Public Meetings - North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Town Hall, 80 Boston Neck Road. The commission approved a reduced surety release for Reynolds Farm Phase 1D, discussed the path for cannabis zoning amendments, adopted a minutes-review policy, approved the February 7, 2023 draft minutes, and reviewed a Quonset Development Corporation major variance request for workforce housing. Chair James Grundy recused himself for the Quonset item. Surety Reduction - Reynolds Farm Phase 1D (90%) - Staff outlined a 90% surety reduction of $1,225,072.16, leaving a 10% surety of $136,624. - A dispute was noted over five street lights shown on the approved plan but not installed. Eight street lights had been installed, and the National Grid to Rhode Island Energy utility transition left responsibility unclear because the lights were not treated as town assets. - The commission discussed a $50,000 holdback to cover the uninstalled street lights. The final recommendation was a reduction of $1,177,028.16, with total surety retained of $189,114.24. - Staff were authorized to resolve the street-light issue if possible; unresolved issues would return to the commission. The one-year release clock for the remaining surety can begin now. - Motion passed 5-0. Cannabis Control Act Zoning Amendments - Continued from February 7, 2023. The commission did not draft an ordinance. Instead, staff will prepare amendments related to Rhode Island's Cannabis Control Act and transmit them to the Town Council. - Under the procedure, the council will refer the proposal to the Planning Commission for study and recommendation, but the commission may waive that review. Members voiced no objection to waiving their recommendation. The matter is expected to return at the March 7, 2023 meeting. Quonset Development Corporation Major Variance Request - Quonset Development Corporation is seeking a major variance under Section 4.2.2B of the Quonset Development Package for proposed workforce housing on Assessor's Plat 182, Lots 9, 17, and 17 (as listed in the agenda), in the Quonset Business Park (QBP) and Quonset Mixed Use Development District (QMUDD). The land use is not currently allowed in the district. - Staff said it was the first major variance application to reach the commission since the 2010 memorandum of understanding. QDC has not provided a specific plan; it intends to issue an RFI. - Commission members raised concerns including: the request was too vague and could act as a "blank check"; density, heights, and unit counts should be set before approval; competition with Post Road housing developers; whether units would count toward North Kingstown's 10% affordable housing requirement; whether "workforce housing" would be genuinely affordable; and whether units would be restricted to Quonset employees. - Members also called for a public hearing, review by public safety and school departments, fiscal impact analysis, and design safeguards such as sidewalks, pedestrian access, street trees, and buffering from industrial uses. - Staff will draft a response to QDC reserving the commission's recommendation and listing these concerns; the draft will return for commission review at the next meeting. The commission also asked QDC to provide more information and meet with staff before further action. Policy on Minutes Review - The commission adopted a new policy requiring members to submit proposed minutes corrections to staff by noon Monday before the Tuesday meeting. Nonsubstantive corrections are incorporated by staff; substantive changes are highlighted for board review. The policy passed 5-0. Minutes - The commission approved the February 7, 2023 draft minutes. Although the agenda listed "January 7, 2023" minutes, discussion addressed the February 7 draft; no substantive corrections were raised. The motion passed 5-0. Key Outcomes - Approved the Reynolds Farm Phase 1D surety recommendation: $1,177,028.16 reduction and $189,114.24 surety retained (5-0). - Agreed to allow staff to handle the street-light resolution; unresolved concerns would return to the commission. - Agreed to proceed with a staff-drafted cannabis zoning ordinance and to waive the Planning Commission recommendation. - Directed staff to prepare a written response to QDC with concerns and requests for more information. - Adopted the minutes-review policy (5-0). - Approved the February 7, 2023 minutes (5-0).

