Public Meetings - Providence, Rhode Island

A meeting of the Providence Recreation Department was held on September 29, 2025, to discuss ongoing construction at three community centers (Elmwood, Davy Lopes, and Johnson), review summer programming statistics, and outline winter programming plans. The meeting included presentations from staff, discussion of relocation strategies, and a focus on improving communication and consistency in program registration. Discussion Items - Introduction of New Acting Director: The meeting opened with the introduction of acting director Julio and director nominee How. A full presentation of their vision is expected at a future meeting. - Elmwood Community Center Update: David, Jackie, and Sean presented on the Elmwood Center. A summer program ("Business Builders") was held there, and the center is currently undergoing construction (flooring, wall modifications, intercom system) expected to be complete by late November/early December 2025. Three programming pillars were identified: health workforce development, education, and community resources. The grant requires these components for five years. The building had prior issues (roof, bathroom) that were addressed by the contractor under warranty. - Kennedy Rec Center Relocation: Kennedy Center has been relocated to Asik Hopkins due to construction. The before- and after-school programs are running smoothly, with communication through flyers and school apps. A new gymnasium and community space are planned as part of the school renovation, with completion expected by the next school year. Staff from Kennedy transitioned to the new location. - Johnson Rec Center: After-school programming is being established in partnership with William Davies School, using the Johnson gymnasium and school space. This will run at least through December. Basketball teams will use other gyms (Igliosi, Zucolo, Batistini) for home games during construction. A new gym floor renovation is planned after construction, with $80,000 allocated by council member Tony. - Davy Lopes Rec Center: Currently closed for safety reasons due to construction, with estimated reopening in a year to a year and a half. Programming has been displaced, but a partnership with Community Prep allows use of their gym every Friday. Girls' skills and drills events and a Culture Fest are being hosted at other centers. The possibility of using Elmwood temporarily once repairs are complete (December 2025) was discussed. - Summer Programming Review: Summer day camps had a 65.03% attendance rate in 2025, up from 62.27% in 2024 and 61.31% in 2023. The new flexible weekly registration was popular. Pool attendance averaged 174 per day at Zucolo, 165 at Igliosi, and 45 at Batistini. The department came in under budget for the summer despite extended hours for heat waves. The Mayor's Cup basketball tournament returned, and a Connecticut Sun field trip was held. The department raised $39,000 from the golf tournament. - Winter Programming Plans: Programs include a bowling league starting September 28, a youth developmental basketball league at West End (registration September 8 to October 6), Mayor's Monster Bash (October 28), Turkey Giveaway (November 24), Holiday Free Throw Competition, Angel Tree event, and rec league basketball (starting January 2026). Discussion emphasized the need for consistent citywide communication and registration dates for basketball, and a policy to avoid turning away interested players by creating additional teams or using volunteers. Key Outcomes - The acting director and director nominee will provide a full presentation on their vision at the next meeting. - Elmwood Community Center repairs are on track for completion by end of 2025, after which it may serve as a temporary home for Davy Lopes programs. - The recreation department will work on improving communication and consistency for basketball registration, aiming for a standard start date (e.g., October 1) and electronic registration via Rec Desk. - The department will explore fielding Providence teams in the Rhode Island Basketball Association and potentially using PC's Alumni Hall for championship games. - The meeting was adjourned by motion.

