability. - Ed Andrews (50 North Road, Saunderstown) expressed support for the recreation center as a quality-of-life issue and legacy project for the council. - Bob Vanderslice (151 Prospect Avenue) expressed optimism about the council’s ability to maintain new buildings, supported net-zero design, and encouraged the council to be leaders. - Kathleen Gurino (139 Summit View Lane) thanked the council, asked about the proposed location of the rec center, and supported all three projects (rec center, public safety, middle school) but questioned the rec center’s location in Quonset. Discussion Items - Town Manager Report: Ralph Mollis reported on the Wickford Village Parking Study (kickoff meeting March 14, data collection April-July, public hearing in July, final report by end of year). The Wickford School House condominium project (39 units reduced to 37 due to historic tax credits) is targeting a spring 2024 construction start. Road paving begins April 3. The town is pursuing a Community Electricity Aggregation program and locked in a 32-month energy contract saving $528,000. The water department applied for over $16 million in state funding for well and PFAS treatment projects. The town is preserving two additional parcels (Crookshank and Grossman properties). A report on land conservation accomplishments will be presented in April or May. The annual Easter egg hunt is scheduled for April 1 at Wilson Park. - Finance Director Report: Jim Lathrop reported a projected surplus of $1.2 million (including $250,000 fund balance). He noted $82,000 in outstanding utility credits need to be applied. The town will go live with a MUNIS upgrade in April. A tax sale is planned for June, with about $500,000 in overdue taxes. A 10-year write-off list will be provided to the council before June. - Fire Department Rescue Vehicle (Item 11): The council discussed the single bid of $469,084 from New England Fire Equipment & Apparatus for a Type 1 rescue vehicle. Chief Scott Cattell explained that the price includes a $65,000 power load stretcher system, and that due to supply chain issues, only one bid was received. The delivery timeline is 24 months. Councilman Larry Mandel expressed concern about a single bid, but after discussion, the council approved the purchase unanimously. - Indoor Recreation Facility Bond Discussion (Item 29): Recreation Director Chelsea presented a detailed overview of the proposed facility, including a 55,000 sq ft building with multi-purpose courts, batting cages, a track, fitness space, and classrooms. Over 20 potential sites were considered; three finalist sites were identified (Quonset, a private lot on Post Road, and Davisville Academy). The cost estimate is not yet finalized, but $4 million in ARPA funds are set aside, and federal earmarks are being pursued. The town manager noted that the council would not approve the rec center itself but would put a bond question on the ballot. The manager explained that a pool is not included due to high construction ($2.5-3 million additional) and ongoing operational costs ($1 million/year) plus a national lifeguard shortage. Council members expressed support for the concept but raised concerns about the aggregate bond amount, operational costs, and prioritization relative to the public safety complex and middle school. The council directed the administration to return in April with a financial analysis, including a potential separate pool question and its impacts. - Public Safety Complex Bond Discussion (Item 30): Chief Scott Cattell and Captain John Urban presented the need for a new public safety complex. The current building (constructed in 1957 with additions in 1976 and 2009) is severely outdated, with roof leaks, lack of proper security, no separate female bunk space, and inadequate space for modern operations. The proposed 51,290 sq ft facility would house police, fire, emergency communications, and an emergency operations center. The committee recommended staying on or near the current site to maintain response times. The cost is not yet final, but inflation is adding 5% per year. Council members unanimously expressed strong support, calling it a "need" rather than a "want." The manager requested direction to return in April with a financial analysis and a proposed ballot question, as well as a decision on whether to hire an architect before the bond vote. The council gave unanimous consensus to proceed. - PFAS Legal Services Agreement (Item 31): The council authorized the town manager to sign a contingency fee agreement with a consortium of law firms (including Hamel Waxler, Levin Papantonio, and others) to investigate and pursue claims against manufacturers of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) for contamination of the town's water supply. The firms secured a $670 million settlement with DuPont in 2017 and are currently representing over 100 municipalities. The agreement is on a contingency basis with no upfront cost to the town. The council approved the motion unanimously. - Correspondence (Item 32): Councilman Matthew McCoy read several emails received, including a request for a resolution honoring a Civil War soldier, letters of congratulations for Eagle Scouts, support for the rec center (with and without a pool), and concerns about the proposed toy library at the beach. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: Approved items 6-8, 10, 12-18, and 23-26 unanimously. - Item 9 (Beach Library): Approved unanimously after discussion; the MOU allows for mid-season evaluation. - Item 11 (Fire Rescue Vehicle): Approved unanimously after discussion about the single bid. - Items 19-22 (Reynolds Farm Bond Reductions): Approved unanimously after explanation from Planning Department. - Indoor Recreation Facility: Council directed administration to return in April with financial analysis, bond structure, and a proposed ballot question, including exploration of a separate pool question. Consensus to proceed with planning. - Public Safety Complex: Council directed administration to return in April with financial analysis, bond structure, and a proposed ballot question. Consensus to proceed with planning. - PFAS Legal Services Agreement: Approved unanimously. - Correspondence: Received and filed. - Meeting Adjourned: The meeting adjourned after a long session (no specific time given, but noted as late).

