West Warwick public meetings in 2025
56 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved a $315,000 contract with JR Construction Solutions LLC to replace the roof and parapet walls at Town Hall, the Police Department, and the Fire Department. The council also authorized a $218,228.99 purchase of hardware and software to upgrade the town's network infrastructure and a $26,163 purchase of ballistic vests for the Police Department. Tax cancellations totaling $30,653.18 were approved for 4 Monte Clair Drive and Quaker West Corp, and several business licenses were granted.
- Resolution authorizing $315,000 roof and parapet work for Town Hall, Police and Fire Departments (JR Construction Solutions LLC)
- Resolution authorizing $218,228.99 purchase of hardware and software for network infrastructure
- Approval of $26,163 purchase of ballistic vests for the Police Department
- Tax cancellations approved for 4 Monte Clair Drive and Quaker West Corp totaling $30,653.18
- Approval of business licenses for donation bin, raffle, filling station, victualing, and Santa Tour parade
Spec. Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council and School Committee met for a statutory pre-budget consultation. Officials shared preliminary revenue and expenditure projections for the upcoming budget. No votes were taken during the meeting.
- Review of preliminary revenue and expenditure projections by the School Committee and Town Council
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The Planning Board will review and approve the October 6, 2025 meeting minutes. It will hold a public hearing on a minor land development application for a four‑unit condominium at 112 West Street, which has been rescheduled to the January 5, 2026 meeting. The Board will also vote on the 2026 meeting schedule. A public comment period is provided before adjournment.
- Review and approval of October 6, 2025 meeting minutes
- Public hearing on Minor Land Development – 4‑unit condo at 112 West Street (rescheduled to Jan 5, 2026)
- Approval of the 2026 meeting schedule
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved the minutes from the November 4 meeting and acted on several licensing items. Council members voted to grant Love My Kitchen & Bar LLC a Class BV liquor license for its premises at 943 Main Street, as well as theatrical performance and victualing licenses for the same business. The council also renewed a large number of existing Victualing House and 24‑Hour Victualing House licenses, and approved the renewal of Constable licenses for multiple individuals.
- Class BV liquor license for Love My Kitchen & Bar LLC, 943 Main Street
- Theatrical Performances license for Love My Kitchen & Bar LLC
- Victualing license for Love My Kitchen & Bar LLC
- Renewal of Victualing House licenses for dozens of local businesses
- Renewal of Constable licenses for listed constables
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The Technical Review Committee will consider a revised development plan submitted by Coco Pacheco for four market‑rate condominium units on the lot at 112 West Street, which is zoned R‑8 Residential. The proposal includes a drainage easement that must be addressed. The committee will discuss the application and determine whether to recommend approval.
- Revised development plan for 4 market‑rate condominiums at 112 West Street
- Inclusion of a drainage easement on the lot
- Application filed by Coco Pacheco (Plat 005, Lot 0653)
- Lot is zoned R‑8 Residential
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved renewals for various liquor licenses and business permits, appointed a member to the School Building Committee, and approved a solicitor services agreement and a $36,400 tax abatement.
- Approval of liquor license renewals for 50+ businesses
- Appointment of John Read to School Building Committee
- Agreement with Ursillo, Teitz, & Ritch for solicitor services
- Maintenance agreement with Trane US for ice chiller system
- Tax abatement of $36,400.24
Sewer Commission Meeting
The West Warwick Sewer Commission accepted the minutes from the September 16, 2025 meeting (Resolution SC2025-26). The superintendent reported an average daily flow of 4.0 mgd and noted seven odor complaints, primarily at night. The industrial pretreatment program issued a $500.00 administrative penalty to Amtrol for a zinc violation and noted other facility updates. The commission approved Resolution SC2025-27, a change order for the East Natick Interceptor Rehabilitation Project.
- Resolution SC2025-26: acceptance of September 16, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑0 vote).
- Superintendent report: average daily flow 4.0 mgd; seven odor complaints reported.
- Amtrol received a $500.00 administrative penalty for a zinc parameter violation.
- Year‑to‑date operating and debt expenses total $3,336,640; pending $1.65 million reimbursement from RIIB.
- Resolution SC2025-27: change order approval for East Natick Interceptor Rehabilitation Project (5‑0 vote).
Town Council Mtg.
The council appointed the law firm Ursillo, Teitz & Ritch as special legal counsel and designated it as the town solicitor effective July 1 2026. The consent agenda was approved, including a tax cancellation of $1,888.90. Council members passed Ordinance #2025-10, adding a “Do Not Enter” restriction on Campbell Street. Several business licenses, including pawnbroker and donation bin permits, were renewed.