The Special Committee on Environment Resiliency met on September 24, 2025, to discuss two ordinance amendments: one phasing out gas-powered leaf blowers and another regarding utility permits. The committee voted to approve the leaf blower ordinance with amendments and continued the utility permit ordinance to a future meeting. Public comments were heard on both items. Public Comments & Testimony - Darryl (Verizon representative) spoke on the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 23 (Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places). He stated that many practices in the ordinance, such as detailed scheduling and notification, are already standard for Verizon, but some proposed requirements would create significant operational changes and unintended consequences. He respectfully requested that the committee review any changes to the current framework to ensure operational feasibility. - Andrew (self-identified as a resident) began comments on the leaf blower ordinance but quickly diverged into criticizing the city's transportation decisions, specifically about bridge replacement and environmental impact. He was reminded by the chair that public comment should be limited to agenda items and was eventually cut off. Discussion Items - Ordinance amendment to Chapter 12 (Health and Sanitation) – Gas-powered leaf blowers - Chair Anderball (or Councilmember) introduced the ordinance and described key amendments made after working with advocates and landscapers: clarified definition to only internal combustion engines using gas/liquid fuels; removed leaf vacuums and other devices; phased out use starting in 2027 with gas leaf blowers allowed only during fall (specific dates) to accommodate landscaper concerns about electric equipment power; fines placed on property owners, not businesses; noted changes to state rebate program (extended, expanded eligibility to municipalities and nonprofits). y - Chair emphasized commitment to phasing out gas leaf blowers due to environmental and health concerns, while trying not to harm small businesses. - Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the chair's due diligence and support for the ordinance as amended. - A councilmember asked about state program changes; chair explained the program was under subscribed but was extended and rules relaxed to make it easier for businesses to access. - A technical error was noted: the date in one section said January 1, 2028, but intended January 1, 2027. A motion to amend to 2027 passed unanimously. - Ordinance amendment to Chapter 23 (Streets, Sidewalks, and Public Places) – Utility permits (Verizon) - Chair requested a motion to continue the item because additional amendments were being worked on based on late conversations with stakeholders. The motion was made, seconded, and passed. The item will be taken up at the October meeting. Key Outcomes - Leaf blower ordinance (item 1) : Approved unanimously as amended (including the date correction to January 1, 2027). The phase-out begins in 2027, allowing gas leaf blower use only during fall months, with fines on property owners. - Utility permit ordinance (item 2) : Continued to the October meeting for further amendments and discussion.

The Committee on Finance of the Providence City Council met on Tuesday, September 23, 2025, to consider the appointment of a new director of recreation, a stage two application for school capital projects, and a bond issuance for property acquisitions. All agenda items were approved, and two items were continued. Agenda Amendment and Order of Business - Motion to amend agenda: The committee voted to add the "Mile of History Project" to the agenda solely for the purpose of scheduling a public hearing. Motion carried. - Motion to take item out of order: The committee voted to hear Item 5 (appointment of director of recreation) first. Motion carried. Discussion Items Appointment of Director of Recreation (Item 5) - Nominee: Sean Hawley, proposed by Mayor Brett Smiley for the position of Director of the Department of Recreation. - Presentation: Hawley outlined his background, including degrees from Providence College and Catholic University School of Law, experience as a sports agent, professor at Johnson & Wales and Providence College, and current role as Administrator for the Equal Opportunity Office for the State of Rhode Island. He emphasized the importance of recreation centers as community hubs and his vision for youth empowerment, diversity, safety, and career development. - Questions: Councilmembers questioned Hawley about short tenures at previous positions, allegations of "double dipping" (working two city jobs simultaneously), and his continued teaching commitments. Hawley explained that one position led to another, denied cheating, stated he left one role due to communication discrepancies, and confirmed he teaches one evening course per semester but would reevaluate after the semester. - Support: Councilmembers expressed approval of Hawley's resume and commitment. One councilmember noted the importance of recreation centers and praised the mayor's selection. - Vote: Motion to approve made by Councilman Taylor, seconded by Councilman Sanchez. All in favor, none opposed. Motion carried. Hawley will go to the full council for final approval. Stage Two Application for School Capital Projects (Item 1) - Presenters: Courtney (Director of Program Management, Downs Construction), Joe (Facilities, PPSD), Kevin Dion (PPSD), and others. - Purpose: To submit a stage two application to the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) for school housing aid reimbursement for capital projects not included in Phases 3 and 4. This would allow projects to be eligible