Tiverton public meetings in 2022
47 substantive meetings from 2022, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a public hearing on proposed short-term rental zoning amendments but made no decision, agreeing to revise the draft for review in February. The council also awarded a $144,400 statistical evaluation contract to Northeast Revaluation Group, approved a 10% salary increase for the police chief and deputy chief, and discussed the NorthPoint development termination.
- Public hearing on short-term rental ordinance amendment; no vote, revised draft expected February
- Awarded $144,400 statistical evaluation contract to Northeast Revaluation Group (5-1 vote)
- Approved 10% base salary increases for Police Chief Patrick Jones and Deputy Chief James Costa
- Approved MTG Disposal contract extension Jan-Jun 2023 with increased fuel adjustment
- Authorized transfer of Monast Island to RI DEM
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review met to consider several dimensional variance applications. The Board approved a petition for a new garage at 3550 Main Road and a proposal for building replacement at 196-204 Bulgarmarsh Road, while continuing a garage addition request for 16 Windwood Drive.
- Approved dimensional variance for a 960 square foot garage/barn at 3550 Main Road
- Approved petition to replace multi-building structures with a smaller footprint at 196-204 Bulgarmarsh Road
- Continued application for an attached garage addition at 16 Windwood Drive to the January 4 meeting
- Approved minutes from August 3, August 10, and September 7, 2022 meetings
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Appeals heard an appeal by Colbea Enterprises of the Planning Board's denial of a master plan and building plan review for a 3,600-square-foot convenience store with a drive-through coffee shop and gas station at 0 Souza Road. The applicant argued the Planning Board made errors, while the Planning Board and residents defended the denial. The board closed the public hearing and continued the matter to January 4 for deliberations and a decision.
- Appeal of Planning Board denial for 0 Souza Road (Plat 119-Lot 624)
- Proposed 3,600 sq ft convenience store with drive-through coffee shop and gas station
- Discussion of Pedestrian Friendly Destination (PFD) zoning and Form Based Code
- Concerns about traffic, flooding, and proximity to Osborn-Bennet Historical District
- Public hearing closed; decision continued to January 4 meeting
Regular Town Council Meeting
This meeting combined the swearing-in of newly elected officials and the organizational meeting of the new Town Council, which elected Denise deMedeiros as president and Michael Burk as vice president. The council also approved numerous license renewals, including liquor, tobacco, junkyard, and entertainment licenses, and renewed the indoor shooting range license for Sakonnet River Outfitters despite resident concerns about gunshot noise.
- Approved entertainment license for Four Corners Arts Center, 28 East Road, occupancy limited to 130 persons
- Approved indoor shooting range renewal for Sakonnet River Outfitters, 777 Main Road, 6-1 vote
- Approved Class BV liquor license renewals for 15 establishments, including Bally's Casino & Hotel
- Approved tax abatements totaling $2,007.24
- Approved tobacco dealer and holiday license for Stateline Tobacco, 29 Stafford Road
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on November 14, 2022, covering consent agenda items, appointments, public hearings, and general business. Key actions included approving amendments to the solar energy and open burning ordinances, accepting a grant for police body-worn cameras, and tabling a short-term rental ordinance hearing. The council also discussed maintenance issues at Countryview Estates and approved several board appointments.
- Approved solar energy ordinance amendment (Appendix A, Article XXIV)
- Approved open burning ordinance amendment (Chapter 42, Article II)
- Accepted grant for body-worn cameras; approved AXON as vendor; authorized $2,816.16 from department funds
- Tabled Sakonnet River Outfitters holiday license renewal due to noise complaints
- Discussed Countryview Estates maintenance; agreed to meet with Hometown America
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held its regular meeting on October 24, 2022, approving consent agenda items, several board appointments, and multiple spending and contract items. Key actions included authorizing $471,000 in casino gaming funds for DPW and police equipment, ratifying a three-year contract for the new fire chief, and referring NorthPoint Development's zoning and street abandonment petitions to the Planning Board. The council also continued a public hearing on open burning ordinance amendments and several board appointments to the next meeting.