- Appointment of Ursillo, Teitz & Ritch as special legal counsel and future town solicitor (effective July 1 2026)
- Tax assessor request to cancel taxes in the amount of $1,888.90
- Ordinance #2025-10: Motor Vehicle Restricted Routes – “Do Not Enter” Campbell Street
- Renewal of pawnbroker licenses for Gendron’s Jewelers, Inc. (225 Cowesett Ave) and Fall River Pawnbrokers (288 Cowesett Ave)
- Renewal of donation bin licenses for organizations such as Society of St. Vincent De Paul and Planet Aid
Bd. of Canvassers Meeting
The West Warwick Board of Canvassers will approve the minutes from its October 8 and October 9, 2025 meetings. It will certify the results of the October 8, 2025 school bond referendum. The agenda also includes a public comment period before adjournment.
- Certification of the results of the October 8, 2025 School Bond Referendum
- Approval of the minutes of the October 8, 2025 meeting
- Approval of the minutes of the October 9, 2025 meeting
- Public comment
Town Council Mtg.
The Town Council will hold a special meeting to discuss the selection and appointment process for Solicitor Services. This item is scheduled for discussion and potential action within an Executive Session.
- Selection and contract negotiation for Solicitor Services: Ursillo, Teitz & Ritch
- Selection and contract negotiation for Solicitor Services: Gidley, Sarli & Marusak
- Selection and contract negotiation for Solicitor Services: Lepizzera and Laprocina
Bd. of Canvassers Meeting
The Board of Canvassers met to oversee the conduct of the West Warwick School Bond Referendum. The board certified mail ballot applications and approved minutes from the September 11, 2025 meeting.
- Certification of mail ballot applications
- Conduct of the West Warwick School Bond Referendum at 100 Factory Street
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council considered a range of items, including a proclamation for Mobile Integrated Healthcare Week, a development proposal for the former post office at 1190 Main Street, and several ordinances. The council approved business licenses, appointed members to various boards, and adopted a resolution moving FY2025 surplus funds from General Fund 100 to Special Revenue Fund 850. It also authorized a purchase for fire‑department turnout‑gear cleaning and payment of a property‑damage claim from Rhode Island Energy.
- Presentation on proposed 43‑unit redevelopment of 1190 Main Street (former post office) and related parking discussion
- Ordinance #2025-5 (No Parking Kulas Road) failed on second reading
- Ordinance #2025-6 (Cannabis retail sales amendment) passed on second reading
- Resolution transferring FY2025 surplus funds from General Fund 100 to Special Revenue Fund 850
- Fire Department request approved for purchase of turnout‑gear cleaning and inspection services
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The Planning Board will approve the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes and review two minor subdivision applications—one continued for Ken Corsi at 476 Providence Street and one to be heard de novo for Nicholas Lombardi at 2 Fairgreen Drive. The board will also recommend to the Town Council the release of the Improvement Guarantee for the June Carr Development on June Court.
- Approve September 8, 2025 meeting minutes
- Ken Corsi minor subdivision (Plat 35, Lots 14 & 28) at 476 Providence Street, Residential R-7.5 – continued
- Nicholas Lombardi minor subdivision (Plat 28, Lot 1) at 2 Fairgreen Drive, Residential R-8 – de novo due to lack of quorum
- Recommend release of Improvement Guarantee for June Carr Development (Assessor’s Plat 13, Lot 10) on June Court, Residential R-10
Town Council Mtg.
The Town Council approved its consent agenda, including cancellation of $7,010.65 in taxes. It adopted three ordinances, notably a zoning code amendment that permits cannabis retail sales. The council also granted several business licenses and provided an update on the school bond referendum materials.
- Cancellation of taxes in the amount of $7,010.65 as requested by the Tax Assessor
- Ordinance #2025-5 – Motor Vehicle Restricted Route and No Parking on Kulas Road
- Ordinance #2025-6 – Amendment to the zoning code to allow cannabis retail sales
- Ordinance #2025-9 – Amendments to multiple sections of the West Warwick Zoning Code
- Business licenses: 24‑hour victualling license for Café Aristao Luka; entertainment license for Community Marketing LLC event at 100 Factory Street; raffle license for West Warwick 250th Commission
Sewer Commission Meeting
The West Warwick Sewer Commission accepted minutes from prior meetings, reviewed August operational data, and presented the FY2025 financial report. It approved two resolutions: rescinding the bid award for analytical laboratory services (SC2025-24) and a change order for the East Natick Interceptor Project (SC2025-25). The meeting also noted odor complaints on Fernwood Drive and Enfield Drive and issued $100 penalties to several food‑service establishments for wastewater violations.
