Public Meetings - North Kingstown, Rhode Island

On April 13, 2026, the North Kingstown Town Council held a public hearing at Town Hall Council Chambers, 80 Boston Neck Road, beginning at 6:00 PM, on the preliminary adopted budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027. Notice was posted on the Secretary of State's website under RIGL 42-46-6(c). The agenda divided the hearing into an all-funds municipal portion at 6:00 PM and a School Fund portion at 7:00 PM. Town Manager Ralph Mullis presented the municipal budget; the School Committee presented the school budget after the committee arrived around 7:03 PM due to a scheduling conflict. The council scheduled final budget deliberation for April 27 at the high school. Public Hearing - Municipal Budget - Town Manager Ralph Mullis presented the $130+ million preliminary budget and highlighted the municipal fund's components. The 16 administrative budgets total $11,749,408, slightly below FY26. Public safety totals $24,986,990, up 5.39%, driven almost entirely by police and fire personnel and benefit costs. Public works totals $5,787,326, up 1.1%. Debt service increases 5.71% as school bond and public safety complex bond payments begin; the projected total debt payment exceeds $12 million and adds an estimated $1.27 to the tax rate over the first two years. The library appropriation is up 3%. The originally recommended school appropriation was $66,021,823, up 3.5%. - The manager reported the residential tax rate would remain unchanged at $11.04 for the third consecutive year, with $4.2 million in tax relief through exemptions. OPEB is 25% funded, up from 4.3% in 2018. More than $1.5 million in investment revenue is projected for the fiscal year. The undesignated surplus is $19.1 million, just above the council's 15% spending-down threshold, so the budget begins spending it down. Enterprise funds are self-sufficient and have zero impact on the tax rate. - Addressing new challenges, the manager said health-care premiums rose 17.1%, creating a $399,820 gap on the town side and a $470,000 gap on the school side. The school department faced a total $753,834 gap because the preliminary appropriation was $283,834 below its request. The school identified $400,000 in reductions, leaving a net gap of $353,834. The manager proposed revising the remote net-metering agreement to transfer $219,113 in energy savings to the school, plus $134,721 in additional school appropriation, for a total school allocation of $66,156,544, a 3.7% increase. To close the combined town-side gap of $753,656, the manager recommended an estimated, not-to-exceed 2% commercial tax-rate increase to $15.09, while keeping the residential rate at $11.04. Public Comments & Testimony - Richard Welch asked where designated cash is kept, said surplus town real estate should be sold so properties can pay taxes, and suggested the council should oversee school surplus spending and ratify all labor agreements. He also mentioned potential environmental legal costs related to Quonset Davisville. - Ricky Thompson of 194 Plain Road praised the no-tax-increase effort and asked about the Blue Cross Trust Fund, total cash across all funds, whether last year's revaluation was effectively a tax increase, and how remote net metering works. The finance director said total cash across all funds averages between $48 million and $60 million depending on tax collection timing, including bond and ARPA funds. The Blue Cross Trust Fund was depleted in FY2026-2027. - Pam Panero asked how school-zone speed-camera revenue is budgeted and whether the bond-debt chart used the 35% state reimbursement on the full bond amount. The manager said speed-camera revenue is restricted to public safety and the debt chart used the actual eligible reimbursement rate, not 35% of the entire bond. - A school committee member, Megan Riley of 15 Eden Court, asked whether the revised net-metering credit for the school would be formalized in an MOU/MOA and whether it would recur annually. The manager said the goal is to formalize it and make the savings recurring. - Sarah Lee Norton of 58 West Cove Drive recommended holding the school budget as a separate public hearing and requested a detailed salary-and-benefits reconciliation showing starting amounts, budgeted amounts, current head count, year-to-date spending, and substitute commitments. - Robert Jones of 63 Pheasant Run recommended a joint town-school advisory committee to explore containing health-care costs outside contract negotiations, and noted an outdated meeting-notice sign at Town Hall that could confuse residents. School Fund Presentation - The School Committee presented its FY2026-2027 school fund budget. Superintendent Dr. Duva was absent due to a family emergency. Revenue assumptions included state aid contingent on the governor's proposed budget, no reappropriation of fund balance, and other revenue sources including tuition, investment earnings, rental income, and Medicaid indirect costs. - Expenditure drivers included contractual 2% ESP salary increases, ongoing NEA-K teacher negotiations, a 17.1% health and dental premium increase, moving student Chromebook purchases into the operating budget, and changes in out-of-district tuition and charter school costs. The committee's slide showed a town appropriation request of $66,155,437, described as a 3.7% increase; this conflicts slightly with the town manager's stated total of $66,156,544. - Committee members praised the collaboration between the town and school administrations in managing the unexpected health-care cost increases. Key Outcomes - The hearing was informational; no final budget vote was taken. The council will deliberate and pass the FY2026-2027 budget at its April 27 meeting at the high school. - The manager recommended a commercial tax-rate increase of no more than 2%, to $15.09, while keeping the residential rate at $11.04, and an additional $134,721 school appropriation funded partly by revised net-metering savings. - The council president praised the creativity and collaboration shown by the town and school administrations. After no further business, the council adjourned by unanimous voice vote on a motion and second.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission held a regular meeting on April 7, 2026, at 6:30 PM at Town Hall. The primary actions included approval of the preliminary plan for a 34-unit condominium project (Schoolhouse Condominiums at Academy Cove) and a related minor subdivision, and a continued public hearing for a proposed mini-storage facility on Ten Rod Road, where the applicant was asked to revise the plan to eliminate a dimensional variance request. