Foster public meetings in 2025

Engineering Board

The Foster Engineering Board has no meeting planned for December 2025. Consequently, there are no agenda items, decisions, or discussions scheduled for that month.

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will approve FY26 warrant expenditures of $76,323.65 (GW#8) and $316,665.25 (GW#9). It will renew dozens of existing business, victualing, gun shop, and other licenses for entities on Danielson Pike, Anthony Road, and other locations. The council will hold public hearings on a private detective license for Matthew Labonte (30 Victory Highway) and a cannabis retail license for Green Wave CC, Inc. (187 Danielson Pike). Additional items include updates on the police building, a vehicle‑damage ordinance, and a reappointment to the Alternative Zoning Board.

• Approval of FY26 warrants: GW#8 $76,323.65 and GW#9 $316,665.25
• Renewal of multiple business licenses (e.g., Aunt B’s Eclectic Finds, GCC Auto Sales, Cooke Brothers Imports, Foster Xtra Mart)
• Public hearing for private detective license – applicant Matthew Labonte, 30 Victory Highway
• Public hearing for cannabis/retail business license – applicant Green Wave CC, Inc., 187 Danielson Pike
• Reappointment to Alternative Zoning Board – Ed Lawson

The Foster Town Council approved a cannabis retail business license for Green Wave CC, Inc. and adopted a new ordinance allowing residents to file claims for vehicle damage caused by potholes. The council also approved a private detective license for Matthew Labonte, reappointed Ed Lawson as an alternate on the Zoning Board, and confirmed two business‑license renewals that had been removed from the consent agenda. The Community Learning Center grant was noted as $380,000.

• Approved cannabis retail business license for Green Wave CC, Inc. (5‑0)
• Approved new vehicle‑damage ordinance (5‑0)
• Approved private detective license for Matthew Labonte (5‑0)
• Approved two business‑license renewals for Stone House Inn and Cornerstone Farm (3‑0, 2 recusals)
• Removed Stone House Inn and Cornerstone Farm licenses from consent agenda (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda minus the two licenses (5‑0)
• Reappointed Ed Lawson as alternate on Zoning Board for one‑year term (5‑0)
• Noted Community Learning Center municipal grant of $380,000

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to discuss charter reviews, state conveyance tax changes, and property updates. The body will enter executive session to address dam repairs, security devices, and the acquisition of real property P10/L35A.

• Discussion of Tom Woods Preserve property update (P13/L46, 20 acres)
• Review of 2025-2026 Trust Safety/Security Grant application
• Executive session regarding dam #526 repairs/litigation
• Executive session regarding acquisition of real property P10/L35A
• Discussion of RI State Conveyance Tax changes

The board unanimously accepted the November 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It also voted unanimously to convene an executive session to discuss dam repairs, security devices, property acquisition, and public fund investment, and later voted unanimously to return to the public meeting. The treasurer will seek clarification on the conveyance tax change and the board will gather information for a Charter Review Committee presentation.

• Accepted 11.04.2025 Minutes and Executive Minutes (unanimous)
• Convene Executive Closed Session on dam repairs, security devices, property acquisition, and fund investment (unanimous)
• Return to Public Meeting from Executive Session (unanimous)
• Treasurer to seek clarification on conveyance tax change (no vote recorded)
• Board to gather information for presentation to Charter Review Committee (no vote recorded)

Engineering Board

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific projects, contracts, or ordinances are listed for decision or discussion.

The Engineering Board voted unanimously to approve the purchase of a printer and software for creating accountability tags for all members. The board also decided there will be no town‑wide drill in December and no Engineering Board meeting that month. Additional announcements included upcoming fundraisers and community events.

• Approved purchase of printer/program for accountability tags (unanimously)
• Cancelled town‑wide drill in December (decision)
• Cancelled Engineering Board meeting in December (decision)

Town Council

The Town Council will hold a groundbreaking ceremony for the new Foster Police Headquarters on November 15, 2025 at 1:00 PM. The event will take place at 110 Danielson Pike and includes remarks from local, state, and federal officials. The project’s total cost is $4,680,000. On‑site parking will be provided for attendees.

• Ceremonial groundbreaking for Foster Police Headquarters
• Location: 110 Danielson Pike, Foster, RI
• Total project cost: $4,680,000
• Speakers include Town Council President, state and federal representatives, and Police Chief Gina Lindell
• Onsite parking available next to the construction site

Town Council

The Town Council will review warrants totaling $553,790.25 and tax roll abatements. The body will also discuss updates to the police building and phone system, as well as the Police Chief contract.

• Approval of FY26 GW#7 warrants for $553,790.25
• 2025 Real Property Tax Roll Abatements of $31,005.03
• Public hearings for liquor license renewals
• Discussion of Police Chief contract
• Review of DEM Grant Application and Plan

The Foster Town Council approved the October 23, 2025 minutes and the FY26 warrant for $553,790.25, both unanimously. It accepted the consent agenda items after a brief discussion of item #4, also unanimously. The council approved a new business license for Legendary Transportation and set annual fees for several liquor license classes. It granted renewal licenses and fixed the number of liquor licenses to be issued for the 2025‑2026 term, all votes 5‑0.

• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Approved FY26 warrant for $553,790.25 (5-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda items except #4 (5-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda item #4 on Additions and Abatements (5-0)
• Approved business license for Gary McNally d/b/a Legendary Transport (5-0)
• Set annual liquor license fees: Class A $500, Class B $500, Class D $800, extra hour $200, entertainment $300, holiday sales $100 (5-0)
• Granted renewal liquor licenses to Healey’s Liquor, The Watering Hole, and other listed businesses (5-0)
• Fixed number of liquor licenses for term: 2 Class A, 5 Class B, 1 Class D (5-0)

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will review the status of contracts, engineering, and construction plans for the new station at the Benjamin Eddy Building.

• Review of contract status with New England Construction
• Review of foundation plan and construction plan status
• Review of subcontractor vetting and bids
• Discussion on temporary power and schedule
• Review of buyout status from New England Construction

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will discuss preparations for Bright Night 2025, including decorations and vendors. The body will also review the budget and discuss events such as Santa, Adopt a Tree, and Fill A Cruiser.

• Bright Night 2025 planning (decorations, participants, and Farmers Market vendors)
• Budget review
• Trunk or Treat recap
• Phillips Field discussion
• Planning for Santa, Adopt a Tree, and Fill A Cruiser events

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will hold its regular November 4 meeting to review minutes, public comments, financial reports and grant information. The board will also consider a draft memorandum of understanding with RIDEM for bow hunting on trust lands and a donated bench for the Spencer Pond area. An executive session is scheduled to address necessary repairs and litigation for dam #526 and the acquisition of property abutting Tom Woods Preserve. The meeting is open to the public with accommodations available upon request.

• Donation of a second HA bench for the Spencer Pond area
• Draft MOU with RIDEM Division of Fish/Wildlife for bow hunting on FLT properties
• Executive Session: dam #526 repairs and related litigation
• Executive Session: acquisition of real property abutting Tom Woods Preserve (P13/L46)
• 2025‑2026 Trust Safety Grants & Scholarship deadline November 21, 2025

The board unanimously accepted the October 7, 2025 minutes and executive minutes. It also unanimously approved applying for a Trust Safety Grant. In an executive session, members unanimously authorized a closed session to address dam #526 repairs and the acquisition of real property abutting Tom Woods Preserve, then unanimously voted to close the executive session and resume the public meeting.

• Accepted October 7, 2025 Minutes and Executive Minutes (unanimous)
• Approved application for Trust Safety Grant (unanimous)
• Convene Executive Closed Session for dam #526 repairs and property acquisition (unanimous)
• Close Executive Session and return to Public Meeting (unanimous)

Engineering Board

The Foster Engineering Board will convene to approve the prior meeting's minutes, receive reports from the fire station, police, and Emergency Management Agency, and consider any old or new business items. The agenda also includes a period for public comment before adjourning.

• Approval of previous meeting’s minutes
• Station reports
• Police report
• EMA (Emergency Management Agency) report
• Public comment period

The board set the date for a town‑wide emergency drill on November 18, 2025. It also announced that capital‑budget planning will start in November and operating‑budget planning will begin in January. No votes or formal approvals were recorded; the meeting consisted mainly of reports and discussion.

• Scheduled town‑wide drill for November 18, 2025
• Planned start of capital‑budget planning in November 2025
• Planned start of operating‑budget planning in January 2026

Town Council

The council will consider consent agenda items including approval of October 9 minutes and a FY26 warrant for $70,688.48. It will discuss old business items such as a police building update, charter review committee appointments, revisions to the business dumpsters ordinance, and a new vehicle‑damage ordinance. New business includes a recreation committee appointment and the schedule for November/December meetings.

