NKTC Meeting Minutes: February 12, 2024

The following is from Town Councilor Larry Mandel. As always, these are Mandel's opinions of the highlights – others may see things differently.

Council made a large number of appointments to committees and boards, including the Arts

Council, Assessment Board of Review, Conservation Commission, Harbor Management

Commission and Personnel Board. Volunteers play a huge role in making this a vibrant and

healthy community – many thanks to all who serve. There are still opportunities on several of

these boards and committees, as well as the Economic Development Advisory Board, the

Zoning Board of Review and the Compensation Commission. Service on a board or commission

need not be onerous -- if you are interested in learning more please reach out to me or another

member of the Council, or the Town Clerk for further information.

We received recommendations from the Asset Management Commission, which annually ranks

the highest needs of our community for public buildings and maintenance. Their top

recommendation (again) was for a new public safety complex, and they noted the need for

addressing the town’s middle school problem though they did not have a specific

recommendation at this time. They outlined the highest priorities for the Enterprise Funds

(specified programs that are financially self-sustaining like the golf course and Water

Department), general funds (roads, facilities, etc.) and the School Department. Lots to think

about, as we balance our needs against the resources available, mindful always of the tax

burden on our citizens.

We were briefed on progress of an art installation near the boat launching area of Wilson Park

by a group of volunteers. An unveiling is tentatively scheduled for April 28; watch for further

details.

The Town Manager briefed on several items including upcoming RIPTA public hearings on

proposed service reductions on bus routes 14, 64 and QX, construction projects that require

closure of basketball, tennis, pickleball and skateboard facilities at Wilson and McGinn Parks

(target re-opening June 1), and an “e-waste” collection event scheduled for March 9. He also

spoke to the economic impact of last year’s cyber attack, which does not appear to have

resulted in any leaked information, but cost the town and our insurer over $1 million. The

video of the meeting is, as always, available on the town’s website.

Larry Mandel, Town Councilor