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Murnick (177 Rodman Lane): Expressed concern about the visual impact, construction noise, light pollution, stormwater runoff, and potential pests from the proposed mini-storage facility. Requested sufficient landscaping and screening. - David Darlington (24 Rodman Lane): Questioned the accuracy of site plan depictions, the placement of driveway access, potential future use for car storage with bathroom facilities, and hours of operation. Expressed concern about headlights and noise. - Peter Hayes (161 Rodman Lane): Asked about building setbacks, the 25-foot landscape buffer, fencing, and specific plantings. Questioned building height relative to Rodman Lane and signage. - Paulette C. Slack (192 Rodman Lane): Objected due to past clearing of mature trees that eliminated her property's buffer. Asked for immediate tall landscaping. Discussion Items - 3a & 3b: Schoolhouse Condominiums and Minor Subdivision – The commission reviewed a draft decision for the preliminary plan of a 34-unit (reduced from 39) major land development project at 99 Phillips Street, involving adaptive reuse of a historic school building. Correspondence from Amy Saunder raised concerns about parking, pathways, and CRMC modifications, but the commission concluded these had been fully addressed at the prior public hearing. After reading findings of fact and 20 conditions, the commission unanimously approved the preliminary plan and the related 3-lot minor subdivision (reconfiguring lot lines for the schoolhouse, library, and playground). - 3c & 3d: 915 Ten Rod Road Mini-Storage Facility – Staff presented the unified development review for three 16,000 sq. ft. mini-storage buildings (48 units total) on a 5.14-acre parcel in the General Business zone, also within Groundwater Recharge and Scenic overlay districts. The applicant requested a dimensional variance to exceed the maximum 50,000 sq. ft. ground floor area (proposed total 51,927 sq. ft. including existing structures). Commissioners expressed concern that the variance was self-created (could remove existing barns to meet the limit) and indicated they could not support granting relief. The applicant’s engineer and owner (Richard Storti) stated they could demolish two existing barns to bring the total under 50,000 sq. ft., removing the need for a variance. Additional discussion covered stormwater management, lighting, landscaping buffers, hours of operation, and enforcement of storage-only use. - Administrative Actions Report – No items. - Approval of Minutes – The minutes of March 17, 2026 were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Schoolhouse Condominiums Preliminary Plan (3a): Approved unanimously (voice vote) with 20 conditions, including provision of 4 low-to-moderate income units (10% of total), coordination with CRMC, preservation easement for stone wall, and shared parking arrangements. - Minor Subdivision (3b): Approved unanimously (voice vote), creating three lots for the schoolhouse, playground, and library uses. - 915 Ten Rod Road Mini-Storage (3c/3d): Public hearing continued to May 5, 2026, date certain. The applicant was directed to return with a revised plan that either eliminates the dimensional variance (by removing existing barns) or provides further justification. Staff will also clarify groundwater overlay restrictions on fuel storage and tenant change procedures.

The North Kingstown Town Council held a special meeting on March 31, 2026, at a school facility to address community concerns about three Quonset-area industrial developments: Bitumar asphalt operations, a proposed battery storage facility near the Quonset golf course, and a proposed QSS Biosolids sewage sludge pyrolysis facility in West Davisville. Council President Mancini opened by stating that the council's shared purpose was protecting the health and safety of North Kingstown residents. The meeting included the full council, Town Manager Ralph Mollis, Town Solicitor James Callahan, state Senator DiMario, Representatives Casimiro, Craven, and Finkelman, and over 300 residents. Public Comments & Testimony - Vanessa Mascaro called for a full and independent investigation starting at the governor's office and said Quonset should not become a dumping ground for the region's dirtiest industries. - Former State Senator Jim Sheehan said this was not NIMBYism, cited past successful community fights against a proposed nuclear plant, a regional incinerator, and a mega container port, and urged the town to act quickly and strategically. - Richard Welch criticized the lack of transparency, questioned whether the replacement fire station on the Quonset base would preserve maintenance and town records functions, and called for council attendance at QDC meetings. - John Dowler noted the proposed site sits in the Hunt River aquifer watershed recharge area and cited failed pyrolysis projects in Sanford, Maine, and Linden, New Jersey; he recommended retaining Earthjustice. - Teacher Kayla Van Gordon cited health risks from particulate matter, PFAS, heavy metals, and odors, especially for children and families near the proposed site. - Jenna Steele, who said she has multiple sclerosis and cancer, described risks from PM2.5, hydrogen fluoride from battery fires, and PFAS, and asked officials to prioritize vulnerable residents. - Sean Taylor said he would file a formal petition with DEM for a declaratory ruling challenging the minor source air permit for QSS Biosolids, alleging factual omissions and attempts to avoid emissions regulations, and he urged the town to secure legal standing and intervene. - Jim Naughton recounted the 1990s fight against a Quonset incinerator and his Camp Lejeune water contamination experience, warning that children and grandchildren could suffer future harm. - Joe Tectara called for restructuring the QDC board so North Kingstown and neighboring communities have more voting seats. - Brian Cooper, a plumber, opposed the sludge plant based on odor and wind patterns, saying surrounding homes and apartments would be affected. - Randy Wheatman, the current North Kingstown representative on the QDC board, said he would have voted against the QSS approval, called for an emergency response plan, and urged more than two North Kingstown seats on the board. - Retired EPA toxicologist Walter Berry called the sludge proposal a wicked problem, said unproven technology keeps him up at night, and warned against making the town a test case. - Tom Seguris spoke in support of the battery storage facility, saying lithium iron phosphate technology is safer than other lithium-ion chemistries and that the project supports offshore wind and decarbonization. - Other residents raised concerns about the shared public water supply, property values, the dormant Quonset Community Advisory Committee, Quonset's Superfund history, and the need for better public notification. - Martin Cook, an eighth-grade student at Davisville Middle School, asked how the plant would affect student health and noted that several schools are near the proposed site. Discussion Items - Bitumar asphalt facility: The council reviewed complaints received in the prior 24–48 hours, with Councilman Mancini saying he smelled asphalt on International Drive. Senator DiMario reported that DEM committed to a full compliance inspection. Representative Casimiro said she visited Bitumar at noon that day, the odor was prevalent, and the facility was fully operational. DEM is also researching an odor-reducing additive used at a Providence asphalt plant. Bitumar confirmed a community forum in North Kingstown on April 30, 2026. - Battery storage facility: The facility was approved through a public process, is located away from residences, and was approved by the State Fire Marshal's Office. Councilman Mancini said it is designed with small insulated compartments and is needed for grid