Debra LaButti

The meeting focused on the budgetary implications of energy policy, specifically concerning domestic fossil fuel development. Discussion centered on projected government revenues from increased fossil fuel development, which were contrasted with estimated annual non-climate change related damages from fossil fuel consumption, primarily health issues from air pollution. The committee also addressed federal spending on climate change risk mitigation and disaster assistance. A key point of contention was whether projected revenues accounted for these externalities. It was noted that current wind and solar power are cost-competitive with new fossil fuel power generation when external costs are excluded. Furthermore, the committee examined existing financial support provided to the oil and gas industry, specifically discussing $2.4 billion annually in tax breaks for the top five oil companies, which was debated as being the most effective use of taxpayer resources.

The discussion focused on Rhode Island's reopening guidelines for arts organizations, involving representatives from the Department of Health, Rhode Island Commerce, and the Department of Business Regulation. Key topics included current restrictions for outdoor performances, such as capacity limits (50% capacity or 500 people, whichever is lower) and the requirement for six-foot physical distancing. Specific guidance was provided for outdoor performers regarding distancing (14 feet from the crowd unless a plexi barrier is used, and distancing between singers), the use of instrument covers, and microphone sanitation. For indoor events, performances are currently allowed under the venue's assembly restrictions (50% capacity or up to 250 people), with an upcoming increase to 500 people starting May 15th. General principles emphasized throughout include mandatory masking, managing ingress/egress to maintain distancing, and following restaurant guidelines for food/beverage service, which should be separate from audience areas. Guidance for summer youth camps was noted as forthcoming. It was also confirmed that vaccination status does not currently change existing masking or physical distancing protocols, although spacing between instrumentalists and singers may be reduced to six feet if masks are worn.

The discussion focused on the accomplishments and resource needs of the Office of Attorney General. Key successes highlighted included intervening in the Champlin's Block Island case to protect environmental and public interests, successfully appealing the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers' decision regarding the Narragansett electric sale to secure ratepayer benefits totaling over $200 million, initiating lawsuits against Jewel and Navient resulting in consumer relief and loan forgiveness, securing the largest environmental penalty in a Clean Air Act case against Sims Metals Recycling, facilitating public access at the end of Public Street in Providence, and enhancing criminal justice capabilities through increased ballistics testing turnaround times. The speaker emphasized the heavy caseloads faced by prosecutors and civil litigation staff, noting that the office is operating with significantly fewer resources compared to similar state agencies, and requested an investment of 20 new full-time equivalent positions (FTEs), specifically for the health care and energy units, to address these demands and prevent staff burnout.

The meeting, chaired by Katie Egan, focused on key voting items, including aquaculture applications. The first item involved an aquaculture application from Thomas Blank to reconfigure existing gear into a single floating site, which was discussed in relation to local resident feedback and boundary lines established with the town. The panel voted to recommend approval of the application, deeming the activities consistent with competing uses in marine fisheries. The second application discussed was from Brad Bearinger in Jamestown, Dutch Harbor, requesting an additional three and a half acres to accommodate a new, less visually intrusive floating gear system, despite concerns raised regarding the density of baskets and the novelty of the technology. Discussions also covered the protocol for shellfish surveys, noting the transition to third-party sampling and associated costs.

The meeting agenda included review of the GCSC Review Procedure and updates on Old Business items, specifically the Ordinance Amendment and Walk Signal Improvements. The Ordinance Amendment, which passed the Ordinance Committee, is proceeding to the City Council for final passage in January. Discussions on Walk Signal Improvements focused on the Empire & Weybosset Intersection, noting that pedestrian recall was removed when LPI was installed, potentially leading to noncompliance and unsafe crossings. New Business items included project updates for the Woonasquatucket Greenway construction, the Waterplace Park Resiliency RAISE bid, and the Safe Streets for All RFQ. Announcements also covered upcoming expirations for Council and Mayoral appointees.