- Resolution SC2025-24 rescinding bid award for analytical laboratory services
- Resolution SC2025-25 change order for East Natick Interceptor Project
- Average daily flow reported at 3.6 mgd (max 11.8 mgd, min 1 mgd)
- FY2025 operating and debt expenses totaled $8,984,247 (94% of budget)
- $100 penalties issued to food‑service businesses for wastewater violations
Bd. of Canvassers Meeting
The Board of Canvassers met to approve the final canvass, warrant, and poll worker certifications for the October 8, 2025 School Bond Referendum. The board also certified mail ballot applications for the upcoming vote.
- Certification of Final Canvass for October 8 School Bond Referendum with 22,521 total voters
- Approval of the October 8 School Bond Referendum warrant, including early voting until 4:00 P.M. on election day
- Certification of poll workers for the October 8 referendum, including Moderator Martha Perry Morrisette
- Certification of mail ballot applications for the October 8 School Bond Referendum
Town Council Mtg.
The Town Council approved several zoning ordinances and funding for municipal equipment. The body also discussed preparations for a school bond referendum scheduled for October 8, 2025.
- Approved $32,161.90 for Police Department cruiser upfitting
- Approved $49,680.00 for the rental of two plow trucks for the Department of Public Works
- Passed Ordinance #2025-7 regarding fence standards and Ordinance #2025-8 regarding zoning use and dimensional regulations
- Advanced Ordinance #2025-6 (cannabis retail sales) and Ordinance #2025-9 (zoning code amendments) to second reading
- Approved pole installation on Maid Marion Lane and relocations on Green Bush Avenue and Nottingham Drive
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board will consider five applications at this meeting. Three are minor subdivisions with frontage variances on Earl Street, Providence Street, and Fairgreen Drive. One is an adaptive re‑use of a commercial building at 12 Factory Street into eight residential units. One is a minor land development for the Islamic School of RI, Inc. at 848 Providence Street adding a 5,000‑sq‑ft building with a lot‑coverage variance.
- Minor subdivision with frontage variance – Cosmo Properties, 15 Earl Street, Residential (R-8)
- Adaptive re‑use – LaCroix Holdings, LLC, 12 Factory Street, Business (B) to 8 residential units
- Minor subdivision with frontage variance – Ken Corsi, 476 Providence Street, Residential (R-7.5)
- Minor land development – Islamic School of RI, Inc., 848 Providence Street, Residential (R-10), 5,000 sq ft building with lot‑coverage variance
- Minor subdivision with lot‑coverage variance – Nicholas Lombardi, 2 Fairgreen Drive, Residential (R-8)
Town Council Mtg.
The Town Council approved the ballot language for a $71 million school bond referendum scheduled for October 8, 2025. The body also authorized a retirement system payment and discussed several zoning and traffic ordinances.
- Approval of $71,000,000 bond ballot question for school facilities
- Payment of $1,029,635 from General Fund Surplus to Employees Retirement System of Rhode Island
- First reading of Ordinance #2025-5 regarding no parking on Kulas Road
- Class A Liquor License approved for Joyal’s Liquor at 90 West Warwick Avenue
- Approval of Memorandum of Agreement between Town of West Warwick and I.B.P.O. Local 312
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board will hold a preliminary plan public hearing for an adaptive‑reuse project at 819 Providence Street. The applicant, Natick School House LLC, seeks to convert the existing school building into 24 apartments. The proposal includes a parking variance for one car per unit with an off‑site lot located within 100 feet. The board will also review and approve the minutes from the July 7, 2025 meeting.
- Approval of July 7, 2025 meeting minutes
- Public hearing on adaptive‑reuse of 819 Providence Street
- Proposed conversion of existing school to 24 apartments
- Parking variance request: one car per unit, off‑site lot within 100 ft
- Project located in Residential (R‑6) zoning district
Town Council Mtg.
The Town Council approved a contract for the East Natick Interceptor project and authorized funding for a Police Navigator. Members also received a detailed update on school building renovations and capacity changes. A proposed traffic ordinance for Manor Drive was defeated.
- Awarded $1,421,800.00 to National Water Main Cleaning Company for the East Natick Interceptor project
- Authorized $116,411.00 from Opioid Settlement Funds for Police Navigator salary and benefits for FY2026
- Proposed school projects including $48-50M for Maisie Quinn and $4-5M for 30 Payan Street
- Defeated Ordinance #2025-4 regarding motor vehicle restricted routes on Manor Drive
- Approved indoor-only amplifier license for Fusion Latin and Caribbean Cuisine
POSTPONED Jul. 8, 2025 - Town Council Mtg.