The Planning Commission of North Kingstown met on Tuesday, February 7, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Town Hall to discuss and act on several agenda items, including a master plan for an affordable housing project, proposed zoning amendments related to cannabis, and potential changes to private road regulations. The meeting was chaired by James Grundy. Master Plan Informational Hearing - Moran Properties LLC - The Commission held a public informational hearing on the application of Moran Properties LLC for a comprehensive permit major land development project for low and moderate income housing, comprising 56 apartment units proposed off Devil's Foot Road (Assessor's Plat 181, Lots 13 & 28; Plat 147, Lot 37). - A master plan decision was presented to the Commission, including three conditions: (1) merger of the three legal lots into one lot; (2) submission of a sample lease or deed restriction with affordability liens and a financial pro forma with the preliminary plan; (3) after the appeals period for final approval expires without any appeals, the applicant shall submit a letter withdrawing the master plan decision for Assessor's Plat 181, Lots 13 and 14, recorded on July 30, 2020. - Commissioner Roach questioned why the voiding of the prior approval was tied to final plan approval rather than master plan recording, noting a prior project (Pinewood) used the master plan recording as the trigger. The chair indicated the approach was intended to protect the applicant in case the new plan is overturned on appeal. - The Commission voted 6-0 to approve the master plan decision as written. Discussion & Recommendation: Zoning Amendments Related to the RI Cannabis Control Act - The Commission discussed proposed amendments to the North Kingstown Zoning Ordinance to align with the state's Cannabis Control Act. - Commissioner Grundy expressed concerns about federal illegality of marijuana and potential liability, stating he did not wish to participate in drafting regulations until federal law is changed. He noted that state law is in direct violation of federal law and that he does not believe the commission should pick and choose which laws to follow. - Town Solicitor responded that there is no liability for local officials, federal enforcement is not occurring, and failure to regulate could expose the community to unwanted locations. He noted that 37 states have legalized medical or recreational marijuana. - Two commissioners (Grundy and another) recused themselves on this item due to moral and legal objections, leaving only three members for a possible quorum. - The item was continued to the next meeting (February 21, 2023) to allow time for further consideration and to determine how to proceed if a quorum is not available. Discussion: Potential Amendments to Subdivision & Land Development Regulations - Private Roads - Commissioner Eric Wishart presented a discussion on private roads, noting issues with homeowners associations dissolving and roads deteriorating, leading to requests for the town to accept them as public roads (which often fails due to substandard construction). - Members discussed options: requiring private roads to be built to public road standards (especially road base layers) while allowing limited waivers for items like width or street trees to preserve existing vegetation; and attaching deed restrictions or liens to ensure future upgrades if the town ever takes over the road. - Commissioner Kerr emphasized that the road base composition should be non-waivable, while width and trees could be waived in special circumstances. - No formal action was taken; the Commission agreed to work with staff to develop draft ordinance or policy changes for future consideration. Approval of Minutes - December 6, 2022 Minutes: Approved as amended. Multiple corrections were made to wording and grammar (e.g., changing "a lot of avoidable housing" to "little to no available housing", correcting ".csv" to ".txt"). - December 20, 2022 Minutes: Approved as amended after noting that the minutes were extremely detailed but needed minor editing for clarity and accuracy (e.g., identifying motion makers). - January 17, 2023 Minutes: Approved as amended with a correction to "comprehensive future land use map" and a strikeout of "appointing of a bit". Key Outcomes - Moran Properties Master Plan: Approved unanimously (6-0) with three conditions. - Cannabis Zoning Amendments: Continued to February 21, 2023 due to recusals and lack of quorum. - Private Roads Regulations: Deferred for further development by staff; no vote taken. - Minutes: All three sets approved with amendments.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, February 6, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting covered a public hearing for a liquor license, presentations on the annual audit and capital improvement plan, consent agenda items, reports from the town manager, and several new business items including proclamations and committee appointments. Key decisions included approval of a full alcoholic beverage license for Quonset Tavern, receipt and filing of the FY2022 audit, approval of a five-year contract for automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and adoption of a proclamation declaring April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month. Public Hearing - Class B-Full Alcoholic Beverage License – Quonset Tavern by the Green Inc. – The council opened and closed the public hearing with no one signed up to speak. A motion to approve the license passed unanimously, welcoming the new business to the town. Public Comments & Testimony - Jim McGuinness (412 Chimney Rock Road) presented two items for consideration: (1) a request for the council to support a state bill that would make non-reporting of known or suspected child abuse a felony for mandated reporters, and (2) a suggestion to celebrate Black History Month by honoring Mel Benson, the first Black representative in the Rhode Island State House and a former North Kingstown teacher. He provided documents to the council. - Councilor Katherine Anderson responded to a piece of correspondence received by the council that espoused white supremacist ideology. She publicly condemned white supremacy in all forms, stating that the council will not tolerate such views. Discussion Items - Presentation by Marcum LLP – Annual Audit Report for FY2022 – Kyle Connors, director at Marcum, presented the audited financial statements. The audit opinion was clean, with no material misstatements. Key points: - General fund balance increased by $1.5 million, with unassigned fund balance of $12.1 million (13.5% of operating budget). - Revenues exceeded budget by $1.5 million, including