Town Council - Regular Meeting

Evening everybody. Good evening. Good evening.

I try to make it a rule not to use the gavl, although sometimes it's a peaceful reason like this. So, what I would like to do is have Vincent Kenda and Norm Blank please come to the front and lead us in the pledge of allegiance. Here they come. I'm a lot older. Come on up, guys, because when you get here, you're going to stay here.

I aliance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. You want you can flank me.

That sounds a little creepy. Um, good evening everybody. Uh this is a monumental uh occasion. We have two 50-year volunteers with the fire department. Vincent Colenda active still active members and we would like to recognize you. I of course miss something. Oh it Oh, is it? Here it is. No. No. Is it inside the No. No.

It's just the plaques. Okay. That's what Vincent, we'll do you first. This will be presented to Vincent P. Kinda. Narroance engine code number three. You came in May 1975. You rose through the ranks to captain 33 years. 1983 to 2016. You're still an active member. And this is given to you by the Warren Town Council, Joseph D. Pasquali, President Carrie Cronin, vice president, John W. Hanley, Councilman, Derek Tromaly, Councilman, and Lewis Rego, who is in the Mediterranean councilman. And I want you to know that there was a small period of time before he turned 18 that, tell me if this is true, you responded to fires on your bicycle. He did. I think his his father took the car away.

Joe, you're you're going to tell the whole story. It's because he got grounded and he couldn't drive his car. That's why he had to drive the bicycle. Grounded and couldn't drive his car. Didn't stop. That's from your brother.

That's from Stephen. Now we have Deputy Chief Norman D. Blank. This will be presented to you. You also came in in 1975 as a member of Narroagansit engine co 3. You rose through the ranks to captain 1981 to 1983. You were an assistant chief from 1986 to 1996, deputy chief from 1996 to present and you have a 39 years total as chief norm. And this is by the Warrentown Council.

Congratulations. [Music] Uh we'll have Walter come up first. Andrew and then we'll have whoever would like to come up from the department or the department uh chief itself. Uh please feel free.

Good evening. Uh it's an honor to uh be here. to recognize these two outstanding individuals. Uh when I was the president of the town council, uh we had the first full-time uh fire chief. And one of the uh directions we gave that new fire chief was to ensure that uh each of our individuals within the fire department would be adequately trained. and we worked diligently to maintain that volunteer status at the state house. I see Rep. Malik here and he was also instrumental in maintaining that volunteer spirit that we enjoy here in the town of Warren. Uh also one of the aspects that was vitally important was we had uh umpy umpider who provided that particular training and each of these individuals went through that particular training. I've known each one for over 50 years and they're a great asset to the town of Warren. I've always mentioned that Warren has that unique volunteer spirit within the community and we have individuals that volunteer on various boards and various committees and various sporting events. But the most important one I believe of a volunteer is the fire department. And the reason why we say that is because you have to number one be adequately trained. You have to be adequately equipped. But not only that, you don't know when those particular skills are going to be utilized. You're on 247 and it's continued basis that you ensure yourself. And each of these individuals have held ranking uh positions within their departments. So first Vincent Flender, we would like to present to you a

citation, but not only that, a plaque that says, "Presented in recognition of achieving 50 years of outstanding service to the Warren Volunteer Fire Department. Captain Vistant P. Kinda joined the Narroans Fire Company in May of 1975. Captain 33 years from 1983 to 2016 and still an active member. presented this 14th day of October by Yaw Warren General Assembly, myself the state senator, House Representative Jason Knight, and House Representative June Spakeman. Congratulations. Yes, there's going to be a lot of hardware you'll be walking home with. Uh, the second presentation is to Norman Blank. Presented in recognition of achieving 50 years of outstanding service to the Warren Volunteer Fire Department, Deputy Chief Norman D. Blank joined the Narroans at Engine 3 in November of 1975. Was the captain from 1981 to 1983. Was the assistant chief from 1986 to 1996. was the deputy chief from 1996 to the present and still an active member and presented on behalf of myself, June and Jason. Congratulations.

Hi, I know better than to compete with Senator Felg with stories. I've only lived here 10 years, so I've got nothing. So congratulations to you and thank you for your service.

I I do live in a house that was built by a firefighter, so that gives me some cred, right?

Uh sure. But at this time, I'd like to call up Chief Souza. And if you need a hand, I'm gonna call up uh

Yep. Thank you. I'm honored to uh also present to you two individuals, outstanding individuals of this town and the department. And just look behind us at the membership and support they have. It shows the years of dedication that they've given and the support, respect from their members and other members throughout the company. I'd like to ask Alex and Ed to come forward with their presentations as well. Kevin's coming up as two. Great. Thank you. All right. So, first I have a uh plaque for Captain Vincent Penda recognition of achieving 50 years of service with the Narroagansa Engine Company 3. As been stated earlier, this is not a retirement. It's recognizing active service and still responding to the call. 50 years of uh dropping what you're doing, getting up and going day, night, 24 365 says a lot about your character, who you are, and your dedication to the town and the people of Warren. With that, I thank you. This one's for presented to Deputy Chief Norman Blank, recognition of achieving 50 years of service with Naraganset engine company number three. and stand you to also have a president. Would you like to speak?

Heck no. This says it all. Welld deserved and couldn't think of a better person.

Presenting them with a badge of 50 years of service. presented by the uh Captain Clint's son, Alex, and Ed, deputy sons, Ed and Kevin Boy. Thank you. You guys have the mic now, please. I wasn't 41, so I don't know what to say other than thank you and it's been a pleasure serving the Wong Fire Department and I'm not going anywhere. Simple as that, you know, until I can't, you know, then other than that, thank you very much for all coming and uh hopefully I don't see you in the middle of the night. Very well said, Norm. And uh gentlemen in the back. What else can I say? You know, they've uh supported us 33 years as captain for myself and Norman still number two in command next to the chief. And seems like yesterday. Really? It does. you know uh I think non you were 17 I was 16 when I joined you don't get credit for the first two years it's really 52 years but you don't get credit for the first two years and uh we'll I don't plan on stopping just like Norman until I can't and uh that's a ways off and uh God bless and thank you all of you thank you very

right here.

Okay, everybody. All right. Oh, no.

Thank you. We'll see you around campus. You need your Jeep to get all that stuff home. You know, I bought one last week for another Jeep. [Music] Okay. Yeah. These are for the next people who are recognizing. Thank you. Get that. Yeah. Please. Thank you. Thank you. Are you not staying up there for not have any of these people? Don't see Robin. It's a six o' She may not. I don't see her either. And then the other one is the high school. Okay.

That she gets here. And then we want to bring up. Thank you. So next

once everybody settles down. Everyone settle down. Okay. Uh, next we have the public comment period if anyone would like to bring an issue to the council's attention, but no action can be taken other than us hearing and recognizing uh the issue for what it is. Okay. So, no one's no one's here. We do have now are these people uh Stephen Piper and Joe and Amy Kerry, would you like to speak about an issue that's on the agenda but not the public comment? Okay. So you'll be speaking on that issue at on the agenda. Yeah, that's always confusing.

You're not alone. Uh next we have uh a request from the superintendent's office to move uh their issue ahead. I think they have to be in two places at once. Is the superintendent here or representative or our school department? Hi. We need to I'll make a motion we move the uh school department item and that is further off on the agenda and I forgot where it is. I think that was wasn't that was it correspondence.

So good evening. Oh yeah, it was town manager item three. Town manager item three. So motion to move that up in the agenda. Is there a second? Second. All in favor? I. Thank you. And this is discussion and action regarding request from the Bristol Warren Regional School District to wave building permit fees for the work being performed at the Kikimu Middle School and Hule Elementary School. This is under RIGL23-27-319.

Yeah. Good evening, Mr. President. Um this is in regards to a letter that the town received from the uh uh Bristol Warren Regional School District and this involves the construction of uh and renovations uh at both Hugh Cole and uh the community middle school. Um the uh school department is requesting that the town wave any uh fees regarding uh permits uh for this project uh in order for costsaving uh for the for the uh for the school but then again for the town as well because ultimately

so Mr. This is a customary practice since we're No, no, not a customary practice. The second does not wave fees for the school department. When we get when you open the discussion, I got some stuff I don't say. Okay. Let them make their case first. I was just I was going to refer to the Rhode Island general law that it says they may that allows it's allowed but not okay. It's discretion. I think that's correct. So, uh, please feel free to come forward, whoever is here, uh, requesting this. Yes, absolutely.

Walter Heartley with PMA Consultants. Uh, so we're here requesting this on behalf of the district. Um, districts here as well. Um, but really what it comes down to, uh, is the state fees are not reimbursed by the bride program. Uh, they're capped, um, at a certain amount. Uh so any cost savings are really recognized completely by the town of Warren and by the town of Bristol. Um with that being said, um any cost savings would then be uh any costs that were part of those permits would be bonded by the district. So you'd really be paying additional money on the bonds as well. So that's the thought process behind that. So, if it's included in the total cost,

I I I'm going to ask some questions on that because I don't believe that it is all excluded from the bond money. I believe some of it it is is in the soft fees. Uh no, that's not the case. Uh ride program um gives a reimbursement number. So, there are no individual lines, but there are portions of the project that are directly above the cap anyway. But this is the only one that has the pro uh availability of being waved by the two town. So are you saying that these permit fees are not covered by the bond? I'm saying they're not reimbursed by the state. Sorry. Sorry for the confusion. Do you have anything you'd like to add to this?

No, Danielle, director of finance for the district. just that I think these are costs that again as Walter had said will be compounded when you have to capitalize this project and eventually go up to bond because they're not reimbursable by seems like an obvious question. I don't know if the answer is obvious. Is there a total? Uh Matt, do you have a total on what Warren would be for these two schools?

Mroy, building and zoning official. So, the total for the Warren fees would be approximately $150,000. Um, just so you're aware, they're going to go before Bristol to see if they can get wave the fees. Um, Bristol fees are about 1.2 million. So, that would be on us as well. Question for let me see. Any other members of the council have a question and then of course we'll go right back to you.

My question was going to be is Bristol waving fees as well? Um, and the the fees due to Warren, should we uh or uh coming to Warren, should we uh choose not to wave them, would be $150,000 out of the the bond money, but it would not be reimbursed by the state. Thus, and so when it was time to start paying on the bond, it would be more more than $150,000 compounded how often or how how how large can this grow?

Yeah, probably like a three whatever the interest rate is. Please turn to the microphone. Um probably 3% 4% over a 30-year we go into a 30-year bond. And that math for those who are challenged would be I don't not have it off hand. uh 3% of the more than 50,000 more than what it would be. Yeah, it's more than what it would be. Yes, that's and the share of the way the share of the budget works too is Warren would pay 60% I think and Bristol pays 40% maybe it's 60 and 40% of the budget when we break down the costs for reimbursement to charge the towns. Okay. So, uh

well my question we do not have the authority to wave the state fees. You're going to approach the state to ask them to wave those fees. Yeah. So that they they will be paying the state fees which is very minuscule compared to I don't believe there's option to not pay those um without for the state. I I can tell you the city of Pucket does not wave any building permit fees for the school department. Uh, so it's not done universally and I know that firsthand that they don't because I'm the one that would get the get the email from the mayor saying wave the fees and I don't get those. Certainly certainly

I I I just don't think we should wave the fees. I I think it's it helps support our building department. There's a lot of work that goes into this and it's not like I just don't think we should get in the habit of waving permit fees for the school department. But this question, doesn't it seem based on their explanation that the number we have is going to grow larger than the 150,000? Of course it is. If you finance, if you bond, it's going to come to the bond. Correct. But that's the scenario they're explaining.

Why is it 6040? Warren paying the bigger cost when it's the regional school district and Bristol is 60% and we're 40% on pretty much everything else. That's what I meant to say. Okay. Thank you. Okay. So, yeah. So, let's let's let's make sure everybody has the correct information when we're deciding this. So, out of that 6040, so let's say it was $100,000. We would pay 40. Bristol would pay 60. If we don't wave it, we're actually making 20 grand more on the deal if you're using round numbers. But Bristol's paying 1.5 million.

If I was in Bristol, I wouldn't wave that permit fee if I had a vote on it. Well, it's a it's an interesting perspective, but I'm still kind of starting to try to grasp the fact that 150 if we wave it is going I mean if we don't wave it, the total cost is going to be more than 150,000 to the town. No, because Warren is only paying 40% of that 150,000. No, that's a Could you please explain this scenario again or the come to the microphone and give us give us what you said originally on which

in other words start all over again and with a clear voice and a calm demeanor please explain to us what the scenario is that we're confronting.

Okay. Uh so we have five buildings that are being undertaken as part of this project. the main largest one being the M ren uh reconstruction or new build of the Mount Hope High School. Two buildings in Bristol and two buildings in Warren. The two in Warren being Kikimu Middle School and Hugh Cole. Uh the why we're here tonight is to request that the permit fee waivers that are eligible or are mandated by the town to see if they can be waved. The state fees for these projects, I believe Matt can correct me if I'm wrong, have already been paid. the ones for the Bristol school, the state fees are also going to be paid. We are here tonight to ask that the Warren ones be paid. We will be in Bristol requesting the same thing. The same letter has been presented to Warren. Uh because these fees are we are above the ride reim uh ride uh caps. Any dollar for-dollar savings are recognized by the district and ultimately by the towns of Warren and Bristol. The money that would be spent for those permit fees would be bonded by the district because they do not have free cash on hand to pay for this project as was voted upon previously. They would be bonded costs. So dollar for dollar, whatever is the percentage of Warren's piece would be a bonded cost over the 30-year bond of the project.

And what would that percentage be? It's whatever the project is bonded at. I don't know. They are working through bonding scenarios right now. Um, so they're I believe they have one ban correctly right now. I don't know what it is, but we are only trying to bond and trying to do it fiscally responsibly. Uh, to not bond the project of full cost until we need the money. So, we're bonding scenarios, working with their district bond council to make sure that they don't have too much money in hand at any point in time accumulating interest. So, it's estimated that our portion now in the building fees would be 150,000. I believe that is accurate. Mr. Hanley, out of that $150,000

Mhm. technically 60% of that dollars would be Bristol's responsibility. 40% of those dollars would be Warren's responsibility. That's correct. Whatever those numbers come out to. That's correct. The the opposite end of that is that there's also the one Matt, please correct me if I'm wrong, 1.6 or 1.2. Wait, we're only discussing the building per understood that, but Warren would be paying the other ones as well. Correct. Mr. strongly.

Um, my understanding based on what you're saying to sum it up is that we can either wave the $150,000 fee now or we can pay likely greater than $150,000 at a later time, but some of that cost would be split with Bristol potentially. We just don't know what the actual figures are. Is that a correct synopsis? That is a correct synopsis on the piece of the Warren decision. then there would remain to be the Bristol decision where then Warren would also pay their piece for the Bristol pieces of that. Okay. Thank you.

So if Bristol decides not to wave the fee, we would be on the hook for that as well. Okay. Is this a time-sensitive decision? Yes. How how timesensitive? You would like it resolved this evening? We are in construction. So, you'd like it resolved this evening, but does it have to be? Because I have a suggestion and I know you're not going to like this. I'm certainly willing to hear the suggestion.