The July 8 meeting was postponed due to a power failure affecting Zoom capabilities. All scheduled items, including police equipment purchases and liquor license requests, will be considered on July 15.
- Police Department request for a Chevrolet Tahoe not to exceed $58,708.00
- Police Department request for SWAT team and training equipment not to exceed $41,285.50
- Class A Liquor License request for Joyal’s Liquor at 90 West Warwick Avenue
- First reading of Ordinance #2025-4 regarding motor vehicle restricted routes on Manor Drive
- Support funds for The West Warwick Veterans Council in the amount of $1,500.00
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board will review and approve the minutes from the May 5, 2025 and June 2, 2025 meetings. It will also discuss a continued request for a bond release to fund remaining site improvements at the Vila Nova property located at 550 Wakefield Street. The request is submitted by Mourato Remodeling and the property is zoned Residential (R-10). No other agenda items are listed.
- Approval of May 5, 2025 and June 2, 2025 meeting minutes
- Continued request for bond release for Vila Nova site improvements at 550 Wakefield Street (Applicant: Mourato Remodeling, Residential R-10 zone)
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council adopted a traffic ordinance amendment for St. Mary Street and postponed a similar amendment for Manor Drive to the July 8 meeting. It approved contracts with LeftField and Tecton to oversee and provide engineering services for the Payan Street school building project, and authorized the sale of a $60,000 tower ladder truck to the Rhode Island Fire Academy. Additional actions included a tax cancellation of $839.40, scholarship payments, and various licensing and land‑acquisition authorizations.
- Second reading of Ordinance #2025-3 amending traffic restrictions on St. Mary Street
- First reading of Ordinance #2025-4 amending traffic restrictions on Manor Drive, continued to July 8
- Approval of contracts with LeftField and Tecton for oversight and engineering services for the Payan Street SBC Project
- Resolution authorizing sale of a Pierce 85’ tower ladder truck to the RI Fire Academy for $60,000
- Cancellation of taxes in the amount of $839.40 as requested by the Tax Assessor
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved the FY2026 Tax Levy Resolution, setting the town's tax rates for the next fiscal year. The council also awarded a $4,719,000 three‑year contract to Mega MTG Disposal for comprehensive collection services and a $34,050 three‑year contract for emergency generator maintenance. Additionally, the council moved Ordinance #2025-3 concerning St. Mary Street to a second reading and formally recognized “K‑9 Mouse” as the town’s first police therapy dog.
- Approval of FY2026 Tax Levy Resolution
- Bid award to Mega MTG Disposal for up to $4,719,000 for collection services (3‑year contract)
- Bid award to Generator’s MD, LLC for $34,050 for emergency generator maintenance (3‑year contract)
- First reading of Ordinance #2025-3 amending motor vehicle restricted routes on St. Mary Street
- Recognition of “K‑9 Mouse” as an official police therapy/compassion dog
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board will review and approve the minutes from its May 5, 2025 meeting. It will consider a request from Mourato Remodeling for a bond release to fund remaining improvements at the Vila Nova property located at 550 Wakefield Street, which is in Residential (R‑10) zoning (Assessor’s Plat 38, Lot 134). The meeting also includes a period for public comment before adjournment.
- Approval of May 5, 2025 meeting minutes
- Bond release request for Vila Nova site improvements at 550 Wakefield Street
- Applicant: Mourato Remodeling
- Zoning District: Residential (R‑10)
- Assessor’s Plat 38, Lot 134
Zoning Bd. Meeting
The West Warwick Zoning Board of Review will hold a hearing on May 28, 2025 at 7:00 PM. The hearing concerns Petition No. 2025‑2 submitted by Steven Morton for 41 Cowesett Avenue, a property in zone R 7.5. The applicant seeks a dimensional variance to remove an existing garage foundation, pave a driveway, increase allowable lot coverage from 25 % to between 33 % and 35 %, and reduce the required driveway setback from 6 feet to 3 feet.
- Dimensional variance request to remove garage foundation at 41 Cowesett Avenue
- Pave existing and future driveway
- Increase lot coverage limit from 25% to 33‑35%
- Reduce driveway setback from 6 ft to 3 ft
Sewer Commission Meeting
The West Warwick Sewer Commission approved the Fiscal Year 2026 budget, which includes a rate increase from $4.65 to $4.80 per 100 cubic feet. The new billing structure calculates charges on 90% of water consumption and lowers the minimum billing threshold.