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, March 21, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Town Hall, 80 Boston Neck Rd. The commission addressed multiple agenda items including development plan extensions, surety reductions, a hair salon application, a cannabis ordinance, and a pre-application for a 138-unit apartment complex. Several items were approved unanimously, while the cannabis ordinance review was waived, and the Quonset Development Corporation variance request was continued due to a lack of quorum. Consent Calendar - Langford Estates II Extension Request (3a): Approved unanimously (5-0). The development plan approval dated May 25, 2022, was extended by one year as a by-right request per the ordinance. - WDIC LLC (Reynolds Farm North) Master Plan Second Extension (3b): Approved unanimously (5-0). The one-year extension was granted by right. - Surety Reduction: Reynolds Farm Phase 2A (3c): Approved unanimously (5-0). Guarantee held reduced by $25,690.18 to $168,203.68 (90% completion). - Surety Reduction: Reynolds Farm Phase 2B (3d): Approved unanimously (5-0). Guarantee held reduced by $871,568.13 to $122,225.37 (not yet at 90%). - Surety Reduction: Reynolds Farm Phase 2C (3e): Approved unanimously (5-0). Guarantee held reduced by $358,278.17 to $63,673.95. - Minutes of February 21, 2023 (4a): Approved (5-0, one abstention) subject to minor corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - Lift Hair Studio (3f/3g): Richard Welch (8 RO Lane) expressed concerns about the septic system's history and questioned the town's ability to enforce maintenance, referencing past issues with the Wickford Junction water system. Kathleen Garino (139 Summit View Lane) supported new businesses but stressed the need for verifiable maintenance plans and preferred having Water Director Tim Cranston present. Both spoke against a special use permit without strong enforcement. Discussion Items - Lift Hair Studio Development Plan Review and Special Use Permit Recommendation (3f/3g): Applicant Candace Brisson dba Lift Hair Studio proposed operating a two-chair organic hair salon at 6459 Post Road (AP 157 Lot 74, zoned Post Road District, Groundwater Recharge Overlay). The salon would use 99% plant-derived, ammonia-free products. To mitigate groundwater impacts, a reverse osmosis and granular activated carbon filtration system was proposed, approved by the Water Director. The commission conditioned the development plan approval on a maintenance plan accepted by the Water Department Director. The special use permit recommendation was limited to the use of organic, ammonia-free products as described in the application; any change in product type would require further review. Both motions passed 5-0. - Major Variance Request – Quonset Development Corporation (3h): Continued to the April 4, 2023 meeting because Chair Grundy and Commissioner Wishart recused themselves, leaving fewer than a quorum. Staff will compile comments for the next meeting. - Cannabis Ordinance Review (3i): Chair Grundy and Commissioner Wishart recused, stating their position that cannabis remains federally illegal. The commission voted 4-0 to waive its opportunity to study and recommend to the Town Council, allowing the council to proceed without a commission recommendation. Commissioner Kerr noted several staff-recommended items (e.g., buffer distances, delivery regulations) not included in the draft ordinance. - Pre-Application: Post Road Apartments (3j): AR Building Company proposed a 138-unit, three-building apartment complex (two 69-unit buildings plus clubhouse) on AP 136 Lots 9 and 21, zoned Post Road District. The applicant seeks density relief to 17.64 units/acre (above the by-right 4 units/acre) and to use the 30-unit/acre bonus density tier with 15% affordable units, but requested a variance from the Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) requirement, citing unavailability of TDR certificates. Commissioners expressed concerns about reducing affordable housing below 20% and circumventing the TDR program, which is intended to preserve farmland. No vote was taken; the applicant will incorporate feedback and return for master plan review. Key Outcomes - Lift Hair Studio: Development plan approved (5-0) with condition for Water Department-approved maintenance plan. Special use permit recommended positively (5-0) with limitation to organic/ammonia-free product line as submitted. - Cannabis Ordinance: Commission waived recommendation (4-0); matter moves to Town Council without commission input. - Post Road Apartments: Pre-application discussion only; no formal action. Applicant to address density, affordability, and TDR issues in future applications. - Quonset Variance: Continued to April 4, 2023. - All other consent items and surety reductions approved unanimously.