Okay. I I think you you're going to need you're going to need a fiscal analysis from the construction manager for this. I I think that's what you need here. You've had some questions that can't entirely be answered unless you get that analysis. Now, I understand you want this done tonight, but I think it should be done correctly, and I think you need that that fiscal analysis from the construction manager. Well, it would be it would be us providing it as the owner's project manager, not the construction manager. We can provide that. Um, but it's I think very simply it's more money versus no money. Correct. Yeah, I understand that analysis,

but I'm not entirely sure you've convinced me for that on this. Okay. And I have to tell you, I'm going to say this. I I do have experience with other communities on these projects. And I think the town council needs to know because you're saying it's going to cost more money, but you're not telling them how much. If I had a if I had the calculator right now, I could run that scenario for you. I'm sorry. You did, but you don't. You need the analysis. I think you need to know that before you make a decision. That's my advice.

Well, where I'm coming from, and I believe the rest of the council as well, although you could do it, you haven't. And I was hoping on those answers so that we could have a final accurate decision on what we'd be either waving or not waving. Uh, I mean, I understand that it may be more But I don't understand how much and we owe it to our budget. Yeah, I I fully agree. I I think we can provide that. I think ultimately without the bonding scenario, it's 150 versus zero. So that would be the non-bonded scenario. I think we were hoping it could be based on that decision. If you need us to run an analysis of a what that piece of a 3% bond is on or or 4%.

Well, I think Mr. We can we can certainly provide that. Miss Stanley brings up a few good points. Yeah. And as well as Mr. Tromley, as well as all of us were a bit curious. Mr. Hanley, I have I have two more questions I would like to see answered before we actually voted on this. Number one, I would want some commitment or something from Bristol that they're going to wave their fees because if we wave ours and they don't wave theirs, we're holding the bag twice as big. And the second one is I would like to see in writing the law where it says the building permit fees are not reimbursed by the state. I want to see that section for review

before and I want that answer before I vote on this because if they're not if they if that law doesn't exist. I'm I'm sorry to let you know that there is no law specifically that the guidelines don't speak specifically to the permit fees not being but that's not what both of you told me. Both of you told me that the permit fees cannot be reimbursed by will not be reimbursed by the state. Correct. That's what I want to see. I want to see the language that says that it's not going to speak I can provide you the language. It's not going to speak directly to the permit fees. It's going to speak to the eligible cap uh cost caps. So, we have Okay. So, you exceeded the cap. So, the the permit fees would be reimbursed if you didn't exceed all the other caps.

We we've always been straightforward. That vote was always made that way. We've always been told what was going to be reimbursed and we voted on a project respectfully. You did not present it that way when you just presented it to us. You presented it as is. Nope. The permit fees cannot be reimbursed. The reason why the permit fees cannot be reimbursed because you went over on the other costs that are reimbursed. So technically they could have been re reimbursed. Correct.

That is correct. However, there is no way to get down to the numbers of that and we that was always how that project was voted with the understanding that there would be 100% cost on the district um on the district of uh Bristol Warren that we that we were mandated on. That was what the vote was on for the bond. Okay. It's when is Bris when is Bristol meeting to make their decision? 20 The 22nd. Okay. Um,

I think Mr. Hanley makes valid points and I don't think you're trying to hide anything in any way and I don't want you to have that feeling at all because I'm not picking up on that. I do understand it wasn't present about the cap and you know obviously if it had been under then it would have been covered but it's not so it's not absolutely and we're just trying to do the fiscally responsible thing for both towns by saving them as much money as we can and I don't disagree but until we have the our numbers in front of us uh I don't I'm not comfortable making a decision. Any other questions? Can I make a further suggestion please?

This follows up what Mr. Hanley said. uh to the extent that you're going to grant a waiver should be done jointly with the town of Bristol. Correct. Okay. So, we would send the correspondence to the Bristol Council. I think you'd have to tell them that you're considering this and you'd like to know what they're doing and if they are considering a waiver, it should be done jointly. Should that be done in the form of a motion? Yes. I'll make a motion. We continue to continue it to next month or future meeting. We could have a special meeting about it. Just say to a future meeting.

I'd make a motion we continue this to a future meeting pending correspondence with the Bristol Town Council on a joint waiver. Joint waiver. Joint waiver agreement to wave fees. Joint agreement to wave fees and also to for them to provide the construction fiscal analysis. fiscal analysis to the council before the vote. Second that discussion. Just want to make sure we provide you guys with what you need. Is it just the fiscal analysis of the cost of those? We'll run the Bristol ones as well so both towns can have it. Is that the only thing you guys need from us? Yeah, because we clarified that it wasn't

we clarified my other question that it was not reimbursable. It is. It's just that you're over the what you're over the number for what is reimburseable under that category. Yeah. So, it's not We'll provide both. It's not the permit fees itself that aren't. It's you're above the Yeah. And I'm sorry for not being clear on that. It is is a the ride regulations are very difficult. We don't want to confuse anyone. So, apologize. Uh we have a motion and there's been a second. All in favor? I. Thank you. We hope to not hold this up and we'll move it right along. Thank you.

Next, going back to the regular Agenda order. We have a resolution for the Warren Athletic Hall of Fame. And the town of Warren hereby recognizes the Warren Athletic Hall of Fame for its outstanding citizens of the town who have made a significant contribution by the example set through athletic ability combined with outstanding citizenship. And whereas the following individuals and teams are to be inducted into the Warren Athletic Hall of Fame. Michael Inenziata, Aen Baldwin, Crest, Byron Key, Andrew Menenz, Ida Nolan, Antonio Texera, John Urban, Bailey Zorbro, the Warren High School girls track 1973 team, and the Bristol County Babe Ruth 1952 team. Now therefore, be it resolved that we, the members of the Warren Town Council, join with family and friends in extending the congratulations of all citizens of the town of Warren on their induction into the Warren Athletic Hall of Fame. Approved by the Warren Town Council, 14th of October, 2025. Is there a motion to accept?

Make a motion. Second. All in favor? I pass that to Sandy. Thank you. We have recognized I'm gonna get there right now. Thank you. Recognize our 50 year members. And now I don't see Miss Ailla here and she may think that this meeting is going to start at 7. Should we maybe hold up? Hold up.

We'll hold up on this one so she can be a part of it. Next we have a presentation and this is the fiscal year 24 audit presented by H sahi and co. Do we have any representatives from that firm?

Hello. Hello. How are you today? I'm good. Thank you. I I may want to start before you. Sure. Uh as you know we had questions that we sent to you last week correct? Um I feel very uh disappointed in the answers that we received. I am u actually curious why uh why the document was even signed and accepted considering there were errors.

Well I wouldn't I wouldn't say necessarily that there are errors. The um management discussion and analysis is unudited and it is um management's opportunity to write in layman's terms the um financial highlights, the budgetary highlights, those areas that affect the next fiscal year. Um and that information was provided, the first draft was actually provided to the town in May of 2025, May 13th to be exact. and then two other or three other drafts were sent to the town when the final draft came from the town on July 17th. So, um the MDNA is unawited again and it is management's ability to um write in a narrative format um some of the highlights. Um, and yes, I agree after looking at it that um, there were some items that were not updated by the town. Um, and that I didn't catch when I was reviewing the financial statements or signing off on the financial statements. But you need to remember that my opinion is on the financial statements themselves and not on the unudited aspect of the statements or the pages that are included in the document.

No, but we sent those concerns to you last week and your answers were, "Well, it's signed. It's okay. I didn't say it was signed. It was okay. I gave you a description as to the fact that the management discussion and analysis is unudited and was presented to the town and approved by the town for presentation and delivery. When we asked you about the fund balance, you couldn't even give us an answer on that. You said that was our responsibility.

I don't know which question specifically you're asking me about. If you were asking me about portions of the management and discussion and analysis that included the fund balance, it's unudited and um I don't have a responsibility necessarily to review those or that information. Well, when when uh Mr. Abusei brought to your attention that it was either 281 or 1.7 or 300 uh

again, you're speaking about the management discussion and analysis, the unorded aspect of the statements. So, what I'm speaking about is that you're under a contract with us and we pay you for your service and we sent questions last week and to the best of my ability, I can't find them, the answers that made me feel satisfied with it.

I I don't know what you want me to say. the financial statements themselves. Our opinion is on the financial statements themselves, the governmentwide statements, the governmental fund statements and the supplementary information. The RSI required supplementary information as well as the management discussion and analysis is unuded and is presented by the town as it's the town's financial statements that are approved by the town for distribution. So I guess my concern is you're performing an audit on a body that we we've had pointed out to us is inaccurate in in some ways. So

the document itself, the fund balance in the document itself, the governmental funds as well as the net position in the governmentwide financial statements is correct. But yet there's inaccurate information included in that. Not in those statements. How come you couldn't just answer everything last week and and and and bring it to a a better position than kind of skirting the responsibilities of it's not that it's this? I'm not skirting the responsibilities, sir. Why didn't you correct them?

I'm not going to correct them. They're unudited in its management's discussion and analysis that has some information in it that is not consistent with the audited statements. But don't you think it would be an advantage if you had uh an accountant who pointed out you had a finance director that should have pointed that out? No, not him. Mr. Abruzi. Mr. Abruzi pointed out and we sent you the email including his uh concerns. I understand that. And I answered his I answered his concerns to the town manager. Not to me. I answered his concerns to the town manager.

Anybody else have any questions? No, I'm just I'm just concerned if if So, basically, you saw not an impropriety. That's the wrong word for me to use. You saw an imbalance or you saw something that didn't balance, but you just skipped over it. Is that what I'm getting out of this? Well, I think it fell into the category of it wasn't what she was auditing, therefore they didn't audit it. But sir, one more time. You could have as many times as you want.

Our opinion is on the financial statements taken as a whole, the governmentwide financial statements and the governmental financial statements. Councelor Hanley, what he's talking about is on page seven, there are what I will define for you a couple of typos or areas where they're unuded, but that the town did not pick up on them when they reviewed the statements and submitted them for distribution. But yet on a later date they were picked up when that employee is no longer here and was brought to your attention.

I understand but I'm not going to change the statements. They're unudited. The management discussion and analysis is unudited. But isn't this a body of work that we pay for? You don't pay for the unudited section. That is management's discussion and analysis. You pay for the audit. The opinion on the town's financial statements. The document is the town's responsibility. and we I think would show good faith that we took it upon ourselves to change those errors and yet you didn't change them on your end and it's included in a document that they were the items were brought up after the document was distributed. I know the document was already distributed

in your opinion. Who should have who should make these corrections? I don't believe the corrections need to be made at this point because page seven, the two numbers that are different on page seven are unodudited. And then when we get to the fund balance, there's not a defined number there. I don't understand what you mean. There isn't a defined number. It's either 281,000 1.6 million. Do you don't sir there is it's defined. Look at the governmental funds. That's your fund balance. Look at the governmentwide financial statements. That's your net position. What's the number?

The audited financial statements that we have provided an opinion on is on page 19. Your total fund balance for all your governmental funds is 3,44868. The 281,000 that you're speaking about is the unassigned balance for the general fund only. That is also on page 19. See, you know about what I'm speaking about because painting it into a position of illusion like No, I'm not. Well, that speaks specifically to what I'm talking about because I know what I'm talking about.

That's what we gave you an opinion on. That's the opinion that we provided to you on these financial statements. So, do we subtract that 281,000 from the 1.7? There is no 1.7. Why is it there? Can I can I make a suggestion? Please. Yes. Um, you know, you have a budget committee and I understand that they haven't seen a copy of the and I think it's appropriate at this time to uh refer the uh audit to them. They can ask they have expertise in the area. uh they can uh ask some questions and perhaps we can get some of some of these uh matters cleared up. I think that's the best thing to do here. I appreciate that advice.

Mr. President, may I ask a clarifying question? You absolutely correct. Are we referring to you said page 7 and 19? Are we referring to townorn Rhode Island single audit report for your ending June 30, 2020 or a different document? A different document. I apologize. I have the wrong document. That's okay. You're refer I'm referring to the financial statements themselves. Um it's entitled the annual financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2024. Um the opinion letter is dated um July 17th, 2025. Are there any other questions or would somebody like to Are there any other questions or would anyone like to

I would make a motion to refer this document to our budget committee so we can get some clarification. uh and subsequently we will vote to approve and accept it. I'll second that. Let the uh let the budget committee look at it because I mean this is I still can't find anywhere on page 19 a 1.7 well figure. It it it's it's not a definitive

not you're going to find it on page seven. So if you look at on page seven under governmental if you look at the third bullet down the unassigned fund balance was not updated to read 281183 it reads 1,794 665 which was the I'm assuming one of the earlier drafts of this document and I'm assuming it because again this is an audited management discussion and analysis. On that same sir, on that same paragraph or that same sentence, the decrease would be 7,149605 rather than the 6,119338 that is reflected there um as that may again have been from a previous draft that didn't get updated. So, uh, what I would like to do before we actually vote on that motion for discussion purposes, I'd like, uh, Gary Marshall, if you have anything you'd like to add to this because I believe you were involved in some of the conversations with Dave Hansen.

So, if you could please come to the microphone because, you know, the $3 million, um, I think it's relevant and I think it, uh, puts us in a position of where we know we're going forward. So, I I kind of follow what she's saying that the it's all included in our position. Um, these issues, the fund those fund balances and stuff that's got to be cleaned up. Um, we are planning to clean them up in the next audit that we're in process of doing now. Um, and and we were aware of that. And Dave had the same sometimes reiterated just what she's telling.

But why do I feel like no one's taking responsibility for the the errors and that we're supposed to just accept it and move forward? I wish I had a different feeling, but that's how I feel. I mean, we're looking at about 10% of our budget. I think it's relevant that there's no error in the financial statements. I will say this again, our opinion is on the financial statements, not on the management discussion and analysis. So not on those few bullets that you see on page seven. Our opinion is on the financial statements and there is no error in the financial statements.

Well, I guess what's hanging up a non um accountant like me is the areas that are bringing concern to me where I'm constantly being told it's not an issue. You sat through the last presentation, they couldn't tell us the bottom line or the numbers we were supposed to forgive. We didn't forgive it. So, I feel like here the school issue I was talking about. I feel like here, uh, I'm being told there are errors. They exist, but yet there's no clarity and there's no responsibility for them. Why did I I don't know. You should have just fixed them. Anybody have any other questions?

I do. The management discussion and analysis on those bullet points, was that information provided by the town or was that information provided by the auditors? It should have been information provided by the town. the narrative part of it. Um I will say we did help with some of the discussion with your prior finance director.

So to so in other words for that those bullet points under governmental to be corrected the town of Warren would need to provide those numbers to have this document amended. In other words, that 1.7 which I finally found, if it's $281,000 off, the town of Warren would need to provide that new number that would be correct on that page. It's in the document. It's on page 19. So, the narrative could be updated on page seven. The narrative could be updated, but these financial statements have already been issued.

Okay. But my main concern is the conflicting information in the fund balance, the 281,000 or the 1.7 or the 500,000. Why was this submitted to the municipal finance department before the council approved it? Your finance director approved it. Council didn't.

I'm sorry. The the the mechanism of the financial statements is there issued when management signs off on the management the management representation letter. The financial statements are dated and the information is provided to the state once it's approved by the town. If the town council needs to approve it, then the town should not have approved it, should not have signed the management representation letter until tonight's meeting. The town council didn't sign it. Is there anyone here?

