Public Meetings - North Kingstown, Rhode Island

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, September 6, 2022, at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Offices Court Room. The meeting covered a continued comprehensive permit project, two pre-applications, and approval of minutes. Key actions included a positive consensus on the Caldwell duplex and conditional approval to combine stages for the Wickford Gourmet subdivision. Discussion Items - Item 3a: Caldwell/North K Properties Duplex (289 Essex Road) - Continued from April, May, June, and August 2022. The final outstanding issue, architectural design, was resolved with revised plans showing side entrances instead of front doors. Fire Marshal and Building Official had no concerns. The applicant presented the plan as identical layout with relocated doors. The commission discussed findings under the Low and Moderate Income Housing Act, noting the duplex is 100% affordable, meets most standards, and requires only relief for frontage (special use permit) and duplex use in a single-family zone. Conditions included stormwater maintenance, demolition of existing garage, property line adjustment, landscaping requirements (minimum 4-foot shrubs, no Rose of Sharon at driveway end), and no front entrance. - Item 3b: Dube/Wickford Gourmet Two-Lot Subdivision (21 West Main Street) - Pre-application for a major subdivision requiring zoning relief. The existing property has mixed zoning (Wickford Village Center, Village Residential, and Historic District). Proposed lots A and B will match existing buildings and parking, with no new construction. Key issues: frontage deficiencies (both lots need variances), shared sewer and water lines (to be separated with meters and backflow preventers), parking allocation, dumpster relocation, and potential conservation easement over wetland buffer. The commission suggested combining master and preliminary stages to save time. - Item 3c: West Shannock Associates Commercial Condominiums (280 Dry Bridge Road) - Pre-application for 12 commercial/industrial condominium units (approx. 100,000 sq ft) in Light Industrial zone and Groundwater Protection Overlay District. Seven phases, one existing curb cut, one proposed new curb cut. On-site wastewater (nitrogen-reducing OWTS) and public water. Discussion focused on parking ratios (to be refined with final uses), stormwater management (must meet current regulations, water quality volume, pre-treatment), soil constraints, and control of future uses to avoid groundwater contamination. The applicant noted a prior 2009 approval for a similar project that was never built. No vote taken; next step is master plan with potential site walk. - Item 3d: Carriage Hill Farm Construction Cost Estimate - Continued; not discussed this meeting. - Minutes of August 16, 2022 - Approved with amendments to include discussion about DPW traffic concerns and Shady Lea Road access. Key Outcomes - Caldwell Duplex (3a): The commission gave a 4-0 positive consensus to proceed with the side-entrance design, building on findings that the project meets affordable housing standards. Formal vote scheduled for October 4, 2022. - Wickford Gourmet Subdivision (3b): The commission voted (4-0) to conditionally combine master and preliminary stages, subject to zoning board relief approval. Staff will notify applicant of preliminary requirements. - West Shannock Condominiums (3c): No decision made; pre-application discussion only. Applicant directed to submit a formal master plan application. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:00 PM.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Wednesday, August 24, 2022, at 6:45 PM at the Beechwood Senior Center. The meeting covered a wide range of topics including recognition of kidney donors, a public hearing for a secondhand license, public comments on various issues, consent agenda items, town manager reports, advisory board survey results, follow-up on the McGuirl report, water main extensions, appointments, and discussion of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Town and School Department. The council also addressed the resignation of a School Committee member and set a special meeting to fill the vacancy. Consent Calendar - Items 7-34 (Approved with removals): The council approved a consent agenda covering routine items including approval of minutes (July 18, 2022), tax abatements, donations, bid awards (fire command vehicle, police radios, facilities assessment), supplemental school appropriation, license transfers, holiday sales renewals, grant acceptance, meeting schedule amendment, .gov domain authorization, bond reduction, first readings of fee schedule amendments, stop sign amendment, and tax exemption addition. Items 11, 13, 15, 23, 24, and 27 were removed for separate discussion. - Item 11 (Resignation from Conservation Commission): Councilor Brimer expressed concern about the appointee’s attendance at planning board meetings. The council approved the resignation with a request to follow up on attendance. - Item 13 (Police Radios): Councilor McKay questioned the $37,029.50 cost for ten portable radios. Police Chief explained the radios are 14 years old and failing, and the cost includes accessories and batteries. The item was approved. - Item 15 (Supplemental School Appropriation): The school department received an additional $278,000 in state aid. Councilor McKay questioned whether this could be redirected, but the Town Manager explained it must go to the school and does not affect maintenance of effort. Approved. - Items 23 & 24 (BLM RI PAC Event): Applicant Danielle Walsh confirmed the event is a Black Lives Matter Rhode Island fundraiser with 45 RSVPs. Councilor Brimer noted the use of public property for candidate promotion but approved with a request for a police detail if needed. Approved. - Item 27 (Fire Department Grant): Fire Chief Scott Cattell explained the $951,000 federal grant (90% federal, 10% town) for 88 portable radios, 29 mobile radios, and 15 mobile repeaters. The town’s share is $84,808. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Randy Wheatman (40 Sanford Ave): Urged the council to appoint Bob Jones to the School Committee vacancy, citing the charter’s intent to select the next highest vote-getter. - Sarah Lee Norton (West Cove Drive): Commented on Item 48 (MOU), suggesting the MOU may no longer be needed and that decisions should wait until new personnel are in place. - Susan Erickson (96 Mesa Drive): A teacher asked the council to appoint a School Committee member who will be fair to teachers, advance contract negotiations, address teacher shortages, and prioritize student welfare. - Ed Cooney (22 House in Court): Supported the facilities assessment bid (Item 14) and the appointment of Anthony Miccolis to the Asset Management Commission (Item 42). - Michael Carter (85 Ocean Woods Drive): Described the VFW’s October Vets event (beer garden, band, 5K run) on October 1, 2022. - Rick Salzman (511 Fletcher Road): Criticized the Zoning Board’s August 9th decision to allow two cows on a substandard lot, arguing the board did not apply URI standards or the eight criteria for special use permits. He asked the council for oversight. - Sue Day (511 Fletcher Road): Supported her husband’s comments and added that the Zoning Board did not evaluate the request