Portsmouth public meetings in 2025

Tax Assessment Board of Review

The Portsmouth Tax Assessment Board of Review will hear a tax appeal from Anthony, John & Paul Recupero concerning Plat 57, Lot 25 at 265 Union Street. The board will also consider approving the minutes from its February 22, 2024 meeting. No other specific items are listed for deliberation.

• Tax appeal hearing for Anthony, John & Paul Recupero – Plat 57, Lot 25, 265 Union Street
• Approval of minutes from the February 22, 2024 meeting

The Tax Assessment Board of Review denied the appeal for 265 Union St., MAP 57, LOT 25. The minutes of the February 22, 2024 meeting were approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Denied appeal for 265 Union St., MAP 57, LOT 25 (motion carried with Finnegan and Rattay in favor)
• Approved minutes of the February 22, 2024 meeting (motion carried 2‑0 with Finnegan, Rattay in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried with all members in favor)

Planning Board

The Portsmouth Planning Board will hold a public hearing to review a preliminary plan for a comprehensive permit project submitted by Turnpike Holdings, LLC for the property at 97 Turnpike Avenue (Tax Assessor’s Plat 34 Lot 4, zoned Residential R‑20). The proposal seeks approval to develop twenty‑four residential dwelling units, with six units (25%) designated as low‑to‑moderate income. The board will also discuss proposed amendments to the town’s Sign Ordinance under Chapter 405, providing an advisory recommendation to the Town Council. Additionally, a progress report on the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision will be presented, covering required roadway and drainage work.

• Public hearing – preliminary plan review for Turnpike Holdings, 24 residential units at 97 Turnpike Ave (R‑20)
• Discussion of Chapter 405 zoning ordinance text amendments – revisions to the Sign Ordinance
• Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision progress report – final asphalt, drainage swales, concrete bounds, and related work
• Approval of minutes from October 23, 2025 and November 13, 2025 Planning Board meetings

The Planning Board voted unanimously to extend the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision deadline to the January 8, 2026 meeting. It also gave a favorable recommendation to the Town Council on the proposed sign‑ordinance text amendments. Finally, the Board recognized Ms. Small as a professional engineering expert in civil and site engineering.

• Extended Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision deadline to Jan 8 2026 (6‑0)
• Recommended Town Council adopt proposed Sign Ordinance text amendments (6‑0)
• Recognized Ms. Small as a professional engineering expert (6‑0)

Portsmouth Housing Authority

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board will discuss collaborating with the Town to expand affordable housing. The Board is considering a resolution to act as the Affordable Housing Advisory Board defined in the Town's Comprehensive Community Plan. Members will also review the 2025 Annual Report.

• Draft Resolution #2025-01 to support affordable housing goals in the Comprehensive Community Plan
• Status update on CDBG heating system upgrades for Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates
• Review of the 2025 PHA Annual Report
• Approval of September 17th, 2025 meeting minutes

The board approved the September 17, 2025 minutes. It unanimously adopted a resolution offering the Town of Portsmouth support and willingness to serve as the Affordable Housing Advisory Board. The board also authorized the chairman to update and submit the 2025 annual report. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved PHA resolution supporting affordable housing collaboration (unanimous)
• Authorized chairman to update and submit the 2025 annual report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will consider several items, including status reports on pending litigation and a police security complaint, routine financial approvals, and two specific actions: a $150 assessment on all Prudence Island properties and approval of a construction and maintenance agreement with RIDOT for Opticom detection systems. The meeting also includes a consent agenda, payment vouchers, and updates from the town administrator.

• Status reports from Town Solicitors on pending and threatened litigation involving the Town of Portsmouth
• Chief of Police report on complaints regarding Town Hall security
• Payment Voucher #1 206 approved for $65,940.03 and Payment Voucher #1 212 approved for $34,380.10
• Approve a $150 assessment on all Prudence Island properties in lieu of transfer station stickers
• Approve Construction & Maintenance Agreement between RIDOT and the Town of Portsmouth for Opticom detection systems

The council accepted the resignation of Dog Park Committee member Traci Strohl. It approved the consent agenda, including payment and tax vouchers, and rejected a $150 assessment for Prudence Island properties, later tabling that motion for January. The council also approved a Construction & Maintenance Agreement with RIDOT for Opticom detection systems.

• Accepted resignation of Dog Park Committee member Traci Strohl (7-0)
• Approved consent agenda (payment vouchers and tax vouchers) (7-0)
• Rejected $150 assessment on Prudence Island properties (3-4)
• Tabled $150 assessment motion for reconsideration in January (4-3)
• Approved Construction & Maintenance Agreement with RIDOT for Opticom detection systems (7-0)
• Received and filed correspondence (7-0)
• Motion to seal minutes and return to open session passed (7-0)
• Motion to adjourn passed (7-0)

Town Council

The Town Council will discuss the installation of Flock Safety cameras and reconsider a previous vote regarding a disc golf course at Glen Park. The body will also review 2026 legislative priorities and resident protections during SouthCoast Wind construction.

• Reconsideration of 9/8/25 vote for 18-hole disc golf course at Glen Park
• Request for municipal approval to install Flock Safety camera(s)
• Payment Voucher #1191 for $329,828.81
• Payment Voucher #1201 for $64,224.65
• Draft letter to EFSB regarding SouthCoast Wind construction resident protections

The Town Council approved two payment vouchers totaling $394,053.45, appointed Patricia Chretien to the Dog Park Committee, and accepted a draft letter to the EFSB about resident protections during SouthCoast Wind construction. It also received October finance reports, tabled a request for safety‑camera approval, and closed debate on rescinding a prior disc‑golf vote.

• Approved Payment Voucher #1 (11/6/25) for $329,828.8 (7-0)
• Approved Payment Voucher #1 (11/13/25) for $64,224.65 (7-0)
• Appointed Patricia Chretien to Dog Park Committee (7-0)
• Accepted draft letter to EFSB on SouthCoast Wind resident protections (7-0)
• Received and placed on file October 2025 Finance Report (7-0)
• Received and placed on file October 2025 School Finance Report (7-0)
• Tabled request for municipal approval of Flock safety cameras pending state police info (7-0)
• Motion to close debate on rescinding 9/8/25 disc‑golf vote passed (4-3)

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review approved the September and October 2025 meeting minutes. It unanimously approved several residential dimensional variances and special use permits, and postponed one application to the next meeting. All votes were 5‑0 in favor.

• Approved September 18, 2025 ZBR minutes (5-0)
• Approved October 16, 2025 ZBR minutes (5-0)
• Approved dimensional variance for 72 Camara Drive shed (5-0)
• Approved conditional dimensional variance for 70 Bayview Avenue (5-0)
• Approved special use permit for 70 Bayview Avenue (5-0)
• Approved dimensional variance for 91 Holliston Avenue porch (5-0)
• Continued 028 Edda Avenue deck application to Jan 15, 2026 (5-0)
• Approved 10'7" dimensional variance for 11 Schaefer Drive deck (5-0)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will hear an overview of broadband initiatives from the Rhode Island Commerce chief. The committee will also receive updates on the Aquidneck Island gas pipeline and related connections. Sub‑committee reports on relevant topics will be presented. The meeting will conclude with a discussion of Rhode Island business rankings and scheduling of the next meeting.

• Broadband initiatives overview presented by Daniela Fairchild, Chief Strategy Office, RI Commerce
• Sub‑committee reports on broadband and related topics
• Discussion of Aquidneck Island gas pipeline and connections
• Discussion of Rhode Island business rankings
• Scheduling of next meeting (date TBD)

The Economic Development Committee approved the October 15, 2025 minutes by unanimous vote. The committee discussed a draft position on reliable gas service and reviewed broadband initiatives presented by Commerce RI. No formal resolutions or approvals were made beyond the minutes and adjournment.

• Approved October 15, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings regarding a new residential development and modifications to a solar project. The board will also discuss proposed amendments to the town's Sign Ordinance.

• Preliminary plan review for 24 residential units (including 6 low-to-moderate income units) at 97 Turnpike Avenue
• Public hearing for modifications to 'West Main Solar 1' at 1348 West Main Road
• Progress report on Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights Subdivision regarding asphalt, drainage, and paving
• Advisory recommendation to Town Council on Chapter 405 Zoning Sign Ordinance text amendments

The Planning Board voted 7‑0 to move the Turnpike Holdings preliminary plan review and the zoning ordinance text amendments to the December 11 meeting. It also voted 7‑0 to continue the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision progress report to the December 11 meeting. Finally, the Board voted 7‑0 to approve the modification of the West Main Solar 1 project, allowing a subdivision, relinquishing the 40‑foot no‑cut buffer, moving the buffer east, and requiring 45‑50 new trees and berming.

• Moved Turnpike Holdings preliminary plan review and zoning ordinance text amendments to Dec 11 meeting (7‑0)
• Continued Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision progress report to Dec 11 meeting (7‑0)
• Approved West Main Solar 1 modification: subdivision, buffer change, and tree planting condition (7‑0)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will hold a public hearing on amending Chapter 215, Appendix B, to change the annual mooring fees. The council will also consider approval of several tax vouchers, payment vouchers, retirement‑plan amendments, and a request to relocate a utility pole. Additional discussion items include a presentation on temporary helicopter use for a transmission line project and grant application priorities for recreation facilities.

• Public hearing on amendment to Chapter 215 Harbormaster fees – annual mooring fees
• Approval of Tax Vouchers #20251110-01 to #20251110-03
• Payment Voucher #1169 for $598,582.68 and Voucher #1183 for $13,959.26 approved by Finance Director
• Proposed amendments to the town’s retirement plan documents (457 & 401a) under the SECURE 2.0 Act
• Request to relocate utility pole 82 at 258 Middle Rd by Narragansett Electric and Verizon New England

The council approved the amendment to the Harbormaster Ordinance, setting new fees for residents ($75), non‑residents ($14), commercial vessels ($350), outhauls ($70), guests ($70), wait‑list ($10) and applications ($10) with a 7‑0 vote. They also voted 7‑0 to reduce the Solid Waste and Recycling Committee membership from 11 to 7 members. The consent agenda and a motion to close the public hearing were each approved unanimously (7‑0).

• Consent agenda approved (7-0)
• Solid Waste and Recycling Committee membership reduced to 7 (7-0)
• Harbormaster fee schedule approved: Resident $75, Non-Resident $14, Commercial $350, Outhauls $70, Guest $70, Wait List $10, Application $10 (7-0)
• Public hearing closed (7-0)

Design Review Board

The board will review two residential housing projects by Church Community Housing Corporation—the North Lot (15 units) and the South Lot (25 units), each with at least 25% low‑to‑moderate‑income units. It will also consider a large storage facility proposal by Space‑Port, LLC on Highpoint Avenue, and a pre‑application for a 75,150‑sq‑ft self‑storage building at 1526 West Main Road by PV Asset Management and Regal LLC. All projects have received preliminary or combined master approvals from the Planning Board.