The town signed the management representation letter under the previous right. So then errors were found. We responded back with those errors. No ant no nothing was taken. Um you should have been received if that's your your mechanism whoever you're talking about should have received the draft from the finance director when it was received that he received four drafts of this document. But what I'm really focused on is the fact that these issues were brought up by Mr. Abuzzi. They were sent to you and I answered them. I sent my answer. No action was taken.

I No action was taken. The errors are still here. You didn't bring a new report. You didn't correct us back with with where they should and shouldn't be and why they are and aren't what they are. You entered into the room in a in a in a position not to answer the questions. Mr. Bruszie, uh could you please come down and help me uh because I'm not an accountant and my understanding of the whole financial positions are difficult for me to to properly uh say, but if you wouldn't mind helping the town. Hi. Oh my god. Hi.

Hi. Um, please come to the microphone.

Hi. Yeah. So, um, in August I was given a copy of the financial statements on August 28th. And so, I wrote up a narrative to present to the town manager and to Mr. Rigo um, and to Gary. And I met with Gary about some of the inconsistencies within the report. Um, I can't validate the numbers because I don't have the source documents for that, but I can look through the report and tell you that there's inconsistencies between the narratives and the supporting schedules in the report. And that's what I prepared and forwarded to u Mr. squal last week as well as the

the town manager and finance director and and well you I believe we forwarded I just want to make sure that everybody who could have gotten the information did and right so um the issues that I found were um between not just the management discussion analysis sorry I was a little late but Um the um exactly that I believe you were talking about the general fund unassigned balance. I mean all the years that I was with the town the only thing that came out of this meeting for the audit report was what's our fund balance? How much money do we have? Okay.

Well right now you still don't know how much money you have because in your management discussion and analysis it states you have 1.7 million and in your balance sheet it says you have 281,000. Opinion is only on the balance sheet. Please please let Mr. I got you. Then you'll have I I understand like I said I your opportunity their opinion is on the 281,000 and as we had discussed and I don't want to go into all of these details um tonight but um we had discussed about the ride out water street side fund the special revenue fund 700,000 in the negative $765,000 which looks like it was overspent was probably a

2018 right since 2018. So something has to be done with that. That's correct. So if the clear entries that have been made, if the entries are going to be made to reclassify those expenses from that fund into the general fund, then you're going to see a reduction in your fund balance because you'll see a reduction in cash and increase in expenditures. So your fund balance actually could be a negative $481,000. So you need to you need to take that needs to be looked at. Now whether you address it in this financial statement 723 or you excuse me 24 or you do it in the year that just ended at some point that has to be addressed

because that fund has been closed and there's no activity since it's a known number in a known situation. Wouldn't it have been good to have addressed it? It needs to Excuse me if you don't mind. Please feel free. It needs to be addressed in the budget process. It's actually $1.4 million. It's on page 41 disclosed and you have more than the $765,000 fund deficit that is disclosed in your financial statements each and every year. Right? So again, if you look at issue number six on the report that I gave you, um I don't know if you all have it. I didn't have a chance.

Um you look at issue number six. Um what Mary just referred to, which is you do have $1.4 million in deficit funds. So, we know that based on prior discussions that we've had that the special revenue funds need to be addressed. More importantly, the special revenue funds with deficit balances need to be addressed. So, the first one obviously is going to be Water Street. The next I don't know, there's about 15 more that have deficit balances. Some of them are natural deficit balances because there's one here for the recreation trails grant that was to redo the bathrooms at Buril Park. Well, we know that has a negative balance because we know we that was a reimbursement grant. So, that makes sense. Okay, that's okay. But you need to make sure that all these other ones have sources of revenue or reimbursement to coming into the town. So that's going to be an a long project to do those to identify those um deficit fund balances to make sure that there's a revenue source attached to it so you don't end up with a water street problem again. Okay.

Is that sorry is that something that our finance director does? Yes. Okay. Oops. I I need to speak. Okay. Yes. So, we have this developing list of tasks, tasks to address deficits that need to be made clear or made whole. And and some of them may just be grants that have not yet been received yet because most most grants are re uh reimbursement grants. So, you spend the money,

right? But most of these are old. But normally, you spend money and then you get reimbured. And if it happens to occur at the end of the year, you're going to show that you're in a negative cash balance because you spent the money. You're just waiting for the grant to be completed or the project to be completed and the money to be reimbursed. I think that's kind of what happened with Water Street. But I think what happened with Water Street was you over spent and the money was supposed to be paid out of the general fund capital projects and it never was and it was never reclassified. So I've already done an analysis. I've identified all the expenditures that have come out. I need to do a little bit more digging into what they were paid for, but I I have it by year. So, um,

this list of deficit fund balances is part of note two in every set of financial statements you've received over all the years. It's right. So, it's not something new that just showed up this year. This list has been in your financial statements each and every year um as part of NO 2 in terms of overspending these grants. Well, I've felt like this was open-ended and I was hoping for a little more structure in this audit. Well, one of the things I would like to to bring up, please.

Um just to state, I don't know if it was already stated, but you know, if financial statements tell a story, this is the you know the the financial picture of the town of Warren as of June 30th 2024 and that was a pretty turbulent time right? Yes.

And these financial statements should both reflect that turbulent time and also reflect actions taken by this council to address that turbulent time. So there is a section in your financial statements and it's a note that's called um the subsequent events. It's note 15 in the financial statements. And in that note, you have a um possibility to put into that note anything that has occurred after June 30th of 2024 until the publication of these financial statements that may have impact on these financial statements. One month after you these financial statements theoretic the year closed, June 30th, you borrow $3 million to address the remaining balance in the settlement. In my opinion, that's 10% of your total revenues. It's not only material, it's relevant to the picture that you're going to be creating in these financial statements. Because remember, these financial statements in this snapshot as of June 30th, 2024 will be used by bond holders if in fact the town needs to borrow money ever again for any type of capital projects until your next audit is completed. So right now, these will be this will be the picture. And if you're showing a $281,000 fund balance, you want to make sure that in this audit report, you're also explaining how you're going to increase that fund balance by $3 million when you borrowed that $3 million to pay off your settlement fund because that's the impact of borrowing that $3 million. Okay? So, you want to make sure this tells a story that not only were we in financial difficulties, but we addressed those financial difficulties. And

if you just give me another minute in a section note 13, it's called risk management. And in that note is the opportunity for the town to say, are there any liabilities ahead? The year before there was a mention about the lawsuit. This year there is wording in that statement and if you be patient with me, um I have it on page 66. Will it be about the bond?

On page 66, it says in the note for risk management note 12, the town is also involved in several lawsuits which are not covered by the riskmanagement insurance. Legal counsel has expressed an opinion as to the ultimate outcome of all cases and as a result an acrude contingency has been recorded in the company financial statements. Okay. So, that's a big statement that says that there are multiple lawsuits that the town is not covered for. So, is this talking about the settlement lawsuit because that was already disclosed? So, is this new lawsuits and more importantly an acrude contingency has been recorded in the company financial statements? Well, the

Yeah, take a look at page 67. those lawsuits. Uh, and it says during the ordinary course of its operations, the town is a party to various claims, legal actions, and complaints. In the opinion of the town's management and legal council, the ultimate resolution of any legal actions will not result in a material loss to the town. But fortunately, in a better litigation position after that claim than we are now, right? But I want to make sure that when it says something like an acrude contingency has been recorded, has it been I mean with I can't I can't speak to the language on that. Right. That's I can tell you that I'm confident. Mike, you know this because right

when you were manager and finance director, you know what a stickler I am. I understand for having reserved funds for lawsuits, right? So my point is in your in one of your um schedules. Okay. Um it's saying we have put money aside basically and we can't find where we put it. Is that what you're saying? Well, in page 19

on p on page 19. Thank you. Uh there is a um actually it's it's under committed fund balance $3 million. Okay. But also uh in another section on the down in the um financial statements, there is a $3 million um committed for uh liability set up for um on page 16 claims and judgments and three non-current liability claims and judgments. And I was just my question was is that the same three million as the committed in the general fund because one's listed as a liability under government activities and then this is listed as a committed fund balance.

That's correct. Because governmental funds are reported on the modified approval basis of accounting under generally accepted accounting principles for governments where the governmentwide are full ac. So this $3 million, this $3 million is the same. And the contingency that has been placed is doesn't have anything to do with this. That's those are separate, right? There has been no other contingency set up. Okay. That I'm aware of. That's I'm aware of,

right? Because one of the issues is that in another note um to your financial statements it talks to um the committed um fund balances. So, um on page 50 um of the fund balances it talks about mitted per capita expenditures $1.5 million that number there and I think that's where the um unassigned fund balance 1.794 came from the net narrative

probably didn't get Yeah. So that one point Yeah. That 1.5 million um there was no capital expenditures at the end of June 30th of 2024 because you hadn't rolled over any capital, right? No, but we had wiped everything out. So this I don't think this note 9 actually because you should be able to look at fund balance on this balance sheet that we keep talking about on page 19 and then go back to the notes and see what they are. And in this case, it just says committed for capital expenditures, but there were I don't believe there were any capital expenditures. Oh, it was zeroed out.

And if if it's the same that three that 1.5 million should really be the three million, you know, just seems like there's so many questions. So there I think there's some, like I said, there's some um confusion in the schedules themselves and there's a couple of other small minor things like the um the slum funds. Um it looks like old data was used for that from 2023 has been updated for 2024 and that would be good to know what the balance of those funds actually are. So because you've been appropriating those funds to support the senior center the social services salary.

Michael, I'm going to ask Miss Baron to reread the motion please. There's a motion that has been seconded and this is all falling into discussion on it. It is pertinent but I'd like to hear the motion again just to help me with our direction.

That was it. So can I make a further suggestion on that while you're referring the audit for the review by that committee? Then we'll also make sure to get a copy of Mr. M. I don't want you to feel as if you were ambushed. Uh you were sent all of these questions last week. Uh I would have felt better than I did tonight had we had a different outcome. I apologize if you felt ambushed. That wasn't my intention. This was my opportunity to speak to you about it. It's fine.

So, I think uh we're going Is there someone to uh carry on that motion uh the extension language or are we going to do two separate motions? We have We have an extension of the motion. Don't really need to put it into the motion. Just make sure to get a copy. All right. Thank you. Uh, all in favor? I. So, we're going to, um, send this off to our budget committee. That's fine. And, um, I'm sure you'll be hearing from us. That's fine. Thank you. Thank you. You're welcome.

I should point out also, you do have your single audit. Um, the gentleman at the end asked about it. Um you did have a finding this past year where you were not in compliance with your opera funding that you spent. So um the town responded to that and that has gone into the federal government. Great. Thank you. You're welcome.

Oh, is Miss Ailla here? No, she isn't. So I think well she knew what we were going to do anyway so we're going to take care of this business and what this business is for those who don't know uh Robin Ailla has stepped forward and she is going to uh be the funer for a uh new uh planting of trees at Bersill Park and uh this will read in recognition of Robert Babailla a distinguished benefactor of the town of Warren his generosity now extended to the newly planted arboritum at Bur Hill Park. From this day forward, known as the Robert Ailla Aaretum, presented with gratitude on behalf of the citizens of Warren. October 14th, the entire council uh so uh Mr. Hanley uh suggested that the town get together with a public meeting. We did. uh we have uh come up with the rec board's cooperation and our tree commissioner as well as the tree commission and open to the public. We have an architect involved now. We have a lot of people moving this forward for anyone interested. will be meeting down the park at 11 a.m. this Saturday. And uh she's uh generously covering the cost of of this planting and probably even um some more things uh auxiliary things like a well that hopefully will be dug and uh make sure that you know we always have water down there. So uh is there a motion to accept?

I'll make that motion. Second. All in favor? I.

Okay. So we are proud owners of a Baba Villa Aborarum which is taking place as we speak. Next we have uh the compost pilot presentation and we've been told that unfortunately they they won't be making it this evening. Next we have uh interviews. We have discussion and potential action regarding the flood and drainage study committee. This is a new committee that's been uh going to be created this evening. We have one member already uh Miss Flanigan. So I guess it's not new. The people coming uh forward this evening are new. Our first uh interview will be for Nancy Schmzel. Is she here please? How did I how did I say it? Is it right?

Small cell. Small cell. Sorry. How are you? I'm glad to be here. Hopefully I bring you some good news. Thank you. So, do you want me to ask Yeah, please feel free to tell us why you think you'd uh serve well on this committee.

Okay. So, I've owned multiple properties and flood zones and I've done mitigation projects in all of them, each one very different. So, um you know, I'm used to wastewater issues and and flooding issues and mediation. Um, I since I've been living here in Warren, I've been involved in the HEZ group. I worked on the community rating system. I've worked on grants and I brought in uh for the grants for the tank and toet for water and the Red Cross. I brought in to Tuissa and they installed over 100 smoke detectors after we had one of the big fires out there. Um most of you know I was with FEMA for 20 years. I worked all over the country probably average of three disasters a year for 10 years and then I was brought into the region as an analyst and I would do analyze the disasters afterwards and you know I was their problem solver basically. That's my greatest strength is that I see things that other people don't see and I solve them for them. And I've done this at headquarters. I've done at Fire Academy. You know, various things. I don't know what else to say. Um, you know, I've discovered things like after Katrina, for example, things that were broken that nobody else in the country could see. So I would like to bring those skills to the my personal skills and my professional skills.

Sounds good. Are there any questions of the candidate? And I should point out I uh spoke with Mr. Disto. It's an ad hoc committee. Uh we're not going to be picking three. Hopefully the council will agree with his advice and we can open it up to the five members. Uh Miss Flanigan who's already on as well as the four applicants that are here this evening. Sure that's okay with you. five instead of three. Uh so uh unless you say you don't want to be on. No, I'm good. Uh Stanley. Uh yeah. Do we need to increase the number first or can we just Why don't you hear from everybody? Okay. And then at the end of the number Thank you. Okay. Great. Thank you.

Uh next we have uh Ben Greenstein. It's Ben here. Okay. Mr. Massid, is he here? Although we all know John Massid, we don't really have to interview him, but would have been nice to He was unable expressed his interest that he wants to be. I'm sure. Thank you. And Mr. Malik, I saw where's Jan? He take off. He's here. Always always willing to come forward with an opportunity at the mic. Come on down.

How are you, Jan? Good evening. Glad to be here. Uh I don't have a resume like her to be honest with you, but I do have something that she doesn't have. I lived in this town for 62 years and in my 62 years I was fortunate enough to be the public works director in this community and got called 121 2:00 of flooding problems and throughout this community. So, I basically know where all these bad spots are in the count of warrant. Uh, I'm really here because I was concerned years ago with was said by the previous person that was in the uh not building inspector, but I forgot what he was, but Bob Brulley about taking the plan

about taking over Market Street. I I honestly think there's other ways to maybe to take care of that flooding problem there since now the Kiki Muard is not fresh water anymore. It's salt water and we can look at different ways to relieve the pressure on Belchure's Cove in a certain way. You got a problem on South Main Street. And the last but not least, as a kid, there's a lot of ponds that were out there, especially in the east side of Warren. They're not ponds anymore. you know, trying to figure out why that was. Even as public works directors is because we allowed housing out there, you know, and then the people that build the houses disconnected the the the roads or drainage that used to go into the to the the ponds and stuff.