- Approved $471,000 from casino gaming funds for DPW equipment and police cruisers, with $164,850 expected USDA reimbursement
- Referred NorthPoint Development's zoning amendment and paper street abandonment petitions to Planning Board
- Ratified three-year Fire Chief contract for William S. Bailey III (passed 4-1)
- Approved $16,000 chipper repair and up to $27,000 plow truck repair
- Continued open burning ordinance hearing and Juvenile Hearing Board appointments to Nov 14
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held its regular meeting on October 11, 2022, covering routine approvals, public hearings, and appointments. Key actions included approving a liquor license transfer for Le Moulin Rouge, appointing a new municipal court judge, and approving funding for voter guides and public hearing advertisements. The council also entered executive session to discuss personnel and litigation, and afterward approved the nomination of William Bailey III as Fire Chief.
- Approved transfer of Class BV liquor license to Bistro Paris, Inc. d/b/a Le Moulin Rouge, 1403 Main Road, effective Dec 1, 2022
- Appointed Michael B. Forte, Jr. as Municipal Court Judge until November 2023
- Approved $5,200 for printing and mailing Voter Information Guide
- Approved funding to advertise public hearings on Short-Term Rentals and Solar Energy Systems ordinances for Nov 14, 2022
- Approved William Bailey III as Fire Chief, with contract negotiation to follow
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council approved a $1.3 million authorization from American Recovery Act funds to modernize the public radio communication system, with additional grants accepted for police vehicles and body armor. The council also discussed police staffing shortages, approved a statistical revaluation RFP, and continued a hearing on abandoning Patrick and Harrington Avenues.
- Authorized up to $1.3 million from ARPA funds for radio system modernization
- Accepted USDA grant of $164,850 for police and DPW vehicles
- Accepted Patrick Leahy Bulletproof Vest Partnership grant of $14,188.99
- Approved advertising RFP for statistical revaluation effective 12/31/2023
- Continued hearing on abandoning Patrick and Harrington Avenues for 30 days
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held its regular meeting on September 12, 2022, approving routine consent items, two sound variances, a farmers' market ordinance amendment, and several appointments. The council also authorized a school construction letter of intent, accepted a FEMA fire grant, and approved a USDA grant application for vehicles. Executive session votes on tax appeal settlements were not disclosed.
- Approved SBA Stage I Letter of Intent for school construction (5-1, Cook abstaining)
- Accepted FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant of $339,546.66 for radio systems
- Approved USDA grant application for police and public works vehicles (5-1, Cook abstaining)
- Approved amendment to Chapter 22 allowing farmers' markets on town/school property and Land Trust land
- Approved sound variance for Child Safety Day at Grinnell's Beach and wedding at 723 Seapowet Avenue
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review approved a dimensional variance for Carolynn and Steven Vallot to demolish an existing dwelling and build a new two-bedroom home at 146 Pelletier Lane. The board also reappointed officers and approved prior meeting minutes. The meeting was brief and focused on the single application.
- Approved dimensional variance for 146 Pelletier Lane (Plat 208, Lot 116-006) in R-60 district and Watershed Overlay
- Variance allows 6-foot front yard setback (40 feet required) and impervious surface above 10% (13.4% proposed)
- Project includes new Advanced Treatment OWTS, rain garden, and connection to shared well
- Condition: Stone Bridge Water District permits must be provided before building permit
- Reappointed Lise Gescheidt as Chairwoman, David Collins as Vice Chairman, Wendy Taylor Humphrey as Secretary
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to discuss and take preliminary action on several items. Council members heard presentations on FY23 capital budget requests from municipal departments and the school department, with votes deferred to an October special meeting. They also approved advertising for a public hearing on a sound variance for the Fourth Annual Child Safety Day at Grinnell's Beach and discussed a voter information guide for the November 8, 2022 ballot questions.
- Discussion of FY23 capital budget requests using $3,035,000 available from prior-year casino gaming revenue
- Approved advertising for a September 12, 2022 public hearing on a sound variance for Child Safety Day at Grinnell's Beach, waiving the associated fee
- Discussed and supported a Town Clerk proposal to provide a Voter Information Guide for the November 8, 2022 local ballot questions
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on August 22, 2022, approving routine consent agenda items, a sound variance for a wedding, and two tobacco dealer licenses. The council continued a public hearing on the petition to abandon Patrick Avenue and part of Harrington Avenue to allow for further research on road ownership and environmental concerns. They also discussed a request for resident parking stickers on Canonicus and Hooper Streets, referred it for ordinance development, and awarded a contract for Town Hall air conditioning.