stability and affordable energy. Senator DiMario described battery storage as a proven reliability tool that can reduce reliance on fossil fuels during peak demand. One state legislator said initial concern was eased by fire service sign-off. - QSS Biosolids pyrolysis facility: Town Manager Mollis read a letter from Governor McKee urging QSS Biosolids, the Narragansett Bay Commission, QDC, and town officials to provide transparency through public meetings with qualified experts. Mollis said he asked for a halt to the project, ideally a permanent halt, until public information is shared. Representative Casimiro said the Speaker of the House's study commission on biosolids would seek a moratorium until at least January 2027; she said she had drafted legislation to stop the project and requested an oversight hearing on QDC. Senator DiMario provided historical context on past opposition to pyrolysis facilities and said current law needs changes to prevent projects from advancing without public knowledge. The town manager said he would meet with the town managers of Jamestown and East Greenwich. - QDC transparency issues: Councilman McCoy acknowledged that the QSS biosolids approval occurred during the public session of the November 19, 2024 QDC board meeting, but details had been discussed in executive session. He said he, Larry Mandel, and Adam Lupino voted against the approval but were outvoted. Town Manager Mollis confirmed, after conversations with QDC and the Secretary of Commerce, that a lease has not been executed. Resident Kevin Hoyle described a June 2025 QDC governance change giving senior staff sole discretion over leases of five years or less without board approval, which he said stripped board powers and reduced transparency. Key Outcomes - The council adopted by voice vote, with no audible opposition, a resolution requesting that the QDC rescind its November 19, 2024 vote/approval authorizing a ground lease with QSS Biosolids LLC until public hearings are held; the motion was amended to reference the board's approval rather than an unexecuted lease. - The council authorized the town manager to look into retaining expert environmental legal counsel, including possibly a nonprofit organization; the motion passed by voice vote. - Councilman Matt McCoy resigned from his appointed position as North Kingstown's representative on the QDC Board of Directors and accepted responsibility for not fully informing the council and public; a replacement will be appointed. - Bitumar's North Kingstown community forum was confirmed for April 30, 2026. - The council will add Quonset as a regular agenda item; the town manager will meet with Jamestown and East Greenwich town managers, respond to the governor's letter, and pursue a one-time informational mailing or insert with tax or water bills. - DEM is expected to post a public website with permit status, enforcement actions, and communications regarding the biosolids and asphalt facilities.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, March 23, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting was dominated by public concern over odors and proposed industrial facilities at Quonset Point, including the Bitumar asphalt plant and a proposed sewage sludge pyrolysis facility by QSS Biosolids LLC. The council also handled routine consent agenda items, received reports from the town manager and finance director, and discussed a letter to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM) regarding odor complaints. Consent Calendar - Items 5-15 were approved unanimously, except for Item 8 (donation of two trees and a bench by HistWick), which was removed for separate discussion and approved. The consent agenda included approval of minutes, tax abatements, donations, authorizations, bids, purchases, and exhibition licenses for ECO-Land Art Project events. Public Comments & Testimony - Vanessa Mascaro (21 Parkside Way) criticized the vague wording of the DEM letter agenda item, noting that Bitumar was previously named as a specific source. She urged the council to be proactive and transparent, and referenced a state bill to ban sludge pyrolysis. - John Dower (Reynolds Farm) reported six years of asphalt odors from the Meosy/Peckham plant, expressed concern about two additional proposed facilities, and warned of potential national environmental group involvement. - Alyssa Knapp (24 Parkside Way) expressed concern for her young children's health and environment. - Sean Conroy (67 Longfellow Drive) questioned Councilor McCoy's role with J2 Research and Analysis LLC, suggesting a conflict of interest, and urged council support for residents over QDC. - Sean Taylor (225 Sewins Drive) detailed technical concerns about the QSS Biosolids incinerator, citing failures in Woonsocket's similar facility. He urged the council to sponsor a resolution opposing the air permit or request a public hearing. - Kim Gallman (25 Fairfield Road) shared her personal story of undergoing chemotherapy and expressed distress over the proposed facilities. - Joe Texara (200 Delano Drive) named three problems: the asphalt plant, the sludge incinerator, and a proposed lithium-ion battery storage facility. He called the town's direction a "dump" and requested a meeting with state legislators. - Holly Quinn (109 Clearview Drive) demanded transparency, criticized the council for not informing the public about QDC projects, and noted that information often comes after decisions are made. - Josh Olson (103 Oak Tree Drive) agreed with previous speakers and noted the West Davisville area is becoming a "giant dump." - Jason Bergenstock (5 Woodland Drive) opposed the sludge facility, citing the applicant's own documents that admit emissions of hydrogen sulfide and other gases. He requested independent monitoring, public reporting, and enforceable shutdown triggers. - Larry Mandel (54 Rome Street), a former QDC board member, explained that he and Councilor McCoy voted against the Global Soil Solutions lease in November 2024, but were outvoted 5-3. He advocated for holding the company accountable and supporting DEM efforts. - Michael Laravy Benoit (145 Old Baptist Road) complained about dust and noise from the existing Davisville dump and opposed another 24-hour waste facility. - Mark (2 Iron Horse Terrace) described moving from Nebraska to escape feedlot odors and feared similar experience in North Kingstown. - Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane), a former council member, criticized DEM's effectiveness, urged the council to fight for residents, and referenced a past court victory regarding public speak rights. - Sharon Daniels (263 Old Baptist Road) reported asphalt odors in her home at night, even in winter, and expressed concern about property values. - Nicholas Daniels (310 Newcombe Road) urged parents to bring their children to meetings and called for transparent data monitoring. - Ricky Thompson (194 Plain Road) requested the reinstatement of regular QDC reports to the town council, stating that residents were uninformed. - James Sheehan (40 Blueberry Lane), a former state senator, recalled successful opposition to a trash incinerator and container port, and urged the council to "lawyer up" or leverage QDC to stop the sludge facility. - Dick Pastor (121 