you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you Good evening everyone. The time is now 7-0-5 and the date is March 3, 2025. And I would like to call the Girl Scouts of South Ganset forward to lead us in the Pledge of Allegiance. Please come forward to the mic at the center of the room and you can come right up well can we help somebody to turn the microphone on Maybe lower it. Perfect. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all. Great job, everyone. Applause. So before we get started, I would like to read a proclamation for Girl Scout Week for March 9 through 15th, 2025. Whereas Tuesday, March 12, 2025 marks the 113th anniversary of Girl Scouts of the USA, founded by Juliet Gordon-Low in 1912 in Savannah, Georgia, and whereas through Girl Scouting, girls grow and courage, confidence and character, and learn to make the world a better place. And whereas throughout its long and distinguished history, Girl Scouts, the pre-eminine organization for Girls, has inspired millions of girls and women with the highest ideals of character, conduct, and patriotism. And whereas Girl Scouting takes an active role in increasing the interest and skill levels of today's youth and math, science and technology, careers and to fulfill our country's economic needs. And whereas through participation in project undercover, a Council-wide community service project, every girl will learn and she can make a change for the better in her community. And whereas the Girl Scout cookie sale is the world's largest girl-led business, teaching financial literacy to girls of all ages. And whereas this year trailblazer, Juliet Gordon-Lowe is making her mark on American currency with a special edition quarter as part of the American Women Quarters Program, which celebrates the accomplishments and contributions made by women of the United States. And whereas the Girl Scouts of South Eastern New England, GSS and E, is one of 112 Girl Scout councils in the United States, including Narragansett as well as communities from all over Rhode Island, Pocketuck, Connecticut, and 13 communities in southeastern Massachusetts. And whereas the Girl Scouts will be celebrating 113 years of an American tradition with 1.7 million Girl Scouts and 750 adult members nationwide. Now, therefore, we, the town council of the town of Narragansett, do hereby proclaim the week of March 9 through 15, 2025 as Girl Scout Week in the town of Narragansett and urge our citizens to support Girl Scouts and their endeavors. Witness my hand in the official seal of the Town of Narragansett County of Washington State of Rhode Island this third day of March 2025. Congratulations. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. You're doing well. Thank you. I'm going to ask you to come up and say hello to the Okay, no one else? Thank you. Thank you. Thank you. Who's cooking tonight? Thank you so much for these wonderful treats. Next on the agenda is my. Next on the agenda, we have a very special night plan ahead of us. Once a year we recognize seven individuals in our community as recipients of nights of the rocking hem Arch. And if you'll bear with me, I'm actually going to come down there to present these awards. Two seven outstanding individuals. Test. Hey, great job. This is great. No technical difficulties yet. So just as a recognition of what the Knights of the Rocking Ham Arch Award is, I will read off the resolution that was signed on June 20, 1977. It reads, whereas the town of Narragance, it has been and is blessed with many citizen volunteers who have greatly contributed to the welfare of the town, and whereas said volunteers have volunteers make possible a high quality of life for all citizens, and whereas the untiring efforts of these volunteers deserve recognition by the community they serve. Now therefore be it resolved that the Knights of the Rockingham Arch is here by established in a committee to select the recipients shall be composed of the following people. One member of the town council, one member of the school committee, the chairperson of the Republican town committee, the chairperson of the Democratic town committee, the town clerk and the director of parks and recreation. Said committee shall at the first town council meeting in January, we're a little late on that, make public the names of those selected as knights. Therefore I will read to you our nominees and recipients for the award of Knights of the Rockingham Arch. So the first recipient we have to recognize is the Honorable James Sheridan. James Jim or Uncle Jim, as anyone who knew him, called him, was a staple in the town of Narragansett. After he attended Yale University and the University of Virginia Law School, he worked as an attorney in Manhattan and Los Angeles. His professional journey finally brought him home to Narragansett, Rhode Island, where he opened his own law practice. Here he knew he could make a difference and what a difference he made. Jim devoted himself, his intellect and his talents to helping family friends and town residents. Jim was humble, kind, generous, humorous and happy to help. He would never turn anyone away regardless of their ability or inability to pay for his legal prowess. Many who knew Jim and sought his help soon became his friend. Jim or Judge Jimmy, as he was lovingly referred to, further went on to service the Narragance of Community as probate judge. Jim proudly served as probate judge for the town for 22 years until his untimely passing in 2022. He was a brilliant mind on and off the bench and a champion for fairness, justice, and the underdog. He had a wealth of knowledge and he graciously shared that with all. He touched so many lives within his Narragance of Community and Beyond. He was a proud, loyal, and humble servant of the town and its people. He stood for what was good, fair, and just in the world. He shined brightly and his light continues to shine today. Jim's family would sincerely like to thank the committee and the town council for recognizing Jim with his distinctly Narragance of Honor. It is my honor and our deepest gratitude to congratulate and award the honorable James Sheridan with the night of the Rockingham Arch. So please, I think we have some of his family present. Please come forward. Applause. And what we've done this year is we have put together a plaque for each of the recipients in recognition for embracing the philosophy of total community service we recognize the honorable James Shardin. We do also have a few other members of the Knights of the Rockingham Arch nomination committee here. So I'd like to invite forward the Republican town committee chair, Mr. Anthony D'Alyna, to read off the next two award recipients. Thank you, Alex. The next recipient is Dr. Albert Alba. Dr. Al Alba is a dedicated educator advocate and a lifelong supporter of the Narragansett community. His commitment to education and public service has left a lasting impact both within Rhode Island and here in Narragansi. Dr. Al began his career as an engineer after earning his degree back in 1979. However, his passion for teaching led him back to school where he obtained his certificate. In secondary mathematics, he later earned master's ed degree in educational administration and a PhD. He holds life certification, secondary mathematics, and an educational administration certificate from the State of Rhode Island. For over 35 years, Dr. Alba has served as an educator for the State of Rhode Island, sharing his expertise in dedication with countless students. His contributions were recognized in 2014 when he was awarded the prestigious John J. Moore and Award from the RI Department of Corrections. He has been an active member of the Corrections Education Association presenting at both state and national conferences. Dr. Alba's passion for civic engagement was inspired by his father, Albert Alba, who regularly attended the town council meetings to advocate for the betterment of Narragansett. Following in his father's footsteps, Dr. Alba continues bringing intentions to the issues that matter most to the community. We thank Dr. Alba for his years of service, advocacy, and dedication to Narragansett, and we are honored to recognize his contributions. Thank you, Dr. Alba. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Thank you so much. Thank you very much. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank Next we have David Stenmark. David Stenmark was a dedicated leader, a visionary and a pillar of the Barnett Shores community. His passion for improving Barnett Shores was evident in his tireless efforts to enhance the quality of life for residents through his leadership, he championed projects that would benefit the community for generations to come. One of David's most notable contributions was the Barnett Walkway Project, which addressed the critical pedestrian traffic issues and approved safety for all. His commitment to preserving the natural beauty of Bonnet shores was exemplified through his role as Chair of the Land Trust. Under his leadership, the community successfully acquired a Westglob bond and surrounding land, ensuring protection of its vital natural resources for generations to come. David's dedication went beyond his official role. He was a friend, a mentor, an advocate for residence, whether through his thoughtful guidance, his willingness to lead a lending hand, or his constant pursuit of meaningful improvements, David left a lasting mark on the Bonnet Shores community. His legacy is one of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment to his community. As we reflect on his remarkable contributions, we honor his memory and express our deepest gratitude for all he has done. Bonnet Shores is a better place because of David, Stenmark, and his impact will never be forgotten. Accepting the award is his loving wife, Casey Montenari. It is our great privilege to bestow Casey