New Shoreham, Rhode Island

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider two final applications regarding exterior construction. The body will review a request for a new single-family home and a request for a dumpster screening fence.

• Application by John Spier (Casa Ladera, LLC) for a single-family dwelling at Plat 6, Lot 2-3, Old Town Road
• Application by the Town and BIMI for a screening fence around a dumpster at 119 Ocean Ave (Plat 5, Lot 64-2)

Town Council Meeting

The council will hold a closed‑session discussion on collective‑bargaining negotiations with the International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 720. Several public hearings will address proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, including adding “Game Rooms” to the Old Harbor Commercial Zone and changes to affordable‑housing, accessory‑use and parking rules. The council will vote on a $289,500 award to Grace's Cove to Ocean State Sitework & Hauling, LLC for 2027 roadway improvements and review financial reports.

• Closed‑session discussion on negotiations with International Brotherhood of Police Officers Local 720
• Public hearing on outdoor entertainment license for TMG BI Operating, LLC d/b/a OneBI Steak & Oyster, 212 Water Street
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance adding “Game Rooms” to Old Harbor Commercial Zone
• Award of $289,500 contract to Grace's Cove to Ocean State Sitework & Hauling, LLC for 2027 Roadway Improvements
• Amendment to General Ordinance Chapter 8, Article X Special Events

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will hold a public hearing on July 22, 2026, to consider a variance for a home addition and a special use permit for a secondary dwelling. The meeting will take place at Town Hall in New Shoreham.

• Public hearing: Gorayeb, Christopher J. — Special Use Permit for secondary dwelling
• Public hearing: Demos, The Family Trust — Variance for home addition
• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Meeting location: Town Hall, 16 Old Town Road, Block Island, RI

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will hold a public hearing regarding amusement license conditions and restrictions. The body will also discuss zoning ordinance amendments and award on-call engineering services.

• Public hearing on General Ordinances Chapter 8, Article II Amusements (8-18 and 8-21)
• Proposed $10,000 allocation for Block Island Ticks and Tick-borne Pathogen Surveillance Pilot Program
• Award for On-Call Engineering Services to James J. Geremia & Associates, Inc., VHB, Inc., Foth Infrastructure & Environmental, LLC, and GZA GeoEnvironmental, Inc.
• Special Temporary Permit request for habitation trailers at 777 Mitchell Lane and 967 West Beach Road
• Mobile Food Establishment permit for Payne’s Killer Donuts at Plat 5, Lot 104, Ocean Avenue

Town Council Meeting

Town Council Meeting

The council will administer the oath of office for a newly appointed member. It will receive an update from the Architectural & Engineering team on the Block Island School construction, covering schedule, concept development, and next steps. The body will also discuss challenges, funding, timeline, and key milestones for the project.

• Swear in newly appointed Town Council member
• Receive update on Block Island School construction from Architectural & Engineering team
• Review schedule and overview of the school project
• Discuss community engagement and concept development for the school
• Discuss challenges, funding, timeline, and key milestones for the school project

Zoning Board of Review

The New Shoreham Zoning Board of Review will consider a variance request from Franklin Swamp, LLC for setback relief to install a 14’x30’ inground pool on Plat 15, Lot 39-4 (Fire #1452 West Side Road). It will also hear a public variance request from the Demos Family Trust for an addition to a single‑family home on Plat 3, Lot 108, and a second extension request for a special‑use permit by Christopher J. Gorayeb on Plat 19, Lot 37. Two additional variance decisions involve an administrative subdivision affecting Plat 3, Lots 138 and 139, and the board will approve the meeting minutes.

• Application: Christopher J. Gorayeb seeks a two‑year extension of a 2023 special‑use permit for a secondary dwelling on Plat 19, Lot 37 (Fire #919 Champlin Road).
• Public hearing: Demos Family Trust requests a variance for an addition to a single‑family dwelling on Plat 3, Lot 108.
• Decision: Franklin Swamp, LLC requests a variance for setback relief to install a 14’x30’ inground pool on Plat 15, Lot 39‑4 (Fire #1452 West Side Road).
• Decision: Variance for an administrative subdivision changing lot lines between Plat 3, Lot 138 (Fire #1784 Mansion Beach Road) and Lot 139 (Fire #697 Mansion Road).
• Other business: Approval of meeting minutes.