using the URI standards, and that the applicant called them “outdated.” - Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane): Raised concerns about poor audio at streamed meetings, planning board attendance, asked if the recreation building would be on the ballot, and requested better town signage. - Kathleen Garino (139 Summit View Lane): Thanked Jake Mather for his service and asked that the new School Committee member prioritize children’s best interests, safety, critical thinking, diversity, and balanced academics/athletics/arts. - Vicky Ferrara (570 Fletcher Road): Supported the Salzmans’ zoning concerns and asked the council to consider wetlands on the property. Also requested handicap-accessible porta-johns at playgrounds. - Richard Corcoran (89 Fletcher Road): Questioned the council’s ability to oversee the Zoning Board and expressed concern that the board’s decision was subjective rather than fact-based, leading to potential appeals costs. - Patrick Murray (83 Nepal Road, Narragansett): Introduced himself as a candidate for Senate District 36. Discussion Items - Item 36 – Advisory Boards/Committees Survey: Town Manager Ralph presented results of a survey of advisory committee members. 63 responses (30-40% participation). 94% were satisfied with interaction with town staff; 62% with council interaction. 75% felt no additional direction needed. 50% were split on sending reports to council and on council liaisons. The council discussed possibly letting the next council decide on liaisons, and considered having staff gather further feedback on board relevance. - Item 37 – Follow-up Letter to School Committee on McGuirl Report: Councilor Anderson proposed sending a follow-up letter requesting a written response to the recommendations in Judge McGuirl’s report. The council voted to send the letter, with a deadline for the school committee to respond after their August 30th meeting, and to make the response public by September 18th before the school committee’s September 20th meeting. - Item 38 – CRMC Application for Boat Ramp Expansion: The council approved a “no substantive objection” to the town’s application to expand the concrete launching ramp and construct a new public boating facility at 8150 Post Road. The project is expected to cost around $700,000, with 75% grant funding from DEM/U.S. Fish and Wildlife. The town’s portion includes in-kind services. No funding is budgeted for FY2023; the council will need to approve funding later. - Item 39 – Water Main Extension for Pinewood Village Apartments: Approved with nine conditions, including no in-ground irrigation. The water system has supply surplus; fire marshal required a two-hour firewall. The project is for 88 two-bedroom units in 22 buildings on the former Bald Hill Nursery site. - Item 40 – Water Main Extension for Reynolds Farm North: Approved with nine conditions similar to Item 39. Fire Chief clarified that previous concerns about road access and parking have been addressed through signage and cooperation with the developer. - Item 41 – Rescission of Appointment to Board of Canvassers: Councilor Brimer moved to rescind the appointment of Susan Patras and appoint Julia McKay as alternate member. Approved. - Item 42 – Asset Management Commission Appointment: Anthony Miccolis appointed to fill the unexpired term of Edson Place. Approved. - Items 43-47 – Other Appointments: No applicants for the Economic Development Advisory Board (Item 43), Information Technology Advisory Committee (Item 45), Wickford Advisory Committee (Item 46), and Wickford Village Design Guidelines Committee (Item 47); these will be re-advertised. Robert McGill was appointed to the Groundwater Committee (Item 44). - Item 48 – MOU between Town and School Department: Councilor McKay argued that the town finance director and manager should have read access to the school’s general ledger for transparency. Town Manager Ralph agreed but noted state law gives the school autonomy. The council decided to revisit the issue in October after the new superintendent and school finance director are in place, with the aim of amending the MOU to provide read access. - Item 49 – Resignation of Jake Mather from School Committee: The council discussed the process to fill the vacancy. Solicitor Matt advised against appointing someone at the meeting due to potential open meetings law violations. The council voted to advertise for letters of interest by September 9th and hold a special meeting on September 14, 2022 at 5:30 PM to make the appointment. Candidates who are currently on the ballot may be appointed, but they would need to withdraw by September 16th if they wish to allow their party to replace them on the ballot. Key Outcomes - Approved licenses: Secondhand license for Elizah Lily's Second Chances; entertainment and exhibition licenses for VFW, Recreation Department, Glimmer of Hope Foundation, and Black Lives Matter RI PAC. - Approved grants and bids: Fire Department command vehicle ($45,530), police radios ($37,029.50), facilities condition assessment ($30,000), and acceptance of the 2021 Assistance to Firefighters Grant ($951,000 federal, $84,808 town). - Approved water main extensions: Pinewood Village Apartments and Reynolds Farm North, each with nine conditions. - School Committee vacancy: The council will hold a special meeting on September 14, 2022 at 5:30 PM to appoint a replacement for Jake Mather. Letters of interest are due by September 9, 2022. - Follow-up on McGuirl report: The council will send a letter to the School Committee requesting a written response by September 6, 2022, to be made public by September 18, 2022. - MOU discussion: The council will revisit the MOU with the school department in October 2022, after new school leadership is in place, to push for read access to the school’s general ledger. - Appointments: Julia McKay to the Board of Canvassers; Anthony Miccolis to the Asset Management Commission; Robert McGill to the Groundwater Committee. - CRMC application: No substantive objection approved for the town’s boat ramp project; funding to be determined later.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met at 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 16, 2022, in the Municipal Offices Court Room, 100 Fairway Drive. The commission approved a donation shed development plan, received a pre-application presentation for a farm winery at the former Rodman Barn, and continued a comprehensive permit public hearing for a proposed duplex at 289 Essex Road until September 6, 2022. Development Plan Review: Donation Center Shed - Staff reviewed the application of Jennifer Chase, on behalf of the VFW, to place a 96 sq ft donation shed at the Carriage Inn property, 1065 Tower Hill Road, known as Assessor's Plat 72, Lot 89, in a General Business zone and Groundwater Recharge Area Overlay District. - Staff noted the shed would be located in a grassy area between Tower Hill Road and the parking lot; no water, wastewater, wetlands, flood zone, or new lighting were involved. Engineering asked about the base, and the applicant planned to level the ground without a concrete pad, which meets building code. - Jennifer Chase of St. Polly Textile said her company maintains more than 1,300 donation sheds statewide, with none currently in North Kingstown. Pickups would occur weekly or more often, the VFW and Carriage