• Approval of Minutes for October 9, 2025
• Approval of FY26 warrant $70,688.48
• Police Building Update
• Revision of Ordinance Sec. 12-48 Business – Dumpsters
• New Ordinance – Vehicle Damage

The council accepted the consent agenda, which included approval of the FY26 GW#6 warrant for $70,688.48 and the October 9 minutes. It appointed five members to the Charter Review Committee, revised the dumpster ordinance, postponed the vehicle‑damage ordinance, and made new committee appointments. The council also changed the meeting schedule for November and December.

• Approved FY26 GW#6 warrant $70,688.48 (5-0)
• Accepted Consent Agenda, including October 9 minutes (5-0)
• Appointed five members to Charter Review Committee (5-0)
• Revised Ordinance Sec. 12-48 Businesses – Dumpsters (5-0)
• Postponed Vehicle Damage ordinance to Dec 11 meeting (5-0)
• Appointed Mary Jo Chretien to Semiquincentennial Committee (5-0)
• Appointed Tara Krawczyk to Recreation Committee (5-0)
• Changed council meeting schedule: Nov 13, cancel Nov 27; Dec 11, cancel Dec 25 (5-0)

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Conservation Commission will meet to review reports from the Land Trust and Social Media liaisons. The body will discuss a budget update and plans for Earth Fair 2026.

• Budget Update
• Earth Fair 2026

The commission approved the September 2025 meeting minutes. It also approved spending up to $500 for vests or sweatshirts with logos for Earth Day and other town events. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Approved up to $500 for Earth Day vests/sweatshirts (motion carried unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried unanimously)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a pre-application conference regarding a kennel and rescue facility. The board will also consider a landscape plan for the police station and a recommendation letter to the Town Council.

• Pre-application conference for Roxie’s Place Animal Sanctuary at 88 Danielson Pike
• Police Station Landscape Plan approval
• Final decision for 6 Cucumber Hill Rd
• Preliminary Plan Approval for 11 North Rd

The Planning Board amended the August 20, 2025 minutes to correct a recording error and then approved the amended minutes. Both motions passed by unanimous consent. No other substantive actions were decided at this meeting.

• Amended August 20 minutes to reflect Ms. Downes-Fortune’s absence (unanimous consent)
• Approved the amended August 20 minutes (unanimous consent)

Town Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a new ordinance that sets procedures and fees for disposing of bulk residential waste. It will also consider several financial items, including approval of FY25 and FY26 warrants totaling $117,775.28. Additional agenda items include updates on the police building and a progress report from the municipal fellow.

• Approval of FY25 warrant $523.98 and FY26 warrant $117,251.30
• Public hearing on bulk residential waste disposal ordinance and fee schedule
• Bid approval for gas and diesel
• Bid approval for winter sand
• Bid approval for gravel

The council approved the bulk residential waste ordinance (Sec. 28-3) and adopted its fee schedule for the 2025‑2026 fiscal year. It also approved procurement contracts for gas and diesel, winter sand, and gravel, each by a 4‑0 vote. The consent agenda, including FY25 warrants of $523.98 and FY26 warrants of $117,251, was accepted unanimously.

• Accepted consent agenda (FY25 $523.98, FY26 $117,251) – vote 4‑0
• Adopted Sec. 28-3 Collection and Disposal of Residential Bulk Waste ordinance – vote 4‑0
• Adopted bulk waste fee schedule for FY2025‑2026 – vote 4‑0
• Approved gas and diesel contract to Dennis Burke, Inc. at $0.265/gal gas, $0.195/gal diesel – vote 4‑0
• Approved winter sand contract to DiFazio Materials, LLC at $21.90/ton delivered – vote 4‑0
• Approved gravel contract to DiFazio Materials, LLC at $21.90/ton delivered – vote 4‑0

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust meeting will discuss new and old business, including a request to use trust property for bobcat habitat research and repairs to auxiliary spillway Dam #526. The agenda also covers a bench donation for Spencer Pond and updates on stewardship and finances. An executive session will focus on dam #526 repairs/litigation, acquisition of property near Tom Woods Preserve, and investment of public funds.

• Presentation request by Christopher Hickling to use FLT property for bobcat movement research
• Flagging of auxiliary spillway Dam #526 for upcoming repairs with GZA Environmental Engineering
• Family request to donate a bench in memory of Dr. Robert and Marjorie Spencer for Spencer Pond
• Executive session: § 42-46-5(a)(2) dam #526 necessary repairs/litigation
• Executive session: § 42-46-5(a)(5) acquisition of real property abutting Tom Woods Preserve (P13/L46; P10/L35A)

The trustees unanimously accepted the September 2 minutes and executive minutes. They approved granting Mr. Hickling use of FLT properties for bobcat movement and habitat research. They also approved contacting Pinetop LLC to repair the concrete spillway at Spencer Pond. The meeting was closed for an executive session and later reopened, both motions passing unanimously.

• Accepted 09/02/25 Minutes and Executive Minutes (unanimous)
• Granted Mr. Hickling use of FLT properties for bobcat research (unanimous)
• Authorized contact with Pinetop LLC to repair Spencer Pond concrete spillway (unanimous)
• Closed public meeting and convened executive closed session (unanimous)
• Closed executive session and returned to public meeting (unanimous)

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will review its budget and consider several new items, including Phillips Field, Woody Lowden, and a Trunk or Treat event. The committee will also update the calendar with upcoming events such as Veterans Day and Bright Night. Old business includes a recap of the recent yard sale, and the committee will discuss plans for Bright Night 2025 before taking public comment.

• Phillips Field
• Woody Lowden
• Trunk or Treat event
• Calendar / Schedule (Veterans Day)
• Bright Night 2025

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board will meet to review reports and conduct general business. The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate with no specific projects or votes listed.

The board reviewed station reports, training updates, and upcoming events. No approvals, denials, or votes were recorded. The meeting consisted of informational items and scheduling notices only.

Town Council

The council will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance for disposing of bulk residential waste and adopt a fee schedule for the current fiscal year. It will also act on routine items including approval of minutes, warrants totaling $113,890.72, and reports, as well as discuss updates on the police building, charter commission appointments, and a bid for winter salt. New business includes a community survey.

• Approval of minutes for September 11, 2025
• Approval of FY25 warrant GW#27 $262.09 and FY26 warrant GW#4 $113,628.63
• Public hearing on bulk residential waste disposal ordinance and fee schedule
• Police building update
• Bid approval for winter salt

The Town Council approved the consent agenda, continued charter commission appointments, appointed Joann Johnson and Joyce Lepaoja to the Semiquincentennial Committee, accepted the winter salt bid from Eastern Salt at $76.45 per ton, and authorized the council president to create a general survey for all residents. All motions passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved consent agenda (4-0)
• Continued Charter Commission appointments (4-0)
• Appointed Joann Johnson and Joyce Lepaoja to Semiquincentennial Committee (4-0)
• Accepted winter salt bid to Eastern Salt at $76.45 per ton (4-0)
• Authorized council president to create a town-wide resident survey (4-0)

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will review the town's budget and consider actions related to the 2026 Earth Day Conservation Fair, the Dark Skies Initiative, and Saturday clean‑up events at the DPW. The meeting includes routine items such as approving minutes and receiving reports from the land‑trust and social‑media liaisons. No final decisions are noted; items are marked for discussion or potential action.

• Approval of May 2025 meeting minutes
• Budget discussion (potential action)
• Earth Day Conservation Fair 2026
• Dark Skies Initiative update
• Cleanup Saturdays at DPW (potential action)

The commission approved the May 2025 meeting minutes, with the motion carried. No other formal actions were taken; the members discussed plans for the 2026 Earth Day Conservation Fair and related items. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will conduct public hearings for two business license applications. The body will also discuss a heating oil price lock for the 2025-2026 season and a DPW capital request for ball field netting.

• Business license hearing for AZ Hives North America LLC, Carnica Farm & Apiary LLC, and Jonna A. Sanders at 3 ½ Burgess Road
• Business license hearing for L&M Auto Repair & Performance LLC at 45 Anthony Road
• Approval of warrants FY25 GW#26 for $1,659.31 and FY26 GW#3 for $555,072.02
• Heating oil price lock extension with Rambone and Sprague for 2025-2026
• DPW Capital Request for ball field netting

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda and granted business licenses to AZ Hives (Agricola Slovenia) and L&M Auto Repair. It also appointed members to the 250th Semiquincentennial Committee, reappointed two Juvenile Hearing Board members, awarded a $56,275 netting contract for the ball field, and approved a heating‑oil price‑lock extension and a PTO fairgrounds event waiver.

