City of Newport public meetings in 2025
38 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Zoning Board of Review - December 2025 Regular Meeting
The Zoning Board will hold public hearings on several variance and special use permit requests, including a guest house conversion at 604 Thames Street, an outdoor service area and bar structure at 0 Bowen's Wharf, and residential additions and decks. Multiple items are continued to January 2026 at the applicant's request.
- Special use permit to convert two dwelling units into a guest house at 604 Thames Street, without required parking.
- Dimensional variance for seasonal outdoor service area and new accessory bar at 0 Bowen's Wharf, without required parking.
- Dimensional variances for a two-story addition at 3 Butler Street, increasing lot coverage from 28.9% to 33.2%.
- Dimensional variance for a 672 sq. ft. pool at 21 Clay Street, increasing lot coverage (continued to 1/26/26).
- Dimensional variance for a second-floor deck at 51 Marchant Street (240 sq. ft., 100 sq. ft. allowed).
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - December 10, 2025
The Newport City Council will consider revisions to the two-tiered resident tax program, hear a police department presentation on traffic safety initiatives, and vote on several action items including contract awards and ordinance amendments. The council also convenes as the Board of License Commissioners to hold public hearings on liquor license transfers and expansions for several Thames Street restaurants.
- Action Item #6538/25: Two-Tiered Resident Tax Program Revisions
- Police Department Presentation on Traffic Safety Initiatives
- Public hearing on transfer of liquor license for Scales & Shells (527 Thames St.) and Jo’s American Bistro (24 Memorial Blvd. West)
- Second reading of ordinances amending mooring permit classifications, quotas, and fees (Sections 12.28.020, 12.28.071, 12.28.072, 12.28.200)
- Authorization of funds for FY 2027 Capital Improvement Program – Brick Market HVAC Project
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Historic District Commission will review 14 new applications and 7 continued applications for changes to historic properties, including a new home at the former Underwood School site and a carriage house conversion into a dwelling unit with guest cottage. The commission will also discuss and possibly adopt a revised 'Guidance on Windows, Doors, & Skylights' and a 'Lead Paint Adaption Manual.' The meeting is on December 9, 2025 at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers.
- Application for new home at former Underwood School site, 0 Brenton Rd (N-4)
- Carriage house conversion at 6 Greenough Pl: raising foundation, new guest cottage, dwelling unit (N-6)
- Continued application at 95 John St for third-floor dormer with roof deck (C-7)
- Zoning violation at 40 Sherman St: closet addition built without approval (C-6)
- Discussion and potential adoption of revised Guidance on Windows, Doors, & Skylights
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a proposal to add four dwelling units to an existing multi-family building at 102-108 Girard Avenue, requiring a special use permit and dimensional variances. They will also review and decide on amendments to the Newport Subdivision and Land Development Regulations to comply with recent state law changes. Additionally, the board will hear a presentation on the Comprehensive Plan 2037 update and elect officers for 2026.
- Public hearing for Development Plan Review (App. 2025-DPR-01) to add 4 units at 102-108 Girard Avenue with variances for side yard setback, lot coverage, and parking area
- Review and decision on amendments to Subdivision Regulations to align with state law changes (June 2025)
- Presentation on Comprehensive Plan 2037 Update from Interface Studio
- Election of 2026 officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary) and setting 2026 meeting schedule
- Informational reports on previously approved demolitions (30 Roseneath Ave, 51 Marchant St, 20-22 Anthony St) and lot line adjustments (96-100 Harrison Ave, 1 York St/115 Girard Ave)
Zoning Board of Review - November 2025
The Newport Zoning Board of Review will consider several petitions at its November 24, 2025 meeting, including a special use permit and variances for a two-story addition at 594-596 Thames Street to expand a restaurant and create a dwelling unit, as well as a roof deck at 22 Narragansett Avenue. The board will also decide dimensional variance requests for AC condensers, additions, and decks on residential properties, and continue three petitions to a later date.