Yep. And like I said on South Main Street, that's another problem. Do you want to participate? Well, you know, throw my two cents in at least. There you go. All right. Thank you, Jim. Thanks. We'll uh let you know the schedule or the clerk will call you all. Uh so is there a motion to increase the number to five? Do we know if Mr. Greenstein is still interested? I mean we don't know but four is an uneven number. Five, you know, maybe somebody else was third. He is still interested. Okay. Yeah. I'll make a motion we appoint all four members to the uh Well, increase the number first. I'll make a motion we increase the flood and drain ad hoc committee to five members. Second. All in favor? I.

And I'll make a motion we appoint the four candidates to the pl and drainage advisory committee. Second. All in favor? I. Thank you everyone. Uh there are no applicants for the 250th commission. There are no applicants for the voluntary historic district committee. And that brings us to the acceptance of minutes. Uh I didn't find any errors in the September 9th. Anyone errors or corrections? I'll make a motion we accept the September 9 regular schedule meeting minutes. Second. All in favor? And the executive session minutes I believe are emailed to us. Make a motion we accept the September 9 executive session minutes.

All in favor? I. And the acceptance of the special meeting minutes for September 11th. I'll make a motion that we approve the uh September 11th, 2025 special meeting minutes. I and Miss Cronin can't vote. We weren't here. That leaves us with a um not a quorum. How does that work? The ethics commission uh state recognizes the uh necessity of necessity. Go ahead. Is there a motion to approve? I have a motion in a second already. Second. All in favor? I.

There you go. Two gets it. Very rare to. Next we have the acceptance of the September 19th special site visit meeting minutes. Believe I have to recuse myself on that one. Abstain. Recuse or just not participate. You weren't there. I think it's it's the same thing we had just a recusal or abain. Abain. Sorry. There you go. Uh so carry and I I make a motion to accept. I'll second it. All in favor? I another rare two. And now an acceptance of the October 7th, 2025 special meeting minutes. Make a motion to approve. And second,

John and I was not there. So abstain on that vote. There's a motion and a second. I'll second it. All in favor? I There we go. Next we have the consent agenda. All items listed with an aster considered to be routine and we have just one one. I'll make go ahead. Sorry. I'll make a motion to approve the consent agenda. Second. All in favor? I.

Thank you. Next we have chapter 13 article two noise section 13-23 maximum permissible sound levels by receiving land use. This is the first reading and it was presented by Councilman Tromley. Uh Mr. Tromley, I'll allow you the opportunity to explain uh the position that you're putting in front of the council.

Thank you, Mr. President. So, um as everyone well knows, uh there was a recent dispute over noise regarding a restaurant in town and some of its abuts and it brought that issue to my attention. And there have been some numerous issues with noise in the downtown area over the last few years with various businesses, various events. My in reviewing the the ordinances related to noise, I noticed that in the village business, general and waterfront districts, it's 75 dB the entire day. There's no sort of period at which that reduces like at night. As you can see in the residential areas, um it's 65 dB during the day and then after 10 p.m. until 7 a.m. it goes down to 55. It was my intention to use this as an opportunity to open the discussion to see if it would be appropriate um based on the feedback that I've gotten in on the uh the recent issue um which is my first sort of experience with a noise issue in town. Um many of the responses were very thoughtful and some of them suggested that a compromise would be at a certain point of day the decibel level would lower so that outdoor music would turn off and and everyone would go about their evenings peacefully. My intent with this was to not put in stone but to open a discussion about what works in the downtown village business general and waterfront districts. Um, so as you can see by the proposal, it instead of being 75 decel all day, including at night, it would go from 7 am to 8:00 pm, uh, Sunday through Thursday would be 75 dB. And then at from 8:00 p.m. till 7 a.m. it would drop down to 65. And uh then in addition on Fridays and Saturdays that would just be extended an

hour to 900 pm. I've gotten a lot of feedback, good feedback from people in the community, small business owners that have asked that we consider amendments um in terms of what the decibel level should be, what hours it should match or or should be applied and if there should be special exemptions for holidays, for example. And um the second part of this um is uh section D or excuse me article 12 section 11-364 just kind of reaffirms that the town has the right to ex ex uh to wave that requirement under for special circumstances and special events. But my thinking is this is intended to open a discussion. I feel that there's a few folks here who are going to be testifying about that and maybe their opposition maybe suggested amendments and I welcome all of that. This is not meant to be a a set in stone sort of thing. This is meant to sort of try to address the noise disputes before they happen if that makes sense and to clear up an area of law that or area of ordinance that was sort of confusing to me. So thank you Mr. President.

You're welcome Mr. Charlie. It was a good explanation. And so you're looking to open up a dialogue and see what the community has to say. Yes. Uh you've heard from the sponsor. If anybody wants this for their opportunity to speak or if anyone is going to speak, here's your opportunity. Uh come on down. Mr. Piper, would you like to refer to this and take a look at it? I mean, you know, it's what he said.

Uh thank you. My name is Stephen Piper. uh 19 Washington Street, so right in the uh heart of town here. Um I just want to stand in opposition of this uh proposal for two reasons. One, just considering the mathematics of it, 65 dibels is actually um about the sound of an ambient noise. Uh it's the sound of wind rustling through trees because I checked it the other night. Um and in the council, like in tonight's meeting, we've gotten up to 78 dibels. So this would be in violation of the town ordinance just meeting together. So that's that's one fact. And the other piece is just sort of what our town how this would affect our town. So we live in a town of 11,000 around 11,000 people and what attracts people to our town is its vibrancy. We are now a food destination or it's arts destination or a culture destination. So to shut down at 8:00 is I think overkill. So thank you very much. Appreciate it.

Thank you. You're welcome. And uh F Todd Nelson live. Oh wow. Hey, take the opportunity. Come on. Thank you, sir.

I just want to mention your we a lot of uh discussion about music and the and the like activity of entertainment, but I just the working waterfront, the waterfront district was about preserving some of the commercial nature of that, whether boats come off from, you know, a fishing trip in 2 am. There's not really a time. We don't we don't take commercial landings anymore, but there are other smaller commercial landings. And of course, uh, our factory does run 247, so keep that in mind as you deal with changing the waterfront district. I had not considered that. Thank you for that input. Actually, Mr. Bount, yes.

Could you just give everybody a a a quick explanation of what you did when you came in with the clamshack? I can. I've got some neighbors here. So, um, the CLA specifically is more on probably more intentional what you're talking about, uh, which takes a lot more work, corporation, and, um, potentially science depending, and I know some of the other neighbors have done that. We're lucky we closed a earlier than some of the establishments. Um, so it's a it takes a a lot of activity and collaboration. U, but also just want to keep in mind, uh, the combination activities going on in the waterfront. So, didn't you actually do a design?

We did. We did precision speakers that are um directional, although we have people in every direction, so we had to really tone that in basically going out the the river towards the bay. That's where we ended up and it was successful. It was successful so far. So, I just want to It's been a good year. I want I just want it to be known that you were a business that worked with us because we're not out to get business. Yeah, as you know. Thank you. Thanks. Uh, who would like to come down again or next?

Who are you? I'm Joel Carrie, my wife. I guess she's not coming. Amy, she's So, we're both homeowners down uh in the business district as well as business owners. Um, Stephen, you chose to live there in the town, the village business district area.

Um, and we agree with Steve, we love the vibrancy of the area being downtown. Um, we actually when we moved from Miller Street to uh, Lynen Street, uh, we actually looked at it moving on to Twissit or Hobith even and we wanted the vibrancy of living down here. So on that side, um couldn't agree more with Steve what Steven Piper said um about the noise and you know we have no qualms with that. Um as a business owner um we own both the square peg and stingy alley and I just think if we're going to look into this and I get it you want to open it up and look to it. I did the same thing as Stephen. I googled what 65 decel was. It was, you know, normal conversation. And I can tell you right now, say with the square peg on a summer night, we like to have our windows open. If we have a full restaurant in there, we don't really do live music that much, but just the sound of, you know, the music we're playing, we're probably going to be over normal speaking conversation level. So, that would be a huge concern for us past even past 8 o'clock. Our kitchen closes at 9:30. Um, the restaurants open till 112 on the weekend. So, um, I just hope there's outreach to small businesses, especially the restaurants. We've talked to a lot of restaurants um, coming up to this meeting and I know there's a lot of concern about as well and just as long as we're kept in the loop and we can have an open dialogue, we'd appreciate that.

If I may, Mr. President. Yes, please. Out of curiosity, because I know you great business owners, great residents, um, is there a time B I threw in 8 and nine o'clock as not based on the feedback that I got, but if you had to select a time, what times would you think would be appropriate to to put if you had to choose? Put me on the spot. I know. I'm sorry. I mean, I I Well, again, our kitchen doesn't close at the swear peg till 9:30. So, I could tell you at least 9:30, 10:00,

um you're going to have people in there. Um, we've, you know, we briefly spoke with, uh, Sam at Chomp. We know the owners of the Warf Tavern. Um, Diego at La Pinata. Um, you know, I think again, if we start going down this road, I think we need to I I downloaded one of these decibel meters on my phone today. I had dog barking next to my house that was 72. So, I don't know where we Well, I I um I was going to wait till everybody was done talking, but maybe I could help people in where at least I'm coming from. Uh obviously, there were uh some complaints. You sure

from Washington Street. And what I'm hopeful is that the restaurant of La Piñata took our concerns because we actually went on site and everything that you're saying in regards to the uh decel readings of various things was true that night. Our conversation was at about 63 to 68. Uh the Piper dog started barking. It was on 78. Um the pipers were maybe it was a birthday, I don't know. They were like 74 on their porch. So the interesting aspect of what I experienced that night isn't necessarily the volume, but it has to do more with the direction and in this case the particulars. A cowbell at uh you know 9:00,

right, could drive me. It would you know I I didn't want to hear it consistently. Um you know the congas or the bongos the way they were coming across. I think they worked with us. I think they understood that we weren't trying to shut them down. Yeah. And I think I think LA as well as us and you guys know we you guys have always been great and pro business and for us it's you know we live here too. We don't want to get in fights with our neighbors. We don't want to upset people. So it's I think it you know it just there's a lot of nuance behind it that needs to be addressed. There is. And if you do have one customer who's a just screaming constantly you know it it we don't want that customer you know. Well, I mean, I've I've been Why don't you look at me when you had that?

We've had that guy. And you have and and it was interesting because the night that I'm that I'm specifically talking about, it overflowed into the street. And in my case, fortunately, your brother was there and your mother. Yeah. Because it was not me by any means. And this person brought it to me. And it was like, are you kidding me? And that, you know, because I don't like it when people point out who I am because who the hell am I? But that night as you remember it was this crazy situation of somebody who was liked to scream. Uh but thank you for your input and uh we appreciate it and we're not it will be taken into consideration the second reading if if one does come. Okay. Thank you very much.

Yeah. Welcome. Uh who else would like to come up either in favor or against or give uh input that they consider helpful or neutral or Okay. Motion to close the public hearing. Is there a second? I don't think it was a public hearing. Oh, first reading. Yeah. So, we don't need one. Yeah. No. Uh action of the counc. All right. Now, actions of the council.

I really don't think we need to change the ordinance at all. I mean, we've had a few complaints and the solicitor is going to like this pun. We have a small group of people making a lot of noise. Uh it's not an overwhelming problem in the town of Warren. Uh, I went to that I wasn't at the official site visit, but I did go by there. Wasn't irritating. The cars driving by were louder than La Pinñata. Uh, I consider myself a rational person and I was not offended, shocked, mortified by the noise that was happening there. So, I see no reason to change the ordinance. But if we are going to change it, that 8:00 and that 9:00 numbers are are I think are ridiculous. I think it should be either 10 p.m. all the way through or 900 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 1000 p.m. Friday and Saturday. But also in I'd like to somehow get wording in there like say if we the day before a holiday, say if there's a holiday on Monday, let's get that Sunday to be that 10:00 number if that's the way we go. But I really wouldn't want to change any of it. But if we are going to change it, we got to be pretty reasonable. I mean, it's called the village business district. It's not the village cottage district. Okay. The other zone is uh commercial general and the other one is waterfront. You're not intuitit. You you got the whole package here. You want the quaint to be near downtown. You're going to have the bustle of the pedestrians. You're going to have the noise of the business. You bought the whole package. You can't just pick out the pieces you like and get rid of them. You bought the package, you own the package, you got to live with the package. That's it.

Thank you, Mr. Hanley. Uh, but what I'd like to point out, though, is this we're not picking sides. We're not saying that people who complain are bad and people who make noise are good. Uh, this is a real issue that we're taking seriously. Uh, because we all live here and I agree with what we've I've heard so far. Anything from this side? Sure. Miss Cronin, please.

Um, yeah, they I'm curious. Have we had uh any recent noise complaints? We have not. For me personally, the noise complaints that I get that come directly to me are about the noise from trucks, the noise from cars, the noise from motorcycles. And then we have the complaints about our own DPW the other night cleaning till 11. So we must be very careful what we do to you know make make rules about because we don't want to be the ones violating. I you know we've all been in that situation where somebody obnoxious is making a lot of noise. They're isolated instances but we have this vibrant downtown community. We've got these great businesses for a destination. We we if we are to create a time limit to say no noise after a certain time, how are we enforcing it? Are we it's it's it's almost we're almost creating something that's not enforcable. So, um I think if we can create some sort of language that would say, you know, unreasonable noise over and above a 75 decel limit, you know, if caught, you know, they've got to stop. I I just we can't prevent cars and trucks and motorcycles from driving through town. So, we're kind of, you know, there there's nothing we can do to control that. Um, and I don't think it makes any sense to go under 75 because we all agree given the the data that we've received that we're exceeding that here in this room. So, if we were to set a time limit for

Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, I wouldn't go earlier than 10, possibly even 10:30 to get that kitchen closing at 9, 9:30. give people an hour to eat. Um, and I can hear the people after they've had a good night at Revival or at the Square Peg coming down my street, but sound like they're having a good time. I I I wouldn't I wouldn't make any um efforts to to to go earlier than a a 10 or a 10:30 and then I agree on an evening that is prior to a holiday possibly extending it if it's a Sunday night. But I'm I'm not eager to to make any big changes.

So you referenced the Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. I think that the the the potential here was to make it a little rowdier on uh the Friday or Saturday. The days you I mean I just want to make sure that you agree with what it was you said. Yeah. Yeah. No, I because the 10:30 those are the nights that it would actually be uh earlier so that people would have uh the only night I would say to go earlier on would be a Sunday night and on a Sunday night are who's open on a Sunday night downtown? Yeah. Unless, like I said, unless it's the Monday's a holiday then.

Exactly. But who's open on a Sunday night downtown? Is the square peg? No. Is stingy. Now, but like you said, there's things that might say the Wednesday Thanksgiving is the biggest night in the country, but not a holiday. So, you got you have to have that. We don't have you're gonna run into a lot of Yeah.

Yes. And I think that Mr. Traumaly is uh this is this is definitely a positive uh try. I think the difficulty comes down to the repetitive aspect. If you get there and there's not the noise, uh the person who rightfully was being driven crazy, um now has uh there's nothing to stand on because the noise has stopped and I don't think the police can make somebody start making the noise that originally made the complaint. That would be a very big violation of civil liberties. Yes. Right. So, uh, Mr. Tromley, if you haven't, do you have anything else you'd like to

I just want to say to everyone who came out and testified, thanks to my council colleagues. I'm hoping that if we do choose to go, if I if we are able to find the right language, the right uh way to adopt this, we can sort of prevent these issues from arising in the first place, which is my my only goal with this. And if not, and this is unworkable because of practicalities, I understand that completely. But, uh, you know, I'm very grateful. Thank you for the time and thank you for your input. And um I'm hopeful that uh we can find we're speaking the same language. We're on the same items. We're just a little bit off. So let's see if we can get that everyone on the same page.

