Monday, June 2, 2025, at 6:30PM (Files separately under A T Spencer)
Amey Tucker Spencer Trust Fund Meeting
(Town Council Sitting in their Capacity as Trustees)
Followed by
Town Council Meeting Minutes only
Barrington Town Hall – Council Chamber
Executive Session
Video: https://vimeo.com/showcase/9672722
Attachments can be found: https://clerkshq.com/barrington-ri
Present: President Braxton Cloutier, Vice President Kate Berard, Councilwoman Liana Cassar, Councilwoman Jordan Jancosek and Councilman Kerry O’Neill
Also, Present: Town Manager Phil Hervey, Assistant Town Solicitor Amy Goins, Town Clerk Meredith J. DeSisto and Deputy Clerk Stephanie Bernardo
Department Heads: Director of Business and Finance Maryann Crawford, Police Chief Michael Correia, Fire Chief Gerald Bessette, Human Resources Director Kathleen Taraian, Library Director Kristin Chin, Director of Planning, Building and Resilience Herb Durfee III, Recreation and Senior Services Director Jean Bellm
Absent: Director of Public Works Alan Corvi and Tax Assessor Michelle DiMeo.
Council President Cloutier called the meeting to order at 6:55 P.M.
President Cloutier led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.
(Approved at the Town Council meeting on December 6, 2021, and was read into the record by President Cloutier.)
“Aquene (Peace) We recognize the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. We acknowledge that we are in the ancestral homeland of the Pokanoket Tribe within the original territory of the Pokanoket Nation. We commit to ongoing efforts to recognize, honor, reconcile and partner with the Pokanoket people whose ancestral lands and water we benefit from today. Aquene (Peace)”
TM Comment: Resolution honors Town Clerk Merrie DeSisto, who is retiring on July 10, 2025, after almost 21 years with the Town working in several positions. Throughout the years, Merrie and her staff have served the public incredibly well, which is so important to the Town given how the Town Clerk’s window is the first stop for most people who walk into Town Hall. Barrington has been lucky to have such a dedicated, diligent, hard-working professional in charge of such an important Department.
The honorary resolution highlighted details of Town Clerk DeSisto’s career, including her roles and achievements, and recognition for her service during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Town Manager Hervey presented a gift to Merrie and highlighted her dedication to the Town of Barrington and her hard work.
Town Clerk DeSisto expressed her gratitude and reflected on her 20-year tenure, acknowledging her colleagues and family.
President Cloutier expressed his appreciation for Merrie’s contributions and wished her well in her retirement.
All items with an asterisk (*) are routine by the Town Council and will be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion on these items unless a council member or citizen so request, and the request is for good cause in which event the item will be removed from the consent agenda and will be considered in its normal sequence on the agenda. Items #6-#14.
President Cloutier stated that the Consent Agenda consisted of items #6-#14 and asked if anyone from the Council would like to remove any items for discussion.
Councilman O’Neill requested to remove agenda #6 Receive Updates and Events
Vice President Berard requested that agenda item #7 Accept Resignations be removed from the Consent Agenda.
President Cloutier asked if anyone from the general public wished to remove an item for discussion from the Consent Agenda. No one came forward to request an item to be removed for comment.
Motion by President Cloutier and seconded by Vice President Berard to accept the Consent Agenda items #6-#14 with the exception of agenda #6 Updates and Events and agenda #7 Accept Resignations from the Consent agenda.
The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Councilman O’Neill removed Agenda #6 Updates and Events to thank the Veterans Advisory Committee for their efforts in organizing the Memorial Day Ceremonies and Parade.
Town Manager Hervey acknowledged the hard work of the Director of Recreation and Senior Services Department, Jean Bellm and her staff in organizing the Arts Festival and Pride event.
Town Manager Hervey announced that Deputy Clerk Stephanie Bernardo will be the new town clerk, effective July 11, 2025 after the retirement of Town Clerk Meredith DeSisto.