- Approved sound variance and special event permit for wedding at 393 Seapowet Ave on Sept 10, 2022
- Approved tobacco dealer license for Smokers Paradise, LLC at 46 Main Road
- Continued tobacco license for Dizzy's Hookah Lounge at 525 Main Road to 9/28/22
- Continued public hearing on abandoning Patrick Avenue and part of Harrington Avenue to 9/28/22
- Awarded $8,000 contract to Mark Plympton d/b/a Hydronomics for Town Hall air conditioning
Zoning Board of Review
The Board approved two dimensional variances for a property in the Waterfront Zoning District to allow for building reconstruction and an addition. The changes aim to address existing fire hazards by improving ingress and egress.
- Approved 18.8% increase in lot coverage, moving from 25% to 43.8%
- Approved side yard setback variance of 3.1 feet, allowing a 1.9 foot setback instead of the required 5 feet
- Approved reconstruction of ingress and egress at 1763 Main Road
- Approved an 8-foot extension to the northwest of the existing living space
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council heard a presentation from Northpoint Development Corporation about a proposed $218 million development of the Tiverton Business Park, involving the sale of approximately 109 acres at $50,000 per acre. The council also approved a Memorandum of Understanding with Newport County Mental Health and the Tiverton Police Department, funded at $52,000 for the first year, to address behavioral health crises. Several other items were approved, including a new ordinance for Stone Bridge Docks, budget transfers, and appointments.
- Northpoint Development Corporation presentation: $218M, 1.736M sq ft, 275 acres, 109 acres sold at $50,000/acre
- Approved MOU with Newport County Mental Health and Tiverton Police Department, $52,000 first-year funding
- Approved Stone Bridge Docks ordinance amendment with $300/year fee and 12 tie-up locations via random drawing
- Approved $17,500 repair for 2006 John Deere 544J Front End Loader
- Approved 19 budget transfers totaling over $100,000, including $43,096.31 from staff salaries to personnel services
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review met but could not consider a dimensional variance request at 1763 Main Road because only four members were present, lacking a quorum. The board voted unanimously to continue the matter to August 10, 2022, or September 7, 2022, if needed. Approval of minutes from May and June meetings was also continued.
- Variance request by Matthew Rodgers for 1763 Main Road (Plat 305, Lot 112) to add 8-foot extension, increase lot coverage from 35% to 43.8%
- Petition continued due to lack of quorum
- Minutes from May 4 and June 1, 2022 meetings continued
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to discuss and vote on proposed charter amendments regarding the town's budget procedure and the Financial Town Referendum process. They approved two ballot questions for the November election, including changes to the budget committee size and signature requirements for petitions. The council also authorized forwarding these questions to the Board of Canvassers for certification.
- Approved ballot question 3, amending budget procedure and Financial Town Referendum process, including reducing elected Budget Committee from 11 to 7 members
- Amended Section 302(d) to reduce petition signature requirement from 500 to 300 (motion to reduce to 250 failed 3-3)
- Approved ballot question 4, specifying effective date if approved by voters
- Authorized solicitor and clerk to make non-substantive technical changes to ballot questions 3 and 4
- Forwarded ballot questions 3 and 4 to Board of Canvassers for certification for November ballot
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on July 25, 2022, addressing a range of items including public hearings, appointments, and general business. The most consequential item was a public hearing on proposed charter amendments that would shift final budget approval to the council, reduce the elected Budget Committee from 11 to 7 members, and change the Financial Town Referendum process. The council also approved a $7,500 Discover Newport grant for Middle Avenue gazebo roof repairs, awarded a contract for bituminous concrete crusher rental, and scheduled a special meeting on casino gaming revenue.
- Public hearing on charter amendments to change budget process and Financial Town Referendum, with special meeting set for August 3, 2022
- Approved $7,500 Discover Newport grant for Middle Avenue gazebo roof repairs
- Awarded contract to A.J. Potter Jr & Sons Inc. for Bituminous Concrete Crusher Rental for FY23
- Approved $4,900 Fire Department A/C purchase (6-1 vote)
- Scheduled special meeting on August 29, 2022, regarding casino gaming revenue
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council approved a resolution to place a ballot question before voters in November on whether to allow cannabis-related businesses in town, following state legalization. The council also approved a partnership between the police department and Newport County Mental Health for a mobile treatment pilot program, and authorized the police chief to apply for a state grant for body-worn cameras. Several other items were approved, including liquor and victualing licenses for Four Corners Grille, a special event license for a charity bike ride, and appointments of community service officers.
