Susan DiMasi

The council conducted a closed executive session regarding misconduct allegations before reconvening for the regular session. Key agenda items included the granting of various victualling and holiday sales licenses, authorization of a contract for card access installation at the Community Learning Center, and tax abatements. The council approved a three-year memorandum of understanding for senior center programming with the Town of Narragansett, authorized a roof replacement project for the library, and denied an order of notice for a public hearing concerning the abandonment of a portion of Green Hill Avenue. Furthermore, the council discussed a proposed war monument, reviewed the Town Manager's reports on façade improvements and storm management, and held a public hearing to adopt the Capital Improvement Program for fiscal years 2026-2031, including discussions on Fair Share Development Fees.

The commission held a joint work session with the Planning Board to review and discuss the revised draft form-based code zoning amendments for the Old Tower Hill Road Neighborhood Project. The discussion involved the project's development consultant, Pamela King of Able City East, regarding the new code requirements.

The Commission discussed tree stewardship resources, town ordinance amendments, and the Tree City USA accreditation. Staff was directed to initiate efforts regarding tree inventory software and general assistance. An update regarding the Old Tower Hill Road Project was noted as unavailable. Additionally, the commission reviewed a report from the Technical Review Committee and designated a duty member for the upcoming Technical Review Committee meeting.

The Board discussed the upcoming request for proposals for parking lot improvements at the Peace Dale Library and inquired about status updates regarding the Hazard Memorial Garden improvements. Library statistics regarding e-books and audiobooks were presented, prompting a discussion on future costs and potential checkout limitations. The Board reviewed project and grant updates, specifically focusing on parking lot expansion, the successful operation of the Peace Dale temporary annex, and the implementation of expanded hours at the Kingston and Robert Beverly Hale branches.

The commission held elections for the chair and vice chair positions. Discussions included the status of the Matunuck Beach Historic Resource Survey, ongoing improvements to Route 138 by RIDOT, and potential ordinance protections for stone walls. New business topics included a presentation on the GrowSmart Main Street Rhode Island program and the issuance of new educational postcards for the historic district. Staff provided updates on the Kingston Station Signal Tower, the Facade Improvement Program, and the redevelopment status of surplus town properties. Additional recurring topics covered coordination with the Affordable Housing Committee and updates regarding the U.S. 250th anniversary celebration.