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review applications for four new signs at various business and association locations. The body will also discuss the historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 Map regarding a potential expansion of the Historic District.

• New sign application for Salt Pond Settlement at 72 Westside Road
• New sign application for Block Market Second Path on Water Street
• New sign application for Drift Island Spa on Water Street
• New sign application for Wetherbee’s on Connecticut Ave.
• Discussion of potential Historic District expansion in Area 1 Map

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will hold public hearings regarding zoning amendments for trailers and special use permits, as well as veterans' tax exemptions. The body will also discuss police and employee contracts and consider terminating a road maintenance agreement with the DOT.

• Public hearing on Block Island Veterinary Initiative application to amend zoning regarding trailers
• Public hearing on amendments to General Ordinance Chapter 17 regarding veterans' tax exemptions
• Approval of contract for RI Council 94 AFSCME, AFL-CIO Local 2855 New Shoreham Employee’s Association (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2030)
• Authorization of awards for on-call engineering services to James J. Geremia & Associates, VHB, Foth Infrastructure & Environmental, and GZA GeoEnvironmental
• Discussion on employment contract for Public Works Director Michael Shea through December 31, 2028

AGENDA - Jun. 10, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will review and act on several amendments to the town’s Zoning Ordinance, each with a recommendation to the Town Council for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. Items include a cannabis establishment proposal, provisions for manufactured homes, adaptive reuse uses, and an outdoor lighting ordinance update. A non‑conformance amendment and a revision to Zoning Appendix B are also on the agenda. The meeting will conclude with approval of the previous minutes.

• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance – Non‑Conformance (Sections 113 & 401)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance – Cannabis Establishment (Sections 202, 311, 312, 313, 427)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance – Manufactured Homes (Sections 202, 306‑313, 319, 322, 506)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance – Adaptive Reuse (Sections 114, 306‑313, 319, 322, 502, 520)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance – Outdoor Lighting Ordinance (Section 512)

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will meet to discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments with the Planning Board and a land use attorney. The council will also act on parking considerations for Old Harbor Dock and swear in a new member.

• Proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments regarding Non-Conformance (Sections 113 & 401)
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments regarding RA & RB total living area (Sections 306 & 307)
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance amendment regarding Development Plan Review
• Action on Old Harbor Dock parking considerations
• Update on Rural Health Transformation Grant

AGENDA - Jun. 3, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The Planning Board will meet with Town Council members, a planner, and a land use attorney. They will discuss proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance regarding non-conformance, total living area in RA and RB zones, and development plan review.

• Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding Non-Conformance (Sections 113 & 401)
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding RA & RB total living area (Sections 306 & 307)
• Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendment regarding Development Plan Review

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss collective‑bargaining negotiations with the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local 720 in a closed session. It will also swear in Second Warden Margaret O’Neill, hold a public hearing on an outdoor entertainment license for TMG BI Operating, LLC d/b/a OneBI Steak & Oyster at 212 Water Street, and adopt a proclamation honoring Block Island School graduates. Additional items include consent‑agenda approvals, committee updates, public hearings to amend zoning for Game Rooms and Disc Golf, and borrowing resolutions authorizing bonds up to $3,200,000 for shoreline work, $1,000,000 for roads and bridges, $942,000 for water‑district improvements, and $1,100,000 for a fire engine.

• Closed‑session discussion of negotiations with International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local 720
• Public hearing on Outdoor Entertainment License for TMG BI Operating, LLC d/b/a OneBI Steak & Oyster, 212 Water Street
• Public hearing to amend Zoning Ordinance adding Game Rooms in Old Harbor Commercial Zone
• Public hearing to amend Zoning Ordinance adding Disc Golf in Residential A Zone
• Borrowing resolutions authorizing bonds up to $3,200,000 for shoreline stabilization, $1,000,000 for roads/bridges, $942,000 for water‑district improvements, and $1,100,000 for fire engine acquisition

Zoning Board of Review

The New Shoreham Zoning Board of Review meets on May 27, 2026 at Town Hall to decide a variance request for Jonmathew H. Swienton’s Beach Avenue property, merging Lots 31 and 32 for a single‑family dwelling. The board will also hold public hearings on several other variance and special‑use permit applications, including a pool setback relief, lot‑line changes, and a withdrawal request for a renovation permit. Minutes from the previous meeting will be approved.