property taxes $378,000 above budget (98.6% collection rate). - Expenditures were $1.1 million under budget. - School department fund balance of $6.9 million (9.5% of operating budget), but $1.2 million earmarked for stipends. - School lunch fund had a $2.1 million net position, which the auditor recommended reducing to avoid exceeding USDA limits. - Water department operating income of $1.3 million; sewer department had a net position deficit of $126,000. - Pension plans are state-funded and showed improved funding ratios, but the OPEB plan is only 11% funded with a $18.1 million liability. - Recommendations included improving month-end reconciliations for sewer assessments, annual cybersecurity training, and vulnerability testing. - Councilors discussed the sewer department’s operating income drop and the school lunch fund surplus. The town manager noted that the sewer deficit is being addressed through appeals and future tie-ins. - Presentation by the Asset Management Commission – Capital Improvement Program FY2024–FY2028 – Chair Edward Cooney presented the commission’s recommendations. Three major projects were highlighted: - New School Buildings: The Rhode Island School Building Authority offers a 52.5% reimbursement rate for new middle school and elementary school projects, but the town must be under contract by December 31, 2023, and complete by December 31, 2028. Estimated cost: $80 million each for a middle school and an elementary school; at the enhanced rate, the town’s share would be $38 million per school, or $104 million if the rate drops to 35%. - Public Safety Headquarters: The top priority (ranked 1). Original budget $40–45 million, but a scaled-down version of $21.5–$31.5 million is proposed. The current facility is in poor condition with water damage, cramped spaces, and inadequate equipment capacity. - Recreation Center: Proposed 50,000 sq ft first phase ($25 million) plus $15 million for phase two (turf fields). The commission did not rank this as a top priority. - Other priorities: water main condition assessment, fire door replacements at library, continued road maintenance, senior center HVAC, and school fire alarm systems. - The commission recommended creating a grant writer position, establishing an asset protection fund, and improving town-school collaboration. - Councilors discussed the urgency of the school projects due to the reimbursement deadline and the need for the public safety facility. The commission noted that a single bond question might be more effective than multiple questions. Consent Calendar - Items 8–17 were on the consent agenda. Councilor Page requested removal of Item 8 (minutes) and Councilor Mandel requested removal of Item 12 (AED contract). The remaining items (9–11, 13–17) were approved unanimously. - Item 8 – Approval of Minutes (January 9, 2023) – Councilor Page abstained due to absence. The motion to continue the item to the next meeting passed with a possible amendment noted. - Item 12 – Award of Five-Year Contract for AEDs to Avive Solutions, Inc. ($89,509.53) – Councilor Mandel asked about the number of units (60), placement, and vandalism prevention. Assistant Fire Chief John Lenickry explained that the devices are placed in strategic locations based on cardiac arrest data, are trackable via GPS, and use alarmed cabinets. The contract was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Public Hearing: Approved Class B-Full Alcoholic Beverage License for Quonset Tavern by the Green Inc. (unanimous). - Audit Report: Motion to receive and file the FY2022 Annual Audit Report passed unanimously. - Capital Improvement Plan: Motion to receive and file the CIP FY2024–FY2028 report passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda Items: Approved Items 9–11, 13–17 (unanimous). Item 8 continued to next meeting. Item 12 (AED contract) approved unanimously. - Item 19 – Amendments to Town Council Meeting Schedule: Approved to change the April 3 regular meeting to March 27, and the budget hearing from April 17 to April 19. - Item 20 – Veterans Memorial Scholarship Fund Committee: Approved increasing membership from three to five and appointed Councilor McCoy as the council representative and Brett Mallory as the citizen representative (unanimous). - Item 21 – Sexual Assault Awareness Month Proclamation: Approved declaring April 2023 as Sexual Assault Awareness Month in North Kingstown (unanimous). Council President Mancini and Councilor Anderson offered apologies for previous hesitation on such proclamations. - Item 22 – South Gould Island Public Recreation Plan Resolution: Approved a resolution supporting Jamestown’s request to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) to designate South Gould Island for public recreation. The town manager will serve as the point of contact. - Item 23 – Report on Town Council Office Hours Initiative: Councilor Mandel reported that over five weeks in January, 13 parties attended office hours. He proposed continuing on a monthly basis with both daytime and evening virtual options. The council agreed to let Mandel coordinate the schedule. - Item 24 – Discussion on Communication with Residents: Councilors discussed ways to improve outreach, including appointing council liaisons to town committees, holding town forums, and using informal channels. The town manager will re-survey committees to determine interest in a liaison. - Item 25 – Correspondence: Read and acknowledged. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, January 23, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting included discussion of legislative priorities with the state delegation, receipt of a historical painting donation, a presentation on renovating the municipal office building, public hearings on liquor license renewals, approval of consent agenda items, and a detailed discussion on the whistleblower ordinance. Public Comments & Testimony - George Brennan congratulated the planning department for involving 17 businesses in a decoration program on Post Road and supported the appointment of Suzanne Mancini to the Wickford Advisory Committee, citing her professionalism and community dedication. - Dick Welch criticized the School Committee's handling of the superintendent's resignation, calling it an embarrassment and urging the Town Council to become more active in school matters. - Rob Mallory (731 Anarquetucket Road) raised concerns about sidewalks and speeding on Anarquetucket Road, requesting increased police presence or traffic calming measures for school safety. - Mike Donneyu (Historic Wickford Incorporated) presented a donation of five framed original paintings and prints representing the historic marker project, which aims to