Montenari with the honor as a night of the Rockingham Arch. Casey is not only the proud owner of the bike stop restaurant, but also a tireless advocate for the well-being of her fellow residents. For years she has worked behind the scenes using her position and influence to lift up those around her. Whether it is through her generous food donations, her unwavering support for residents in need, or her leadership in the nonprofit sector, Casey has truly embodied the spirit of service. Her nonprofit, Gantzit Giving, which she founded to fundraise for South County and narrow Gantzit residents in need, stands as a testament to her dedication of working together to make a difference. But Casey's commitment does not stop there. As a business owner, she has always put her community first, providing a welcoming space for neighbors to gather and supporting local initiatives at every turn. Casey's work is not just about charity. It's about building connections and creating a stronger, more resilient community. Whether through organizing events, providing meals to those facing difficult times or simply offering a listening ear, Casey has always been there for those who need her. Her efforts have not only provided tangible support, but they have also inspired others to give back and contribute in their own ways. This award is a reflection of the positive impact Casey has had on Narragansett, a place she calls home with her family. It is a recognition of her tireless dedication, her unwavering generosity, and her commitment to making our town a better place for everyone. Casey, you are a true embodiment of the values that this award represents. You have set a remarkable example for us all, and we are proud to celebrate you today. Congratulations. I don't know if she's present, she's probably working, but she definitely deserves a round of applause. The next recipient really doesn't need any introduction, The next recipient really doesn't need any introduction, but I will do so anyway. The next recipient is Thomas Tessatori. Tom Tessatori's lifelong dedication to basketball and his community stands out as a remarkable story of mentorship and service. Growing up in North Providence, Tom's passion for sports and youth development became evident early on. His founding of the men's basketball league on Boone Street in 1980 marked the beginning of a legacy in sports programming. Even after stepping away for a few years, Tom's return to full-time work with the Narragansett Parks and Recreation Department further solidified his influence. His longstanding role as the coach of the Pierre Middle School Boys Basketball team speaks volumes about his commitment to shaping young athletes. Beyond coaching, his instrumental work and expanding recreational opportunities for the town's residents highlights his impact. Despite retiring, Tom's involvement never wavered. His continued dedication through programs like the Bradford Trap Basketball Program and the Adult Men's Basketball Leagues showcases his enduring passion. Known for his generosity, Tom often went beyond coaching, offering transportation meals and guidance to the children he mentored. His presence at local restaurants, sharing meals and basketball conversations reflects the strong bonds he builds with his players. Tom Tessatori's story is a testament to a life devoted to community, sports, and the betterment of others. It is our honor to award Tom Tessitori with the 8th Night of the Rockingham Arch. We can nominate up to seven so we didn't want to leave any number out. This was a very competitive year, by the way. We had a lot that we wanted to award. So we have two more. The next recipient is Kate Vivian. Kate Vivian's life was one filled with music, creativity, and community. As the longtime event coordinator at the Towers, she played a pivotal role in transforming the historic space into a vibrant hub for weddings, concerts, and cultural events. Her journey to Sohn to Stown followed chapters spent in Paris and New York City. York it was a personal milestone, her wedding to her third husband, David Vivian, at the towers, that sparked her passion for turning the venue into a beloved gathering space. Kate's deep love for music traced back to her roots in rural North Carolina, where family jam sessions filled the living room. At the towers she curated countless musical events, championing both local talent and emerging Louisiana bands. Her hospitality extended beyond booking performances. She often provided lodging for musicians in her garage apartment or a range stays with neighbors. Beyond her work at the towers, Kate was a dedicated supporter of the arts, history, and her local community, contributing significantly to the Willet Free Library. Her friendship with Shirley Eastham, then event coordinator at Kinney Bungalo, blossomed when Shirley was tasked with modeling Kinney's events after the tower's success. Their bond formed in 2004 highlighted Kate's generous spirit and collaborative nature. Kate's vibrant approach to life was encapsulated by her motto, where not here for a long time, we're here for a good time. Her legacy continues to resonate, though through her music, memories and community connections she fostered. Kate Vivian passed away on October 9th, 2017, leaving an enduring impact on those who knew her and the spaces she helped transform. It is our honor to award Kate Vivian with the Knight of the Rockingham Arch. Thank you. I would like to invite up my former colleague on a school committee, Ms. Diane Nobles, who will read our final award. Welcomeing Smile, a kind word, boundless energy, and dedication to her volunteer projects are just some of the outstanding qualities, which entered into the decision to elect Shirley Eastham a Knight of the Rockingham Merch. Prior to moving to Narragansett in 1978, Shirley had a pioneering and distinguished career as an administrative manager at IBM in Boston, Massachusetts. She served as president of the company's quarter century club and devoted four years as a loaned executive to the United Way. Upon relocating to Narragansett, Shirley brought her wealth of talent and level of local history to begin engaging into our town's causes and activities. She served as the president of the Narragansett Historical Society for the last 10 years of her life, leading the fundraising effort and renovation of the Windmill Building on Clark Road to create a permanent home for the society. NHS membership grew and received its charitable organization status under her leadership. Prior to her efforts on behalf of the Narragansett Historical Society, Shirley served as the event coordinator at the Kinney Bungalow from 2004 to 2009 and was an active member of the Narragansett Towers Committee. In addition, she was a board member of the Narragansett Land Conservancy Trust from 2010 to 2014. With her focus upon preserving our local history, she encouraged our town to expand its existing historic districts and to create new ones. In 2017, she was quoted as saying, these preserved districts will help with keeping our history, our charm, and our heritage. Surely remained an active working volunteer until the day of her passing on January 27th, 2022. It's a well-deserved honor to name Shirley in the night of the rocking hand march. Thank you. Thank you so much. We will send the plaque and speech to her family. And at this time, I just want to give another round of applause to all of these well-deserved recipients of the Knights of the Rockingham Arch. Congratulations, everyone. And at this time, we'll have a brief recess so that anyone who attended, who doesn't care to stay for the remainder of this important meeting, can exit. Thank you. you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you Thank you. Thank you, everybody. Thank you, everyone. Well, since the next item on the agenda is the town managers update, maybe I should have looked up first to see that he was ready. So I'll just wait. I'll just wait. Mr. Tierney, when you're ready. Sorry about that. I should have looked up. Good evening members of the Council and public here and those of you at home. A few updates for the week as the council knows the capital improvement plan has been submitted to the town council as of Friday and remember as I stated it is not a strict budget it is a plan which will be continuously under review until such time as the final budget is submitted to the town council. You'll see on the agenda tonight there were two vacancies in the wastewater department, due to resignations of employees who've moved on for other employment. The PD continues to recruit for the vacancies that they currently have, and you may have heard about the F horn at US Coast Guard Point Judith. Has had a minor malfunction and has been going off like it's foggy all the time. The Coast Guard is working on it. I spoke to them Friday, and then a few articles made the local papers about it, but they are working on it and they're staying on top of it. And I would also like to publicly thank the Grills Scouts of South Gansett and all the recipients of the Knights of the Rockingham Arch. And on Tuesday night, the town council is sponsoring event for the generic answered community participation discussion on short term rentals. It'll be facilitated by the center of mediation and collaboration of Rhode Island. It's a group that specializes in in mediating and collaborating with people on different topics. It's presented by the town council, media in facilitated by the the Center ofiation. It'll be Tuesday tomorrow, March 4th, at 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Narragansk community center. Everyone's invited, and from the discussions we've had amongst us, we're hoping that we know everybody has a different opinion, different thought, different view on it, and a group of everyone together and sharing and compiling their concerns and myself and my staff