Foster public meetings in 2024

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss numerous proposed amendments to the town's zoning and planning ordinances to align with state law. The meeting includes a public hearing for a towing use variance and discussions on several subdivision approvals.

• Public hearing for 93 Danielson Pike regarding a Minor Land Development Waiver and Use Variance for towing
• Proposal to recommend a Dark Sky ordinance to the Town Council
• Discussion of subdivision approvals for Red Rock Farm, 102A Plainwoods Road, and 159 Old Plainfield Pike
• Proposed zoning changes including designating GB and HC2 districts as designated growth areas
• Discussion of RI Department of Housing award for 2 years of housing planning assistance

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold first public hearings on a proposed Dark Sky ordinance to regulate outdoor lighting, and on numerous amendments to zoning, planning, and nuisance ordinances. The council will also consider a consent agenda including warrant approval for $40,444.67 and renewal of dozens of business licenses for secondhand dealers, victualers, gun shops, campgrounds, and more.

• First public hearing on a Dark Sky ordinance (Ch. 18, Sec. 18-33 through 18-39) to regulate outdoor lighting purposes, definitions, applicability, criteria, administration, enforcement, and nonconforming lighting.
• Proposed zoning amendments include designating GB and HC2 districts as growth areas, requiring special-use permits for hazardous uses, updating solar installation decommissioning requirements, and permitting commercial vehicle parking in the AR district.
• Approval of Warrant #9 for $40,444.67.
• Renewal of 24 secondhand dealer licenses, 3 victualing licenses, 3 gun shop licenses, 9 retail/holiday sales licenses, 2 campground licenses, and over 40 other business licenses.

The Foster Town Council approved a consent agenda with numerous business, secondhand, victualing, gun shop, retail/holiday sales, private investigator, campground, and other license renewals, with some items voted on separately due to recusals. The council also continued public hearings on proposed ordinance changes for Planning, Zoning, and Nuisance Ordinances to February 27, 2025. Reappointments were made to the Zoning Board, and the council entered executive session to discuss contracts.

• Approved consent agenda minus Nov 26 minutes (5-0)
• Continued Nov 26, 2024 minutes to next agenda (5-0)
• Approved Hotel/Motel license for Stone House Inn Inc. (4-0-1, Rogers recused)
• Approved business license for Cornerstone Farm (4-0-1, Stone recused)
• Approved remaining consent agenda including all license renewals (5-0)
• Continued public hearings on ordinance changes to Feb 27, 2025 (5-0)
• Reappointed Robert Moreau to Zoning Board for 5-year term (5-0)
• Reappointed Ed Lawson and Jason Simmons as Zoning Board alternates (5-0 each)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will swear in new members, elect officers, and appoint numerous town officials including solicitor, probate judge, and department heads. They will also vote on Warrant #8 for $221,044.20, appoint board members, and set meeting dates for the coming year. Additionally, they will select a team to negotiate the dispatchers contract with the firefighters union.

• Approval of Warrant #8 totaling $221,044.20
• Election of Town Council President and Vice President
• Appointment of town officials including solicitor, probate judge, finance director, DPW, and others
• Appointment of Judy Williams to the Board of Canvassers for a term expiring March 2026
• Selection of negotiating team for dispatchers contract with IAFF Local #3422

The outgoing council held its final meeting, approved the consent agenda and Warrant #8, then the newly elected council was sworn in. The new council unanimously elected Steven Plouffe as President and Heidi Rogers as Vice President, and reappointed or appointed numerous town officials, including the Town Solicitor, Finance Director, DPW Director, and department heads. All votes were unanimous except for the DPW Director reappointment, which passed 4-0 with Heidi Rogers recused.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved Warrant #8 for $221,044.20 (5-0)
• Elected Steven Plouffe as Town Council President (5-0)
• Elected Heidi Rogers as Vice President (5-0)
• Appointed Joanna Achille as Town Solicitor (5-0)
• Reappointed Kelli Russ as Finance Director/HR with 3-year contract (5-0)
• Reappointed Gordon Rogers as DPW Director with 3-year contract (4-0, Rogers recused)
• Reappointed George Dumont as Building & Zoning Official, Jeff Lowe as Plumbing Inspector, Michael Paolucci as Electrical Inspector (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss several proposed amendments to the town's zoning and planning ordinances to align with state law. The board will also consider a new Dark Sky ordinance and two subdivision approvals. Additionally, the board will discuss its goals for 2025.

• Proposed Dark Sky ordinance (Chapter 18 - Nuisance Ordinances)
• Administrative subdivision approval for Red Rock Farm (03/0001 and 03/0002)
• Minor subdivision approval for 102A Plainwoods Road (01/0022)
• Proposal to designate GB and HC2 zoning districts as designated growth areas
• Proposed zoning changes for solar installations, communications towers, and accessory dwelling units

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will hold a regular meeting to discuss routine business including minutes, correspondence, and financial reports. Key items include an update on the Town Hazard Mitigation Plan related to Land Trust properties and a progress report on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant. The board will also enter executive session to discuss dam maintenance and litigation, as well as the acquisition of real property for public purposes.

• Town Hazard Mitigation Plan re: Land Trust (new business discussion)
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update: signage, HA bench
• Executive session: dam #526 maintenance/necessary repairs/litigation
• Executive session: acquisition of real property for public purposes (P13, L46 and P13, L35A)
• Safety manual (old business discussion)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council is holding a transition workshop with current and newly elected councils to discuss appointments to boards/committees, contracts (including police building with New England Construction, town house repairs with Bill Gould, and various department heads), the hazard mitigation and floodplain management plan, and upcoming public hearings on zoning changes and accessory dwelling units. The agenda also includes an executive session for 11 litigation matters. No votes are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Executive session on 11 litigation matters (e.g., S. Boucher v. D. DiFranco, Mill Road Realty v. Town of Foster)
• Police building contract with New England Construction
• Town House repairs contract with Bill Gould
• Upcoming public hearings on Chapter 16 Section 38 and ADUs
• Municipal Fellowship Grant and welcome signs discussion

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board will discuss two subdivision proposals: an administrative subdivision for Red Rock Farm (merger of two lots) and a minor subdivision at 102A Plainwoods Road. The board will also review a set of proposed nuisance ordinances for a Dark Sky ordinance and numerous amendments to the zoning code, including designating GB and HC2 districts as growth areas and updating standards for nonconforming uses, solar installations, and parking. Additionally, the board will discuss its 2025 goals.