- Special use permit and variances for 594-596 Thames Street to expand restaurant, add dwelling, increase lot coverage from 46% to 64% (50% allowed), no additional parking provided
- Special use permit and dimensional variance for 22 Narragansett Avenue to construct a 350 sq. ft. roof deck exceeding height limit (39'2 5/8" vs 30' allowed)
- Dimensional variance for 5 Newport Avenue to increase lot coverage from 31.42% to 36.13% (30.25% allowed) for two additions
- Dimensional variance for 12 Hunter Avenue to construct a 429 sq. ft. second-floor deck (100 sq. ft. allowed)
- Request to withdraw petition at 4 Atlantic Street for a dormer variance
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - November 12, 2025
The Newport City Council will meet on November 12, 2025, to receive a presentation on the city's housing planning update from the Housing Planner. The council will also consider action items including a contract for a traffic study on Thames-Spring streets, borrowing for the primary clarifier rehabilitation project, and several ordinance revisions related to parking and weight restrictions on specific streets. The consent calendar includes approvals of special events, licenses, and minutes from previous meetings.
- Housing planning update presentation from Elijah Mensah
- Award of contract for traffic study on Thames-Spring Streets (RFP 2026-PS-001)
- Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank borrowing for Primary Clarifier Replacement Project
- Ordinance revision prohibiting parking on Broadway (north of Vernon Avenue)
- Ordinance revision restricting vehicle weight on Bedlow Avenue and Hillside Avenue
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Historic District Commission will meet on November 10, 2025 to consider eight new applications and seven continued applications for alterations to historic properties. The agenda includes requests for window replacements, additions, decks, and a pool. Two action items seek extensions of previously approved plans.
- Application #HDC-25-181: Replace windows at 21 & 23 Brinley St.
- Application #HDC-25-188: Retroactive approval for closet addition at 40 Sherman St (zoning violation).
- Application #HDC-25-190: Addition, roof deck, dormer at 95 John St.
- Continued application #2025-Sept-004: T-Mobile antenna installation at 1 Bellevue Ave.
- Action item A-2: Extend approval for three-car garage at 275 Harrison Ave.
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will hold a regular meeting on November 3, 2025. The board will consider a minor subdivision application for 173-175 Coggeshall Avenue, involving lot splits and requests for dimensional variances and a special use permit. It will also review a development plan to add four dwelling units to an existing apartment building at 102-108 Girard Avenue, which requires variances. The board will also receive a presentation on RI Housing 2030 and hear liaison reports.
- Minor subdivision at 173-175 Coggeshall Ave: subdivide lot into two, request variances for lot width, setbacks, lot coverage, and Category 6 special use permit (continued from August and September meetings).
- Development plan review at 102-108 Girard Ave: add 1,400 sq ft building addition with 4 dwelling units, request variances for side setback, lot coverage, parking location.
- Demolition application at 10 Red Cross Terrace (informational only) approved by Technical Review Committee.
- Presentation: RI Housing 2030 Overview.
- Approval of minutes from October 6, 2025 meeting.
Zoning Board of Review - October 2025 Meeting
The Zoning Board of Review will hold full hearings on several petitions, including a special use permit and variances for a two-story addition at 594-596 Thames Street to expand a restaurant and add a dwelling unit with increased lot coverage and no additional parking. Other items include a request from Salve Regina University to withdraw its application for a student assembly hall event center at 51 Lawrence Avenue, and a dimensional variance for a guest house at 134 Spring Street. The board will also consider summary calendar petitions for dimensional variances at 12 Gardiner Street and 1 Bartlett Court.
- 594-596 Thames Street: special use permit and dimensional variances for restaurant addition and new dwelling unit, lot coverage from 46% to 64%, no additional parking provided
- Salve Regina University: request to withdraw application for event center at 51 Lawrence Avenue
- A1 Roofing & Construction: dimensional variance to convert dwelling into five-bedroom guest house at 134 Spring Street without required parking
- Cynthia Barton: variances to demolish garage and construct new two-story building with dwelling unit and addition at 61-63 Kay Street
- Stephen & Grace Turcotte: revision of approved variance to enlarge rear addition and front porch at 125 Old Fort Road
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - October 22, 2025
The City Council will consider reallocating General Obligation Bond funding to advance the Primary Clarifier Rehabilitation Project, authorize recreation grant applications totaling $625K to RIDEM, and vote on a contract for a Thames-Spring Streets traffic study. The agenda also includes public hearings on victualing license expansions for Broadway Mini Mart, Cru Café, and The Elms Carriage House, as well as resolutions on open containers at the Broadway Street Fair and establishing an Accessibility Advisory Commission.