Suffolk Drive), a former EPA employee and planning board chair, warned that 90% removal efficiency is insufficient for toxic compounds, and that the system's failure mode would expose residents to carcinogens. - Cam Panero (710 Silicon Road) endorsed transparency and suggested including QDC updates in the town email newsletter. - Nicole Morel (40 Bel Air Drive) reminded the council of their duty to protect the community from health hazards, including groundwater contamination. - Elizabeth O'Brien (80 Clearview Drive) lamented learning about projects late and asked why the town chooses toxic businesses over cleaner options. - Glenn Lampinski (103 Love Lane) expressed his dream of quiet living in North Kingstown and pleaded with the council not to let it become a nightmare. - Mary Shaw (159 Candlewood Drive) described her decade-long battle with dust from QDC, her husband's death from COPD and cancer, and her ongoing legal fight against the Coastal Council's dredging plan. - Brian Votolato (62 Glenwood Drive), co-chair of the Parades Committee, requested the appointment of Beth Hill Ross as town council liaison, which was not formally approved but discussed. Discussion Items - Town Manager's Report: Covered progress on school and public safety bond projects, noting cost estimates exceeding $64 million for the latter. Reported on the Wickford Elementary School condominium projects receiving preliminary approval from the Planning Commission. Announced the opening of Devil's Foot Road Bridge, paving of Phillips Street, and plans for a new Fire Station 6 within the Quonset Business Park, with a need for a new mechanics division building. Also noted the town's recognition as a Tree City USA and upcoming recreation events. - Finance Director's Report (presented by Town Manager): Year-to-date revenues are approximately $1 million over budget, expenditures about $500,000 over, resulting in a modest surplus. Tax collections at 76%, consistent with prior years. No structural concerns identified. - Appointment of Town Council Liaison to Parades Committee: Discussion revealed that the council no longer appoints formal liaisons, but Councilor Beth Hill Ross agreed to attend meetings and report back informally. - Letter to RIDEM Regarding Odor Concerns: Council voted to authorize the town solicitor to send a letter to DEM requesting investigation of odor sources in the Quonset/Davisville area, incorporating resident concerns about Bitumar. The letter will not name a specific source without evidence but will note citizen reports. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 5-7, 9-15) approved unanimously. Item 8 (HistWick donation) approved separately. - DEM Letter: Motion to authorize a letter from the town solicitor to RIDEM, including citizen concerns, passed unanimously. - Parades Committee Liaison: No formal appointment; Councilor Hill Ross will attend meetings and report back. - Public Comment: No formal votes on the sludge facility or Bitumar; council committed to researching facts and representing citizens. - Meeting adjourned after correspondence review.

The Planning Commission met on March 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Town Hall to consider four major land development and subdivision applications, including the redevelopment of the former Wickford Elementary School into a 34-unit rental/condominium project and an 18-unit condominium project at the Olde Theatre. The meeting opened with a moment of silence for the passing of Town Clerk Jeannette Elwood. Consent Calendar - Unanimous Approval of Duck Cove Farm Preliminary Plan and Dimensional Variances (Agenda Item 3a): The Commission approved a 3-lot minor subdivision for the Roland P. Cardi Irrevocable Trust at 24 Duck Cove Farm. A dimensional variance to allow zero feet of lot frontage (required 20 feet) was granted. Waivers for road width (16 feet instead of 22) and stormwater peak runoff mitigation were also approved. The decision included conditions for fire department coordination, legal documents for common access, and pre-treatment for the on-site wastewater system. Vote: 5-0 (Commissioner Kerr absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Schoolhouse Condominiums (Agenda 3b): Multiple residents spoke. Curtis Fisher (104 Phillips Street) objected to a 20-car parking lot in front of the historic building, calling it "immoral" and a "travesty." Several speakers supported preserving the building but urged better design, including more shade trees, reduced front parking, and protection of the stone wall. Warwick Mitchell (101 Prospect Avenue) raised concerns about removal of 18 mature trees (only 2 preserved) and the loss of the traditional sledding hill behind the school. Amy Saunder (30 Elam Street) requested creative parking with planting islands and suggested preserving large trees. Rachel Hussey (35 Updike Avenue) questioned the long-term affordability of units if converted from rentals to condos after five years. Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane) supported the project as a long-needed tax revenue generator, noting the historic building had sat vacant for 21 years. - Olde Theatre Condominiums (Agenda 3c): Natalie Coletta asked about road repaving and sewer assessments. Matt Simonik (80 Phillips Street) requested consideration of sidewalks on the south side of Phillips Street and larger shrubs for privacy. Amy Saunder asked that the two spruce trees near the cove be preserved if possible. The landscape architect explained they are in decline and would be replaced with a dense native buffer per CRMC requirements. Discussion Items - Schoolhouse Condominiums (Agenda 3b): Staff noted the unit count was reduced from 39 to 34 at the request of the Rhode Island Historic Preservation Commission. The project will use tax credits and be rentals for the first five years, after which conversion to condominiums is possible. The Commission debated requiring a public access connection to Academy Cove (originally in the RFP) but consensus was to defer to the Town Council, as the steep rear slope was not viable and a path near the library was a better option. The Commission also discussed affordable housing: 10% (4 units) at 80% AMI for rentals, with a recommendation that if converted, the same units remain at 80% AMI (rather than increasing to 120%). The Commission chose to require the applicant to return for a new hearing if conversion occurs. Parking layout and street tree waivers were discussed; the Commission asked the applicant to explore landscape islands and better screening. Conditions were added for preservation of the historic stone wall, a recorded parking easement for the playground (10 spaces), and signage. - Olde Theatre Condominiums (Agenda 3c): Staff reported the applicant has not obtained state permits (CRMC, HPC, DOT) but can submit them at final stage. The 18 units include 14 in the theater building, 2 in the existing colonial house, and 2 in a relocated garage. Parking is 10 spaces on-site with 21 shared spaces across the street at the schoolhouse. The Commission discussed affordable unit designation: two affordable units (one 1-bedroom and one 2-bedroom) should be located within the theater building. The landscape architect explained the removal of two declining spruce trees