• Admin. subdivision approval – Red Rock Farm (Plat 3 Lot 1 and 2) merger and division.
• Minor subdivision approval – 102A Plainwoods Road, creation of one buildable lot.
• Proposal to recommend Dark Sky ordinance (Sec. 18-33 through 18-39) to Town Council.
• Zoning amendments to designate GB and HC2 districts as growth areas, enabling development plan review.
• Multiple zoning ordinance amendments including nonconforming uses, solar decommissioning rules, and commercial vehicle parking in AR district.

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will hold its regular monthly meeting, discussing routine business including approval of minutes and reports. Key items include a budget update and planning for the Conservation Fair and Earth Day 2025. No major decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Budget update discussion
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 planning

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a public hearing on liquor license renewals and vote on a consent agenda including approval of General Warrant FY25 GW#7 for $112,264.02. New business includes a Thanksgiving proclamation and a farmer's market letter. The council will also enter executive session to discuss potential litigation (Amita Rodman v. Denise DiFranco).

• Public hearing on liquor license renewals
• Approval of General Warrant FY25 GW#7 $112,264.02
• Thanksgiving Proclamation (November 24, 2024)
• Transition Meeting at Town House (November 26, 2024)
• Executive session for potential litigation PC24-03767 Amita Rodman v. Denise DiFranco

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet on November 5, 2024. The board will consider financial reports, a grant update for the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant, and stewardship updates on all properties. It will also enter executive session to discuss two potential property acquisitions (parcels P10, L29B and P13, L46/P13, L35A) and necessary repairs or litigation related to dam #526. Public comments will be heard at the start of the meeting.

• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update and progress report: signage, HA bench
• Executive session under § 42-46-5(a)(5): acquisition of real property for public purposes - P10, L29B
• Executive session under § 42-46-5(a)(2): dam #526 maintenance/necessary repairs/litigation
• Executive session under § 42-46-5(a)(5): acquisition of real property for public purposes - P13, L46 and P13, L35A
• Financial reports including reimbursements and treasurer liaison report

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss updating the town website with Civic Plus. The body will also review interview and hiring procedures for the Town Planner and Social Services Director.

• Update and upgrade to Town website with provider Civic Plus
• Hiring procedures for Social Services Director
• Hiring procedures for Town Planner
• Executive session regarding potential litigation: PC24-03767 Amita Rodman v. Denise DiFranco et al.

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a second public hearing on an ordinance to establish a Municipal Court, covering both general municipal court and a housing court. The Council will also discuss new business items including Municipal Road and Bridge Program state funds, a police station land transfer, and an explanation of a local ballot question. Consent agenda includes approval of general warrants totaling $153,504.21 (FY25 GW#5 $105,108.10 and GW#6 $48,396.11) and meeting minutes. An executive session is scheduled for potential litigation in the case of Amita Rodman v. Denise DiFranco.

• Second public hearing on Chapter 3 Municipal Court ordinance (Articles I and II) establishing a municipal court and housing court
• Approval of general warrants: FY25 GW#5 $105,108.10 and FY25 GW#6 $48,396.11
• Discussion of Municipal Road and Bridge Program state funds for road projects
• Police Station Land Transfer proposal
• Executive session for potential litigation: PC24-03767 Amita Rodman v. Denise DiFranco

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Conservation Commission will meet to review the budget and discuss the Dark Skies Initiative and Earth Fair 2025. The body will also receive reports from the Land Trust and Social Media Liaisons.

• Budget Update
• Dark Skies Initiative
• Earth Fair 2025

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a proposed expansion of the Foster Veterinary Clinic at 9 Cucumber Hill Road, which requires several dimensional variances. The board will also consider minor land development applications for a compassion center with a drive-thru at 187 Danielson Pike and a two-family dwelling conversion at 91 Danielson Pike. An administrative subdivision for the South Foster Volunteer Fire Company is recommended for approval with conditions. Additionally, the board will discuss strategies to attract private investment in the town's commercial corridor.

• Public hearing: Foster Veterinary Clinic expansion (1,802 sq ft) with three dimensional variances (building coverage, well setback, parking) at 9 Cucumber Hill Road.
• Minor land development conditional final plan for compassion center (Green Wave CC) at 187 Danielson Pike, reconstruction with drive-thru, conditional on RIDEM and RIDOT permits.
• Minor land development final plan for two-family dwelling conversion at 91 Danielson Pike.
• Administrative subdivision for So. Foster Vol. Fire Co. Charitable Trust at 110 Danielson Pike (Plat 14 Lot 19-B) for lot line adjustment, recommended approval with conditions.
• Discussion on attracting private investment in the commercial corridor.

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold two public hearings: one to establish a Municipal Court (including a Housing Court) and one to amend business regulations, removing development plan review requirements and specifying that liquor and cannabis businesses must appear before the Council for a public hearing. The Council will also discuss Town House Restoration, a Pavement Management Agreement, and police communication equipment. A consent agenda includes approval of meeting minutes and warrants totaling $106,066.90. An executive session is scheduled for potential litigation.

• First public hearing to create Municipal Court and Housing Court (Chapter 3)
• Second public hearing to amend Chapter 12 Businesses, removing development plan review and requiring public hearings for liquor/cannabis businesses
• Approval of general warrants: FY24 GW#30 $958.80 and FY25 GW#5 $105,108.10
• Discussion of Pavement Management Agreement
• Police communication/console equipment under Cops Grant

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will primarily discuss and plan the upcoming Trunk or Treat/Spooky Trail event, including police detail, setup logistics, and a parade from the library. They will also review Phillips Field use, scoreboard sponsorships, and a playground fundraiser. Other agenda items include a Veterans Day ceremony, a yard sale recap, and a proposal for metal signs with QR codes.

• Trunk or Treat/Spooky Trail planning with police detail and Friday/Saturday setup
• Discussion of scoreboards and field sponsors for Phillips Field
• Playground/fundraiser and open Recreation Committee position
• Veterans Day ceremony on November 11th
• Yard sale recap and metal signs with QR codes proposal

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will review financial reports and progress on a 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant. The body will enter executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property and repairs to Dam #526.

• RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update regarding signage and HA bench
• Repair work to downstream slope and erosion at Dam #526 discharge pipe
• Executive session on acquisition of real property P10, L29B
• Executive session on acquisition of real property P13, L46 and P13, L35A
• Executive session regarding Dam #526 maintenance and litigation

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold an executive session to discuss planner interviews, police building contract negotiations, and Providence Water contract. In open session, second public hearings are scheduled on proposed amendments to chapters on animals, building regulations, businesses, and zoning. New business items include a land transfer for the police building, awarding design-build services for the police station, Providence Water contract, and bid awards for fuel, sand, and gravel.

• Second public hearing on Chapter 38 Zoning amendments to align with state law (RIGL 45-24 series)
• Transfer of Land for Police Building
• Awarding of Design-Build Services for Police Station RFQ
• Providence Water Contract negotiation
• Bid awards for gas/diesel fuel, winter sand, and gravel (no dollar amounts listed)

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will convene to approve prior minutes and then adjourn into executive session to review respondent information for the police station project. They will discuss a potential recommendation to the Foster Town Council (FTC) and outline next steps. The meeting is open to the public, though the substantive discussion occurs in closed session.

• Review of September 17, 2024 meeting minutes
• Adjourn to executive session for respondent information review (discussion/action)
• Potential recommendation to Foster Town Council regarding police station project (discussion/action)
• Next steps discussion

Planning Board

The Planning Board will discuss a proposal to allow more five-acre residential lots and hold a public hearing on 33 recommended amendments to Chapter 32 Subdivision Regulations. The board will also review a final plan for a minor subdivision and discuss strategies to attract business investment.

• Final plan approval for a 4-bedroom dwelling at 44 Danielson Pike
• Proposed zoning change to permit as many five-acre single-family lots as a property has capacity for
• Public hearing on 33 recommended amendments to Chapter 32 Subdivision Regulations
• Proposal to permit subdivisions with privately owned and maintained roads
• Discussion on strategies and funding to attract business to the commercial corridor

The Planning Board voted 5-0 to table proposed changes to the Residential Compound zoning language for re-analysis before council presentation. They also approved all 33 items of the Chapter 32 Subdivision Regulations, including retaining state language for the Technical Review Committee, and added manufactured homes to the agenda for discussion only. No public comments were made.

• Tabled Residential Compound zoning language for re-analysis (5-0)
• Approved Chapter 32 Subdivision Regulations items 1-33 (5-0)
• Retained state language for Article 132-49 Technical Review Committee (5-0)
• Added manufactured homes to agenda for discussion only (5-0)

Police Department

The committee will meet to review respondent information in an executive session. The body will discuss and potentially act on a recommendation to the FTC.

• Executive session for FPD respondent information review
• Discussion and potential action on a recommendation to the FTC

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting to discuss and potentially take action on the budget for the 2025 Earth Day Conservation Fair, Conservation Overlays, and the Dark Skies Initiative Ordinance. They will also approve minutes from June 2024 and receive liaison reports.

• Budget discussion and potential action on Earth Day Conservation Fair 2025
• Discussion on Conservation Overlays
• Discussion on Dark Skies Initiative Ordinance
• Approval of June 2024 regular meeting minutes

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold first public hearings on sweeping amendments to zoning and other ordinances, including designating GB and HC2 districts as growth areas and updating definitions. A second hearing will consider a business license for other businesses, likely cannabis. The council will also approve meeting minutes and warrants totaling $661,685.58.

• Consent agenda: approval of warrants FY2024 #28 ($8,361.38) and FY2025 #3 ($653,324.20)
• First hearing: zoning amendments to designate GB and HC2 as designated growth areas for development plan review
• First hearing: zoning amendments to allow off-street parking of up to Class 8 vehicles in GB/HC2 and Class 6 in AR
• First hearing: zoning amendments to permit up to five-acre residential compounds
• Second hearing: Chapter 12 - Businesses: Sec. 12-49 license for other businesses (cannabis-related)

The Foster Town Council approved a heating oil bid from Rambone & Sprague at $2.749 per gallon locked until June 30, 2025, and accepted Anthony Renzi's resignation from the Police Building Committee, appointing Gregg Smolley in his place. The council tabled the transfer of land for the police building and the awarding of design-build services for the police station RFQ to the September 26 meeting. Multiple zoning ordinance sections were sent back to the Planning Board for clarification, and a new business license category was approved.

• Approved heating oil bid from Rambone & Sprague at $2.749/gal (4-0)
• Accepted Anthony Renzi's resignation from Police Building Committee (4-0)
• Appointed Gregg Smolley to Police Building Committee (4-0)
• Tabled police building land transfer to Sept 26 (4-0)
• Tabled police station design-build RFQ award to Sept 26 (4-0)
• Approved Sec. 12-49 license for other businesses (4-0)
• Sent multiple zoning sections back to Planning Board for clarification (4-0, one 3-1)
• Approved consent agenda including $653,324.20 warrant (4-0)

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss and take action on several upcoming events and projects. They will finalize preparations for the Annual Yard Sale scheduled for September 14, 2024, including vendor registration, signage, and advertising. Old business includes reviewing the Phillips Field schedule, opening ceremony plans, and field sponsorships. Additionally, the committee will discuss the Trunk or Treat event, playground/fundraiser, and future events like Roller Skating and Foster Old Home Days.

• Recreation Annual Yard Sale on 9/14/2024: vendor list, signage, social media ads, newspaper ad, setup and check-in
• Phillips Field: calendar of use, opening ceremony (date TBD), community day, scoreboard sponsors, field nets
• Trunk or Treat planning with Foster Public Libraries, Coventry Witches, parade, trunk registration, Spooky Trail
• Metal signs with QR codes for Recreation, Preservation, and Land Trust committees
• Discussion of playground/fundraiser and future events like Roller Skating and Foster Old Home Days

The Foster Recreation Committee met on September 11, 2024, and discussed upcoming events and projects. They reviewed plans for the annual yard sale on September 14, continued discussions on playground fundraising, and finalized details for Trunk or Treat on October 26. The committee also discussed Phillips Field dedication planning, including spring scheduling, scoreboards, field nets, and protective padding, as well as metal signs with QR codes for town groups. No formal votes were recorded; all items were discussion items.