- Reallocation of GO bond funding for Primary Clarifier Rehabilitation Project
- Authorization to apply for $125K Small and $500K Large recreation grants from RIDEM
- Award of contract for Thames-Spring Streets traffic study (continued from Sept. 29)
- Public hearings on extended hours for Broadway Mini Mart (4-6 a.m.) and expansion of Cru Café and The Elms Carriage House food service
- Resolution to allow open containers of alcohol at Broadway Street Fair
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Newport Historic District Commission will vote on several continued and new applications for exterior alterations to historic properties. Key items include converting a two-family residence to a single-family home with an accessory dwelling unit and pool, installing 6 antennas at 1 Bellevue Ave, and multiple window replacements and porch additions across the district.
- Application #2025-Aug-009, Pt. II: Conversion of 8 Beacon Hill Rd from two-family to single-family with portico, garage, ADU, and pool.
- Application #2025-Sept-002: T-Mobile LLC requests permission to remove/install 6 antennas at 1 Bellevue Ave.
- Application #2025-Sept-016: Construct a non-permanent carport at 16 Barney Street.
- Application #HDC-25-180: Extensive restoration including dormers, skylight, sunroom at 1 Cherry St.
- Application #HDC-25-167: New skylights, deck, and door alterations at 216 Spring Street.
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - October 8, 2025
The Newport City Council will consider several action items, including a funding source for the Rogers High School construction project, an update to the city's fund balance policy, and a contract for a new rescue vehicle. The council will also hold second readings on mooring ordinance amendments and hear a request for a fireworks special event license with a 90-day filing waiver. Appointments to the Sister City and Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory commissions are on the agenda.
- Action Item #6519/25: Funding source for Rogers High School construction project
- Action Item #6517/25: Award of contract for Wheeled Coach 2026 Ford F550 rescue vehicle
- Action Item #6518/25: Extension of electricity supplier contract for Community Electricity Program
- Second reading of ordinances amending mooring permit definitions, quotas, and fees (Sections 12.28.020, 12.28.071, 12.28.072, 12.28.200)
- Special event license for fireworks at Castle Hill Inn with a request to waive the 90-day filing requirement
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will vote on two continued applications. The Treadway Hotel at 49 America's Cup Avenue seeks to expand from 153 to 164 rooms, add retail space, and provide a public waterfront walkway, requiring a special use permit and dimensional variances for room count and parking. A subdivision at 173-175 Coggeshall Avenue proposes splitting one lot into two, with requested variances for lot width, setbacks, and lot coverage, and has drawn multiple public objections. The board will also receive an introduction to the Comprehensive Plan 2037 Update from Interface Studio consultants.
- Treadway Hotel expansion: increase rooms to 164 (153 allowed), add retail, 168 parking spaces (219 required), public waterfront walkway, Category 3 Special Use Permit and variances needed
- Minor subdivision at 173-175 Coggeshall Avenue: split 29,576 sq.ft. lot into two, variances for lot width (15 ft vs 80 ft), setbacks, and lot coverage (30% vs 20%), Category 6 Special Use Permit requested
- Public objections on file for Coggeshall subdivision (nine comments from residents)
- Introduction of Comprehensive Plan 2037 Update via Interface Studio consultants
- Administrative actions: RIDOT Pell Bridge realignment parcel subdivision, demolition at 7 Weatherly Avenue, corrective subdivision at 16 Congdon Avenue, final plan for lot adjustment at 71-75 Tilden Avenue
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - September 29, 2025 - Rescheduled from September 24, 2025
The Newport City Council will consider a resolution supporting a moratorium on new natural gas hookups on Aquidneck Island. They will also vote on several contract awards including HVAC system for Martin Recreation Center, City Hall retaining wall, LED sports lighting, and a traffic study. Additionally, the council will hold a public hearing on a request to expand entertainment at The Vanderbilt to include roof deck and garden terrace.