- Adoption of WWTF FY26 Budget (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)
- Rate increase from $4.65 to $4.80 per 100 cubic feet
- Billing calculation changed from 80% to 90% of water consumption
- Minimum consumption for billing decreased from 4,000 to 3,800 cubic feet
- Lower application fee of $100 proposed for small businesses
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board will meet to review a minor subdivision application at 26 Vine Street. The applicant seeks a variance for frontage and an area variance for Sub Lot A due to proximity to a floodplain.
- Review of minor subdivision at 26 Vine Street
- Variance request for frontage
- Area variance for Sub Lot A
- Flood Elevation Certificate required
Budget Vote
The Town Council voted to adopt the FY2026 General Fund Budget and the Civic Center Enterprise Fund budget. The General Fund budget includes a 1.73% tax increase, setting the rate for single-family homes at $14.29 per thousand.
- Adoption of FY2026 General Fund Budget in the amount of $125,348,771
- Adoption of FY2026 Civic Center Enterprise Fund budget in the amount of $790,186
- Tax rate for single-family homes set at $14.29 per thousand
- Discussion on delinquent tax interest rates resulted in no action to change the current 12% rate
PUBLIC HEARING Sewer Comm.
The Town Council acting as Sewer Commission held a public hearing regarding the FY26 WWTF budget for the period of July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. The meeting included a review of proposed rate and consumption changes.
- Proposed rate increase from $4.65 to $4.80 per 100 cubic feet
- Proposed reduction of minimum consumption from 4,000 to 3,800 cubic feet
- Proposed change to bill on 90% of water consumption instead of 80%
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council met on May 6, 2025 and took action on several agenda items. The council approved a $279,000 bid award to CliftonLarsonAllen LLP for a three‑year audit covering FY2025‑2027. It also adopted a budget‑amendment ordinance moving funds to salary lines for collective‑bargaining raises and approved the 2025 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update. Additional actions included renewing multiple business licenses and adopting a resolution supporting state sidewalk‑maintenance bills.
- Bid Award for Analytical Laboratory Services to Eurofins Rhode Island
- Bid Award for Three‑Year Audit to CliftonLarsonAllen LLP – $279,000
- Ordinance authorizing budget amendment to move funds to salary lines for collective‑bargaining raises
- Resolution adopting the 2025 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
- Resolution supporting Senate Bill S‑57 and House Bill H‑5393 on sidewalk maintenance
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The board will first approve the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. It will then hold a public hearing on the Unified Development Plan for a Florida Properties project on J.P. Murphy Highway, which proposes ten commercial storage units and seeks a special‑use permit and a variance. Finally, the board will consider revising its rules of procedure to align with state law.
- Approve minutes of the April 7, 2025 Planning Board meeting
- Public hearing on Unified Development Plan – 10 commercial storage units, special use permit and variance, applicant Florida Properties, location J.P. Murphy Highway, Business Park (BP) zoning
- Revise Planning Board Rules of Procedure to conform to State Statute
PUBLIC HEARING Sewer Comm.
The West Warwick Sewer Commission held a public hearing on the FY26 WWTF budget. Commissioners discussed lowering the minimum usage charge from 4,000 to 3,800 cubic feet, raising the billing share to 90% of consumption (up from 80%), and a 15‑cent rate increase. No public comments were received, and the meeting was adjourned.
- Proposed reduction of minimum usage charge to 3,800 cubic feet (from 4,000)
- Proposed increase of billing share to 90% of water consumption (from 80%)
- Proposed 15‑cent rate increase
- Public hearing with no public comment
- Motion to adjourn passed 3‑0
Sewer Commission Meeting
The West Warwick Town Council acting as the Sewer Commission accepted meeting minutes and received financial reports. The body voted to award a bid for Maisie Quinn Pump Station upgrades and discussed sludge removal costs and overtime.
- Minutes of Feb 25 and Apr 1 meetings accepted
- Bid awarded for Maisie Quinn Pump Station upgrades
- Sludge removal costs 101% of annual budget
- Overtime costs $129,364 year-to-date
- New chemical feeder installation planned
Town Council Mtg.
The council took the first reading of an ordinance to amend the budget by moving funds to salary lines for raises that resulted from collective bargaining after the budget was adopted. It approved the consent agenda minutes and granted business licenses to Rockwell Amusement and Phantom Fireworks. The council also approved Narragansett Electric's pole petition for work on Nottingham Drive and Maid Marion Lane. A presentation of the West Warwick Transportation Safety Action Plan titled “Safe Streets for All” was given.