• Decision: Variance (Sections 310(C) & 314(A)) for Jonmathew H. Swienton, Plat 5, Lots 31‑32, Beach Avenue – merge lots for a single‑family dwelling.
• Public hearing: Mark Masiello, Plat 15, Lot 132, Old Dunn Road – second request for two‑year extension of 2022 variance (Section 306(C)) to demolish and rebuild a single‑family dwelling and accessory structures.
• Public hearing: Franklin Swamp, LLC, Plat 15, Lot 39‑4, West Side Road – variance (Section 306(C)) for setback relief for a 14’ x 30’ inground pool.
• Public hearing: Heather & Shan Prendergast (Lot 139) and Peter Bates & Kelly Conway (Lot 138), Plat 3, Mansion Road – variance (Sections 306 & 706) for administrative subdivision altering lot lines.
• Public hearing: Alexander & Karan Taylor, Plat 15, Lot 30‑1, West Side Road – special‑use permit (Sections 306(E) & 403) to renovate an accessory residential structure and add a swimming pool, with a request to withdraw.

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will hold public hearings on zoning changes for game rooms and disc golf, as well as property tax classifications. The body will also discuss police contract negotiations and requests from the Manissean Tribal Community.

• Public hearing on Gary Pollard's application to allow game rooms in the Old Harbor Commercial Zone
• Public hearing on Block Island Land Trust's application to add disc golf to Residential A Zone special use permits
• Public hearing on amendments to General Ordinance Chapter 17 regarding property tax classification
• Discussion on a tribal camping pilot program and fishing/clamming licenses for the Manissean Tribal Community
• Action on the resignation of Nancy O. Dodge from the position of Second Warden

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider an application from John Spier of Casa Ladera, LLC to build a single‑family dwelling on Plat 6, Lot 2‑3 of Old Town Road. The commission will also discuss the historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 and the potential expansion of the historic district. Minutes from the April 27, 2026 meeting will be approved.

• Application by John Spier (Casa Ladera, LLC) to construct a single‑family dwelling on Plat 6, Lot 2‑3, Old Town Road
• Discussion of historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 and potential historic district expansion
• Approval of minutes from the April 27, 2026 meeting

AGENDA - May 13, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will discuss and act on several zoning amendment applications, including a proposal for disc‑golf facilities and a mobile veterinary unit. It will also review amendments related to a cannabis establishment, outdoor lighting standards, and definitions for manufactured homes. The board will consider a change to the September meeting date and approve the meeting minutes.

• Application to amend Zoning Ordinance Sections 306(E) and 410(B)(2) for disc‑golf (Block Island Land Trust)
• Application to amend Zoning Ordinance Sections 111 and 112 for a mobile veterinary unit (Block Island Veterinary Initiative)
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance for a cannabis establishment (Sections 202, 311, 312, 313, 427)
• Amendment to Outdoor Lighting Ordinance, Section 512
• Amendment to Zoning Ordinance definitions for manufactured homes (Sections 202, 306‑313, 319, 506)

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss collective bargaining negotiations with the town employee association, acknowledge the loss of the police department K9, and vote on several consent agenda items. The consent agenda includes approval of a $100,000 recreational grant for pickleball courts and a $115,000 sewer overflow and stormwater reuse grant for West Beach Road design. A public hearing will be held on an amendment to the Motor Vehicles for Hire ordinance. Additional items cover board resignations, vacancies, and legislative updates.

• Negotiations between RI Council 94 AFSCME, AFL‑CIO Local 2855, New Shoreham Employee’s Association and the town (closed session)
• Acknowledgment of the loss of New Shoreham Police Department K9 Marcus
• Approval of $100,000 Recreational Grant for construction of pickleball courts
• Approval of $115,000 Sewer Overflow & Stormwater Reuse Grant for West Beach Road design
• Public hearing on amendment to Chapter 8, Article VII Motor Vehicles for Hire ordinance

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will consider an application by John Spier of Casa Ladera, LLC to construct a single‑family dwelling on Plat 6, Lot 2‑3, Old Town Road. It will also review an application by the Solar Initiative for an electric car charging station and related signage at Plat 6, Lot 71, Fire #16 Old Town Road, as well as a sign request from the Block Island Historical Society at Plat 6, Lot 1, Fire #18 Old Town Road. The commission will discuss the historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 and the potential expansion of the historic district, and will approve the March 23, 2026 minutes.