- Resolution supporting a moratorium on new natural gas hookups on Aquidneck Island
- Public hearing on expanding entertainment license for The Vanderbilt (41 Mary St.) to include roof deck daily 5-9pm and Garden Terrace daily 6-9:30pm
- Award of contract for HVAC system at Martin Recreation Center (RFP #2026-PS-004)
- Award of contract for LED sports lighting at John Chafee Recreation Area (Bid #2026-PS-002)
- Show cause hearing for Pyramid Club for operating without a valid Class D alcoholic beverage license (continued from July 23)
Zoning Board of Review - September 2025 Meeting
The Newport Zoning Board of Review will meet on September 22, 2025, to consider multiple applications for dimensional variances, special use permits, and appeals. The agenda includes a full hearing petition to add a third dwelling unit at 8 Peckham Avenue, a zoning certificate appeal at 18 Barney Street, and several continued cases including guest house conversions and a university event center. The board will also act on withdrawal and extension requests.
- Full hearing petition for 8 Peckham Ave LLC to add a third dwelling unit with variances for height, setbacks, lot size, and parking
- Appeal of a zoning certificate for 18 Barney Street and 3 & 4 Barney Court regarding number of buildings and legal units
- Continued case: 640 Thames Street LLC to convert a dwelling unit into a five-bedroom guest house without parking (continued to 10/27/25)
- Continued case: Salve Regina University to use a student assembly hall as a public event center at 51 Lawrence Avenue (continued to 10/27/25)
- Withdrawal requests for 34 Sherman Street and 57 Gould Street (without prejudice)
HDC - September 2025 (Rescheduled from September 9, 2025)
The Historic District Commission will consider approval of minutes, two action items from previous meetings, and then review 21 new applications for work on designated contributing and non-contributing properties. Also on the agenda are three continued applications. The meeting was rescheduled from September 9.
- T-Mobile LLC application to install 6 antennas at 1 Bellevue (contributing property)
- Carbonview Limited LLC proposal for extensive work at 562 Bellevue Ave including roof, windows, garage demolition
- New in-ground pool and accessory building renovations at 41 Third Street (contributing)
- Spiral staircase variance for second egress at 37 William Street (contributing)
- Spouting Rock Beach Association plan to convert cabanas into ADA bathroom, add pergola at 34 Ocean Ave
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will hold a public hearing on an amended application for a 38-unit multi-family residential development at 525 Broadway, requiring a special use permit and several dimensional variances. The board will also consider a minor subdivision at 173-175 Coggeshall Avenue and receive updates on the Comprehensive Plan and other commission reports. The Treadway Hotel expansion item is continued to October 6, 2025.
- Unified Development Review for 38-unit development at 525 Broadway (App. No. 2024-DPR-04) with requested variances for density, parking, height, lot coverage, and driveway access
- Minor subdivision application for 173-175 Coggeshall Avenue (App. No. 2024-MS-04) with requests for lot width, setback, and lot coverage variances
- Treadway Hotel expansion (App. No. 2024-DPR-02) continued to October 6, 2025
- Administrative approval of minor subdivision at 221 Third Street & 186 Admiral Kalbfus Road (App. No. 2025-MS-03)
- Communications include Comprehensive Plan update and Planning Board introductory slides
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - August 27, 2025
The Newport City Council will hold second readings on several ordinances, including a new Fraternal Order of Police contract covering 2024-2028 and amendments to parking regulations. The council will also vote on a residential curbside composting service agreement with Black Earth Compost, an award for a new harbormaster patrol vessel, a supplemental agreement for the Perrotti Park project, and a grant for restoring marsh habitat at South Easton Pond. Additionally, the council will consider special event permits and a resolution requesting a meeting with RIDOT about the rotary plans.
- Second reading of FOP contract (police union) for July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 and July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2028
- Service agreement with Black Earth Compost for residential curbside composting
- Award of contract for harbormaster patrol vessel
- Supplemental agreement for professional services on the Perrotti Park project
- Authorization to accept grant funds for restoring marsh habitat and public green spaces at South Easton Pond
Zoning Board of Review - August 2025 Meeting
The Zoning Board will hear a request from Baycoast Bank for re-approval of a new bank at 137 Broadway with dimensional variances for parking. Also on the agenda are a petition to construct an in-ground pool at 108 Catherine Street and a variance to add bedrooms to a guest house at 3 Goodwin Street. Several other applications have been continued to the September 22 meeting.