Councilman O’Neill, as Liaison to Conservation, highlighted an upcoming event on June 14th as the town will be picking up trash and litter in Haines Park. He invited all to attend as it should be a fun day.
Motion by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Cassar to approve Consent Agenda #6 Updates and Events in which the full list can be found in the Town Manager’s memo. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Vice President Berard removed agenda #7 Approve Resignations to highlight our wonderful volunteers. She said that we have had student representatives that have served on the Parks & Recreation Commission Ellie Donator and student representatives from the DEI Committee Truva Akara and Emily Halloran. She believes that it was a cool experience for them and encourages others to take part as a student representative on our boards and commissions. She wished them all the best after graduation from Barrington High School.
Councilwoman Cassar echoed Vice President Berard and said that it was great to have their voices and input.
Motion by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Jancosek to approve Consent Agenda #7 Approve Resignations. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions
It was voted to receive the following updates and events. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda.
· Tree Planting & Removal: May 1, 2024 to April 30, 2025 – 54 trees removed/135 trees planted.
It was voted to accept the following resignations. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda.
· 250th Anniversary of the Nation's Founding Committee: DEI Representative Kristen Linder effective immediately
· Committee on Appropriations: Tinsley Kampmier-Williamson effective immediately.
· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee: Kristen Linder effective immediately and Student Representatives Truva Akarra and Emily G. Halloran
· Parks & Recreation Commission: Ellie Donator effective immediately.
· Zoning Board of Review: Suzanne Renaud effective immediately.
It was voted to approve the following reappointments with an amendment as seen below. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda.
· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee: Paige Rahn moving from 1st alternate to a full member with an expiration of September 30, 2026.
· Planning Board: Richard Simms to be reappointed as a full member, with a term expiration date of May 31, 2028.
· Zoning Board of Review: Spencer Alexander moving from 2nd alternate to 1st alternate with a term expiration date of December 31, 2025.
Business and Finance, Fire, Human Resources, Library, Police/Animal Control, Department Of Public Works, Planning/Building And Resiliency (no reports), Recreation, Senior Services, Tax Assessor and Town Clerk:
It was voted to adopt the monthly department reports from April 2025. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda above.
(To Declare The Following Items As Surplus Property And Authorize The Town Manager, At His Discretion, To Dispose Of This Property (Discard) If It Is Not Practical To Sell In Accordance With Chapter 49 Of The Town Ordinances): (none)
It was voted to acknowledge the correspondence - no reports submitted. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda.
It was voted to accept and receive the minutes listed above. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda.
It was voted to approve the wavier as described above. See the full motion accepting the Consent Agenda above.
· 250th Anniversary of the Nation's Founding Committee: (2 vacancies: 2 full members with a term expiration date of December 31, 2027). Interviewed: Joyce Boyle
Motion by Councilwoman Berard and seconded by Councilwoman Cassar to approve the Joyce Boyle
as a full member with a term expiration date of December 31, 2027 to the 250th Anniversary of the Nation's Founding Committee. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee: (1 vacancy: 1st alternate with a term expiration date of March 31, 2027.) Interviewed Torsten Mayer-Rothbarth
Motion by Councilwoman Berard and seconded by Councilwoman Jancosek to approve the Torsten Mayer-Rothbarth as an alternate with a term expiration date of March 31, 2027 to the Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Board of Assessment Review: (2 vacancies; 1 full member with a term expiration date of March 31, 2028; 1st alternate with term expiration dates of March 31, 2026.) Interviewed: James San Giovanni
Mr. San Giovanni stated that he is an appraiser and has appraised over 500 homes in Barrington.
Vice President Berard asked for the advice of the solicitor, asking if there would be an ethical conflict.
Assistant Town Solicitor Goins stated that he should contact their office and the office of the Ethics Commission on a case-by-case basis.