• North Lot – 13 Bristol Ferry Road & Sprague Street (Tax Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 24 & 25, Zoned Residential R‑20) – 15 residential units, ≥25% low‑to‑moderate‑income; preliminary plan approved Oct 9 2025
• South Lot – 0 Turnpike Avenue & Sprague Street (Tax Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 49, 50A, 50C, Zoned Residential R‑20) – 25 residential units, ≥25% low‑to‑moderate‑income; preliminary plan approved Oct 9 2025
• Space‑Port, LLC – 0 Highpoint Avenue (Tax Assessor’s Map 38 Lot 19, Zoned Limited Light Industry) – 80’ × 196’ storage facility (>7,500 sf); combined master/preliminary plan approved Nov 20 2024 and continued from Jan 6 2025
• PV Asset Management & Regal LLC – 1526 West Main Road (Tax Assessor’s Plat 51 Lot 34 & 34C, Zoned Commercial C) – pre‑application for a 75,150 sq ft self‑storage facility; recommended by Planning Board Oct 9 2025

Technical Review Committee

The Technical Review Committee will conduct a plan review of a comprehensive permit submitted by Turnpike Holdings, LLC for a residential development at 97 Turnpike Avenue. The proposal seeks to build 24 dwelling units, including six low‑to‑moderate‑income units. The committee will forward the preliminary application to the Planning Board meeting on November 13, 2025.

• Plan review of Turnpike Holdings, LLC proposal for 24 residential units at 97 Turnpike Avenue (Zoned R‑20)
• Six of the units (25%) designated as low‑to‑moderate‑income
• Application recorded as PLAN‑25‑3
• Preliminary plan to be docketed for the Planning Board meeting on November 13, 2025
• Copies available from Town Planning office (401‑643‑0499 Ext. 305) or [email protected]

The Technical Review Committee reviewed the Turnpike Holdings comprehensive permit application for 97 Turnpike Avenue, asked numerous questions about site conditions, utilities, road design, zoning variances, and permitting, but did not approve, deny, or table any items. No vote tally or formal decision was recorded.

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss a plan to develop two sports fields at the 3S property. The meeting also includes a request for $9,011.05 from the National Opioid Settlement Funds to purchase medical equipment, a lease proposal with the Senior Center, and a request to adjust quorum requirements for the Solid Waste and Recycling Committee. Several routine items such as payment vouchers, a peddler license renewal, and tax voucher approvals are on the consent agenda.

• Discussion/action to develop two sports fields at the 3S property
• Request for $9,011.05 from National Opioid Settlement Funds for IV pumps and related equipment
• Proposal for a lease between the Town of Portsmouth and the Senior Center
• Request to modify quorum requirements for the Solid Waste and Recycling Committee
• Payment Voucher #1154 for $1,256,596.17 and Voucher #1165 for $47,540.82 approved by the Finance Director

The Town Council voted 6‑0‑1 to approve a lease with the Senior Center, incorporating discussed changes. A separate motion passed 7‑0 to allocate $10,311.05 from the National Opioid Settlement for medical equipment and to consider an $888 annual service fee. The council also directed the Parks and Recreation Director to draft a Memorandum of Agreement for a potential disc‑golf facility and confirmed several committee appointments.

• Approved Senior Center lease with changes (6-0-1, 1 recusal)
• Allocated $10,311.05 from opioid settlement for medical equipment (7-0)
• Directed Parks & Recreation to develop disc‑golf MOA (7-0)
• Appointed David Kurland and Carrie Mathers‑Kurland to Dog Park Committee (7-0)
• Appointed Frank Rego to Economic Development Committee (7-0)
• Appointed Peter Tyer‑Witek as Youth Representative (7-0)
• Placed consent agenda on file (7-0)
• Approved tax vouchers (7-0)

Pension Advisory Committee Formerly Pension Investment Committee

The Portsmouth Pension Advisory Committee will discuss a strategy comparison for its real‑estate investment portfolios. It will also hear an economic and market review covering data through June 30, 2025, presented by Principal S. Geadelmann. No formal decisions are indicated on the agenda.

• Review Strategy Comparison on Real Estate Portfolios
• Economic and Market Review as of 06/30/2025 from Principal S. Geadelmann

The Pension Advisory Committee unanimously approved the October 27 meeting minutes. Members voted to table the review of the real‑estate portfolio strategy to a future meeting; no vote tally was recorded. An economic and market review was presented but no vote was taken. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled real‑estate portfolio strategy review (no vote taken)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss proposed text changes to the Town’s Sign Ordinance under Chapter 405, Article IX, Section B. It will provide an advisory recommendation to the Town Council on adopting the revised sign ordinance and related amendments. All related documents are available for public review at the Planning Department.

• Discuss proposed revisions to the Sign Ordinance (Chapter 405, Article IX, Section B)
• Provide advisory recommendation to Town Council on adopting the revised Sign Ordinance
• Review existing Sign Ordinance and Memo Sign Ordinance dated 9.15.25
• Consider documents titled SignOrd-Revised-Clean and SignOrd-Revised-NotesGG_25_0703

The board adopted a motion to keep discussing the draft sign ordinance and to provide an advisory recommendation to the Town Council at the November 13, 2025 Planning Board meeting. The motion passed unanimously with a 7‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Motion to continue discussing and provide advisory opinion on draft sign ordinance at Nov 13, 2025 meeting – Approved (7-0)
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – Approved

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board will review an old‑business request from Marcos Carapia to re‑approve a dimensional variance allowing a container shed of over 120 square feet on the front, rear, and side yard setbacks of 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way. The board will also consider a new‑business request from Lourdes Tallet for a dimensional variance to construct a new dwelling on 0 Alice Avenue, Prudence Island, a lot that does not front a public street. Both items involve residential (R‑20) zoning parcels.

• Re‑approval of Dimensional Variance for a container shed >120 sq ft at 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way (Tax Assessor’s Map 35 Lot 6B, R‑20).
• Dimensional Variance request to build a new dwelling on 0 Alice Avenue, Prudence Island (Tax Assessor’s Map 77 Lot 108G, R‑20).

The Zoning Board of Review voted 5‑0 to deny Marcos Carapia’s request to extend the container shed variance at 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way. The board also voted 5‑0 to grant Lourdes Tallet a dimensional variance to build a new dwelling on 0 Alice Avenue, Prudence Island.

• Denied container shed variance for 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way (5‑0 vote)
• Granted dimensional variance for new dwelling at 0 Alice Avenue, Prudence Island (5‑0 vote)

Economic Development Committee

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and discuss general topics including community partnerships and broadband. The public is invited to attend.

• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion on partnering with other communities
• Broadband sub-committee reports
• Next meeting scheduled for November 19, 2025

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee approved the September 17, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. The committee then adjourned the meeting, also unanimously. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken.

• Approved September 17, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss a request to authorize a five‑year Energy Service Agreement with NextEra for the Community Electricity program. It will also hold a public hearing on a variance to the Noise Ordinance for a Halloween block party on Taylor Road. Additional items include a proposed amendment to the Harbormaster Ordinance for mooring and fee changes, and routine licensing and infrastructure approvals.

• Presentation of a new 5‑year Energy Service Agreement and request to authorize a NextEra contract extension for the Community Electricity program
• Public hearing request for a variance to the Portsmouth Noise Ordinance for a Halloween block party on Taylor Road cul‑de‑sac on Oct 25 2025, 10 a.m.–11 p.m. (OpenGov #2989)
• Request for a public hearing on Nov 10 2025 to amend Chapter 215 Harbormaster Ordinance for mooring and fee increases
• Renewal of a mobile food establishment (peddler) license for Arthur Evans d/b/a South County Barbeque, 615 Congdon Hill Rd, Saunderstown (#9330)
• State of Rhode Island assent to construct a residential boating facility at 628 Park Avenue, including an 83‑ft fixed pier and a 3 × 20‑ft aluminum gangway

The council unanimously approved a new five‑year Energy Service Agreement with NextEra for the Community Electricity program. It also approved a variance allowing a Halloween block party on Taylor Road with a 75‑decibel sound limit, passing 6‑1. Additional actions included unanimous approvals of the consent agenda, tax vouchers, several committee appointments, and a motion to hold a public hearing on a Harbormaster Ordinance amendment.

• Approved 5‑year Energy Service Agreement with NextEra (unanimous)
• Approved Halloween block‑party noise variance – 75 dB max, end 10 PM (6‑1)
• Approved consent agenda and placed on file (unanimous)
• Approved Tax Voucher #2025‑10‑14‑01 (unanimous)
• Appointed members to Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed members to Harbor Commission and Housing Authority (unanimous)
• Approved public hearing for Harbormaster Ordinance amendment on Nov 10 (unanimous)
• Approved formal correspondence to Naval Station Newport for draft MOU (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings for preliminary plan reviews of two major land developments proposed by the Church Community Housing Corporation: the North Lot at 13 Bristol Ferry Road and Sprague Street for 15 residential units, and the South Lot at Turnpike Avenue and Sprague Street for 25 residential units, each requiring at least 25% low‑to‑moderate‑income housing. The board will also receive a progress report on the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision extension and consider several other development applications. Minutes from the September 11, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• Preliminary plan review hearing – North Lot, 13 Bristol Ferry Rd & Sprague St: 15 residential units, 25% low/moderate‑income
• Preliminary plan review hearing – South Lot, Turnpike Ave & Sprague St: 25 residential units, 25% low/moderate‑income
• Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision progress report – extension to complete asphalt, drainage swales, pond silt removal, concrete bounds, as‑built plans, and loam installation
• Pre‑application unified development review for a 75,150‑sq‑ft self‑storage facility at 1526 West Main Rd (commercial zone C)
• Modification request for West Main Solar 1 subdivision at 1348 West Main Rd – buffer relocation and subdivision changes

The Planning Board voted to accept the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes as written. The motion passed 5‑0, with Chairman Lopes, Vicechair Harding, Garceau, O’Connell, and Clukies voting yes; Tibbetts abstained.

• Approved September 11, 2025 minutes (5-0)

Planning Board

The Portsmouth Planning Board will conduct preliminary plan reviews for two major land developments called the North Lot and the South Lot. Both projects are presented by CHURCH COMMUNITY HOUSING CORPORTATION and seek comprehensive permits for residential units with a portion designated as low‑to‑moderate‑income. The board will consider the proposals during this special meeting.

• Preliminary plan review of the “North Lot” at 13 Bristol Ferry Road and Sprague Street (Tax Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 24 & 25, R‑20 zoning) – 15 residential units, 25% low‑to‑moderate‑income
• Preliminary plan review of the “South Lot” at 0 Turnpike Avenue and 0 Sprague Street (Tax Assessor’s Map 28 Lot 49, 50A, 50C, R‑20 zoning) – 25 residential units, 25% low‑to‑moderate‑income

The Planning Board voted to accept Paul Bannon as an expert witness on traffic engineering. The motion was made by Vice Chairman Harding, seconded by Ms. Wilson, and passed with a 6‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Accepted Paul Bannon as expert witness on traffic engineering (6-0)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss and vote on several matters, including a resolution to restore general revenue sharing to cities and towns. Other agenda items include a request to waive field fees for a youth soccer tournament, a public hearing notice for a sound variance on Taylor Road, and the establishment of a Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee. The council will also review payment vouchers and a proposal for a new mechanical float lift at 54 Aquidneck Avenue.