- Baycoast Bank petition (ZBR-25-63) for re-approval of bank at 137 & 131-133 Broadway with parking variances and drive-through
- Jessica Phillips petition (ZBR-25-66) for special use permit and variance to construct in-ground pool at 108 Catherine Street, increasing lot coverage to 18.2%
- Linda Pereira petition (ZBR-25-60) for dimensional variance to add two bedrooms to guest house at 3 Goodwin Street without required parking
- Continued petition for 640 Thames Street to convert one dwelling unit into a five-bedroom guest house (continued to 9/22/25)
- Continued petition for Salve Regina University to allow student assembly hall as public event center at 51 Lawrence Avenue (continued to 9/22/25)
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - August 13, 2025
The Newport City Council will hold a public hearing on removing a Sister City Commission member, then consider a consent calendar and resolutions opposing RIPTA service cuts and supporting school regionalization. Major action items include voting on a new Fraternal Order of Police contract for 2024-2028, a municipal bond project funding resolution, and amendments to the city fee schedule for special event impact fees. The council will also act on multiple street and parking ordinance changes and award contracts for roadway crack sealing and rubberized asphalt chip seal projects.
- Vote on Fraternal Order of Police contract from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2028
- Resolution opposing proposed RIPTA service cuts
- Ordinance amendment to Title II Chapter 2.120 'General Fee Schedule' for special event impact fees
- Resolution for municipal bond project funding (Action Item #6474/25)
- Award of contract for Roadway Crack Sealing Project (Action Item #6475/25)
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Historic District Commission will consider 9 new applications for alterations to contributing and non-contributing structures, three requests to extend previously approved solar array plans, and two continued applications for window and door replacements.
- Application #2025-Aug-009: convert two-family residence into single-family with portico, chimney removal, and new balcony at 8 Beacon Hill
- Application #2025-Aug-004: construct detached garage and rear addition at 53 John Street
- Application #2025-Aug-010: demolish and reconstruct exterior stairs and porch at 89 Harrison (Friedeim Condominium)
- Action item A-1: extend approval for 60-module solar array on gatehouse roof at 232 Ocean Ave
- Continued application C-2: replace all windows and exterior doors in main historic block at 1 Bellevue Avenue
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will hold continued public hearings on a 38-unit multifamily development at 525 Broadway requiring multiple variances, and a petition to amend the Future Land Use Map for five lots on Seaview Avenue to allow higher density. The board will also review minor subdivision applications for lot line adjustments at Tilden Avenue, Harrison Avenue, and Coggeshall Avenue. Administrative approvals from recent meetings, including a 91-room hotel at 181 Bellevue Avenue and a demolition at 23 Spouting Rock Drive, will be reported.
- Continued hearing for 38-unit multifamily buildings at 525 Broadway, requiring special use permit and dimensional variances
- Continued petition to change Future Land Use Map for 5 lots on Seaview Avenue from Low to Medium Density Residential
- Minor subdivision at 71 & 75 Tilden Avenue to adjust lot line for driveway access (variances needed)
- Minor subdivision at 96 & 100 Harrison Avenue to reconfigure lot line including a historic cottage
- Administrative approval of 91-room hotel with restaurant and spa at 181 Bellevue Avenue
Zoning Board of Review - July 2025 Meeting
The Newport Zoning Board of Review will hear several variance and special use permit requests, decide on withdrawal and extension applications, and continue multiple petitions to a later meeting. Key items include a corrected application for a second-floor addition at 14 Tews Court, a shed addition at 34 Poplar Street, and an HVAC condenser placement at 300 Broadway. The board will also consider withdrawing two cases and granting time extensions for two others.
- Corrected App. #ZBR-25-49: Will Deines, 14 Tews Court – special use permit and dimensional variance to build a second-floor addition 5' from the front property line (7' required).
- App. #ZBR-25-57: William Smiley, 34 Poplar Street – special use permits and variances for a 32 sq. ft. shed addition increasing lot coverage to 37.02% (34.94% allowed).
- App. ZBR-25-61: Edouard A. Kachelmann & Lyndsey Woodman Kachelmann, 300 Broadway – dimensional variance for an HVAC condenser 2' from the right side property line (5' required).
- App. #2025-Feb-003: Patrick Kilroy, 62-64 Bridge Street – dimensional variance for two driveways without 100 feet of lot frontage (Historic Overlay).
- Withdrawal requests for 9 County Street and 118 Prospect Hill, and extension requests for 7 Cottage Street (12-month) and 435 Broadway (36-month).