Motion by Councilwoman Jancosek and seconded by Councilwoman Cassar to approve James San Giovanni as a full member with a term expiration date of March 31, 2028 to the Board of Assessment Review. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee: 1 vacancy; 2nd alternate, with a term expiration date of September 30, 2026. Interview: Hiba Aswad WITHDREW
· Parks & Recreation Commission: Student Representative, with a term expiration date of May 31, 2026. Interviewed: Alex Anderson
Motion by Vice President Berard and seconded by Councilman O’Neill to approve Alex Anderson with a term expiration date of May 31, 2026 to the Parks & Recreation Commission as the Student Representative . The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Planning Board: (1 vacancy: 2nd alternate with a term expiration date of February 28, 2027) Interviewed: Elizabeth Hermann and Summer H. Sheeley WITHDREW
Motion by Councilwoman Cassar and seconded by Councilman O’Neill to approve Elizabeth Hermann with a term expiration date of February 28, 2027 to the Planning Board. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
TM Comment: Representatives from AARP of Rhode Island will be presenting information on AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. It is free to join. Becoming a member provides benefits, including access to resources including: an online survey tool, a Network-only Facebook group, news and events, partnership opportunities, and mentoring and peer-review evaluation by member cities and towns.
For more information, please see the links below.
· www.aarp.org/livable-communities/
· www.aarp.org/livable-communities/network-age-friendly-communities/joining-the-network.html
Representatives from AARP Elizabeth Hallett (Volunteer State President of AARP in RI) and Darlene Reza Rossi (Associate State Director of Committee Outreach for AARP RI) gave a presentation on the AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly State and Communities. They explained the AARP network, its benefits, and the process for joining. Their discussion included livability index, with Barrington scoring a 56 out of 100, and the importance of community surveys and assessments. They emphasized the need for community engagement and the potential for funding opportunities through AARP’s community challenge grant program.
Ms. Hallett explained that this is a multi-phase, multi-year opportunity and not a cookie cutter style program with the following things you must do. There is a community survey for free. There are many benefits that are available but we do ask that the highest official, elected official in the community be the one who requests the participation. You will have access to a global network, which in the United States alone, has 974 communities that are participating. The network provides advantages for all to engage with each other’s best practices and how to solve problems. She stated that there is no fee to join and no fee to participate. She said that often, it is the community who does organize to work on the process as people in the community create a local group of advisors. She said usually there are different places in town government that engage but would like for all parts of government to engage (Parks & Recreation to the Town Clerk’s office etc.). She explained that the AARP staff and volunteers are here to support you, not to tell you what to do with volunteers stepping forward.
Ms. Rossi explained that in Rhode Island we have five (5) communities participating (Newport, Providence, Cranston and Bristol) that are members of the network; with other communities close to joining (Block Island, East Providence, Pawtucket and Lincoln) and we hope that Barrington will join as well.
Ms. Rossi continued the discussion of the available resources that AARP has to offer with this age friendly portal or website that all of the communities take part. AARP will give you access to all of these great tools and resources, and they are all free. She said that we have everything from guides and videos and webinars but most important our greatest asset is the AARP livability index. It is an index that evaluates the livability of approximately 200,000 communities in the US, and it features 61 indicators that capture how well the community supports its members in seven (7) critical categories which align with eight (8) domains of livability.
Ms. Rossi said that she has provided the indexing for Barrington, which is included in the packet (see Clerkbase). She said, for example, Cranston took a focus at dementia living within their community. She said that Newport had a volunteer group who was interested in organizing and broached the Mayor (as discussed above, must have the highest elected official to agree to join the network). She stated that this is a community plan and the departments of senior services, planning should be active in the plan.
Councilwoman Jancosek was excited by the presentation with this concept of multi-generational living in Barrington as her in-laws followed to Barrington to help raise her family. She said that she supports the work that AARP is doing. She said that it is amazing that Bristol and East Providence are involved and look forward to Barrington becoming a part of this same opportunity.