• Payment Voucher #1 106 on 9/4/25 for $ 117 ,3 8 9.8 8 approved by the Finance Director
• Payment Voucher #1 109 on 9/11/25 for $ 3 2 4 ,1 70 .7 4 approved by the Finance Director
• CRMC public notice: Lloyd & Deanna Monell request state assent to construct and maintain a new mechanical float lift at 54 Aquidneck Avenue
• Request to waive field fees for the 2025 tournament at Seveney Fields (Portsmouth Youth Soccer Association)
• Request to advertise a public hearing for a sound variance for a block party in the Taylor Road cul‑de‑sac on Oct 25, 2025, 10:00 am–11:00 pm (OpenGov #2989)

The council amended its position to oppose a moratorium on new gas hook‑ups on Aquidneck Island, passing the motion 4‑3. It also approved the CRMC public notice for a new mechanical float lift and several tax vouchers unanimously. Key committee appointments were confirmed, and a Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee was created.

• Approved CRMC public notice for Monell float lift (unanimous)
• Approved Tax Vouchers #2025‑... (unanimous)
• Accepted Dog Park Committee resignation (unanimous)
• Reappointed Daniel Corrigan to Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Jeanne Smith to Parks and Recreation Committee (6‑1)
• Appointed Paul Maleck to Zoning Board of Review (unanimous)
• Amended town position opposing gas hook‑up moratorium on Aquidneck Island (4‑3)
• Established Bike & Pedestrian Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board will first approve the draft minutes from April 17 and July 17, 2025. An earlier signage variance request for 3033 East Main Road was withdrawn by the applicant. The board will then consider four new applications for special use permits and dimensional variances on residential properties at Riverside Street, Annette Drive, and Cul‑De‑Sac Way.

• Special Use Permit and deck dimensional variance for 319 Riverside Street (R‑10)
• Dimensional variance to place a swimming pool 5 ft from rear line at 17 Annette Drive (R‑20)
• Special Use Permit and structural alteration variances for 269 Riverside Street (R‑10)
• Dimensional variances to locate a 120 sq ft container shed at 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way (R‑20)
• Withdrawal of signage dimensional variance request for 3033 East Main Road (C)

The Zoning Board approved a 3.2‑foot rear‑setback dimensional variance and a lot‑coverage increase to 49.9% for 319 Riverside Street, and also approved the associated special use permit (both 5‑0). It approved a 25‑foot rear‑setback variance for a swimming pool at 17 Annette Drive (5‑0). It approved front‑yard (2 ft 10 in) and side‑yard (6 in) dimensional variances and a special use permit for 269 Riverside Street (5‑0 each). All other items were either withdrawn or continued to the next meeting.

• Approved 3.2‑ft rear‑setback variance & lot coverage increase to 49.9% (5‑0) for 319 Riverside St
• Approved special use permit for 319 Riverside St (5‑0)
• Approved 25‑ft rear‑setback variance for pool at 17 Annette Drive (5‑0)
• Approved front‑yard variance of 2 ft 10 in for 269 Riverside St (5‑0)
• Approved side‑yard variance of 6 in for 269 Riverside St (5‑0)
• Approved special use permit for 269 Riverside St (5‑0)
• Continued dimensional variance request for 40 Cul‑De‑Sac Way to Oct 16 meeting
• Withdrawn application for 3033 East Main Road

Portsmouth Housing Authority

The board will approve the March 5, 2025 meeting minutes and review the recently approved $500,000 Community Development Block Grant. They will discuss plans with Sabattus Housing Inc. to use the grant for heating system replacement and upgrades at the Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates buildings, and consider future housing capacity priorities for town residents. No new business items are on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from the March 5, 2025 meeting
• Review award of a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant
• Discuss heating system replacement/upgrade at Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates
• Continue dialogue on future housing capacity priorities
• No new business items listed

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board approved the minutes from its March 5, 2025 meeting. No other actions were taken; the board received notice of a $500,000 CDBG award but did not vote on it. The meeting had no new business and did not enter executive session.

• Approved March 5, 2025 meeting minutes

Economic Development Committee

The committee will discuss economic development opportunities resulting from the new Fall River transit station. Members will also hold a general discussion regarding collaboration with the Middletown Economic Development Advisory Committee (MEDAC).

• Collaboration discussion with MEDAC Chair Valarie Gelb
• Discussion on opportunities from the new Fall River transit station

The committee unanimously approved the July 16, 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved the motion to adjourn the meeting. The committee decided to incorporate the discussion of a Fall River Transit Station and related bus and rail feasibility into its existing priority of economic development for the Melville area. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved July 16, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)
• Incorporated Fall River Transit Station feasibility discussion into Melville area economic development priority (decision, no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will approve the minutes from the August 14, 2025 meeting. It will discuss and recommend a corrective plat for the Cutler Court Subdivision, where BCM Realty Partners, LLC seeks to reduce the length of roadside drainage swales. The Board will receive a progress report on the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision, covering asphalt paving, drainage swale re‑establishment, pond silt removal, concrete bounds, as‑built plans, and loam installation. Finally, the Board will discuss moving planning‑board applications to the OpenGov portal, with required submission beginning October 1, 2025.

• Approve August 14, 2025 Planning Board minutes
• Recommend corrective plat to reduce roadside drainage swales at Cutler Court Subdivision (Tax Assessor’s Map 58 Lot 49)
• Progress report on Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights subdivision remediation (asphalt, drainage swales, pond silt removal, concrete bounds, as‑built plans, loam installation)
• Discuss moving planning‑board applications to OpenGov, required by October 1, 2025

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the August 14 meeting with a 4‑0 vote after a correction was added. The Board also approved a judgment authorizing Mr. Braga’s drainage solution for Cutler Court – raising pavement two inches, installing a Cape Cod berm, cleaning pipes and swales, and completing the work by the end of the calendar year – with a 5‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved August 14 minutes with correction (4‑0 vote)
• Approved Cutler Court drainage plan: raise pavement 2 inches, add Cape Cod berm, clean pipes/swales, complete by year‑end (5‑0 vote)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will meet on September 8, 2025, to discuss and vote on several key items, including a public hearing for Grafik Coffee's permanent expansion of alcohol service on their patio, proposed amendments to allow cannabis-infused beverages in local ordinances, and school construction application stages. The meeting will also address routine financial approvals, licensing matters, and town administrative reports.

• Permanent expansion of service area for Grafik Coffee, 2005 East Main Road, to allow food and alcohol service on patio (600 sq ft, 32 seats)
• Peddler License for IVA LLC d/b/a Shawarma Gyros, 13 Mystic St, Providence
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 89 Alcoholic Beverages to include cannabis-infused beverages
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 65 Unrestricted General Fund Balance to reflect 13-17% funding levels
• Payment vouchers totaling $517,406.27 and $430,113.21 for approved town expenses

The Town Council unanimously adopted Ordinance #2025-09-08 amending Chapter 89 to prohibit consumption of alcoholic or cannabinoid‑containing beverages in public parks, beaches, streets and sidewalks. The council also approved a temporary expansion of Grafik Coffee’s patio service area with a sunset date of October 31 2026, and granted a new peddler license to Shawarma Gyros. Additional actions included approving a two‑year trial for a disc‑golf course (4‑3), rejecting a General Fund Balance amendment (3‑4), approving a request to encourage natural‑gas alternatives (5‑2), and rejecting a resolution to rescind the stop‑work order on the Revolution Wind Project (3‑3‑1).

• Adopted Ordinance #2025-09-08 banning alcohol and cannabis drinks in parks, beaches, streets and sidewalks (unanimous)
• Approved temporary patio expansion for Grafik Coffee, sunset Oct 31 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved new peddler license for Shawarma Gyros (unanimous)
• Approved two‑year trial for disc‑golf course (4‑3)
• Rejected amendment to Chapter 65 General Fund Balance (3‑4)
• Approved request urging RI Energy to incentivize natural‑gas alternatives (5‑2)
• Rejected resolution to rescind stop‑work order on Revolution Wind Project (3‑3‑1)
• Approved tax vouchers #2025‑0908‑01 to #2025‑0908‑02 (unanimous)

Technical Review Committee

The Portsmouth Technical Review Committee will hold a public concept-plan review for Regal LLC’s proposal to build 75 storage units totaling 225,000 square feet on a commercially zoned parcel at 1526 West Main Road. This is a pre-application step; no formal decision will be made at this meeting.

• Concept plan review for Regal LLC’s 225,000 sq ft storage-unit project at 1526 West Main Road (Tax Assessor’s Plat 51 Lot 34 & 34C, Commercial zone)
• Pre-application plan review — no vote scheduled

The committee reviewed a pre‑application concept for a storage‑unit development at 1526 West Main Road. Members asked about site setbacks, drainage, fire suppression, building materials, signage, and potential landscaping. No formal decisions, approvals, or votes were recorded; the project will move to the Planning Board and Design Review Board in upcoming months.

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will consider payments totaling $695,820.61 and discuss a public hearing on a potential natural gas moratorium. The meeting includes a proclamation for National Service Dog Month and a report on curbside trash issues.

• Payment Voucher #1572: $16,871.04
• Payment Voucher #1062: $532,870.57
• Payment Voucher #1069: $151,079.00
• Public hearing on natural gas moratorium (Aug 27)
• Proclamation for National Service Dog Month

The council approved the Municipal Road and Bridge Program State Funds agreement with the State of Rhode Island. It also approved the meeting minutes, the consent agenda, and monthly finance reports. Several routine motions, including moving to executive session and adjournment, passed unanimously.

• Ratified Municipal Road and Bridge Program State Funds agreement (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)
• Received and placed on file the consent agenda (unanimous)
• Received and placed on file monthly finance reports (unanimous)
• Received and placed on file correspondence items (unanimous)
• Moved to executive session under RIGL 42-46-5(a)(2) (unanimous)
• Sealed the minutes and returned to open session (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will conduct pre-application reviews for two housing projects by Church Community Housing Corporation. The board will also discuss modifications to the Cutler Court Subdivision and review a progress report for the Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights Subdivision.

• Pre-application review for 15 units at 13 Bristol Ferry Road and Sprague Street (North Lot)
• Pre-application review for 25 units at 0 Turnpike Avenue and 0 Sprague Street (South Lot)
• Discussion of minor modification to reduce drainage swale length at Cutler Court Subdivision
• Administrative approval of minor subdivision at Indian Avenue (Map 67 Lot 37)
• Progress report for Elm Street/Portsmouth Heights Subdivision regarding outstanding road and drainage work

The board approved the minutes from the June 12, 2025 Planning Board meeting by a unanimous 7‑0 vote. It also approved a motion to continue the Cutler Court drainage petition to the September 11, 2025 meeting, allowing Mr. Braga to present revised plans and for verification of the HOA. No other actions were decided.

• Approved June 12, 2025 minutes (7‑0)
• Approved motion to continue Cutler Court drainage petition to Sept 11, 2025 (7‑0)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will consider requests for a new disc golf course and a temporary overdose awareness display at Town Hall. The body will also discuss updating alcoholic beverage ordinances to include cannabis-infused drinks and a RI DOT construction agreement.