What I what I from my two cents coming into this and coming out of this right now, a lot of the business community has heard us. Um a lot of the residents have heard us. We've received several uh chain emails that I know there are a lot of people that are responding um against changing this. What I'm looking for is cooperation. Just because you can do something doesn't make it right. Just because somebody may not like the sound of something doesn't mean you can continue. We all need to get along. As we've heard from everybody who's testified, no one doesn't eat at any of these restaurants, which I thought was kind of amazing from the first people who brought this to our attention. They're not against La Penatta. They go there, they dine there. what they're hoping for is just a change in uh the kind of volume of kind the the kind of instruments they're hearing because as I think you all can agree on some things really kind of you know a cowbell can

make you nuts. I I don't see any reason to change right now because I don't know what we can hold the law to. I was going to make a motion. I don't even know if we need a motion to do it. I was going to make a motion to reject the first reading. In other words, does any action have to be taken, Anthony? Depends on what action you want to have action. So, if we if we didn't want it to go forward, would it be a motion to reject or would it just be take no action? Take no action. Okay.

Well, I don't see how we could feasibly do this. I mean, uh, change it and hold people accountable at those hours because, like I said, the night that we were there, we were almost in violate. Well, we would have been almost, well, the dog barking was and the party was. So, um, but it was at normal hours, so they weren't really in a violation. It's just that that volume level at a certain hour would have been. So, I I I don't feel comfortable uh pushing something through that I don't know how we're going to hold. So, Mr. Haley made a motion. Is there a second? No, he said just take no action. No action. I thought that was your motion to take I was going to make one, but

Oh, so it's not a motion to take no action. We just we just don't do anything. Okay, Mr. Tronley, thank you. Uh the business community, I think, has heard us, no pun intended, and uh hopefully we're going to have cooperation, a continued cooperation. Thanks, Mr. that uh I'll continue working on a a second draft perhaps that's more acceptable and maybe work around some of the issues that you we brought that everyone has brought up here tonight.

Don't give up. Thank you. Next we have ordinance 2, chapter 32, zoning ordinance, article 23, definitions. Section 32130, definitions, article 5, district use regulations. Section 3231, criteria for specific categories of special use permits. The amendment to this zoning ordinance will allow for the retail sale of cannabis products in the business and rural business zoning districts. This is a first reading. Okay. If I if I if I may, it is a first reading,

but because it's an amendment to the zoning ordinance, it's controlled by title 45, chapter 24 of the general laws. That means that your action tonight in moving it forward would be to refer the matter to the planning board for a recommendation as to whether or not this ordinance complies with your comprehensive plan and also to set the matter down for a public hearing with advertising. Uh this is something in my understanding that is being brought forth by the town itself so that advertising would be paid for by the town. And should we add that this was part of the referendum that the town people agreed on in a vote to allow the sale of cannabis and warrant. Doesn't mean that we have to, but what it meant was we have the opportunity and ability to.

Yeah. That that vote was essentially an enabling enabled the town council to uh pass an ordinance of this nature, but did not require it. And also before we start discussion, uh they estimate about a three well there's a 3% tax and there's estimated about $150,000 that would come into the town of Warren if we were to approve this.

Yeah. And by the way, uh merely passing this ordinance is not a guarantee that ultimately there would be a an establishment in the town. you're part of a larger district I believe that stretches from Pucket down to uh Aquinic Island and that means that uh uh it may be located you may get an establishment here in Warren but uh given what the state does on these things with the lottery you may not this would allow for somebody to come here and uh also in the ordinance need to go to the zoning board for special use permit

is there anybody from the public who'd like to participate in this discussion Feel free, please come down, state your name and address, and the floor is yours. Right. Good evening, council. My name is Nick Andre. Um, I'm actually a Bristol resident, but um went to Kimuitt and um actually left after college to uh move out of the state for a little bit. got involved and worked in the cannabis industry and I have um executive level experience in multiple states um for about seven years. So I just wanted to speak a little bit about um my experience from an operator's perspective and um hopefully some of my comments may be helpful for you to make a decision. Um so basically uh the state of Rhode Island is holding a lottery. The application uh period is open right now and actually closes on December 29th. And because of the referendums that were um put in the Rhode Island Cannabis Act that required each town and municipality to vote on whether or not they wanted to allow the use, um because Warren voted to allow the use, uh people if they come forward with a project in Warren would be allowed to participate in that lottery. The issue though is it's really close to the application period right now. As I said, it it closes on December 29th. And to apply, you have to have all your municipal approvals. That has to be zoning, um, you know, whether it's a special use permit that's required. You have to have that special use permit in your hand and issued before the 29th in order to be as part of that lottery. And part of the Rhode Island general laws that were passed uh with the Rhode Island Act, Cannabis Act, say that um there cannot be unreasonable or impractical, um laws passed by a municipality that would stop the use from occurring if their voters did vote for it. And so, um you know, this ordinance, what it does, uh and I actually think it's a it's a pretty good

ordinance, um it allows and identifies what areas of town would be allowed. Without it, the state takes the position that any general retail use is allowable for cannabis retail. And so, right now, as it stands technically, and I I know this because I'm working in some other jurisdictions, is that if someone were to come forward to the state, uh if you're allowing if you don't have an ordinance for a special use permit or an overlay district or zoning laws, um you're allowed to apply at any general zoning district. So, it's important that the town look at like what's going to work best for Warren, where to put it, where you think it's appropriate. Um and just basically you know what's going to be in the best interest of the community. So um with that I just uh I encourage well first of all I encourage the adoption of it but the issue is the special use permit because can someone realistically get a special use permit if you refer it to the planning commission the planning board has to hear it. It comes back there's two readings. Is there time to accomplish that before December 29th and have someone be able to come forward to you, apply for a special use permit, and receive it all before December 29th?

The answer is there's nothing we can do right now to change the timeline. Yeah, probably doesn't mean we we need to take the balances off it just because we're going to try the time. Well, for sure. Yeah. I mean, what I'm just cautioning is that like if someone comes forward and then there's no viable path to get a special use permit, if that's what you require before December 29th, it could run a foul of that state rule and then the state can't It will not. I got to tell you that it will not. Okay. Well, that that U referendum allowed the town to have rules and regulations

in place for somebody to come in. If a town doesn't do so, it doesn't make it by right. it makes it a not permitted use. Now, that'd be something I'd be willing to litigate. Yeah. Okay. Well, yeah. No, I I definitely hear that. Um I'm just telling you from my experience with a different jurisdiction on island. That's the position that was being taken. So, that that position is not correct. Okay. Now, I'm going to tell you this. It may it may not be. I'm not saying it's correct. I'm just telling you what my experience is.

Understood. But I represent other communities. That's been my experience, too, where communities are going in. So, this isn't something that I I um am unfamiliar with. So, my advice to the council remains they're going to need to have an ordinance need going to need to this one has a special use permit. That's the decision of the council. But those rules and regulations have to come into effect. And if they don't, notwithstanding the fact the referendum passed, this will not be a byright use. And I'm saying that because I know it's going out. Perhaps someone does want to locate here and I don't want them to have the misimpression that if this ordinance doesn't pass, I can just come in and put this in a residential zone.

Yeah. And to be clear, a byite use is not something I would advocate for at all. Um actually support you know what you guys are trying to do. Just bringing up the concern about the timelines. We appreciate your input and thank you Anthony. Does this Mr. Hanley, go ahead. Does this also include because there are state requirements. It's got to be so far away from this that that is that all included in the special use requirements. Um yeah, you know, the state has their own requirements. Um and that has to be adhered to. That's something that the zoning board can take a look at when they when they go for the special use permit also and they can put their own conditions on if they approve. Correct. Mr. Trauma, you have any questions?

No, I uh I think that this is a good good ordinance and I'm looking forward to moving it. Miss Cronin, the only question I have is if we can set a limit on how many permits would be available or approved in town. If we got two applications, we have two districts. Could we accept one and deny the other or does that need to be stated? Well, it can't be uh stated in in the zoning ordinance, which you'll be u taking a look at here, that there can't be a limitation on that. The only limitation that you can put in uh if you authorize this is where it can be located in the uh town by zone.

Okay. So, are you looking for a an actual uh input of those two districts or I thought we were already discussing the business and the rural business. That's the only place that would be allowed by special use permit. the other places it would not it would be a use variance which is much more difficult to get. So how should we proceed? I think we should proceed as passing the first reading. Now Anthony, one way that we might be able to incorporate into the zoning ordinance to limit the number is also put in a requirement where they cannot be located within a mile of another cannabis retailer. Could we put that in the zoning ordinance?

You could. Yes. So, if we put something like that, it's pretty much going to limit it to one or two in the town in these two districts. That That's correct. The other thing, too, is, you know, based on um how the the state is issuing these licenses because there's a limitation from there. To me, it's unlikely that you're going to get more than one in this town uh you know, by the state, right? So, but you can do that. Yes. Okay. You want a motion, Joe? Uh please. I'd like to make a motion we pass first reading but also ask the solicitor to incorporate a onem distance requirement between uh cannabis retailers. I'll make a second

discussion. Mr. Tromaly, you look like you have Yes. Just recalling is this referring also to the planning board in the interim for comment? Uh assuming that uh you you're going to move this forward? Yes. Uh it has to be referred to the planning board. Okay. Uhhuh. their recommendation and you also have to set it down for a public hearing at your next meeting with the necessary advertising. Does that referring to the plane board have to be made in the motion or no? I recommend that it be then I'll just amend the motion to include referral to the uh in that case if that is the will of the council that that's will council.

So we have a motion and a second. All in favor I all right move it forward. So what was

when that was my question is when is this going in like when does it have to be read in? Um, we have a letter from former councilman Kenda who's sent in a request for a traffic impact study and compliance review prior to ordinance amendment. Metacam Avenue and Mark Street card is I don't really know where this is supposed to get plugged in. Does anybody know where this should get plugged in? I It's not on the agenda today. No, but Oh, in the beginning.

Okay. Well, we'll close with it. Uh, next we have chapter 32, zoning ordinance. This is a sign regulation. Um, for those of you who want to know the specific, it's a feather banner or feather flag is a type of vertical advertising banner. It's taller than it is wider and typically attached to a single flexible or stationary pole that is affixed to the ground. Um maybe you've seen also the inflated tube man that that goes up and down to tell you that you're open. And these uh flags are we found not really put up uh appropriately like you know they're up 24 hours a day. They fade. They're everything. We found other communities have uh gotten gotten away with them. I kind of find them an eyesore. Um a building official may have something he'd like to add to this. What we're what we're what we're in the process of doing potentially is banning them. We have too many things on the sidewalks.

Matt Cabo, building zoning official. Uh so yeah, what what's happening is um these are showing up at many of our businesses. Uh the intent is to bring more business, but it's actually bringing eyes saw. Um they they not only exceed the sign limit, but they also become a safety hazard. We just had a weather event with a large amount of wind and rain, and these type of uh banners tend to make noise or fly around. Um they're not really they're not really being brought in. Um in other communities, they they were allowed just for u you know, grand openings. That was it. And they've in in our community, it seems like they're keeping them there as permanent signage. So, I believe that if we could put an ordinance that doesn't allow these, it would make my job a little bit easier trying to police these things

and I think clean up the sidewalks. Uh, any any additional Mr. Hanley, it's your business. Yeah. No, I don't particularly like them myself. They started out just being at car dealerships. Now, everybody that owns a store buys one of these things. Yeah, it's everywhere. puts the guy out there makes you look bad. Mr. Dromley, question for the solicitor. My reading on page two um where it says blow up signed feather banners and signs containing reflective elements which sparkle or twinkle in the sunlight are prohibited. Should there not be a comma after feather banners? It couldn't hurt. Okay. Can I can I would the Would Councilman Hanley be amiable to that amendment? Absolutely. Then I am No,

I love grammar. are always a favor of proper grammar. It makes a big difference. It does. I've lived the life of the person who doesn't know grammar. Um, so Mr. Hanley, you made a motion. Yep. Made the motion that we approve. Will this be a first reading, Anthony? Oh, we referring this to the planning commission, too. Same thing, President. I make a motion that we refer this to planning commission for their review and opinion. There's a motion in a second. All in favor? I there should be a further motion to set it down for a public hearing. I'm assuming at your next meeting with proper notice.

We do we know if planning is going to have their opinion by then. Well, if we force the issue possibly and we make it that way. set it down for a future meeting for appropriate uh review by the planning board and also public um notice by publication. So refer to the planning board and set a future public hearing for its consideration. Correct. I'll second that motion. All in favor? I.

Okay. Next we have ordinance 4 that's chapter 11 licenses and big business regulations article two alcoholic beverages taverns and bitchilling houses section 11-28 limitation on the number of class B liquor licenses this is the second reading and this is pursuant to the provisions of section 3-516 of the general laws the town council hereby limits the maximum of class B liquor licenses to and we would be increasing to 32. We can we this is a second reading. I think we I ended this out last month. I'm going to make a motion we increase the number of class BB licenses to 32. Is there a second? Second.

All in favor? I. Now we move on to a public hearing. This is a public hearing that may or may not even matter. This is for show cause hearing. Uh Mr. the system. We kept it on the agenda in case there was a need. And uh this is a Pistol Inc. La Pña. We've had no complaints. The applicants, I mean, the restaurant owners are here. Uh what would the show cause hearing be of if we were to participate in this?

It was a contingent public hearing that was licensed uh that was uh noticed and that's why it's on the agenda. But if there's nothing can go forward uh the uh there's no one here that uh no one here or the uh show cause hearing other than the owners of the establishment. I think they can be excused.

Is there anyone here who's uh willing to participate in a show cause hearing against this establishment? It means are you going to come up and argue against the establishment in regards to their cooperation and the actions that were put on them last month. Thank you. So we have no reason for the show cause hearing. Gentlemen, please continue the cooperative spirit. And uh that's it. So do we need a motion or just no action? No action. Thank you. Thank you.

Next, we have public hearing two. This is a request for a class BB beverage license from Sell Off the Lane LLC if they're doing business as Sell Off the Lane. Mary Beth Ryder and Michael St. Angelo. Mr. St. Angelo, please come on down for your moment in the spotlight. Once again, let us and the viewing public know what it is you're uh willing to start doing in the town of Warren. Yeah, we're starting to open up an Italian restaurant in the space where Uptown was. Basically, we operate one in Barington. Same same concept. We're looking for a good chicken palm. Yeah.

Uh my only question, and if I asked this last time, I apologize. I'm asking again, what is your timeline for getting open? Probably um late November. Okay. Yeah. Just everybody's asking. Yeah. Yeah. Is there a motion to I'll make a this we approved that the public hearing. Oh, sorry. Yeah. Public hearing. Sorry. We approved the uh vuling license last month, I believe. Correct. Yes. There's an amendment uh because there was a u I believe a change in the name of the the business. Yep.