Councilwoman Jancosek questioned the grant resources available. Ms. Rossi stated that she is the Rhode Island point person who will help guide you along the way and will go directly to our national affiliation. She said that there is a yearly community challenge grant program where they will bestow grants to eligible organizations which opens up in January and ends in March.
Ms. Hallett said it is very important to note that they are very targeted investments. Such as making parks more accessible to older adults. She said we primarily focus on state level advocacy, along with the age friendly livable communities. We are one of the first states to start focusing on housing through AARP and walkability, which is our big focus this year.
President Cloutier was concerned with out statistics with the livability index 56 out of 100 and our score, the lowest, 20 out of 100 in housing.
Vice President Berard said that we have people working in these areas such as the Village Common who helps transport people but the question is, if there is a way to point people from AARP to these local efforts.
Ms. Hallett answered that you should have people from your community and AARP volunteers from your community don’t tie to the state. She said that we are here to support you, not to lead for your community. She said you have people in the community with support services and you will find people who care about multi-generational programming and want to be a part of it. We want you to build the network at the community level that is engaged.
Discussion ensued regarding incorporating the Comprehensive Plan and putting together an action plan and getting as many people involved in the plan.
President Cloutier thanked both Ms. Hallett and Ms. Rossi. He stated that there is a resolution included in our packet stating that by 2030 it is estimated that one in four (4) Rhode Islanders will be 65 or older and by 2050 the population aged 65 and older is projected to be 83.7 million. He stated that he is in support of the resolution.
Motion: by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Jancosek to approve the Resolution in support of Barrington’s application to join in the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Resolution: Supporting the Rhode Island Beverage Bottle and Extended Producer Responsibility Bill (H6207/S-996)
TM Comment: On May 27th, the Resilience and Energy Committee passed a motion in support requesting Council support of the beverage container recycling legislation under consideration at the General Assembly (House bills H-6206 and H-6207, and Senate bills S-996 and S-997).
The attached Resolution, in support of House Bill 6207, was provided by Councilor O’Neill. More information is below:
· RI lawmakers push for ‘bottle bill’ to combat recycling ‘status quo’ (WPRI)
· Article by Resource Recycling
Representative Jennifer Boylan and Director of Save the Bay Topher Hamlet was present to address the Town Council regarding the resolution in support of the RI Beverage Bottle and Extended Producer Responsibility Bill.
Mr. Hamlet stated that Save the Bay is in strong support of H6207 and S996 which supports a bottle deposit bill. He said that Save the Bay volunteers has served on something called the special joint commission to study and provide recommendations to protect our natural environment and natural resources from plastic bottle waste. He said that over 3000 volunteers that fan out across the shorelines of Narragansett Bay for the International Coastal Cleanup. In 2023, 8193 plastic bottles were collected, 90,508 bottle caps, 4489 cans and 5497 glass bottles. In South Kingstown over 85,000 nips were collected around the state. These bottles break down over time, into smaller bits called micro plastics and it has been found that Narragansett Bay has over 1000 tons of microplastics in the sediments of Narragansett Bay.
Mr. Hamlet commented that we have a real problem but we do have a solution, and that is the legislation that you are considering supporting. The legislation places 10 cents per container fee on bottles and cans. It is not a tax, as some have claimed, it is actually a deposit program where you get to redeem the value of the bottle – if you place a value on something it is much less likely to be discarded. He said that it was Barrington that led the state in terms of supporting plastics reduction, through the plastic bag ban bill. He said that right now only about 26% of recyclable materials actually make it to recycling but we have the potential for a 90% recycling rate with a deposit program.
Councilman O’Neill stated that he brought this before the Town Council and is fully in support of it. He asked Mr. Hamlet to speak on the advantages of the bill.