• Payment vouchers totaling $834,222.80
• Proposed ordinance amendment regarding cannabis-infused beverages
• Request for a disc golf course supported by the Parks and Recreation Committee
• Resolution in support of increased funding for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority
• Construction and Maintenance Agreement from RI DOT

The council approved a resolution urging state officials to increase funding for the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority. It also approved several licensing motions, tabled a disc‑golf proposal, and authorized a temporary public display for International Overdose Awareness Day. Additionally, the council accepted a zoning board resignation and appointed a member to the Juvenile Hearing Board.

• Approved Victualler and Holiday licenses for Cumberland Farms (unanimous)
• Approved new Mobile Food Establishment license for Sprinkles Ice Cream (unanimous)
• Tabled disc‑golf course request to September 8 meeting (unanimous)
• Authorized advertisement for public hearing on cannabis‑infused beverage amendment (unanimous)
• Approved temporary flag display for International Overdose Awareness Day (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting increased funding for RIPTA (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Zoning Board member Charles Donovan (unanimous)
• Appointed Sue Cooper to Juvenile Hearing Board (unanimous)

Technical Review Committee

The Technical Review Committee will conduct pre-application reviews for two residential developments by the Church Community Housing Corporation. The body will also review a proposed addition for a commercial property.

• Concept plan for 15 residential units at 13 Bristol Ferry Rd. & Sprague St. (25% low to moderate-income)
• Concept plan for 25 residential units at 0 Turnpike Ave. and 0 Sprague St. (25% low to moderate-income)
• Plan review for a proposed addition at 1970 East Main Road (Ray’s Auto Garage)

The committee reviewed a pre‑application concept plan for Church Community Housing Corporation’s 13 Bristol Ferry Rd. & Sprague St. site, proposing 15 residential units with 25% low‑ to moderate‑income housing. They also reviewed a second CCHC proposal for 25 units at 0 Turnpike Ave./Sprague St. and a plan review for J & B Realty’s addition at 1970 East Main Road. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded; the proposals will move to the Planning Board and Design Review Board for further consideration.

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss a resolution to support the continued operation of the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center. The body will also review several business license renewals and new applications, and approve various payment vouchers.

• Resolution advocating for the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center at Newport Hospital
• Payment vouchers totaling $995,004.66
• Increased billing rate for Special Counsel Terry Tierney from $100 to $125 per hour
• New peddler licenses for Neuro Brews LLC and Khonnys Korner
• Annual holiday license for Ocean State Controlled Botanicals (Newport Cannabis Company)

The council unanimously adopted a resolution urging Brown Health and Newport Hospital to keep the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center operating. It approved an increased billing rate for special counsel Terry Tierney to $125 per hour (6‑1 vote). The council also accepted a resignation, reappointed a member to a committee, and approved several licensing and tax voucher items.

• Adopted resolution urging continued operation of the Noreen Stonor Drexel Birthing Center (unanimous)
• Approved increased billing rate for special counsel Terry Tierney to $125/hr (6‑1)
• Accepted resignation of Cynthia Andreola from Planning Commission and Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Jonathan Harris to the Pension Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Approved new mobile food establishment licenses for Neuro Brews LLC and Khonnys Korner (unanimous)
• Approved holiday license for Ocean State Controlled Botanicals (unanimous)
• Approved Tax Vouchers #2025-0728-01 to #2025-0728-21 (unanimous)
• Approved all meeting minutes as presented (unanimous)

Pension Advisory Committee Formerly Pension Investment Committee

The Pension Advisory Committee will meet to review minutes from February 2025. The committee will also receive an economic and market review as of June 30, 2025, presented by S. Geadelmann of Principal.

• Economic and Market Review as of 06.30.2025 from Principal - S. Geadelmann
• Approval of 2/25/2025 meeting minutes

The committee approved the July 22, 2025 minutes as presented, with a unanimous vote. A request was noted to run a five‑year performance comparison of the private real‑estate portfolio for the October meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved July 22, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will consider several dimensional variance requests and one special use permit. These items involve residential decks, pools, solar energy, and commercial signage.

• Dimensional variance for a new deck at 99 Cliff Avenue
• Special Use Permit for a small solar energy system at 432 Vanderbilt Land
• Dimensional variance for an above-ground swimming pool at 233 Mail Coach Road
• Dimensional variances for ground mounted and wall signs at 3033 East Main Road
• Dimensional variances for wall signs and a directional sign at 1170 East Main Road

The board unanimously approved a dimensional variance for Christopher Myers to rebuild a deck at 99 Cliff Avenue (5‑0). It also unanimously approved a dimensional variance for Anna Shea to install an above‑ground pool at 233 Mail Coach Road (5‑0). The board unanimously approved a special‑use permit for Amit Anand to install a small solar energy system at 432 Vanderbilt Land, conditional on vegetative buffers around the array (5‑0).

• Approved Christopher Myers deck variance at 99 Cliff Avenue (5‑0)
• Approved Anna Shea pool variance at 233 Mail Coach Road (5‑0)
• Approved Amit Anand solar permit at 432 Vanderbilt Land with vegetative buffer condition (5‑0)
• Application 2 (Richard and Catherine Homan) withdrawn

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to discuss transportation obstacles and opportunities on Aquidneck Island. The body will also review updates regarding Prudence and potential partnerships with other Rhode Island organizations.

• Discussion on transportation obstacles and opportunities on Aquidneck Island
• Update on Prudence
• Discussion on partnering with other RI organizations

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee approved the amended June 18, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. No further actions were taken on the Prudence Island ferry or other proposals. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 6:17 p.m.

• Approved June 18, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council is holding a special session to conduct interviews and select an appointment for the Municipal Court Judge position. The meeting includes the review of candidates K. Hamilton and others.

• Interviews and selection of Municipal Court Judge

The Town Council interviewed six candidates for Municipal Court Judge and voted to appoint Alicia Anthony. The appointment motion, made by Juan Carlos Payero and seconded by Sondra Blank, passed with a 5-2 vote. A motion to adjourn the meeting was then passed unanimously (7-0).

• Appointed Alicia Anthony as Municipal Court Judge (5-2)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously (7-0)

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will conduct a plan review for Newport Beach Club, LLC and Newport Beach Club Two, LLC. The applicants propose modifying a 2012 decision for a resort development on Newport Harbor Drive. The project will be docketed to the August 14, 2025 Planning Board meeting.

• Proposal for 19 duplexes and 2 single-family homes in the Marina Village
• Relocation of the clubhouse to an existing brick building on the waterfront
• Slight reconfiguration of a portion of the original roadway
• Review of coastal aesthetic landscaping for the development

Town Council

The Town Council will consider final approval of the FY26 Town Budget and provisional adjustments based on state aid. The body will also hold public hearings regarding a noise variance and a CDBG application for senior center funding.

• Final approval of proposed FY26 Town Budget
• CDBG application for $1,250,000 to acquire the Senior Center condominium
• Request for $143,500 to purchase two 2025 Ford Explorer utility vehicles
• Request for $20,000 for playground equipment in the Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan
• Public hearing for a noise variance for a fundraiser at 33 Sea Spray Dr on August 9, 2025

The council approved the Town’s $1,250,000 Community Development Block Grant application for the 2023‑2024 program. It granted a noise variance for a fundraiser at 33 Sea Spray Dr, allowing a maximum of 75 decibels (vote 6‑1). The council added $20,000 to the Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan and reappointed members to several committees. It also approved three new mobile food establishment licenses.

• Approved $1,250,000 CDBG application (6-0)
• Approved noise variance for 33 Sea Spray Dr, 75 dB max (6-1)
• Added up to $20,000 to Parks and Recreation Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
• Reappointed Michael Mineau to Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Reappointed Tracy Lepage and Howard Tighe to Pension Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Paul Trombly to Tax Assessment Board of Review (unanimous)
• Approved mobile food licenses for Bun Buds Side Chix, Teddi’s Food Truck, La Costa Lobster & Tacos (unanimous)
• Received consent agenda as presented (unanimous)

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to review the Director of Business Development report and discuss partnering with other Rhode Island organizations.

• General discussion on partnering with other RI organizations

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee approved the May 21, 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. No new business or formal actions were taken. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 6:30 p.m.

• Approved May 21 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review a conceptual plan for a new residential development and consider a default claim against Harkins Development Company. The board will also evaluate a Community Development Block Grant application for a senior center acquisition.

• Conceptual plan review for 24 dwelling units (25% low-to-moderate income) at 97 Turnpike Avenue
• Action on default of Harkins Development Company for incomplete improvements at Elm Street
• Review of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for senior center acquisition
• Administrative merger of lots 172 and 173 at 89 Islington Avenue
• Administrative merger and subdivision of lots 164 and 165 at 0 Common Fence Blvd and 135 Islington Ave

The Planning Board approved the May 8 minutes (6‑0) and moved agenda item #6 to #3 (7‑0). It certified the CDBG application for the senior center as consistent with the Comprehensive Plan (7‑0). The Board granted a continuance for the Cutler Court subdivision modification to the August 14 meeting (7‑0) and approved an extension of the Harkins Development default, requiring a progress report in August and DPW sign‑off by September (7‑0). The meeting was adjourned (7‑0).

• Approved May 8 minutes (6‑0)
• Moved agenda item #6 to item #3 (7‑0)
• Certified CDBG senior‑center application (7‑0)
• Granted continuance for Cutler Court modification to Aug 14 2025 (7‑0)
• Extended Harkins Development default deadline; progress report required Aug 2025, DPW sign‑off by Sep 2025 (7‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (7‑0)

Town Council

The Town Council is conducting a public hearing on the provisionally approved FY 2025-2026 budget. The proposed General Fund expenses total $76,940,969.

• Proposed General Fund expenses of $76,940,969
• Proposed education expenditure of $42,998,627, an increase of $1,235,643
• Proposed Public Safety budget of $17,410,556
• Proposed Local Property Tax revenue of $65,325,125
• Proposed Transfer Station expenses of $920,788

The council presented the provisionally approved FY2025‑2026 budget, which is posted online and at Town Hall. A motion to close the PH was made by Juan Carlos Payero, seconded by Sharlene Blank, and passed unanimously. A motion to adjourn was made by David Gleason, seconded by Juan Carlos Payero, and also passed unanimously.

• Motion to close the PH passed unanimously
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will meet to appoint a Probate Judge and review a request to abate $27,228.62 in delinquent taxes. The body will also hold a public hearing regarding a noise variance for a block party at 933 Anthony Rd.

• Request to abate 2011-2013 delinquent taxes in the amount of $27,228.62
• Selection and appointment of a Probate Judge
• Public hearing for a noise variance for an event at 933 Anthony Rd on July 12, 2025
• Request to reallocate general funds for public safety radio purchase
• New peddler licenses for Angkor Boba Tea House and Dr Doughboys

The council approved two new mobile food establishment licenses and accepted two resignations. It reappointed a conservation commissioner, appointed a parks committee member, and approved a sound‑variance for a community event. The town also reallocated funds for a public‑safety radio purchase, abated $27,228.62 in delinquent taxes, and appointed Richard D’Addario as Probate Judge.