to create a CRMC-required buffer. The Commission supported the project with conditions including a letter of map amendment (LOMA) to address flood zone status, and a requirement for the applicant to return if major changes arise from state approvals. - Minor Subdivision for Town Property (Agenda 3d): The town is subdividing lots at 99 Phillips Street and 100 Boone Street to realign parcels for the library, playground, and schoolhouse development. The playground lot will remain in public ownership with a conservation restriction. No public comments were offered. Key Outcomes - Schoolhouse Condominiums: Continued to April 7, 2026, for a written decision. Conditions include: wall preservation easement, parking signage, stormwater O&M plan, landscape diversity recommendations from the Tree Warden, and a requirement for the applicant to return if converting to condos. The Commission did not require a direct trail to Academy Cove but noted the Town Council may enforce the RFP provision. - Olde Theatre Condominiums: Continued to April 21, 2026, for a written decision. Conditions include: dumpster screening, LOMA application, affordable units designated as one 1-bedroom and one 2-bedroom in the theater building, and a requirement for CRMC, HPC, and DOT approvals at final stage. - Minor Subdivision (Town Property): Continued to April 7, 2026, for a written decision. All three lots will conform to zoning; the playground lot will be unbuildable and protected by a conservation easement. - Minutes: The Commission approved the minutes of February 17, 2026, unanimously.

The Town Council met on Monday, March 16, 2026, beginning at 9:00 a.m. in the Municipal Office Building, for a full-day work session to review Town Manager Ralph's preliminary FY 2026/2027 budget with department heads, followed by public comment and adoption of the preliminary budget. The council also scheduled the public hearing for the municipal budget on April 13, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. and for the school budget at 7:00 p.m. at Town Hall Council Chambers, 80 Boston Neck Road. Work Session: Department Budget Reviews - The Town Manager opened with budget context: the municipal portion is under a 3% increase; the proposal avoids a tax increase for the third consecutive year; enterprise funds are self-sufficient; and fund balance is being used for one-time purchases, including $500,000 to avoid a tax increase. He noted OPEB funding has improved from 4.3% in 2018 to 20% funded. He warned that debt service will rise significantly when the school and public safety bonds are fully issued, with the first payment projected around $12 million and a $1.27 tax rate impact previously projected to voters. - Health care costs were a recurring theme. The Town Manager stated the budget was built using a 10% health care cost increase, but actual costs are rising 17%, leaving an estimated $331,000 town-side shortfall and roughly another $400,000 on the school side. The manager recommended not deciding the remedy immediately and instead bringing options before the April public hearing. - Council Member Page raised concerns about using fund balance because it creates a structural hole for the next year and asked about investing in renewable energy. The Town Manager responded that most fund-balance uses are one-time, remote net metering has lowered energy costs, and a $500,000 fund balance appropriation may be repeatable next year. - The Police Chief reviewed a detailed budget, noting overtime is budgeted at $300,000 and that vacancies, academy training, and related salary savings should keep the overall personnel account balanced. The department is down three officers and will send three to the next academy. Police equipment, including radios, computers, tasers, and four new vehicles, will be funded through municipal court, restricted accounts, or other one-time funding rather than the operating budget. The chief also discussed a free mental health clinician four days a week and said one School Resource Officer is budgeted; the manager and chief expressed support for seeking state funding to add middle school coverage. - The Fire Chief reviewed operations and personnel. Overtime is projected at $1 million; the Town Manager acknowledged the figure is difficult but said it was set intentionally to avoid a tax increase, with midyear monitoring and possible spending or hiring freezes. The chief reported one firefighter vacancy after a seven-year member left for Cranston, and noted 12 employees receive health care buyback. - The Library Director presented a total library request of $1,841,359, with a town appropriation of $1,531,268, a 3% increase, and state aid of $302,406. The director and trustees explained state grant aid distribution to the town's three independent libraries. Council Member McCoy expressed support for library funding and called for prioritizing future capital improvements. - The Building Official noted his department issues the second- or third-highest number of permits among Rhode Island cities and towns, and that ADU applications have increased from one or two per year to 15-20 after state law changes. - The Finance Director presented a reduced general fund budget, personnel savings from retirements, and use of restricted fund balance for employee final pay. She noted the town received a clean single audit with no findings. Debt service was also reviewed, including the use of bond anticipation notes for the school and public safety projects. - The Water Department presentation showed a total water fund budget of $7,548,688, with roughly $3.4 million transferred from the infrastructure replacement account for capital projects, including $1.9 million for Post Road water main replacement and $500,000 for Poplar Point. The director discussed a Saunderstown replacement well, leak detection via satellite scanning, and PFAS/PFOS treatment options, including a possible partnership with Kent County that could also allow future water sales to other communities. Council members raised concerns about water restrictions on new homes and whether buyers are informed. - The Sewer Fund remains in deficit, with a $25,000 rate study included; pending litigation, including the Pagoda appeal, is not reflected in revenue. The Transfer Station budget is projected to increase revenue and decrease expenses. - Recreation, Allen Harbor, and Golf enterprise funds were reviewed. Recreation reported successful town beach operations saving nearly $50,000 over the prior YMCA contract, and requested one-time items including wall ball and a grant match. Golf proposed a new cart barn and a new fleet of 75 carts under a lease/purchase, expecting to maintain a surplus. Allen Harbor is mostly level funded, with a wait list of 43 slips and 21 moorings. - School Superintendent Dr. Duva presented the school committee-approved operating budget of $86,122,031. The Town Manager proposed a town appropriation of $66,021,823, a 3.5% increase and $283,834 below the school request. The superintendent said the budget covers needed programs, including mental health staffing, but acknowledged that the 10% health care assumption and a possible $283,834 cut could require about $700,000 in reductions. Projected year-end surplus was about $600,000, less than 