• Approved minutes of August 7, 2024 meeting
• Set Trunk or Treat for October 26, 2024 with rain date October 27
• Confirmed yard sale date of September 14, 2024
• Discussed playground/fundraiser (no action)
• Discussed Phillips Field dedication and upgrades (no action)
• Discussed metal signs with QR codes (no action)

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to review stewardship updates and financial reports. The body will enter executive session to discuss maintenance and litigation for dam #526 and the acquisition of real property for public purposes.

• Executive session regarding dam #526 maintenance, repairs, and litigation
• Executive session regarding acquisition of real property P13, L46 and P13, L35A
• Update on 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant regarding signage and HA bench
• Availability of Archery Hunting permits for FLT properties
• Review of safety guidelines for field work on FLT properties

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will meet to review minutes and then adjourn to executive session to interview respondents to a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the police station project. The committee will also discuss a recommendation to the Foster Town Council (FTC) and next steps. The meeting is largely procedural.

• Adjourn to executive session for RFQ respondent interviews
• Review and possible action on recommendation to FTC
• Discussion of next steps for police station project
• Review of meeting minutes from earlier same day (8:00 AM)

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will meet to conduct interviews with Request for Qualifications (RFQ) respondents. These interviews and related actions will take place during an executive session.

• Executive session for RFQ respondent interviews

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board will discuss and potentially act on a minor subdivision final plan for a 4-bedroom dwelling at 44 Danielson Pike, an administrative lot-line adjustment at 1 Stoney Brook Road and 0 Pine Tree Lane, and a series of proposed ordinance amendments to multiple chapters of the town code, including extensive changes to the zoning chapter to align with state law. The board will also consider recommendations on animal licensing, building address identification, business licensing for liquor/cannabis and excavation, and manufactured home regulations.

• Minor subdivision final plan for 44 Danielson Pike – proposed 4-bedroom dwelling, septic system, utility pole, overhead wires, crushed stone driveway, and stormwater BMPs.
• Administrative subdivision lot-line adjustment at 1 Stoney Brook Road (17/0067) and 0 Pine Tree Lane (17/0073) to reduce nonconformance.
• New business – Chapter 12 businesses: recommendations to remove development plan review citations for certain licenses and to require liquor/cannabis businesses to appear before Town Council for a public hearing.
• New business – Chapter 38 zoning: recommendations to designate GB and HC2 districts as growth areas, update definitions, and amend nonconforming use and special-use permit provisions.
• New business – Chapter 16 manufactured homes: recommendations to define mobile home, house trailer, and manufactured home, and align installation permit procedures with state code.

The Foster Planning Board approved a series of ordinance changes across multiple chapters, including zoning, buildings, businesses, and planning, to align with state law and streamline review processes. It also approved an administrative subdivision lot-line adjustment and tabled a manufactured homes ordinance for further discussion with the Town Council. The board tabled the approval of July meeting minutes and took no action on a minor subdivision application due to missing plans.

• Approved administrative subdivision at 1 Stoney Brook Road and 0 Pine Tree Lane (5-0)
• Approved ordinance changes to Chapter 8 (Animals) Sec. 8-217, 8-221, 8-222 (5-0)
• Approved ordinance change to Chapter 10 (Buildings) Sec. 10-3 (5-0)
• Approved ordinance change to Chapter 12 (Businesses) Sec. 12-31; left Sec. 12-47 as is (5-0)
• Tabled Chapter 16 (Manufactured homes) ordinance changes until joint meeting with Town Council
• Approved ordinance amendment to Chapter 24 (Planning) Sec. 24-34 to match Town Charter (5-0)
• Approved all preceding ordinance updates to Chapter 38 (Zoning) (5-0)
• Tabled approval of July 17, 2024 minutes

Planning Board

The Technical Review Committee is meeting to discuss a preliminary plan for a minor land development project. The proposal involves a compassion center with a drive-through window for medical sales.

• Preliminary plan approval for Green Wave Compassion Center at 187 Danielson Pike
• Reconstruction of approximately half of a 4,326 sq. ft. building
• Installation of a new septic system
• Parking, drainage, and stormwater management improvements

Town Council

The Town Council will hold public hearings on proposed zoning amendments, including corner lot width requirements, residential compound allowances, and multifamily development standards. Second hearings will consider removing amusement license requirements and adopting a dark sky ordinance. The council also plans to enter executive session for contract negotiations and personnel matters.

• First hearing on Sec. 38-273 to allow corner lots abutting private roads with less than 300 feet of width/frontage.
• First hearing on Sec. 38-356 to permit up to five-acre single-family residential lots per property in residential compounds.
• Second hearing to remove all license requirements for events in Foster (Ch. 6 Amusements, Secs. 58-61).
• Second hearing to adopt a Dark Sky ordinance with purposes, definitions, criteria, enforcement, and nonconforming lighting (Ch. 18 Nuisances, Secs. 33-39).
• New business includes adoption of a Hazard Mitigation Plan and forming an interview committee for a planner position.

The Foster Town Council approved a police union contract and authorized sending a proposal to Providence Water, both in executive session. In open session, the council approved removing amusement event license requirements, adopted the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and moved $635 to the South Foster Fire Company. Several zoning and dark sky ordinance hearings were continued to September for clarification.

• Approved police union contract (5-0)
• Authorized solicitor to draft and send proposal to Providence Water (5-0)
• Approved removal of amusement event license requirements, Sec. 6-58 through 6-61 (5-0)
• Adopted Hazard Mitigation Plan as presented (5-0)
• Moved $635 from incentive program fund to South Foster treasury fund (5-0)
• Continued zoning ordinance hearings on Sec. 38-273, 38-281, 38-286, 38-356, 38-389 to September (5-0)
• Continued dark sky ordinance hearings on Ch. 18 Sec. 18-33 through 18-39 to future agenda (5-0)
• Scheduled special town council meeting for August 28 at 5:30 p.m. (5-0)

Recreation Committee

The committee discussed and planned several upcoming events, including the annual yard sale on September 14, 2024, a food truck event on August 21, 2024, and a Veterans Day field dedication and community day on November 11, 2024. No formal votes were taken; all items were discussed and assigned to members for coordination.

