Newport public meetings in 2024

Workshop

The City Council held a workshop to review individual council member goals, with discussion among council members and City Manager Kennedy. Four members of the public spoke. No formal decisions or votes were made; the meeting was procedural and adjourned at 7:00 p.m.

Council Session

The Newport City Council voted down the Coggeshall School Purchase and Sale Agreement with BCM Realty Partners, with four councilors opposed and three in favor. The council also approved numerous licenses, appointments, and contract awards, including a resolution reaffirming the City Charter's non-interference provision.

• Rejected Coggeshall School Purchase and Sale Agreement (4-3)
• Approved 2024-2025 liquor license renewals for Norey's and Thai Cuisine (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar including special events, tattoo/pool/amusement licenses, and resignations (unanimous)
• Approved pedicab business license renewals for New England Pedicab and Pioneer Pedicab (unanimous)
• Approved new victualing license for Monarca Authentic Mexican Cuisine (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license for The Red Parrot (unanimous)
• Appointed Nicole Shevory and Melissa Pattavina to Zoning Board (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution reaffirming Charter Section 4-11 (6-1)

Council Session

The Newport City Council-Elect held its inaugural session on December 1, 2024, to swear in members and appoint city leadership. The council elected a Chair, Vice Chair, City Solicitor, Municipal Court Judge, and Probate Judge for the 2024-2026 term. Additionally, the council ratified the appointment of two assistant city solicitors.

• Elected Charlie Holder as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Lynn Underwood Ceglie as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Christopher Behan as City Solicitor (unanimous)
• Approved Girard Galvin and Susan Perkins as Assistant City Solicitors (unanimous)
• Appointed J. Russell Jackson as Municipal Court Judge (unanimous)
• Appointed Gregory F. Fater as Probate Judge (unanimous)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council-Elect will meet in executive session on November 25, 2024 to review applications, conduct interviews, and discuss selecting candidates for two open legal positions: Assistant City Solicitor for Law Enforcement and Assistant City Solicitor for Civil Litigation. The meeting will begin in open session, then close by majority vote as permitted under state personnel law. No votes or decisions are reported on the agenda; it is a discussion-only session.

• Review of applications and interviews for Assistant City Solicitor for Law Enforcement
• Review of applications and interviews for Assistant City Solicitor for Civil Litigation
• Council-Elect will vote to close the meeting for personnel discussions

Executive Session

The Newport City Council-Elect will meet in open session to vote to convene an executive session. Behind closed doors, they will discuss the positions of City Solicitor, Municipal Court Judge, and Probate Court Judge, including applicants for those roles. No other business is listed.

• Discussion of City Solicitor position and applicants
• Discussion of Municipal Court Judge position and applicants
• Discussion of Probate Court Judge position and applicants

Regular Session

The Newport City Council approved additional funding for the Rogers High School construction project without a named funding source, and approved a lease for office space at 449 Thames Street after amending it from five years to three. The council also approved numerous liquor and victualing license renewals, several contract awards, and adopted ordinances on holidays and mooring regulations. A motion to continue the 449 Thames Street lease item failed 0-7.

• Approved additional funding for Rogers High School construction (unanimous)
• Approved lease for office space at 449 Thames St. reduced from 5 to 3 years (5-2)
• Approved 2024-2025 liquor license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved 2024-2025 victualing license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of The Red Parrot liquor license to 348 Thames Opco, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved masonry repair contract for Innovate Newport (unanimous)
• Approved roof replacement contract for Martin Recreation Center (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending holiday schedule (unanimous)

Council Elect Caucus

The Newport Council-Elect will meet to informally elect a chair and vice chair for the 2024-2026 term. No other business is on the agenda.

• Informal election of Chair for 2024-2026 term
• Informal election of Vice Chair for 2024-2026 term

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will hold an executive session to discuss litigation (Salve dorm case and Barbera v. City), the potential sale or lease of Coggeshall School property, and the Deputy City Manager position. The meeting begins with an open session vote to close the doors; no public deliberation or decisions will occur in the open portion.

• Discussion of Salve dorm litigation status
• Barbera et al v. City of Newport, et al (NC2024-0056)
• Disposition of the Coggeshall School Property
• Deputy City Manager Position discussion
• Management actions involving Question 6

Regular Session

The Newport City Council approved a resolution regarding the Rogers High School landfill and disposition of remaining soil, related to the school's completion, by a 6-1 vote with Councilor Lima opposed. The council also approved numerous liquor and victualing license renewals, including the transfer of The Fifth Element's liquor license to Chomp Newport, LLC, and adopted several ordinances and resolutions covering harbor regulations, a mooring field installation contract, and a water/wastewater rate study.