- Approved resolution for November ballot question on cannabis-related business licenses (R.I.G.L. § 21-28.11-13)
- Approved partnership between Tiverton Police Department and Newport County Mental Health for mobile treatment pilot
- Approved police chief's application for state body-worn camera grant (4-1, Councilor Cook opposed)
- Approved BVL liquor license and victualing license for Restiv LLC dba Four Corners Grille, 3841 Main Road
- Approved two-year contract extension with Church Community Housing Corp for CDBG grant administrative services (4-1, Councilor Cook opposed)
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held its regular meeting on June 27, 2022, and took action on several items. The council set a public hearing date for proposed charter amendments, approved multiple budget transfers, and authorized a traffic study. It also approved sound variances and special event permits for two charity events, and made several appointments and contract renewals.
- Set public hearing for July 25, 2022 on Charter amendments for Article III Financial Town Referendum (ballot questions 3 and 4)
- Approved budget transfers totaling over $100,000, including $20,000 for group health retiree and $28,503 for unfunded liability
- Authorized RFP for independent traffic study on impact of four major land developments on Main, Souza and Fish Roads
- Approved sound variances and special event permits for Singing Out Against Hunger at 1791 Main Road (8/28) and 2335 Main Road (8/26)
- Approved contract renewal with West Place Animal Sanctuary for one year and independent contractor agreement with Thomas Lima for video services
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council met to vote on several zoning, traffic, and administrative items. Key actions included approving sound variances for local events and amending the town code regarding parking penalties and stop streets.
- Renamed Spruce, Maple, Highland, Hemlock, and Beach Streets to A, B, C, Costa's Way, and E Street
- Approved $200,000 in ARPA funds for delayed OPEB contributions for FY2021 and FY2022
- Approved $6,000 grant and $6,685 ARPA funds for a new Fogland Beach gatehouse
- Amended Code of Ordinance Chapter 78 to allow fines for nonresidential parking violations
- Authorized a resolution in opposition to solar energy legislation HB 6676 and similar bills
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to discuss and vote on a tentative collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 1703, the firefighters' union. After a closed executive session on negotiations and arbitration, the council unanimously approved the contract covering July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2025.
- Approved collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 1703 for July 1, 2022–June 30, 2025
- Held closed executive session under RIGL 42-46-5(a)(2) for collective bargaining update
- Sealed executive session minutes unanimously
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review heard one application for a dimensional variance to build a breezeway connecting a garage to a house at 131 Canonicus Street. The board voted unanimously to grant the variance, citing hardship due to the substandard corner lot. The board also approved minutes from the April 6 meeting and adopted amended forms and rules of procedure.
- Granted dimensional variance of 20.75 feet for a 350 sq ft breezeway at 131 Canonicus Street (R-30 zone)
- Approved minutes of April 6, 2022 meeting
- Adopted amended forms and rules of procedure for variances, special use permits, and appeals
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting covering consent agenda approvals, public hearings on proposed ordinance amendments, and various business items. Key discussions included a proposed amendment to restrict non-resident beach access at certain times, a proposal to allow fire pits on town beaches, and charter amendments related to personnel changes. The council approved several items, including tax abatements, a special event permit, and a recycling center relocation, while continuing or tabling other matters.
- Approved tax assessor abatements totaling $68,061.67
- Continued public hearing on beach access restrictions for non-residents (Section 54-30) to a future date
- No action taken on proposed fire pit ordinance for town-owned beaches after public opposition
- Approved charter amendments for ballot questions on personnel changes (4-0-1, Cook abstaining)
- Approved relocation of Recycling Center to lots 813, 814, 815, 817, 818 and Pare Engineering contract
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on May 9, 2022, approving a consent agenda, several ordinance amendments, and numerous contracts and funding requests. Key actions included approving ARPA fund requests totaling over $213,000, awarding multiple DPW contracts, and amending beach parking pass fees. Several items were continued to the next meeting, including a sound variance request and a request to abandon a portion of Chace Avenue.