celebrate local history. Discussion Items - Legislative Priorities: The council discussed priorities with state delegation members Senator DeMario, Representative Casimiro, and Senator Valverde (absent due to family commitment). Key topics included: increasing state aid for education (noting a $44,000 decrease), supporting social worker/student ratios, improving mental health funding, universal pre-K, free lunch, and addressing the Route 4 traffic light problem. The harbor master presented a proposed amendment to RIGL 46-4-6.4 to regulate all houseboats (self-propelled or not). The council also discussed charter amendment ratification. The delegation committed to working on these issues. - Municipal Office Building Renovation: Town Manager Ralph Mollis presented a $2-2.5 million renovation plan for 100 Fairway Drive, funded 50% from ARPA funds and 50% from fund balance/capital funds to avoid bonding. The renovation includes new entrance, lobby, windows, siding, HVAC upgrades, and a small addition. After discussion, the council gave consensus to move forward with an RFQ/RFP process, with final approval required later. - Annex/Old Library Update: The town manager reported that the buyer of 55 Brown Street (Eve Clulo) faces increased project costs ($5.2 million) and will not meet the September 2023 deadline for certificate of occupancy. The council discussed extending the deadline contingent on the buyer obtaining financing commitments, or repurchasing the property. They agreed to invite Ms. Clulo to a February meeting and to seek financial assurances before considering an extension. - Whistleblower Ordinance: The audit committee recommended rescinding the current whistleblower ordinance, citing its ineffectiveness. Public comment (Sarah Lee Norton) argued for a more visible and accessible system, not elimination. The council agreed that the ordinance needs revision, not removal, and tabled the item to allow the town manager and legal counsel to develop a more transparent and effective alternative, including clear reporting channels. - National Gun Violence Survivors Week Proclamation: Approved unanimously, with council members expressing personal connections to gun violence and supporting recognition of survivors. Consent Calendar - Approved items 11, 12, 14, 15, and 16 as routine (donations, resignation acceptance, license renewal, charter amendment request). Item 10 (cemetery fund grant) was removed and approved separately. Item 13 (emergency water heater replacement) was approved after clarification on warranty. Item 17 (houseboat legislation request) was tabled pending further discussion. Key Outcomes - Legislative priorities: Delegation will advance bills on school funding, social workers, and houseboat enabling legislation. Town will support with testimony if needed. - Municipal office renovation: Council consensus to proceed with design and bidding; no bonding required. Next step: issue RFQ/RFP, return for award approval. - Annex/Old Library: Invitation extended to buyer to appear at February meeting; council will seek proof of financing before considering deadline extension. - Whistleblower ordinance: Tabled; town manager directed to work with legal counsel to propose revised ordinance with improved visibility and multiple reporting channels, including for complaints against town manager/superintendent. - Appointments: David Feeney appointed to Groundwater Committee (through July 1, 2024); Suzanne Mancini appointed to Wickford Advisory Committee (through October 1, 2023), with Council President Mancini recused. - CRMC application: No substantive objection to William J. Sabo's dock project at 497 Shore Acres Avenue. - Proclamation: National Gun Violence Survivors Week proclaimed. - Budget update: Finance Director reported projected $1.2 million surplus for FY2023 (before fund balance use), with strong interest income and controlled expenses. - Web launch: New town website (northkingstownri.gov) launched. - Next meeting: February 6, 2023 (budget presentation; asset management priorities review).

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, January 17, 2023, at 7:00 PM at Town Hall. The commission voted unanimously on two development plan decisions and held a public informational hearing on a comprehensive permit master plan for a 56-unit affordable housing project. Public Comments - Mr. Welch (8 Arrow Lane, North Kingstown) spoke in favor of the Moran Properties project, stating that the development would create taxable property from a previously untaxed state-owned parcel, provide workforce housing near Quonset, and support local retail. He commended the developer's track record of property maintenance. Discussion Items Pinewood Village Preliminary Plan – The commission reviewed a 13-page decision for an 88-unit apartment project at 50 South County Trail (Plat 102, Lots 6, 8, & 25). Minor corrections were made, including changing “master plan” to “preliminary” and a typo fix. The motion to approve as amended passed 6-0. Gooseneck Vineyards Development Plan Review – The commission approved a 5,400 square foot farm winery at 1340 & 1376 Tower Hill Road (Plat 7, Lots 13, 22, & 23). A condition was added requiring a stormwater mitigation plan to be submitted and approved prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy, due to uncertainty about whether gravel access ways are considered impervious by DEM. The motion passed 6-0. Moran Properties Master Plan Public Informational Hearing – A comprehensive permit for 56 one-bedroom apartments (14 affordable units) on Devil's Foot Road (Plat 181, Lots 13 & 28; Plat 147, Lot 37). The site includes a previously unzoned state-owned parcel (Lot 28). The applicant seeks waivers for: density (16.1 units/acre vs. 10 allowed), ground-floor residential use, building setback (20 feet from Kingstown Crossing vs. 38 feet required), and relief from the comprehensive plan and zoning designation requirements for the unzoned lot. The commission reached a positive consensus (6-0) to prepare a decision for a future vote, with an extension to March 22, 2023. Staff recommended conditions including lot merger, withdrawal of a prior approval on a portion of the site, and addressing waivers. Key Outcomes - Approved Pinewood Village preliminary plan (6-0). - Approved Gooseneck Vineyards development plan (6-0). - Positive consensus on Moran Properties master plan; staff to draft decision with final vote scheduled for February 21, 2023, and an extension to March 22, 2023. - Conditions for Moran include: merger of three lots, withdrawal of prior master plan approval, and resolution of waivers. - The commission also discussed the need for procedural training and agreed to explore options with staff.