• Approved new mobile food establishment licenses for Angkor Boba Tea House and Dr Doughboys (unanimous)
• Accepted resignations of Conrad Donahue (Board of Canvassers) and Stephen Luce (Melville Park Committee) (unanimous)
• Reappointed Johna Spencer to the Conservation Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed James Kitzmiller to the Parks & Recreation Committee (unanimous)
• Approved sound variance for 933 Anthony Rd with 10 pm ending and 75 db limit (5-1)
• Reallocated general funds for a public‑safety radio purchase (unanimous)
• Approved abatement of delinquent taxes totaling $27,228.62 (unanimous)
• Appointed Richard D’Addario as Probate Judge starting July 1 2025 (5-2)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss the appointment of a Town Prosecutor and regional economic development initiatives. The body will also consider a funding request for a new police vehicle and a sound variance for a community block party.

• Request to spend up to $70,000 for a 2024 Ford Interceptor
• Selection and appointment of Town Prosecutor
• Sound variance request for Common Fence Point Improvement Association block party at 933 Anthony Rd
• New peddler license for Brie and Honey at 180 Cottontail Drive
• Re-appointment of E. Lopes, Jr. to the Planning Board

The Town Council appointed Mr. Zangari as the new Town Prosecutor and approved a $70,000 purchase of a 2024 Ford Interceptor for the police department. It also approved a public hearing for a sound variance, accepted a resignation, reappointed a planning board member, and approved several mobile food licenses. Two motions to hire a new prosecutor or a law firm failed.

• Appointed Mr. Zangari as Town Prosecutor (4-3)
• Approved $70,000 purchase of 2024 Ford Interceptor for Public Safety (7-0)
• Approved public hearing on sound variance for July 12 event (6-0-1)
• Accepted resignation of Cynthia Burke from Parks & Recreation Committee (7-0)
• Reappointed Edward Lopes to Planning Board (7-0)
• Approved new mobile food establishment license for Brie and Honey (7-0)
• Approved renewals of three mobile food licenses (Blount Clam Shack, Championship Melt, BBQymas) (7-0)
• Failed to hire Frank Holbrook as Town Prosecutor (4-3)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will meet on May 21, 2025, with an executive session focused on personnel discussions under state law. The public portion of the meeting will be live-streamed via Zoom, but the executive session will not be accessible. Residents can participate in Q&A via chat or phone dial-in.

Economic Development Committee

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee will convene at 5:30 pm in the Colonel Thomas F. Lee Community Room to approve April meeting minutes and receive reports on the Buy Local Program, Tourist Map Project, Community Development Priorities, Annual Report, and Town Center Investigation. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

The Economic Development Committee approved the April 16, 2025 meeting minutes. No other substantive actions were taken. The next meeting was scheduled for June 18, 2025.

• Approved April 16, 2025 meeting minutes
• Scheduled next meeting for June 18, 2025

Technical Review Committee

The Technical Review Committee will conduct plan reviews for three separate property developments. These include a request for a 24-unit residential project and modifications to a planned unit development.

• Plan review for 24 residential dwelling units at 97 Turnpike Avenue
• Modification of 'Marina Village' at Plat 17 Lot 8 to 19 duplexes and two single family homes
• Request to convert a garage into dry storage commercial space at 1861 East Main Road

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss and potentially approve the FY26 town budget, including the local school appropriation and capital allocation. They will also consider a pension fund payment and fund balance policy, hold three public hearings on noise variances for events, and vote on adopting the Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan.

• Discussion and provisional approval of FY26 Town Budget and local school appropriation
• Pension Fund Payment & Fund Balance Policy, including a proposed ordinance amendment to change fund balance levels to 13-17%
• Public hearings for noise variances at 48 Aquidneck Ave (Aug 2), Safe Harbor New England Boatworks at 1 Lagoon Rd (Aug 8), and 30 North Harbor Dr (July 18)
• Request to adopt the Safe Streets For All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan
• Pavement improvements project on West Main Rd, Sprague St, and East Main Rd

The Town Council voted 4-3 to move $600,000 from the unrestricted fund balance to the pension fund and 5-2 to schedule a public hearing on a fund‑balance ordinance amendment. It also approved the FY 2026 budget, including property tax revenue of $65,047,885, finance revenue of $406,000, and total revenues and expenditures of $76,940,969, each by a 7-0 vote. The Safe Streets For All safety plan was adopted unanimously, and several noise‑variance requests were approved with a 75 dB limit.

• Move $600,000 to pension fund (4-3)
• Advertise public hearing on fund‑balance ordinance amendment (5-2)
• Approve FY26 property tax revenue $65,047,885 (7-0)
• Approve FY26 finance revenue $406,000 (7-0)
• Approve FY26 total revenue $76,940,969 (7-0)
• Approve FY26 total expenditures $76,940,969 (7-0)
• Adopt Safe Streets For All safety plan (7-0)
• Approve noise variance 75 dB for Ian Hutton event (6-1)

Planning Board

The Portsmouth Planning Board will consider action on a default by Harkins Development Company for failing to complete improvements at Portsmouth Heights (Map 63 Lot 15 Elm Street), including asphalt, drainage swales, and silt removal. The board will also discuss a requested continuance to June 12 for a minor modification to the Cutler Court subdivision drainage swales. Additionally, the board will review the state's draft Housing 2030 plan.

• Default action against Harkins Development Co. for incomplete roadway improvements at Portsmouth Heights (Elm Street) — includes final asphalt, drainage swales, silt removal, concrete bounds, as-built plans, and seeding
• Continuance requested to June 12, 2025 for minor modification to reduce roadside drainage swales at Cutler Court subdivision (Map 58 Lots 49A-F)
• Consent agenda: review of Rhode Island's draft Housing 2030 statewide housing plan, public comment open until May 23, 2025
• Discuss and approve modification of future Planning Board meeting dates and times

The Planning Board voted 6‑0 to postpone Agenda Item 3 on modifying future meeting dates and times to an undetermined later date. It granted continuances to the June 12, 2025 meeting for both the Cutler Court Subdivisions minor modification request and the Harkins Development Company default matter, with parties to meet at the Elm Street subdivision. The March 13, 2025 Planning Board minutes were approved as written. The meeting was adjourned at 7:11 p.m.

• Postponed Agenda Item 3 (future meeting date & time) – vote 6‑0
• Granted continuance for Cutler Court Subdivisions modification to June 12, 2025 – vote 6‑0
• Approved March 13, 2025 Planning Board minutes – vote 6‑0
• Continued Harkins Development default matter to June 12, 2025 with Elm St site meeting – vote 6‑0
• Adjourned meeting at 7:11 p.m. – vote 6‑0

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will conduct plan reviews for two projects that received preliminary approval from the Planning Board. The first is a detached garage addition at 31 Russo Road that requires variances for lot coverage and setbacks. The second is Borden Farm Estates, a major land development for 20 new residential units (5 affordable) on East Main Road.

• Borden Farm Estates – 20 residential units (5 affordable) at 2951 & 2967 East Main Road, zoned Commercial with Multi-Family Incentive District Overlay
• Steel Giraffe – 36x50 detached garage addition at 31 Russo Road that does not meet allowed lot coverage or south/west setbacks
• Both projects received preliminary plan approval from the Planning Board on March 13, 2025

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will hold a discussion and potential action on the proposed FY26 Town Administrator's Budget, specifically focusing on expenditures. The proposed budget is available on the town's website. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible action on FY26 Town Administrator's Budget – Expenditures

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss the proposed FY26 Town Administrator's Budget, specifically expenditures. The budget is available on the town's website. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Discussion and possible action on FY26 Town Administrator's Budget expenditures

The Town Council provisionally approved the FY 2026 budgets for the Council ($18,198), Town Administrator ($376,161) and numerous departments, most with unanimous votes. A motion to withhold RI League of Cities dues until a presentation was approved 5‑2. The council also amended a prior motion, moving $600,000 from the Fund Balance to the Pension Fund and eliminating $257,163 of pension liability, passing 4‑3.

• Approved Town Council budget $18,198 (6-1)
• Approved Town Administrator budget $376,161 (7-0)
• Approved IT budget $414,404 after $10,000 transfer from Planning (7-0)
• Approved Capital Improvement Plan budget $655,860 (7-0)
• Approved Civic Support budget $908,482 (6-1)
• Approved withholding RI League of Cities dues pending presentation (5-2)
• Amended fund balance: moved $600,000 to Pension Fund and removed $257,163 liability (4-3)
• Approved OPEB, Open Space Reserve, Capital Reserve, and Contingency budgets totaling $115,000 (7-0)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss the proposed FY26 budgets for the town and school department, hear a presentation on Rhode Island's shift in state and local taxes and K-12 funding based on a RIPEC report, and consider a proposal to cap the snow removal reserve fund balance at $200,000, with any audited excess applied to the road paving program. No final votes are scheduled on the agenda; the meeting is largely a discussion session.

• School department presentation on FY26 budget
• Review of RIPEC report on state and local tax shift and K-12 funding
• Proposal to cap Snow Removal Reserve Fund at $200,000 with excess directed to road paving

The council unanimously passed provisional approvals for a series of FY 2026 budgets, including the school appropriation of $ 39 ,40 7, 902, the police budget of $8,512,203, and several department budgets. Members also voted 6‑1 to cap the Snow Removal Reserve Fund at $250,000. All motions were adopted and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved School Town Appropriation $ 39 ,40 7, 902 (7‑0)
• Approved Police budget $8,512,203 (7‑0)
• Approved Animal Control budget $13 5 ,6 8 8 (7‑0)
• Approved Harbor Master budget $13 5 ,615 (7‑0)
• Approved Fire budget $8,210,775 (7‑0)
• Approved Emergency Management budget $6 9 ,250 (7‑0)
• Approved DPW Road Improvement budget $1,170,000 (7‑0)
• Approved Snow Removal Fund cap $250,000 (6‑1)

Town Council

The Town Council will hear the Town Administrator's proposed budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025, along with opening statements and revenue overview. Other discussions include a dog park update, a letter regarding non-partisan data for local elections, and a policy reminder on backup materials. The consent agenda covers bills and several license renewals and new applications for mobile food establishments and an entertainment license. The council will also receive reports on West Main and Sprague Street paving, a CDBG Affordable Housing Award for Ade Bethune House, and other town updates.

• Town Administrator's proposed FY 2025-2026 budget presentation and review
• Dog Park update from J. Regan, Chair
• Letter regarding non-partisan data for local elections from D. Gleason & T. Pietz
• West Main and Sprague Street paving update
• CDBG Affordable Housing Award for Ade Bethune House

The council approved the consent agenda and several licensing applications, then provisionally approved the town budget of $77,199,531. All motions passed unanimously with a 7‑0 vote. No votes were taken on the dog park update or other new‑business items.

• Consent agenda approved (7-0)
• Peddler License renewal for Pit Stop Street Food approved (7-0)
• New peddler license for Newport Sushi Co. approved (7-0)
• New peddler license for Bottle Rocket Food Truck approved (7-0)
• Annual peddler license for Newport Fine Linens LLC approved (7-0)
• Entertainment license for Portsmouth Youth Soccer Association approved (7-0)
• Monthly Finance Report received and placed on file (7-0)
• Town Budget provisionally approved $77,199,531 (7-0)

Pension Advisory Committee Formerly Pension Investment Committee

The Pension Advisory Committee will hear an economic and market review as of March 31, 2025, from Principal. They will discuss a proposal to allocate 50% of future budget surplus — 40% to pension debt and 10% to OPEB — and receive an update on the actuarial RFP award presented to the Council on March 24th. The committee will also consider approving minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting.