- Approved ARPA fund requests: $3,000 for cemetery tripod, $10,225.70 for AED equipment, $65,037.70 for outdoor fitness equipment, $25,915.05 for IT server, $109,359.40 for Oshean Broadband at police station
- Awarded DPW contracts to T. Miozzi, LLC (paving), L.B. Corp dba Tiverton Materials (aggregates), Ferguson Waterworks (HDPE pipe, catch basins), LAL Construction (landfill cover), Sealcoating Inc. (crack sealing), K5 Corporation (line painting), ACME Sanitary Service (septic pumping, inspections), Rich McGee & Son Excavating (mowing)
- Approved ordinance amendments: casino gaming revenue reserve accounts, parking prohibitions on Industrial Way and Progress Road, and beach parking pass fees (including free passes for active duty/veterans and RV passes at Fogland)
- Approved $12,000 for Tiverton Middle School softball field renovations from Tiverton Power contribution
- Approved prohibiting construction debris (July 1, 2022) and yard waste (October 31, 2022) at Town Transfer Station
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review heard one application for a dimensional variance and approved it, allowing a residential dwelling to be built on a lot at Laura Street despite insufficient frontage. The board also approved revised rules of procedure. The meeting was brief and largely procedural.
- Granted 39 feet of frontage relief for a lot at Laura Street (Plat 118, Lot 291) in the R-30 zone, allowing construction of a residential dwelling
- Approved revised Rules of Procedure for the board
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on April 25, 2022, approving a consent agenda, several public hearing items, and numerous general business items. Key actions included approving DPW budget transfers, a contract extension with Cintas, hiring Xtreme Grinding for yard waste, and a salary increase for Police Chief Patrick Jones. The council also referred street abandonment petitions to the Planning Department and scheduled public hearings on parking ordinance changes and a Planning Board fee schedule.
- Approved $12,000, $8,000, $9,000, $13,590, and $140 DPW budget transfers
- Approved extension of FY2020-2022 contract with Cintas Corporation for uniform rental
- Granted DPW permission to hire Xtreme Grinding for yard waste at Landfill, cost not to exceed $16,000
- Approved salary increase for Police Chief Patrick Jones, effective December 14, 2021
- Approved use of up to $12,000 from Tiverton Power contribution for Middle School Softball field renovations
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on April 11, 2022, addressing a public hearing on extending Sakonnet River Outfitters' hours, approving the change with restrictions on firearm discharge times and calibers. The council also approved consent agenda items, accepted resignations, made several board appointments, and authorized opioid settlements and budget transfers.
- Approved Sakonnet River Outfitters hours change to 9am-9pm daily, with no firearm discharges before noon Mon-Fri and only 9mm or smaller on Sunday 5-9pm (5-1 vote)
- Continued Portsmouth-Tiverton Rotary Club's sound variance for Father's Day Car Show to April 25, 2022
- Authorized signing of Teva and Allergan Opioid Settlements, retroactive to March 28, 2022
- Approved budget transfers totaling $6,571.36 for software maintenance and beach supplies
- Approved advertising 2022 Beach Fees proposal and ordinance amendments for public hearings
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Appeals voted 4-1 to uphold a zoning violation notice issued to Four Corners Properties, LLC, for holding weddings and erecting a tent without proper permits at 28 East Road. The board found that the 2014 special use permit was invalid because it was granted without proper notice and the board lacked authority, and that the appeal was filed after the deadline. The board denied the appeal, leaving the property owner to pursue the matter in court.
- Appeal of violation notice dated September 27, 2021 regarding weddings and tent at 28 East Road (Plat 706-Lot 111)
- Board determined 2014 special use permit was invalid due to lack of proper notice to Newport Water Department and lack of authority
- Appeal filed January 25, 2022, after the December 24, 2021 deadline
- Motion to uphold violation passed 4-1, with George Alzaibak dissenting
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review unanimously approved a dimensional variance allowing Richard Westlake to build a three-car garage 20 feet from the front yard setback (30 feet less than the required 50 feet) at 509 Nanaquaket Road Rear. The board also approved minutes from January and March 2022 meetings and discussed revisions to rules of procedure, continuing that discussion to the May 4 meeting.