Mr. Hamlet said that under this system, the bottles, and cans that are collected are actually collected by the industry players that are producing bottles and cans, so they have an interest in making sure that they have material to recycle. In effect, this is going to keep a lot of recyclable materials from actually becoming waste in the landfill. Currently, a lot of the glass that we are putting into our bins is actually used, is crushed at the landfill and used for cover over the landfill. This will actually prevent that from happening and put those bottles back into the system for reuse, recycling, etc.; it is a much better system.
Councilman O’Neill commented the many conversations that our Council has had with the cost that the town is paying for our waste going to the Johnston landfill.
Councilwoman Cassar commented that our shorelines and our waterways will be significantly cleaner.
Councilwoman Jancosek was pleased with the wording within the resolution and parsing it down and explaining the benefits that the town and the state would reap from this bill is fantastic. She acknowledged the efforts of the Resilience and Energy Committee for bringing this forward as well.
Mr. Hamlet commended the House Environment Committee as well as Representative Boylan and Representative Knight.
Discussion ensued regarding the difference between the bottle deposit bill and the extended producer responsibility bill. Mr. Hamlet is not saying we are opposed to them or support them but here we wanted to focus on the bottle deposit bill, which for Save the Bay is the most important one of all. Currently the bills are in committee hearings in both the House and Senate with a growing number of supporters including the can Manufacturers Association of America – turning them from used to recycle, to use again.
Representative Jennifer Boylan (140 Lincoln Avenue) thanked the Council for taking up this important resolution and believes that bills H6207 and S996 are the best bills with the bill that includes the bottle bill and the extent of producer responsibility; the combo bill, McEntee and McKinney bills are ones that she is personally endorsing and that Save the Bay is supporting.
Vice President Berard requested that the resolution be amended IV paragraph municipality Barrington.
Motion: by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Jancosek to approve the Resolution in support of the Rhode Island Beverage Bottle and Extended Producer Responsibility Bill (H-6207) and (S-996) and amend IV paragraph municipality Barrington. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· INTRODUCTION(S): (none)
· PUBLIC HEARING:
· 2025-5 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 185 Zoning: Art II Definitions, Art XXII: Accessory Apartments - To be continued to July 28, 2025; Art VI: Dimensional, Area and Lot Coverage Requirements; Art IX Nonconforming Uses; Art XXIV: Dev Plan Review; Art XXVIII: Cellular Com, Antenna Arrays/Towers; Art XXVII Low-Moderate Income Housing Mandatory Inclusionary Requirements; Substandard Lots - Barrington
TM Comment: According to Assistant Solicitor Amy Goins, the proposed amendments “contain miscellaneous revisions to Chapter 185, the Zoning Ordinance, required due to recent changes in state law.” The amendments include revisions to the following regulations: inclusionary zoning; dimensional regulations applicable to substandard lots of record; provisions for development plan review; and accessory dwelling units.
The amendments are proposed in the following sections of the Zoning Ordinance:
· Article II Definitions, Art XXII: Accessory Apartments
· Article VI: Dimensional, Area and Lot Coverage Requirements
· Article IX Nonconforming Uses
· Article XXIV: Development Plan Review
· Article XXVIII: Cellular Communications, Antenna Arrays/Towers
· Article XXVII Low-Moderate Income Housing Mandatory Inclusionary Requirements; Substandard Lots - Barrington
President Cloutier opened the public hearing for 2025-5 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 185 Zoning: Art II Definitions, Art XXII: ; Art VI: Dimensional, Area and Lot Coverage Requirements; Art IX Nonconforming Uses; Art XXIV: Dev Plan Review; Art XXVIII: Cellular Com, Antenna Arrays/Towers; Art XXVII Low-Moderate Income Housing Mandatory Inclusionary Requirements; Substandard Lots - Barrington and at the meeting on July 28th we will have a public hearing on Art XXII: Accessory Apartments.
Charles Brown, 5 Carpenter Avenue questioned the continuance of Art XXII: Accessory Apartments.