So, because this is a public hearing, is there anyone from the public who would like to come down and participate in the discussion regarding the license for the restaurant? The BV license? No. Yeah. the BB license, excuse me. Uh, so hearing no one. Is there a motion to close the public hearing? Make a motion we close the public hearing. Is there a second? All in favor? Is there a motion to approve the uh to grant the license to Mr. St. Angelo as sell? Second. All in favor? I see you next month. Thank you. Before you leave,

Mr. There is an amendment to the name on vual license. It's a housekeeping thing that he needs to do. to reflect the name of the uh of the business. And the correction is Sorell Off the Lane LLC. Yep. So, should we just renew this? Just issued this like a new license. Just uh if you could make the motion that the vitual license will be held in the name of Sell Off the Lane. I'll make a motion to hold the vigiline license in the name of Sorell Off the Lane. I'll second. May I ask though, um what what is the reason for the name change out of your house? Um just my wife wanted to do it because we have the other place on. All right, understood. Thank you. Separation. All right,

hang on. Entertainment license. Wait, we have to vote on that motion. All in favor? I don't go anywhere. Now we're going to have your entertainment license. Where is it? May I ask the question? Good. Yeah. Which is uh you know in Barington you have that heavy metal band. Yeah. It goes up to like 150. I couldn't understand. point the speakers towards his house, please. Festival things. You don't you don't you're not going to have a heavy metal, man. No. All right. So, uh P2, request for victory license amendment. No, that's the Did that P3.

This is P3. Request for a yearly entertainment license. Sell off the lane LLC. Uh you want to have a one or two person ban, nothing inside or even if it's outside, you got to, you know, be within your limitations. Is there a motion? Motion to approve the entertainment license. Second. All in favor? Okay. Go. Thank you. Now, am I going backwards or no?

Continue going forwards. Yeah, Serell was the other one, but I didn't get the uh the Bloom Pet. That was the P1. Okay. Thank you. That's our Next, we have H Christiey's Craft Tales. Is Christy here? I think she is. Come on down. How are you? Great. And uh yeah, just don't be too loud. Yeah, heard you. Uh this Where's the app? Oh, they left. Never mind. Stop. You want to be uh a victual licensed on top of all the others and Warren? Yes, I do. Okay. Uh any questions for the applicant? Just want to say love your work. Thank you. Thank you, Eric. Um

just trying to add a little value. anything other than admiration. I'll make a motion we approve the vigiling license for Christy's craft tales. Second. All in favor? I. Thank you. Good luck. Next we have correspondence. Is there anything that anyone would like to pull out of correspondence? There's a uh can we send a letter of appreciation to Chris Matos? Second. All in favor? I'd like to pull C3. NC3. It's from the town of Wesley opposing the change of the name of Victory Day. I don't see why we need to change the name of Victory Day.

Stanley wants to. So, Victory Day, this is from Westerly. Uh, Victory Day currently pays tribute to the immeasurable service men and women who served, sacrificed and died in the Pacific and China, Burma, India. theaters of Operation Dura 2. And whereas our job is not to erase history, but to preserve it and educate our citizens on Victory Day with the impact of World War II upon and within our state. Whereas renaming this day to peace and remembrance day is disrespectful to our military reg. So you're in agreement with this. I agree with this. Yeah. I don't I don't want to see it changed. I mean all the people that died for that war. Whereas the victory day

town council has concerns relative to previously proposed house bill 5887 the bill's potential reintroduction of that. Uh so as we recognize this Mr. Disto what action are we taking other than future I was going to make a motion to draft the resolution in support of the for next month for next month if that's the way we we would do it. I believe so since it's not on the agenda. Correct. Okay. I'd make that motion to ask the town clerk to draft a resolution supporting the uh resolution opposition to bill the opposition to that bill. Yeah. Bill the numbers right there

where we we'll have an appropriate y resolution for you. I second that. All in favor? I discussion. Oh discussion please. Sorry. Well, this bill, I mean, the legislature is out of session for this year. It's been introduced multiple years in a row now, and it never gets out of committee. Is there a pressing need to pass this resolution or any resolution on a bill that doesn't go anywhere? I think there is to make sure everybody knows where we stand and we support our veterans. That's why I'm voting for it. I mean, we I I suppose, but I'm just thinking that it creates more paperwork. But it's just my thoughts. Uh, all in favor? I

I any nazs? Okay. Again. Next we have old business discussion and action regarding zoning ordinance amendment referral to the planning board and advertisement for public hearing kennels dog daycare Michael Monty Esquire Ser Regan and Fairy. Hi, come on down. Good evening, Mr. President and members of the council. Michael Monty on behalf of the petitioner. Uh, so this was before you, I believe, about a month ago. Last month. Yes.

Yes. Um, so we formalized our request to make a petition to make kennel dog daycare permitted by special use permit in the manufacturing district. Uh my client Ashley Souza has secured a lease in the manufacturing district uh to operate as such, but unfortunately she came to learn that dog daycarees and kennels are not a permitted use anywhere uh in the town of Warren. Um so we drafted a proposal for your consideration. um would love to hear if there's any feedback on that before it goes to the planning board and then if there's a positive recommendation there uh it would come back for you. The only other thing I'll add is that um because my client is already under existing lease obligations um we would request that you forward it to the planning board for its October 27th meeting if at all possible um just to expedite the process. I don't see any reason why what happens tonight wouldn't be forwarded right along.

Mr. Desist though, that's reasonable. You have the time. Yes. Uh, are there any questions of the applicant? We did this last month. Yeah. I'm just looking through here and I don't see anything that limits the amount of animals allowed at the facility under the special use requirements. There's no square footage per animal or maximum. I think that the applicant had said 20 at the last language here though. There's no language under the what they're requiring for the special use permit that and I'm not I don't know what the number is, but there should be some type of a measurement. You know, so many square foot per animal. I don't know what how much square feet does a dog need. Yeah, I understand. Yes,

question. So, um, the proposal was based largely on on what the Bristol ordinance currently reads as, and I'm advised that there are state requirements to that point in order to get the license to operate. Um, and we can be prepared when we go before the planning board, when we come back before you to describe those requirements in greater detail, and if appropriate, add those into the criteria as well. Um, I think that makes sense. You might might want to include a fee in there too. There's as in a license. Oh, it's a 250 in the 250 application fees. Do you mean an annual fee, Anthony? Yes. Wouldn't that be done under licensing or something?

Could be. Yes, but I probably could we sister draft an ordinance to require a license for these as well? We could. I just wanted to This Mr. Monty was kind enough to say, do you have any comments? And that's one of the comments that I have. All right. was keeping track. All right, I got it. I think I got the motion, too. May I just ask, is your um the lease holder is your landlord being uh helpful with you? Unfortunately, not. I'm paying rent. It's unfortunate.

Miss uh Flanigan is up. I'll only point out that next week's planning board hearing is going to be a continuence of the settler's green and there's a lot of new documents that are coming in and there's um probably going to be a lot of discussion that hasn't yet wrapped up. Um I just want to give the heads up that I don't know what the agenda looks like going into that meeting. Um it hasn't been sent out yet. I hope we can get this in, but I don't want to make any promises even if it's on the agenda that we get it through

based on based on the fact that you have that settller's green application on for that next week's meeting and perhaps a special meeting for the planning board may be in order. That's something he can discuss with the chair. You don't think we could simply urge Mr. the mass move agenda and move this up on the agenda considering they're already paying uh rent and warrant. Yeah, I don't I don't think you'd be barking up the wrong tree on that. Um it's it's a request. It's not a command. So, uh uh hopefully they'll take care of your business rather quickly. Uh any other questions of the applicant?

Mr. Hanley, please. I have a motion to forward this uh zoning change to the planning board. Uh I would like to see some language under the special use requirements that sets the limits either on the number of dogs or square footage per animal. And I would also like the director to draft the sister ordinance requiring a licensing a kennel licensing uh annual kennel license with the appropriate fee. Is there a second? Second. All in favor?

And uh as you heard, let's please ask u and include the um hardships that unfortunately are going on so that Mr. Massie understands uh the hopefully putting it ahead on the agenda and and getting it taken care of. And and does that motion include uh putting it on a future meeting of the council for a public hearing? It should. It should. And also I'll make a separate motion because that one already passed. I'll make a motion we put this for public hearing at a future date. Is there a second? Second. All in favor? Thank you for being there twice. Thank you for your time.

Got a good lawyer there. Okay. Next discussion and action regarding the installation of a crosswalk at the corner of Main Street and Kumer Avenue. Uh the action that I'm asking for is simply uh sending this to the traffic commission so that they can give uh their input and then uh it would be on record that we could then send to the state. Uh I got an email from someone who's been in uh interactions with the state and what was brought to their attention is that the town needs uh to be part of this request process. So uh Mr. Wheeler, you said that this area is being under consideration now.

Yeah. So, I need if you could please email and the phone call went to the project manager for the Main Street project. Um, I've not heard back from her yet. Uh, but I did want to bring it up to her that we could try to get this included in that project instead of having them spend an additional set of safety funds. And it's not a guarantee, but it's a request, right? because I don't want to see them finish this project and then approve a crosswalk and put it in after the fact and do something to mess up the new project. Correct. So, is there a motion to motion refer the crosswalk at Kuma Street to the traffic commission? Second. All in favor?

Thank you. Next, we have Mr. Bolster. We're going to have a report and an update from the affordable housing advisory committee uh in regards to uh everything you've put together. Uh good evening, members of the council. Um, yeah, we got an email last week uh asking us to come in and and give you an update uh I don't know if there was some confusion. We had provided a full update back in May uh that we gave to you and I read here at the podium. So, I have copies of that, but that was Well, I'm not sure we're confused. We were just looking for an update on, you know, maybe there have been um additions. Maybe you have

Yeah. So, that's fine. Um, so, uh, we have reached out to about half a dozen property owners in town to discuss affordable housing ideas. Um, typically those are properties that are either for sale or that somebody has referred to us for one reason or another. Um we have uh as mentioned in the update back in May uh we did put a list together of properties in town that um uh for lack of a better term have are e eitherow in other words they've already been bulldozed uh or they may be buildings that are uh have potential for other expansion or redevelopment. Um so for example uh and most of those properties have been either listed for sale or in some way uh have been somehow in the public uh discussion. Uh when we put the initial survey list together back uh earlier this summer. Um those were really properties that uh were uh discovered, if you will, by walking around, driving around town uh and and just taking note using all the plat maps uh to take a survey. So uh there's no other criteria that those properties have had uh to be uh in that survey. And so other than the properties that have been publicly listed for sale, uh we're not so sure that it's uh would be appropriate to discuss those properties publicly and um because these people may not have any interest in selling their properties or redeveloping them or anything, you know, it's so forth. um

if the council would like to uh discuss some of those other properties uh specifically uh in a in a private uh sess setting or executive session or something like that, I think, you know, that's certainly what the board would be happy to do. Um but I think in terms of respecting the property owners uh privacy rights, I think that's um that's what that's what we that was our gut feeling um that we should not be posting a list of such properties publicly. So Mr.

So there you don't have a list of recommended sites or or or properties in town that would be ideal for developing into affordable housing. We have a list of possible sites, but the only reason they're on that list, as I said, is that they are either fallow or or have visibly potential for redevelopment in some way. Do we have that list? No, but we can provide that. But as as as brought that, why why don't we have a copy of it? If if this was if that was what you were charged to do, why don't we have a copy? Well, we weren't charged to do that. We were just charged to come in and provide an update.

No, originally I thought you were the point looking for locations suitable for affordable housing. Right. That's what we've done and that's what I think that's what Mr. Cronin's referring to. Yeah. So so we can provide that list to the to the council if if if that's what you want. Absolutely. Sure. because what we're hoping to do is uh have interaction with those uh possible land owners and sites because we want to try to be proactive in this process, right? And have some say in what's happening. So, I think that's originally was bringing up. So, that'd be great. Let me May I make a suggestion? Please, Mr. Send send it to me personally. Okay.

We'll distribute it to you on an attorney client privilege basis. that will allow us to make an analysis of uh uh what's um appropriate for this uh type of activity before it does in fact get to be public. Okay. Yeah, we had drafted the letter that we've been sending out to various property owners. Uh we didn't want to take on there's roughly 50 or more properties on the list. We didn't want to take them all on at once. So, we've reached out to about a half a dozen considerable ones, including some that were publicly listed for sale. Um, so, all right. Well, thank you.

You're welcome. Next, we have uh town manager. We have discussion and action authorization for the town council president to sign the property damage release and settlement of a claim received from AGI Construction, Inc., TAK Construction Company, and Lex Doll, Inc. for the damage to the sewer line located on the corner of Main Street and Weaten Street which occurred on July 17th, 2025.

Thank you, Mr. President. Um, as you said, this was uh night work that was being done by AGI uh for uh National Grid, replacing the gas line. While they were doing that construction, they damaged a uh sewer uh lateral. Um the town sewer department had to respond. uh we had to uh uh repair that damage um and pay for that damage uh which was $2,500. We've since uh we filed a claim with AGI and in order for us to get reimbursed from AGI, they're requiring that we sign this release to assist out. All right. Is there a motion to have me?

No, I have a question. Oh, please. I'm looking at the cover sheet. Why does it say state of New York, County of Bristol? Yeah, I think we all have the same question. Yeah, it's on the front. Uh, I did not notice that. Uh, but I will reach out to AGI and and uh it shouldn't be New York. It should be Warren. This was Rhode Island, Bristol County. This is this this is an AGI document. I'm sorry. I don't have that. Uh, okay. I just have the release and settlement claim. I didn't catch it either. I didn't catch it either because right on the right of it, it says representative of the town warrant. Uh, good eyes, Mr. Hanley and Mr. Trumley and all those who saw it.

I will make a motion to authorize the town manager to sign the release pending the correction of the document. Second. All in favor? Thank you. Next, discussion and action regarding new sales tax on short-term parking service providers. Yeah. Yes, Mr. President, this is uh was part of the uh budget that was passed um which uh went into effect, this section went into effect October 1st of this year, which requires a sales tax on short-term parking, and that will affect the town of Warren with our beach parking. Um which will require us to charge 7% sales tax. We don't What do we normally get? $10 a day.

Uh I believe it is $10. Yes. 70 cents. 70 cents per one. uh is the rec director here. You may want to make sure you increase the fees by at least 7% next year. Well, I did um yeah, so I I uh I know that uh the epoxy and rec director is working with her organization to try to come up with a solution to this problem. And I did speak to some other uh representatives of communities that do have similar situations, be beach parking, Bristol being one, and then uh they told me that they were just going to incorporate that and they were going to pay for the 7% sales tax, leave the the parking fee at $10 and and

absorb the 77 and correct that change or go to 11. Go to 11. And yeah, ours goes to 11. Yeah. I think the the problem with that would be trying to Yeah. change and and uh Yeah. So, what do you want to do? Well, we can't really do anything. We got I just wanted to bring this to your attention. Thank you. Next, we have recognition of Amy Curtain's clerk finance department completion of the state and municipal finance academy professional development program at University of Rhode Island.