- First reading of Ordinance authorizing a budget amendment to move funds to salary lines for collective‑bargaining raises
- Presentation of the West Warwick Transportation Safety Action Plan – “Safe Streets for All”
- Approval of business licenses: Rockwell Amusement (carnival) and Phantom Fireworks (fireworks and Sunday sales)
- Approval of Narragansett Electric’s pole petition on Nottingham Drive and Maid Marion Lane
- Approval of listing and marketing agreement with Brindlee Mountain Fire Apparatus, LLC for sale of a tower ladder truck (no action taken)
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The West Warwick Planning Board Technical Review Committee meets on April 10, 2025 to review three development applications. Item 1 is a request by Terry Harrington for 27 storage units at 153 J.P. Murphy Highway in the Business Park zone. Item 2 is Energy One’s request for 10 storage units at 165 J.P. Murphy Highway, also in the Business Park zone. Item 3 is Exquisite Realty’s proposal to redevelop the historic post office at 1190 Main Street in the Business zone.
- Terry Harrington – 27 storage units, 153 J.P. Murphy Highway, BP zoning
- Energy One – 10 storage units, 165 J.P. Murphy Highway, BP zoning
- Exquisite Realty – redevelopment of historic post office, 1190 Main Street, B zoning
Budget Public Hearing
The West Warwick Town Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed FY2026 municipal budget covering July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. The meeting includes standard procedural items such as call to order, prayer, pledge, roll call, and adjournment. No decisions are recorded in this agenda; the hearing is for public input on the upcoming budget.
- Public hearing on the proposed FY2026 (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026) municipal budget
Planning Bd. Meeting
The West Warwick Planning Board will approve the February 3, 2025 meeting minutes. It will consider certification of the 2023 and 2024 Community Development Block Grant application for compliance with local ordinances. The board will discuss revisions to the Land Development and Subdivision Regulations concerning construction guarantees and solar energy facility decommissioning bonds. A correspondence item for APA award nominations related to Riverpoint Park will also be presented.
- Certification of the 2023 & 2024 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for compliance with local development ordinances.
- Proposed revisions to Section 20 (construction and improvement guarantees) and Section 21.1 (solar energy facility decommissioning bond) of the West Warwick Land Development and Subdivision Regulations.
- Correspondence regarding APA award nominations for the Paul Davidoff Award and the Student Project for Riverpoint Park.
Budget Workshop
The Town Council acting as Sewer Commission reviewed the FY26 proposed sewer budget. It included a 20‑cent per cubic foot usage increase, a $35 per EDU debt service charge, and a Workers Compensation decrease with a 3.16% rise in Property & Liability that together would reduce costs by $20,000. Council members asked staff to return with alternative rate‑increase scenarios.
- 20‑cent increase per cubic foot of sewer usage
- $35 per EDU debt service charge for the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank Bond
- Workers Compensation decrease and 3.16% increase in Property & Liability, yielding $20,000 overall reduction
- Council requested alternative scenarios for the proposed rate increase
- Additional expenses noted for sludge cost and work with DEM
Budget Public Hearing
The West Warwick Town Council conducted a public hearing on the proposed FY2026 municipal budget. Council members and the public reviewed key budget figures, including a total increase of $5,969,165, a 3.99% levy increase of $2,744,378.75, and an approximate 2.75% tax rate rise. The meeting also noted the elimination of $1,273,039 in capital expenditures and scheduled a follow‑up hearing on April 8.
- FY2026 municipal budget total increase of $5,969,165
- Levy increase of 3.99% ($2,744,378.75)
- Approximate tax rate increase of 2.75%
- Capital expenditure requests of $1,273,039 eliminated
- Next budget public hearing set for April 8 at 6:00 PM
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved the consent agenda minutes and two sewer commission resolutions awarding bids for potassium permanganate and a phosphorus process analyzer. The council also approved several business licenses, cancelled two tax amounts totaling $2,285.66, and approved a $100 sponsorship for Saint Joseph’s School drama program. Upcoming appointments and meeting dates were announced.
- Approval of Resolution SC2025-09 – Bid Award for Potassium Permanganate
- Approval of Resolution SC2025-10 – Bid Award for Phosphorus Process Analyzer
- Cancellation of Taxes in the amount of $624.26 as requested by the Tax Assessor
- Cancellation of Taxes in the amount of $1,661.40 as requested by the Tax Assessor
- Approval of Saint Joseph’s School Drama Program Sponsorship in the amount of $100
Budget Workshop
The West Warwick Town Council held a budget workshop to review proposed departmental budgets for fiscal year 2026. The Town Manager presented a total budget increase of $5,969,165, a levy increase of 4.0%, and an approximate tax rate increase of 2.45%. The workshop included presentations from department heads and covered topics such as personnel, senior services, and public safety.