for up to 91% reimbursement. - Funding details: The application seeks eligibility for $80 million in projects with up to $67.3 million in state reimbursement. The Capital Revolving Fund currently has $6.3 million, with additional deposits of $5 million in FY2027 and FY2029. The city commits no new funds; the resolution authorizes reimbursement. - Projects included: District-wide capital improvements for 17 schools (8 elementary, 2 middle, 7 high), supplemental funding for Cazarian Elementary (new gym connection), and $9.5 million for Times2 Academy improvements (self-funded, city acts as pass-through). - Discussion: Councilmembers asked about reimbursement rates (blended average 84.7%), the need for $10 million MOA vs. available $6.3 million (flexibility for emergencies), decision-making process for prioritizing projects (based on PPSD five-year plan and input from principals), middle school funding (only $5M allocated, explained by fewer needs and older elementary schools), and concerns that schools not in Phase 4 could be closed due to enrollment declines and charter expansion. Presenters clarified that no closure decisions have been made, and the revolving fund provides flexibility if enrollment drops. - Vote: Motion to approve made by Councilman Taylor, seconded by Councilwoman Sanchez. All in favor. Motion carried. Bond Issuance for Property Acquisition (Item 2) - Presenters: Sarah (CFO), Larry (bond counsel), and Hilltop Securities (financial advisor). - Proposal: Issue $25 million in bonds through the Providence Public Building Authority (PPBA) to acquire two properties: 444 Westminster Street (the Dorley Building) for $18.5 million, and 475 Valley Street (Waterfire Arts Center) for $3.75 million. Remaining funds cover closing costs, borrowing costs, and a capital reserve for the Dorley Building. - Rationale: - 444 Westminster: The city currently leases the building at $1.5M/year in rent, escalating at 3% or CPI (historically up to 8%). The lease expires in 2036 with no purchase option. By buying, the city saves a minimum of $7.5M over 20 years, moves cost from general revenue to debt service, and can make strategic improvements. The seller's appraisal was $23M (considering the lease); the city's appraisal was $11M. - 475 Valley Street: The city would purchase and lease back to Waterfire, providing financial stability to the nonprofit. Waterfire will cover operating costs; the city pays $336K/year in debt service. The city's appraisal was $6M (vs. Waterfire's $3.75M). - Bond structure: 20-year term, with interest-only payments for the first two years. All-in cost estimated at 4.71% based on market conditions. Expected to close by October 31, 2025, after full council approval on October 2. - Discussion: Councilmembers raised concerns about the optics of a bond after raising taxes, but CFO clarified this is a substitution of rental payments with no net increase in city spending. Questions were asked about appraisal differences, bond capacity, carbon neutral requirements, and the future of Waterfire funding. Council expressed support after explanations. - Vote: Motion to approve made by Councilman Grace, seconded by Councilman Taylor. All in favor. Motion carried. The resolution goes to the full council. Key Outcomes - Appointment of Sean Hawley: Approved by committee; moves to full council. - Stage Two Application: Approved; the city will submit to RIDE. - Bond Issuance: Approved; full council vote scheduled for October 2, 2025. - Continuation: Items 3 and 4 were continued to a future meeting.

The Providence Board of Contracts and Supply met on Monday, September 22, 2025, to open bids, refer them to the city's office, approve advertisements, and vote on 19 agenda items. The meeting was chaired by Chairwoman Ryan and included roll call votes, bid referrals, and re-advertisements of two items. Bid Openings - Item 1: Appraisal services for defensive litigation (contract expires December 31, 2026, with two one-year options). One bid from Peter M. Scotty and Associates (unit price). - Item 2: Department of Housing and Human Services – post-partum care for equitable maternal health outcomes (one-year contract with two one-year options). This item will be re-advertised. - Item 3: Department of Parks – fall field improvements at multiple parks. Three bids received. - Item 4: Department of Public Works – lease land for sodium floor and storage. No bids received; item to be re-advertised. - Item 5: Department of Public Works – suppliers of snow/ice control for the 2025-2026 winter season. Two bids received; item remains on the agenda until further notice. - Item 6: Water Supply Board – two dual-wheel four-by-four platform trucks. Two bids received: Tasca Automotive Group ($27,000) and Liberty Chevrolet ($212,260). - Item 7: Water Supply Board – legal services for regulatory matters (contract expires December 31, 2028, with two one-year options). One bid from Accord Siemens Sharon and Mellet (unit price). Key Outcomes - Bid Referral: A motion to refer all opened bids to the city's office was made by Director Bellini, seconded by Director Richards, and passed unanimously. - Advertisements Approved: The board approved the advertisements in Section C and authorized re-advertising of Items 2 and 4 from Section B. Motion by Director Delgado, seconded by Director Richards; passed unanimously. - Section A Items (1–19) Approved on Roll Call: 9 ayes, 1 nay, 2 absent (Councilman Gonzalves and Tyrell Stevens absent; the nay vote was not individually identified). - Minutes Approved: The board unanimously approved the minutes from the September 8, 2025 meeting without corrections. - Adjournment: Motion by Director Richards, seconded by Director Coveto; meeting adjourned.