The North Kingstown Town Council met Monday, Jan. 9, 2023, in Town Hall Council Chambers at 80 Boston Neck Road. After an executive session, the council voted to seal the executive session minutes and convened the regular meeting. The council held public hearings, approved a substantial consent agenda, heard from one public commenter, received the town manager's report, made appointments, authorized a golf course restaurant concession agreement, and discussed short-term rental regulation and recreational marijuana next steps. Public Hearings - Wickford Oyster Bar license renewal (Item 5): No one signed up to testify on the Class B-Full alcoholic beverage license and victualling license renewal for Wickford Diner LLC, dba Wickford Oyster Bar, 95 Brown Street. Council President Gregory Mancini said a constituent had raised a question about the licensee's operating hours; the applicant was not present. The council voted to continue the matter to Jan. 23, 2023, withdrawing the earlier motion to close the hearing so a new public hearing can be held. - Beach parking permit fees (Item 6): After a second-reading public hearing with no testimony, the council approved the amendment to Section 9-4, Recreation Department fee schedule for beach parking permits. Planning staff confirmed replacement parking stickers would cost the same as original stickers, and council members supported that approach to prevent misuse. - No parking/limited parking on Newcomb Road (Item 7): After a second-reading public hearing with no testimony, the council approved the amendment to Section 11-37 for no parking or limited parking on Newcomb Road. Public Comments & Testimony - Brett Mallory, a North Kingstown resident, urged the council to stand up the Wickford Veterans Committee listed on the town website. He said one committee seat remained open, a current member had served five years without clear responsibilities, and the principal member was leaving at the end of the school year. He noted he had submitted a resume in July and had not received traction. The town clerk indicated the committee would be re-advertised, with appointments planned at the second February meeting. Consent Calendar - The council approved items 9–12 and 14–20 in one motion: minutes of Dec. 19, 2022; Tax Abatement List 866 totaling $488.65; a $525 donation; a $150 donation for the North Kingstown Animal Shelter; award of the Water Department Well 10 Pump Station Modifications Phase 1 bid to Martone Service Company, Inc. for $345,677; golf course sweeper purchase from A-OK Turf Equipment, Inc. for $48,000; 2016 Kubota L5060 tractor purchase from A-OK Turf Equipment, Inc. for $29,900; Friends of Beechwood Spring Bazaar exhibition license renewal for April 21–22, 2023; detective license renewal for Martin Hyman; Planet Fitness holiday sales license change of location from 40 Frenchtown Road to 56 Frenchtown Road; and victualling license renewals. - Item 13 — Loring painting/print donation: Councilman Lawrence Mandel removed this item for discussion. Town Manager Ralph Mollis said the print was donated by the daughter of former council member Robin Porter and would be displayed at Town Hall; the council approved the donation. Town Manager's Report - Ralph Mollis reported that the town had been granted an extension to Jan. 16, 2023, to file the fiscal year 2022 audit. - The 2022 Winter Wonderland decoration grant program had 17 participating businesses and was projected to award over $11,200 in grants. - Weight restriction signs on the Hussey and Brown Street bridges were removed after RIDOT reanalyzed the bridge ratings following repairs and determined the restrictions were no longer needed. - The town would participate in a Rhode Island League housing workshop with the Housing Secretary and would attend the governor's State of the State address. - The land conservancy's 355-acre open space easement on the Cruikshank property was approved; the town will pursue purchasing the property with DEM funds. - A federal earmark announcement for the Post Road/West Main Street Sidewalk Project was scheduled for Thursday at 10 a.m. in the plaza at 7726 Post Road, with Senator Jack Reed and DOT Director Peter Alviti expected. - The finance department and a local bank intercepted a $202,000 check fraud scam and recovered the full amount; the North Kingstown Police Department is involved, and the town is changing how large vendor checks are processed. Appointments - Asset Management Commission (Item 22): The council appointed Lisa Bowe, recommended by the School Committee, to fill the unexpired term of James Grundy through July 1, 2023. - Economic Development Advisory Board (Item 23): The council approved appointments to the Economic Development Advisory Board. The agenda lists one full member, one first alternate, and one second alternate, while the transcript references two vacancies, making the exact allocation unclear; Betsy de Leiris and Kenneth Spicer were both appointed. Councilmember Katherine Anderson praised the candidates and noted housing is a defining issue for the community. Golf Course Restaurant Concession Agreement (Item 24) - The council authorized the Town Manager to execute a concession agreement for the North Kingstown Municipal Golf Course restaurant. Town Manager Mollis said the current restaurateur was leaving after five years, an open RFQ process was held, and a five-member committee negotiated with Charlene Hopkins of Runway 41 Bar & Grill in Warwick. The council approved the agreement, and Hopkins will return for the liquor license on Feb. 6. Short-Term Rental Discussion (Item 25) - Planning staff presented options for regulating short-term rentals, noting Rhode Island defines them as dwellings or accessory buildings rented for fewer than 30 consecutive days. DBR registration began in January 2023, and North Kingstown had 54 registered short-term rental units. Staff said the state DBR registry has a $50 fee for a two-year registration. - By comparison, Narragansett had about 499 registered units with DBR and is working on an ordinance with a seven-day minimum stay; South Kingstown had 252 registered units; Jamestown had 87 registered units and adopted an ordinance in August 2022 with inspections, seven-day minimum stays, and fees of $250 for resident-owned units and $700 per unit for others; East Greenwich had 7 registered units and no local restrictions. - A third-party data review cited by staff showed 86 