• Economic and Market Review as of 03.31.2025 from Principal presented by S. Geadelmann
• Update on proposal to allocate 50% of future budget surplus: 40% to pension debt, 10% to OPEB
• Update on Actuarial RFP award presented to Council on March 24th
• Approval of minutes from the February 25, 2025 meeting
• Future meetings scheduled for July 22 and October 21, 2025

The Pension Investment Committee did not reach a quorum, so no votes were taken. All agenda items were presented for information only. The meeting was adjourned at 5:35 PM.

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will meet to discuss and decide on the selection and appointment of the Town Solicitor. This process includes an executive session for personnel discussions.

• Selection/Appointment of Town Solicitor

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council is meeting in executive session to discuss personnel matters, specifically job performance, character, or health of individuals, as permitted by state law. No public business is scheduled; the open session portion of the agenda consists solely of adjournment.

• Executive session under RIGL 42-46-5(a)(1) for personnel discussions

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board will consider two variance requests. Marvin Catalan seeks a 7.3-foot front yard variance to build a covered front porch at 11 Hillcrest Road. Raymond Perry requests a second one-year extension to a dimensional variance granted in April 2024 for a single-family home at 0 Common Fence Boulevard. The board will also approve minutes from January and March 2025 meetings.

• Marvin Catalan's dimensional variance request for a covered front porch at 11 Hillcrest Road (7.3-foot front yard variance)
• Raymond Perry's second request for a one-year extension to build a single-family home at 0 Common Fence Boulevard (Map 4 Lot 164)
• Approval of draft minutes from January 16, 2025 meeting
• Approval of draft minutes from March 20, 2025 meeting

The Zoning Board approved the draft minutes from the January 16 and March 20 meetings unanimously. It granted a one‑year extension of a previously approved dimensional variance for the property at 0 Common Fence Boulevard. The board also approved the request for a covered front porch at 11 Hillcrest Road, recording the decision as a one‑year extension. The meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m.

• Approved Jan 16, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Approved Mar 20, 2025 minutes (4‑0)
• Approved 1‑year extension of dimensional variance for 0 Common Fence Blvd (4‑0)
• Approved dimensional variance (recorded as 1‑year extension) for covered front porch at 11 Hillcrest Rd (4‑0)

Economic Development Committee

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee will discuss updates on the Buy Local Program, a tiered tax proposal, the Town Center investigation, and a tourist map project. The committee will also hold open discussion on new ideas from the Comprehensive Community Plan and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Buy Local Program update
• Tiered tax update by Joe Forgione
• Town Center investigation update
• Tourist map project (20 min discussion)
• Open discussion on new ideas for program of work from CCP

The committee unanimously approved the March 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved the formation of a subcommittee, consisting of Pete Lankarge and Emil Cipolla, to explore ideas for a tourist map project. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved March 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Formed subcommittee (Pete Lankarge, Emil Cipolla) to explore Tourist Map Project (approved)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold an executive session on personnel and litigation, then convene in open session to discuss FY26 budget, a proposed charter amendment for non-partisan elections, and several licensing actions. They will also consider bids for Portsmouth High School roof repairs, transfer station sticker rules, and a request to build two sports fields at the 3S property on Sandy Point Ave.

• Resolution to submit amendment to Home Rule Charter for non-partisan Town Council and School Committee elections
• Request to build two sports fields at the 3S property on Sandy Point Ave
• Portsmouth High School roof bid award
• Three requests to advertise public hearings for sound variances for amplified music events on Aug 2, Aug 8, and Jul 18, 2025
• Approval of transfer station sticker applications and rules for Portsmouth and Prudence Island

The Town Council adopted a resolution to submit charter amendments that would make Town Council and School Committee elections non‑partisan, passing 4‑3. The council also approved several mobile food license renewals and new licenses, an entertainment license, and a temporary seasonal service area expansion, all unanimously. Additional unanimous actions included appointing members to various committees and approving advertising for upcoming sound‑variance public hearings.

• Approved charter amendment resolution for non‑partisan elections (4-3)
• Approved renewal of four mobile food establishment licenses (unanimous)
• Approved three new mobile food establishment licenses (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license for NewportFilm screening (unanimous)
• Approved temporary seasonal expansion for Localz, Inc. (unanimous)
• Appointed Melissa Desjardins to Design Review Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Pete Lankarge to Economic Development Committee (unanimous)
• Approved advertising for public hearing on sound variance at 48 Aquidneck Ave (unanimous)

Planning Board

The regularly scheduled April 10, 2025 Portsmouth Planning Board meeting has been cancelled. No items will be discussed or decided at this meeting.

• Meeting cancelled; no business conducted

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will hold plan reviews for two projects. Borden Farm Estates LLC proposes 20 residential units (5 affordable) at 2951 and 2967 East Main Road. Steel Giraffe LLC proposes a 36'x50' detached garage addition at 31 Russo Road that would exceed allowed lot coverage and setbacks. Both projects received preliminary plan approval from the Planning Board on March 13, 2025.

• Plan review for Borden Farm Estates – 20 new residential units (5 affordable) on 2.84 acres at 2951/2967 East Main Road, zoned Commercial with Multi-Family Incentive District Overlay
• Plan review for Steel Giraffe – 36'x50' detached garage addition at 31 Russo Road that does not meet allowed lot coverage or south/west side setbacks
• Both applications qualified as land developments: Borden Farm Estates as major, Steel Giraffe as minor with unified development review
• Preliminary plan approval granted by the Planning Board on March 13, 2025 for both projects

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss splitting the residential tax rate into owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied tiers. The body will also hold public hearings on zoning amendments and a noise variance for Ragged Island Brewing Co.

• Proposal to break residential tax rate into owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied tiers
• Public hearing for noise variance for live music at Ragged Island Brewing Co, 54 Bristol Ferry Road
• Public hearing for amendments to Chapter 405 Zoning regarding statutory changes
• Proposed amendment to Home Rule Charter for non-partisan Town Council and School Committee elections
• Request for approval of Paul Rodrigues as Director of Public Works

The Town Council approved an executive session and the consent agenda unanimously. Several entertainment and mobile food licenses were approved, most unanimously and two with a 6‑0‑1 vote. The Council accepted two resignations and made multiple committee appointments. A $10,000 budget reallocation from the Prudence Island School Foundation Civic Support to the Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice was approved unanimously.

• Executive session motion passed unanimously
• Consent agenda approved unanimously
• Ragged Island Brewing Co entertainment license approved unanimously
• St. Barnabas Church entertainment license approved 6‑0‑1 (Ms. McDowell recused)
• Resignations of Gail Rutledge‑Cotta and Thomas Gorski accepted unanimously
• Philip Genereux appointed to Economic Development Committee unanimously
• Reallocated $10,000 from Civic Support to Visiting Nurse Home & Hospice unanimously
• Monthly finance report received and placed on file unanimously

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will consider two requests for dimensional variances. These requests involve the construction of a deck and a garage with an accessory dwelling unit.

• Request for a 3.2-foot rear yard dimensional variance for a deck off a garage at 513 Bristol Ferry Road
• Request for a 4.9 side yard dimensional variance for a garage with an accessory dwelling unit at 2635 East Main Road

The Board approved a 3.2‑foot rear‑yard variance for a deck at 513 Bristol Ferry Road after the assistant town planner reported no written objections. The Board denied a 4.9‑foot side‑yard variance for a garage with an accessory dwelling unit at 2635 East Main Road, voting 4‑1 against the petition. The meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m.

• Approved 3.2‑ft rear yard variance for deck at 513 Bristol Ferry Rd (administrative approval)
• Denied 4.9‑ft side yard variance for garage with ADU at 2635 East Main Rd (vote 4‑1)
• Motion to adjourn adopted

Economic Development Committee

The Economic Development Committee will meet to review the Buy Local Program and conduct a discussion on the Town Center investigation with guest Ross Cann. The committee will also consider a proposal for Portsmouth Historical Sites and new program ideas from CCP.

• Town Center Investigation discussion with guest Ross Cann
• Buy Local Program update
• Proposal for Portsmouth Historical Sites
• Discussion on program of work from CCP

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee heard a guest presentation from architect Ross Cann on the original Portsmouth Town Center initiative and future possibilities. Members discussed potential locations for one or more town centers, including the Burma Rd. area, and agreed to have Richard Hood work with Emil Cipolla on a detailed presentation about marketing historical sites. No formal decisions were made on these topics.

• Approved February 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Portsmouth Planning Board will hold public hearings on two development proposals: a 20-unit residential project at 2951 & 2967 East Main Road (Borden Farm Estates) with 5 affordable units, and a commercial garage addition at 31 Russo Road (Steel Giraffe LLC) requiring multiple variances. The board will also discuss amendments to Chapter 236 (Land Development and Subdivision Regulations) to reorganize attachments and checklists, and provide an advisory opinion to the Town Council on Chapter 405 zoning text amendments to comply with 2023 state law changes. Additionally, they will consider modifying future meeting dates and times.

• Public hearing for Borden Farm Estates – 20 residential units, 5 affordable, on 2.84 acres at 2951 & 2967 East Main Road (zoned Commercial with Multi-Family Incentive District Overlay).
• Public hearing for Steel Giraffe LLC – 36'x50' detached garage addition at 31 Russo Road; variances needed for side setback (13’‑11”), rear setback (5’‑10”), and lot coverage (8.8% over 25% limit).
• Hearing on Chapter 236 amendments – reorganizing attachments 1‑27, eliminating six, and adding three new checklists (Minor, Major, and Development Plan Review).
• Advisory opinion on Chapter 405 zoning text amendments – to align with state bills covering land use court, low/moderate income housing, SHAB, TOD pilot, comprehensive plan, notice, and definitions.
• Discussion and possible approval of changing future Planning Board meeting dates and times.

The Portsmouth Planning Board granted preliminary approval for Borden Farm Estates, a 20-unit residential development with 5 affordable units, subject to conditions including fencing, no short-term rentals, and Design Review Board approval. The board also approved amendments to the Land Development regulations and zoning ordinance text amendments, and granted variances for a garage addition at 31 Russo Road.

• Approved preliminary plan for Borden Farm Estates, 20 units with 5 LMI units (6-0)
• Approved Chapter 236 Land Development regulations amendments, reorganizing attachments and adding new checklists (6-0)
• Gave favorable advisory opinion on Chapter 405 zoning text amendments to comply with 2023 state laws (6-0)
• Granted variances for 36'x50' garage at 31 Russo Road with conditions (6-0)
• Approved minor land development for garage at 31 Russo Road, subject to DRB (6-0)
• Approved minutes of February 13, 2025 with corrections (6-0)
• Postponed discussion on future meeting date/time (6-0)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss allocating 50% of future surpluses to the pension fund and OPEB. The body is also prioritizing transportation projects for the 2026-2035 State Transportation Improvement Program.