• Application by John Spier (Casa Ladera, LLC) to construct a single‑family dwelling on Plat 6, Lot 2‑3, Old Town Road.
• Application by the Solar Initiative for an electric car charging station on Town of New Shoreham, Plat 6, Lot 71, Fire #16 Old Town Road.
• Sign application by the Solar Initiative for electric car charging station signs at the same location.
• Sign application by Lesley Helterline (Block Island Historical Society) for a new historical society sign at Plat 6, Lot 1, Fire #18 Old Town Road.
• Discussion of historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 and potential expansion of the Historic District; approval of March 23, 2026 minutes.

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will meet to hear variance applications for a single-family dwelling on Beach Avenue and a request to continue a hearing for a home addition. The agenda also includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Public hearing: Variance for Swienton, Jonmathew H., Plat 5, Lots 31 and 32, Beach Avenue
• Public hearing: Request for continuance for Demos, The Family Trust, Plat 3, Lot 108
• Approval of Minutes

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council approved a zoning amendment to remove finished and unfinished basements from residential floor area calculations. The body also authorized a grant for pumpouts and appointed members to the water and sewer commissions.

• Adopted zoning amendment to Article 2 Section 202 and Article 4 Section 406 regarding basement area calculations
• Authorized $30,585 Subaward Agreement with RI DEM for the Clean Vessel Act Pumpout Grant Program 2026
• Appointed Joel Brenneman and Peter McNerney as full members and Lyle Carey as alternate to the Sewer and Water District Commissions
• Continued public hearing on zoning amendments for affordable housing and accessory dwelling units to July 15, 2026
• Continued public hearing on Gary Pollard's application to allow 'Game Rooms' in the Old Harbor Commercial Zone to May 20, 2026

4:00pm Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will hold a public hearing and vote to adopt the FY2027 budget for submission to the Financial Town Meeting. The body will also consider budget line amendments and discuss labor negotiations with the New Shoreham Employee’s Association.

• Public hearing and vote on FY2027 budget
• Budget line amendments to the FY2027 budget
• Negotiations with RI Council 94 AFSCME, AFL-CIO Local 2855 New Shoreham Employee’s Association

AGENDA - Apr. 8, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will discuss and act on multiple proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance, including changes regarding disc golf, cannabis use, accessory dwelling units, and outdoor lighting. The board will also review a special use permit application and approve meeting minutes.

• Review proposed amendment to Zoning Ordinance Sections 306(E) and 410(B)(2) regarding disc golf
• Review amendment to Zoning Ordinance regarding cannabis use
• Review draft amendments to Zoning Ordinance Section 513 regarding accessory dwelling units
• Review amendment to Zoning Ordinance Section 512 regarding outdoor lighting
• Review application for a Special Use Permit for a swimming pool at 867 West Side Road

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will hold a public hearing to discuss and act on the FY2027 budget. The body will also consider zoning ordinance amendments and negotiate with the New Shoreham Employee’s Association.

• Public hearing on FY2027 budget
• Proposed zoning amendments regarding household definitions and wastewater treatment systems
• Reallocation of $25,000 from tennis court resurfacing to playground equipment
• RI DEM 2026 Recreation Grant of $100,000 for Block Island Pickleball Court Project
• Special Temporary Permit for portable restrooms at Camp Sandsland (Plat 10, Lot 33)

Town Council Meeting - Budget Discussions

The New Shoreham Town Council will hold a public hearing on the FY2027 budget. Council members will discuss budget priorities and any proposed changes. The meeting may result in actions to adopt or modify the FY2027 budget.

• Budget discussions regarding the FY2027 budget
• Discuss and act on Town Council budget priorities and changes
• Public hearing to discuss and act on the Town of New Shoreham FY2027 budget

Town Council Meeting - Budget Discussions

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss the FY 2027 budget. The agenda item covers community support for agencies such as BI Health Services, BI Volunteer Fire & Rescue, Tri‑County Community Action, the Visitor Center, the Domestic Violence Center of South County, the Coast Guard Facility, and the BI Early Learning Center. The council will also review the capital tax component of the budget. No specific dollar amounts or decisions are detailed in the agenda.