• Approved Rogers High School landfill & soil disposition resolution (6-1, Lima opposed)
• Approved liquor license transfer from The Fifth Element to Chomp Newport, LLC, subject to payment of all bills of indebtedness
• Approved 2024-2025 liquor license renewals, including Gardiner House (Holder recused)
• Approved new victualing licenses for Empire Tea & Coffee and Chomp Kitchen and Drinks
• Approved 2024-2025 annual victualing license renewals
• Reappointed Russ Johnson to Zoning Board; Richard Cromwell and Jarrod Pimentel to Planning Board
• Adopted ordinance amending city holidays; resolution amending Navisite hosting contract
• Adopted harbor ordinance revisions on rental mooring insurance and mooring tackle; awarded mooring field installation contract

Regular Session

The Newport City Council approved an ordinance amending Chapter 10.56.010 on one-way streets on second reading, with Councilor Lima opposed. The council also unanimously approved the consent calendar, including several special event permits and a holiday selling license, and made appointments to boards and commissions. A resolution related to Ann Street Pier litigation was adopted unanimously.

• Approved ordinance amending one-way street designations (4-1)
• Approved consent calendar with exception of item b(5) (unanimous)
• Approved Aquidneck Growers Market license (unanimous)
• Appointed Paul Miller to Public Sculpture Commission (4-1)
• Appointed William Finlay to Historic District Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Mary Ann Marin to Canvassing Authority (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution on Ann Street Pier litigation (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution on Passport Pay by Phone app extension (unanimous)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in executive session before the regular meeting to discuss issues related to Ann Street pier litigation, including potential settlement. The council will first convene in open session and vote to close the meeting as permitted by state law.

• Executive session discussion of Ann Street pier litigation and settlement
• Open session vote to close meeting for collective bargaining or litigation purposes

Workshop

The City Council held a workshop to discuss the resident sticker parking program and the ITC (Innovate Newport) petition process. Staff and department heads presented recommendations and updates, but no formal votes were taken.

• Discussion of resident sticker parking program and staff working group recommendations
• Presentation by Finance Director Jim Nolan on program recommendations
• Input from Police Chief Ryan Duffy and IT Director Nick Craig
• City Engineer Bill Boardman addressed the sticker parking petition process
• City Solicitor Behan and City Manager Kennedy participated in discussion

Workshop

The Newport City Council held a workshop on October 2, 2024, to discuss traffic calming measures on Admiral Kalbfus Road. Discussion occurred among the council, City Manager Kennedy, and 12 members of the public who addressed the council. No formal action was taken as this was a workshop.

• Workshop on Admiral Kalbfus traffic calming
• Public comments from 12 residents

Boards and Commissions Interviews

The Newport City Council conducted interviews for the Historic District Commission alternate position and the Canvassing Authority alternate position. No appointments or other substantive decisions were made during the meeting; it was procedural only.

• Interviewed Kenny Benell for Historic District Commission alternate
• Interviewed Brooke Richter for Historic District Commission alternate
• Ben Willet did not appear for his interview
• Interviewed Mary Ann Marin for Canvassing Authority alternate

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will hold an executive session on September 25, 2024, to discuss potential litigation regarding the ban on short-term rentals in commercial zoning districts. The council will first convene in open session to vote on closing the meeting. This is a closed session allowed under state law for collective bargaining or litigation matters.

• Executive session discussion of potential litigation concerning the ban on short-term rentals in commercial zoning districts

Regular Session

The City Council will review several second readings of ordinances related to business districts, development standards, and sewer service charges. The body will also vote on contracts for the King Park Seawall and Murphy Field restoration.

• Award of contract for RIMPA-King Park Seawall professional design and construction services
• Award of bid for Murphy Field tennis and basketball court restoration
• Purchase of two 2024 Harley Davidson FLHTP Electra Glide law enforcement motorcycles
• Ordinance revision for one-way street designation on Dixon Street from Thames Street to Spring Street
• New entertainment license hearing for Thames Street Kitchen and Chanterelle Restaurant at 505 & 509 Thames St.

The Newport City Council met on September 25, 2024, and approved several routine items, including liquor licenses, special event permits, appointments, and various resolutions. The most significant action was a series of votes on proposed zoning ordinance amendments (Chapters 17.04, 17.14, 17.52, 17.56, 17.60), all of which failed on 3-3 tie votes, with Councilors Napolitano, Ceglie, and Holder opposed. The council did approve amendments to other chapters, including 17.78 (Accessory Uses) and 17.100 (Development Standards), and adopted the sewer service charge amendment (Chapter 13.12) unanimously.