• Approved Consent Agenda (5‑0)
• Approved business license for AZ Hives North America LLC / Agricola Slovenia at 3% Burgess Road (5‑0)
• Approved business license for L&M Auto Repair & Performance LLC at 45 Anthony Road (5‑0)
• Appointed Sharon Antonelli, Nancy Robinson, Denise DiFranco, and Matthew Haynes to the 250th Semiquincentennial Committee (5‑0)
• Reappointed Mary Jo Chretien to the Juvenile Hearing Board for one‑year term (5‑0)
• Reappointed Steven Croteau to the Juvenile Hearing Board for three‑year term (5‑0)
• Awarded netting contract for the ball field to RA DeFusco & Son for $56,275.00 (5‑0)
• Approved heating‑oil price‑lock extension with Rambone & Sprague for 2025‑2026 season (5‑0)

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will meet to discuss Phillips Field maintenance, upcoming fundraisers like a yard sale and Trunk or Treat, and event planning for fall and winter. The agenda includes reports, new business items, and future event discussions, with no formal decisions listed.

• Phillips Field lining and concession stand updates
• Yard Sale and Trunk or Treat fundraiser planning
• Food Truck Nights recap and August scheduling
• Family Day at Woody Lowden in September

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust (FLT) will hold its regular meeting on September 2, 2025, at the Ben Eddy Building in Foster, RI. The public is invited to participate, with accommodations available upon request. The meeting includes discussions on a new co-op hunting program, revised dam repair contracts, land subdivision results, and stewardship updates for FLT properties.

• Presentation by RIDEM on co-op hunting program for FLT properties, including Tom Wood Preserve
• SumCo Eco Contracting revised contract for Dam #526 repairs
• Public Hearing results for Minor Subdivision at 6 Cucumber Hill (5.9 acres)
• Executive Session to discuss dam repairs/litigation and acquisition of 20 acres abutting Tom Woods Preserve
• Stewardship updates, including HA bench by Spencer Pond

Police Department

The Police Station Building Committee will discuss the status of contracts and construction plans. The body will review progress regarding engineering, surveying, and subcontractor bidding.

• Status of contract with New England Construction
• Review of foundation and construction plan status
• Status of engineering and surveying
• Subcontractor vetting and bids
• Planning for a ground breaking event

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a special meeting to discuss and take action on a specific appointment. The primary focus of the meeting is the appointment of Peter Lapolla as Interim Zoning Official.

• Appointment of Peter Lapolla as Interim Zoning Official

Planning Board

The Foster Planning Board will hold a continued public hearing on a minor subdivision and zoning variances for a property at 6 Cucumber Hill Rd. The board will also approve minutes from the August 6 meeting and elect officers.

• Public hearing on minor subdivision and zoning variances for 6 Cucumber Hill Rd (Plat 1 Lot 23)
• Request to subdivide 5.9-acre lot into two residential lots violating minimum size/frontage/yard requirements
• Continued from August 6, 2023 meeting

The Board approved a variance for 6 Cucumber Hill Rd with conditions, then approved the subdivision of the property. The Board also reappointed the Chair and Vice Chair and authorized a letter to the Town Council addressing dam‑related concerns. All motions were adopted by vote.

• Approved variance with conditions (30‑day equipment removal, no structures on Lot 32) – vote 5-1
• Approved subdivision of 6 Cucumber Hill Rd – vote 6-0
• Authorized letter to Town Council on dam concerns – vote 5-1
• Reappointed Anthony Renzi as Chair and Hilary Downes‑Fortune as Vice Chair – vote 6-0
• Approved August 6, 2025 minutes – vote 6-0
• Motion to adjourn the meeting – passed

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will discuss the appointment of Stephen Greenleaf as Building/Zoning Official. The body will also review DPW paving projects and a request for a rubber tire excavator.

• Approval of warrants for $81,522.24 (FY25 GW#24) and $220,647.17 (FY26 GW#1)
• Appointment of Stephen Greenleaf as Building/Zoning Official
• DPW paving projects for Paine Road and South Killingly Road
• DPW capital request for a rubber tire excavator
• Lease agreement for Police Department communication equipment

The council approved the Department of Public Works request for a rubber‑tire excavator (5‑0). It allocated $5,000 to South Foster, $10,000 to a firefighter incentive program, and $35,000 to the Engineering Board for public‑safety purposes (3‑0, with two recusals). The council also accepted the resignation of building/zoning official George Dumont (3‑0, with two recusals). Routine items such as the consent agenda, minutes, and warrants were approved unanimously.

• Approved DPW rubber‑tire excavator request (5‑0)
• Allocated $5,000 to South Foster fire company (3‑0, 2 recusals)
• Allocated $10,000 to firefighter incentive pay program (3‑0, 2 recusals)
• Allocated $35,000 to Engineering Board for public‑safety use (3‑0, 2 recusals)
• Accepted resignation of building/zoning official George Dumont (3‑0, 2 recusals)
• Approved consent agenda as presented (5‑0)
• Approved minutes for June 26 2025 and July 10 2025 and related warrants (5‑0)
• Moved DPW capital request item to New Business before consent agenda (5‑0)

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee is meeting to discuss the logistics for August and September events. The body will also review the April–June quarterly report and discuss the use of Phillips Field and Woody Lowden.

• Food Trucks event scheduled for August 20, 2025
• Yard Sale scheduled for September 20, 2025
• Planning for U.S. Semiquincentennial 250th Anniversary
• Phillips Field lining, usage, and concession stand
• Fundraiser planning and use of Stripe for online payments

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a request to divide 5.9 acres at 6 Cucumber Hill Rd. into two residential lots. The board will also hold pre-application conferences for two commercial projects on Danielson Pike and determine the review process for a new police station.

• Public hearing for minor subdivision and variances at 6 Cucumber Hill Rd.
• Pre-application conference for a new gas station at 195 Danielson Pike
• Pre-application conference for four 10,000 sq. ft. cold storage buildings at 44 Danielson Pike
• Jurisdiction decision on review process for the new police station
• Preliminary plan approvals for 69 Mt. Hygeia Rd. and 117 C Plainwoods

The board reviewed staff findings on the proposed division of 6 Cucumber Hill Rd. into two residential lots, hearing the applicant’s presentation and extensive public comment about lot size, access, septic systems, and pond impacts. Members raised concerns about zoning compliance, water treatment upgrades, and the need for proof of historic dwelling use. No vote or final decision was recorded in the minutes.

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will discuss a contract for Dam #526 repairs and a request for a library Story Walk. The body will also hold an executive session regarding the acquisition of 20 acres abutting Tom Woods Preserve.

• Contract for Dam #526 repairs with SumCo Eco Contracting
• Public Hearing for Minor Subdivision at 6 Cucumber Hill Road
• Proposed acquisition of 20 acres (P13/L46) abutting Tom Woods Preserve
• Request from Jayne Lear regarding Foster libraries Story Walk
• Wildlife Camera Survey site access request from Laken Ganoe (URI/DEM)

The Foster Land Trust approved several items unanimously, including acceptance of prior meeting minutes, a library Story Walks request, and a contract with SumCo Eco Contracting. The board also designated representatives for a Planning Board hearing and authorized Dennis Therrien to sign all documents for the purchase of the P13/L46 parcel adjacent to Tom Woods Preserve. Additional actions included contacting Pinetop LLC about trail maintenance and moving into and out of an executive closed session.

• Accepted July 1st and 17th minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Jayne Lear’s library request for Story Walks on FLT property (unanimous)
• Accepted SumCo Eco Contracting contract pending minor corrections (unanimous)
• Designated Ms. Tibbetts, Mr. Therrien, and Mr. Boyden to attend Planning Board hearing (decision)
• Authorized Mr. Therrien as signatory for all documents for purchase of P13/L46 property (unanimous)
• Ordered contact with Pinetop LLC to address high‑bush encroachment on Spencer trail (decision)
• Moved to close public meeting and convene executive closed session (unanimous)
• Moved to close executive session and return to public meeting (unanimous)

Police Department

The committee will discuss and take action on the status of the new police station project. Key focus areas include contract status with New England Construction and the progress of construction plans.

• Contract status with New England Construction
• Engineering and surveying status
• Foundation plan and construction plan status
• Subcontractor vetting and bids
• Ground breaking event planning

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to discuss and take action on old business. The primary focus is selecting a bid for repairs to a dam.

• Bid decision for toe of dam maintenance and RIDEM-approved repairs to auxiliary spillway of Dam #526 at Maurie Dunbar

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will convene to approve minutes from the June 26, 2025 meeting and a $59,152.27 warrant. The agenda includes old business items like waste collection fees and police station progress, and a new update on the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge.