Vice President Berard stated at our last discussion, and the way the law is written, an ADU must have a certain size lot in our community. We don't have very many lots that are that size, so she said she thinks it is a little too restrictive. That conversation is happening with the Planning Board as an advisory committee. She said that it is going to the Planning Board tomorrow night and then back to us in July.
Charles Brown said that is the topic that he specifically wanted to address – lot size. He expressed his concerns about the potential negative impacts of reducing lot size requirements for ADU’s. (Mr. Brown’s entire presentation is attached in Clerkbase: https://clerkshq.com/barrington-ri )
MaryAnn Ducharme, 17 Colonial Avenue since Mr. Brown brought up the topic of ADU’s she shared her experience with a neighbor’s ADU, highlighting issues with parking, privacy and potential impact on property values.
The Council acknowledged the concerns and plan to discuss the matter further at a future meeting.
Vice President Berard said that her understanding last month that most seem to be in support, but she thinks there will be a more thorough conversation this month. She commented that she did not want to talk about the ADUs, because she said she has a lot to say and will hold off for the appropriate time. However, she said something was brought up about reducing the affordable number and new developments, we don't have the choice as a municipality to force a higher affordable unit count in a new development.
Assistant Town Solicitor Goins explained ADU’s can be counted toward the density of the overall development; ADU’s can count towards the town’s 10% as one half of a unit. Instead of a full dwelling unit counting as one unit, an ADU counts for half. We the town, cannot require that an ADU be deed restricted. In other words, we cannot condition eligibility for an ADU on the property owner deed restricting it. However, that would not prevent the town, for example, using Spencer Trust or other money to assist residents with creating ADUs that will then be deed restricted as affordable.
Motion 1 by President Cloutier and seconded by Vice President Berard to approve Ordinance 2025-7 amending Chapter 185 Zoning, with the exception of amendments related to Accessory Apartments. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Motion 2 by President Cloutier and seconded by Vice President Berard to continue the hearing on Ordinance 2025-7 related to Accessory Apartments to the July 28, 2025, Council meeting. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· 2025-6 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 67 Animals: §67-11 Dogs prohibited from certain places.
TM Comment: Ordinance 2025-6 would prohibit dogs, with the exception of guide dogs, “on any Town-owned park or recreation area during any time that such park or recreation area has been approved by the Town for use by any sports league, group, or other association from April 1 to November 30.”
The Park and Recreation Commission is recommending a revision of the proposed ordinance. At the May 22nd meeting, the Commission voted as follows (from the draft minutes):
• The commission reviewed the proposed change to ordinance 67-11, specifically the following phrase – “or on any Town-owned park or recreation area from April 1 through November 30. The Park & Rec commission voted 4 to 2 to suggest it be changed to: “no dogs allowed within the fenced area of a baseball field.”
Also, the installation of signs on all athletic playing fields stating that ordinance 67-2 requires all dogs to be restrained at all times, and 67-18 requires removal and disposal of dog feces with a violation penalty of $125 for either. Also, the animal enforcement officers’ number should be on the sign.
In addition, since the May 5th Council meeting, the Recreation Department has researched ordinances related to dogs on fields in other Rhode Island communities – see attached.
We found most communities have a year-round ban in place, though many of those listed below have exceptions for guide dogs or dogs trained for assisted services, in addition to leash requirements where dogs are allowed. Reasons for the regulations cited by the cities and towns include safety concerns related to animal waste, the potential for field damage, and the need to ensure the field remains in good condition for sports.
Below is a summary of regulations related to dogs on fields (Note: most have specified exemptions for service dogs).
• Bristol: Dogs are prohibited from playing fields, picnic areas, parking areas, and the beach.
• Cranston: Dogs are not allowed on city-owned recreational facilities like ball fields, playgrounds, and walking tracks
• Lincoln: An updated ordinance prohibits all dogs from athletic playing fields on public property, “whether at-large or under restraint.”