- Granted 30-foot front yard setback variance for a proposed 25x40 foot garage at 509 Nanaquaket Road Rear (Plat 403, Lot 127)
- Approved meeting minutes from January 5, 2022 and March 2, 2022
- Discussed revised rules of procedure, including continuance procedures and a 10 pm meeting cutoff; continued to May 4, 2022
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Town Council reviewed fire code violations and parking concerns at Longplex Sports Center. The Council also approved a sound variance for the Cultural Survival Bazaar and discussed potential new stop signs in Brayton Woods.
- Approved sound variance for Cultural Survival Bazaar at Four Corners Arts Center
- Discussed fire code citations and parking issues at Longplex Sports Center
- Referred request for four new stop signs in Brayton Woods to the Police Chief
- Approved funds to advertise bids for various DPW supplies including paving and gravel
- Authorized application for US Senate funding for a public safety radio project
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council approved adding $1.3 million for high school locker room improvements to the RIDE Stage II capital plan, noting no funds are currently appropriated. The body also allocated $1.2 million in American Recovery Plan Act funds for Department of Public Works paving over the next two fiscal years. Additionally, the council voted to advertise for a part-time mechanic and agreed to seek formal quotes for other infrastructure projects.
- Approved adding $1,300,000 for high school locker room improvements to the RIDE Stage II capital plan (4-1 vote).
- Allocated $600,000 for FY22 and $600,000 for FY23 for DPW-Paving from American Recovery Plan Act funds.
- Approved advertising for a part-time mechanic position in the Department of Public Works.
- Agreed to seek formal quotes for Sewer Interceptor, Broadband, Radio Communications/IT systems, and Senior Center siding.
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting, approving consent agenda items, a grant policy ordinance, and several appointments. They discussed a potential $1.3 million school project with state reimbursement, approved a $50,000 allocation for summer events, and authorized various budget transfers and contracts. The meeting also included a closed executive session on firefighter union negotiations.
- Discussed adding $1.3 million school project to RIDE's Stage II for state reimbursement; formal vote scheduled for 3/21/2022
- Approved ordinance establishing a Town Council policy for applying for grants (6-1)
- Approved $50,000 from Tiverton Power LLC donation to Recreation Commission for summer events
- Approved DPW budget transfers totaling $53,285 for snow removal, sand, salt, and other accounts
- Authorized RFP for mowing/maintenance and cemetery operations at Pocasset Hill Cemetery
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council reviewed and voted on various line items within the upcoming fiscal year budget. The session included specific allocations for the police and fire departments, as well as revenue estimates.
- Approved $22,306,965 for the total Municipal Budget
- Approved $3,876,867 for the Police Department
- Approved $3,279,315 for the Fire Department
- Approved a final Revenue Estimate of $12,902,432
- Decreased Historical Cemeteries Commission budget to $3,500
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to review and vote on individual line items for the FY 2022/2023 budget, as submitted by the Town Administrator. The council approved numerous departmental budgets, including Public Works, Legal Services, and Library Services, with most votes passing 6-0. A few items, such as Civic Appropriations and Economic Development Commission, passed 5-1 with Councilor Cook opposed. The meeting also included discussions on Harbor Master, Senior Center, and a $3,000 request from Newport County Mental Health.
- Approved $1,153,899 for Public Works
- Approved $320,000 for Legal Services
- Approved $603,000 for Library Services
- Approved $1,043,000 for Rubbish/Recycling Collection
- Discussed $3,000 contribution request from Newport County Mental Health
Zoning Board of Review
The Zoning Board of Review heard several petitions regarding property variances and permits. The Board denied a request from Bally’s Tiverton Casino & Hotel to replace three existing signs with larger, internally lit red channel letter signs, citing concerns over driver distraction and compatibility with the community plan.
- Denied application for Bally's Casino signage expansion (8ft x 18ft 4in proposed)
- Approved dimensional variance for a two-car garage at 116 Lawton Ave
- Denied continuance request for an ATM project at 567 Main Road
- Continued application for a three-car garage at 509 Nanaquaket Road to April 6
- Erroneous inclusion of a variance for 35 Hancock Street on the agenda
Zoning Board of Appeals
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Appeals met on March 2, 2022, to hear a single zoning appeal. The appeal, filed by Rosalind Weir against Four Corners Properties, LLC, was not heard because the applicant submitted a 200-page filing the day before the meeting, violating the 10-day submission requirement. The Board continued the matter to its next regular meeting on April 6, 2022.