• Approval of June 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approval of FY26 warrant GW#22 ($59,152.27)
• Collection fee schedule for non-household waste items
• NEC Police Station build progress and cost
• Update on Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge

The council approved the $4.86 million contract with New England Construction to build the new police station, passing the motion 4‑0. They also approved FY25 warrants GW#22 for $59,152.27 and GW#23 for $14,583.33, with a 5‑0 vote. The council waived the permitting fee for the Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge roof repairs, passing 4‑0. Additionally, they continued approval of the June 26, 2025 minutes to be considered at the August 14 meeting, passing 4‑0.

• Approved $4.86 M police station contract with New England Construction – passed 4‑0
• Approved FY25 Warrants GW#22 ($59,152.27) and GW#23 ($14,583.33) – passed 5‑0
• Waived permitting fee for Swamp Meadow Covered Bridge roof repairs – passed 4‑0
• Continued approval of June 26, 2025 meeting minutes to August 14 meeting – passed 4‑0

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will review budget reports and discuss the management of Phillips Field and Woody Lowden. The body is also planning a calendar of community events and reviewing the town website.

• Phillips Field lining, use, and concession stand
• Woody Lowden playground and current usage
• August 20 Food Truck Night
• Old Home Days, fundraiser, and yard sale scheduling
• Town website links, pages, and forms

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will review bids for maintenance and RIDEM-approved repairs to the auxiliary spillway of Dam #526 at Maurie Dunbar Acres. The body will also discuss property stewardship and the acquisition of real property abutting Tom Woods Preserve.

• Bid openings for toe of dam maintenance and auxiliary spillway repairs to Dam #526 at Maurie Dunbar Acres
• Discussion of real property acquisition for P13/L46 abutting Tom Woods Preserve
• Updates on Maurie Dunbar vandalism and haying at Hayfield (P17/39A)
• Review of new FLT Trail Brochures
• Installation of HA bench by Spencer Pond

The board unanimously approved the June 3, 2025 minutes. The discussion of management plans was tabled. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting reviewed Dunbar dam bids and reported stewardship updates.

• Accepted June 3 minutes (unanimous)
• Management plan discussion tabled (no vote recorded)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will discuss the cost and progress of the NEC Police Station and a fee schedule for non-household waste. The body will also consider a warrant for $153,909.60 and business licenses for beekeeping organizations.

• Approval of Warrant FY26 GW#21 for $153,909.60
• Collection fee schedule for non-household waste items
• NEC Police Station build progress and cost
• Business licenses for Project Bee Strong and The American Center for Young Beekeepers
• NRI 4H use of Fairgrounds and Maintenance

The council approved the consent agenda, which included the minutes from June 12, 2025 and a $153,909.60 FY26 warrant. They also voted to continue the allotment of funds for other public safety matters until the July 10 meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved consent agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes for June 12, 2025 (as part of consent agenda)
• Approved FY26 warrant GW#21 for $153,909.60 (as part of consent agenda)
• Continued allotment of funds for other public safety to July 10 (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (3-0)

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board will meet to receive reports from the police, EMA, and fire stations. The agenda consists of procedural items and general business.

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will meet to discuss the use and maintenance of Phillips Field and the Woody Lowden playground. The body will also review budget reports and plan a schedule of community events.

• Phillips Field lining, use, and concession stand
• Woody Lowden playground usage
• Food Truck Nights scheduled for June 25 and August 20
• New town website links, pages, and forms
• Planning for Old Home Days and Annual Yard Sale

Town Council

The Town Council will review the progress and cost of the NEC Police Station and a fee schedule for non-household waste. The body is also considering the recognition of Juneteenth as a town holiday and the appointment of a Deputy Clerk.

• Approval of Warrant FY25 GW#20 for $96,723.04
• Statute of Limitations Abatements totaling $49,905.06
• Swearing-in of new police officer Daniel Arraial
• Discussion of a new phone system for Town Hall and Police
• Executive session regarding Police Dispatcher Contract negotiations

The council approved Step 3 of the police station project at a guaranteed maximum price of $4.68 million, voting 5‑0. The consent agenda—including approval of the May 22, 2025 minutes, FY25 warrant GW#20 for $96,723.04, and statute‑of‑limitations abatements—was also approved after motions with a 4‑0‑1 vote and one recusal. The council voted to continue the garbage‑fee schedule and police‑station progress items to the next meeting (5‑0). No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved Step 3 of police station project at guaranteed maximum price $4.68 M (5‑0)
• Approved FY25 warrant GW#20 for $96,723.04 (4‑0‑1 recusal)
• Approved minutes for May 22, 2025 (4‑0‑1 recusal)
• Approved statute of limitations abatements (item 3) as amended (4‑0‑1 recusal)
• Removed item 3 from consent agenda (4‑0‑1 recusal)
• Continued garbage‑fee schedule and police‑station progress items to next session (5‑0)
• Swore in new police officer Daniel Arraial (ceremonial action)

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will discuss repairs for Dam #526 and the management plan for the Hayfield east field property. The body will also review an invasive plant management business request and stewardship updates for all properties.

• Review of site visits for Dam #526 repairs
• Downstream blockage report regarding Dam #526
• Hayfield (east field) property Management Plan
• Invasive Plant Management business request
• Bid openings for Dam #526 repairs scheduled for July 1st

The board voted unanimously to accept the April 16 and May 13 regular meeting minutes and also the April 16 and May 13 executive minutes. The board received an offer for invasive plant management but decided to take no action. No other substantive actions were taken at this meeting.

• Accepted April 16 and May 13 regular minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted April 16 and May 13 executive minutes (unanimous)
• No action taken on invasive plant management offer

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board will meet to review station reports from the Police and EMA. The agenda contains no specific new business or decisions for this meeting.

• Police Report
• EMA Report

Town Council

The Town Council will meet to discuss the recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday and the approval of an independent auditor for FY 2025. The body will also review updates on the police station building and town signage.

• Approval of Warrant #19 for $79,459.41
• Recognition of Juneteenth as a holiday
• Approval of Independent Auditor FY 2025
• Police Station Building update
• Foster Preservation request for sign(s) install

The council accepted the consent agenda, including the May 8 minutes and a $79,459.41 warrant. It approved a one‑year $40,000 audit contract with Bacon & Co. and authorized the president to sign. The council also approved Foster Preservation’s request for historic markers at the Shippee Schoolhouse site and voted to recognize Juneteenth as a town holiday.

• Accepted consent agenda (minutes, warrant #19) – vote 4‑0
• Approved $40,000 audit contract extension with Bacon & Co. – vote 5‑0
• Authorized council president to sign audit contract – vote 5‑0
• Approved Foster Preservation signs at Shippee Schoolhouse site – vote 4‑0
• Recognized Juneteenth as a town holiday – vote 4‑0
• Moved to Executive Session for litigation work – vote 4‑0
• Adjourned meeting – vote 4‑0

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider a comprehensive revision to the town code of ordinances and the appointment of a zoning committee. The board will also review an administrative subdivision request for 101 East Killingly Rd. Additional discussions include town signage and blight on Route 6.

• Administrative Subdivision request for 101 East Killingly Rd to create a non-buildable lot for the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management
• Potential comprehensive revision to the town code of ordinances
• Appointment of a zoning committee
• Discussion of Route 6 blight
• Discussion of Town Hall beautification and town signs

The Board voted unanimously to approve a motion to draft and send a letter to the Town Council expressing the Board's intent to beautify the town and shift implementation responsibility to the Council. The March 19, 2025 minutes were tabled for review at the next meeting. No other formal actions were taken.

• Tabled March 19, 2025 minutes for review at next Planning Board meeting
• Approved motion to send a beautification letter to Town Council (unanimous)

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Conservation Commission will meet to review the budget and debrief the 2025 Conservation Fair. The body will also discuss 'Dark Skies' and potential 'Clean-up Saturdays' initiatives.

• Budget update and action
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 debrief
• Dark Skies discussion
• Clean-up Saturdays potential action
• Earth Day Conservation Fair/Cleanup 2026 planning

The commission approved payment of all expenses incurred for the Earth Day 2025 event and the final bills for May advertisements and signs. A modified Dark Skies policy was adopted. The commission approved a summer break with no meetings in July and August, resuming in September. April 2025 meeting minutes were approved and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Approved payment of Earth Day expenses and final May ads and signs bills (motion carried)
• Adopted modified Dark Skies policy (motion carried)
• Approved summer break schedule with no meetings July/August (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (motion carried)

Land Trust

The Land Trust will discuss and potentially approve a new management plan for the TNC/Hayfield property (P17/39A) to allow haying. The board will also consider entering executive session to discuss dam maintenance and possible acquisition of two parcels abutting Tom Woods Preserve. Additionally, they will review a new RIDEM Open Space Grant round with applications due July 25.