Inn would have keys, and donations would benefit the VFW's community projects. - In response to dumping concerns, the applicant and commissioners discussed that a well-maintained, visible shed is less likely to attract illegal dumping than a metal bin, and visibility is preferable to heavy screening. - The commission voted to approve the development plan review; the motion carried with all members in favor and no opposition voiced. Minutes - The commission approved the draft minutes of August 2, 2022, as written. Vice Chairman Roach reserved the right to email grammatical changes. Pre-Application Discussion: Gooseneck Vineyards Farm Winery - Torre Collina, LLC, doing business as Gooseneck Vineyards, presented a pre-application for a 5,400 sq ft farm winery at the former Rodman Barn, 1340 and 1376 Tower Hill Road, known as Assessor's Plat 7, Lots 13, 22, and 23, in a Rural Residential zone and Groundwater Recharge Area Zone 2. - Staff explained that this was a conceptual review with no decision, and that the application was triggered by the groundwater recharge and scenic overlay districts. - The applicant proposes to reuse the existing barn with no new structures, about 200 sq ft of retail space and about 2,100 sq ft of tasting area, low-lumen lighting, landscaping buffers, no outdoor storage or fencing, and tentative hours of Wednesday through Sunday, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. - The applicant said the project would include growing grapes on site, but crushing and initial processing would occur off-site because the existing septic system cannot handle high-strength winery wastewater. Wine and must would be brought back to the barn for fermenting and blending; a new, more robust septic system is planned. - One commissioner asked whether the proposal met the farm winery ordinance's definition of a winery, since the application stated that no wine making would take place on site. The applicant maintained that fermenting and blending on site meet the intent of the ordinance. A consultant cited DEM guidance recommending that brewery and winery high-strength wastewater be segregated and disposed of in approved holding tanks rather than discharged to septic systems. - Traffic access was a major concern because the site is at the Route 1/Route 4 interchange area. The applicant said RIDOT requested re-establishment of the entrance apron and signage including a stop sign, stop bar, and no-left-turn signs. The existing driveway would be reused for now; possible future access changes were acknowledged. - Staff reported a DEM septic suitability for 25 seats and five employees, the need for a future nitrate loading analysis, and ongoing discussions about parking, overflow field stabilization, and buffering. No vote was taken. Public Informational Hearing: Caldwell Comprehensive Permit Duplex - The commission continued a master plan comprehensive permit application by David A. Caldwell, Sr., and Virginia Caldwell, also known as North K Properties, LLC, for a low- and moderate-income duplex at 289 Essex Road, Assessor's Plat 158, Lot 21, in a Neighborhood Residential zone. The hearing had been continued from April 5, May 3, and June 21, 2022. - Staff reported that the applicants submitted a landscaping plan, a sight-distance plan, and revised architectural options in response to prior commission requests, but no separate sight-distance narrative and no new renderings had been submitted in advance. - Attorney James Cooper presented witnesses: landscape architect Colin T. Hines, engineer Craig Carrigan, and David A. Caldwell Jr. The landscape plan included inkberry, arborvitae, a hibiscus, and a six-foot board fence to screen headlights. The sight-distance analysis used a 4.25-foot eye height and an 18-inch object, showing roughly 150 feet to the west and about 50 feet to the east; the driveway has existed for about 100 years. - David Caldwell Jr. presented a revised plan with entrances moved to the sides to make the building look more like a single-family home and to support ADA-adaptable layouts with easier ramp access. The commission noted the revised design would need fire marshal review because fire officials often prefer doors facing the road. Public Comments & Testimony - Matt Logie raised concerns about new plantings obstructing his driveway view, traffic speed around the corner, his children near a long driveway, and the need for a permanent property-line adjustment. He also worried the front portion of the lot could later be developed as multifamily housing. - Another speaker objected to the application, saying it had been shut down at zoning, was not fitting for the neighborhood, and should be denied based on case law and precedent in North Kingstown. The chair noted the solicitor had previously explained that applicants may reapply after one year, and this comprehensive permit application was different from the zoning application. - Bill Flynn, a resident and retired head of the Senior Agenda Coalition, spoke in support of the need for senior housing and said the revised design was an improvement. He also relayed his wife's experience as a physical therapist, raising wheelchair-access concerns with a single-entrance design. Key Outcomes - Approved the 96 sq ft donation shed development plan review unanimously. - Approved the August 2, 2022 meeting minutes. - Took no action on the Gooseneck Vineyards pre-application; identified issues for the future formal application. - Continued the Caldwell duplex comprehensive permit public hearing to September 6, 2022, and limited further public comment to the revised architectural drawings and fire marshal review. The board noted an extended deadline of November 30, 2022.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, August 2, 2022, at 7:30 PM in the Municipal Offices Court Room. The agenda included a request to change the meeting start time, a surety release for Reynolds Farm Apartments, an informal discussion on a potential project for Assessor's Plat 112 Lot 65 on Quaker Lane, and a discussion on potential updates to the Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Regulations. No minutes were provided, and the raw transcription consisted of garbled, unintelligible speech, preventing extraction of substantive discussion or decisions. Discussion Items - Request to Change Planning Commission Start Time to 7:00 PM – Listed on the agenda; no meaningful discussion could be transcribed. - Surety Release: Reynolds Farm 3A (Reynolds Farm Apartments) – Listed as a general business item; no details available. - Informal Discussion: Potential Project Path for Assessor's Plat 112 Lot 65 on Quaker Lane – Referenced as a concept plan set and a request; no discussion captured. - Discussion: Input on potential North Kingstown Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision and Land Development Regulations updates/amendments – A memorandum was cited; no substantive debate transcribed. Key Outcomes - No decisions, votes, or directives could be identified due to the absence of usable transcript or minutes. The meeting appears to have been held, but the available record is insufficient to determine outcomes. Note: The raw transcription contained no coherent statements from speakers, and no minutes were provided. This summary is based solely on the agenda and may not reflect actual proceedings.