• FY 2027 budget – review of community support for local agencies (BI Health Services, Volunteer Fire & Rescue, etc.)
• FY 2027 budget – consideration of capital tax

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review processed several applications for variances and special use permits. The board scheduled multiple public hearings for April and May 2026 and continued two existing public hearings.

• Scheduled May 27 hearing for 1452 West Side Road regarding a 14x30 inground pool variance
• Scheduled May 27 hearing for 697 Mansion Road and 1784 Mansion Beach Road regarding an administrative subdivision
• Scheduled May 27 hearing for 867 West Side Road to renovate an accessory structure and build a pool
• Scheduled April 22 hearing for Beach Avenue regarding a variance for a single-family dwelling
• Continued public hearings for 997 Old Dunn Road and Plat 3, Lot 108

3:00pm Town Council Meeting - Budget Discussions

The New Shoreham Town Council meeting will review the proposed FY 2027 budget. Topics include funding for the town library and Block Island School, a departmental review of multiple offices, and revenue considerations. No decisions are recorded in the agenda text.

• Library budget discussion
• Block Island School budget discussion
• Departmental review: Administration, Finance, Human Services, Central Dispatch, Police, Public Works, Harbors, Building Official, Recreation, GIS Technology, Boards and Commissions
• Revenue considerations for FY 2027

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will review three applications for exterior modifications and new construction. The commission will also discuss the historical and architectural values of properties in Area 1 Map regarding a potential expansion of the Historic District.

• Application for Old Post Office Bagel Shop (123 Ocean Ave) to extend exterior fence
• Application for 243 Dodge Street for replacement window
• Application for a single-family dwelling on Old Town Road
• Discussion of potential Historic District expansion in Area 1 Map

3:00pm Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will meet with Planning Board members, Planner Peter Friedrichs, and Land Use Attorney Kerin Browning. They will discuss several proposed amendments to the town's zoning ordinance, covering accessory dwelling units, definitions of bedrooms and households, occupant limits, floor and gross area calculations, residential structure thresholds, and outdoor lighting. No decisions are indicated; the agenda item is for discussion only.

• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 513 Accessory Dwelling Units
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 202 Definitions (Bedroom and Household) and Section 506
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 304.1 Number of Occupants per Household
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 202 Definitions (Floor Area and Gross Area) and Section 406 Residential Structures thresholds
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 512 Outdoor Lighting Ordinance

Town Council Meeting

The council will hear the initial presentation of the FY2026 General Fund operating and capital budget. It will also set public hearing dates for several proposed amendments to the New Shoreham Zoning Ordinance and the Marine Activities ordinance, and consider a public hearing on shellfish licensing changes. The consent agenda includes approval of minutes, letters supporting housing and maritime grant applications, awarding mowing contracts for town properties, authorizing lobbyist services, and appointing members to the Board of Canvassers and other commissions.

• Award mowing contracts to Hall’s Mowing, DHM Landscaping, Connelli Land Improvement, and EH Services for town properties
• Authorize lobbyist services agreement with Mayforth Group for 2026
• Set public hearing dates for multiple zoning ordinance amendments (lighting, definitions, parking, accessory uses, ADUs, affordable housing, disc golf, game rooms)
• Receive initial presentation of FY2026 General Fund operating and capital budget
• Approve letters supporting the Block Island Housing Board’s Housing 2030 grant and Block Island Maritime Institute’s federal appropriations request

AGENDA - Mar. 11, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will discuss and act on multiple requests to amend the Zoning Ordinance, including recommendations for game rooms, disc golf, cannabis, and general zoning modifications. The board must provide findings and recommendations to the Town Council by specific dates in March and April.

• Request to amend Zoning Ordinance Sections 111(A)15 and 311(D) regarding Game Rooms
• Request to amend Zoning Ordinance Sections 306(E) and 410(B)(2) regarding Disc Golf
• Review and recommendation on an amendment regarding Cannabis
• Review and recommendation on amendments to Zoning Appendix B
• Review and recommendation on amendments to definitions and modification permits

Planning Board Public Notice

The Planning Board voted 4‑0 to recommend that the Town Council amend the zoning ordinance to permit stand‑alone arcade game rooms in the Old Harbor Commercial/Historic District. The board discussed a Block Island Land Trust proposal to add disc golf to the zoning code, extending the response deadline to May 15. A separate 6‑0 vote approved a recommendation to raise the residential total‑living‑area threshold from 3,300 sq ft to 4,000 sq ft in Zones 306(E) and 307(E). Several other zoning amendments, including a cannabis‑related change, were tabled until future meetings.