Yes, Mr. President. as you uh are aware that there are some challenges of getting finance uh people in Rhode Island uh getting them uh trained and uh being able to apply for jobs. uh one of the uh uh areas where or or an idea that had developed was that the uh state of Rhode Island municipal finance and URI and the Rhode Island leagues of cities and towns got together and put together a program. Um this program was the first uh that this fall was the first program uh and we were fortunate to have uh Amy Curtain involved in that. Um it was a seven-week program uh three hours uh each week. Um and they had tasks to do and uh work as teams and um I believe that uh the town of Warren, Amy and our finance department have benefited uh immensely from this program. And I just wanted to recognize uh Amy for first of all it was volunteer. it it was not required and uh she volunteered to go to it and she did an outstanding job and I just wanted to make sure that the council was aware that

we have employees that uh we applaud her and her efforts and her completion. So thank I will yes you should have clapped. Um, it's okay. Uh, next we have Peacock TM5. Thank you. Discussion and action. An authorization for the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank to pay contractors directly from the Municipal Resiliency Program grant and to establish a line of credit with the infrastructure bank. Great news.

Uh, yes, Mr. President. As you recall, you uh had uh tasked myself and the finance director to look into this. Um we've had discussions with the infrastructure bank. Um and this is actually geared towards the uh JS Park uh project. Uh and so the infrastructure bank uh will be able to give us a line of credit for $250,000. um we would be able to draw down on that credit uh and then request reimbursement from the grants. Two grants that require us to to uh spend the money up front first before we can get reimbursed. Uh once we get that reimburse uh reimbursement back uh we give that to the uh infrastructure bank and then they will recharge our line of credit. Um there is a um

1% one 1.5% yes uh uh initiation or origination fee. Uh I did check with the uh infrastructure bank and that um would be collected at the loan closing and would be uh $3,750. I think we can handle that. Yeah, thank God we're going to be bang for the buck move those projects forward hopefully in the spring of 26 which I can't believe is around the corner. Um I'm not wrong, right? Spring of 26 is it's coming. So uh great Mr. Dysto, do we need an action now to accept that or is that going to come to us and then we accept it?

You need to vote now. All right. Is there a motion to approve? Do we need to to authorize the town manager to sign the correct? Yes. To sign their line of credit application with Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank. Correct. Is there a second? Second. All in favor? Is there discussion? All in favor? Thank you. Thank you, Mr. President. Good work. Thank you, Mr. Solicitor. Discussion and action on subregation claim from progressive home ASI. This is from a Kelsey Fister.

Yes. Uh you know this the uh um problem with this claim is that the work that was done was by a uh contractor for the town as opposed to the town. The um uh company uh uh paid uh Progressive paid on the homeowner's policy was subregated to the claim of the homeowner to the contractor. They asked for a certificate of insurance from the contractor and they didn't receive one. That's why they're proceeding against the town. So, I would uh uh recommend uh uh proceeding with this on a stepped approach. Uh step one is have the manager and the uh DPW director uh contact uh this contractor get the certificate of insurance and send it over to Progressive. failing that then the matter has to be referred to the interlocal trust for adjustment.

Is there a motion to reflect? Question. Question Mr. It was AGI. I bought AGI was the contractor. No, the contractor for Rhode Island Energy National. So then why are they even going after us? I don't know why they're because it was a sewer line that we repaired. Understood. I like my my my recommendation holds. Yeah. Okay. Yeah. So, my question is in the email it says the town of Bristol Yeah. was replacing gas lines. I I got to tell you there's about five different um there's about five different reasons why we should return. No, there's about five different um explanations for what happened here. Okay. So, to me, we know who the contractor was.

Okay. Get their certificate of insurance. Failing that, have the trust adjusted because this this is a complete mess. I'll make a motion for that effect. I will second that messy motion. All in favor? I I Thank you. Next discussion and action on the Karen Antony versus Marshall CA number PC 2025 04675 referral to the trust claim only previously referred to the trust. That's correct. Karen attorney has a very able lawyer who you know if you watch TV as Ronbo

and uh uh they did file a statutory notice of claim. You referred that to the trust. Uh you've been uh served um with this complaint that also needs to be referred to the trust and I ask that you do as such. Motion to refer to the trust. I will second. All in favor? I is this woman that fell on water street tripped on the curb or something? I think so. Yes.

Next we have uh discussion and action on proposed ADU zoning ordinance amendment. This is chapter 32 article 8 zoning district use regulations. Section 32-47 residential uses article 24 accessory dwelling units. Section 32131 accessory dwelling units by right.

Yes. Here's the thing. Uh this um is a very significant change to the zoning amendment. It's your third zoning amendment on for tonight. The reason that I uh recommended that it be under solicitor as opposed to ordinance uh was to highlight that fact. This is something that uh the town every town needs to do based on the legislation that has been passed by the general assembly. This ordinance will bring your ordinance into compliance with the relevant um uh amendments to the general laws. Uh that said, this is a significant step. It will have um significant implications for land use in the town. So, what I'm going to recommend that you do tonight is to have this matter referred uh to um the uh building official and Miss Ring who has been assisting you on planning uh so that they can give you a report as to uh the effects that this will have on your community. Uh the my uh advice would be to have that for your next meeting and then uh set the matter down for the planning board and then a public hearing in December so you can get this done before year end which is really the um uh deadline in the general assembly. Now I worked with Councilman Trombbley on this. Uh he uh was uh uh actually uh uh authoring most of this. I've taken a look at it. It complies with state law. Uh but if he wants to say anything, I think that that's appropriate.

Before he does, I'd like to ask where in here does it take uh consideration of the use of the sewer treatment facility impact study? Is there any? No, it's not would not be part of the ordinance. That's something you do separately.

But isn't it rather important if we're going to create an ordinance that increases housing that we don't we have an impact study at the sewer treatment facility? It it's not this is this is this is uh one part of um increase uh an increase in housing in the town. You have other segments that will have even a greater impact as we see with Settlers Green which the planning board is going to be taking up uh very shortly. So to me that's something that has to be townwide and I uh don't think it's a good idea to just focus on one aspect of housing production in the town. I think you need to do it for every every one of them.

Right. So, don't we need a maybe I didn't put my question properly. Don't we need a sewer uh an impact study? Correct. But not um embedded in this ordinance. Yeah. No, I meant in general. Oh, you definitely need it. You absolutely need that. Like first and foremost, Mr. Johnley.

Yes. So, um, General Assembly passed legislation in their last, uh, not this past one, but the prior one about, um, accessory dwelling units, which, as I'm sure the council is aware, public may not be aware, accessory dwelling units are granny flats, uh, little houses sometimes referred to. Basically, the idea is that folks can used to be able to in in days gone by is that uh the parents would move into basement, an attic, a spare room that was convert, a garage, shed into that has been converted into a separate living space and their children or relatives would move into the larger abode that they need for kids and whatnot and everyone would live together. It's a great use of space and it works particularly I feel in communities like ours you know pro projects such as settller's green such as Penny Lane such as you know you can name off the last ones over the last five years have caused a lot of opposition in the community from various groups and persons and what I found is that when you have one development with 200 units it's very scary it's there's a lot of concerns but when you have 200 unit uh two same 200 units but over 200 different locations spread out and part of just gentle upzoning. It makes people more comfortable with it. It adds to the character of the community. It helps uh ease the tensions. I mean, we're at half a million dollars for the average cost of a home in in Warren, which is more than double what it was 10 years ago. So, we do have to take some action, and I believe that this is the right way to do it for our community. Um, as in terms of the sewer impact statement, I agree with the solicitor that it can't just be related to ADUs. It has to be all types of homes, which I agree with council uh, council president Deepas Wall should be done. Um, so this was my attempt to sort

of incorporate that into our local ordinances sort of the same way I tried with the noise ordinance. So I do welcome any input and how this can be made better, how this can be made to fit our community and uh, but Mr. Uh the solicitor is correct that by law we have to get this on the books by uh January of 21 or excuse me January of 26. Uh so we have uh we have very limited time. So it's important to get this uh moving. Uh not this meeting but the subsequent meeting. Mr. Hanley.

Yes. I have a I'm just looking it through this quick. Uh I mean it like G on page I don't know what page is. It says all street parking spaces shall not be required more than one per bedroom. Shouldn't our ordinance say we require one per ADU instead of it's it's like this is what the state's telling us we have to do, but we can say that where we can require one spot. I think that language is going to need to be changed. I think I copied that directly from the statute, but I'd be happy if it's for verbiage reasons to

Well, it says shall not be required more than one. Says shall so you can zero is less is not more than one. So that could be interpreted. You could have zero. I needed to say you have to have one.

And the other thing I have is that I don't see in here and it may be I just because I'm familiar with this because we've got a new we've drafted a bunch of changes already in the city where I work and a detached accessory structure. Uh it's going to be it's more relevant where I work. But as long as you stay within the existing footprint, you're fine. You need no zoning relief. But if you expand that structure in any way, shape, or form in the community where I work, it now has to meet 100% of the required primary structure setback. So in other words, if you've got a garage that's 4 foot from the property line and you just want to put an ADU in there and you're not going to make it bigger or taller, you're good to go. If you want to put a 15t addition on the back and you're only 4 foot from the property line, that's a no-go. You need dimensional relief because that structure is non-conforming once it kicks into the primary setbacks. That's the way it's set up in my community.

That's one of the reasons why that is accurate. That is accurate. That's correct. I didn't see that. I want that clearly noted in here because it's it's just it it's confusing enough when it leaves like May instead of Shell and you know that that's one of the reasons why I had wanted this to be um reviewed by the building official and your planning consultant who's a very good planning consultant by the way. Yeah, we definitely do need this. No question. So the action tonight is to uh consultation and move it forward. So refer the matter to the building official and the planning consultant for a report at your next uh council meeting. Is there a motion? I'll make that motion. I'll second that. All in favor? I.

Okay. Next brings us to discussion and action regarding the status on the foot of Washington Street. Washington Street, uh, excuse me, Water Street West to the shore of the Warren River. Um, Mr. Disto, you want to intro introduce us on this issue?

Yes. And I'll I'll make some brief comments on it. Uh, you know, this is something I've actually worked on for uh many, many years. Washington Street was originally laid out as King Street, and that was before the Revolutionary War. And after the war, it was renamed for uh George Washington. Uh the area that uh is the subject of this matter uh starts at the uh western edge of Water Street and proceeds down to the um shore and essentially bisects the uh marina that is that is there. uh this has been uh the ownership of that property has been u a subject that has been in dispute for some time and has been the subject of litigation recently however uh the owner of the the um marina Mr. Crochi has approached me uh with his attorney and suggested a compromise uh which I think is something that uh the town should seriously consider and that is uh the town would um the town would wave all of its right title and interest that it may have uh to that portion of what I call the foot of Washington Street uh to Mr. court troy and in exchange for that uh he would grant the town a a walking easement for the public along with a uh park bench down there. Uh he would also agree uh to take care of the remediation that is being um requested by DEM uh in this area because of the industrial uh uh thing in the past. The DEM is looking for remediation in what's known as an ELUR, an environmental land use restriction.

Uh the town would also uh obtain an easement for a drainage um pipe that is underneath that portion of Washington Street and some repairs have to be undertaken. Then uh I have uh had some discussions with Mr. Crochief's lawyer. Depending upon the council's action tonight, uh we can proceed to uh the documentation phase of this so that we can put this into effect. Uh after all the years of uh dealing with this uh including through two lawsuits, uh I actually recommend that uh we undertake it at this time. I think it's in the best interest of the town. Uh the public will still have the ability to traverse down um that portion of the foot of Washington Street uh to the shoreline. So no public access is lost. Uh the town will not have uh the um uh um burden in responsibility to maintain that. That has been in um one of the flash points of this uh controversy because Mr. Crochi has been uh maintaining the area. The town has not. Uh so I do think that there's benefits for the town in this. I recommend that you do it. I'd be happy to answer any questions you uh may have. I've been working on this for years and years.

Is does Mr. Cartruchi own both sides? All right. So, nobody else. It's just him that would need access on that road. Not Not only doesn't he own um both sides at the shoreline. Uh but he also now owns on both sides of that area, that area um of what I call the foot of Washington Street that are on the west that's on the western side of Water Street. He owns on both sides. Now, isn't it I didn't see it here or that you said we're not granting an easement. He's taking over responsibility of the storm water line that's there and he's going to he's going to maintain it.

All right. I I I may have misspoken here. Yeah, there is an easement now, but we're abandoning that.

Mr. Guyrochi is going to take on the responsibility of that storm water uh drain as well as the installing the required catch basin by DEM at the bottom as well as taking over ownership of the seaw wall and leaving us free and clear of any legal argument to its condition to its future to its status. I feel like it's a private driveway that's going there and it has the potential of opening up a remediation aspect as well as uh cost associated with the lack of better words lack of maintenance that we've applied to the wall and the pipe. So if Mr. Quattrochi's in agreement with that, I I have I think it's a win.

I stand corrected. Thank you, Mr. Tromley. Um, out of curiosity, in terms of the taxable value of this parcel, I know I it seems like the council is going to move this forward. Do we think that the tax assessor might be able to provide an assessment in terms of what this what the taxes will be from this parcel each year from Mr. I'm going to tell you this, it's it's uh, of course, it hasn't been taxed previously, right? Uh but based upon uh my limited knowledge of of assessment and I defer to your assessor uh the the amount of taxes are going to be negligible I assume so I just would like to know the exact figure if that's all right would it be contingent or now not contingent just

so okay that that that could be given yeah um are there any uh Mr. Quattro, do you have anything you want to add to that? Anybody here from uh the public who'd like to discuss? Feel free. Davidson, come on down. Thank you. Um could we just make one condition that uh and the reason I say this is because currently from the public's perspective, people don't know whether that's public or not. There's a lot of signs that say, you know, trespassing and this and that.

And historically, it has been public for 300 years or whatever. So, could we just say that uh all those no trespassing signs are not up front so that and that that we I know the town is in the process of putting granite markers that say public right ofway or what have you uh at public access points. Uh could we make sure that that's part of this uh deal if that's we can probably do it right now. Mr. Quattrochi, would you be in agreement with a small marker saying this is a walking easement to the public denoting the fact?

I I mean I know you got bad hips and knees, but I think for the record if you've said yes, Mr. Dysto, does he have to come forward? No, that would be part of the agreement that we'd uh execute with with What I what I believe we're looking for tonight is to allow the solicitor to finalize with Mr. Quattrochi uh the exacts of what we're doing instead of trying to put it on the fly. But the uh big picture of what we're doing here is really taking something out of a question mark that's been ignored by the town's perspective and preventing a lawsuit with that wall falling in and um all of that there. So I think it's a benefit we're getting. Yeah.

Public access walking easement. Yeah. Thank you. I just want to make sure that the public is very clear about that when it's all done. It'll be crystal clear. Thank you. Uh Miss Flanigan had a her hand up. It'll be as clear as granite, not crystal clear, etched in stone. So, I I caveat this with being a newcomer to town. I've only been here 10 years, so I don't know the history uh here. Um the seaw wall that is at the end of what is ostensively Washington Street, when did that go up? Do we know? In its original state, Mr. Quattrogi can tell us, but it's been in contention of who owns it. Yes. Yes.

Uh please, since we're making you get up, come to the microphone.

Thank you, Jack Quattrochi. Excuse me. Um that is a fieldstone. was originally a fieldstone seaw wall. Um the area was the location of the coal storage for the power plant that drove the mill. Um and um it has been repaired by me or my father three times in the last 75 years because the charge of water that comes down that street is overwhelming. Uh the proposal that I'm going to bring to CRMC um which I think is in the plan that I submitted to the town will be a steel uh sheeting wall that will withstand the water. There are no catch basins on Washington Street from the library down. There are three small catch basins at the intersection of Washington and the foot of uh of Water Street and the foot of Washington. So there's a tremendous charge of water that comes down there and and we just have to deal with it. I can't keep fixing these walls. Um and uh so that's part of the reason

your question's been it was original field stone. It's been repaired. The legal question has been for the 23 years I've been sitting here 22 years is who owns it. It's gone back and forth because these two fine gentlemen have played legal paddle ball with the issue. But there's been a seaw wall there for a century probably. Yes.