• Approved Consent Calendar including liquor licenses and special events (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license for Thames Street Kitchen and Chanterelle Restaurant (5-1)
• Denied victualing license for Wally's Quick Serve (0-6)
• Appointed Penny Finch to Energy and Environment Commission (unanimous)
• Reappointed Deborah Peart to Historic Cemetery Advisory Commission (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution for Cliff Walk Adopt-an-Access MOUs (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance for one-way street signs on Dixon Street (unanimous)
• Failed to adopt zoning amendments for Chapters 17.04, 17.14, 17.52, 17.56, 17.60 (3-3)

Special Session

The Newport City Council is holding a special session to discuss and act on an ordinance revision to Section 13.12.010, which sets basic sewer service charges. The item is the only matter on the agenda for this meeting, and a vote will decide whether to adopt the revised fee structure.

• Ordinance revision to Sewer Service Charges (13.12.010) — basic charges

Workshop

The City Council held a workshop to discuss utility billing, focusing on a proposal to rescind the current sewer tax rate and reinstate the rate in effect before July 1. No formal vote was taken; the council discussed scheduling a special meeting within the next week to consider the proposal.

• Discussed scheduling a special council meeting to propose rescinding the sewer tax rate and reinstating the pre-July 1 rate

Regular Session

The Newport City Council approved multiple zoning ordinance amendments on first reading, covering general requirements, permitted uses, business districts, accessory uses, development standards, parking, and definitions. The council also approved resolutions to reverse Dixon Street direction, add traffic calming on Admiral Kalbfus Road, and address seasonal rentals. A resolution on offshore wind development failed 4-3.

• Approved consent calendar unanimously
• Approved entertainment license for Thames Street Kitchen (6-1)
• Postponed Newport Yacht Club lease amendment indefinitely
• Adopted weight-restricted streets ordinance revision unanimously
• Adopted zoning ordinance amendments on first reading (6-1 for most, unanimous for two)
• Approved Dixon Street direction reversal unanimously
• Approved traffic calming on Admiral Kalbfus Road unanimously
• Approved seasonal rentals resolution unanimously

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in an executive session to discuss an amendment to the lease between the City of Newport and the Newport Yacht Club. This closed session is held under Rhode Island General Laws regarding the lease of real property for public purposes.

• Discussion of lease amendment between City of Newport and Newport Yacht Club

Regular Session

The City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Housing Chapter of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan, with a first reading of an ordinance. They will also consider a consent calendar for special events, new entertainment and victualing licenses, and several action items including a $98.5 million bond resolution. Second readings of ordinances include adding a new chapter on Accessory Dwelling Units. The Council will then convene as the Board of License Commissioners for liquor license matters.

• Public hearing on amendments to Comprehensive Land Use Plan Housing Chapter
• Continued discussion of $98.5 million bond resolution
• New entertainment licenses for Saltwater (49 America's Cup Ave.) and The Reef (10 West Howard Wharf)
• Second readings of ordinances, including new Accessory Dwelling Unit chapter
• Resolution to name Stone Pier Dinghy Dock

The Newport City Council adopted the $98.5 million bond resolution (5-1), rejecting an amendment to remove the Maher Center and add $5 million for Almy Pond cleanup. The council also approved the first reading of the Housing Chapter ordinance (4-1) and adopted the Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance on second reading (5-1) after adding a parking requirement. Several licenses and permits were approved unanimously.

• Adopted $98.5M bond resolution (5-1)
• Rejected amendment to remove Maher Center and add $5M for Almy Pond (1-5)
• Approved Housing Chapter ordinance on first reading (4-1, Aramli abstained)
• Adopted Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance on second reading (5-1) with parking amendment
• Approved entertainment license for Saltwater (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license for The Reef (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar for special events (unanimous)
• Approved settlement with RIDOT (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Newport City Council tabled the Tourism Improvement District proposal (4-2) and advanced several zoning amendments on first reading, including a new Accessory Dwelling Unit chapter (6-1). It also approved a $98.5 million bond resolution with an amendment, continued a lease amendment to September, and approved multiple licenses and contracts.