1% of the budget. School officials also discussed enrollment of about 3,787 students, federal restricted revenue of $2,396,250, redistricting study, and moving hockey ice time funding to the athletics gate-receipt account. Public Comments & Testimony - Megan Riley, a North Kingstown School Committee member, resident, and parent, explained her dissenting vote on the school budget. She said she could not vote yes because the committee received information late and still had unanswered questions, and she criticized the school budget process, legal fees, and lack of attention to facilities. She said the town council's budget process appears better organized and urged starting the school budget cycle earlier. Key Outcomes - The council adopted the preliminary FY 2026/2027 budget by motion, with all funds approved as recommended except for noted opposition: - General fund: $42,523,994 - Debt service fund: $6,183,256 - Allen Harbor enterprise fund: $473,167 - Golf course enterprise fund: $2,630,789 - Water fund: $7,548,688 - Municipal court fund: $320,792 - Sewer (SUA) fund: $2,302,362 - Transfer station fund: $1,357,263 - Library town appropriation: $1,531,268 - Library state aid: $302,406 - School town appropriation: $66,021,823 - School state aid: $13,374,489 - Restricted state aid for schools: $40,966 - Total preliminary budget: $144,611,263 - The school fund appropriation and the total preliminary budget each passed 4-1, with Council Member Elizabeth Hill Ross voting no. All other fund motions were approved unanimously. - The Town Manager recommended that the council treat the adopted preliminary budget as the document to be presented at the April 13 public hearing, with possible amendments to address the health care shortfall to come before final adoption in late April. - Correspondence was deferred to the next meeting, and the council adjourned.

The North Kingstown Town Council met on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting began with a moment of silence for longtime resident Donald Stone and Police Officer Brittany Dougal. The primary agenda included the introduction of the Town Manager's preliminary FY 2026-2027 budget, several second-readings of ordinance amendments, public comment, and approval of consent items. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of February 9, 2026. - Accepted a $100 donation. - Approved sole source purchase of six Taser-7s for Police Department ($19,175.72) from Axon Enterprise, Inc. - Awarded contract to Red Oak Remodeling, Inc. for library restroom renovations ($198,400) with funding from a $95,000 Champlain grant, $37,000 from the library corporation, $49,665 in state ARPA funds, and $36,575 from town capital reserves. - Authorized a Memorandum of Understanding with TANK (Transformative Action for North Kingstown) to install a Community Connection Box. - Accepted a $1,000 Safety Enhancement Grant from Rhode Island Interlocal Risk Management Trust. - Authorized application for Senator Reed FY2027 Appropriations Grant for 50 N70 portable radios and 7 mobile radios. - Approved a letter of support for Fire Chief Linacre's application to the Congressional Appropriations Committee for $2.8 million to fund an Emergency Operations Center in the new Public Safety Building. Public Hearings & Second Readings Item 5 – Public Works Fee Schedule Amendment: Second reading to amend Section 9-4. No public comment. Motion to approve passed. Item 6 – Excavation of Public Highway Permit Amendment: Second reading to amend Chapter 17, Article III. No public comment. Motion to approve passed. Item 7 – Water Department Fee Schedule Amendment: Second reading to amend Section 9-4. Resident Richard Welch spoke against raising water rates, suggesting selling more water instead. Town Manager Ralph Mollis clarified the amendment only adjusts fees for services (e.g., turn-on/off) not updated in 22 years, not water rates. No rate increase. Motion to approve passed. Item 8 – Meters Amendment: Second reading to amend Section 20-23. No public comment. Motion to approve passed. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Lowe Presty (29 Chestnut Road) spoke about inadequate snow removal of accessible parking spots in the Wickford municipal lot, specifically spots owned by private entities (Dollar Tree, Ocean State Job Lot, Randy Collins). She stated the town had not remedied the issue and that the town's response indicated they considered it not their responsibility. She urged the council to address the problem for people with disabilities. - Jennifer Lima and Maya Lima (both of 4 Hickory Drive East) spoke on behalf of TANK requesting approval for a Community Connection Box—a weather-resistant box providing free shelf-stable food, hygiene products, community resource info, and small exchanges. They emphasized low-barrier access and neighbor-to-neighbor support. The project would be maintained by volunteers. The council later authorized a Memorandum of Understanding for this (consent item 14). Discussion Items Town Manager's Preliminary Budget Presentation (FY 2026-2027): Town Manager Ralph Mollis presented the proposed budget, which reflects zero-based budgeting. Key points: - Municipal portion increase of 2.98%, debt service up 5.71%, library appropriation up 3%, school appropriation up 3.5% ($283,834 less than requested by school department). - School department comprises 61.1% of total budget. - Health care costs originally budgeted at 10% increase but now projected at 17.1%, requiring adjustments. - Using $500,000 fund balance for direct tax relief; total municipal fund balance is $21.6 million (combined with school: $30.7 million). - No tax rate increase for third consecutive year; many taxpayers will see a decrease due to increased exemptions. - Quonset Business Park contributes $8 million in direct funding. - Budget includes $750,000 for paving, funding for IT, recreation, senior services, and capital improvements. - Next steps: all-day budget session on March 16, 2026, and public hearing on April 13, 2026 at 6:00 PM. Town Manager's Report and Q&A: - School bond projects: Middle school construction to begin early 2027, roof replacements in 2026. Public safety bond: site work late summer 2026, move-in March 2028; Station 1 construction March 2028 – mid 2029. Temporary relocation of Station 1 still under discussion. - Federal earmarks for town meeting house ($620,000) and broadband/cameras ($625,000) awaiting federal funding confirmation. - Community center renovations nearing completion; municipal office building renovations ramping up. - New watering program along West Main Street in Wickford in partnership with Histwick. - Upcoming March 23 agenda: update on Bidamau asphalt plant. - Blizzard cost recovery: Over $1 million in estimated costs; applying for 75% FEMA reimbursement (75/25 split) but no guarantee due to federal budget uncertainty. Councilman McCoy questioned legal basis and noted FEMA/DHS budget not yet approved. Key Outcomes - All second-reading ordinance amendments (Items 5-8) were approved. - Consent agenda items (10-12, 14-16) approved; Item 13 (library restroom contract) and Item 17 (EOC support letter) approved after separate discussion. - Appointed Captain Donald Barrington as appraiser of dog damages (Item 19). - Meeting adjourned.