The North Kingstown Town Council met at 7:00 PM on Monday, July 18, 2022, at the Beechwood Senior Center, 44 Beach Street, North Kingstown, Rhode Island. The agenda included presentations on Boom Local and a school-business investment fund, the consent calendar, the town manager's report, a Wickford Advisory Committee update, a CRMC application, Board of Canvassers appointments, and November 2022 ballot questions on adult-use cannabis licenses and several Town Charter amendments. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Welch, 8 Arrow Lane, thanked the town manager for addressing overflowing collection bins at the TJ Maxx parking lot. He criticized the water department's slow progress on a 10-year, $20 million infrastructure plan and said about $9 million had been collected but not spent on repairs. He asked for leak repairs and coordination with public works. Town Manager Ralph Mollis responded that the council recently authorized a leak-detection flyover survey using infrared technology, delayed about 30 days by a cost-sharing arrangement with a neighboring community, with a report expected in August or September 2022. - Brett Mallory supported Councilor Mary Brimer's prior suggestion to freeze school surplus or assets while lawsuits are pending, describing how lawsuits crippled his Ohio school system and caused cuts to programs, sports, and staff. - Virginia Sanders, 190 Waldron Avenue, praised the tax bill information letter but urged the school committee to emphasize character, work ethic, and boundaries. She also expressed concern that litigation would benefit lawyers more than the town or schools and asked whether students from West Bay Christian Academy would be discriminated against. The council president responded that they would not be discriminated against. - Curtis Fisher, 104 Phillips, Wickford, supported improving the water department and suggested the July 4 fireworks barge was too far out in the bay. He said residents were not against redevelopment of the Wickford Elementary School and theater, but opposed what he called exploitation and excessive zoning exceptions. Council President Mancini disagreed, warning that the developer might withdraw as interest rates rise and the market softens, and discussed contractual obligations to the developer. - Susanna Tingley, 750 Hatchery Road, opposed the cannabis ballot question, citing increased crime, traffic, noise, odor, water use, public health risks, and negative effects on property values and community character, and asked the council to wait and study impacts elsewhere. Special Business: Boom Local Presentation - Nicole, a town staff member, and Town Manager Ralph Mollis demonstrated Boom Local, a startup-created business directory for North Kingstown. The platform is mobile-friendly, searchable, and includes categories such as food and drink; businesses do not pay to be listed. The town owns the underlying data and contracted for one year with a setup fee plus an integration fee per active business, described as a little over $1 per business for about 350 businesses and under bid requirements. - Councilor Mary Brimer asked whether it would compete with the Chamber of Commerce or Wickford Merchants Association; Mollis said it is an added asset, not a dues-paying membership directory. Council members asked about driving traffic to the site; staff said promotion, marketing, social media, and a planned website revamp would follow, with possible public rollout in late September or early October 2022. - The town also plans to use the data for planning, emergency response, and economic development. Special Business: School Business Investment Fund - Finance Director Jim and student intern Morgan Martucci presented a proposal to invest $50,000 of town funds through the high school business program. Students would develop and follow an investment policy, get approval for trades from supervisors, and any profits could be used for scholarships. The program would provide real-world investing experience and is pending school committee approval. - Councilor Brimer asked that the school committee be asked to match the town's $50,000 contribution given the school surplus. She also asked about Edward Jones fees and ticket charges; Jim said those questions would be discussed in a meeting with the financial representative. - Councilor Page praised the proposal, comparing it to university-managed funds. Consent Calendar - Items 7, 13-17, and 21-23 were approved by one motion, including the June 13, 2022 minutes; tax abatement list 859 in the amount of $1,464.99; Fire Department radio interface equipment from Motorola Solutions for $24,647.50; Golf Course bunker rake from A-OK Turf Equipment for $26,028.00; authorization to apply for the state FY2022 Body-Worn Camera Grant; two entertainment licenses for town beach campus and bandshell events; holiday sales license renewals; and victualling license transfer and new license actions. - Donations items 9-12 were pulled and approved separately. Councilor Brimer recognized donors and noted the donations totaled $11,350, plus $100 for the North Kingstown Animal Shelter, $100 for the Police Department, and $400 for the Recreation Department's Al's Kids Scholarship Fund. - Fireworks ratification items 18-20 were pulled and approved. The permits ratified were for Plum Beach Club on July 1, the Town of North Kingstown on July 3, and Quidnessett Country Club on July 4, 2022. Welch asked why the approvals were after the fact; the town manager explained the June council meeting was canceled and the fire department had signed off on the permits. Town Manager Report - Ralph Mollis reported that short-term rental research would be completed by October, with recommendations to the council in November or December 2022. He noted the state now requires registration; North Kingstown currently has no local short-term rental regulation, and Newport recently adopted a comprehensive ordinance. - Tax bills were mailed the first week of July with an informational letter; the first quarter bill is due July 30, 2022. - DOT resurfacing of Route 1A/Boston Neck Road began July 18, starting on Route 2/South County Trail from Route 102 to the Pawcatuck River through December 15, with work on Boston Neck Road planned for spring. - The Davisville Railroad Bridge on Devils Foot Road will be closed to all traffic for repairs, with utility work this summer, detours beginning spring 2023, and reopening expected fall 2023. A resident asked about fire engine coverage for about 400 homes on