• Middletown: Dogs are prohibited on athletic or sports fields managed by the town, with the exception of service animals. This rule applies regardless of whether the dog is leashed or at large.
• Narragansett: Dogs are not permitted on any sports field, picnic area, or parking area at any time.
• Newport: Dogs are generally not allowed on athletic fields.
• North Providence: Unlawful to have animals, including dogs, on public parks or sports playing fields, even if they are leashed.
• Pawtucket: Dogs are prohibited on athletic fields, schoolyards, and playgrounds.
• Portsmouth: Dogs are not allowed on athletic fields.
• Providence: Playing Fields – Dogs are not permitted on athletic fields, baseball diamonds, or other areas designated for sports.
• Smithfield: Unlawful for dog owners to allow their dogs on public parks or sports playing fields.
• Warren: No person shall be allowed to bring, walk, or otherwise take a dog in or onto any athletic recreation site or facility during any season in which a sport or athletic contest or activity is being played or conducted.
• Warwick: Dogs prohibited from city athletic fields, Oakland Beach Common, and schoolyards/school property.
President Cloutier opened the public hearing for 2025-6 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 67 Animals: §67-11 Dogs prohibited from certain places.
President Cloutier explained that this ordinance would prohibit dogs, with the exception of Guide Dogs on any town owned park or recreation area during any time that such park or recreation area has been approved by the town for use by any sports league, group or other association, from April 1 through November 30, the Parks and Recreation Commission is recommending a revision of a proposed ordinance at their May 22 meeting (as explained in the above Town Manager memo).
Town Manager Hervey said that the Recreation Department had conducted some research regarding other towns and their regulations regarding prohibiting dogs on play fields, picnic areas, parking areas, and beaches year-round (the list is provided above in the town manager’s memo). He stated that many towns prohibit dogs on athletic fields year-round, with exceptions for guide dogs and service dogs. He emphasized the need to protect fields from damage caused by dogs and people. The amended ordinance would prohibit dogs in town-owned parks during sports league use from April 1 to November 30. This is all to help with the quality and maintenance of the fields especially since we will be installing new fields at Haines Park.
Vice President Berard stated that she has concerns with the language within the ordinance. She said she would encourage us to think about the idea of fenced fields. She said we need to put up signage regarding leash your dog as well as please pickup after the waste signs – they seem to be far and few between. She commented that if we are not making an effort to enforce ordinances that already exist, she is not sure why we are taking this leap. At the same time, she is troubled that we are spending money and taking time to install signs on fields when we did not vote yet or have public comment as of yet. She said that it feels that we have made our decision without hearing what the public has to say – we need to think of a better-balanced ordinance.
Councilman O’Neill echoed Vice President Berard’s comments. He stated that he cannot support this as written. However, would support the Parks & Recreation’s recommendation to no dogs allowed within the fenced area of baseball fields. He sees the concerns as we rehab some of our fields and would encourage for those fields to be fenced and include in such an ordinance.
Councilwoman Jancosek echoed and agreed with VP Berard and Councilman O’Neill and cannot support this ordinance as written. She questioned how do you enforce these additional ordinances about picking up after your dog, or that dogs should be leashed or when you have an incident and there is no witness nor cameras.
Town Manager Hervey commented on the challenge with fencing as well as the expense. He said he believes the intent of these ordinances is to protect the fields. He said that there are other options. He gave examples of Chianese to have a path for walking around the field in order to stay off the field.
Vice President Berard reiterated that the language is problematic. She commented that there is space at some areas for those who could sit and bring their dogs. But the language is unbalanced.
President Cloutier opened Public Comment:
Mike Seward 41 North Lake Drive Chair of Parks & Recreation said that the ordinance is vague and does not address the problem. There are those that follow the rules. He said with respect with the violation fees they need to be adjusted and suggested that there be a flat fine of $175. He suggested that the dog officers’ number should be posted on the sign.