• Assigned tasks for September 14 yard sale: vendor space lining, ads, social media, police detail, barriers, portable unit
• Scheduled food truck event at fairgrounds for August 21, 2024, with police detail and sanitation ordered
• Planned to create subcommittee email list and Rec n' Crew volunteer list to fill open committee position
• Discussed fundraising ideas to enhance community events
• Confirmed Phillips Field use by Tri Town Titans on Saturdays through October and by Ponaganset High School as needed
• Scheduled Veterans Day field dedication and community day for November 11, 2024, with plaque research assigned to Dave
• Set Trunk or Treat for October 26, 2024, with rain date October 27

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to discuss property use, charter changes, and stewardship updates. The body will enter executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property P13, L46 and P13, L35A, as well as maintenance and litigation regarding dam #526.

• Consideration of allowing a non-profit Forest School to use properties for site visits
• Town of Foster's decision regarding Land Trust Charter Change
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant progress report on kiosks, signage, and HA bench
• Executive session regarding acquisition of real property P13, L46 and P13, L35A
• Executive session regarding dam #526 maintenance and litigation

The Foster Land Trust held a routine meeting, approving prior minutes and moving into executive session to discuss dam maintenance and property acquisition. In executive session, the board unanimously voted to hire an attorney to obtain a memorandum absolving the Trust from responsibility for restoration work on the Tucker property, and accepted final inspection reports from GZA. No other substantive decisions were made; safety guidelines were tabled.

• Approved July 9 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved July 9 executive session minutes (unanimous)
• Voted to secure attorney for Tucker property liability memo (unanimous)
• Accepted final inspection and visual reports from GZA (unanimous)
• Tabled safety guidelines

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold first public hearings on several ordinance amendments: removing amusement event license requirements (Chapter 6), adding a business license category (Chapter 12), adopting a Dark Sky ordinance (Chapter 18), and updating manufactured home permitting (Chapter 16). The consent agenda includes approval of warrants totaling $560,405.96 and abatements of $21,305.80. Old business covers reconsideration of earlier ordinance sections, charter amendments on a land trust conveyance fee and town manager, and a police station consultant. New business includes appointment of an interim DPW director, addressing budget overages for FY 2025, and a survey of Winsor Road.

• First hearing on amending Chapter 6 to remove amusement event license requirements
• First hearing on adopting a Dark Sky ordinance with sections 18-33 through 18-39
• First hearing on amending manufactured home permitting sections 16-81 to 16-83
• Consent agenda: warrants FY2024 #26 ($82,734.79) and FY2025 #1 ($477,671.24), plus abatements ($21,305.80)
• Old business includes reconsideration of ordinance sections 16-31, 16-57, 16-58, 16-59, 16-60, 38-2, and 38-272

The Town Council held first hearings on proposed amendments to Chapter 12 (business licenses) and Chapter 18 (nuisances), including a new Dark Sky ordinance to regulate exterior lighting. No final votes were taken; the items were introduced for public discussion and will return for further action.

• Held first hearing on Chapter 12 amendment to add a catch-all business license category
• Held first hearing on Chapter 18 amendment to remove event license requirements
• Held first hearing on Dark Sky ordinance sections 18-33 through 18-37 (purposes, definitions, applicability, criteria, administration)

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee is discussing upcoming community events such as a yard sale and food trucks. The meeting will also address playground fundraising and updates regarding Phillips Field.

• Food Trucks event scheduled for August 21, 2024
• Playground/fundraiser discussion
• Phillips Field use, schedule, and opening ceremony
• PHS Manufacturing shed delivery at Phillips Field
• Metal signs with QR code

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to review June minutes and discuss safety guidelines for field work on properties. The agenda includes updates on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant and reports from the Planning Board and Conservation Commission. An executive session is scheduled to discuss dam repairs and real property acquisitions.

• Updates on 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant progress
• Discussion of safety guidelines for field work on properties
• Executive session regarding maintenance and litigation for dam #526
• Executive session regarding acquisition of real property (P13, L46 and P13, L35A)
• Review of Land Trust promotional flyer

Planning Board

The Planning Board is discussing updates to the Draft Hazard Mitigation and Floodplain Management Plan Update before it enters public review. The board will also discuss next steps for notifying the public and the process for submitting the plan to RIEMA and FEMA.

• Review of changes from the planning team to the Draft Hazard Mitigation and Floodplain Management Plan Update
• Discussion regarding the duration and methods for the upcoming public review period
• Planning for formal submission to RIEMA and FEMA for review and approval

Planning Board

The board will consider recommendations for a new Dark Sky Ordinance and updates to manufactured home regulations. Members will also discuss tax incentives for businesses in specific districts and potential changes to subdivision and zoning laws.

• Recommendations for a new Dark Sky Ordinance
• Tax incentive proposals for businesses in GB or HC2 districts
• Amendments to manufactured home and trailer regulations
• Zoning updates for senior housing and residential compounds
• Discussion on subdivision road maintenance requirements

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will hold a public hearing regarding a special-use permit application from Clayville Baptist Church. The applicant seeks approval to construct a small cemetery for cremation at 7 Plainfield Pike.

• Special-use permit for a small cemetery at 7 Plainfield Pike
• Approval of February 14, 2024, meeting minutes

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will discuss the future direction of the police station construction project. The meeting includes reviews of architect fees, potential design services, and cost reduction strategies. Members will also address the status of project funding.

• Review of architect fees
• Discussion on potential RFQ for further design services
• Review of cost reduction and value engineering ideas
• Status of project funding and additional funding streams
• Review of a letter to the Town Council

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will discuss the budget and summer meeting schedule. The agenda also includes discussions regarding Earth Day Conservation Fairs and the Dark Skies Initiative Ordinance.

• Budget discussion (potential action)
• Earth Day Conservation Fair 2024 and 2025
• Dark Skies Initiative Ordinance
• Conservation Overlays
• Approval of May 2024 meeting minutes

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will review General Warrants totaling $177,007.05 and discuss ordinance reconsiderations. The agenda also includes DPW requests for paving Boswell Trail and purchasing a skid steer. Additionally, two police officers will be sworn in.

• Approval of General Warrants FY2024 #24 ($177,007.05)
• Swearing in of Sergeant Dennis Smith and Officer Vito Martinelli
• DPW request for Boswell Trail paving
• DPW request for a skid steer purchase
• Proposed bulk waste fee schedule

Recreation Committee

The committee will discuss summer event planning, including food truck dates and seasonal programs. Members will also address committee roles, new member welcomes, and playground fundraising ideas. Discussions include Phillips Field updates such as a scoreboard installation and shed delivery.