• Tabled Tourism Improvement District (4-2)
• Adopted ADU zoning chapter on first reading (6-1)
• Adopted zoning definitions, development standards, and unified review amendments on first reading (unanimous)
• Approved $98.5M bond resolution with amendment (unanimous)
• Continued Newport Yacht Club lease amendment to September (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar with exceptions (unanimous)
• Approved multiple new licenses (unanimous)
• Tabled entertainment license for Thames Street Kitchen (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Newport City Council unanimously adopted 11 zoning-related ordinance amendments on second reading, covering definitions, residential districts, signs, parking, and other land-use topics. A proposed resolution to draft a 12-hour resident sticker parking ordinance failed on a 2-4 vote. The council also continued a public hearing on the Newport Tourism Improvement District, approved several licenses and appointments, and received updates on the North End bridge realignment and traffic safety.

• Adopted 11 zoning ordinance amendments on second reading (unanimous)
• Continued public hearing on Newport Tourism Improvement District (3-2)
• Failed resolution to draft 12-hour resident sticker parking ordinance (2-4)
• Approved sidewalk cafe license for Root, 6 Broadway (unanimous)
• Approved new victualing and sidewalk cafe licenses for Chanterelle/Thames Street Kitchen (unanimous)
• Appointed Christina Guarin and Edith Cowley to Energy and Environment Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar including special events and license renewals (unanimous)
• Approved purchase and sale agreement with RIDOT for 81 Garfield Street (unanimous)

Regular Session

The Council approved several first-reading zoning amendments and a resolution regarding non-owner-occupied short-term rentals. A resolution on public safety was passed, while a proposal regarding parking was defeated. The Board of License Commissioners also approved several liquor and selling licenses.

• Approved first reading of zoning amendments for General Provisions, Innovation Hub, Signs, and others (Unanimous)
• Approved amended zoning definition for 'lot building coverage' (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution regarding non-owner-occupied short-term rentals (Unanimous)
• Approved amended public safety resolution (6-1)
• Denied parking resolution (2-5)
• Approved electrical service upgrade bid for Edward King House (Unanimous)
• Approved contract for combined public safety complex feasibility study (Unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license expansion for Wally’s Wieners (Unanimous)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in executive session on July 10, 2024. The council intends to discuss issues regarding the use of Liberty Square.

• Discussion regarding the use of Liberty Square

Regular Session

The City Council unanimously approved a resolution to fund the Rogers High School building project, amending the initial request from $4 million to $3 million. The Council also unanimously approved a resolution regarding seasonal rentals and adopted the City of Newport Strategic Plan 2024. Several contracts for infrastructure improvements, including pavement marking and sewer rehabilitation, were approved.

• Approved $3M funding resolution for Rogers High School building project (4-3 vote on final passage after amendment)
• Approved resolution on seasonal rentals (unanimous)
• Adopted City of Newport Strategic Plan 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license expansion for Wally’s Wieners (unanimous)
• Approved victualing license expansion for Gardiner House with amendment (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Richard Wick Rudd as Zoning Board Chair (6-0)
• Approved award of bid for 2024 Pavement Marking Program (unanimous)
• Approved change order for sewer rehabilitation contract (unanimous)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in executive session on June 26, 2024. The council intends to discuss issues regarding the use of Liberty Square. This closed meeting follows an open session vote to convene.

• Discussion of issues relating to the use of Liberty Square

Workshop with Planning Board

The Newport City Council and Planning Board will hold a joint workshop regarding housing. The provided agenda contains only the meeting notice and does not list specific items or projects for discussion.

Regular Session

The City Council established a Tourism and Marketing District and adopted a noise abatement ordinance regarding motorized vehicles. The Council also approved multiple municipal bids for road materials, water treatment, and athletic turf improvements. Several special event and victualing licenses were granted.

• Approved Tourism and Marketing District resolution (Unanimous)
• Adopted noise abatement ordinance amendment for motorized vehicles (Unanimous)
• Approved engineering services for Gateway Parking Garage (Unanimous)
• Approved bid for Murphy Field Athletic Turf Improvements (Unanimous)
• Approved no-parking zone for Hall of Fame Open on Memorial Blvd (6-1)
• Appointed Raymond Goddard to Historic District Commission (6-0)
• Approved victualing license expansion for Bar & Board (Unanimous)
• Ordered public hearing for proposed Zoning Ordinance amendments (Unanimous)

Board Interviews

The City Council held an interview for the Zoning Board Chair position on May 31, 2024, questioning applicant Richard Wick Rudd. Chair Khamsyvoravong left at 10:27 a.m., and Vice Chair Ceglie chaired the rest of the interview. The minutes record no decision, vote, or appointment; they document only the interview and the questions asked.

