Daniel G. Holland

The Narragansett Comprehensive Plan is a roadmap for land use and local government policy over 20 years. It aims to protect and enhance Narragansett's natural beauty and seaside character while promoting sustainable growth. Key areas of focus include re-establishing the Pier as a town center, enhancing the year-round community, balancing natural resource protection with economic growth, recognizing changing demographics, and improving community services and facilities. The plan addresses land use, economic development, community services, natural hazards, transportation, housing, historic resources, natural resources, and recreation, with specific goals and action items outlined for each area. It emphasizes sustainable planning practices, protecting the natural environment, and fostering a vibrant town center.

The council meeting included several key discussions. The town manager reported on water restrictions, a court stay on the three-student ordinance, and upcoming performance evaluations. An update on the library project highlighted the receipt of a reimbursement that reduced the bond repayment amount. The council also heard public comments regarding the rental registration process and the three-student ordinance.

This worksession focused on interviews for the alternate seat on the zoning board. Candidates were asked about their background, experience, and views on affordable housing and year-round residents. Discussion included the roles of the planning board and zoning board, the impact of zoning decisions on affordable housing, and the challenges of balancing the needs of year-round residents with those of seasonal residents and investors. Specific issues discussed included the floor area ratio, water issues, shore access, and the Point Judith development.

This worksession focused on a peer parking study, assessing parking issues and exploring potential solutions. Key discussion points included expanding two-hour parking limits in high-demand areas, adding seasonal three-hour parking limits on Ocean Road, considering paid parking in certain areas, exploring shared parking lot agreements with local businesses and institutions, and investigating technological improvements to parking enforcement. The possibility of reinstating a peer trolley system and implementing a one-way traffic loop to alleviate congestion were also discussed. Finally, the need for improved crosswalks, repaved sidewalks, and increased parking violation fines were raised.

The Narragansett Town Council meeting included the approval of minutes from previous meetings (October 23, 2023 work session; November 6, 2023 regular and executive sessions). A town manager update covered AED/CPR training, police academy graduations, and upcoming police award ceremonies. Discussion included budget submissions, library loan balances, and road projects. Public comment was opened, but no one spoke. Consent agenda items were approved, with items D2 and D7 removed for separate discussion. Item D2, concerning a road race, prompted questions about the allocation of funds to youth programs in different towns. Item D7, regarding amending attorney engagement terms, led to discussion about the attorney's role, rate increases, and the need for further information. Public hearings were held on ordinances concerning taxation and finance, and zoning revisions to comply with General Assembly mandates. The finance director presented ordinance amendments for compliance with state law, and the community development director presented on zoning ordinance revisions.