• Approved advisory recommendation to amend Zoning Ordinance §§111(A)15 and 311(D) to permit stand‑alone arcade game rooms in Old Harbor Commercial/Historic District.
• Discussed Block Island Land Trust amendment to Zoning Ordinance §§306(E) and 410(B)(2) for disc golf; response deadline extended to May 15.
• Approved advisory recommendation to update residential zoning §§306(E) and 307(E), raising total living area threshold from 3,300 sq ft to 4,000 sq ft.
• Tabled cannabis zoning amendment and Zoning Appendix B use categories; postponed to April 8, 2026.
• Tabled amendment concerning §202 definitions and §705 modification permits; postponed to a future meeting.

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will consider a consent agenda that includes approval of minutes, a deer hunting authorization, reports on cemeteries, a housing grant support letter, cleaning contracts, tax assessor abatements, and a $1.7 million borrowing request for employee housing. They will also set a public hearing date for zoning ordinance amendments, discuss draft legislation to retire motorized‑bicycle rental licenses and limit them to five, and vote on fee schedule changes for multiple town services. Additionally, the Council will act on a recommendation to reallocate $25,000 of ARPA funds from the Old Harbor Bulkhead project to Dispatch Hardening. The meeting includes public comment, updates on board vacancies, and various legislative updates and resolutions.

• Reallocate $25,000 ARPA funds from Old Harbor Bulkhead to Dispatch Hardening
• Draft legislation to retire motorized bicycle, scooter, and tricycle rental licenses and limit total licenses to five
• Fee schedule changes for harbors, shellfish, recreation, building, cemetery, administration, sewer, water, police, and Coast Guard services
• Set public hearing date for amendments to New Shoreham Zoning Ordinance (Sections 202 and 506)
• Block Island Utility District borrowing request of $1,700,000 for purchase and renovation of a multifamily home for employee housing

CANCELLED Feb. 25, 2026 - Zoning Board of Review

The New Shoreham Zoning Board of Review cancelled its scheduled meeting on February 25, 2026. The agenda included items such as the election of officers and four variance applications.

• Meeting cancelled for Feb. 25, 2026
• Election of Officers
• Variance for Franklin Swamp LLC pool
• Variance for Prendergast Administrative Subdivision
• Variance for Taylor Special Use Permit

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will approve minutes, grant commercial shellfish licenses, and award several service contracts, including a $92,920 painting and shingling contract for the North End Coast Guard Station. The council will also appoint members to various commissions, set a public hearing for proposed amendments to the town's shellfish licensing ordinance, and consider resolutions on deer management, road funding, purchasing limits, and tax policy.

• Award contract to Efficiency Inc. for painting/shingling North End – Coast Guard Station ($92,920)
• Approve commercial shellfish licenses for George Davis, Chris Littlefield, Charlie Gale, James Nelson, Joseph Fallon, Jon Grant, and John Swienton
• Set public hearing date for amendments to General Ordinance Chapter 9 Marine Activities (shellfish licensing fees and terms)
• Discuss and act on MOU for Statewide CAD & Records Management System between RI Dept. of Public Safety and New Shoreham Police Department
• Resolution to adjust purchasing limits for contractor services and hard goods from $10,000 to $25,000

AGENDA - Feb. 11, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will review the proposed 2027‑2031 Capital Improvement Program and determine whether it is consistent with the town’s Comprehensive Plan. It will also consider several zoning ordinance amendments, including changes related to cannabis use, Section 113 non‑conformance, and the zoning use‑category appendix. The board will elect officers and approve the previous meeting’s minutes.

• Review and act on consistency of the 2027‑2031 Capital Improvement Program with the Comprehensive Plan
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – recommendation on cannabis use
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Section 113 Non‑Conformance (and Section 401)
• Zoning Ordinance Amendment – Appendix B use categories allowed by zoning district
• Election of Planning Board officers

AGENDA - Feb. 4, 2026 - Planning Board meet with Town Council

The New Shoreham Planning Board will meet with Town Council members, Planner Peter Friedrichs, and Land Use Attorney Kerin Browning. They will discuss proposed amendments to the zoning ordinance, specifically changes to the Accessory Dwelling Units provision (Section 513) and lighting regulations (Section 512). No decisions are recorded in the agenda; the meeting is for discussion of these proposals.