• Proposal to allocate 40% of future surpluses to Pension Fund and 10% to OPEB
• Discussion of RIDOT walkway installation from Morris Ave to Anthony Rd
• Review of FY25 to FY26 Civic Support Requests
• Renewal of peddler license for Farm to Sandwich LLC
• Appointments for Parks & Recreation and Solid Waste/Recycling Study committees

The Town Council approved a total of $766,967 in civic support requests, including $587,226 for the Portsmouth Free Public Library and $84,000 for the Portsmouth Multi-Purpose Senior Center. The overall motion passed 6-1, with Councilor McDowell dissenting. The council also approved a policy to allocate 50% of future surpluses to pension and OPEB funds, and accepted several resignations and appointments.

• Approved $766,967 in civic support requests (6-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Approved $587,226 for Portsmouth Free Public Library (unanimous)
• Approved $84,000 for Portsmouth Multi-Purpose Senior Center (6-0-1, Patton recused)
• Approved $60,571 for Prudence Island School Foundation (6-1, McDowell dissenting)
• Approved policy to allocate 50% of future surpluses to pension (40%) and OPEB (10%) (unanimous)
• Removed Q&A from Zoom public comment (unanimous)
• Advertised public hearing for Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan on March 24 (6-1, Gleason dissenting)
• Approved prioritized list of transportation projects for STIP (unanimous)

Portsmouth Housing Authority

The Portsmouth Housing Authority board will meet with HUD Field Director Peter Asen to discuss Section 8 vouchers, CDBG, and the future of federal housing funding. The board will also review and consider supporting Senate Bill S-0037, which would allow a municipal conveyance tax surcharge on property sales over $900,000 to fund affordable housing. Additionally, the board will continue dialogue on future priorities following the resolution of HUD issues and the transfer of Quaker Manor, and receive updates on a $500K CDBG application.

• Discussion with HUD Field Director Peter Asen on Section 8, CDBG, and federal funding outlook
• Review of Senate Bill S-0037: additional conveyance tax on sales over $900,000 for affordable housing
• Update on Town Council-approved $500K CDBG application from Sabattus Housing and PHA
• Appointment of Dr. Mark Ryan to the board and new Town Council liaisons
• Old business: board dialogue on future priorities after Quaker Manor transfer and HUD resolution

The Board voted unanimously to direct the Chair to write a letter of support for Senate Bill S-0037, which would allow municipalities to impose an additional conveyance tax on property sales over $900,000, with proceeds dedicated to affordable housing. The Board also approved the January 16, 2024 meeting minutes (3-0, with Ryan abstaining) and heard a presentation from HUD Field Office Director Peter Asen on federal housing programs.

• Approved a motion to direct the Chair to write a letter of support for Senate Bill S-0037 and its House companion, passed unanimously.
• Approved the minutes of the January 16, 2024 meeting, passed 3-0 with Ryan abstaining.
• Moved immediately to new business discussions with HUD Field Office Director Peter Asen, passed 4-0.
• Adjourned the meeting at 2:40 pm, passed 4-0.

Pension Advisory Committee Formerly Pension Investment Committee

The Portsmouth Pension Advisory Committee will meet to review a disability pension case in executive session and discuss funding options for an increased annual required contribution (ARC) payment. The committee will also review minutes from the January 21, 2025 meeting and tabled items dependent on the disability review.

• Executive session to discuss disability pension under RIGL §42-46-5(a)(2)
• Discussion on moving from percent-of-pay to level-dollar amortization for ARC payment
• Potential funding ideas: phased ARC increase, surplus allocation, or DPW insurance policy

The Pension Investment Committee unanimously recommended closing the pension funding gap with $300,000, $300,000, and $400,000 payments over three years, and using 50% of future budget surplus (40% to pension debt, 10% to OPEB debt). The committee also held an executive session on a disability pension, taking one affirmative vote, and discussed but took no vote on purchasing an outside insurance policy for DPW.

• Approved recommendation to Council for $300K/$300K/$400K ARC gap payments over 3 years (unanimous)
• Approved recommendation to Council to use 50% of future surplus: 40% to pension debt, 10% to OPEB debt (unanimous)
• Held executive session on disability pension; one affirmative vote taken
• Approved 01/21/2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will meet on February 24, 2025, to discuss and vote on several items, including a request to advertise a public hearing for a sound variance allowing live amplified music at Ragged Island Brewing Co. The council will also review resolutions supporting the restoration of general revenue sharing and RI League of Cities and Towns priorities, as well as civic support requests. Additionally, the council will consider forming a Portsmouth 250th Committee and advertising a public hearing for Tier II zoning and land use updates.

• Request to advertise public hearing for sound variance at Ragged Island Brewing Co, 54 Bristol Ferry Rd
• Request to form Portsmouth 250th Committee or subcommittee
• Request to approve resolution for restoration of general revenue sharing
• Request to approve resolution supporting RI League of Cities and Towns 2025 priorities
• Request to advertise public hearing for Tier II zoning and land use updates

The Town Council voted 4-3 to place a question on the next election ballot to change to non-partisan elections. The council also approved several licenses, reappointments, and resolutions, including a request to restore state revenue sharing. A public hearing was scheduled for a sound variance for Ragged Island Brewing Co. and for Tier II zoning updates.

• Placed non-partisan election question on next ballot (4-3)
• Approved new peddler licenses for Meat Sweats RI LLC and Whats Up Cupcake LLC (unanimous)
• Approved new victualler license for Flo's Drive In (unanimous)
• Reappointed Nancy Zitka to Board of Canvassers, Luke Harding to Planning Board, John Fitzgerald to Tree Commission and Tree Warden (unanimous)
• Tabled Parks & Recreation Committee appointment to March 10 (5-2)
• Appointed Cynthia Burke to Solid Waste/Recycling Study Committee (unanimous)
• Approved resolution requesting restoration of General Revenue Sharing (unanimous)
• Approved civic support funding with amendments, bottom line $766,967 (6-1)

Economic Development Committee

The committee will review updates on the Buy Local Program, tax tier recommendations, and investigations into Prudence and the Town Center. The meeting also includes a discussion on business mentors for Portsmouth High School.

• Tax Tiers Recommendation
• Prudence Investigation update
• Town Center Investigation discussion
• Buy Local Program update
• Portsmouth High School Business Mentors

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee met and approved the January 15, 2025 minutes. They discussed the Buy Local program, a pending municipal tax rates analysis, and a Prudence Island study concluding no action is needed. The Town Center sub-committee reviewed a prior plan and discussed why it failed, with next steps including stakeholder meetings.

• Approved January 15, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Tabled PHS Business Mentors report due to absence
• Discussed Town Center plan, no formal action
• Concluded Prudence Island initiative requires no further action

Planning Board

The Portsmouth Planning Board will consider a two-year extension of master plan approval for the Weaver Cove major planned marina village development, originally approved in 2023. The Board will also conduct a pre-application plan review for a 20-unit comprehensive permit project at 2951 and 2976 East Main Road, with 25% of units designated as low- to moderate-income.

• Two-year extension request for Weaver Cove master plan (Assessor's Plat 43 Lots 3, 4, 7 and Plat 50 Lots 6, 7)
• Pre-application plan review for Borden Farm Estates LLC: 20 residential units, 25% low- to moderate-income, at 2951 and 2976 East Main Road (C-1 zoning)

The Portsmouth Planning Board approved a two-year extension for the Weaver Cove marina village master plan, moving the deadline to May 5, 2027, due to state-level delays and ongoing negotiations. The board also held a pre-application plan review for a 20-unit residential project at Borden Farm Estates, but took no vote on it. Minutes from the January 9, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously.

• Approved two-year extension of Weaver Cove master plan to May 5, 2027 (6-0-1, Lopes recused)
• Approved minutes of January 9, 2025 meeting (6-0)
• Held pre-application plan review for Borden Farm Estates, no vote taken

Town Council

The Portsmouth Town Council will discuss the FY24 financial audit and a proposal to establish an Interlocal Cooperation Commission with the Town of Bristol. The body will also review the Portsmouth Housing Authority's annual report and address recreational facility access following a delay in the Carr Point MOU.

• Presentation of FY24 Audit by Hague, Sahady & Co.
• Proposal for an Interlocal Cooperation Commission with the Town of Bristol
• Review of the Portsmouth Housing Authority 2024 Annual Report
• Discussion on loss of Senior Center Ball Field and Carr Point MOU delay
• Request to adopt the Municipal Immigration Protection Ordinance from ACLU of RI

The Portsmouth Town Council approved a new peddler license for Artisan Bites LLC, reappointed members to the Harbor Commission and Melville Park Committee, and appointed a new Planning Board member. The council also approved sending a letter to Bristol to establish an Interlocal Cooperation Commission and approved a motion requiring council approval for changes to the curbside waste contract. Several items were discussed without votes, including the Portsmouth Housing Authority annual report and the loss of the Senior Center ball field.

• Approved new peddler license for Artisan Bites LLC (unanimous)
• Reappointed David Garceau and Thomas Grieb to Harbor Commission (unanimous)
• Reappointed Stephen Dunn to Melville Park Committee (unanimous)
• Appointed Donald Clukies to Planning Board (unanimous)
• Approved sending letter to Bristol requesting Interlocal Cooperation Commission (unanimous)
• Approved motion requiring council approval of all Curbside RFP changes (unanimous)

Technical Review Committee

The Technical Review Committee is conducting plan reviews for three development projects. The committee will provide feedback on a multi-unit housing project, a residential subdivision, and a commercial garage expansion.

• Pre-application review for 20 new units at 2951 & 2976 East Main Road, with 25% designated as low to moderate-income units
• Review of a proposed 2-lot minor subdivision on the east side of Anthony Road requiring dimensional variances
• Conceptual review for a 36'x50' garage expansion at 31 Russo Road requiring dimensional variances

Town Council

This special session begins with an executive session on potential litigation over a curbside collection contract. In open session, the council will discuss and may vote on a request to repeal Ordinance #2024-11-12, which established curbside collection rules, and a related request to retract the contract award and cancel the RFP. The council will also receive the Portsmouth Housing Authority's 2024 annual report.

• Executive session under RIGL §42-46-5(a)(2) regarding potential litigation over curbside collection contract
• Request to repeal Ordinance #2024-11-12 (Chapter 326 Solid Waste, Article VII Curbside Collection)
• Request to retract curbside collection award and cancel RFP/solicitation if ordinance is repealed
• Portsmouth Housing Authority Annual Report for 2024

The Town Council held a special session and first went into executive session to discuss potential litigation regarding the curbside collection contract, with no votes taken. In open session, a motion to repeal Ordinance #2024-11-12, which established curbside collection and transport of residential refuse, failed in a 3-3-1 vote, with Councilmember McDowell abstaining. A subsequent motion to table the request to retract the curbside collection award and cancel the RFP was passed unanimously. The council also received and filed the Portsmouth Housing Authority Annual Report for 2024.