short-term rental offerings in North Kingstown, about 92 nights booked, roughly $360 per night, and average income of about $21,000. Staff outlined options ranging from no local action, a municipal registry, zoning amendments with occupancy requirements or special use permits, to prohibition. Existing short-term rentals could be grandfathered under zoning changes. - Staff said they leaned toward a municipal registry, but council direction was needed before drafting ordinances. Council members requested additional research on fee structures, staffing and inspection implications, police complaint correlations, peer community experiences, potential economic impacts, and houseboat issues. No formal motion was made on this item. Recreational Marijuana Discussion (Item 26) - Planning staff outlined next steps after North Kingstown voters approved allowing recreational cannabis licenses. The new state Cannabis Control Commission will issue licenses; the zone including North Kingstown, Warwick, and Cranston has four available licenses, with East Greenwich having banned recreational marijuana. One license must go to a workers' cooperative and one to a social equity applicant. - Staff said the town will need to address both public use ordinances and zoning and land use rules for retail locations. Council members discussed tax revenue, edible cannabis safety, odor and public nuisance concerns, and the need to proceed thoughtfully and expeditiously so North Kingstown does not miss out on licenses or revenue. No vote was taken. Correspondence (Item 27) - Councilman Matthew McCoy reported correspondence since Dec. 19, 2022: emails from Diane Izzo, Zachary Mongu about Route 4 traffic lights, James Rum about naloxone equipment for police and fire, Audrey Rodriguez about planning commission decisions on the Pinewood development, and an invitation from Larry Veria to North Kingstown High School's Dialogues and Democracy event on Jan. 19 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Councilman Mandel held office hours Jan. 3 from 10 to 11 a.m. and spoke with three people. Routine correspondence was received from the Narrow River Preservation Association, North Kingstown Chamber of Commerce, South County Tourism Council, and Wickford Art Association. Key Outcomes - Continued the Wickford Oyster Bar license renewal to Jan. 23, 2023. - Approved the beach parking permit fee schedule and the Newcomb Road no-parking/limited-parking amendments. - Approved the consent agenda items, with item 13 approved separately. - Appointed Lisa Bowe to the Asset Management Commission and approved Economic Development Advisory Board appointments. - Authorized the Town Manager to execute the golf course restaurant concession agreement. - Directed planning staff to continue researching short-term rental regulation and return with more detailed options. - Took no vote on marijuana policy but set expectations for separate public-use and zoning ordinances to come before the council.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 7:00 PM in Town Hall. The agenda was reordered to address two routine items first, then a public hearing on the Pinewood Village comprehensive permit major land development. The commission approved two routine items unanimously and voted to continue the Pinewood Village hearing to January 17, 2023, to allow additional time for deliberation and final conditions. Consent Calendar - Development Plan Review Waiver (Ivy Physical Therapy): The commission unanimously (6-0) approved a waiver of development plan review for a tenant fit-out at 20 Frenchtown Road. The applicant is not altering the site beyond adding a sign; the space is 2,400 sq. ft. in a 150,000 sq. ft. building. - Recommendation to Zoning Board (Palmer Beebe): The commission unanimously (6-0) sent a positive recommendation to the Zoning Board of Review for dimensional variances to accommodate an exterior compressor unit at 26 Brown Street. The variances are for setbacks in the Wickford Village Center district, adjacent to residential. The compressor will not exceed the existing nonconformity. - Approval of November 15, 2022 Minutes: The minutes were approved as amended (5-0-1, with one abstention) after minor corrections. Public Comments & Testimony - Ricky Thompson (194 Plain Road) spoke in favor of the Pinewood Village project, citing the developer’s responsiveness to neighbor concerns, including an eight-foot berm and additional buffering along Plain Road. He noted the developer’s efforts to eliminate the possibility of a big-box commercial operation on the site. - Andrew Jones (102 Plain Road) opposed the project, arguing it is too dense for the location (88 units vs. original 17-bedroom zoning), poses groundwater contamination risks with an experimental septic system, and creates traffic and safety issues. He questioned the developer’s use of 13 exceptions and urged the commission to reject the plan. - Tom Gothier (1690 Ten Rod Road) expressed concern about repeated zoning changes in the area, the impact on groundwater, and the potential for the project to harm the rural character. He asked the commission to consider the neighbors’ perspective. - Mike Rosendale (42 Laurel Ridge Lane) highlighted the 900% increase in bedrooms (from 16.8 to 176) and urged the commission to wait for the impact of the Rolling Greens development before approving Pinewood Village. - Eric Smith (116 Plain Road) opposed the project, stating it does not fit the rural atmosphere of the intersection and called it “shoehorning” units. - Dylan Krawczyk (HOA board member) raised concerns about the experimental septic system, increased traffic, school bus safety, and the potential for more children than projected. He noted that two-bedroom apartments can house multiple children and that North Kingstown’s schools are already seeing growth. Discussion Items - Pinewood Village Preliminary Plan Public Hearing (Continued): The applicant, Pinewood Village LLC, proposes 88 apartment units (66 market-rate, 22 affordable) on 9.6 acres at 50 South County Trail, zoned Compact Village Development (CVD) and in the Groundwater Protection Overlay District. The plan is nearly identical to the master plan approved in December 2021. Key discussion points: - Septic System: The proposed on-site wastewater treatment system is an experimental membrane bioreactor (MBR) technology awaiting RIDEM certification. The town engineer noted that the original master