- Appeal of Four Corners Properties, LLC, 28 East Road (Plat 706-Lot 111), R-80 zone
- Appeal of violation notice dated September 27, 2021 regarding weddings and unpermitted tent
- Petition filed by Rosalind Weir, PO Box 98 Adamsville, RI
- Matter continued to April 6, 2022 due to late 200-page filing
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Town Council reviewed the FY 2022/2023 budget for the Tax Assessor and Tax Collector offices. Members also discussed potential amendments to ordinance Section 2-107 regarding casino gaming revenue and referred several street names to the Planning Board for review.
- Referred renaming of Spruce, Maple, Highland, Hemlock, and Beach Streets to the Planning Board
- Awarded contract to Election Data Services for Reprecincting Consultant Services
- Approved National Grid Joint Pole Petition for Nonquit Lane, Poles 5 & 6
- Extended Dadson Mobile Home-Park License through 11/30/2022
- Appointed Ryan C. Petri to the Town Farm Renovation Committee
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to review and discuss the FY 2022/2023 budget, including line items for police, fire, library, legal services, parks and recreation, and the town clerk. Department heads presented their budget requests and answered council questions. The council reached consensus to eliminate an Event Coordinator position and reduce community events funding to $10K. No final budget votes were taken; further review meetings are scheduled for March 5 and March 8, 2022.
- FY 2022/2023 budget review with line items for police, fire, library, legal, parks, town clerk
- Library budget requests net 2% increase of $12,000
- Police budget includes COPS Grant impact and IBPO contract increase
- Parks and Recreation: council consensus to eliminate Event Coordinator and cut community events to $10K
- Board of Canvassing adds $21,000 for projected FY23 election expenses
CANCELLED - Feb. 21, 2022 - Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council cancelled its special meeting scheduled for February 21, 2022. The agenda had listed a discussion and potential preliminary votes on the FY 2022/2023 budget, including line items for Public Works, Debt Service, and the Town Administrator. No decisions were made because the meeting did not take place.
- Meeting cancelled due to state of emergency guidance
- FY 2022/2023 Budget review was the sole general business item
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a special meeting to review and discuss the FY 2022/2023 budget, focusing on police and public works department requests. Police salary discussions were tabled due to missing spreadsheet data, while other budget items were reviewed. The council also cancelled a previously scheduled meeting and rescheduled budget reviews for February 26, 2022.
- Police Chief proposed 3% raises for himself and deputy chief; tabled due to missing data
- DPW budget includes increases for road salt, landfill closure, and tipping fees
- Solicitor proposed rate increase from $160/hr to $175-$180/hr for legal services
- National Opioid Settlement funds may support addiction outreach services
- Special meeting rescheduled from Feb 21 to Feb 26, 2022
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting, approving a new ordinance for mobile food establishments, a $496,300 contract addendum for landfill closure oversight, and a school capital plan submission. They also discussed casino revenue allocation, waterfront dock improvements, and made several board appointments.
- Approved ordinance for Mobile Food Establishments with $300 special event permit fee and hours 8am-10pm
- Awarded $28,880 contract to A.J. Potter & Sons for bituminous concrete crushing rental
- Approved $496,300 contract addendum with Pare Corporation for landfill closure oversight
- Approved school capital plan submission of $1,328,974 for HS/MS toilet renovations and athletic field light poles
- Appointed members to Cemetery, Open Space, Solar Ordinance, Juvenile Hearing, and Budget committees
Joint Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council met jointly with the School Committee to discuss the proposed five-year School Department Capital Plan, which is to be submitted to the Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) for approval and potential reimbursement. The Council discussed the submission process and deadlines but did not vote, as Council President deMedeiros requested draft documents for review to ensure consistency with prior approvals. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no other substantive items on the agenda.