• Motion to repeal Ordinance #2024-11-12 failed (3-3-1)
• Motion to table retraction of curbside collection award and RFP cancellation passed unanimously
• Motion to receive and file Portsmouth Housing Authority Annual Report passed unanimously
• Motion to enter executive session for potential litigation passed unanimously
• Motion to seal executive session minutes and return to open session passed unanimously
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Town Council

The Council will hold a public hearing on a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant application to replace or upgrade the heating system at Quaker Manor IV, a 40-unit elderly housing complex at 2368 East Main Road. It will also consider repealing the November 2024 solid waste curbside collection ordinance, approving a police contract agreement, and discussing a special election on non-partisan town council and school committee elections. Other items include a Vision Zero traffic safety policy, a wage reopen for the PMEA union contract, and a request to amend senior citizen property tax exemptions.

• Public hearing for $500,000 CDBG grant to fund heating system at Quaker Manor IV (2368 East Main Road)
• Request to reconsider and repeal Ordinance 2024-11-12 on curbside collection of refuse and recyclables
• Request to approve a new police contract agreement
• Request to hold a special election for non-partisan town council and school committee elections
• Request to adopt a Vision Zero resolution for traffic safety

The Town Council adopted a Vision Zero policy, committing to zero traffic deaths and serious injuries by 2034. The council also approved a $500,000 CDBG application for heating system upgrades at Quaker Manor IV, reaffirmed a prior CDBG resolution, and approved union contracts. Several items were tabled, including a proposal for a special election on non-partisan elections.

• Adopted Vision Zero policy resolution (7-0)
• Approved CDBG application for $500,000 for Quaker Manor IV heating system
• Reaffirmed Resolution 2024-12-09 for PY2022 CDBG program (5-2)
• Approved PMEA Union Contract Wage Reopener Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Police Contract Agreement (unanimous)
• Tabled repeal of Solid Waste ordinance to Feb 3, 2025 (6-1)
• Tabled special election on non-partisan elections (7-0)
• Approved amended senior citizen tax exemption resolution (unanimous)

Pension Advisory Committee Formerly Pension Investment Committee

The Pension Advisory Committee will discuss recommendations to increase the Annual Required Contribution (ARC) payment while factoring in disability pension costs, and consider moving from percent-of-pay to level-dollar amortization, which would raise the ARC. Potential funding ideas include eliminating COLAs for a few years, phasing in the increase over three years, or using surplus funds. The committee will also review an economic and market update from Principal as of December 31, 2024.

• Discuss recommendations to increase ARC payment considering disability pension impact
• Discuss moving from percent-of-pay to level-dollar amortization and potential funding sources: eliminating COLAs, phasing in increase, using surplus
• Economic and Market Review as of 12.31.2024 from Principal

The Pension Investment Committee met on January 21, 2025, and approved the minutes from August 27, 2024. They heard a performance update from Principal Global Advisors but took no vote. The main discussion on ARC payments, including disability costs, was tabled to a late February meeting, where an independent attorney's brief will be presented. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved August 27, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled ARC payment discussion to late February meeting

Economic Development Committee

The committee will elect its officers for 2025 and review reports from the Director of Business Development. Members will discuss ongoing initiatives and new research regarding Prudence Island.

• Election of officers for 2025
• Buy Local Program discussion
• Broadband and Tax Analysis updates
• Prudence Island research presentation
• Portsmouth Town Center open discussion

The Portsmouth Economic Development Committee elected Joseph Forgione as Chair, Steve Johnson as Vice Chair, and Michael Mineau as Secretary. The committee also formed a Town Center Subcommittee and discussed a potential public/private partnership for the Sandy Point Stables property.

• Joseph Forgione elected Chair (9-0)
• Steve Johnson elected Vice Chair (5-4, 1 abstention)
• Michael Mineau elected Secretary (5-2, 2 abstentions)
• Approved November 20, 2024 minutes (9-0)
• Formed Town Center Subcommittee with Steve Johnson (Chair), Heather Williams, Cynthia Andreola

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will consider two dimensional variance applications for residential additions. One seeks a 10.5-foot rear yard variance and special use permit for a 208 sq ft addition on Prudence Island; the other requests a 22-foot front yard variance for a 220 sq ft addition on Tallman Avenue. The board will also approve minutes from three prior meetings.

• Dimensional variance and special use permit for a 208 sq ft addition at 018 Madison Avenue (Prudence Island) – requires 10.5-foot rear yard variance
• Dimensional variance for a 220 sq ft addition at 87 Tallman Avenue – requires 22-foot front yard variance
• Approval of draft minutes from September 19, October 17, and November 21, 2024 meetings

The Portsmouth Zoning Board of Review approved two dimensional variances and one special use permit. The first approved a 10.5-foot rear yard variance and special use permit for a 208 sq ft addition at 18 Madison Avenue (Prudence Island) to accommodate a child with mobility needs. The second approved a 22-foot front yard variance for a 220 sq ft porch addition at 87 Tallman Avenue. Both votes were 4-0.

• Approved dimensional variance and special use permit for 208 sq ft addition at 18 Madison Avenue (4-0)
• Approved 22-foot front yard variance for 220 sq ft porch at 87 Tallman Avenue (4-0)
• Approved minutes of September 19, October 17, and November 21, 2024, with a grammatical correction (4-0)

Portsmouth Housing Authority

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the status of Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates I-IV. The meeting includes a question and answer period for residents.

• Informational status meeting on Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates I-IV
• Approval of January 8, 2025 minutes

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board of Commissioners held an informational status meeting with residents about Quaker Manor and Quaker Estates I-IV. Board members and Michael Packard of Sabattus Housing and Phoenix Property Management discussed efforts over the past four years to resolve HUD issues, operations, and financial challenges. No formal decisions were made on these matters; the only votes were to approve the January 8 minutes and to adjourn.

• Approved minutes from January 8, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:50pm (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing on repealing the curbside collection ordinance (Article VII of Chapter 326) enacted Nov. 12, 2024, and may retract the curbside collection award and cancel the RFP. They will also discuss and prioritize 2025 legislative priorities, approve FY 2026 curbside and transfer station sticker fees, and fill several committee vacancies.

• PUBLIC HEARING: Repeal of Chapter 326, Article VII (curbside collection) and possible retraction of award and RFP cancellation
• Request to approve FY 2026 curbside and transfer station sticker fees
• Discussion and prioritization of 2025 legislative priorities
• Appointments to Conservation Commission, Economic Development Committee, Harbor Commission, and reappointments to Bristol Ferry Town Common, Dog Park, and Prudence Island Planning Commission
• Resignations accepted from Conservation Commission, Harbor Commission, and Parks and Recreation Committee

The Town Council voted 3-4 against repealing Article VII of the solid waste ordinance, which established curbside collection, so the program remains in effect. The council also approved the FY 2026 Transfer Station sticker fee of $290 with pay-as-you-throw bags (4-2-1) and the curbside sticker fee with 95-gallon carts unanimously. A request to retract the curbside collection award and cancel the RFP was not acted on, as it was contingent on the ordinance's repeal. The council also tabled a request for quotation for municipal legal services until the January 27 meeting.

• Repeal of Article VII (curbside collection) failed 3-4
• Approved FY 2026 Transfer Station sticker fee $290 with pay-as-you-throw bags (4-2-1)
• Approved FY 2026 curbside sticker fee with 95-gallon carts (unanimous)
• Tabled Request for Quotation for Municipal Legal Services until Jan 27
• Approved new peddler license for McGrath Provisions LLC d/b/a A&K's Food Truck (unanimous)
• Approved entertainment license for Beast of the East Rugby Tournament (unanimous)
• Approved appointments: Elizabeth Pedro to Conservation Commission (6-0-1), Cynthia Andreola to Economic Development Committee, Timothy Logan to Harbor Commission (unanimous)
• Approved legislative priorities to forward to legislators (6-0-1)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing for the Malkin Estates minor land development, proposing 8 condominium units (4 duplexes) at 0 Bristol Ferry Road, seeking special use permits and dimensional variances for reduced building separation and setbacks. The board will also re-review the Town's Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) application for consistency with the comprehensive plan, after a public advertising flaw required the process to be redone. Approval of November 20, 2024 meeting minutes is also on the agenda.

• Public hearing for Malkin Estates: 8-unit condominium (4 duplexes) on 0 Bristol Ferry Road, seeking relief from 100-foot building separation to 37.2, 58.0, and 62.3 feet, and from 55-foot setback from interior way to 5.9, 29, 31, and 32.8 feet
• Redo of CDBG consistency review for affordable housing project (Quaker Manor Estates) due to advertising flaw; recommendation to go to Town Council
• Items continued from November 20, 2024 meeting

The Portsmouth Planning Board approved the Malkin Estates preliminary plan for an eight-unit condominium development at 0 Bristol Ferry Road, including the required dimensional variances and special use permit. The board also voted to forward a favorable recommendation to the Town Council for the town's Community Development Block Grant application for heating upgrades at elderly housing units.

• Approved minutes of November 20, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved favorable recommendation to Town Council for CDBG application (5-0)
• Approved dimensional variances for building separation and setbacks (5-0)
• Granted special use permit for minor land development (5-0)
• Approved preliminary plan for Malkin Estates with conditions (5-0)

Portsmouth Housing Authority

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board will discuss re-advertising and repeating Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) hearings for a $500,000 grant to upgrade heating systems at Quaker Manor & Estates, after concerns over public notice clarity. They will consider joining Sabattus Housing as co-applicants for the grant. The board will also review the draft 2024 annual report and discuss future priorities following the transfer of Quaker Manor ownership.

• Discussion on re-advertising CDBG hearings for $500,000 heating system upgrade at Quaker Manor & Estates
• Consideration of PHA joining Sabattus Housing as co-applicants/sub-recipients for the CDBG grant
• Status update on Quaker Manor & Estates under new ownership by Sabattus Housing
• Review and approval of draft PHA annual report for operating year 2024
• Resignation of Commissioner Patton due to election to Town Council

The Portsmouth Housing Authority Board unanimously approved a motion to join Sabattus Housing as co-applicants/sub-recipients for a $500,000 Community Development Block Grant to upgrade heating systems at Quaker Manor & Estates. The board also approved the 2024 annual report for submission to the Town Council President and Town Administrator. A status update for Quaker Manor residents was tabled due to no residents attending, and a special on-site meeting will be scheduled. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved joint PHA-Sabattus Housing CDBG application for $500,000 heating system upgrades (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 PHA annual report and authorized Chair to submit to Town Council President and Town Administrator (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 30, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Tabled Quaker Manor & Estates resident status update; special on-site meeting to be scheduled

Design Review Board

The Design Review Board will review two development plans. Space-Port LLC seeks approval for an 80'x196' storage facility at 0 Highpoint Avenue, already granted planning approval. Malkin Estates proposes eight condominium units (four duplexes) at 0 Bristol Ferry Road, requiring a special use permit and dimensional variances to reduce building separation from 100 ft to as low as 37.2 ft and setback from the interior way from 55 ft to as low as 5.9 ft. A public hearing on the project continues at the Planning Board on January 9, 2025.

• Review of 80'x196' storage facility at 0 Highpoint Avenue (Space-Port LLC)
• Preliminary plan for Malkin Estates: 8-unit condominium (4 duplexes) at 0 Bristol Ferry Road
• Applicant requests variance from 100' building separation to 37.2', 58.0', and 62.3'
• Applicant requests variance from 55' setback from interior way centerline to 5.9', 29', 31', and 32.8'
• Project requires special use permit for condominiums in R-20 zone