plan approval relied on a class two certified system, but the applicant now seeks an experimental system. The applicant’s engineer, Eric Prevy, stated the system is scalable and has backup options (e.g., chemical feeds, larger tanks). The commission discussed reporting frequency and duration, with a consensus to require monthly monitoring reports to the town for at least four years or until the system is removed from the experimental list, whichever comes first. - Traffic and Safety: The traffic study was reviewed at master plan; signal timing modifications at Route 2/102 were approved by RIDOT. The applicant’s request for a pedestrian crossing at that intersection was declined by RIDOT, who recommended the town pursue it separately. The commission agreed to condition a safe school bus stop with shelter if required by the school department. - Landscaping and Buffering: The landscape architect, John Carter, proposed an eight-foot berm along Plain Road with additional evergreen plantings. The tree warden’s comments were addressed, with the commission preferring deer-resistant species and an evergreen buffer at least 20 feet from Route 2 pavement. - Waivers: The applicant requested several waivers from subdivision regulations (e.g., street radii, horizontal curves), all of which were previously granted at master plan and unchanged. The commission noted they would be re-approved at preliminary. Key Outcomes - Ivy Physical Therapy Waiver: Approved 6-0. - Palmer Beebe Recommendation: Approved 6-0. - November 15, 2022 Minutes: Approved 5-0-1. - Pinewood Village Public Hearing: Continued to January 17, 2023, at 7:00 PM. The commission will deliberate on findings and conditions. The applicant granted an additional 30 days for the final decision. The commission reached a consensus on several conditions, including: monthly monitoring reports to the town for at least four years or until the system is no longer experimental; preparation of a cost estimate; final plan submission to include tree warden-approved species, school bus stop location, and dumpster shielding; and a requirement that the final plan return to the commission for approval.

On December 19, 2022, the North Kingstown Town Council reconvened after technical difficulties, approved routine and donation consent items, received a wide-ranging town manager project update, approved alcohol license limits and CRMC applications, made numerous appointments, and established trial weekly office hours. The council noted that the school portion of the meeting was recorded and would be posted the next morning. Consent Calendar - Items 6, 7, and 10 through 22 were approved by one motion as routine. - Items 8 and 9 were considered separately: donations totaling $8,555 were accepted with gratitude, including $3,500 from Dave’s Market Charitable Trust, $1,125 from First Baptist Church, $765 from Narragansett Bow Hunters Association, $500 from Michael and Carol Aninsky, $125 from Jacqueline Leblanc, $1,000 each from Laura Evans and Jill Moford for the Beechwood Senior Center, $35 from Suzanne Cole, and $25 from an anonymous donor. - Animal shelter donations totaling $204 were accepted: $100 from Cena Clark, $74 from Patricia and Thomas Scott, and $30 from Michael Frappier and Kathleen Hawes. Town Manager’s Project Updates - Retail marijuana: Following the passage of the referendum, a report on next steps—including an ordinance on locations, requirements, restrictions, and licensing—will be presented at the February 6, 2023 council meeting. - January 9, 2023: report and proposed action steps on short-term rentals, plus request to approve a contract for a new restaurant at the municipal golf course. - January 23, 2023: proposals for a new recreation center and renovation of the municipal office building at 100 Fairway Drive. - FY2024 budget will be presented on March 13, 2023; council deliberations with department heads will follow, with a public hearing on April 17, 2023. - The renovated North Kingstown Town Hall received a 2022 AIA Rhode Island Design Award for architecture of rehabilitation; credit was given to DBVW Architects, town staff, public works, Tower Construction, subcontractors, and others. - RIDOT will begin reconstruction of the Davisville Railroad Bridge, including demolition/replacement, sidewalks, barriers, protective screen, utility work, pavement, and detours; completion anticipated May 2024. - Boston Neck Road repaving from Wickford south will begin March 2023, including ADA ramps and a traffic signal at Hamilton Elementary; work will alternate with Route 2/138 South and finish by summer/early fall. - Town manager will attend the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns Housing Workshop with Housing Secretary Saul on January 18, 2023, to discuss state-local housing efforts and protecting local zoning/planning rights. - A resident’s complaint about an unsafe wall/water over the wall in the village led to historically appropriate fencing installed by public works in coordination with the Historic District Commission. - Water Director Tim Cranston’s presentation to the RI Water Resources Board was praised, and the town’s five-year water plan update was approved through November 17, 2027. - Open space: The town is working with the Land Conservancy and owners to acquire a 355-acre conservation easement off Tower Hill Road; approximately 60% is wooded swamp. The wetland reserve easement program would pay up to 90% of appraised value, and DEM is being sought for the remaining 10%. The property is connected to adjacent open space, creating about 700 acres of contiguous protected land. A council member stated this was a high priority and that the council would be willing to use reasonable town funds if needed. - The town website refresh and new .gov address are scheduled to launch January 23, 2023. Alcoholic Beverage License Limits - The council approved the 2022-2023 alcoholic beverage license limits: Class A, 4; Class B full, 28; Class B limited beer/wine, 10; Class C, 2; Class D full club, 1. The council noted it can increase limits upon request and expects possible license requests for new buildings at the gateway. CRMC Applications - The council found no substantive objection to application 2000-05-97 for Andrew and Megan Felix to construct and maintain a 38-foot section/replacement of an existing boat ramp/dock; the conservation commission and harbor management commission had unanimously