And it's on ledge and it's probably the reason why the main bulkhead is still there. Uh that's laid field stone. So, as as someone who uses the boat launch at the commercial dock at the end of Weeden Street, um you know, I am sad to see an opportunity for public access to the water disappear at the end of Water Street since I live on street. No, this this if you go down if you go down if you actual access into Right. But if I if I may, if you go down that driveway,

on the left is private property. It's a brick building. On the right is private property. It's a house. As you continue on that driveway, the private property is now the driveway you're on, as well as both sides. It's a very great legal argument. They've fought it for 22 years. It's a It's a driveway. It doesn't go to the water. Believe me, if it were, you'd be hearing me say we need to get money to make it better and this that and the other thing. Okay. So, my second question is uh if that's the case, if that's the judgment of council and everyone else, then the Harbor Commission has no standing to comment on this. No. Okay.

I mean, they over the years they've created an opinion. Uh it it doesn't impact my two questions. So, thank you. I mean, well, let me make sure it's on the record correctly. Yes, they could have an opinion. They have had an opinion. They have shared their opinion with the solicitor and probably even Mr. Quattrochi. At this venture, at this point, we're accepting the fact that we don't want the wall, we don't want the pipe, we don't want the remediation, and we don't want the piece of asphalt on top of it. Okay. Thank you. I consider us an you know, we're we're we're in on top of an issue. Like I said, new come to town, so

we wouldn't be giving away something that uh would be an advantage to the public. U Are there any other questions? No. Is there a motion to accept this offer and allow the solicitor to participate in drafting the language? I'll second. All in favor? I. Here we go. Next. Finance directive fiscal year 202526 revenues and expenditures. Anybody see anything in here that is uh mysterious? Hopefully they're all solid. Yep. It's good. Thank you for that. And the cash balance report.

Yep. Um I re redesigned it a little bit. Group the the types of um balances together. Just make a little reporter. Good. Thank you. Mr. Rego is going to be so excited when he sees this. Yeah, it's very He's already seen a comment. Yeah, it's easy to read and it looks good. Thank you. Okay, next we have the tax assessor getting up from our seat over there. Discussion and action regarding authorization with the town council president to sign an agreement with catalyst regarding software subscription fees. and say you

so because we don't have a server now we're on the cloud I have to get the web- based um camera system so that's what that so the cost is 23100 3300 correct and that's something we need to to do what we're doing yes so it's not really an open to discussion although we can have it where is it coming from uh budget cover it okay any other questions Always important question. Mr. Hanley's on it. Uh, is there a motion to accept? Motion. I'll second. All in favor?

Thank you. Next, we have an abatement to the 25 tax role in the amount of 1,6838 59934 lowered assessment due to condition of interior tax appeal and 46904 lowered assessment due to condition of elevator tax appeal. So, the uh total amount, I believe they're the same uh person, or does it matter? No, it's two different people. Two different people. The total amount is the same. $1,68.38. Is there a motion? I'll make a motion to abate the 2025 tax roll in that amount. There a second. All in favor?

Next, we have favorites. An addition 25 tax roll in the amount of 549 37 cents subdivision of lots. I'll make a motion we add to the 2020 2025 tax roll $549.37 for the subdivision of blocks. Second. All in favor? Hi. Okay. Next. Recreation director. How are you doing? She waits till she gets to the microphone. See? How you doing?

Good. Good. discussion and action for the approval of Blunt Fine Foods to use Bersill Park on Saturday, June 20th, 26, the annual Blunt Family Appreciation Day and Community Concert. It's a good event always. Yes. So, traditionally they had used um or uh the Pete Septic Pavilion, correct? But they outgrew that facility. Todd Blount is here if you would like him to speak to it uh and what his plans are. F Nelson, Todd, you want to come down? I'll be brief. Todd Brown, Clown Fine Foods, Water Street. Yeah, we started the East Bay Rod and this has been like a 60-year tradition. Yeah.

East Bay Rod and Gun Club uh pizza pavilion. We've been up at the um Boys and Girls Club in Taunt the last five years. About 750 people. We used to be a Clan Bake, I'm sorry, it's not Clam Bake anymore, family day. And uh we're looking to we're we're doing a feasibility study working with Terara to see if we can do it at Burill Park. Now that we moved our headquarters back to Warren, we're trying to get it back into the town. At

the same time, we have a theme every year. Last year was camping. The year before was the Olympics. It's like field day. This year is festival. Um not like New Orleans festival, but like concert. So we're looking also to have some live music. And then at the same time, we're working with the recck department to see if we can combine the second half of the day to more of a public event. So employee appreciation about 750 people in the morning and then um ideally moving into some kind of more public time. Sounds great.

So I was thinking of for an event like this and maybe even other events, should we have a uh part-time or not part-time um a dumpster? We have a large list of items that All right, good. Because I was just thinking, you know, we know we're gonna have people doesn't have to live there forever, but uh part-time dumpster would be great. Yeah, good idea. That I'm going to refer to the DPW director. We're doing the feasibility of the large list that the rec department recommends on the police detail trash.

All right. Well, I guess uh maybe we'll put it in the form of a motion up here. I think if there's a big enough event, we should have a dumpster, especially if somebody's coming forward to utilize it. It'll ease your day. You, you know, everything just goes in the dumpster. Um, paid for the dumpster. They are. Yeah. Oh, yeah. This is It's 100%. We're also looking, it's our 80th anniversary as a company. It's the 250th announce. So, we'd be adding all these kind of special. Please send me an invitation. Yeah. Um, I think they should get a dump tank for you. Yeah. Well, I'm the number one money maker in the dump tank. You either love me or hate me, but a couple gross balls. People love to throw things at me. Oh, well. So, uh, we have a motion to approve

or we can have a motion to approve contingent. I'll make a motion we approve contingent upon the recreation director, Mr. Blunt, police and fire to work out the normal things that they need to work out for event. Bring it back to us for final approval. Yep. But you got the green light from here. So, work on it. I appreciate it. Is there a second? I'll second that. All in favor? I. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Next, we have discussion and action for the approval of all tier sauna to provide a mobile sauna experience at the Warrentown Beach or Burillo Park from November to May. And there's a fee for the usage.

So, uh, Kayla was not able to join us tonight. She's not feeling well. Um but you all were received the information on what she would like to do. Um it is something that takes place down at um Southshore Beach. She does have her home base is over on Cole Street um already. So she would like this uh idea to come to the Warren Town Beach and um it's a mobile unit um theater and wood and it looks pretty.

Yes. and it go it uh would be brought back to 51 Cool Street each evening. Um she's looking to do Saturdays and Sundays. Um possibly adding maybe mornings during the week if there is success or a need. Um she will have an employee on site during operational hours. Um again it is during the winter spring months and um all the booking is done through her. she had uh she provides the insurance uh with the manager. We did speak about adding a fee because she is charging uh to use uh she's charging to use it. So that is one thing that um we also discussed.

I unfortunately came up with a it may not be so um such a good idea on her end or your end or whatever. We need to include uh the bathrooms and I know that our bathrooms aren't open because of personnel. Um I don't know. I don't think they're winterized. I think they're year roundapable. Year round capable or do we I Well, if we're gonna I otherwise we got to heat the space year round

or we have to get a portage. I mean, I don't know. All I know is if we're going to support and sponsor something that's inviting people to come be in a sauna, go in our beach, we have to be the town who supplies or incorporates into the business plan use of a restroom. I would also, if I may, if please um I'll just direct this to the solicitor. Is there any liability concerns that we have with this? Is there anything that they'd have to sign uh for the town's sake? Well, I I know Tower always asks for a certificate of insurance. So, that's the COI that we discussed earlier, and I'm sure she'd do it here. Okay. So, the Sona wouldn't put us in any heat. Okay. All right.

You know, I Tara sweats the details. I know she does. And Mr. Desist is actually going to participate because why not? Well, I got to tell you, you know, Donna Shore Beach, they don't have any restroom facilities. Oh, but you know, but it's loaded, right? There's people going there. Yeah. No, it's it's become very popular. I think it's worth the discussion. And we also are going to work with uh Brian Wheeler on the location, but even if it's a even if it's a porter john that has to be there next to the shed, I just think that

did we do we have an idea what the fee would be to charge? No, but if we can incorporate that idea in I just I can't imagine going someplace to and then not being able to if I had to go to the bathroom uh while I participate in a sauna experience. So that's So the sauna experience is only an hour and a half, right? But then you're going in the water coming out. I don't you know how do you know there's no public restroom in Westerly? No, Southshore Beach. Southshore. There is no they do not have restrooms. the the message from the Little Compton Town Council. I want you to know that this activity is hot right now. All right. Um, is there a motion to allow I just have one other question? Please, Mr. Tribe. Um, for the solution,

get us out of the hot water. The puns. Uh, is there since this is kind of a health related thing, is there any Department of Health regulations or anything that that the applicant's going to have to go through? Am I if I'm setting you up for one of these, I'm going to start throwing this pen at you? No. Good. So, is there a motion to approve? Motion. Second. All in favor? I I. And next, we have discussion and action to begin Monday, November 10th's meeting of the town council at 6 PM. And everybody remember second Tuesday is Veterans Day. So, our meeting is on Monday and it'll start at 6. And I have a motion to that effect. Motion.

Second. All in favor? I have a motion reg.

Oh, no. Thank you, Mr. Chief. You're always thinking to speak. So, honorable members of the Warren Town Council, request for traffic impact study and compliance review prior to ordinance amendment medic and market street cars. Honorable members of the council, I respectfully submit this letter for inclusion in the public record regarding any proposed ordinance change that may alter or affect traffic conditions within the Medicum Avenue and Market Street corridors. I urge the council to require a comprehensive independent traffic impact study prior to approving any such change. Traffic within these corridors is already operating at or near maximum capacity during peak hours. Any additional development, zoning amendment, or land use modification without a proper engineering study risks worsening congestion, compromising emergency vehicle access, and increasing the likelihood of vehicular and pedestrian accidents. As a condition of any future approval, it is recommended that the council confirm that all traffic control devices, signalized intersections, and roadway timing systems in the affected areas are fully operational, properly synchronized, and capable of managing both existing and projected volumes. Failure to ensure these systems are compliant could sign significantly heighten town's exposure to preventable safety hazards and potential legal claims. Applicable standards and regulatory requirements in accordance with our DOT, the US Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration guidelines as defined in the manual on uniform traffic control devices. Any modification impact roadway configuration or signal timing must be supported by a formal engineering and

safety analysis. Additionally, both NFPA fire code NFPA 1141 standard for fire protection infrastructure for land development require that intersections and roadway systems be maintained in a manner that ensures unobstructed emergency response access. Any ordinance amendment affecting these corridors without proper evaluation could be inconsistent with these recognized public safety standards. While the public duty doctrine affords municipalities protection for discretionary acts, Rhode Island case law makes clear that such protection is not absolute. Liability may arise where a municipality acts with disregard for known hazards or fails to comply with statutory or engineering standards. Hudson versus City of Providence RARI 2003 municipal immunity does not apply when a city ignores document documented safety risks or fails to meet established engineering standards. Nud Nudson versus Nudson versus Hall 490RI191 1985. Failure to maintain proper signage and sight lines may result in liability if statutory or standard safety requirements are disregarded. Toggman versus city of Providence reinforces that discretionary immunity depends on whether actions were taken with due care and consistent with accepted safety standards. Accordingly, proceeding with an ordinance change in the absence of a document the traffic study could be construed as agarious indifference to known congestion and safety risks, potentially weakening the town's protection under the public duty doctrine and exposing it to liability under RAR General Law 9311, RARI government tort liability act. Conclusion and requested actions. For these reasons, it is respectfully

requested that the town council defer any ordinance amendment affecting the Medicum Avenue or Market Street corridors until a qualified independent traffic impact study is completed and publicly reviewed. verify compliance with all relevant traffic control systems with DOT, MUTCD, and NFBA standards and obtain legal review with the town solicitor regarding potential exposure under Rhode Island case law and applicable statutory provisions. This action will ensure the town acts responsibly, protects the safety of residents and visitors, and maintains compliance with established engineering and legal standards. Thank you for your consideration and for your ongoing dedication to the welfare and safety of our community. Respectfully submitted, Stephen P. Genda, 20 Parker Avenue, Warren, Rhode Island.

Hey. Hi. What's up? I don't have anything to say about that. Oh, but I do before you adjourn. Oh, well, we have to deal with this. Okay. But before you then I'll go to you. Uh, so is there a motion to accept this as read into the record? Pretty sure in reference to the medical market study the infrastructure study second all in favor I and Mr. core, please. Before Oh, please come to the microphone, state your name, and uh your Hi. Hi. Jim Core, 82 Market Street. That's official. Uh wanted to add a comment about rescheduling the November meeting. You've moved it from Tuesday to Monday, correct?

Might you consider moving it to Wednesday? that would allow members of the council, staff, and members of the public that perhaps would take a mini vacation and be away for that long weekend to be able to do that and still participate in civic business if the meeting was on Wednesday instead of Monday.

We could ask the solicitor and we could ask the makers of the motion, I mean, not solicit, the uh clerk. So, Miss Spiron, how do you think that request sounds? But it would free us up from having the council meeting. Now, what's the six o'clock stop?

Licenses. So, um, we have new hours. Is that correct? So Monday we're open anyway and we're open in the evening because we're trying six months of a trial period. So other than getting rid of the council meeting uh Tuesday, right? But that's that that's the holiday. So is there any other event scheduled for the council chamber on the Wednesday? Okay. I mean it's a good question, but the employees are going to be here. Can I You don't care. I I I I I have one thing to say though. You know, November is your traditional uh um renewal of the licenses,

right? If there's difficulty difficulties for lences, their licenses lapse at the end of November, right? Change it anyway. It's not the Tuesday that they But it would be Wednesday instead of is you going on Monday. That gives them an extra extra day essentially to fix whatever problems they have. Please take that into would go on Wednesday, it gives them an extra day. No, takes away a day. If it was on Monday or the meeting's on Wednesday, you got Tuesday in the middle that they have to fix their prep. They know I'm not going anywhere. I'm going to be at a Veterans Day ceremony and I'll be here on Monday. Uh, it's a good point. And how does the what I mean?

Yeah. But then we wouldn't but we wouldn't officially be able to we make a motion that we reschedu the November council meeting to the Wednesday following veterans veterans day if town council chambers is available. If not we go to the Monday preceding. Yes, you actually trump anybody anyway. So, it's up to you, but we don't want to use that word or um put push somebody out. I don't think it's saying there's no planning and zoning on those days anyway. I think we're pretty

So, we can do it. So, Mr. Cole brought up a good point. What's the make of the motion? We move the November count council meeting to 6 p.m. on the Wednesday following Veterans Day. Second. I'll second it. All in favor? I. There you go. I'll make a motion that retreat anybody else that's going to be I'll make a motion to adjourn, Mr. President. Thank you. All in favor?