- Discussion of proposed Tiverton School Department Five Year Capital Plan for RIDE submission
- Possible vote on capital plan deferred pending review of documents
- Stage 1 Letter of Intent submitted to RIDE School Building Authority; Stage 2 submission contemplated for September 15
- Building Committee first met January 12, 2022; proposed to include two Town Council members
- Council requested draft letter of support from RGB Architects for RIDE
Special Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council voted unanimously to authorize the Town Administrator to apply for a federal Safer Grant to fund four new firefighter positions for three years, addressing staffing shortages ahead of a state law requirement. The Council also discussed a proposed Short Term Rental (STR) ordinance, deciding to send it back to the Solicitor for modifications before any Planning Board review. A joint meeting with the School Committee was scheduled for February 8, 2022.
- Authorized Safer Grant application for four entry-level firefighters, funded for three years, with no match required but town to cover uniforms and training.
- Discussed proposed Short Term Rental ordinance; sent back to Solicitor for modifications, including possible disallowance in R30/R40 zones and off-street parking requirements.
- Appointed Councilors Jay Edwards and Mike Burk to the Solar Ordinance Advisory Committee.
- Scheduled joint Town Council/School Committee meeting for February 8, 2022 at 6 p.m.
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council approved several items, including a $250,000 COPS grant for police officers, school capital project bids totaling over $163,000, and authorization to apply for a $250,000 grant for Fogland resiliency improvements. They also approved a resolution to change state law on school construction deadlines and tabled a decision on the Safer Grant for firefighters until the next meeting.
- Approved $250,000 US DOJ COPS grant for police officers
- Approved school capital project bids totaling $163,077.39 (siding, dishwasher, streamer, lawn mowers, intercom)
- Authorized grant application for Fogland resiliency with up to $33,631 cash match
- Approved resolution to extend school construction deadline to December 30, 2023
- Tabled Safer Grant application for firefighters until January 31, 2022
Regular Town Council Meeting
The Tiverton Town Council held a regular meeting on January 10, 2022, covering routine approvals, appointments, and several significant business items. Key actions included awarding contracts for turf management, surplus equipment, and heating oil, as well as discussing a $250,000 police officer grant and a landfill closure update. The council tabled the police grant discussion and the audit report presentation to the next meeting on January 24, 2022.
- Awarded contract to GS Lawn & Garden for recreational facility and turf management services for 2022
- Awarded contract to Excel Recycling, LLC for DPW surplus equipment and police surplus vehicles ($11,000)
- Ratified contract with Casey's Oil & Propane for #2 heating oil at $2.42/gallon
- Discussed $250,000 COPS hiring grant for two police officers; tabled to next meeting
- Landfill closure update: recommended J. H. Lynch as low bidder at $11,402,750; vote next meeting
Zoning Board of Review
The Tiverton Zoning Board of Review heard two variance requests at its January 5, 2022 meeting. It granted a front-yard setback variance for a proposed two-stall garage at 35 Hancock Street and a size variance for a 1,536-square-foot pole barn at 70 Jacqueline Way. The board also approved July 2021 meeting minutes, continued action on September and November minutes due to lack of quorum, and discussed proposed amended forms and rules of procedure.
- Granted 8.1-foot front-yard setback variance for a 28x40-foot garage at 35 Hancock Street (Special Use Permit 567 Main Road ATM @ Dollar General continued to Feb. 2)
- Granted variance to build 1,536-square-foot pole barn at 70 Jacqueline Way, exceeding the 864-square-foot accessory structure limit by 672 square feet
- Approved July 2021 meeting minutes (5-0-1, Schober abstaining)
- Continued September and November 2021 minutes to Feb. 2 due to lack of quorum
- Discussed proposed amended forms and rules of procedure, continued to Feb. 2
Joint Town Council Meeting
The Town Council, School Committee, and Budget Committee held a joint workshop to discuss the Fiscal Year 2021/2022 budget. They reviewed gaming revenue allocations for school and municipal capital needs, noted upcoming budget discussions, and mentioned ongoing union contract negotiations. The meeting was largely informational, with no formal votes taken.
- Gaming monies: $2,000,000 for School capital, $1,100,000 for Municipal capital
- Municipal preliminary budget to be discussed at January 10 Council meeting
- School Committee to review first budget draft at next meeting; State Aid expected to drop
- Union contract negotiations: Teamsters, AFSCME, IAFF (municipal); NEA and Council 94 (school)
- Audit report for fiscal year ending June 30, 2021 to be available shortly