- Total budget increase: $5,969,165
- Levy increase: 4.0% ($2,743,106.43)
- Approximate tax rate increase: 2.45%
- Senior Center budget: $45,000 added due to grant cuts
- Fire Department budget: 10% increase requested
Town Council Mtg.
The council voted on a resolution asking the Rhode Island General Assembly to authorize financing for construction, improvement, renovation, alteration, furnishing and equipping of public schools. It also approved a Livescan fingerprint computer replacement and several fire department procurement requests. Business licenses were approved and a $100 advertisement request from Deering Middle School Players was authorized. The meeting included a finance report showing current tax collections of $52,095,891.62.
- Resolution requesting state legislation to finance school construction and upgrades
- Approval of Livescan fingerprint computer replacement
- Fire Department request to purchase 41 self‑contained breathing paks
- Fire Department request to purchase a new rescue truck
- Approval of $100 advertisement request from Deering Middle School Players
Budget Workshop
The West Warwick Town Council held a FY26 Budget Workshop where the Town Manager presented a total budget increase of $5,969,165 and a 4.0% levy increase of $2,743,106.43, raising the approximate tax rate by 2.45%. Departmental budgets were reviewed, with the School Department requesting $77,107,168 (a $2,152,470 increase) and several departments remaining level‑funded. Minor adjustments included a proposed $68,000 staff cut in the Building Department and a $10,000 reduction to the Street Lighting budget.
- Total FY26 budget increase of $5,969,165
- Levy increase of 4.0% ($2,743,106.43)
- School Department budget $77,107,168, up $2,152,470 (2.87%)
- Building Department proposes cutting one maintenance position to save ~$68,000
- Street Lighting budget decreased by $10,000
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved a liquor license for Olee Restaurante LLC and passed a second reading of an ordinance amending traffic vehicle restricted routes. The meeting also included the approval of several business license renewals.
- Approval of liquor license for Olee Restaurante LLC
- Second reading of Ordinance #2025-1 amending traffic restricted routes
- Approval of business license renewals for Thai Accent, A&S Novelty, and Kennels
- Public forum regarding a restaurant on Main Street
- Upcoming appointments for Sewer Use Board and Tree Warden
Sewer Comm. Meeting
The West Warwick Sewer Commission accepted the minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting. It reviewed operational data, including a $5,233,045 year‑to‑date operating expense and sludge removal costs of $541,021. The commission voted unanimously to adopt three resolutions: a Sewer Use Abatement, a bid award for methanol, and an action concerning Acrison Inc.
- Resolution SC2025-05: Accepted minutes of the Jan. 21, 2025 meeting (5‑0 vote)
- Resolution SC2025-06: Sewer Use Abatement approved (5‑0 vote)
- Resolution SC2025-07: Bid Award – Methanol approved (5‑0 vote)
- Resolution SC2025-08: Acrison Inc. action approved (5‑0 vote)
- Year‑to‑date operating and debt expenses reported at $5,233,045 (55% of annual budget)
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council acted on several items, including granting a Class BV Limited Liquor License to West Valley Catering. Council members adopted an ordinance amendment that prohibits parking on Newlight Street. They also approved purchases for the Police Department: a mobile radio system costing $17,774.25 and a cruiser upfitting project costing $72,597.76. A resolution was adopted to reject any interest in the Kent County Water Authority property at 1072 Main Street.
- Class BV Limited Liquor License granted to West Valley Catering Inc.
- Ordinance #2025-1 amendment: No parking on Newlight Street
- Police Department Mobile Radio Purchase – $17,774.25
- Police Department Cruiser Upfitting – $72,597.76
- Resolution to reject interest in Kent County Water Authority property at 1072 Main Street
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The Technical Review Committee will discuss two applications for market-rate residential developments. Both projects include the construction of housing units and associated parking.
- Application by Washington Capital Investments LLC for 8 market rate condominiums at 55 Washington Street
- Application by Natick School House LLC to redevelop the Providence Street School into 12 residential market rate units at 819 Providence Street
Planning Bd. Meeting - TRC
The Technical Review Committee will approve the minutes from its December 12, 2024 and January 9, 2025 meetings. It will also consider an application by Coco Pacheco to develop five market‑rate condominiums on 112 West Street, which is zoned R‑8 Residential. The review will note a drainage easement that runs through the lot.