The Town Council met on Monday, March 20, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. to conduct budget workshops with the School Department, Police/Animal Control/Harbormaster, and Town Clerk/Board of Canvassers/Municipal Court. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the preliminary FY2024 budget, which will be subject to a public hearing on April 19, 2023. Public Comments - Lisa Garcia (math teacher, NK High School, 2022 RI Teacher of the Year) spoke in favor of the school budget, particularly requesting funding for school psychologists. She noted that current psychologists and social workers are overburdened and students cannot receive adequate services. She also highlighted the need for late buses to support student extracurricular participation and after-school academic support, as well as the importance of mental health services for teacher retention and recruitment. - Jordan Albernaz (teacher at NK High School) expressed support for the school budget, stating it was thoughtfully prepared. Discussion Items School Department Budget (FY2024) - Interim Superintendent Frank Pilata presented the school committee’s approved budget of $59,526,442, representing a 3.934% increase over FY23 (town appropriation increase of $2,252,907). The budget adds 4.2 FTE positions: two school psychologists, one PE/health teacher, and one LEA coordinator (resource teacher for IEPs) – all aimed at student mental health and social-emotional support. - Enrollment is projected to decrease by 41 students, with minimal staffing impact. Approximately 78.7% of the budget is salary and benefits; 97% is considered fixed costs. - Town Manager’s preliminary budget had proposed $180,566 less than the school committee’s approved amount. School Committee Chair Aaron Earl stated the reduction would force cuts elsewhere; the two additional psychologists are considered essential. - The two psychologists funded through ESSER (federal pandemic relief) are one-year positions; recruitment challenges for short-term roles were acknowledged. - Council members questioned class size ratios, teacher/TA vacancies (primarily TAs), teacher contract negotiations (current contract expires June 30, 2023), and the competitiveness of NK salaries. - Councilman Mandel noted large reductions in line items (e.g., technology software -$40K, hardware -$80K, textbooks -$165K, general supplies -$140K). Chief Operating Officer Michael Waterman explained these were reclassifications (e.g., moving from purchased supplies to contracted services) and not actual cuts. Police Department Budget - Chief presented a budget that includes funding for two new patrol officer positions (zero-based budgeting; currently two officers are on military leave, so salary line does not show a large increase). Retirements (4) occurred after budget drafting. - Vehicle replacement: The department proposes switching from Ford to Dodge Durangos (four vehicles) due to lower purchase price ($10K less per Ford) and better maintenance records. The lease program continues with annual appropriations. - Flock cameras (automatic license plate readers) requested for $17,100 for 6 cameras, to track vehicle descriptions. No facial recognition; data retained for a limited time. Council member Anderson asked about privacy concerns; Chief noted it would aid in criminal investigations, amber/silver alerts. - Other increases: school resource officer (+13.54% due to top-step pay), firearms (+25% for replacement of aging patrol rifles), personal equipment (+152% due to vest replacement cycle every 5 years), contract services (+169% for Flock cameras and 3D imaging Matterport). - Mental health clinician (from Providence Center) currently rides with officers part-time; she can be called in for emergency certifications, reducing wait times from 2-3 hours to 45 minutes. The department chose not to hire her full-time to prioritize patrol staffing, but she remains on call. - Council asked about grant opportunities for police equipment; Chief said limited grants are available and most are not applicable. Animal Control & Harbormaster - Animal Control: Contract services increase due to reliance on a local foundation (“Friends of…”); foundation fundraising has decreased. - Harbormaster: Request for a new pickup truck (lease, 4 years). Fuel line up 30% attributed to more boat usage with two part-time assistant harbormasters hired. Council member Mancini questioned the alignment of fuel increase with usage; staff will reexamine. Town Clerk, Board of Canvassers, Municipal Court - Town Clerk budget mostly statutory, small increase in health insurance. Board of Canvassers budget is down (off-election year) but includes funding for possible special election, presidential preference primary (2024), and a budget referendum. Poll worker training funded at $25 per worker. Municipal Court is an enterprise fund, self-sufficient from traffic ticket fees. Key Outcomes - The Town Council unanimously approved the preliminary FY2024 budget as presented by the Town Manager (which includes the original school department proposal of $59,345,856 and $11,557,376 state aid). However, after discussion, the council voted to adopt the school committee’s amended budget of $59,526,442 (town appropriation) and $11,557,376 state aid, increasing the total general fund appropriation. The votes were as follows: - General Fund budget: $39,370,562 – passed unanimously. - Debt Service Fund: $5,365,110 – passed unanimously. - Allen Harbor Enterprise Fund: $442,058 – passed unanimously. - Golf Course Enterprise Fund: $1,968,137 – passed unanimously. - Water Fund Enterprise: $5,784,736 – passed unanimously. - Municipal Court Enterprise: $198,921 – passed unanimously. - Sewer Enterprise: $2,568,684 – passed unanimously. - Transfer Fund: $1,354,673 – passed unanimously. - Library Fund: $1,697,267 – passed unanimously. - Town Appropriation to Schools (state aid): $11,557,376 – passed unanimously. - School Department appropriation (town share): $59,526,442 – passed unanimously. - Total all funds: $129,833,966 – passed unanimously. - The estimated residential tax rate increase is approximately 2.2%, which could be reduced to 2.1% based on improved assessment figures. Adding the school’s amended request would bring the increase to about 2.35%. - The next step: Public Hearing on April 19, 2023 (6:30 p.m. municipal, 7:00 p.m. school), followed by final budget adoption on April 24, 2023 (tentatively).

This was an all-day work session for the Town Council to review the Town Manager's Preliminary Budget for Fiscal Year 2023/2024. The session included budget presentations from department heads and discussion of key fiscal issues. The public hearing on the budget is scheduled for April 19, 2023, with final adoption planned for April 24. Discussion Items Town Manager's Overview & Preliminary Budget - Town Manager Ralph reported the preliminary budget calls for a 2.2% tax increase, but updated assessment figures suggest it could be reduced to 2.1 or 2.02%. - The school department initially requested a 3.62% increase ($2,072,341), later revised to 3.93% ($2,252,907). The manager noted that North Kingstown has historically provided annual average increases of 3.1% since 2017, significantly higher than neighboring communities, and that school surpluses are preferable to deficits. - He highlighted that many requested capital projects were cut, including restoration of Signal Rock and Yorktown Park ($500,000), but noted alternative funding sources may be pursued. Civic Contributions Policy - The council discussed the long-standing policy of freezing contributions to community groups. The Town Manager noted that most groups were held at prior-year levels, with one new request (Blue Bus Harbor Lights at $5,000). - Council members expressed interest in reviewing the policy for FY25, including a more transparent application process and criteria for funding. The manager will present applications to the council by end of summer. Other Post-Employment Benefits (OPEB) - Finance Director James explained that OPEB obligations are funded annually; the trust is about 15% funded, down from $32-36 million liability to roughly $20 million. The council requested a comparison with other municipalities. Enterprise Funds: Sewer & Water - Sewer: The sewer enterprise fund is facing a deficit over $1 million this year. Because the bond approved by voters prohibits taxpayer funding, user fees or hookup fees may need to increase. The manager noted potential capacity issues at the Quonset treatment plant and a pipeline capacity problem. - Water: The water department operates as an enterprise fund with an $8 million surplus, $4 million kept for emergencies and $5.5 million in an infrastructure replacement fund. The department secured $6.5 million in grants last year. Councilor Mandel urged more aggressive infrastructure upgrades. Fire Department Budget - Chief presented a detailed budget with a $675,000 overtime line (up from $600,000) citing the four-platoon system and long‑term leave. The town’s rescue billing generated between $840,000 and $1.2 million annually; $600,000 goes to the general fund, the remainder funds vehicle replacement. The chief warned of rising apparatus costs (engines from $450k to $760k, rescues from $200k to $380k). - The need for a third