Board Interviews

The City Council held interviews on May 28, 2024, for the Zoning Board Chair and a Canvassing Board member. Only two of seven council members were present: Xay Khamsyvoravong and Lynn Underwood Ceglie. Susan Perkins was interviewed for Zoning Board Chair and Donato D'Andrea for the Board of Canvasser. The minutes record no decisions, votes, or appointments; the meeting adjourned at 6:30 p.m.

Regular Session

The City Council approved the FY2025 Annual Budget and associated ordinances following a public hearing. The Council also authorized several pier-related contracts and approved multiple special event and victualing licenses.

• Approved FY2025 Annual Budget as amended (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance Appropriating Revenues and Personnel Ordinance (6-1 each)
• Adopted ordinance amending Sewer Service Charge Basic Charge (6-1)
• Approved resolution for Omnibus Property Tax Relief and Replacement Act (Unanimous)
• Adopted resolution authorizing the Tax Levy (Unanimous)
• Approved contracts for Ann Street Pier Extension and Elm Street Pier demolition (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution opposing jitney license for Comedy Bus, LLC (Unanimous)
• Denied motion to remove Deputy City Manager position to fund schools (5-2)

Zoning Board Interviews

The City Council held an interview session on May 22, 2024 for the Zoning Board Chair position. Applicant Melissa Pattavina was interviewed with a set list of questions covering her reasons for seeking the role, relevant experience, conflicts of interest, familiarity with zoning ordinances and governing statutes, and workload readiness. The minutes record no vote, appointment, or other decision; the meeting adjourned at 5:52 p.m.

• No decisions recorded; meeting was an interview session only
• Interviewed applicant Melissa Pattavina for Zoning Board Chair
• Adjourned at 5:52 p.m.

Regular Session

The Newport City Council held a public hearing on the FY2025 Annual Budget and approved three related ordinances on first reading, each by a 6-1 vote with Councilor Carlin opposed. The council also approved a second-reading ordinance on city piers and docks fees unanimously, and approved a supplemental agreement for the Newport City Hall and Easton's Beach condition assessment. Several resolutions were withdrawn, and a request to close Washington Square for a Juneteenth event was referred to the city administration for a recommendation.

• Approved FY2025 Annual Budget ordinances on first reading (6-1, Carlin opposed)
• Approved ordinance amending sewer service charge basic charge on first reading (6-1, Carlin opposed)
• Adopted city piers and docks fees ordinance on second reading (unanimous)
• Received supplemental agreement for Newport City Hall/Easton's Beach condition assessment (unanimous)
• Withdrew resolution opposing Comedy Bus tour (unanimous)
• Withdrew Aquidneck Grower's Market agreement resolution (unanimous)
• Referred Washington Square Juneteenth street closure request to city administration (unanimous)
• Approved consent calendar except items b(1), b(9), b(10), e, f (unanimous)

Special Session

The Newport City Council disclosed votes from a closed session, selecting Colin Kennedy as City Manager over Laura Sitrin. The Council subsequently approved Kennedy's employment agreement and appointment by a 5-2 vote. A motion to reduce the proposed salary to $189,000 was defeated 4-3.

• Selected Colin Kennedy as City Manager (4-3 vote in closed session)
• Rejected selection of Laura Sitrin as City Manager (3-4 vote in closed session)
• Defeated motion to reduce City Manager salary to $189,000 (4-3 vote)
• Approved employment agreement and appointment of Colin Kennedy as City Manager (5-2 vote)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in open session to vote on entering a closed executive session at 5:00 p.m. on May 8, 2024, before its regular meeting. The closed session will cover three items: the lease, acquisition, or disposition of the Coggeshall School property; the lawsuit Barbera et al v. City of Newport, et al (NC2024-0056); and collective bargaining agreements with Local 1080, International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) and Lodge No. 8, Fraternal Order of Police (FOP). All discussions are authorized under Rhode Island law for real property negotiations and collective bargaining or litigation. No decisions will be made in public on these items.

• Closed session on Coggeshall School property lease, acquisition, or disposition
• Discussion of lawsuit Barbera et al v. City of Newport, et al (NC2024-0056)
• Collective bargaining with Local 1080, IAFF (fire fighters)
• Collective bargaining with Lodge No. 8, FOP (police)
• Open session vote to convene closed session at 5:00 p.m. at City Hall, 43 Broadway

Workshop

The City Council conducted a workshop regarding the budget overview for utilities, specifically water and water pollution control. Director of Utilities Robert Schultz provided a budget presentation and discussed the items with Council members. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Workshop

The City Council and School Committee held a joint workshop to review the school budget. Director of Administration and Finance Ronald Gonsalves presented the budget, followed by a discussion with Superintendent Colleen Burns Jermain. No formal votes or decisions were recorded.