the other side; Mollis said he would consult with the fire chief. - Rhode Island Energy is proposing a four-community, 14-mile infrastructure refurbishment project through North Kingstown along Old Baptist Road, Tower Hill Road, and into the Wickford Junction substation; a public meeting is being scheduled. - Renovation of 80 Boston Neck Road is expected to be complete by mid-August with occupancy after Labor Day, followed by a ribbon cutting and the September council meeting in the new chambers. - Aronian Associates is completing conceptual improvements for the municipal office building at 100 Fairway Drive. - Harbor Lights has grown into a popular monthly event attracting thousands of visitors, but is facing financial challenges; Mollis said he will seek council assistance to sustain it. Council members expressed support. Wickford Advisory Committee Quarterly Report - Chair Mike Dunney and Vice Chair George Brennan reported on the committee's recent work: advocating for EV charging stations in Wickford, supporting ARPA funding for Post Road and West Main sidewalks, helping form consensus on the Brown/Phillips/Boston Neck roundabout, forming subcommittees on the old town meeting house and Brown Street economic development and housing, pursuing flashing speed signs on West Main and Phillips Street, and continuing village tree plantings. They also noted new members Jeff Shapiro and Dana Long and thanked departing member Jean Milleransi. - Council members suggested private or non-town funding for the old town meeting house and discussed a possible Wickford Junction-to-Wickford shuttle, trolley, or bike program, including a holiday pilot. New Business: CRMC Application for Plum Beach Club - The council approved filing no substantive objection to Coastal Resources Management Council Application Number 2021-02-053, allowing Plum Beach Club to modify the existing recreational boating facility for more stable floats at 255 Plum Beach Road, Plat 41, Lot 69. The approval included one condition consistent with the recommendation from the deputy director of public works: piles should be completely removed rather than cut off below marine bottom grade. New Business: Board of Canvassers Appointments - The council appointed Kent Dresser from alternate to full member of the Board of Canvassers until March 1, 2027, filling Patricia Fuller's unexpired term, and appointed Susan Petris as an alternate member until March 1, 2024. The appointments were endorsed by the Republican Party. New Business: Adult-Use Cannabis Ballot Question - The council voted to place on the November 2022 ballot a question on issuing related licenses for cultivation, manufacture, laboratory testing, and retail sales of adult recreational-use cannabis in North Kingstown. The council was advised that if it did not place the question on the ballot, the state could issue cannabis licenses without local regulation. The motion was approved without audible opposition. New Business: Town Charter Amendment Ballot Questions - Section 105, titled Property, would be amended to add lease to the town's property powers, subject to Section 314. Approved. - Section 314 would require voter approval for leases of town lands or properties of 25 or more years, instead of the existing 10-year threshold. Approved. - Section 314 would allow the Town Council to sell town real property without voter approval when the sales price does not exceed $300,000. The Charter Review Commission recommended $100,000; after discussion, the council set the threshold at $300,000. Approved. - Section 405, titled Appointments, would be deleted and appointment and removal authority placed with the town manager under Section 507C. Approved. - Section 802, titled Planning Commission, would remove the town manager, head of public works, and town engineer as ex officio members because they serve on the Technical Review Committee. Approved. - Section 1305A would require Charter Review Commission review every 10 years instead of every 6 years. Approved. - Section 1305 would allow the council, by unanimous vote of all five members, to adopt ordinances making administrative charter changes limited to grammar, sentence construction, standardization, renumbering, and compliance with federal and state law. Approved. New Business: Town-School MOU and Correspondence - Item 30, discussion of the Memorandum of Understanding between the town and school department regarding financial management, requested by Councilor Kerry McKay, was continued to the next meeting because McKay was not feeling well. The motion to continue was approved. - Councilor Brimer read correspondence received since June 21, including messages about Judge McGorrell's report, public access legislation, beach signage, Mount View parking, Narragansett runestone preservation, fireworks feedback, Harbor Lights suggestions, charter amendment language concerns, and a speed limit sign request for Fletcher Estates. Key Outcomes - Approved consent items and the separate donation and fireworks ratification packets. - Approved the CRMC no-substantial-objection determination for Plum Beach Club with the condition that piles be completely removed. - Appointed Kent Dresser and Susan Petris to the Board of Canvassers. - Approved the adult-use cannabis licensing ballot question for November 2022. - Approved seven charter amendment ballot questions for November 2022, including setting at $300,000 the real estate sales threshold that would not require voter approval. - Continued the town-school financial management MOU discussion to the next regular meeting. - The town manager indicated he would follow up on water leak detection, fire response coverage during the Davisville Bridge closure, Harbor Lights assistance, and a possible Wickford Junction-to-Wickford shuttle or trolley program. - All approval votes were voice votes with no opposed votes noted; no roll-call tallies were recorded.