• PHS Manufacturing shed delivery at Phillips Field
• Food Truck dates for June 26 and August 21, 2024
• Scoreboard installation for baseball, football, lacrosse, and soccer
• Follow-up on the Senate Grant and Food Truck ordinance
• Discussion of upcoming events including Swing Into Summer and Yard Sale

Police Department

The meeting scheduled for May 29, 2024, to discuss the police station project was cancelled. The agenda included items regarding architect fees, funding, and project design.

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will discuss and take action on several items including a police building update, a land trust charter amendment, a construction permit fee increase, and two state zoning bills (H7981 and S2408). The council will also enter executive session for litigation, police contract negotiations, and personnel matters.

• Police Building Update
• Land Trust Charter Amendment
• Construction Permit Fee Increase
• H7981: Zoning Ordinances act
• S2408: Zoning Ordinances – Neighborhood Character and Smart Growth

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will discuss and potentially act on architect fees, design changes, cost reductions, funding status, and next steps for the station project. The meeting is open to the public.

• Discussion and possible action on architect fees and position
• Review of design changes and cost reduction ideas
• Status of available funds and potential funding opportunities
• Report to the Town Council and next steps

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will meet to approve April minutes, receive liaison reports, and hear public comments. Old business includes debriefing the 2024 Conservation Fair/Earth Day, a budget update, and potential action on a Dark Skies Ordinance. New business covers planning for the 2025 Earth Day Conservation Fair/Cleanup, the summer schedule, and the budget.

• Dark Skies Ordinance – potential action discussion
• Earth Day Conservation Fair/Cleanup 2025 planning discussion/action
• Budget update and potential action
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2024 debrief
• Summer schedule planning discussion/action

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board is reviewing proposed amendments to subdivision regulations and zoning ordinances, including standards for new roads, lot sizes, and residential compounds. Members are also discussing recommendations for commercial tax incentives, a potential town manager role, and removing event licensing requirements. These items address local land use, economic development, and municipal governance.

• Public hearing on Chapter 32 subdivision regulations, including recommendations for privately maintained roads and lot limits
• Recommendations for tax stabilization incentives and partial tax exemptions under Chapter 34 for commercial facilities
• Proposed zoning amendments to allow backland compounds (up to five single-family residences plus two LMI units) on 30-acre tracts without road frontage
• Discussion of eliminating event licensing requirements and associated fees under Chapter 6
• Proposal to remove frontage requirements for residential compounds and permit multiple five-acre lots based on site capacity

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will discuss proposed changes to a town tax that funds its operations and review progress on a state recreational trails grant. Trustees will consider volunteer safety guidelines, update summer maintenance schedules for trust properties, and examine a draft town floodplain management plan. A closed session is scheduled to address repairs and potential litigation regarding dam number 526.

• Town Council charter change suggestions regarding Land Use Conveyance Tax funding
• Progress report on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant, including needed kiosks and signage
• Draft safety guidelines for field work by trustees and volunteers
• Review of the Town of Foster 2024 Hazard Mitigation and Floodplain Management Plan draft risk assessment
• Executive session discussion on maintenance, repairs, and litigation for dam #526

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a public hearing to amend terminology for manufactured homes, mobile homes, and house trailers, and to cite exceptions for temporary substitute residences after damage. They will also discuss a police building update, a land use conveyance tax charter amendment, and a construction permit fee increase. Consent agenda includes approval of general warrants totaling $103,607.65.

• Public hearing on amending Sec. 38-280 for mobile home terminology and temporary residence exceptions
• Approval of General Warrants FY2024 #21 ($102,031.19) and #22 ($1,576.46)
• Discussion on Land Use Conveyance Tax Charter Amendment
• Construction Permit Fee Increase
• Memorandum of Understanding for Energy Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant Program

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss and decide on several items including a food truck ordinance, playground equipment fundraising ideas, and support for summer sports camps. They will also review reports, approve minutes, and plan upcoming events such as food truck nights and a yard sale.

• Food Truck ordinance discussion
• Playground equipment fundraiser ideas
• Support for Hoops camp & Summer Sports Camp
• Phillips Field use/maintenance and opening ceremony
• Senate Grant 2024 for scoreboards

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board is reviewing proposed changes to town zoning and subdivision regulations. Discussions include new tax incentives for businesses, residential development strategies, and updates to road requirements for subdivisions. The board will also address potential new residential districts and farmland overlays.

• Tax incentive recommendation for businesses in GB or HC2 districts
• Proposed backland compounds in the AR Zoning district
• Amendments to subdivision regulations regarding road ownership and maintenance
• Creation of a new AR-2 residential zoning district
• Recommendation to permit modular homes with foundations in all zones

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will vote to adopt the FY25 budget and set new recycling and tipping fees. The agenda includes multiple public hearings on zoning amendments for manufactured homes, event licenses, and livestock welfare standards. Additionally, the council will discuss a request to use Phillips Field for the Tri Town Titan and reconsider ordinances regarding trailers.

• Adoption of FY25 Budget
• Setting of Recycling/Tipping Fees
• Hearing on event license requirements for 100+ people
• Hearing on livestock welfare and kennel license standards
• Request to use Phillips Field for Tri Town Titan

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will hold a regular meeting on April 11, 2024, at the Foster Center Fire Department. The agenda includes standard procedural items such as roll call and approval of March minutes. The commission will discuss and take action on a budget update and the 2024 Conservation Fair/Earth Day event. Future agenda items include conservation overlays and a summer meeting schedule.

• Budget Update discussion and action
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2024 discussion and action
• Future agenda item: Conservation Overlays (May meeting)
• Future agenda item: Summer meeting schedule

Planning Board

The board will hear a presentation from Libra Planners regarding Low or Moderate Income housing development approaches. The meeting also includes discussions on amending subdivision regulations and zoning ordinances for modular and manufactured homes.

• Presentation by Libra Planners on affordable and LMI housing development
• Proposed amendments to Chapter 32 subdivision regulations regarding lot numbers and road specifications
• Recommendation that new roads in subdivisions be privately owned and maintained
• Zoning recommendation to permit modular homes with foundations in all districts
• Zoning recommendation to prohibit manufactured homes without foundations in all districts

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee is meeting to review the 3rd quarter report and the 2024-2025 budget, and to discuss numerous upcoming events and facility uses. Items include food truck nights, Earth Day, Memorial Day Parade, and potential playground equipment fundraising. The agenda is largely planning and discussion, with no final votes listed.