Workshop

The City Council held a budget overview workshop on April 30, 2024, covering Public Services, Planning/Economic Development, and Zoning & Inspections. William Riccio (Director of Public Services), Patricia Reynolds (Director of Planning and Economic Development), and William Moore (Building Official) addressed the Council and discussion occurred. The minutes record no votes, approvals, denials, or dollar figures — only the presentation and discussion. The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

Workshop

The City Council held a workshop on April 29, 2024, to review budget overviews for the Fire, Maritime, Parking, and Resilience & Sustainability departments. Department heads and the Interim Finance Director presented information, followed by discussion among council members. No formal votes or binding decisions were recorded in these minutes.

• Budget overviews presented for Fire, Maritime, Parking, and Resilience & Sustainability
• Discussion held among Council members regarding department budgets
• No formal motions, votes, or approvals recorded

Regular Session

The Newport City Council approved the FY2025 Annual Budget for a public hearing on May 8 and awarded a mobile food and beverage contract for Easton's Beach. The Council also unanimously passed a resolution supporting suicide prevention barriers on bridges and amended harbor ordinances regarding dinghy dock rules and fees. Several special event licenses were approved, including for the Audrain Concours and the Amica Newport Marathon, while the Juneteenth event was approved without its requested street closures.

• FY2025 Annual Budget received and ordered advertised for public hearing
• Mobile Food and Beverage Service Provider contract for Easton's Beach approved (6-1)
• Resolution supporting suicide prevention barriers on bridges passed unanimously
• Harbor Ordinance amendments for dinghy dock rules and fees approved unanimously
• Sidewalk Improvement Program 2023 supplemental agreement approved unanimously
• Juneteenth 2024 event license approved without street closures (unanimous)
• Audrain Newport Concours special event license approved unanimously
• Amica Newport Marathon special event license approved unanimously

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in open session to vote on entering a closed executive session to discuss the qualifications of the two final candidates for the City Manager position and select one. The meeting is scheduled for April 24, 2024, at 6:30 pm or after the regular council meeting at City Hall.

• Closed session under R.I. General Laws for personnel issues
• Discussion of two remaining city manager candidates
• Selection of one candidate for City Manager position
• Open session vote to convene closed session
• Meeting at Newport City Hall, 43 Broadway

Workshop

The Newport City Council held a workshop to discuss Easton's Beach matters, focusing on the 2024 season operation plans and concession plans. Beach and Recreation Administrator Erik Reis provided information, and public comments were heard from three individuals. No formal decisions were made; the workshop was informational.

• Discussion of 2024 season operation plans for Easton's Beach
• Concession plans for Easton's Beach presented
• Public comments from Katie Potter (Newport Chowder Company), Mike Wile (1899, LLC), and John Boxer (35 Prairie Ave.)
• Council member David Carlin was absent

Workshop

The City Council conducted a workshop regarding a budget overview. Interim Finance Director Laura Sitrin and Police Chief Ryan Duffy addressed the Council. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in open session, then vote to enter executive session to interview candidates for the City Manager position and discuss them. The meeting is scheduled for 9:00 AM on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at Newport City Hall, 43 Broadway.

• Executive session for city manager candidate interviews
• Open session vote to convene closed session
• Meeting at Newport City Hall, 43 Broadway

Regular Session

The Newport City Council will hold its regular session on April 10, 2024, covering a consent calendar with special event permits and license renewals, plus several action items. Key decisions include allocating $75,000 for a van for the Edward King House Senior Center, awarding contracts for architecture services for Perrotti Park public facilities and travel management, and a show cause hearing for Bossy Monkey Corporation. The council will also hear a first reading of an ordinance amendment regarding boards and commissions, and receive the police department's 2023 annual report.

• Allocation of $75,000 for purchase of a van for Edward King House Senior Center
• Award of contract for professional architecture services for Perrotti Park Public Facilities reconstruction
• Award of contract for travel management services
• Show cause hearing for Bossy Monkey Corporation, 472 Thames Street, for failure to meet conditions of victualing license
• First reading of ordinance amending Chapter 2.56 Boards and Commissions

Executive Session

The Newport City Council is meeting on April 8, 2024, to conduct interviews for the position of City Manager. The council will first convene in open session to vote on entering a closed executive session, citing Rhode Island law allowing closed meetings for personnel issues. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Executive session interviews for City Manager position
• Open session vote to enter closed session
• Meeting at Newport City Hall, 43 Broadway

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will meet in open session before entering an executive session. The closed portion of the meeting is designated for conducting interviews regarding the position of City Manager.