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission convened on Tuesday, June 21, 2022, at 7:30 PM in the Municipal Offices Court Room. The meeting addressed two main agenda items: a continuance request for a minor modification at Cottages at Weeden Farms (Item 3B) and a continued public informational hearing on a major land development comprehensive permit for a duplex at 289 Essex Road (Item 3A). The commission also recognized outgoing Commissioner Paul Dion. Public Comments & Testimony - Stephen Lamendola (abutter at 289 Essex Rd.) expressed concerns about the character of the proposed duplex, arguing it does not fit the neighborhood and criticizing the method of obtaining frontage by following the stone wall contour. He noted that one nearby duplex is being converted to a single-family home. - Tyler Miller (attorney for abutter Jared Cello at 245 Essex Rd.) raised the possibility that the town has reached or has plans to reach the 10% affordable housing threshold under RIGL 45-53-4, which could allow the board to deny the comprehensive permit even if all findings are met. He urged the board to consider that option given abutter objections. - Mike Logee (abutter) provided detailed comments on affordable housing numbers, citing the comprehensive plan’s projection of 194 additional units needed by 2039, and noted that North Kingstown was eighth in the state and highest in Washington County for affordable housing percentage as of 2020. He also raised concerns about the legality of the 2019 administrative subdivision that created the current lot configuration, stating that it turned a conforming lot into a non-conforming one without proper board review, and questioned whether the plans accurately reflect lot status. Discussion Items - Item 3B – Minor Modification Request for Cottages at Weeden Farms: The commission moved this item ahead of 3A. The applicant’s attorney requested a continuance to the next available meeting in July. The commission voted unanimously (6-0) to continue the hearing to July 19, 2022. - Item 3A – Master Plan Application for 289 Essex Road (North K Properties, LLC): This was a continued public informational hearing from April 5 and May 3, 2022. The applicant seeks a comprehensive permit under RIGL 45-53 for two low- and moderate-income duplex units on a lot in the Neighborhood Residential (NR) zone. - Staff Report: Planning staff summarized new submissions: a revised site plan and soil erosion control plan updated to show the approved OWTS location, driveway, and water line. Staff contacted RIDEM regarding stormwater requirements; because the disturbance is under one acre and no wetlands are affected, the project only needs to address new impervious surfaces using single-family lot standards. No landscaping plan or sight-distance analysis was submitted, despite earlier requests. Public works comments were also received. - Applicant’s Presentation: Attorney James Cooper presented surveyor Chris Palmer and engineer Richard Carigan. Palmer explained the frontage measurement along the stone wall, possible encroachments (lawn, driveway), and the driveway relocation to the east side to meet side setbacks. Carigan described the OWTS (approved in 2017, designed for four bedrooms but only two needed), stormwater calculations using a 25-year storm (exceeding DEM’s single-family standards), and the proposed erosion control measures. - Commission Discussion: Commissioner Paul Dion asked about maintenance of permeable driveway – noted that the property owner (North K Properties) would be responsible. The project is age-restricted. There was extensive discussion about the need for a landscaping plan to address visual impacts, sight-distance analysis for the driveway, and architectural design to better match the neighborhood. The applicant agreed to provide a landscape plan (by Colin Hines) and to move the driveway permanently to the east side in the future. Chairman Grundy emphasized that the landscape plan is critical for making positive findings on comprehensive permit standards. The commission also clarified that the lot is legally non-conforming in width, and no dimensional variances are being sought. - Affordable Housing Context: Commissioner Dion asked about the impact on North Kingstown’s affordable housing stock; staff noted the project would add two units. Discussion revealed that the town currently has 961 affordable housing units (excluding those without certificates of occupancy), with additional units at Reynolds Farm (80 total, 40 online), Rolling Greens (15 units, 11 affordable), Pinewood (22 affordable), and several other projects in the pipeline. The town’s comprehensive plan outlines a goal of 10% affordable housing, which staff stated the town has plans to achieve. Key Outcomes - Vote to Continue Item 3B: Unanimous (6-0) to continue the minor modification request for Cottages at Weeden Farms to July 19, 2022. - Continuation of Item 3A Hearing: The commission decided to continue the public informational hearing to allow the applicant to submit additional materials: a landscaping plan (focusing on buffering from abutting properties), sight-distance analysis for the driveway, and revised architectural renderings to better fit the neighborhood character. The applicant’s deadline for submissions was set for August 16, 2022, and the extension for the overall application was extended from September 30 to November 30, 2022. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after the commission thanked outgoing Commissioner Paul Dion for his 13 years of service.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on June 13, 2022, at the Beechwood Senior Center. The meeting included significant public comment, discussion and votes on a special investigation report, a charter review commission report, a gun violence awareness proclamation, consent agenda approvals, reports from the town manager and finance director, and numerous appointments and routine new business items. Public Comments & Testimony - Brian O'Dell criticized the three Democratic council members for voting in lockstep over 750 times, questioned spending $700/sq ft on town hall renovations, and accused the council of ignoring school sexual abuse while focusing on gun legislation. - Tom Vriety supported the gun violence awareness proclamation, citing his transition from NRA supporter to advocate for gun safety. - Richard Welch criticized the late release (5 p.m. the day of the meeting) of Judge McGuirl's report, calling it a lack of transparency. - Melissa Devine and Kathleen Garino voiced strong support for the gun violence proclamation, emphasizing the need for common-sense gun laws. - Matthew McCoy detailed recent state gun safety bills passed by the House and urged council to pass the resolution, noting endorsements from law enforcement. - Stacy Weinstein warned that the proclamation should not be a “check in the box” and urged continued community action. - Megan Riley called the timing of the proclamation “political theater” and a distraction from the school sexual abuse scandal; she noted that four employees are on administrative leave and two lawsuits are pending. - Timothy