have been compiling any of the emails that we receive relative to that from citizens who say they can't make the event and we're gonna compile them into a document so that each council member will have a full list of all the input that we've had prior to the meeting and then we'll wait a couple of weeks if we get any more and submit them to the council. That's it. Thank you. Thank you. Next item on the agenda is there a motion to approve the minutes of the February 3rd 2025 regular meeting Motion to approve. Second. Any discussion? All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. Next item on the agenda is open forum. What anyone has anyone signed up to speak during open forum? Yes, Stephanie Patton. Please come forward and state your name and address please. As a reminder that to please speak only on topics, not on the meeting agenda agenda three minute time limit per speaker subject matter and be orderly and respectful Thank you. My name is Stephanie Patton my address is 45 C-Port Drive. Thank you for allowing us to speak briefly. I'm joined tonight by my co-president Kim LaBarbara Megan Pavone and Missy Lemine. Together we're part of the current board of the Narragansett Elementary School PTO. On behalf of our organization, I'd like to take a moment to express our sincere gratitude to this incredible community for the overwhelming generosity, surrounding our major fundraiser last spring, Beach Blanket Biting. Because of your support, we are in the final stages of oratorying horizontal climbing wall that will soon be installed in the NES gym, a portable sound system for events and assemblies, and new art display boards to showcase our students' masterpieces. But we're not stopping there. Today we officially officially kicked off a readathon with the exciting goal of bringing a book-bending machine to our school. This is something our students are eagerly anticipating, and we've seen how successful this initiative has been in other schools across Rhode Island, as well as nationally. It's a special way to foster a love of reading and reward students for their hard work. Our school may be small, but we are mighty. As parents and members of this community, we continue to work together to bring wonderful opportunities to our students. Your support is truly making a difference in their lives. Thank you and we look forward to continuing this journey with all of you. Thank you so much. Thank you. Thank you. Applause. Kristen Eldridge. I'm going to wait for the phone call on the internet. Absolutely. And that is all that's on the list. Oh, OK. Dr. Alba. Dr. Alaba, 24 Egos Ness Terrace. I want to thank you all for the award that was given to me and many others tonight. I would have forever grateful for your service. And I love what the town manager said today that we're going to work together collectively. You know put our minds together I think that's a wonderful thing. We have a great team. I love to see that the photos of Jason Collinese is beautiful family Donna Vignale her beautiful grandchildren and family members and that means a lot to me so much. And then I hear the testimony where they want to work. We all want to work together for family programs, possibly a playground, and other such recreational programs. So I think this will be a wonderful thing. And I think this is definitely, you know, bipartisan issue, working with families, bringing families here, working collectively. And I think, you know, you know, through the grace of God we'll be able to make this happen. I do want to thank God for blessing me, for living in their against it, for having my father, who was a mentor to me, with regards to his advocacy, and he'll always be in my heart. And I've been blessed to happen for 94 years and eight months. And we have to all be thankful for our family members. So I hope that all of you can reach out to your children, your loved ones, your spouses, significant others, your parents, give them a hug. Tell them that you love them. I think that's so important, every day is precious. We saw the children who died in parish in their playing accident. No day is a guarantee for any of us. You know, and we have to thank God every day for all of our blessings. And I just wanna thank you all. Please keep me in your prayers, keep my family in your prayers, and we'll pray for all of you. Thank you. Absolutely. Thank you. But anyone else like to speak? Yes, please come forward and state your name and address. Yeah, John Hanley, 10-Rolle and a strive. Two things tonight for Open Forum. Because it was raised two weeks ago in high school, I will be clear. I am not a member of the Narragansett Residence Association. In much of your surprise, I am not a member of the Narragansett 2100. I'm probably no different from most people in this town, striving for a fair and balanced quality of life. And number two, to finish what I started two weeks ago. It's only been about three months since you were elected. But already, what have you done? Behind closed doors, you rescinded without explanation, a zoning ordinance violation citation by one of the council members. You actually violated your oath of office by doing this. You then tried very hard not to let any details get to the public by stonewalling those who inquired into this matter. You then refuse to even acknowledge the five separate emails I sent to you looking for answers. This Council ran for office promising transparency, collaboration, communication, and taking all stakeholder views into account. You certainly know how to talk to talk, but you don't walk the walk. It's only been three months, but something smells and there against it. Thank you. Mr.'t know if Mr. Durkin intends on recusing himself or not. He should through public sources. I've compiled a list we've been asking and I don't know if this has been disclosed somewhere else I couldn't find it. I've got a list of all the properties that Mr. Durkin owns. He owns about 137 bedrooms and calculated about $1.2 million in annual revenue and I'm happy to leave this with the clerk and leave you guys copies of this. I don't begrudge anybody's success at all. People work hard to get there. But the question is, should that person with 43 vacant lots that will be really impacted by a zoning decision, be appointing people on the zoning board? And we heard all about this transparency that my neighbor Mr. Henley talked about. And you guys are moving very quickly to undo everything that passed councils, not just the last one, but there was a consensus about pumping the brakes on the rentals in this town. And what it feels like is that there's an agenda for developers. In fact, we've got a developer that's probably going to get appointed to the planning board tonight. And I have to give unbelievable spin that was actually going to be a good thing to have an outspoken developer who's really trashed the residents of this town and told us to move out if we don't like it. So I would hope Mr. Durkin to recuse yourself from the vote tonight on the planning board. I don't think you will. And I'm gonna just drop these off to show not only the properties and the projections, but where I got my sources from. Thank you very much. Thank you. Anyone else like to speak? Thank you. Sorry. Would anyone else like to speak for open form? Seeing none. Next, we're on to consent agenda. Is there a motion to approve as presented? Item C1, C2, C3 of the consent agenda. Motion to approve, C1 through C3. Second. Any discussion? All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes, 5,0. Next on to new business is from the engineering department. Is there a motion to approve the filling of two vacancies within the wastewater division due to resignation? Motion to approve. Discussion. Whoops. Okay. So do we have any nominees? No. Is this just an automatic appointment? This is the town manager. This is the town manager. I'm sorry. These are unions. There's a lot on this agenda. These are union positions. Thank you. I'm sorry. We're just approving. We don't leave every place here. Sorry. I didn't put my glasses on. Thank you. Would anyone from the council have any comments, questions? Nope. Anyone from the public? Seeing none? All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. Onto Parks and Recreation Department. Is there a motion to approve the 2025 Middle Bridge Marina rental slip rates at $800 per full slip and $600 for a side slip for the 2025 season? Motion to approve. Second. Discussion. Anyone from the council have any questions or comments? I'm sure there's none available, right? I was going to ask is there a waiting list? There's 69 resident taxpayers that are waiting on the list. And we have 34 full slips and two side slips with an increase of $50 back in 2023 and the Lane Conservatory supports this one. Maybe we should expand that, Marina. Let me know. How long is the waiting list? Never what is the turn? No, I know that's not what I mean. I mean, how long does that person who's number 68 have to wait too long? If I was on the list, I'd probably be in quins before I got to duck. Thank you. That's unfortunate. OK. Any other questions or comments? Anyone from the town? Seeing none? All those in favor? Hi. Any passes 5 0 Next is there a motion to approve a three-year volleyball league agreement with Newport volleyball club 270 Bellview Ave Sweet 240 new Portward Islands 02842 at the town beach and Authorize the town manager to sign the agreement after review by the town solicitor. Motion to approve. Second. Discussion. Does anyone have any questions or comments? I will just make one comment that when I worked at the Narragansett town beach those years ago that I was always jealous of this incredible league that was playing on the beach and I wanted to jump in and only to find out that I couldn't. But this is a great tradition that's been going on for many years and I'm happy to see it continue. Here's