Newport City Council Regular Meeting
The Newport City Council will vote on a resolution to adjust Fiscal Year 2026 tax rates, along with several other actions. The agenda includes consent items for special events and liquor licenses, a show-cause hearing for a club operating without a license, and appointments to boards. Action items cover contracts for a comprehensive plan update, utility billing system, lead service line engineering, and a composting grant. Second-reading ordinances would amend the general fee schedule, traffic restrictions on Hammond Street, and rental registration fees.
- Resolution to adjust Fiscal Year 2026 tax rates with compliance affirmation
- Award of consulting contract for Comprehensive Plan Update (Item #6461/25)
- Implementation of new utility billing system (Item #6464/25)
- Modification to contract for Lead Service Line Program engineering services (Item #6465/25)
- Grant agreement with 11th Hour Racing for residential curbside composting (Item #6466/25)
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - July 9, 2025
The Newport City Council will vote on several ordinance revisions at its July 9, 2025 meeting, including changes to rental registration fees and a renewal fee increase for harbor permits. It will also hold a public hearing on expanding Pour Judgement Bar & Grill's entertainment license hours. The consent calendar includes 15 special event permits, a waste hauler license, and communications on City Hall lighting and commission resignations.
- Ordinance revision requiring rental registration form to include a copy of the lease and increasing registration/inspection fees
- Public hearing on entertainment license expansion for Pour Judgement Bar & Grill (32 Broadway) to allow music indoors until 1:00 a.m. daily
- Ordinance revision increasing harbor ordinance renewal fees
- Amendment to the general fee schedule (Title II, Chapter 2.120)
- Ordinances to prohibit parking on Poplar Street and Spring Street (second readings)
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The commission will hear multiple applications for modifications to historic properties. Action items include extending previously approved plans for a bulkhead move and French door replacement. Continued applications include a bathroom window replacement and a restoration of windows and roof at 38 Pelham Street. New applications propose an accessory structure, window and door replacement at 1 Bellevue Avenue, an outdoor kitchen, a dormer window, and a basement entry replacement.
- Continued application for window restoration and roof replacement at 38 Pelham Street
- New application to replace all windows and exterior doors at 1 Bellevue Avenue
- New application for detached accessory structure at 59 Bridge Street
- New application for outdoor kitchen at 673 Bellevue Avenue
- Extension of previously approved plan to move bulkhead at 34 Red Cross Avenue
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - June 25, 2025
The Newport City Council will hold a public hearing and second reading on the FY2026-2027 biennial budget, including appropriations, sewer charges, and the tax levy. The council also considers contracts for digital parking permit technology and renovations to the Florence Gray Center, as well as parking ordinance changes and several liquor license renewals and special event permits.
- Public hearing on FY2026-2027 biennial budget, including tax levy, sewer rate changes, and personnel ordinance
- Action Item #6450/25: Award of contract for digital parking permit/license plate reader technology
- Action Item #6449/25: Amendments to Brewster Thornton Group Architects’ contract for Florence Gray Center renovations
- Ordinance revisions prohibiting parking on Spring Street and Poplar Street, plus amending residential parking streets
- Hearing on expansion of entertainment license for Pour Judgement Bar & Grill to include indoor entertainment seven days a week
Planning Board Special Meeting 6-16-2025
The Newport Planning Board will meet on June 18, 2025, at Pell Elementary School to discuss several continued applications. Items include a 37-unit residential project at 525 Broadway requiring multiple variances, a Camp Rocky Farm expansion with a new alumni building and special use permit, and a petition to rezone five lots near Seaview Avenue from low to medium density. The board will also review a CDBG application for consistency with the comprehensive plan and a minor lot consolidation on Mill Street.
- Application to build three multi-family buildings with 37 one-bedroom units at 525 Broadway, plus 7 units in Middletown, requiring variances for density, parking, height, and lot coverage
- Camp Rocky Farm proposes new Alumni Building, two pavilions, archery range relocation, and 10 parking spaces at 160 Carroll Avenue, with a special use permit for a charitable institution
- Petition to amend Future Land Use Map to change five lots south of Seaview Avenue from Low Density Residential to Medium Density Residential, paving way for R-60 to R-10 rezoning
- CDBG supplemental application review for consistency with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan for Project Year 25
- Administrative subdivision to merge lots 81 & 82 and adjust boundary at 104, 108, 112 Mill Street
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - June 11, 2025
The City Council will resume consideration of the FY2026-2027 Biennial Budget, including a public hearing and first readings of appropriation, personnel, and sewer rate ordinances. They will also hold a public hearing on a Community Development Block Grant supplemental application, consider a sound variance for live music at Newport Craft, and vote on numerous special event licenses, sidewalk café licenses, and appointments to boards and commissions.