• Interviews for the Position of City Manager

Executive Session

The Newport City Council is holding an executive session to conduct interviews for the position of City Manager. The council will first meet in open session to vote on convening the closed session, as required by Rhode Island law for personnel discussions.

• Executive session for City Manager interviews
• Open session vote to close meeting
• Meeting at Newport City Hall, 43 Broadway

Workshop

The Newport City Council is holding a workshop to discuss zoning ordinances. The agenda provides no specific details on which zoning topics will be addressed, as it is a general notice for the meeting.

• Workshop on zoning ordinances

Workshop

The Newport City Council is meeting to discuss the performance of the Government Relations Consultant and the city's legislative strategy. The council will first convene in open session, then vote to move into a closed executive session under Rhode Island law for personnel issues. This is a procedural meeting focused on a specific personnel and strategy discussion.

• Discussion of Government Relations Consultant performance
• Review of city's legislative strategy
• Vote to enter executive session under R.I. Gen. Laws 42-46-5(a)(1)
• Meeting at City Hall, 43 Broadway, Newport

Regular Session

The City Council adopted the Capital Improvement Program in concept and awarded a bid for the 2024 Road Improvement Program. The Council also approved plans for a skate park and allocated $75,000 for a community center van.

• Adopted Capital Improvement Program in concept (Unanimous)
• Awarded Bid # 24-012 for Road Improvement Program 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 for purchase of a Community Center Van (Unanimous)
• Approved proposed skate park plans (Unanimous)
• Approved Aquidneck Grower's Market license subject to contract approval (6-1)
• Approved resolution for Easton's Beach nourishment as amended (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution for Litter Free Rhody (Unanimous)
• Approved various sidewalk and street café license renewals (Unanimous)

Workshop

The Newport City Council will meet to discuss the search for a new City Manager. The Council will also discuss replacing the Chair of the Newport Zoning Board of Review in executive session.

• City Manager search discussion
• Replacement of the Chair of the Newport Zoning Board of Review

Regular Session

The City Council approved the bid for the demolition of Easton's Beach and awarded a contract for short-term rental compliance solutions. The Council also passed a resolution supporting a $2.5M funding request for the Newport Contemporary Ballet's Center for Arts, Dance & Education.

• Approved Easton's Beach demolition bid (6-1)
• Approved short-term rental compliance solutions contract (Unanimous)
• Approved $2.5M support resolution for Newport Contemporary Ballet (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution recognizing Edward King House Senior Center (Unanimous)
• Approved mobile food cart license for Del's Lemonade (Unanimous)
• Tabled resolution on real estate tax for General Assembly (Unanimous)
• Approved Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan resolution (Unanimous)
• Approved Strategic Plan Implementation Assistance contract (Unanimous)

Regular Session

The City Council approved a resolution requesting the RI General Assembly authorize up to $98.5 million in bonds for infrastructure. The Council also approved several service contracts and requested state legislation for new lodging and ticket taxes.

• Requested state authority for infrastructure bonds up to $98.5M (6-1)
• Requested state legislation for a lodging tax for infrastructure and resiliency (6-1)
• Requested state legislation for a ticket tax for infrastructure and public safety (4-3)
• Approved contract for Capital Communications Group for advocacy services (6-1)
• Approved professional services for Elm St. Pier demolition and rebuild (Unanimous)
• Approved automated speed and traffic light enforcement (Unanimous)
• Approved easement for New Rogers High School project with 'no blasting' language (Unanimous)
• Tabled zoning ordinance changes and accessory dwelling unit ordinance (Unanimous)

Workshop

The Newport City Council is holding a workshop to discuss the selection of a strategic planning consultant. The agenda contains no other business items.

• Workshop on strategic planning consultant

Regular Session

The City Council approved raising cruise ship landing fees and awarded several contracts for roadway resurfacing and facility repairs. The Council also passed resolutions supporting public recreation on Gould Island and the R.I. League of Cities and Towns legislative priorities.