a question. What makes do they play? Because it's going to be done in conjunction with the food trucks. I think it does. It's Wednesday evenings, correct? Look, my memory is great. This one time. Sorry, what was that, Mr. Colonies? I'm sorry, I'm sorry, I'm sorry. Okay. Does anyone from the public have any questions or comments? Seeing none? All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes, five, zero. Next. Is there a motion, sorry, on to the town clerk? Is there a motion to appoint one Democrat, alternate member, and one Republican, alternate member to the Board of Canvacers for a two-year term set to expire on March 1, 2027? Motion to approve Melissa Crawford as a Democratic member. There's a motion on the floor to appoint Melissa Crawford to the Democratic Alternative C. Is there a second? Second. Any discussion? All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. And do we have any recommendations on the appointment to the Republican alternative seat? I would like to make a motion to appoint Dave Matrulo to be the Republican alternate member. Second. Have you had any conversations? No. I've known Dave Matrulo for over two decades at this point In that time, I've known to be a trustworthy, just, and fair man. He performed his duties admirably during the primary and election. I saw him personally at both St. Veronica's and Pierre Middle School in the execution of his duties. Okay. So there's a first and second on the floor. Are there any other nominations? Seeing none When anyone from the public wish to speak Seeing none all those in favor. I and I oppose motion passes 5 0 Next is there a motion to appoint two individuals to the Coastal Access Improvement Committee's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's approval of the Council's chair of the Coastal Access Committee had a question regarding a quorum moving forward. I just want to make sure that there was, was that resolved that we were able to move forward with us? Yes. Okay. Thank you. So with that being said, does anyone have any recommendations on names that they would like to nominate? I'd like to go ahead, Jason. I'd like to recommend Jerome Rao. Second. Are there any other, actually, want to do this one at a time? Let's do this one at a time. He's the Marine Manager at Metatuxet Improvement Association. He's a grant writer. He's worked for government before. He's highly passionate about coastal access. Him and his whole family. He's good guy. This also does come as one of the recommended. This member was recommended by more than one individuals of the Coastal Access Committee, so I think this individual would make a great asset to the committee. So that being said does anyone have any comments on Jerome Rao? No, any other questions comments on the council? Seeing none all those in favor. Hi any opposed motion passes 5 0 Second is there any motion to appoint an additional individual to the the coastal access committee motion to a point Richard right second discussion I Richard right I know I'm for every is a fisherman he was in point Judith very involved with coastal access taking care of properties along the coast. He makes, he makes lures. He's just that kind of guy, you know, so he'd be perfect for that position. Any other comments on this nomination? Prior president of the Narragansett Lions Club in a fisherman for a longer than I've been alive. There's anyone who will work to preserve coastal access rights. It's Richard. This individual also does come as a recommended appointment by the chair of the Coastal Access Committee. And as already addressed, he is a well-known surfcaster and coastal access advocate. So with that being said, are there any comments from the residents seeing none? Any other questions, comments from the council? Seeing none? All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. And do we need to approve Mark Brady just to be clear? Yes, please. Just to confirm the you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. I have a question for you. know, in the short amount of time that I've worked with Mark on the Coastal Access Committee, I think he's been a real tremendous asset to the committee and he's already educated me and shared his expertise on multiple facets, not only on the committee, but on other areas as well. So I strongly recommend we reappoint them. Are there any other comments? Anyone from the town? Seeing none, all those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. Next, is there a motion to appoint one member to the planning board for a five-year term set to expire on November 1st, 2020. I'd like to make a motion to nominate Steve D. Simone for the position of planning board. Second discussion. Could you please elaborate on this nomination? I either want to be. Go ahead. No, go ahead,ansett. Almost his entire life. He truly cares about the town. He cares about planning and is a he's a builder and I believe we interviewed him earlier and he was articulate. He knew all the comprehensive plans. He knew everything that I felt very, very comfortable in making this nomination. Any other comments, Mr. Durkin? No. Councillors, colonies, or are we all day any comments? No. I will just reiterate that we did extend the invite out to all applicants to the planning board. Three did verbally communicate that they were going to be present for the interviews that were held at 5.30 and two of the individuals, Melissa Colatides and Jerry Brunetto were not present. So the town council only had the opportunity to interview Mr. DeSimon. So with that being said, are there any other nominations? Hearing none, we will close the nominations and open up comment to the public. Would anyone from the public wish to come up to speak? Please come forward. I will just do it in order. I see hands. Please state your name and address. Yes. Will think the opportunity for Stephen D. Simone to be on the planning board is unique opportunity for the town to have a local lifelong resident with his breadth of knowledge from being a builder from a licensed septic installer to a licensed realtor is a great asset to the town to have his experience and his love of Narragansett on the board. So I highly recommend your of you is simply neighbors who wish to preserve the residential quality of their neighborhoods. And on every half, I would like to say that I think Mr. D. Simone is unsuited and unqualified to serve on the planning board based on his prior public comments at this microphone, which were unabashedly in support of landlords and increases in mental properties at the expensive neighborhoods and residents. and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the community and the with the old shoes and nothing but the truth. This is fun. I'm sorry. Paul's on furlough seven, win would circle. These were the old shoes and nothing but the shoes. This is what Mr. Stoflough was referencing. This is what Mr. Stoflough was referencing. This is what Mr. Stoflough was referencing. This is what Mr. Stoflough was referencing. Excuse me. We can't allow that unless you know you get a... We can reference the time and the day of the meeting. We can't allow any comment from a phone. Of course you can't. Of course you can allow, it's my free speech. It's your free speech, but we don't know. We have no evidence to show who is on that. You don't need evidence. You can name the day and time and everyone can refer to it. Are you looking for an open meeting violation? I'm not going to engage in the conversation. Worked in private industry? I just would like to consult with a soundslester. Is this a lot? I'm not going to use a bunch of numbers. You're correct. If you want to know what the code goes by 25 authorization, Mr. Zonfield, to play another tape or video at this stage. It's his open form for his comment, not anybody else's or a video or an audio. Thank you. So please feel free to continue if you're you yourself will speak but we cannot allow that to continue. Well that's very disappointing. In that audio I'm surprised you guys aren't afraid of transparency. Talk about transparency. In that audio, Mr. D. Simone tells us to sell our houses if we don't like it. If we don't like living in arrogance. And I'm really shocked that you guys, this was precedent was set before. I believe Mr. Calhane, you were the solicitor. I didn't mind when other people came up. I'll have to double check. I don't know that for sure. But talk about stifling speech. Free speech. Thank you. I just want to remind the council members that there is no time limit to speak on agenda items. Any, please come forward. Sorry. Thank you. Please state your name and address. Hi, Kristen Eldridge, 57 piping plover drive. Good evening, members of the town council. I'm here to speak in support of Steve D. Simone's appointment to the planning board. I had the privilege of working with Steve when I was in the process of purchasing an affordable condo for me and my children. Thanks to Steve's professionalism, expertise and dedication, I was able to secure a home that allows my family and I to continue living in South County. Without people like Steve, many families would struggle to find housing here, and we would lose the sense of community that makes this area so special. Steve's deep understanding of the local real estate market and his commitment to helping families secure homes gives him the insight needed to serve effectively on the planning board. His work ensures that communities continue to thrive and that more families can call self-counting home. I strongly believe that Steve's experience and passion for our community make him an ideal candidate for the planning board. Thank you for your consideration. Thank you. Would anyone else care to comment? Yes, please come forward. Mr. Pew. And please say your name in Address in case there's anyone here who doesn't know who you are. Jesse Pew, 40 Birchwood Drive, Narragansett. I