• New management plan for TNC/Hayfield (P17/39A) to allow haying of field
• Executive session for dam #526 maintenance/repairs/litigation
• Executive session for acquisition of real property: P13/L46 and P13/L35A abutting Tom Woods Preserve
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update: HA bench
• New RIDEM Open Space Grant round – applications due July 25

The trustees unanimously approved the April 1 minutes. They then voted to close the public meeting, convene an executive closed session on dam maintenance and land‑acquisition matters, and later close the executive session and return to the public portion, keeping all executive‑session minutes sealed.

• Accepted April 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Closed public meeting (unanimous)
• Convened executive closed session on dam maintenance and land acquisition (unanimous)
• Closed executive session, returned to public meeting, and kept executive‑session minutes sealed (unanimous)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a public hearing for a business license application by Jamie Linde D/B/A Tri Star DOT for Occupational Medical Service. They will discuss the Rhode Island Resource Recovery municipal agreement for fiscal years 2026-27 and an update on the police station building project. In new business, they will consider a request from the Foster Preservation to repair the town house roof. The council will also enter executive session for collective bargaining with the International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 3422, regarding a police dispatcher contract.

• Public hearing for business license for Tri Star DOT at 146 Danielson Pike
• Approval of Warrant #18 for $111,511.24
• Discussion of RI Resource Recovery FY 26-27 Municipal Agreement
• Police Station Building Update
• Executive session for fire fighters/police dispatcher contract negotiation

The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included Warrant #18 for $111,511.24 and three new business licenses. It also approved a business license for Tri State DOT at 146 Danielson Pike, authorized the president to sign the solid‑waste agreement with RI Resource Recovery, and voted to move forward with a new roof for the historic Town House.

• Approved Consent Agenda, including Warrant #18 for $111,511.24 (5-0)
• Approved business license for Tri State DOT (Jamie Linde) at 146 Danielson Pike (5-0)
• Authorized Council President to sign RI Resource Recovery solid‑waste agreement (5-0)
• Approved proceeding with Town House roof replacement (budget under $32,500) (5-0)

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will review its budget and quarterly report, approve April minutes, and plan upcoming events including the Memorial Day Parade and spring sports field schedules. Old business includes follow-up on Phillips Field improvements and business ads for scoreboards and field nets. A wide range of community events for the year will also be discussed.

• Budget Review and Quarterly Report
• Memorial Day Parade planning: flyers, sign-ups, bus company, parade line-up
• Field Use Form update and Spring Sports calendar
• Business ads for Phillips Field: Scoreboards, See My Legacy, Field Nets
• Community Kickball at Phillips Field or Woody Lowden

Town Council

The Electors of the Town of Foster will meet to order a tax levy for town debts, state tax, and public maintenance. The meeting will address funding for highways, bridges, and the town's share of the Foster-Glocester Regional School District.

• Ordering a tax to be levied and assessed on ratable property
• Authorization of expenditures from the Capital Reserve Fund
• Funding for the Foster-Glocester Regional School District
• Funding for building, repairing, and amending highways and bridges
• Anticipation of notes and bonds

Police Department

The committee will discuss and take action on the final plans, budget, and construction schedule for the police station. The meeting includes reviews of the foundation plan and methods to expedite the start of construction.

• Final review of plans
• Review of budget and final cost
• Review of foundation plan
• Update on engineering or surveying
• Review of construction schedule

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board is meeting for a regular session. The agenda contains only routine procedural items: approval of minutes, reports from stations, police, and EMA, and old/new business with no specified topics. No decisions or public hearings on specific projects or financial matters are listed.

• No substantive items; agenda consists of standard procedural reports and reviews

The Engineering Board reviewed station reports and noted that town‑wide EMS training in April was cancelled. They discussed radio coverage, a May 20 training on fire alarms and solar panels, and mutual‑aid response. John Barrett was assigned to write a letter to the Police Chief requesting a mutual‑aid tanker for the nearest station. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

• John Barrett to write letter to Police Chief about mutual‑aid tanker (no vote)

Town Council

The Town Council will conduct public hearings regarding multiple amendments to zoning ordinances and the adoption of a Dark Sky ordinance. The body will also consider a business license application and a new homestead exemption percentage for 2025.

• Approval of Warrant #17 for $171,060.05
• Business license application for Joe's Towing at 93 Danielson Pike
• Proposed zoning changes including allowing commercial vehicle parking in the AR district
• Public hearing on a new Dark Sky ordinance (Chapter 18 - Nuisance Ordinances)
• Discussion on RIDOT rumble strip installation for Hartford Pike/Route 101

The council unanimously (5‑0) approved the business license application for Marvin J. Nadiger Jr. and Marvin J. Nadiger III d/b/a Joe's Towing. The council also unanimously (5‑0) approved the recommended amendments to Chapter 38 zoning sections, including 38‑272, 38‑277, 38‑286, 38‑287, 38‑289, 38‑321, 38‑322, 38‑324, 38‑325, 38‑386, 38‑387, 38‑388, 38‑467, 38‑468, 38‑469, and 38‑470.

• Approved business license for Joe's Towing (5-0)
• Approved amendments to Chapter 38 zoning sections 38-272, 38-277, 38-286, 38-287, 38-289, 38-321, 38-322, 38-324, 38-325, 38-386, 38-387, 38-388, 38-467, 38-468, 38-469, 38-470 (5-0)

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will hold its regular meeting on April 21, 2025. The agenda includes approval of March minutes, reports from the Land Trust Liaison and Social Media, and public comments. Under old business, the commission will discuss and possibly take action on the budget update and the Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 event. Future agenda items include the Dark Skies Initiative and summer meeting schedule.

• Approval of March 2025 regular meeting minutes
• Land Trust Liaison report
• Social Media update
• Budget Update discussion/action
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 discussion/action

The Conservation Commission approved the March 2025 minutes with a unanimous vote. No other actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The meeting was then adjourned at 8:05 p.m. after discussion of budget updates and upcoming Earth Day events.

• Approved March 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Police Department

The Foster Police Station Building Committee will meet to review progress on the police station project, including updates from the architect, construction plans, engineering, schedule, and budget. The committee will also discuss methods to expedite construction start and determine next steps. This is a working meeting with discussion and possible actions on each item.

• Progress with architect on plans
• Update on construction plans
• Update on engineering or surveying
• Update on schedule
• Update on budget

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to discuss the Town Council's decision to remove Capital Request funds from the f/y 25/26 budget. The body will also address stewardship and public relations for the Tom Woods Preserve.

• Executive session regarding dam #526 maintenance, repairs, and litigation
• Town Council's removal of Capital Request funds from f/y 25/26 budget
• Stewardship of Tom Woods Preserve
• Public relations and outreach for Tom Woods Preserve

The board unanimously approved a motion to close the public meeting and enter an executive closed session for dam #526 maintenance and necessary repairs litigation. They later voted unanimously to close the executive session and resume the public meeting. The board also unanimously accepted the final GZA report pending Ms. Chretien's approval and the draft request for proposals for the Dunbar dam project. The meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

• Motion to close public meeting passed unanimously
• Motion to convene executive closed session for dam #526 maintenance/repairs/litigation passed unanimously
• Motion to close executive session and return to public meeting passed unanimously
• Motion to accept final GZA report pending Ms. Chretien's approval passed unanimously
• Motion to accept draft RFQ for Dunbar dam project passed unanimously
• Public meeting adjourned at 8:30 p.m.

Town Council

The council adopted the FY 2026 budget with a total of $18,214,541 for the General Fund and $110,000 for the Land Trust. It also adopted a resolution urging the state to restore general revenue sharing and approved several contracts, including a three‑year refuse/recycling contract and a three‑year animal‑control contract. Additional actions included authorizing a deputy town clerk job posting, permitting a beer tent at Old Home Days, and accepting two recreation committee resignations. All motions passed unanimously (5‑0).

• Adopted FY 2026 budget $18,214,541 General Fund and $110,000 Land Trust (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-02 requesting reinstatement of state revenue sharing (5-0)
• Approved Refuse/Recycling contract with Rambone Disposal, total $1,123,525 over 3 years (5-0)
• Approved Scituate Animal Control contract (July 1 2025 – June 30 2028) with $3,000 annual increase (5-0)
• Authorized Town Clerk to advertise Deputy Town Clerk position (5-0)
• Approved beer tent for Foster Old Home Days (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Danielle Scott from Recreation Committee (5-0)
• Accepted resignation of Elaine Gugliotti from Recreation Committee (5-0)

Tax Board of Review

The Foster Tax Board of Review is holding an organizational meeting to elect a chair and secretary and review procedures. No specific property tax appeals or decisions are on the agenda.