• Proposed amendment to Accessory Dwelling Units regulation (Zoning Ordinance Section 513)
• Proposed amendment to lighting regulation (Zoning Ordinance Section 512)

CANCELLED - Feb. 4, 2026 - Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council meeting scheduled for February 4, 2026 was cancelled. No votes or official actions occurred. The agenda had listed a meeting with Planning Board members, Planner Peter Friedrichs, and Land Use Attorney Kerin Browning to discuss proposed zoning ordinance amendments concerning accessory dwelling units and lighting. Residents were advised to request interpreter services for the deaf and hard of hearing at least 48 hours in advance.

• Discussion of proposed zoning ordinance amendments for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU)
• Discussion of proposed zoning ordinance amendments for lighting

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss and act on collective bargaining negotiations in a closed session, approve a municipal road and bridge program agreement for $83,126.19, and consider several appointments and public‑health measures. The consent agenda includes minutes, a shellfish closure schedule, and reimbursement of $1,100 for a cemetery lot. Additional items cover legislation for moped license retirement and strategies for tick‑borne illness. Public comment will follow the agenda items.

• Closed‑session discussion of negotiations with RI Council 94 AFSCME, AFL‑CIO Local 2855 and the Town
• Approve Municipal Road and Bridge Program State Funds Local Public Agency Agreement (FY2026, $83,126.19) with RI DOT
• Authorize return of cemetery lot (Plat 3, Lot 85A) to the Town with reimbursement of $1,100
• Appoint a member to the Planning Board (term expires 12/2030)
• Discuss legislation to facilitate retirement of moped licenses

Historic District Commission

The New Shoreham Historic District Commission will review two applications: one by Todd McGarry to replace a window with a door at Fire #53 Water Street, and another by Jonmathew H. and Abby Swienton to construct a single‑family dwelling on Beach Avenue (Plat 5, Lots 31 & 32). The public will be allowed limited comments on exterior design. The meeting will also include election of officers and approval of the November 24, 2025 minutes.

• Application to replace a window with a door at Fire #53 Water Street (Todd McGarry)
• Application to construct a single‑family dwelling on Beach Avenue, Plat 5, Lots 31 & 32 (Jonmathew H. & Abby Swienton)
• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from November 24, 2025

CANCELLED Jan. 28, 2026 - Zoning Board of Review

The New Shoreham Zoning Board of Review meeting scheduled for January 28, 2026 was cancelled. The agenda listed items such as officer elections, several variance applications, and public hearings, but no decisions were made. No minutes were approved because the meeting did not occur.

• Election of Officers
• Variance application by Franklin Swamp, LLC for a 14’x30’ inground pool at 1452 West Side Road
• Variance applications by Heather and Shan Prendergast and others for lot line changes on Mansion Road
• Public hearing request by Mark Masiello for a two‑year extension of a July 28, 2022 zoning decision on Old Dunn Road
• Public hearing request by The Family Trust (Gregory and Desiree Demos) for an addition on 108 Mansion Beach Road

7:00pm Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss funding for a 16-unit affordable housing project and the issuance of bonds up to $2,000,000 for the Block Island Housing Board. The council will also consider a bid for the Fred Benson Town Beach food concession and a request for an EV charger at Town Hall.

• Proposed general obligation bonds up to $2,000,000 for Block Island Housing Board operational expenses
• Proposed bonds for the construction of approximately 16 units at the O’Brien Property (Plat 18, Lot 2-3)
• Bid award for Fred Benson Town Beach food and beverage concession to 4J’s Seafood (Rebecca’s) from May 1, 2026 to December 1, 2030
• Request from Solar Initiative of Block Island to operate an EV charger in the Town Hall parking lot
• Determination of 2026–2027 hunting season dates

2:00pm Meeting with State Leaders

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss and act on the 2025 legislative agenda items, including tick‑borne illness, non‑owner occupied property tax, DOT support, online driver education, and moped license retirement. The council will also receive an update from State Senator DiMario and Representative Spears on the 2026 legislative session.