just wanted to take a second to thank Jerry Burn the land trust. I'm known him a while. I think a lot of you have as well. Very civic-minded person. I know he has volunteered his time to the town because he wants to contribute. And I've never really thought of him as an ideologue or a person who pushes any sort of agenda. He's always done what he thought was the right call because it fell in line with the comprehensive plan. Not because he wanted something where he had a specific opinion, it was because he followed what you're supposed to do in the planning board, which is not having an agenda or be partial or be bias. But again, really thanks, Jerry, for the work that you've done. It is unfortunate that he wasn't given the opportunity to serve his full second term. That is pretty much kind of common practice within the town. It's very rare that someone doesn't, isn't allowed that opportunity to finish up their, um, their two terms. I think one of the reasons why we've always followed that as a town is because it detours people from wanting to serve. Um, if they know that they're not going to be given that opportunity or they're going to be passed up when they put in all that work and not given the chance to do really the full work and finish a lot the projects that they're working on. So I'm hoping that tradition continues in other cases. It looks like it might not tonight, but thank you all and thanks again, Jerry, for your time. Thank you. Anyone else? Yes, please come forward. Hi, J'Ala there is Sarah so to avenue. I just want to say I agree completely with I'm Jesse. Jerbernano cannot be here tonight but we don't know for sure. I was here for the interviews and at the end of the first interview, the Council President asks Town Clerk if the other two applicants or people to be interviewed had responded that they were coming. And the answer was yes. We have no idea. Maybe something bad happened to either of them that they couldn't be here. So I asked that you do not vote tonight. Wait to the next meeting. We had the land trust, for example, appointees waited at least three meetings to a point where you have two people, one who's incredibly qualified and Jerry did so much good for our planning board. So please give him the opportunity to come and interview it. You owe him at least that. Thank you. Anyone else from, yes, Dr. Eber? I think both gentlemen are highly qualified. Jerry has proven as a proven track record is Jesse said in following our comprehensive plan. I believe he you know tries to follow along what is best for the town, non-potison, non-biased. And as Jill mentioned, I don't know why Jerry did not respond back. I don't know if something happened, but unless time is of the essence, and about as to be done today, maybe it might be best if we could just wait to see if we could reach out to Jerry to see what the status is. I like I said, I think both candidates are qualified. I do feel that Jerry has dedicated many years working for the town as a formal council president Jesse Pugh mentioned but in any event that's what I like to share with all of you thank you. Thank you. But anyone else scared a comment? Take your time. I guess I won't be Doing the road race this year. George's running hand, 4060 show road now against Rhode Island. I just want to say a few words in support of Mr. D. Simone. I've known Steven since he was a young man. It was a grandfather, the honorable, herbedeese moan attorney general. But besides all that, you know, we grew up down here, played football right up the street. I think it's a good idea to have someone else with a different perspective that's actually been on this side of these boards. You know, someone who actually had you know boots on the ground and brings a different perspective to the rest of the board. And I think would be a perfect candidate for that. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else from the public wish to comment? Seeing none. Anyone from the council have any additional questions or comments? Or any reconsiderations? No. Not necessarily reconsidering, but I do just want to call out that during the interview Mr. DeSamone said that were there a conflict of interest to arise he would recuse himself and I think that speaks to the character of the individual that we'd be bringing on and hopefully might go a little bit of a ways to swatch some of the fears of further development and arrogance. Okay, I should conflict of interest. Let's just make sure we're speaking clearly into the mic. I know, sorry, I just wanna make it clear. Thank you. It's that goes for everyone, not just you. Any other questions, comments from the council? Seeing none, all those in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. Next item on the agenda. Is there, is, we're on to the town council. Is there a motion to create a subcommittee regarding Narragansett resident parking in town and nominate the two town council members to serve on the committee? So moved. Second. Discussion. Who's agenda item is this? So it's my name. Okay. So Jim and I were talking, Councillor Durkin and I were talking about parking. And we thought it would be a great idea. I love this agenda item. We thought it would be a great idea if residents, text-beings, year-round residents could park. Wherever they want to park in Narragansett, really. We would have to talk about it and probably have some restrictions, of course, but so that they don't fall under a lot of the parking regulations that we have in Narragansett. We would keep the same parking regulations for our visitors and friends from out of town, but we would love to have the opportunity to have a permit on their vehicle so that they can go and park in Narragansett. So I think it's a decent item and I'm excited to do the work. Jim, do you have any questions or comments? I think we have to appoint the ones that are, is a motion to just make sure you're talking to Mike. Yeah I am. But do you have to appoint the people before we talk or are we just so? No we can, well right now I would like to entertain the discussion as to what this committee, subcommittee is and why it is. And we're creating it. So me and Jason, we're talking, Donna and Bobie can't have three. And the idea of people, you know, paying taxes on town roads and infrastructure and not being able to park in their town is not an uncommon problem. And as I find out, Wesley has programs, Newport has programs. I was in Jupiter Florida last week, and I was sitting with someone, and they have the right to park anywhere in Jupiter Florida. So it's not uncommon, I think it's something where we'll investigate it and hopefully we can come up with a plan. We're going to work with the town manager, please department, highway department, municipal court to come up with this strategy and come back and report to you guys. Okay. Would you also be looking into just the issue of the lack of parking in town in general? I know that's not word of that way, but maybe we'd have to separate. I'm on a subcommittee. We're on me and Donna on a subcommittee for the trolley and the shuttle now. Oh, okay. And we've met three times. Yeah. Yeah. So we're re-creating that shuttle program. Just make sure in your discussions with the trolley program and this project that they don't overlap, that there's any conflict there. Well, I just want to make sure that's very clear. Yeah, we'll be careful of that. OK. So I would just like to say that I received numerous emails about parking. And I think this is a great idea to do the subcommittee and look into the possibility of what you talked about, Jason. I think a lot of residents have an issue with their need to be able to park and not being able to find parking. So I think this would be great for the residents and their gants. So I think setting this subcommittee is a great idea. And just to reiterate that you may come up with recommendations or to not actually move forward with the project based on your findings. Is that correct? Yes, sure. Well, I'm very interested in and look forward to hearing how this committee develops. So with that said, are there any nominations for this subcommittee? I nominate Councilman Durkin and Councilman Colonies to be subcommittee looking into parking. And Councillor Tory, I'll do second that. I do second that motion. Okay, thank you. So with that being said, I don't have any additional questions or comments. There's a motion on the floor to appoint Jim Durkin and Jason Colonies to that committee. Any questions or comments from the public? Yes, Dr. Alalba, 24 Eagles Nest Terrace. I think this is a fantastic idea. And I afford a consul in Dirkin and colonies off leading the way on this. As you know, the last town council, I had a fight against proposed time limited signage on Ocean Road. And all of the local businesses and many of the residents were up in arms. So I had to go to the, I had actually go to the capital three times and argue the case. And thank God, Narragantza Avenue in Ocean Road, no longer has time limited signage, the proposed time limit signage. In fact, they were putting it up even in disregard of the ruling to not have it put up. So I think this is a great idea. And I think this here will be a benefit for all of our residents. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else? Care to comment? Yes, please for it. Dennis Lynch, 22 Central Street. it could be a- I think it's a good idea. Dennis Lynch, 22 Central Street. It could be a good idea. I think it's a lot to do with the implementation and the way in which compliance is used in it. here area of the street. This is really about a lot of different things, but certainly a big piece of this is accommodating people who'd like to be around the beach and beach season. And the pier impact will be greater than in other parts of town. So this isn't a benefit that's gonna be equally distributed around the town,, and the south, and et cetera, et cetera. I think the benefit, the value to other residents is going to be where is parking in least inventory, which is in the pier. So I really hope, and I'm not saying that I'm against it, I'm just saying I think like any plan it has to be carefully thought through and implemented. And I do appreciate the fact that in this recommendation it says that the council would seek stakeholders that would be on the subcommittee. And much like the, I think, important meeting you're having tomorrow night you're going to have people at the tables from both sides of the issue. So to the extent that the peer is going to be an area that's going to be the most impacted, I would hope that when you do select your subcommittee, and I don't think it's on the agenda tonight to select the stakeholders. When you do come to that point, I'm very hopeful that you will consider peer-area residents that could contribute to the conversation and contribute their points of view as well. So that's what I want to say. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else, 70 comments? Yes, please come forward. Yes, David bird 23 Perkins Avenue, Kansas. I had expected to speak and I really don't have a problem with having the committee. I do think though, recently we've had issues where variances were given for parking. 120 person, 126 person occupancy, a variance given for only half the spaces. No mention in the planning committee minutes or in the video, no mention in the zoning committee or the video or the town council that actually the oxency given after approval was 417. And therefore parking becomes 120 something cars rather than 46 spaces. And so this type of issue becomes how much variance are we going to make in policies as we look at something like this. Because if you don't follow town ordinance and you let more parking than the parking situation the peer becomes exaggerated beyond just people would like to park it becomes patrons from across the state in some cases. Just a question I have about kind of following procedures and be careful about variants that have impact on other decisions which sound pretty good. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else have any other comments? Seeing none? All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes 5-0. Next item on the agenda is item G-2. Is there a motion to introduce read, pass, and accept as a first reading, an ordinance, an amendment of chapter 14 article 17 solicitations, specifically section 14-601 hours. So moved. Second. Discussion. So this is about solicitation and soliciting the neighborhoods and allowing people are in the neighborhoods that are allowed to knock on doors from 9 o'clock in the morning until 8 p.m. I believe I would I'm proposing that we change that to end at dusk rather than 8 p.m. I know there's been an instance recently where someone was knocking out the door at like quarter to eight at night and I think a a lot of people, elderly people, families getting their kids in bed for school, especially in the winter months when it's darker. So I just think that this would help to adjust alignment with the seasonal daylight variations of time and account for the months in the winter time when it at that time. Yeah, I think it's great. I don't think they need Mr. Dirk and I knocking on your door at 730 at night, asking for your vote in the future. I think that's no. That would put too many people off. So that's a, that's I think it's a great idea. This is a safety issue. It's a well-being issue. It's caring about the residents issue. I think this is a great idea. I believe South Kingston might already do this as well. I think. And I think it's a great idea. Does anyone else have any comments or questions? My only hesitation with this is that dusk is subjective. There's no clear cutoff versus eight o'clock, which is a hard time. If it's true that South King's town has implemented something similar to this, I don't quite know what there's reads, but maybe a far as could reflect their verbiage. I think this does. It's pretty close, am I right? You could do like a half an hour before sunset, because sunset's a time on a certain day. I would be okay with that. Yeah. Well, I was thinking of the same thing. It's very subjective and argumentative. But I have no problem just using this as an example here. You know, it gets dark and not that anyone's knocking on doors in the middle of December. But you're looking at like 350 in the afternoon, possibly, or a 345, where solicitation stops. And some people work till 5, and I'm just wondering if it's job related or something along those lines. I think dusk is fine. I think it allows for the flexibility of interpretation, and I know we're going a little overboard on the interpretation here. But if you guys want to amend the motion to say 30 minutes before sunset, that's fine. Or you could just say sunset, and that is the time. Yeah, you could do that. We got there. And give the benefit of the Dell. Yeah. Would that work, Donna? That's fine. OK. I have no problem with that so would that work with you fine Okay, I would be motion to continue this no, it's a motion to amend motion to amend the motion to Sunset so moved Second yeah, thank you motion moved by by Councillor Tory all day seconded by Councillor McNally. Any other comments? Anyone from the public? Seeing none. All those in favor? Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes. 5-0. Last item on the regular. Schedule is there, is item G3? Is there a motion to refer the following proposed ordinance amendments of appendix A entitled zoning to the town clerk, the planning division and the planning board for review and recommendation? So moved. Second. discussion. This is being proposed proposed by Councillor Vicknell. Councillor Connys. Okay. Would you care to comment? Sure. So I put this on the agenda. Our solicit has been going through these ordinances and making recommendations for these changes. This is merely a recommendation to send these changes to the planning board so they can return them to us with recommendations. These changes are to streamline residents' requests for changes to their homes, make it easier for additions and construction. Align our ordinances with the state and address constituents issues that we met on the campaign trail. And while we were campaigning, we spoke with a large portion of the community and all of them, not all of them, but many of them raised these issues with us and they still raised these issues with me to this day. So that's why this is here. Do any other council members have any questions or comments? No, I think it's just referring them to the planning and just waiting for see what their recommendations to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to do that. We're going to have to discussed during hearings at the later time. This is going to be, you know, there will be hearings, maybe workshops with the planning board, but as procedure follows, we will send these recommendations off to the planning board, at which time when they come back to us in about 45 days time. That's correct. We will then have a hearing and review those all of that feedback. And at that time, we will have the public speak and comment. It will be well advertised to voice all feedback regarding all of these recommended changes as well as the feedback from the planning board. Just a question for our town solicitor. Do we need to schedule a town? I'm sorry. Do we need to schedule a hearing now or can we schedule that future agendas. It might make sense to do it that way. Does that work Sarah? It works for me. Okay, perfect. Does anyone from the public wish to comment on the referral of these amendments to the planning board? Yes, Mr. Ferrandi. Even Councilmembers, thank you. Stephen Ferrandi, 44, Sylvan Road. I'm a little bit confused with this. Not confused, but just like a little more transparency with what's happening here. On February 3rd, there was a motion to discuss a racked on providing direction to the council as it is slash the planning department also. Memories to the zoning owners including setbacks and planning board recommendations. Floor area ratio mixed use zoning, duplexes, two family, liquor license, special use permits. The top is a striped agenda. We're brought to the town council of Tensions for review. Request for the town council to discuss a plan review in these ordinance. Okay, that was February 3rd and that was Donna, McNally and Alex Menzies. Now we have this on a month later. And if you go through the blue sheets, it lists the old ordinance and the full blown amendment, what people are looking to do. So where was the discussion with the, if there was a discussion with the planning board, didn't happen between now and then. So, you know, why do we have all these new ordinances? And they're very, this is more like a re-road of the, rewrite of the total zoning code. There's approximately 12 items here in the code that are changing. Now, maybe some are mandatory, but there's definitely quite a few in here that are not mandatory changes. And how did that come about? The first one, 1099. That zoning ordinance is about. I don't, excuse me, Mr. Francia. I don't wanna get into the specifics of the recommendations that at that time it'll be during the hearing. If this is just about a referral to the planning board. I understand that. Okay. You know, all your details of your ordinances are in there. Right. And one is the bulk zoning to get rid of the bulk zoning completely. It's a complete line out. I mean, these were supposed to be talked about according to your instructions here. The planning board, I've talked to several members on the planning board. They didn't see this was coming. They didn't even see any of this before. They weren't even discussed with it. Neither was the planning department. They just arrived. So at some point, somebody