• Election of Chair and Secretary
• Review of Board Procedures

The Foster Tax Board of Review elected Patti Moreau as Chair and Denise DiFranco as Secretary, with each motion passing unanimously (3‑0). The board discussed the Secretary's duties, including minute‑taking and quarterly reports. Lynne Rider will contact Randy Rossi of the League of Cities and Towns to explore a class on reviewing policies and procedures. No appeals were presented.

• Patti Moreau selected as Chair (3-0)
• Denise DiFranco selected as Secretary (3-0)
• Lynne Rider to contact Randy Rossi about policy‑review class

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will hold a regular meeting on April 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. at the Foster Town House. They will review the budget, discuss upcoming events (Easter, Earth Day, Memorial Day Parade), and address Phillips Field improvements including a proposed shed donation for a concession stand. The committee will also consider a food truck ordinance and plan for multiple seasonal events.

• Budget review and reports from committee members
• Easter event planning in partnership with the Library
• Memorial Day Parade details: flyer, sign-ups, and bus company arrangements
• Phillips Field upgrades: scoreboards, nets, and padding
• PHS Manufacturing to donate a shed for a concession stand at Phillips Field

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote to confirm the Administrative Officer's decision to waive Minor Land Development requirements for 146 Danielson Pike, allowing an additional business on-site. The board will also receive an update on UCONN-TAB and a housing proposal presentation from Representative Michael Chippendale.

• 146 Danielson Pike (Map 11 Lot 20) – waiver request to allow additional business use
• Vote to confirm administrative officer's waiver of Minor Land Development review
• UCONN-TAB update
• Housing proposal presentation by Rep. Michael Chippendale to strengthen Foster's future

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will hold a public meeting on April 1, 2025, with discussion on stewardship, grants, and public relations. A public comment period is included. The meeting will later enter executive session to discuss litigation regarding dam repairs and potential acquisition of two parcels abutting Tom Woods Preserve. The public is welcome.

• Phone request regarding potential development on Spencer Property
• Discussion of property mowing and trail maintenance contract updates
• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update and progress report
• Executive session for dam #526 maintenance and litigation
• Executive session for acquisition of P13, L46 and P13, L35A abutting Tom Woods Preserve

The Foster Land Trust board unanimously accepted the March 4th regular and executive minutes. The board then unanimously closed the public meeting, convened an executive closed session regarding dam maintenance and property acquisition, and later unanimously closed the executive session and returned to the public meeting. No other substantive business was reported.

• Accepted March 4th regular minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted March 4th executive minutes (unanimous)
• Closed the public meeting (unanimous)
• Convened executive closed session on dam maintenance and property acquisition (unanimous)
• Closed executive session and returned to public meeting (unanimous)

Town Council

The Town Council will conduct a preliminary budget hearing for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and hold a continued public hearing on 23 proposed amendments to Chapter 38 Zoning Ordinances. The body will also discuss a housing proposal and the appointment of an Administrative Officer.

• FY 2025-2026 Preliminary Budget Hearing
• Approval of Warrant #15 for $107,208.59
• Proposed zoning changes including commercial vehicle parking in the AR district (Sec. 38-286)
• Appointment of Interim Town Planner Peter Lapolla as Administrative Officer
• RIDOT rumble strip installation proposal for Hartford Pike/Route 101

The council approved the FY 2025‑2026 preliminary budget resolution with a unanimous 5‑0 vote. They also appointed Peter Lapolla as interim town planner (5‑0) and approved the consent agenda, except for the March 13 minutes (5‑0). The March 13, 2025 minutes were accepted (4‑0‑1) and several zoning ordinance items were sent back to planning (5‑0).

• Approved FY 2025‑2026 preliminary budget resolution (5‑0)
• Appointed Peter Lapolla as interim town planner (5‑0)
• Approved consent agenda (except March 13 minutes) (5‑0)
• Accepted March 13, 2025 minutes (4‑0‑1)
• Approved Warrant #15 for $107,208.59 (5‑0)
• Sent back zoning ordinances 38‑273, 38‑280, 38‑293, 38‑301, 38‑323, 38‑326 (5‑0)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council is holding a budget workshop to discuss and potentially take action on the FY 2025-2026 budget. The meeting includes the pledge of allegiance and adjournment. No specific budget items or dollar amounts are listed on the agenda.

• FY 2025-2026 budget workshop with discussion and possible action

Engineering Board

The Foster Engineering Board is holding a regular meeting with no specific action items listed. The agenda includes approval of previous minutes, reports from stations, police, and EMA, as well as old and new business discussion. Public comment will be taken.

The Board formally denied the application for a new fire truck grant. No vote count was recorded. Other agenda items were informational reports or discussion topics, with no approvals or rejections noted.

• Denied new truck grant (no vote recorded)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will vote on a waiver for a towing use at 93 Danielson Pike and discuss multiple proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinances, including solar installation decommissioning requirements, removing the three-dwelling limit on residential compounds, and designating GB and HC2 districts as growth areas.

• Vote on waiver from minor land development requirements for towing use at 93 Danielson Pike (Map 14 Lot 101)
• Proposal to add decommissioning requirements for solar installations and require special-use permits for medium and major solar in all zones
• Proposal to remove the limit of three single-family dwellings on lots of 30+ acres in residential compounds
• Designation of GB and HC2 zoning districts as designated growth areas to enable development plan review
• Amendments to development plan review sections for consistency with RIGL 45-23-32

The Planning Board approved the minutes from the January 9 and February 19 meetings. It confirmed a waiver of Minor Land Development requirements for 93 Danielson Pike (Lot 101) after accepting a Class 4 survey. The board also adopted amendments to zoning sections 38‑292 (solar installations), 38‑356 (residential compounds) and 38‑358 (Highway Commercial 2), each passing unanimously.

• Approved January 9, 2025 minutes (6‑0)
• Approved February 19, 2025 minutes with corrections (6‑0)
• Waiver of Minor Land Development requirements for 93 Danielson Pike approved (5‑0‑1)
• Approved Sec. 38‑292 solar installations amendment (6‑0)
• Approved Sec. 38‑356 residential compounds amendment (6‑0)
• Approved Sec. 38‑358 Highway Commercial 2 amendment (6‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (6‑0)

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will meet to discuss old business items including a budget update, the Dark Skies Initiative, and plans for the Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025. The agenda also includes approval of February 2025 meeting minutes, reports from the Land Trust Liaison and social media, and public comments. No votes on ordinances or new projects are scheduled.

• Discussion of Dark Skies Initiative
• Planning for Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025
• Budget update for the commission
• Land Trust Liaison report
• Social media update

The Foster Conservation Commission approved the February 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Members discussed Earth Day planning, including vendor coordination, t-shirt quotes, and early bag distribution, and noted a $1,000 donation from Full Circle Recycling. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting was procedural and planning-focused.

• Approved February 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted $1,000 donation from Full Circle Recycling
• Discussed requesting increased town allocation for Commission budget
• Planned t-shirt quotes from multiple vendors for best price
• Scheduled banner placement 2 weeks before Earth Day
• Coordinated early bag distribution via Town Hall, libraries, school

Town Council

The Town Council will meet for a workshop to discuss and take action on the 2025-2026 budget. This session focuses on the financial planning for the upcoming fiscal year.

• Budget 2025-2026 workshop discussion and action

The Foster Town Council approved the consent agenda (minutes, warrant #14, licenses) and several zoning ordinance amendments, but continued the Dark Sky ordinance public hearing to April 24 after concerns about enforcement. The council also discussed the RIPTA Safe Streets grant, a refuse removal RFP, and a SeeMyLegacy presentation, but took no final action on those items.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrant #14 ($94,182.67), and license renewals (4-0)
• Continued Dark Sky ordinance public hearing to April 24 (4-0)
• Approved Chapter 24 Planning Ordinance Sec. 24-34 (4-0)
• Approved Chapter 38 Zoning Ordinance amendments (4-0)
• Moved to executive session for collective bargaining/litigation (4-0)
• Adjourned (4-0)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a second public hearing on a proposed Dark Sky ordinance (Chapter 18) and consider several zoning ordinance amendments, including changes to dimensional regulations, substandard lots, and accessory dwelling units. The council will also discuss a RIPTA Safe Streets grant, a refuse removal contract RFP, and approve consent agenda items including Warrant #14 for $94,182.67 and license renewals. An executive session is scheduled for negotiations with the firefighter union and town solicitor.

• Second public hearing continued on Dark Sky ordinance (Sec. 18-33 through 18-39) for adoption
• Amendments to Chapter 38 zoning ordinances: dimensional regulations, substandard lot merger, nonconforming uses, accessory dwelling units
• Discussion of RIPTA 'Safe Streets 4 All' Grant
• Refuse removal contract expiration and RFP
• Executive session for International Association of Fire Fighters Local 3422 and Police Dispatcher contract negotiations

Town Council

The Foster Town Council is holding a budget workshop on March 6, 2025, to discuss and possibly take action on the town budget. The agenda includes only the pledge of allegiance, the budget workshop, and adjournment, with no specific line items or proposals detailed. No public hearings, rezonings, or contracts are listed.