- Approve minutes from December 12, 2024
- Approve minutes from January 9, 2025
- Consider Coco Pacheco's application for 5 market‑rate condos at 112 West Street (R‑8 zoning)
- Review drainage easement affecting the proposed site
Town Council School Cte. Jt. Mtg.
The joint meeting approved the School Building Authority’s Stage II construction application to the Rhode Island Department of Education. The Town Council also approved the same application. A request from Shoreline Properties to reduce the bond for the Carr Subdivision at 146 Cowesett Avenue and Carlson Circle was voted down.
- Approval of School Building Authority Stage II construction application (School Committee)
- Approval of School Building Authority Stage II construction application (Town Council)
- Rejection of Shoreline Properties’ bond reduction request for Carr Subdivision at 146 Cowesett Avenue and Carlson Circle
Town Council Mtg.
The council approved a $265,000 resolution to fund the Town Hall air‑conditioning replacement project and adopted a resolution temporarily transferring funds to the Senior Center to address a cash‑flow shortage in FY2025. A request from Shoreline Properties to reduce the bond for the Carr Subdivision at 146 Cowesett Avenue and Carlson Circle was rejected. The meeting also included discussion of the former Crompton Mill site on Pulaski Street, potential Home Rule Charter amendments for a school building bond referendum, and several board appointments.
- Approval of $265,000 Town Hall air‑conditioning replacement project
- Resolution transferring funds to the Senior Center for FY2025 cash‑flow shortage
- Rejection of Shoreline Properties’ bond reduction request for Carr Subdivision (146 Cowesett Avenue & Carlson Circle)
- Discussion of future use of former Crompton Mill site on Pulaski Street
- Consideration of Home Rule Charter amendments for a school building bond referendum
Planning Bd. Meeting
The West Warwick Planning Board will meet to review a final plan for a condominium project and a bond release request. The board is also reviewing minutes from the December 10, 2024, meeting.
- Final Plan Approval for Lofts at Riverpoint at 60 East Main Street (10 condominium units: 5 market rate, 5 low-moderate income)
- Partial Bond Release request from Shoreline Properties for the construction of June Court
Sewer Comm. Meeting
The West Warwick Town Council acting as Sewer Commission reviewed December 2024 operational and financial reports. The body approved contract extensions for chemicals and polymer, as well as a bid for the East Natick Rehabilitation Project.
- Approved bid for East Natick Rehabilitation Project (SC2025-04)
- Approved contract extensions for chemicals (SC2025-02) and polymer (SC2025-03)
- Reported FY2025 year-to-date operating and debt expenses of $4,757,520
- Reviewed plan for 183 Washington Street to convert a warehouse to 30 affordable housing units
- Reviewed plan for 60 East Main for 10 residential and 2 commercial units
Town Council Mtg.
The council heard an update from the School Building Committee and will hold a joint council‑school meeting on February 12 to vote on the Stage II RIDE submission. A representative from Hilltop Securities presented the town's bonding capacity and possible bond amounts for school projects. The finance director reported current year tax collections of $37,530,663.28 and a bank balance of $12,271,091.08. The council also approved the consent agenda, multiple business licenses, and several re‑appointments to local boards.
- School Building Committee update: final community engagement meeting Jan 22; joint council‑school vote on Stage II RIDE Feb 12
- Bond Issue Plan discussion: Hilltop Securities presented bonding capacity and options for a school bond
- Finance report: tax collections $37,530,663.28 (56% of budget), prior year $519,768.79, bank balance $12,271,091.08
- Business licenses: raffle license for Civic Center and multiple event licenses for 100 Factory Street
- Re‑appointments: Juvenile Hearing Board, Public Library Board, Board of Canvassers, etc.
Town Council Mtg.
The West Warwick Town Council approved several resolutions, including a $175,449.27 purchase of police cars and a $150 per year increase for recycling bins. It also granted a Victualling License to Krum Smart dba Fresh Homemade Donuts Inc. and adopted a resolution urging support of legislation for lien enforcement. Additional items included a purchase of tasers for the Police Department, a school building committee update, and numerous board appointments. The meeting concluded with motions to enter and exit executive session.
- Resolution approving purchase of police cars for $175,449.27 as part of the Capital Improvement Program
- Resolution approving purchase of tasers and related equipment for the Police Department
- Resolution amending Appendix B – Fees and Charges, increasing recycling bin price to $150 per year
- Business license request from Krum Smart dba Fresh Homemade Donuts Inc. for a Victualling License
- Resolution urging support of legislation for enforcement of liens under RIGL 45-6-2