made the decision to rewrite these ordinance. To write an ordinance that scratched out the bulk zoning. I want to know where that came That, if it came from your solicities completely, that's what I want to know. It just doesn't seem as very transparent from me, you know, in your instructions to talk about planning board recommendations, and now we've got two different people lining with it. So maybe I can just go down to listen, say the ones that are egregious, which is the bulk zoning. That's going going to be completely removed. Again I don't want to get into the back and forth about the specifics it is all listed under there in the supporting detail again we're only the copy and it's going to be lined out there's even one in here that puts alcohol in the residential zone. Right it's all all in here. Right. It is. It's all in there and the public. I just don't think you've been very transparent the way it's been done. You rewrote the ordinance, you rewrote the whole zoning code is what happened here. At all the residents, you don't understand what's happening. Heights up to 40 feet. Houses are going to be up to 40 feet high with four stories. bulk zoning is going to be going away. All the things that the other council's did for the quality life in this town are going to be all ripped apart by their ordinance. of 40 feet high with four stories, bulk zoning is gonna be going away. All the things that the other council's did for the quality life of this town gonna be all ripped apart by this ordinance. So let's just be awake up called to the residents. I can't speak on it because this was all preordained. You can see what's happening here. And Mr. Menzies, I disagree that I'm not able to speak on these. I'm not talking about everyone. is even re-rights in the complaint just completely rewritten. I'm surprised to be planning board these. I'm not talking about everyone. There's even rewrites in the complaint just completely rewritten. I'm surprised the planning board members are not all here, but this is not the way to run a government. This is not transparency. So now we gotta wait. They're already gonna be in place. Now we gotta argue it out once again. Fight it all out again. There's no need to get rid of these ordinances that will not be in the territory by the state, with the bulk zoning, the three college student ones should not be taken out. That one's in here to move it up to five college student. Why? The planning board never discuss this before. Use this the other way around. You take, you know, a lot of this comes from the planning board mostly. So obviously this seems like it was a rewrite by somebody on the council or someone's direction from the council and they didn't take into consideration the planning board and the planning department or the residents. Thank you. Thank you. Would anyone else from the publicers to speak? Yes, Mr.field again, knight Atlantic. And once again, he representing the town residents association on this matter. Again, just residents wanting to preserve livability in this town. and just to follow up on Steve's point, I think it is somewhat irresponsible to propose. So many sweeping changes to so many ordinances to the planning board to review all at once. And the two of you that have made these proposals, I mean, it does affect both zoning, wetlands, setbacks, special use permits, and certainly this moving the three students to five. I doubt if asked if either of you who propose these changes have done sufficient homework to have any view of what the likely result of them will be. Do you know what respect to changing 3 to 5, how many more students that will pack in the town? Probably not. I'm still thinking the town has that data anyway. So, though my point is that you're asking us to comment on the business of making these proposals to the planning board. And my comments are that they're too many and too sweeping, especially considering, as I said a couple of months ago, your relative newness and inexperience had governing the town. And with the exception of the one of you who has experience, he should be recused from a lot of this because of obvious conflicts of interest. So I would suggest that there's been a lot of thought and work and preparation put into the ordinance that are there and to propose so many sweeping changes and to put the planning more under that pressure, all that wants to come back on all of these things, you know, says to me that there is a movement behind it that is steep points out is less than a transparent and it's unclear. If you took one of them at a time, that would be totally understandable. But to propose the sweeping revabs you are and request that of the planning board seems to me to be grossly irresponsible. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else? All right, Dr. Alvin. Yes, Dr. Alaba, 24 Eagles Nest Terrace. I am a moderate in many ways. I didn't, The previous town council, I do felt that they were overreaching. We have someone wanting to have a bachelor party, a bachelor up party. You know, there was just too many red flags. And to me, it was unimpossible. Many of the things they were trying to overreach. And I am all in support. You know, Igihowsky would always say life, liberty, and justice for all. So I do respect the latitude of rental owners and people who have property who want to rent. I do feel, on the other hand, that the bulk zoning, and I think this was brought up under when Jesse Peer was president, you know, and it was given some thought where you would have some of these dorm style houses and these two and three bedroom neighborhoods. And, you know, I think we should definitely think twice before we get rid of that bulk zoning ordinance. I think there was a purpose for it. And I do agree that if you or I, we have a two-in-three-bedroom house, and then we saw this huge drum-sized house built in our neighborhoods that will be a major deterrent for, you know, a hot chip. It would be a hot chip for anyone. So I just want you to consider that when you do have this meeting, when you have this committee, that we don't go to extremes. That, you know, I think the bulk zoning had a purpose. I think it was a valid purpose. And I hope you consider maybe keeping that bulk zoning in place. Thank you. Thank you. Anyone else? Yes, please come forward. John Hanley, 10, Old and his drive. With regard to the suggested zoning changes, not only do I take issue with the agenda item report, but also particular issue with the zoning changes to chapter 1119 households and chapter 1109 students. The agenda item report rationale states that these proposals seek to create consistency between the town zoning ordinance and state laws Falsely implying that these changes are necessary to comply with state law in the case of chapter 1119. This is a bold face lie Two weeks ago there was a public hearing where chapter 1119 was to be amended to comply with state law. At a public hearing, these changes were reviewed and approved by the planning board before that public hearing. Tonight, you want to amend that amendment. Why? Did it not comply with what night regance of 2100 wants? Mr. Chapter 1109, the three student audits, it is not even clear that it needs a manning to comply with state law. If it does, the only change required is to allow one student per bedroom. It's very simple. If the Narragantza 200, oh, I'm sorry., I mean if the council believed in collaboration involving world stakeholders, you wouldn't be given almost half the town and middle finger on this issue. Where you have proposed effectively eliminates the three student ordinance completely, allows up to five students per house regardless if the house has two, three, or four bedrooms. Yup, transparency. Yup, collaboration. Yup, involve all stakeholders. word circle. Do hope I get to finish this time. I'm not using any recording devices. Town solicitor so you don't have to worry. So this seeker speaks of gross incompetence or corruption or maybe both. Because you should not be referring something to the planning board that we're supposed to be talking about tomorrow night. We're supposed to be sitting at the round tables and having a wonderful mediator tell us all about the changes that need to be made in the zoning. And we're gonna work it out. This is all pre-ordained. Tomorrow's workshop, you send this off to the planning board like you want to. Tomorrow's workshop is just gonna be cover for doing whatever the landlords want. And you know what? I mean, your guys are moving so fast to undo everything and make this town so resonant unfriendly. We should not be referring to the planning board. This is done under closed doors and the council that's supposed to be so transparent corresponding is really sticking it to the residents by jamming this down the planning board. Thank you. Anyone else in the public? Yes. Please come forward. Mr. President, permission to approach the clerk. Yes. Permission granted. Oops. So at the public workshop you had with the planning board you actually directed both the town planner and the planning board As well as a town solicitor to take a look at all of the zoning laws Six months of work and you wanted it back in a month the Information I just handed to the town clerk it is a document that came out on Friday from the League of Cities and you wanted it back in a month. The information I just handed to the town clerk is a document that came out on Friday from the League of Cities and Towns that talks about the legislative package and summary for housing for coming up this session. The reason I give it to you is that two of the sponsors are the same person who is our new town solicitor, new zoning solicitor. So when the folks who spoke for me spoke, wondering where did the zoning laws that are attached to our town agenda come into tonight, the only thing I can think of is that you directed Mr. Craven to come up with new