- Resolution to resume FY2026-2027 Biennial Budget (continued from May 28, 2025)
- Public hearing on Community Development Block Grant supplemental application (Item 6443/25)
- Sound variance for live music up to 95 dB at Coastal Extreme Brewing, 293 J.T. Connell Highway
- Change order for Elm Street Pier Repair/Replacement project (Item 6444/25)
- Ordinance revision to designate Kilburn Court as 24-hour residential parking (Item 6445/25)
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Newport Historic District Commission will review 15 applications for alterations, repairs, and new construction in historic districts, including a retroactive request for demolition at 734 Bellevue Ave and a proposal for a new single-family home on Ridge Road. The commission will also discuss a letter to congressional delegates on preservation issues.
- Retroactive demolition approval for non-contributing structure at 734 Bellevue Ave (N-7)
- New single-family dwelling proposal on empty parcel at Ridge Road (N-6)
- Restoration and window replacement at 38 Pelham Street (N-8) and 8 Poplar Street (N-9)
- Conversion of non-contributing garage to ADU at 5 Champlin Street (C-5)
- New business: Letter to congressional delegates from Preservation Planner and HDC
Beach Commission Consultant Presentation 6-4-2025
The agenda consists solely of a consultant presentation to the Beach Commission. No decisions or specific proposals are listed. Presentation materials are available online until August 31, 2025.
- Consultant presentation materials available at provided link
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will hold a regular meeting to discuss several development applications, including two large projects at Waites Wharf that have been continued from prior meetings. The board will also consider a petition to amend the Future Land Use Map for five lots on Seaview Avenue and a development proposal at 525 Broadway. A communication on the Vision Zero Safety Action Plan is scheduled for presentation.
- Petition to amend Future Land Use Map for 5 lots (TAP 31, Lots 14, 16, 107, 114, 137) near 7 Seaview Avenue from Low Density to Medium Density Residential
- 525 Broadway LLC proposes 37 one-bedroom units with SUP and dimensional variances for density, parking, height, and lot coverage in R-10 zone
- Camp Rocky Farm (160 Carroll Ave) seeks SUP for charitable institution to build Alumni Building, two pavilions, relocate archery range, add 10 parking spaces
- Waites Wharf North Lot (25 Waites Wharf) – 54 hotel rooms, restaurant, 7 multifamily units with SUP in Waterfront Business zone, continued from March/ April/ May meetings
- Waites Wharf South Lot (0,1,16 Waites Wharf) – 35 hotel rooms, restaurant/event venue, 7 multifamily units with SUP in Waterfront Business zone, continued from prior meetings
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - May 28, 2025
The Newport City Council will discuss a proposed plan to prohibit new non-owner occupied short-term rentals. The council will also vote on adopting the Vision Zero Safety Action Plan, consider a resolution to resume the FY2026-2027 biennial budget, and hold second readings on several smoking and pedicab ordinances. Numerous special event and entertainment licenses are up for approval.
- Proposed prohibition on new non-owner occupied short-term rentals
- Adoption of Vision Zero Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan
- Subrecipient agreement with RIDOT for Cliff Walk Restoration Project
- Second readings of ordinances: smoking on buses, beaches, parks, municipal buildings; pedicab regulations
- Entertainment license second hearings for Brenton Hotel (31 America’s Cup Ave) and Playhouse Kitchen (102 Connell Highway)
Zoning Board of Review - May 2025 Regular Meeting
The Zoning Board will hear an appeal of the Historic District Commission's denial of a Certificate of Appropriateness for a proposed hotel, restaurant, and spa at 181 Bellevue Avenue. The board will also consider petitions for dimensional variances and special use permits, including a conversion of a retail store to a fast-food restaurant at 201 Goddard Row. Several items are continued to future meetings.