rescue unit was discussed; mutual aid is used almost daily (e.g., nine simultaneous calls on one day). The chief reiterated that engine staffing of two per truck is below NFPA standards but manageable with mutual aid. Recreation, Parks & Enterprise Funds - Recreation Director introduced a new fields division and highlighted improvements to ball fields, playgrounds, and signage. The golf course hosted the RI Open and saw 50,000 rounds played. Enterprise funds (golf, Allen Harbor) are self‑supporting. - Special projects include LED lighting at Ryan and McGinn Parks ($60,700 per year for two years), community center HVAC, and court resurfacing at Wilson and McGinn Parks (about $800,000 from ARPA). Library - Director Susan reported a complete interior renovation funded by a $303,625 Champlain Foundation grant and a bequest (no town funds). State aid is increasing 14% due to full funding. The library will migrate to new software and seek further grants. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the session was a workshop for council deliberation. - The council will review the School Department budget on Monday, March 20 at 6:00 PM. - The Town Manager will provide a comparison of OPEB liabilities to other municipalities and share a multi‑year debt schedule. - The council directed the Town Manager to prepare a review of community contributions policy for FY25, including application packets. - The preliminary budget is expected to be adopted on April 24 after a public hearing on April 19. - The council expressed support for a public safety complex bond and for continued capital improvements in parks and infrastructure.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on March 13, 2023, at 7:00 PM following an executive session. The meeting featured the presentation of the Town Manager's preliminary FY2024 budget, public comments on the budget and school mental health services, approval of a consent agenda, a town manager's report, reappointment to the Board of Canvassers, and a detailed discussion on replacing the whistleblower ordinance with a new policy. Consent Calendar - Items 7–15 were approved unanimously, including minutes, a donation, a fire department purchase, entertainment licenses, refuse collector licenses, and a bond reduction for Reynolds Farm Phase 1D. - Item 16 (bond reduction) was postponed to the next meeting due to a typo in the motion description. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane) expressed concern about the town and school department surpluses (approximately $20 million combined), arguing that excess funds should be used to lower taxes rather than spent without public vetting. He criticized recent school spending on teacher contracts without performance metrics. - Richard Thompson (194 Plain Road) requested that the taxpayer surplus be used to offset any tax increase, noting the town's fund balance exceeds the 10% target. Town Manager Ralph Mollis clarified that the unassigned surplus is $12 million (10% of the $117 million budget), and that the budget uses surplus for one-time initiatives to reduce the tax increase, not for operations. He explained the cumulative surplus growth over six budgets and offered to provide further detail. - Allison Hall (31 Hideaway Lane) spoke in favor of the proposed school budget increase for mental health services, citing rising depression, anxiety, and suicide risk among students, and the need to retain providers and reduce burnout. - Mary Leprestify (29 Chestnut Road) read a statement from her daughter, a high school senior, describing the lack of mental health support and the need for proactive, accessible services. She urged funding for school psychologist positions. - Another parent (191 Camp Avenue) supported the school budget for mental health services, noting her children's future in the district and her professional experience with children's mental health. Discussion Items - Presentation of FY2024 Preliminary Budget: Town Manager Ralph Mollis presented the budget, which calls for a 2.2% tax rate increase (residential rate $14.37, commercial $16.31, tangible $17.89). The $2.4 million increase (65% of the total increase) is allocated to the school department. The budget funds initiatives such as the 350th anniversary celebration, park renovations, road paving, two additional police officers, and capital improvements. The budget uses surplus for one-time projects to minimize taxpayer impact. The next steps include budget sessions on March 16 and 20, and a public hearing on April 19. - Town Manager's Report: Mollis announced the town received the GFOA award for its popular annual financial report, marking a