The Providence City Council met on September 18, 2025, to receive the final report of the Housing Crisis Task Force, approve multiple legislative items on first passage, and hear a personal expression on Hispanic Heritage Month. The meeting began after 10:25 PM (based on the timestamp) and included roll call votes on items 10-24. Housing Crisis Task Force Report (Item 9) Councilwoman Harris, Chair of the Housing Task Force, presented the committee's report, which she described as a "menu" of recommendations rather than a binding ordinance. She emphasized that the report was based on two years of data collection and community input, and urged council members to study it and engage their neighborhoods. The report was the result of work started in 2023 under council President Miller. Councilman Rayas echoed support, calling the report a "blueprint" and "GPS" to guide council action. He stressed the importance of keeping long-term residents housed and preventing displacement by faceless developers. The motion to receive the report passed unanimously. Legislative Approvals - Items 10-24 (First Passage): A motion to approve items 10 through 24 on first passage was seconded and passed by a roll call vote of 12 ayes, with two absent (Councilwoman Graves, Councilman Taylor). The motion carried. - Item 25: A motion to receive and approve item 25 was seconded and passed without dissent. - Items 26-27: A motion to waive the reading and refer item 26 to claims and pending status, and note item 27 as received, was passed. - Item 28: A motion to approve item 28 was passed. Personal Expression Councilwoman Peterson delivered a heartfelt reflection on Hispanic Heritage Month, sharing the immigrant story of her family and the resilience of the Latino community. She spoke of the strength found in accents, names, and cultural identity, and affirmed that the community is here, staying, building, and thriving. She concluded with "Siempre unidos." Adjournment The meeting was adjourned in the name of Dennis Quigley from Ward 5, Adèle Thomas Jabor (mother of Judge Po Jabor), and David W. Varome.

The Providence City Council's Special Committee on Health, Opportunity, Prosperity, and Education (HOPE) held a meeting on September 17, 2025, at 6:00 PM (as implied by the opening) to discuss a resolution regarding the Gilbert Stewart/Alfred Lima School project. The resolution called for halting demolition at the Gilbert Stewart site pending receipt of outstanding documents and community engagement. Key officials from the city administration and Providence Public School District (PPSD) testified, and public comment was heard. No vote was taken on the resolution; the meeting was adjourned with a motion to continue. Discussion Items - Resolution Presentation: Council President Pro Tempore Juan M. Pichardo read the resolution, which cited repeated requests for documentation (preservation cost analysis, demolition plans, design schedules, historic preservation approvals) that the administration had not fully provided. The resolution demanded that all demolition activities at the Gilbert Stewart site halt (except for remediation and pest control) until the council and community can conduct a meaningful review, and that the administration provide all outstanding documents promptly to avoid jeopardizing state reimbursement. - Testimony from City and PPSD Officials: - Courtney Hawkins (Chief Operating Officer) stated that all requested information has been submitted except for final designs, which await community engagement. She noted that a community meeting for design input is pending and the administration is ready to proceed with or without council coordination. - Dr. Carino (PPSD representative) presented a fact sheet with history and financial implications. He emphasized that the city council unanimously approved the new Gilbert Stewart project on September 13, 2023, and the contract on May 29, 2024. The Providence School Building Committee has held 20 meetings, including four on-site at Gilbert Stewart/Lima. He warned that delays could impact the Roger Williams project behind this one, causing loss of state bonuses. Material cost escalation is about 6% per year, equating to roughly $400,000 per month in added costs. The city has already spent $1.7 million on design; if the project is scrapped, that design cost would not be reimbursed (RIDE only reimburses completed projects at 91%). He stated that renovations to preserve the existing building are not feasible because the building (designed as a middle school) cannot be converted to an ADA-accessible dual-language pre-K-8 facility. The architect determined that the existing configuration cannot accommodate the pre-K program due to code requirements (e.g., bathrooms on every floor, first-floor location for younger kids, exiting issues). - Zach Scott (Deputy Superintendent of Operations) clarified that the state reimbursement process involves three stages: stage one and two (needs and solutions) have been approved; stage three (design approval) is ongoing. Demolition was always part of the plan, as documented in the stage two application approved in 2023. - Council Member Questions and Concerns: - Councilman Pichardo asked why a financial analysis for preserving the building's structure was not done earlier. He noted that a memo from August 9, 2025, mentioned that the school was closed a year early for savings, but preservation analysis was lacking. Dr. Carino responded that the architect determined the building cannot be reused for the intended program, and additional analysis would cost non-reimbursable funds. Pichardo expressed frustration that the three-architect analysis requested was not fully