• Budget workshop (discussion and possible action)

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee is meeting to review its budget and discuss the scheduling of spring sports and field use. The body will also discuss various community events and a presentation for the Town Council regarding See My Legacy.

• Budget review
• Spring sports field use calendar and schedule
• Food truck 2025 events and food truck ordinance
• Proposed shed donation from PHS Manufacturing at Phillips Field
• Planning for events including Easter, Earth Day, and Memorial Day Parade

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will consider approving the FY 25/26 operational and capital budget and hold an executive session on acquiring real property (P13, L46 and P13, L35A) abutting Tom Woods Preserve. Other items include a river blockage downstream of the Maurie Dunbar dam, correspondence on the Forest/Biodiversity Protection Act H5294, and stewardship updates on all properties.

• Budget approval for FY 25/26 (operational and capital)
• River blockage downstream of Maurie Dunbar dam
• Tom Woods Preserve forest designation discussion
• Executive session on acquisition of P13, L46 and P13, L35A abutting Tom Woods Preserve
• Correspondence regarding Forest/Biodiversity Protection Act H5294

The Foster Land Trust approved its proposed budget and formed a committee to gather LMI Housing information from the Planning Board. It also determined ownership of the adjacent property at Dunbar dam and confirmed Tom Woods Preserve's Greenway and Dark Skies classification. No public comments were made, and the meeting included an executive session for dam maintenance and land acquisition.

• Approved Feb 4th minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Feb 4th executive minutes (unanimous)
• Approved proposed budget (unanimous)
• Formed committee to gather LMI Housing info from Planning Board (unanimous)
• Determined Dunbar dam adjacent property belongs to Greg Cassidy, with possible Town-owned portion
• Confirmed Tom Woods Preserve as part of Greenway and Dark Skies

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will hold a first public hearing, continued from December 12, 2024, on numerous proposed amendments to the Nuisance Ordinances (including a Dark Sky ordinance) and to the Planning and Zoning Ordinances, covering definitions, growth areas, use permits, dimensional regulations, and more. The council will also discuss a police officer swearing-in, consider a MOU for police CAD/RMS replacement, the RIPTA Safe Streets grant, additional Conservation Commission waste drop-offs, and review the school budget and other financial items.

• Public hearing on Dark Sky ordinance sections (Sec. 18-33 to 18-39) and extensive zoning amendments (Sec. 38-2 through 38-468).
• Approval of Warrant #13 for $181,203.13.
• Discussion of MOU for police CAD/RMS system replacement.
• Refuse removal contract expiration and RFP.
• Foster Regional School Budget presentation.

The Town Council approved opening the DPW garage for disposal of non-household goods for three Saturdays per year, coordinated between the Conservation Commission and the DPW Director. The council also approved the police department's CAD/RMS MOU, authorized the Council President to sign the Municipal Fellows Program Grant amendment, and continued the zoning ordinance public hearing to March 27. In executive session, the council appointed Jeffrey Poland to the Municipal Fellow position.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes, warrant #13 ($181,203.13), and January reports (5-0)
• Approved police department MOU for CAD/RMS replacing IMC (5-0)
• Approved opening DPW garage for 3 Saturday drop-offs of non-household waste (5-0)
• Authorized Council President to sign Municipal Fellows Program Grant amendment (5-0)
• Continued zoning ordinance public hearing to March 27 (5-0)
• Appointed Jeffrey Poland to Municipal Fellow position in executive session (5-0)
• Swore in Officer Christopher Lombardi to the Foster Police Department

Engineering Board

The Engineering Board will meet to review reports from the police, EMA, and stations. The board is scheduled to discuss the operating budget under new business.

• Discussion of Operating Budget

The Engineering Board accepted the January minutes and discussed keeping the radio and Engineering Board budgets unchanged, with an addition to the incentive program. They also discussed a statewide CAD system and appointed Mike Dexter and Zach Kent to lead town-wide training, scheduling a tanker shuttle drill for March 18. No formal votes were recorded.

• Accepted January 28, 2025 minutes
• Discussed keeping radio budget unchanged
• Discussed keeping Engineering Board budget with incentive program addition
• Appointed Mike Dexter and Zach Kent to lead town-wide training

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Conservation Commission will meet to review budget updates and plan for Earth Day 2025. The body will also discuss the Dark Skies Initiative and Saturday Town Waste options.

• Advertising schedule for FCF/Earth Day 2025
• Dark Skies Initiative update
• Saturday Town Waste options
• Budget update
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 discussion

The Foster Conservation Commission approved the January 2024 meeting minutes unanimously. The commission discussed Earth Day planning, including a $1,000 donation from the Land Trust, a full-page ad in the Home Journal, and t-shirt sponsorships. No formal decisions were made on these items, only discussions and updates.

• Approved January 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will consider two waiver requests for specific land uses and propose amendments to zoning ordinances regarding substandard lots and multifamily dwelling design standards. The board will also discuss the appointment of an Administrative Officer.

• Waiver request for towing use at 93 Danielson Pike
• Waiver request for commercial storage of weapons at 12 Boswell Trail
• Proposed amendment to Sec. 38-226 regarding substandard lots of record
• Proposed update to Sec. 38-389 site plan/building design standards for multifamily dwellings
• Appointment of Peter Lapolla as Administrative Officer

The Foster Planning Board postponed a minor land development waiver request for a towing use at 93 Danielson Pike until required survey documentation is available or the town solicitor determines existing documents are acceptable. The board also voted to send a letter of recommendation to the Town Council for reimbursement of the applicant's survey costs. A separate waiver request for commercial firearm storage at 12 Boswell Trail was discussed but not approved, with the board directing the applicant to seek a special use permit from the Zoning Board.

• Postponed waiver request for towing use at 93 Danielson Pike (5-0)
• Recommended Town Council reimburse applicant for Class 4 survey (5-0)
• Sent Sec. 38-226 (substandard lot) back to Town Council (5-0)
• Sent Sec. 38-389 (multifamily design standards) to Town Council (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Peter Lapolla as interim Town Planner (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 18, 2024 with correction (5-0)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will discuss several presentations and appointments, including a Planning Board budget recommendation. The meeting includes an executive session to discuss collective bargaining and litigation. The council will also consider a warrant for $251,613.58.

• Approval of Warrant #12 for $251,613.58
• Planning Board Budget Recommendation
• Police Dept. MOU for CAD/RMS replacing IMC
• Municipal Fellow Grant salary and benefit package
• Executive session regarding IBPO Local 637 and IAFF Local 3422 contracts

The Town Council approved a consent agenda including minutes and a warrant, and voted 4-0 to authorize the police department's upgrade to a new Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) and Records Management System (RMS), replacing the obsolete IMC system. The council also approved all 2025 recreation event dates, appointed Denise DiFranco to the Recreation Committee, approved Foster Old Home Days fairground dates, and authorized the finance director to negotiate a salary package for a municipal fellow within grant limits. In executive session, the council voted 4-0 on a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local 637.

• Approved consent agenda including minutes and Warrant #12 for $251,613.58 (4-0)
• Approved police CAD/RMS upgrade replacing IMC, with implementation in October (4-0)
• Approved all 2025 recreation event dates from April to December (4-0)
• Appointed Denise DiFranco to Recreation Committee through December 2026 (4-0)
• Approved Foster Old Home Days fairground dates July 25-27 with setup July 21-25 (4-0)
• Authorized Kelli Russ to negotiate salary package for municipal fellow within $7,000/month grant (4-0)
• Voted 4-0 in executive session on MOU with Police Union Local 637

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust approved a request from the RI Land Trust Council to produce baseline documentation of the Spencer property, and declined an offer from the Recreation Dept. for QR codes. In executive session, the board accepted GZA's letter supporting action on downstream blockage at Dunbar dam and the revised repair application document. No public comments were made, and a safety manual discussion was tabled.

• Approved RI Land Trust Council's request for Spencer property baseline documentation
• Declined Recreation Dept. offer for QR codes
• Accepted GZA's letter supporting action on downstream blockage at Dunbar dam
• Accepted revised repair application document from GZA
• Approved signage for trail kiosks
• Tabled discussion of safety manual

Recreation Committee

The Foster Recreation Committee will meet to review the budget, discuss a Senate Grant 2025, and follow up on Phillips Field. The agenda includes planning for 2025 events such as Easter, Earth Day, Memorial Day Parade, and food truck nights. Discussions will also cover committee descriptions, member positions, meeting attendance, and field use schedules.