• 2024-2025 budget review
• Food Trucks 2024 and Food Truck ordinance
• Earth Day event on April 27, 2024
• Senate Grant 2024 for scoreboards at Phillips Field
• Request use of Phillips Field by Tri Town Titans

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board is holding a public hearing on proposed updates to subdivision regulations, including lot limits and road maintenance requirements. Members are also discussing zoning amendments that would change rules for modular homes, yard exceptions, parking, and senior housing. Additionally, the board will review recommendations for tax incentives aimed at attracting commercial and industrial businesses. Most items remain in discussion or recommendation stages rather than final votes.

• Public hearing on Chapter 32 subdivision regulations covering minor/major lots and road ownership
• Zoning amendments proposing rules for modular homes, dumpster yard exceptions, and parking licenses
• Recommendations for tax stabilization incentives for new or existing businesses in GB or HC2 districts
• Administrative subdivision review for property line reconfiguration at parcels 11/0077 and 11/0078
• Discussion of a Farmland/Conservation Overlay District near the Scituate Reservoir Watershed

Town Council

The Foster Town Council convened a special meeting on April 3, 2024, at the Benjamin Eddy Building. The agenda consisted solely of a Pledge of Allegiance, an executive session to discuss police department personnel policies and procedures, and adjournment. No public business, votes, or financial decisions were listed on the agenda.

• Executive session to discuss Police Department policies and procedures pursuant to RIGL 42-46-5

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will discuss routine operations, including property data updates and field safety guidelines for volunteers. Members will review the fiscal year 2024/25 capital and operational budgets and receive a progress report on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant. The board may also consider changes to its town charter and hold an executive session regarding real property acquisitions at P13 and L46, as well as maintenance for dam #526. These items cover how the trust maintains conservation properties, updates public trail infrastructure, and manages local waterways.

• Review of the Town Charter and Land Trust Act, including potential charter changes
• Updates on fiscal year 2024/25 capital and operational budgets
• Progress report on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant (kiosks, signage, HA bench)
• Safety guidelines for field work on Land Trust properties
• Executive session on real property acquisitions (P13, L46) and dam #526 maintenance

Engineering Board

The Foster Engineering Board will hold its regular meeting to receive status reports from Fire Stations 1–3, EMS, EMA, and police. The agenda also covers updates on fire apparatus procurement, upcoming budget hearings, and SAP proposals before adjourning.

• Status reports from Fire Stations 1–3, EMS, and EMA
• Police department update
• Update on fire apparatus status
• Update on budget hearings
• Update on SAP proposals

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting on March 18, 2024, at the Benjamin Eddy Building. The agenda includes routine procedural items such as roll call and approval of February minutes. The body will discuss the budget update, conservation overlays, and the 2024 Conservation Fair/Earth Day event. No specific dollar amounts or new ordinances are listed in the provided text.

• Discussion of Budget Update
• Discussion of Conservation Overlays
• Discussion and action on Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2024
• Discussion of April Meeting date

Town Council

The Foster Town Council is meeting to hold four public hearings on a series of zoning ordinance amendments, covering topics such as mass gathering permits, kennel licensing, manufactured homes, and various license fees. The council will also discuss old and new business, including a police station update, a farmers' market, and a construction permit fee increase.

• First hearing: amendment to allow town-sponsored events to bypass public hearing for mass gathering permits
• Second hearing: kennel license changes, including requiring development plan review and amending revocation powers
• Third hearing: $100 fine for chapter 12 violations, dumpster requirements for businesses, and removal of manufactured home park sections
• Fourth hearing: fee increases for theater, gravel banks, hawker, peddler, and mass gathering permits to $100
• New business: discussion of construction permit fee increase and homestead exemption

Town Council

This meeting was a budget workshop for the Foster Town Council to discuss multiple department budgets. The meeting was cancelled.

• Meeting cancelled

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee is meeting to review the 3rd quarter report and the 2024-2025 budget, and to discuss new business including a Senate Grant application and upcoming events like Easter at the Fairgrounds and Earth Day. The agenda also includes follow-up on Phillips Field and planning for a series of community events throughout the year, from winter skating to Bright Night in November. The meeting will also address committee member positions and attendance.

• 3rd Quarter report and 2024-2025 budget review
• Senate Grant 2024 discussion
• Easter at the Fairgrounds and Earth Day (April 27, 2024) planning
• Follow-up on Phillips Field, including PHS Manufacturing shed donation
• Food Truck ordinance and Food Truck Night events (July, August)

Planning Board

The board will review a development plan for a 186-foot communications tower intended to improve emergency responder communications. The meeting also includes discussions on proposed amendments to the town's zoning and subdivision regulations.

• Development plan review for a 186-foot communications tower with dimensional variances
• Proposed changes to permit individual manufactured homes but prohibit manufactured home parks
• Discussion of amendments to minor and major subdivision regulations
• Proposal to increase the long-term theater license fee from $0 to $100
• Discussion regarding a future AR-2 residential zoning district

Planning Board

The Technical Review Committee will review a development plan for a 186-foot communications tower intended to improve emergency responder communications. The committee will also discuss proposed amendments to subdivision regulations regarding road maintenance and lot creation.

• Proposed 186-foot communications tower with requests for dimensional variances and a special-use permit
• Recommendation to amend minor subdivision provisions regarding the number of lots that may be created
• Discussion on recommending that new roads in subdivisions be privately owned and maintained
• Proposal to add special provisions for major subdivisions not involving road creation

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will discuss the election of officers and safety guidelines for field work on properties. The meeting includes updates on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant and financial reports for the 2024/25 budget. An executive session is scheduled to discuss real property acquisition at P13, L46 and maintenance for dam #526.

• Election of Officers
• Safety guidelines for field work on FLT properties
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update
• Acquisition of real property at P13, L46
• Maintenance and repairs for dam #526

Town Council

The Foster Town Council is holding a budget workshop to discuss and potentially take action on the budgets for several town departments. Departments listed for review include Land Trust, Recreation, Planning/Building/Zoning, Human Services, Libraries, Public Works, Fire/Ambulance, Police, Town Clerk, and Finance. The meeting is a working session with no specific dollar amounts or contract votes listed on the agenda.