provided. - Councilman Taylor asked about the expected student count (about 900) and compared the footprint to the Kennedy School. - Councilwoman Peterson criticized the administration for not providing requested information in a timely manner, stating that the process lacks good faith. She urged the administration to deliver clear answers rather than evasive responses. - Councilman Pichardo requested a two-week delay (by October 4) for a community walkthrough of the building with preservation experts and to develop a plan for archiving historical elements. Hawkins and Carino indicated that demolition cannot wait that long without jeopardizing the 2027 opening and the overall project schedule, but they committed to evaluating a walkthrough and providing a point person for community engagement. Public Comments & Testimony - Rochelle (last name not given) – Stated that the community feels the decision to demolish the historic building was made without genuine input. She argued that the school could be repurposed and that the city owns other assets nearby (a junkyard, a community center) that could be leveraged. She criticized the narrative that stakeholders are uninformed, emphasizing that the building is a historic asset and the demolition process lacks transparency. She urged that no other community endure a similar process. Key Outcomes - The resolution was discussed at length but no vote was taken; the committee chose not to act on the resolution at this meeting. - A motion to continue (likely to adjourn to a future date) was made and seconded; the motion carried (no dissenting votes), and the meeting was adjourned. - The administration committed to: - Provide a point person for both construction site management and design engagement. - Evaluate the possibility of a community walkthrough of the Gilbert Stewart building before demolition begins. - Notify the council and community before demolition starts (expected imminently, within days). - Continue community engagement meetings for the new school design. - Council members reiterated that future projects require earlier, more meaningful community engagement and better documentation delivery.

The Providence Housing Price Task Force met on September 15, 2025, to discuss and vote on a comprehensive report summarizing the task force's three years of work on the housing crisis. The report, presented by policy staff Miguel Young and Chief of Staff June Rose, captures statistics, policy recommendations, and stakeholder input. After extensive discussion, the task force voted to approve the report out of committee for public review and further legislative action. Report Presentation - June Rose, Chief of Staff for the Providence City Council, highlighted the task force's collaborative process, noting presentations from experts including the Providence Housing Authority, Providence Redevelopment Agency, Rhode Island Department of Housing, and others. She emphasized that the report is a model of public research and good governance. - Miguel Young, policy staff, summarized the report's structure: four sections covering the housing crisis statistics, supply-side solutions (e.g., affordable housing trust fund, zoning reforms, land bank, public developer/social housing, inclusionary zoning), demand-side measures (e.g., vacancy tax, rent-setting algorithm ban already enacted, rental registry, rent stabilization), tenant protections, and homelessness/emergency shelter recommendations. He noted that the report is not a final law but a "menu" of options for future legislation. Discussion Items - Councilwoman Peterson spoke about her work on student housing in Ward 14, detailing the impact of off-campus student housing on working-class neighborhoods. She described a student housing task force, ordinances for overlay districts, nuisance regulations, licensing, and impact fees as initial solutions. She also emphasized the need for affordable homeownership alongside rental focus. - Councilman Roy expressed strong reservations, particularly about right of first refusal for tenants and rent stabilization. He argued that such measures could discourage investment, reduce property values, and shrink the tax base, ultimately working against the goal of building more housing. He stated that the solution is to build more units and that the council has already made progress via $55 million in gap financing and the comprehensive plan. He voted nay on the motion. - Councilman Harris (Chair) framed the report as a "menu" for the public and council to engage with, emphasizing that it is not legislation but a starting point for community-driven policy-making. He urged the committee to pass it out so the public can "cook" by providing feedback. - Councilwoman Green echoed support for moving the report forward, highlighting the need to balance investor interests with protecting long-term residents and preventing displacement. She noted that the report's flexible language allows for future adjustments. - Chair Harris, Vice Chair Espinal, and Councilman Roy discussed the tension between encouraging investment and protecting tenants, with most members agreeing that stakeholder input from landlords is critical in subsequent steps. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve the report out of committee: Made by Councilwoman Green, seconded by Councilman Espinal. Vote: 4 in favor, 1 against (Councilman Roy) — recorded as "four eyes, one mushroom classes" (interpreted as four ayes, one nay). The motion carried. - The report will now go before the full City Council to be received and then serve as a working document for public hearings and potential legislation. No new laws were enacted at this meeting.