• Approved recommendation to raise cruise ship landing fees (Unanimous)
• Approved Roadway Resurfacing Project 2024 bid (Unanimous)
• Approved Cliff Walk Repair professional services contract (Unanimous)
• Approved James L. Maher Center feasibility study and design contract (Unanimous)
• Approved Brick Market Newport History Museum HVAC services contract (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution advocating for 16.9 acres of Gould Island for public recreation (Unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 support for R.I. City and Town Clerk’s Association (Unanimous)
• Appointed Jarrod Pimentel to the Planning Board (Unanimous)

CIP Workshop

The City Council and School Committee held a workshop to discuss the Capital Improvement Program. Interim City Manager Laura Sitrin addressed the Council, and members discussed projects and programs requiring future funding. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Workshop

The Newport City Council is holding a workshop to discuss the Capital Improvement Program and a potential staffing reorganization. This is a discussion session, not a final decision-making meeting.

• Capital Improvement Program discussion
• Potential staffing reorganization discussion

Workshop

This is the approved minutes of a January 24, 2024 City Council workshop where members interviewed three firms for a Government Relations Consultant contract to advocate for Newport at the State House. Four council members were present; three were absent. The interviews covered each firm's team, Newport's advocacy challenges, conflicts of interest, legislative relationships, and other municipal clients.

• Interviewed Advocacy Solutions, LLC (Frank McMahon, Grant Pilkington; Christopher Hunter unable to attend)
• Interviewed Capitol Communications Group (Peter Baptista, Nicholas Hemond)
• Interviewed Nicole O'Loughlin
• Council members present: Xay Khamsyvoravong, Angela McCalla, Jeanne Marie Napolitano, Lynn Underwood Ceglie
• Absent: David Carlin, Charlie Holder, Mark Aramli

Regular Session

The City Council authorized the City Manager to hire environmental and legal consultants to investigate a landfill and soil stockpile at Rogers High School. The Council also approved several business licenses and endorsed a redevelopment plan for Gould Island.

• Authorized environmental and legal consultants to investigate Rogers High School landfill and soil stockpile (5-1)
• Approved Newport International Boat Show license (Unanimous)
• Approved outdoor skating rink entertainment license for Fifth Element with amended Sunday hours (Unanimous)
• Approved new entertainment license for The Quencher Newport (Unanimous)
• Appointed Patricia Antonelli to the Planning Board (6-0)
• Endorsed the Gould Island redevelopment plan (Unanimous)
• Approved easement for subterranean vault at 50 Washington Square (Unanimous)
• Tabled Newport Design Week application (Unanimous)

Workshop

The City Council and School Committee held a workshop to receive an update on the spending impact of enrollment decline regarding ESSER/DSP funds. No substantive decisions were recorded.

Regular Session

The Newport City Council unanimously adopted amendments to the General Fee Schedule and Zoning ordinances. They approved special event licenses for the NAACP, Newport Folk Festival, Newport Jazz Festival, and the U.S. Senior Open Championship. The Council also appointed new members to the Planning Board and Historic District Commission and honored a long-serving HR director.

• Adopted amendment to General Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment to Zoning ordinances (unanimous)
• Approved NAACP MLK Program license (unanimous)
• Approved Newport Folk Festival license (unanimous)
• Approved Newport Jazz Festival license (unanimous)
• Approved U.S. Senior Open Championship license (unanimous)
• Appointed Paul McGreevy to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Raymond Goddard to Historic District Commission (5-0)

Executive Session

The Newport City Council will hold an open session to vote on entering a closed executive session to discuss the search for a City Manager. The executive session is authorized under Rhode Island law for personnel issues. No other business is listed on this agenda.

• Executive session to discuss City Manager search
• Open session vote to convene closed session
• Meeting at City Hall, 43 Broadway, Newport

Boards and Commissions Interviews

The Newport City Council is holding interviews on January 6, 2024, for five applicants seeking appointment to the Planning Board and Historic District Commission. The council may also discuss how they will vote on the appointments at a future regular council meeting.

• Interviews scheduled for Michael Mullaney, Jarrod Pimentel, Paul McGreevy, Raymond Goddard, and Patricia Antonelli
• Meeting at City Hall, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 43 Broadway, Newport, RI
• Council may discuss potential votes on appointments

Workshop

The Newport City Council held a workshop with state legislators to discuss and set the city's legislative priorities for 2024. The meeting was attended by council members, Senators Louis DiPalma and Dawn Euer, and Representatives Marvin Abney and Lauren Carson. No formal votes or decisions were made; the session was a discussion only.

• Discussion of 2024 legislative priorities with state delegation
• Attendance by Senators DiPalma and Euer, Representatives Abney and Carson
• Council member Charlie Holder absent

Workshop

The meeting consisted of a presentation on student testing data provided by Patricia Aull. No substantive decisions were made during this workshop.