Conlin, attorney for abuse victims, commended the council for commissioning the independent report and urged implementation of Judge McGuirl’s recommendations, especially counseling for victims. - Ralph Luna objected to spraying by a company in Bissell’s Cove, asking the town manager to follow up. - Jane Hennedy invited residents to a Juneteenth event at Casey Farm on June 19. - Jim McGuinn requested the town council reschedule the June 27 meeting to discuss school safety, referencing the 2007 North Kingstown Safety Committee recommendations. - Kim Lanaway, a teacher, criticized the proclamation as useless and raised concerns about drug overdoses and weapons in schools. - Ann Gertman supported the proclamation, noting gun violence is the leading cause of death for children. - Joe Vento supported the proclamation. - Mary Warburton supported the proclamation, recounting the impact of mass shootings. - Lisa Andrews urged passage of the resolution. - Susan Patris opposed the proclamation, arguing it does nothing and that “a good guy with a gun” is the best defense. Special Business Judge McGuirl’s Report on School Investigation – Council President Mancini introduced the report, noting the judge met with over 50 individuals at no additional cost. The report found that no student ever reported the fat-testing to a teacher, coach, or administrator. Council members expressed dismay and discussed recommendations: Kerry McKay insisted on a “never again” rule that no staff be alone with a student; Mary Brimer called for freezing a portion of the school surplus to settle claims and fund counseling; she also highlighted unequal pay for female coach Kayla Schulter. The council voted unanimously (5-0) to receive the report and forward it to the school committee for a formal response. Charter Review Commission Report – Chairman John Gibbons presented recommendations. After debate: - Article 1 (powers, allowing lease of property) and Article 3 (extending lease limit from 10 to 25 years) were approved by voice vote. - Article 4, Section 405 (department heads appoint subordinates) was deleted (approved) because it conflicts with the town manager’s authority. - Article 5 (requiring advice and consent of council for town manager appointments) was not approved; Kerry McKay opposed it, supported by the majority. - Article 7 (removing town manager and heads from Planning Commission) was approved. - Article 8 (Asset Management Commission funding) was discussed at length; the council decided not to send it to voters, accepting the town manager’s view that current budgeting is more transparent. - Article 13 (mandatory charter review every 10 years) was approved. - An administrative amendment allowing ministerial changes by unanimous council vote was approved. Gun Violence Awareness Proclamation – Councilor Anderson read the resolution declaring June as Gun Violence Awareness Month in North Kingstown. Councilor McKay opposed, citing hypocrisy and lack of strategy; Councilor Brimer said it was ineffective without targeting; Councilor Page supported it. Vote: Anderson (yes), Brimer (no), McKay (no), Page (yes), Mancini (yes) – passed 3-2. Consent Calendar Items 8–39 were approved in one motion, except items 21 and 28 removed by councilors. - Item 8: Approval of minutes from April 25 and May 16, 2022. - Items 9–39: Routine financial, bid awards, license renewals, donations, and resignations. - Council removed Item 21 (police vehicle purchase) for discussion; after explanation of a single-vehicle accident causing a total loss, it was approved. - Item 28 (entertainment license for Gregg’s Restaurant) was removed by Councilor Brimer and approved after clarifying no public hearing was required. Reports - Town Manager (Ralph Mollis): Reported Wickford Village placed 1 in USA Today’s “Best Historic Small Town” (to be announced June 17); library renovations nearing completion; progress on community choice aggregation; exploring Airbnb regulations; core vocabulary board installed at McGinn Park; town hall renovations on schedule for occupancy after Labor Day; motor vehicle tax eliminated by state, saving $11,000 in printing/postage. - Finance Director (Jim Lather): Reported a $2.1 million surplus ($1.3M after fund balance), only 7 properties left on tax sale; FEMA reimbursement of $160,000 for snowstorm; $34,000 health insurance rebate; clarified that a 20% liability premium increase is not due to the school lawsuits but to overall pool factors. Discussion Items - CRMC Application for Rome Point LLC (Item 42): Allowed replacement of oyster cages with low-profile floating baskets. Harbor Management Commission recommended no substantive objection. Approved. - CRMC Application for Allen Harbor (Item 43): Modified existing mooring field with no increase in boat count. Approved. - RIDOT Construction Agreement (Item 44): For traffic signal work along Boston Neck Road. Approved; note that the agreement still used the old state name “Providence Plantations.” - EB PILOT Amendment (Item 45): Second amendment to payment-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Electric Boat for a new plant, expected to bring $4.3 million over 19 years. Approved. - Vote Ordering Tax, Vote of Appropriation (All funds, Library, School), Vote to Apply for Funds – all approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Judge McGuirl Report: Received and forwarded to school committee for response. - Charter Review Amendments: Voters will consider changes to Articles 1, 3, 4 (Sec. 405), 7, and 13, plus the administrative amendment provision. - Gun Violence Awareness Month: Proclamation passed 3-2. - Appointments: - Councilor Mancini appointed to Superintendent Screening Committee; recommendation to also appoint Town Manager Mollis (approved). - Peter Healey reappointed to Building Code Board of Appeals (5-0 vote due to 12+ years). - Economic Development Advisory Board – tabled for re-advertisement. - Groundwater Committee: Ahren Cohen and Richard Graefe reappointed. - Information Technology Advisory Committee – tabled for re-advertisement. - Leisure Services Advisory Committee: Five members reappointed (Shore, Lemieux, Andrews, Reilly, Linnane). - Personnel Board: Thomas Reilly appointed. - Planning Commission: Meg Kerr appointed (3-2 vote over Kevin Bernardo). - Probate Judge: Brian Fielding reappointed. - Wickford Advisory Committee – tabled for re-advertisement. - Wickford Village Design Guidelines Committee – no applicants, tabled. - Zoning Board of Review: Three members reappointed (Wietman, Kliever, Warren).