- Appeal of HDC denial for a new hotel, restaurant, and spa at 181 Bellevue Avenue
- Petition for special use permit to convert retail store to fast-food restaurant at 201 Goddard Row (smoothies and fruit bowls)
- Dimensional variance for a condenser 2'-4" from side property line at 33 Poplar Street
- Dimensional variances for generator and pool equipment at 108 Catherine Street
- Special use permit and variance for mudroom and two-story garage at 57 Marchant Street (lot coverage increase)
Planning Board Waites Wharf Special Meeting
The Newport Planning Board will hold a special meeting to continue its review of two development plan applications for the Waites Wharf Hotel project. The proposals include a 54-room hotel with restaurant and a 7-unit multifamily building on the North Lot, and a 35-room hotel with restaurant/event venue and a 7-unit multifamily building on the South Lot. Both require Special Use Permits in the Waterfront Business zone. The meeting was continued from March 3, April 7, and May 12, 2025.
- Unified Development Review for Development Plan Review App. No. 2024-DPR-01 (Waites Wharf Hotel – North Lot) at 25 Waites Wharf & 20 West Extension St.
- Unified Development Review for Development Plan Review App. No. 2024-DPR-02 (Waites Wharf Hotel – South Lot) at 0, 1, & 16 Waites Wharf & 23 Coddington Wharf.
- Proposed public access easements for both lots.
- Over 70 public comments received, with a mix of support and objection.
- Applicant requests Special Use Permits for transient guest facility and multifamily dwelling uses.
Newport City Council Regular Meeting - May 14, 2025
The Council will hold a public hearing on the FY2026-2027 biennial budget, including Budget Change Sheets for the General Fund, Enterprise Funds, and Bond, as well as first readings of the appropriating and personnel ordinances. A separate public hearing will consider the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application. The consent calendar includes approval of minutes, numerous special event permits, and renewals of licenses (holiday selling, fortuneteller, tattoo, waste hauler).
- Public hearing on FY2026-2027 biennial budget with Budget Change Sheets #1-3
- First reading of ordinance amending marijuana use in public places (Sections 5.64.080, 5.97.120, etc.)
- New sidewalk café license for Chomp Kitchen and Drinks at 107-111 Broadway (8 tables, 46 seats)
- New entertainment license for Brenton Hotel (31 America’s Cup Ave.) with daily indoor/outdoor rooftop entertainment
- Renewal of waste hauler licenses for A1 Roofing, Island Rubbish, Lawrence Waste, and RPKK, Inc.
Historic District Commission Regular Meeting
The Newport Historic District Commission will meet on May 13, 2025, to review ten new applications for exterior changes to historic properties. The board will also consider one action item for a swimming pool at 169 Wellington Avenue and six previously continued applications. No final decisions are listed on the agenda; applicants are requesting permission for work such as window replacements, solar panel installations, and structural additions. These reviews determine whether proposed modifications comply with local historic preservation standards, which directly affects property owners and neighborhood character.
- 16 Chestnut St: replace two double-hung windows
- 5 Champlin St: convert non-contributing garage into an ADU
- 9 Ocean Heights Rd and 1 Wetmore Ave: install solar panels on roofs
- 60 Third St: lift roof, add a second story, and replace siding
- 169 Wellington Ave: construct a swimming pool (action item)
Planning Board Regular Meeting
The Planning Board will consider certifying the city's CDBG application as consistent with the Comprehensive Land Use Plan. It will also set special meeting dates for two Waites Wharf hotel developments totaling 89 transient rooms, restaurants, and 14 multifamily units. A petition to rezone five lots near Seaview Avenue has been continued to June.
- CDBG Application – Project Year 25: board certifies consistency with Comprehensive Land Use Plan
- Waites Wharf Hotel North Lot (App. 2024-DPR-01): 54-room hotel, restaurant, 7 residential units – special meeting date setting
- Waites Wharf Hotel South Lot (App. 2024-DPR-02): 35-room hotel, restaurant/event venue, 7 residential units – special meeting date setting
- Petition to amend Future Land Use Map for 7 Seaview Ave and four other lots from Low to Medium Density Residential (continued to June 2, 2025)
- Administrative subdivisions and demolition report: lot line adjustments at Kerins Terrace and Kay Boulevard, demolition at 6 Lucas Avenue