The Providence City Council Committee on Finance met on September 9, 2025, to elect a new chairperson, consider a major solid waste and recycling cart financing ordinance, appoint a Board of Licenses member, and approve Providence Water’s FY26 budget and related ordinances. The meeting included detailed testimony from finance and sustainability officials and public discussion of leadership and transparency. Election of Committee Chair - Councilmember Ryan was nominated and elected as chairperson of the Finance Committee by a vote of 3–2 over Councilmember Grace. - Councilmembers Ryan, Sanchez, and Taylor voted for Councilmember Ryan. Councilmembers Grace and Angela voted for Councilmember Grace. - During discussion, Councilmember Grace expressed concern that the election process lacked transparency and integrity, stating that decisions were being made behind closed doors. She urged members to vote based on their hearts and not be influenced by others. - Councilmember Angela emphasized the importance of selecting a chair who has been consistently present and has seniority on the committee. - After the election, Chair Ryan thanked the committee, promising to represent the committee and city with integrity. Solid Waste & Recycling Cart Financing (Item 2) - Presentation: Deputy Director of Sustainable Spaces (Chief Mancini) and a representative from the Office of Sustainability presented a proposal to borrow $5,163,000 from Closed Loop Partners (a nonprofit environmental lender) to purchase 125,000 new 95-gallon carts (62,500 for trash, 62,500 for recycling) for city residents. - Financing Structure: The borrowing includes a $3,177,692.31 loan at 0% interest over 60 months and a $1,986,057.69 loan at 3% interest over 81 months. Total repayment is $5,290,022.74, resulting in $126,272.74 in total interest – an effective rate of approximately 1.15%. - Funding Source: $1.85 million from an EPA grant (2022) and about $375,000 from a Recycling Partnership grant cover a portion. The city’s debt service line in the FY26 budget includes provisions for repayment. - Rationale for New Carts: Current carts are 10–17 years old; broken-down carts cause contamination as residents overfill trash and put excess bags into recycling, costing the city about $2 million annually in extra disposal fees. New larger bins (95 gallons) aim to reduce contamination and improve recycling rates. - Distribution Plan: Manufacturer Rehrig Pacific will assemble and deliver carts on collection days, taking back old carts for recycling credit. Distribution expected in late winter/early spring 2026 (six to ten weeks after contract). - Testing: The new carts will use 10-inch wheels (cheaper option, tested on MacWalls Avenue pilot program). Councilmember Sanchez asked about rodent resistance; staff noted the bid specification includes rodent-proof claims but will follow up with the manufacturer about chemical additives. - Warranty: 10-year warranty on new carts. - Questions: Councilmember Ryan asked why contract documents appeared altered; staff clarified that the term sheet was the same as previously submitted, with only an executive summary and repayment schedule added. Councilmember Angela inquired about attorney fees; bond counsel fees were paid from the general fund and not provided on an hourly basis – a transparency concern noted by the committee. Staff agreed to make payment amounts available. - Vote: Motion to approve the ordinance passed unanimously. Board of Licenses Appointment (Item 19) - Candidate: Tanya Fuqail (Community member, Ready to Learn Providence) was nominated by the Mayor for a seat on the Board of Licenses. - Testimony: Fuqail has 30+ years on the South Side, worked with small business licensees, and emphasized due diligence, fairness, and hearing both business owners and residents. She committed to recusing herself from conflicts of interest. - Discussion: Councilmember Angela asked about potential conflicts with her previous work; Fuqail stated she does not directly interact with businesses in her current role and would recuse if needed. Councilmember Sanchez praised her character and community service. - Vote: Motion to approve Fuqail’s appointment passed unanimously. Appointment will go to the full council. Continuances (Items 17 & 18) - Two items on the agenda were continued without discussion after Councilmember Gray reported that the individual involved had returned to work and would withdraw the application after confirming medical condition. Providence Water Supply Board – FY26 Budget and