• Tick‑borne illness public health issue on Block Island
• Non‑owner occupied property tax
• Department of Transportation support to Block Island
• Online driver’s education
• Moped license retirement

AGENDA - Jan. 20, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will meet with the Historical District Commission. The discussion focuses on adding additional lots to the Historic District.

• Discussion on expanding the Historic District per General Ordinance Chapter 7 and Zoning Ordinance Article 3

Historic District Commission

The Historic District Commission will meet with the Planning Board to discuss expanding the Historic District. The discussion focuses on adding additional lots to the Historic Overlay as outlined in New Shoreham General Ordinance Chapter 7, Section 7-13 and the Zoning Ordinance Article 3, Section 302. No formal decision is indicated; the agenda item is for discussion only.

• Discuss expansion of the Historic District to include additional lots
• Reference to New Shoreham General Ordinance Chapter 7, Section 7-13
• Reference to New Shoreham Zoning Ordinance Article 3, Section 302

Planning Board Public Notice

The Planning Board approved amendments to land development and subdivision regulations to comply with state law. The board also sent favorable recommendations to the Town Council regarding zoning definitions and development plan reviews.

• Adopted amendments to Land Development and Subdivision Regulations sections 903, 904, 905, and 906
• Recommended Town Council approval of updated zoning definitions for Floor Area and Gross Area
• Voted 4-2 not to proceed with amendments to Section 406 regarding residential structure thresholds
• Recommended Town Council approval of amendments regarding Development Plan Review
• Tabled discussions on the 2027-2031 Capital Improvement Program, cannabis regulations, and Section 113 Non-Conformance

AGENDA - Jan. 14, 2026 - Planning Board Public Notice

The New Shoreham Planning Board will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development and Subdivision Regulations, including sections 903, 905, and 906, to align with state law changes effective Jan. 1, 2024. The board will also review the 2027‑2031 Capital Improvement Program for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan. Several zoning ordinance amendments—covering cannabis, floor‑area definitions, residential‑structure thresholds, development plan review sections, and non‑conformance provisions—will be reviewed and recommended to the Town Council.

• Public hearing on amendments to Land Development and Subdivision Regulations (sections 903, 905, 906)
• Review of Capital Improvement Program 2027‑2031 for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan
• Zoning ordinance amendment on cannabis regulations
• Zoning ordinance amendments to definitions (floor area, gross area) and residential‑structure thresholds
• Zoning ordinance amendments covering development plan review sections and non‑conformance (Section 113)

Police Advisory Commission

The commission will hear public input, elect officers, consider the minutes from the October 23, 2025 meeting, discuss any community feedback, receive an update from Police Chief Paul Deane, and then adjourn. No decisions are recorded in this agenda; it outlines topics for discussion and action at the meeting.

• Public input
• Election of officers
• Discussion and action on minutes of October 23, 2025 meeting
• Discussion of community feedback, if any
• Update from Police Chief Paul Deane

1:00pm Town Council Meeting - Deer Hunting Dates

The New Shoreham Town Council will discuss and decide on deer hunting dates for town-owned property at Plat 20, Lot 20. The decision will determine when hunting is permitted on that parcel. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 8, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 16 Old Town Road.

• Discuss and act on deer hunting dates for Town property at Plat 20, Lot 20

Town Council Meeting

The New Shoreham Town Council will swear in Police Officer Donovan Rosa and approve a consent agenda that includes minutes, a lease for the Thomas Property Unit (Fire #390 South), and several pieces of correspondence. The council will set membership numbers, terms, and appointments for various boards and committees, including the Board of Tax Assessors. A public hearing will be scheduled to consider amendments to the Zoning Ordinance lighting standards and to the General Ordinances regarding municipal employees serving on the School Committee. Additional items include a report on the O’Brien Property affordable housing project and discussion of fire‑pump storage.

• Swearing‑in ceremony for new Police Officer Donovan Rosa
• Approve lease for rental of the Thomas Property Unit: Fire #390 South
• Appoint member to the Board of Tax Assessors (term expiring 11/2026)
• Public hearing on proposed amendment to New Shoreham Zoning Ordinance Article 5 Performance Standards, Section 512 Lighting
• Public hearing and amendment to General Ordinances Chapter 2 adding section 2‑51 for municipal employees serving as School Committee members