zoning laws. You didn't include Ms. Sabo. You specifically asked for Ms. Sabo and the planning board to take a look at it, but instead, all of a sudden these new zoning laws appear tonight, and then you're gonna ask the planning board to take a look at it. I can't agree more. There's something wrong here. There's something going on behind closed doors. We saw it with a three student not being enforced, and now we're seeing it again. And as far as tomorrow night, with a short-term rental I agree with Mr. Zanthrallo. This is all pre-dardane. And that is one big open meeting violation. And it could be also ethics violations too. Two of you sat with the mediator. You had out of the part conversation with them. We don't know what happened. It didn't go out to bid. Your hand picked your friend Donna to run a workshop when you and Jason are the sponsors to get rid of the short term rental. Doesn't look good. Thank you. Anyone else? Mr. Pugh. Thank you, Jesse Pugh, Forty Birchwood Drive. I understand this is a referral to the planning board, so I do get your point about not getting into the specifics of the details, so I'll try my best to stick to that. But I do have some concerns on this process and some of these specific chapters that are being amended. So, there's some of the items within this agenda item. It does feel like you're really flooding the zone here in terms of packing this with so much that it's impossible to respond to all of them. for all of us and you definitely for the planning board as well, to be able to respond to this in any sort of timely manner, in any thorough manner. I do want to hone in on chapter 1100, bulk zoning. And I bring that up because it's being completely removed, like completely deleted from the ordinances. So this isn't really an amendment, it's just a removal of all of the definitions and the purpose of that section totally. Typically, at least from my experience, a town council would direct the planning board and staff to work on a issue that they have an interest in. So if you want to rethink maybe how bulk zoning, how they floor area ratio works, how short term rentals work, site coverage, if you want to kind of get some new direction or rethink that, you would really assign that or refer that to the planning board, where they work through it and they send you recommendations. What we see here is you telling them exactly what you want, which is to just remove it. I mean, how do you send or how do you even send a recommendation back to the planning board? You would respond no. I disagree. Because you've removed everything. So this council does, when we discuss this item and you know, you guys talk about it, you don't have to send all of these items to planning. I think that would be pretty extreme to do that. None of what's, or I would say the majority of what's in this item does nothing to improve the affordable housing crisis that we have in town. In fact, I would say it probably would do the opposite. Again, I won't get into the specifics. Removing bulk zoning would clearly do that because you now go back to the situation that we had prior to 2022 where you could build really extremely large houses, eight, nine, benroom houses in our 10 and our 20 zones by right without getting a variance. So if that's removed, which is being proposed here, we go right back to the issues that we had before bulk zoning was implemented, which was the ability for people to do that to build dormitory style housing in small neighborhoods, and there's nothing the town could do to stop that because it's by right, they have that right to do that. Bulk zoning stopped that. So again, unless the council knows exactly what's being asked in these amendments, I do think you should consider either continuing this or removing some of these items before you refer it or rewriting this to ask the planning board for them to put together something to send to you as opposed to you dictating to them exactly what you want, which is what it looks like here. So again, we's a good idea to talk about the public and the public. So I think that's a good idea to talk about the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public and the public ordinance change or amendment that had majority of support from the last three town councils. So it wasn't like something that a specific council push. It started with the 2018 2020 council. Then 2020, 22 passed these amendments. And in the last council didn't nothing to reverse them because they had majority support for this concept as well. So it has gone through three councils. It existed as was. And this is really a quick kind of to the planning board and I want to use the right terminology because to me this is just something that's going to the planning board asking what do you think? I have not made a decision either way on any of these issues and for anyone who thinks otherwise that's not true. And I am looking forward to seeing what the planning board has to say. I'm looking forward to seeing where they think we can compromise, where we can discuss issues that have been brought up. As Jesse said, maybe there's some things in that one ordinance that isn't something that should be removed. Maybe it should be talked about. I'm very, very open to hearing what the planning board said. So anyone who thinks otherwise, I just want to let you know that's not true. And as far as tomorrow night goes, tomorrow night is going to be the opportunity. And I hope residents here this opportunity to come forward and to talk about short term rentals. And your views on that ordinance, it's such a controversial thing right right now and we're looking for input from all sides. We have stepped away. We have nothing to do with it. It is being done by a completely, completely, our worst group, mediator, this mediation group, who by the way, I happen to be in Rotary Club with the executive director of the mediation. I called her to ask her if she can help me with just trying to figure out how to set up the round tables. And that's the extent of discussion when she said, maybe we can help you as an organization. That's the extent of my conversations. So anyone who thinks otherwise, I'm sorry about that. However, tomorrow's gonna be the great opportunity for residents to come and be able to express their views and their opinions on the short-term rental ordinance. So you're still on board with recommending all to the planning board. I'm still on board recommending them to the planning board only because I'm very interested in hearing what the planning board has to say when it comes back. Right, okay. Councillor Collinies, do you have any follow-up? I agree with Donna. This is a, you know, we're looking for recommendations. We have specific things in here, sure, that were suggested by the solicitor. I think that it's a good idea to hear them out and let them come back to us. I am not sold on all of these either, but it's something that gets the ball rolling. Yeah, I definitely don't agree with everything in here. And I think in my individual conversations with the planning board, that this is the opportunity for allow the planning board to conduct their review. And if it's not adequate amount of time, I believe we can permit more time for review correct. Because that was definitely a concern of mine, it was 45 days, it's like not enough time. Right, the town council is basically the recommender here. The town council, if asked, can grant an extension as a thank you. So are there any other questions or comments from the council? I don't support everything in here, but I think it's worth going to the boards to hear what they They have to say review and review what they send back to us. Okay. Thank you. So there's a motion on. the boards to hear what they have to say review and review what they send back to us. Okay. Thank you. So there's a motion on the floor to refer these proposed ordinance amendments to the planning board. All those in favor? Aye. Aye. Any opposed? Motion passes. 5-0. Next item is an executive session. Is there a motion to retire to executive session of the town council in accordance with Rhode Island General Laws 42-46-4 and 42-46-5A2 to discuss and act on litigation or reasonably anticipated litigation nine Exeter LLC versus Town of Narragance at LWC-2023-0367 BTRI Siconet Boulevard Investments versus Town of Narragance at L. 1, colon 23-CV-0087-JAM-PAS-WC-2023-0365E- S-S-W-C-S-2023-0365-E-S-E-S-S-S-S-W-C-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S-S087-JAM-PAS-WC-2023-0365 Eastside LLC versus Town of Narragansett et al WC-2023-0368 Eastside versus Wayne Pimentel et al WC-2024-0378 John Renaldi and Sandra Renaldi versus Town of Narragansett et al WC-2024-0378, John Renaldi and Sandra Renaldi versus Town of Narragansett at TOWWC-2023, dash 0366, and WC-2024-0212. So, move. All those in favor? Aye. Opposed? Motion to motion passes 5-0. Do we need to do a roll call vote? It's roll call, yes. I missed the second because of the noise. Done. Moved by Councillor Durkin, seconded by Councillor Vignale. Is that correct? Yes. Yes. Okay. I will ask for a roll call vote. Councillor Collinies. Aye. Councillor Torrialle. Aye. Councillor Dirk and aye. Councillor McNally. Aye. And Councillor... All vote, Councillor Collinies. Aye. Councillor Torriale. Aye. Councillor Durkin. Aye. Councillor McNally. Aye. And Councillor Menzies votes aye. Motion passes 5-0. Thank you. you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you you All right. Welcome back everyone. Time is now 9.15 and during executive session only two votes were held and that was to close the minutes from the executive session that passed 5-0 and a motion to adjourn from executive session and that passed 5-0 as well. Is there a motion? Did I get that right? Okay, good. Is there a motion to adjourn at 9-18 pm? Motion to adjourn. Second. All those in favor? All right. I'm going to post.