approved it. - The council also found no substantive objection to application 2022-11-064 for the same applicants in the same general area. Appointments, Reappointments, and Deferrals - Arts Council vacancy: no applicants; will be re-advertised. - Assessment Board: Stephen Borowick reappointed. - Charter Review Commission: reappointed John Gibbons, Anthony McCollis, James Halley, Sarah Lee Norton, and Randy Wheatman; council noted Gibbons’ service since 2006 and special expertise. - Conservation Commission: Mary Kelly Phil appointed to Meg Kerr’s unexpired term; Stacey Weinstein appointed to a term ending 2025. - Economic Development Advisory Board: James Halley’s appointment was deferred to January 9, 2023, to allow another interested person to apply. - Groundwater Committee: James Halley’s appointment was continued to January 9, 2023. - A reappointment for Mr. Gentile was approved; item 34 was deferred/readvertised for another month. - Work Advisory Committee: Carrie Colb appointed after discussion; she is the elected president of the Wickford Village Association and meets the business-owner requirement. - School Building Committee: Kim Page was reappointed as the council’s representative, and she agreed to serve. Weekly Office Hours - On a motion by Councilor Larry Mandel, the council established trial weekly office hours at Town Hall for one council member to meet with constituents: Tuesdays from 10 to 11 a.m. during January, using the first floor conference room at 80 Boston Road. Council members supported the trial, noted it was not required for all five members, and cautioned that discussions must avoid creating a rolling quorum and should steer residents to town departments and staff where appropriate. Correspondence and Closing - Councilor Katie Anison was absent with the flu; the council wished her a speedy recovery and encouraged flu shots. - Correspondence received included a letter from the Land Conservancy of North Kingstown, a request from Joseph Gentile for reappointment to the Historic District Commission, and a concern from Serena Mason about a light on Anquatucket. - The council adjourned after wishing the public happy holidays and a healthy 2023.

The North Kingstown Town Council held a joint meeting with the School Committee on Monday, December 19, 2022, at 6:30 PM in the Town Hall Council Chambers, as required by RIGL 16-2-21. The meeting focused on pre-budget consultation, with the council and school committee discussing financial planning, state education aid, and collaboration. Public comment had no speakers, and the council also scheduled a future joint meeting with the legislative delegation. Joint Meeting with School Committee (Pre-Budget Consultation) - Town Manager Ralph Mollis opened by praising recent communication with the school department and urged continued collaboration. He identified three priorities: - State education aid: Work together to secure maximum aid, arguing that well-performing school systems should not be punished. - Taxpayer consideration: Asked the school committee to keep taxpayers in mind when formulating the budget. Specifically, he requested that the budget use the full state aid figure allocated by the governor or General Assembly (rather than discounting it as conservative) to avoid overtaxing residents. - Budget ceiling perception: Stressed that the 4% cap is a ceiling, not a target, and that the 0% floor is not a starting point. He asked that the committee not feel compelled to request a 4% increase simply because it is allowed, but instead find a responsible middle ground. - Interim Superintendent Judith Paolucci introduced herself and acknowledged the challenges of starting mid-year. She expressed a fiscally conservative approach and emphasized: - Budget process: Noted that state aid figures will not be available until January, and she has not had enough time to produce a projected budget. She intends to share budget progress transparently with the council. - Transparency: Announced plans to restore the town's real-time access to the school district's financial system (Munis) by creating an additional user, reverting to previous practice without changing the existing Memorandum of Agreement. - Building needs: Described a complex situation with three overlapping capital projects (a $13.5 million bond project, ventilation projects, and a state SBA stage two application). She has reconstituted the building committee, which will meet to align priorities, maximize state reimbursement (currently 35% with potential bonuses), and ensure proper accounting of funds. She will request a postponement of the stage two application to better coordinate with the town. - Council Member Matthew B. McCoy asked about the tax base; Town Manager Mollis responded that preliminary data suggests growth, with firmer numbers expected in January. - Council Member Lawrence C. Mandel welcomed the superintendent and noted her plans for transparency, which he said addressed past concerns from the audit committee. - Council President Gregory A. Mancini expressed confidence in the town manager and encouraged continued communication. He asked about anticipated operational increases (health care, wages). Superintendent Paolucci responded that health care is projected at 3% (shared with the town), but teacher contract negotiations just began, so wage increases are unknown. She noted that utility costs are being analyzed and that the current fiscal year is ending in a good position due to unfilled vacancies. - Council Member Dr. Kimberly Ann Page asked about future building needs. The superintendent outlined her plan to reorganize the building committee, review the facilities master plan, and ensure state incentives are maximized (e.g., 5% bonuses for consolidation, energy efficiency). Key Outcomes - The council and school committee agreed to hold a joint meeting with the legislative delegation on Monday, January 23, 2023, to discuss legislative priorities. Suggestions for topics are requested by January 9, 2023. - Town Manager Mollis invited the school committee to use the Town Hall Council Chambers for their meetings, offering to coordinate scheduling. - No formal votes were taken during this joint session; the meeting was primarily informational and consultative. Other Business - The council briefly addressed a streaming technology issue (provider Granicus) and took a five-minute recess to attempt a fix. - Public comment had no speakers.