The Town Council met on Monday, March 2, 2026, at 7:00 PM in Town Hall Council Chambers. The meeting featured a presentation of the annual audit for FY2025, public comments on a range of issues, approval of a consent agenda, reports from the Town Manager and Finance Director, several appointments, and discussions on sidewalk clearing and community acceptance. Consent Calendar - Items 6–16 were approved unanimously by a single motion. These included: - Receipt of a $100 donation. - Acceptance of a resignation from the Wood-Pawcatuck Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council. - Award of bids: construction of a golf cart barn ($1,544,000) and Post Road water main replacement ($1,785,590). - Ratification of emergency water main repair ($30,976.46). - Acceptance of a Learn365 Math Matters Grant ($8,500). - Annual entertainment license renewal for town concerts. - Exhibition licenses for Wickford Village Association (Harbor Fire events) and TANK (Book Festival). - New victualling license for Firehouse Subs. - Endorsement of House Bill H-7352 and Senate Bill S-2607, the Rhode Island Civil Rights Enforcement Act. - Final bond reduction for Cottages at Weeden Farm ($142,719.57). Public Comments & Testimony - Vanessa Morasco (Parkside Way) expressed strong concern about asphalt odors from the Bitumar facility at Quonset, noting that DEM does not require an air permit. She provided maps and documents showing two locations and questioned why the QDC board (including Councilor McCoy) was not fully informed. She urged the town to take action, citing property value declines (up to 11%) and health risks. - Alyssa Knapp (Parkside Way) confirmed the odor and its extent. - Jennifer Lima (Fort Hickory Drive East) advocated for adopting an immigration protection ordinance or issuing a public statement to ensure all residents can safely access police and emergency services. She cited that immigrants make up 16.7% of Rhode Island’s labor force and 26.7% of manufacturing. She requested support for specific state bills (Protect Our Courts Act) rather than only a resolution. - Hilary Jacobs (Congdon Avenue) requested increased funding for the Arts Council from the current $19,000, calling it a strategic investment in economic vitality and community well-being. - Norman Fortin (Towa Hill Road) voiced support for the Civil Rights Enforcement Act resolution and asked how the council’s endorsement would be communicated to the General Assembly. - Nancy Sherman (Pleasant Street), chair of the Arts Council, requested a budget increase to $25,000 and specifically asked that the council cover $3,000 in police costs for Arts Council events, noting that funding had stagnated since 2018. - Lori Duffy (Haver Hill Avenue) asked for a public statement affirming that all residents, regardless of status, can safely access emergency services, emphasizing that this is a safety and moral issue. - Susan Borkew (36th Street, Shore Acres) expressed concern over noise and air pollution from Quonset, asking what the town plans to do. - Kim Rodney (26th Street, Shore Acres) complained about increasing noise and light from Quonset, especially on weekends, and said QDC responses are inadequate. She noted that QDC’s board lacks local representation beyond elected officials. - Mary Lepresti (Chestnut Road) reported that accessible parking spots in the Wickford municipal lot remained covered with snow despite a prior email to the town manager. She emphasized that this sends a message of neglect to people with disabilities. - Richard Welch (Arrow Lane) provided historical context, stating that when the Navy left Quonset, the state promised it would not become a replacement for East Providence (no tank farm, no lumber offloading). He urged the council to protect air quality and hold DEM accountable. Discussion Items - Presentation of Annual Audit (FY2025): Kyle Connors (CBIZ CPAs) reported a clean audit opinion. Key statistics: general fund unassigned balance of $21.6 million (just under 20% of operating budget); total governmental funds ending balance of $58 million (increase of $15 million from prior year, largely due to unspent bond proceeds); revenues exceeded budget by $4 million (property taxes 99.1% collected); expenditures exceeded budget by $2.7 million (public safety and capital outlay). The school department ended with $9.1 million assigned fund balance (11.4% of operating budget). Water fund operating income: $650,000; sewer fund: $438,000. Pension plans are funded at 85% (range 67–93%); OPEB plan is 25% funded. A single audit of ARPA found no noncompliance. The audit committee chair, Jeff Wadovic, highlighted the town’s 10-year financial history and noted the school pension underfunding is partly a state obligation (42%). - Town Manager’s Report: Ralph Mollis recounted the town’s response to the historic blizzard (35–36 inches of snow). Public works plowed all 150 miles of roads once by Wednesday night. School nutrition services distributed over 250 meals. The town secured additional assets from Connecticut and RIDOT. Regarding the Bitumar facility, Mollis said the town lacks permitting authority (Quonset is a quasi-state agency) but will write DEM to investigate objectionable odors under regulation 250-RICR-120-05-17. A Bitumar representative reached out, stating the company wants to rectify the situation. The letter will be on the March 23 council agenda. Councilor Page raised the possibility of involving public health experts. - Finance Director’s Report: Deb Bridge presented a YTD budget update prepared with AI assistance. She projected a surplus of approximately $542,000. Revenues are $127 million (taxes 75% collected); expenditures also $127 million. Key variances: interest income $704,000 over budget; state aid to education reduced but already accounted for by the school department; the sale of Wickford L (budgeted $300,000) delayed. Storm expenses will be monitored for FEMA reimbursement. - Sidewalk Clearing Ordinance: Councilor Beth Hill Ross initiated discussion on liability, enforcement, and communication. Town Manager Mollis outlined three options: status quo (property owners responsible, no fines); enacting a fine ordinance; or the town buying equipment and raising taxes (which he cautioned would be costly and inefficient). He noted the town already clears sidewalks near schools, crosswalks, and high pedestrian areas, but not along Post Road. Councilor Hill Ross stressed the need for better public notification and for holding state agencies (RIDOT, RIPTA) accountable. No motion was made. - Accepting Community Statement: Councilor Dr. Kim Page read a statement expressing the council’s desire for North Kingstown to be a welcoming, safe community where fear does not prevent people from accessing services, attending school, or enjoying public spaces. She cited the walk of 19 Buddhist monks as an example of unity. The council concurred with the statement; no formal vote was taken. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda (Items 6–16): Approved unanimously, including endorsement of the Rhode Island Civil Rights Enforcement Act. - Annual Audit Report: Received and filed unanimously. - CRMC Pier Application (Item 19): The council voted unanimously to file no substantive objection to CRMC application 2026-01-032. - Water Main Extensions: Approved for The Edge Development (Item 20) and Franklin Commons (Item 21), each with eight conditions. - Appointments: - Wood-Pawcatuck Wild & Scenic Rivers Stewardship Council: Janice McAleer (unanimous). - Arts Council (7 members): Edgar Arroyo, Nancy Sherman, Gail Burda, Selina Gerosa, Donna Vanderbeck, Jerry Grabowski, Roberta Belanger – approved unanimously, with charter exemption for long-serving members Sherman and Grabowski. - Conservation Commission: Kathleen Guarino and Robert Vanderslice (unanimous). - Harbor Management Commission: Kay Ho (environmental), Keith Finck (recreational boating), Ernest Wilcox (commercial fishing), Matt Collins (marina) – approved unanimously with charter exemption for Finck and Wilcox. - Information Technology Advisory Committee: Keith O’Brien (expert) and Scott Lessard (at-large) – approved; two remaining positions to be re-advertised. - Tree Warden: Jan Peter Morgan reappointed unanimously. - Veterans Day & Memorial Day Parades Committee: Alfred Boucher appointed unanimously. - Re-advertisements Needed: Asset Management Commission (no applicants), Personnel Board (no applicants), Wickford Village Design Guidelines Committee alternate position. - Bitumar Odor Issue: Town Manager will draft a letter to DEM, to be placed on the March 23 council agenda. Council will coordinate with resident Vanessa Morasco. - Sidewalk Clearing: No decision; town will improve communication about property owner responsibilities before next winter. - Accepting Community Statement: Endorsed by consensus; no formal action.

The North Kingstown Planning Commission met on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Town Hall. The meeting addressed three main items: cost estimates for the Wickford Junction Apartments (private development), a cost estimate reduction for Sanctuary Estates, and a public hearing for the Duck Cove Farm Conservation Development (a 3-lot minor subdivision). The public hearing included testimony from residents and detailed discussion on zoning variances and design waivers. The meeting concluded with approval of minutes and administrative actions. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar was used; each item was discussed individually and voted on. Public Comments & Testimony - Templeton Peck (133 Elm Drive): Expressed full support for the Duck Cove Farm project, noting he and his wife are "totally on board." He sought confirmation that the new driveway would use the existing access via Duck Cove Farm rather than Elm Drive, which was confirmed by the applicant's attorney. - William Bennett (114 Elm Drive): Also supported the project but raised concerns about Elm Drive being used for utility installation. He requested that the road be restored after construction and asked about the duration and potential access disruption. - Robert Hamlin (138 Elm Drive): Noted that the right-of-way (a gravel strip, historically a carriageway) is only 12 feet wide and single-lane. He expressed concern about overburdening this ancient right-of-way if the new home uses it regularly instead of Duck Cove Farm. - Richard Welch (8 Arrow Lane): Questioned the open space lot: who owns it, who pays taxes, and whether the reduction in taxable land would shift taxes to others. He sought assurance that the tax base would not decrease. Discussion Items 1. Cost Estimate: Wickford Junction Apartments (Phase 1 & 2) – The Planning Technician explained the private development cost estimates: Phase 1 (first three condo buildings) at $302,371.82, Phase 2 (remaining apartment lot) at $150,754.24. The motion to accept both passed unanimously. 2. Cost Estimate Reduction: Sanctuary Estates – The cost estimate was reduced to $60,495.82 (the last 10% of work remaining). The motion to recommend to the Town Council passed unanimously. 3. Public Hearing: Duck Cove Farm Conservation Development – The commission reviewed both a zoning dimensional variance (20-foot frontage reduction to zero feet) and two design waivers (road width from 18 to 16 feet, peak runoff mitigation). The applicant’s attorney, Joelle Rocha, and engineer Chris Shea presented. The fire marshal approved the 16-foot road width; stormwater waiver was justified because runoff flows to Narragansett Bay (CRMC allows a slight increase). The commission discussed conditions including CRMC permits, pretreatment for septic (Conservation Commission recommendation), and ensuring construction does not block Elm Drive access. The commission indicated general support for the variance and waivers, finding the hardship unique to the subdivision pattern and the development consistent with the comprehensive plan. Key Outcomes - Approved the Wickford Junction Apartments cost estimate for both phases ($302,371.82 and $150,754.24) (unanimous). - Approved the Sanctuary Estates cost estimate reduction to $60,495.82 (unanimous), recommending to the Town Council. - Continued the public hearing for Duck Cove Farm to the March 17, 2026, Planning Commission meeting to allow time for a written decision (unanimous). - Approved the minutes from February 3, 2026, and February 11, 2026 (site visit) with one correction (correcting "Lipsitz" spelling) and the administrative actions report (unanimous). - Adjourned the meeting.