This is the summary of the North Kingstown Planning Commission meeting held on June 7, 2022, at 7:30 PM. The meeting covered a master plan extension request that was withdrawn, a revised surety reduction for the Dusty Hollow development, approval of the previous meeting minutes, and a discussion on changing the meeting start time. General Business - Master Plan Approval Extension Request – Gateway Roundabout (50 South County Trail): The applicant, through Attorney Craven, had requested an extension of the existing master plan approval. However, a new approval had been filed and recorded, which a commissioner stated rescinded any grandfather rights and made the extension request inappropriate. The applicant subsequently withdrew the request (as indicated by the Ponte Withdrawal.pdf document on the agenda). The commission acknowledged the withdrawal and noted that the request was not appropriate. - Revised Surety Reduction – Dusty Hollow: The applicant, Adam, presented a revised bond reduction request. The reduction had been increased to account for maintenance items (leaves, silt) that had been subsequently addressed. The work is nearly finished, and the applicant expects to return soon to restore the previous bond amount. The commission voted unanimously to make a positive recommendation to the Town Council for the bond reduction. Minutes - Approval of April 5, 2022 Minutes: The commission reviewed the draft minutes. Minor corrections were suggested, including changing 'bird houses' to 'spirit houses' and changing 'right side' to 'west side' for accuracy. As amended, the minutes were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Meeting Start Time Change: A discussion was held about moving the Planning Commission meeting start time from 7:30 PM to 7:00 PM to align with other boards and provide consistency. Some members noted that it had been at 7:30 for 13 years. The commission decided to place the item on a future agenda for formal discussion and public input before making a change. Key Outcomes - The Gateway Roundabout master plan extension request was withdrawn. - A positive recommendation for the Dusty Hollow bond reduction was approved unanimously. - The April 5, 2022 minutes were approved as amended. - The commission will consider changing the meeting time to 7:00 PM at a future meeting.

The North Kingstown Town Council held a regular meeting on Monday, May 16, 2022, at 7:00 PM at the Beechwood Senior Center. The meeting covered public hearings on alcoholic beverage licenses, approval of a consent agenda with several routine items, discussion on a tide gauge suggestion and furniture funding, reports from the Town Manager and Finance Director, and setting the homestead exemption for the upcoming fiscal year. A lawsuit regarding the Wickford Elementary School redevelopment was also noted. Public Hearings - Item 4: Class B-Full Alcoholic Beverage License (new) for Little Rhody LLC, dba Jiggers South, 640 Boston Neck Road. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony, and the license was approved unanimously. - Item 5: Class B-Full Alcoholic Beverage License and Victualling License (temporary expansion of premises) for West Passage Brewing Company LLC, dba West Passage Brewing Company, 7835 Post Road. The public hearing was opened and closed with no testimony, and the license was approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Items 7 through 33 were approved as a block with the exception of items 10 and 20, which were removed for separate discussion by Councilman McKay. The consent agenda included approval of minutes, donations, grants, purchases, contracts, licenses, and other routine matters. Public Comments - Council President Mancini congratulated Wickford Middle School students Sadie McCann and Juliana Williams for being among 20 winners of the Rhode Island short story competition (out of 175 submissions). No other public comments were made. Discussion Items - Item 10 – Wickford Waterfront Improvement Project / Tide Gauge Suggestion: Councilman McKay proposed installing a visible tide gauge (e.g., a pole or totem) in Wickford Harbor to provide real-time visual data on high water levels, arguing it would help verify claims about sea-level rise and protect property values. He initially suggested it be part of the BETA Group contract but later agreed to pursue it separately. The council approved the contract extension for BETA Group ($125,555.00) with the understanding that the tide gauge idea would be explored independently. - Item 20 – Furniture Purchase for 80 Boston Neck Road: Councilman McKay asked why the $87,541.82 purchase for furniture was being funded through borrowed bond proceeds rather than from the reserve fund. Town Manager and Finance Director explained the money had already been borrowed and cannot be repaid for five years. The purchase was approved. - Wickford Elementary School Lawsuit: Councilman McKay and others expressed disappointment over a lawsuit filed by a group of residents to block the redevelopment of Wickford Elementary School. The lawsuit challenges a 5-0 Zoning Board decision. Council members noted the project has been in development for 10 years and urged public support. Town Manager’s Report (Item 34) - Memorial Day commemoration on May 30: wreath laying at 9 AM, parade at 10 AM, ceremonies at 11 AM, followed by a hot dog roast. - Wickford nominated for USA Today’s 2022 Best Historic Small Town Travel Award; currently in 3rd place (voting ends June 6). - Homestead exemption applications for next year will be accepted after current tax bills are sent (deadline missed by some residents). - Hired Ronian Associates for schematic design of improvements at 100 Fairway Drive (municipal office building). - Possible one-year acceleration of motor vehicle tax phase-out; monitoring state budget. - Library renovations on schedule, no closure expected; open house planned for mid-to-late June. - New trash/recycling receptacles placed in Wickford and Wilson Park; renovated restrooms now open; concession stand at town beach expected by Memorial Day. Finance Director’s Report (Item 35) - Finance Director Jim Lathrop corrected a typo: tangible property projection should be $3.2 million (not $3.0 million), raising projected surplus to about $1.1 million. - Current bond rate for recent borrowing is approximately 2% (20-year money). - Energy contracts expire in December; current rate is 7 cents/kWh versus National Grid’s recent winter rate of 26 cents; renegotiation underway. - Motor vehicle tax elimination would save $12,000 annually in postage. - New finance team member Tim McDavitt hired. Key Outcomes - Public hearings on items 4 and 5: Approved unanimously. - Consent agenda (items 7-33, except 10 and 20): Approved unanimously. - Item 10 – BETA Group contract extension: Approved, with direction to explore a separate tide gauge project. - Item 20 – Furniture purchase: Approved. - Item 36 – Homestead Exemption: Set at 5% for Fiscal Year 2022/2023, as recommended by the Town Manager. The tax rates will be set at the June meeting; anticipated residential rate: $14.06 per thousand (down from $17.50), commercial: $15.96 per thousand, tangible: $17.50 per thousand, motor vehicles pending state action. Approved unanimously. - Correspondence: Noted and received.