Ordinances (Items 3–16) - Presentation: Cheryl Craig (Director of Finance), Peter McHate (Director of Engineering), and Stephanie Martin (Senior Manager) presented a balanced $97.4 million operating budget for Providence Water, serving 60% of the state. The budget includes no transfer from the city’s general fund. - Revenue & Expenses: Operating expenses approximately 55% of total budget; restricted funds (11 funds) are 43%. Salaries: $19 million (36% of operating expenses) includes a 2.75% cost-of-living increase. Retirement contributions: $5.5 million (9.6% of operating expenses). Services, materials, and equipment: $13.8 million (25%). Property taxes: $8.8 million (16%). - Rate Increase: Rates approved by the Public Utilities Commission effective August 1, 2025. Providence Water remains one of the most affordable utilities in the state – second lowest – with average annual consumption (74,000 gallons) costing about $548. - Personnel Additions: Six new positions added (e.g., utility laborer, manager of plant operations, senior bar plant mechanic, police supervisors) – a 4% overall increase in personnel. - Lead Service Line Replacement: Councilmember Sanchez urged coordination with the city on street repairs after lead pipe replacement work; staff said they hold biweekly/monthly meetings with DPW to coordinate. Councilmember Taylor asked about sinkholes on sidewalks; staff directed residents to call 711 and said they will investigate and coordinate with DPW/National Grid. - Vote: Motion to approve the budget and all related ordinances (items 3–16) passed unanimously. Adjournment - Meeting adjourned at approximately 9:20 PM following a motion by Councilmember Taylor, seconded by Councilmember Anthony. Key Outcomes - Elected Chair: Councilmember Ryan elected Finance Committee Chair (3–2). - Approved Ordinance: Solid waste/recycling cart financing ordinance (unanimous). - Appointed Board Member: Tanya Fuqail approved for Board of Licenses (unanimous). - Approved Budget: Providence Water FY26 budget and related ordinances (unanimous). - Continued Items: Items 17 and 18 continued without objection.

The Providence Board of Contract and Supply held its regular meeting on September 8, 2025, with eight members present and four absent. The meeting was called to order, and a motion was approved to appoint the chairperson (the speaker who presided). The board approved a consent calendar of 26 items, authorized advertisements, referred bids, and extended a project deadline. No public comments were received. Consent Calendar - Items 1–26 in Section A were approved on a roll call vote with seven ayes, one nay, and four absent. The single nay vote was not attributed to a specific member in the transcript. These items covered routine contract and supply approvals. - Minutes from the board’s August 25, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Chairperson Appointment: The board approved a motion to appoint the presiding member as chairperson (motion by Director DePina, seconded by Director Delgado). - On-Call Temporary Relocation Provider (Four-Year Contract): A motion by Director Richards, seconded by Director Arzumanian, passed unanimously to approve this contract. - Public School Project Manager Extension: The Department of Public Property’s Owner's Project Manager phase for Providence Public School Projects was reported as extended to October 6, 2025. No vote was taken. - Ice Storage Study – No Bidders: The Department of Public Works item for a Lee Slam (likely a study or service) for ice storage received no bidders and will be re-advertised. The board approved the re-advertisement as part of Section C. - Bid Referrals: Bids opened during the meeting were referred to the city clerk’s office (motion by Director Delgado, seconded by Director Richards). - Section C Advertisements: The board approved all advertisements in Section C, including the re-advertisement of the ice storage item (motion by Director DePina, seconded by Director Richards). Key Outcomes - Approved Contracts: The on-call temporary relocation provider contract was awarded. The consent calendar (items 1–26) was approved with one dissenting vote. - Project Extension: The public school project manager timeline was extended to October 6, 2025. - Re‑advertisement: The ice storage study will be re‑advertised due to lack of bidders. - Minutes Approved: The minutes of August 25, 2025, were approved. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned following a motion by Director Richards, seconded by Director Arzumanian.