• Budget review for Police Department
• Budget review for Fire Dept. Ambulance Corps
• Budget review for Public Works Department
• Budget review for Planning, Building & Zoning
• Budget review for Foster Libraries

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board will receive reports from fire stations, EMS, EMA, and Police. The meeting also includes updates on tower insurance, Knox boxes, and fire alarm systems.

• Tower Insurance update
• Knox box update
• Fire alarm system update
• SAP discussion

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold two public hearings on a wide-ranging set of zoning amendments. The first hearing covers penalties, dumpster requirements, and extensive revisions to trailer regulations, including allowing new trailers but prohibiting new trailer parks. The second hearing addresses kennel licenses, increases to initial and renewal fees for many business licenses (e.g., alcohol, entertainment, auto repair), and updates to zoning board procedures. The Council will also receive a presentation on the Foster-Glocester Regional School budget and discuss a police building update.

• Proposed $100 fine for zoning violations, with a $500 fine if not corrected within 14 days (Sec. 38-3).
• New trailers would be allowed in Foster, but new trailer parks would be prohibited (Sec. 16-82, 16-121).
• Initial alcohol license fee proposed to increase to $500; entertainment license to $300 (Sec. 12-34, 12-35).
• First hearing on zoning changes includes 22 items, from dumpster requirements to Planning Board meeting rules.
• Second hearing on zoning includes 30 items, covering kennel licenses, business fees, and zoning board procedures.

Conservation Commission Agendas

The provided document contains only a placeholder for meeting materials. No specific topics, hearings, or actions are listed for discussion.

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will hold a public hearing to discuss a dimensional variance request for 0 Winsor Road. The applicant is seeking relief from lot width, frontage, and driveway intersection requirements to build a single-family residence.

• Variance request for 0 Winsor Road (Plat 17 Lot 78-A) to build a single-family residence
• Requested relief of approximately 250 feet from lot width requirements
• Requested relief of approximately 270 feet from frontage requirements
• Requested relief from Sec. 38-273 regarding driveways within 75 feet of road intersections

Planning Board

The Planning Board is reviewing multiple amendments to subdivision regulations and town ordinances. Discussions include changes to manufactured home regulations, zoning density, and new business requirements.

• Subdivision Regulation amendments regarding comprehensive permits and density bonuses
• Removal of trailer park creation provisions pursuant to Sec. 38-280
• Proposed $100.00 fine for violations of Chapter 12
• Tax incentive proposal for businesses in GB or HC2 zoning districts
• Requirement for all businesses to have dumpsters unless waived by town council

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will review correspondence regarding a forest conservation easement request and updates on ongoing projects. The meeting includes reports on the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant and upcoming capital and operational budgets for fiscal year 24/25.

• Forest Conservation Easement request
• Moffat, K. haying contract renewal
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update
• FY 24/25 Capital and Operational budgets
• Executive Session: acquisition of real property and dam #526 maintenance

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will review the 2nd quarter budget report, discuss upcoming events including Easter, Earth Day, and a new Food Truck Night, and follow up on Phillips Field improvements. The meeting also covers committee roles, attendance, and a Senate Grant application.

• 2nd Quarter report approval
• Senate Grant 2024 discussion
• Easter and Earth Day event planning
• Follow up on Phillips Field
• Food Truck Night scheduled for July and August

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold first and second public hearings on a series of zoning ordinance amendments covering nonconforming uses, special-use permits, stone wall protection, unified development review, adaptive reuse, and other provisions. The council will also discuss updates on the police building, a new police department policy, and consider appointments to the Technical Review Committee and Conservation Committee.

• First hearing on 15 zoning amendments including nonconforming by dimension, stone wall protection, and unified development review
• Second hearing on 6 zoning amendments including adaptive reuse, corner lots, and historic cemeteries
• Police Building Update and new policy 200.04 Transitional Employment/Light Duty
• Appointment of Technical Review Committee Members and Conservation Committee Member
• Cell Tower at the Woody Lowden

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hear a presentation from Libra Planners regarding low-or moderate-income housing strategies. The board will also discuss collaborating with the budget committee to prepare the Fiscal Year 2025 capital budget and update the six-year capital improvement program.

• Low-or Moderate-Income Housing presentation by Libra Planners
• FY2025 capital budget preparation discussion
• Six-year capital improvement program update

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission is meeting to handle routine business, including approving November 2023 minutes and receiving reports from liaisons. The main actionable item is a possible vote to approve spending for free plant distribution at Earth Day, with related discussion on the Conservation Fair and Earth Day 2023. Public comments are invited, specifically for Earth Day free plant discussion.

• Possible action: approval of expenditure for Earth Day free plant distribution
• Discussion/action on Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2023
• Discussion on Old Home Days communication and guests (no action expected)
• Approval of November 2023 regular meeting minutes
• Budget update

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold three public hearings on proposed zoning ordinance amendments, covering adaptive reuse, definitions, public notice, table of uses, prohibited uses, substandard lots, and Planning Board duties. The council will also discuss police building updates, appointments, and a police contract, and enter executive session for litigation and contracts.

• Public hearing on zoning amendments including adaptive reuse, corner lots, historic cemeteries, screening standards, and unified development review
• Public hearing on zoning definitions, public notice requirements, table of uses, prohibited uses, and substandard lot standards
• Public hearing on Planning Board duties per RIGL 45-22-7
• Approval of General Warrants FY2024 #12 for $631,944.37
• Contract negotiations with IBPO Local 637 and executive session on police contract and DPW Director's contract

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review will hold a continued public hearing regarding a special-use permit for a business. The board will discuss and take action on a proposal to build a gift shop on a property zoned Agricultural/Residential.

• Special-use permit application for a 768 sq. ft. gift shop at 12 Snagwood Road (Plat 13 Lot 36)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will review final and preliminary subdivision plans for properties on Central Pike and a separate lot. The meeting also includes extensive discussions regarding amendments to subdivision regulations, zoning ordinances, and business licensing requirements.

• Final plan review for a minor subdivision at 69-69A Central Pike by Borders Farm Preservation, Inc.
• Preliminary plan review for a minor subdivision creating one new lot with a single-family residence
• Proposal to increase zoning violation fines from $100.00 to $500.00
• Recommendation to require businesses to have a dumpster for license issuance/renewal
• Discussion of amendments to subdivision regulations to comply with RIGL standards