GOOD NEWS from the TOWN COUNCIL (5/27/2021 Meeting Notes)

APPROVED:

• by a vote of 3-2,* modified ordinance language that allows boaters to swim in mooring fields. Thanks to all the concerned citizens who emailed and to our Town Solicitor for reaching out to CRMC. NK is now the only coastal community in RI that allows boaters to swim in mooring fields.

*Anderson, Page, Mancini yea; Brimer, McKay nay

• a new liquor license for The Thirsty Beaver (future restaurant in Hunts River Commons shopping mall on Frenchtown Road)

• funding for equipment and graphics on 4 police vehicles

• contracts for Water Department engineering services, well #10 replacement and redevelopment, and well #5 emergency repairs

ACCEPTED: a 2020 carry-on trailer from the estate of the legendary Al Southwick

UNDER STUDY: the benefits of a homestead exemption. Background: state law requires us to re-assess property values next year. Because residential home prices have increased at least 20% while commercial property has gone up only marginally, homeowners may have a significant property increase—even if we do not increase spending. A homestead exemption could mitigate the increases. Please stay tuned.

TOWN NEWS OF NOTE:

• beach passes are now on sale.

• the 80 Boston Neck Road town hall project will begin in earnest; step 1 is a temporary fence around the property

• DUE TO NEWLY LIFTED COVID-19 restrictions ...

... masks are no longer required for visitors to the town municipal building.

... the Senior Center is now open!

... TWO playgrounds have reopened, with new equipment (and a few temporary restrictions still in place): Wilson Park and the town beach.

... the next Town Council meeting on June 14th is expected to be in person.

On May 31st, the town honored our fallen with Memorial Day observations at the Elm Grove Cemetery, Veterans Memorial Park, and Updike Park.