• Budget review and discussion
• Senate Grant 2025
• Follow up on Phillips Field (scoreboards, nets, field schedules)
• Discussion of See My Legacy presentation for Town Council agenda
• Spring sports field use calendar and schedule

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will meet to review financial reports and stewardship updates for all properties. The body will discuss the 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant and enter executive session regarding dam #526 maintenance and litigation.

• 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant update regarding signage and HA bench
• Executive session regarding dam #526 maintenance, repairs, and litigation
• Review of safety manual
• Financial reports and reimbursements
• Stewardship updates for all properties

Planning Board

The Planning Board is meeting to collaborate with the budget committee on the Fiscal Year 2026 capital budget. The board will review recommendations for capital project requests submitted by department heads and update the six-year capital improvement program.

• Fiscal Year 2026 capital budget preparation
• Update to the six-year capital improvement program
• Review of department head capital project requests

Engineering Board

This meeting of the Foster Engineering Board is largely procedural, including approval of minutes, station reports, and a police report. The only substantive item is discussion of a capital budget under new business. No specific proposals, dollar amounts, or votes are listed on the agenda.

• New business item: discussion of the Capitol (capital) budget

The Foster Engineering Board held a routine meeting on January 28, 2025, with no formal motions, votes, or decisions recorded. Reports covered station updates, including equipment purchases and training, and discussions on capital budget, radios, and a CAD system. The meeting adjourned at 8:29 p.m.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded
• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Noted Station 2 purchase of 300 feet of 4-inch hose
• Noted Station 2 purchase of two ice-rescue suits
• Noted Station 3 purchase of battery-operated hand tools via grant
• Noted Zachary Kent as new Rescue Captain

Town Council

The Town Council approved Amendment A to the contract with New England Construction for pre-construction services for the police building project, at a cost of $359,150. The council also approved the consent agenda, including several license renewals, and discussed but did not vote on a proposal to open the DPW yard on three Saturdays. A budget schedule for the upcoming fiscal year was reviewed.

• Approved Consent Agenda with removal of Steven Lawton license (5-0)
• Approved Steven Lawton, Tended Seed Business Development LLC license (5-0)
• Authorized President to sign Amendment A for pre-construction services with NEC, $359,150 (5-0)
• Entered Executive Session for litigation (5-0)
• Adjourned (5-0)

Planning Board

The Planning Board will hold public hearings on waiver requests for minor land developments at 93 Danielson Pike and 12 Boswell Trail. The board will also discuss and potentially act on a comprehensive set of proposed amendments to Chapter 38 (Zoning Ordinances), covering definitions, growth area designations, use tables, dimensional regulations, and numerous other sections. Additionally, the board will discuss its 2025 goals.

• Public hearing: waiver request for minor land development at 93 Danielson Pike (Map 14 Lot 101), owned by Marvin J. Nadiger.
• Public hearing: waiver request for minor land development at 12 Boswell Trail (Map 10 Lot 95), owned by David Lyne.
• Proposed zoning amendments include designating GB and HC2 districts as growth areas, enabling development plan review for applications in those zones.
• Proposed changes to Section 38-356 (Residential Compounds) would permit up to five single-family residential lots per property based on capacity.
• Amendments to Section 38-292 (Solar Installations) would add decommissioning requirements and require special-use permits for medium and major solar installations in all zones.

The Planning Board approved minutes from three prior meetings (5-0) and continued a minor land development waiver request for 93 Danielson Pike to February 19, 2025. A second waiver request for 12 Boswell Trail was removed from the agenda because no application was filed. The board discussed 2025 goals and zoning ordinance updates but took no final action, tabling the Chapter 38 discussion to February 5, 2025.

• Approved minutes from July 17, 2024, August 21, 2024, and October 16, 2024 (5-0)
• Continued waiver request for 93 Danielson Pike to February 19, 2025
• Removed waiver request for 12 Boswell Trail from agenda (no application filed)
• Tabled Chapter 38 zoning ordinance discussion to February 5, 2025

Zoning Board of Review

The Foster Zoning Board of Review will hold a public hearing to discuss and potentially act on an application for a use variance to allow towing as the primary use of a property in the Highway Commercial 2 district. The applicant seeks relief because towing is not a permitted or similar use under the town's zoning ordinance. The board will also vote on approving minutes from a previous meeting.

• Public hearing on application by Marvin J. Nadiger for a use variance to conduct towing at 93 Danielson Pike (Plat 14 Lot 101)
• Towing is not listed in the Foster Zoning Ordinance Table of Uses and is not similar to any use permitted by special-use permit
• Approval of minutes from June 20, 2024

Conservation Commission Agendas

The Foster Conservation Commission will meet to approve November 2024 minutes, receive liaison reports, and hear public comments. Old business includes a budget update, discussion and potential action on the 2025 Conservation Fair/Earth Day, and the Dark Skies Initiative. New business involves a grant brought forward by Bob for discussion and potential action.

• Approval of November 2024 regular meeting minutes
• Budget update discussion
• Conservation Fair/Earth Day 2025 discussion and potential action
• Dark Skies Initiative discussion and potential action
• Grant brought forward by Bob discussion and potential action

The Foster Conservation Commission approved the November 2024 minutes and discussed Earth Day planning, including a $119 ad in the FHJ, vendor list, and potential sponsorships. They also discussed a possible DPW yard Saturday opening and budget concerns, but no formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved November 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:06 P.M. (unanimous)

Town Council

The Foster Town Council will consider a consent agenda including license renewals for auto repair and pawn shops, approval of warrant #10 for $188,695.90, and minutes. Old business includes updates on the Police Building Committee and Town Welcome Signs. New business covers Town Council meeting rules, a Municipal Fellows Program Grant, hiring a part-time/temporary Town Planner, and appointments to boards.

• License renewals for Route 6 Outpost pawn shop, several auto repair shops, and other businesses
• Warrant #10 approval for $188,695.90
• Police Building Committee update and selection of council member to attend committee meeting
• Hiring of part-time/temporary Town Planner and exploration of options for solicitation
• Appointments to Police Building Committee, Conservation Commission, Land Trust, Planning Board, and Town Historian

The Foster Town Council approved hiring Peter Lapolla as a part-time temporary Town Planner, pending background and reference checks. The council also adopted new meeting rules, approved a consent agenda with license renewals, and made several appointments and reappointments to town boards. A license renewal for Foster Auto was deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved hiring Peter Lapolla as part-time temporary Town Planner (5-0)
• Adopted new Town Council meeting rules (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda with license renewals, minus Foster Auto (5-0)
• Deferred Foster Auto license renewal to January 23, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved pole petition for 1 Round Hill Road (5-0)
• Appointed Steven Plouffe as Police Building Committee liaison (5-0)
• Reappointed Conservation Commission, Planning Board, Land Trust members, and Town Historian (5-0)
• Accepted Municipal Fellows Program grant and authorized president to sign (5-0)

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust held a routine meeting with no new business or public comments. The safety manual discussion was tabled, and the December inspection report for Dunbar dam was submitted. The board approved prior meeting minutes and entered executive session for dam maintenance and property acquisition, but no executive votes were taken.

• Approved Dec 3rd minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Dec 3rd executive minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled safety manual discussion
• Closed public meeting and entered executive session (unanimous)
• Returned to public meeting (unanimous)

Recreation Committee

The Recreation Committee will review the upcoming budget, discuss a fundraiser/contest, recap Bright Night events, and plan for winter skating, Easter events, and other seasonal activities. Old business includes field dedication recap and updates on Phillips Field scoreboards and netting. Public comments are welcome.

• Budget review discussion
• Phillips Field scoreboards and netting
• Bright Night recap including Fill a Cruiser and Adopt a Tree
• Planning for winter skating (Jan/Feb) and Easter events (April)
• Food Truck Nights scheduled for July and August

Land Trust

The Foster Land Trust will hold a public meeting covering routine business: minutes, correspondence, new and old business including a safety manual, stewardship updates, financial reports, grant updates (2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant and Safety/Scholarship Grants with a Jan 31 deadline), liaison reports, and public relations. The board will then enter executive session to discuss dam #526 maintenance and litigation, as well as the acquisition of real property for public purposes (P10, L35A). Any votes taken in executive session will be announced after the board reconvenes publicly.

• Discussion of Safety Manual under Old Business
• Update on 2021 RIDEM Recreational Trails Grant: signage, HA bench
• Trust’s Safety and Scholarship Grants application deadline January 31
• Executive Session § 42-46-5 (a)(2): dam #526 maintenance/necessary repairs/litigation
• Executive Session § 42-46-5(a)(5): acquisition of real property for public purposes: P10, L35A