Eileen Johnson, Valentine Drive said she is a responsible dog owner and that dogs are an integral part of this town. Please do not ban them.
Tom Rimoshytus, 1 Howard Street said that he is a responsible dog owner, always on a leash. He believes that this ordinance is a good solution. He commented that we have talked about dog waste but our fields are covered in goose crap.
MaryAnn Ducharme, 17 Colonial Avenue she agrees with everything that Vice President Berard has said – such as bring the dog to watch a game, language to be separate, it is to be specific to bringing dogs on the field. She said and what the Town Manager has talked about that other towns have ordinances with restrictions, some have sports complexes where the fields are separate. Just enforce the leash law.
Ken Block, 8 Atlantic Crossing said nothing galls him more than an irresponsible dog owner. He suggested a fine of $500 for not cleaning up after your dog. He suggested to pick a particular time of day for dogs to run on trails and maybe consider having them off leash. He suggested the northern portion of the beach for the dogs to run free and swim. Be careful if you ban dogs from fields, you may find many coming from out of town with their dogs.
James Paluso, 28 Tiffany Circle agreed with Mr. Block. He said it is the irresponsible dog owners that kind of end up ruining it for the responsible dog owners.
President Cloutier closed public comment.
Councilman O’Neill commented that other towns have much more land than the Town of Barrington.
Vice President Berard said that she is sorry that the community feels we do not support dogs and she is inclined to not do anything with this particular ordinance. She added one more comment in which she has not seen the signs and if they do exist, they are faded. There is nothing that forecloses the opportunity of looking at this in the future after taking a less aggressive step. She asked that the signage that say no dogs on all of the fields be removed.
No action taken and suggested that the Town Manager update the signage.
· 2025-7 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 179 Vehicles and Traffic, Article IV Parking §Parking prohibited certain hours
TM Comment: The Ordinance, based on Chief Correia’s recommendation, would establish 3-hour parking limits between the hours of 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. during school days on streets near the High School to address neighborhood concerns about students parking there. The streets are Cherry Lane, Tiffany Circle and Priscilla Drive. Chief Correia’s recommendation to also establish time limits during school days for parking at Robert M. Gourley field off Upland Way (nine parking spaces plus an ADA space) would require a separate ordinance, which could be introduced in July for a public hearing at the meeting in September.
President Cloutier opened the public hearing for 2025-7 amending Chapter 179 Vehicles and Traffic Article IV. Parking; §179-11 Parking Prohibited Certain Hours
Town Manager Hervey stated that in late March Chief Correia wrote a memo regarding the intent of the ordinance to address the problems with spillover parking at Barrington High School.
Chief Correia explained the issue of overflow parking at the high school with students parking nearby on Cherry, Tiffany and Priscilla streets, as well as Robert Gourley field. He stated that after speaking with the Pastor, the temporary short -term solution has been to use the (Congregational Church) parking lot. He said that he had spoken with the High School Principal in which there is an unusual large senior class and they prohibited those (non-seniors) with licenses from parking in the lot. He discussed the concerns that the neighbors raised and the impact with emergency vehicles, parking on both sides, narrowing the road, left wheels to the curb, with additional parking filling the Robert Gourley lot (handicap spaces taken – no placket) and the need for a more equitable solution. He said that he has issued tickets hoping to deter those parking at these locations. But said that he received an email in which the concern may be with the language of the ordinance that specifically carves out and looks like it is directed for students.
Discussion ensued regarding a current ordinance for Lincoln Avenue ( no parking, no standing) and does not relate with school hours but there is a half hour period where standing is allowed in order for pick- up of students.
Chief Correia stated that the police department and police officers need clear direction. He discussed that currently we have not heard of the numbers of licensed drivers for next year. He said that there is a limited ability to carpool because of the laws with new drivers (only one non family member in a car). We can’t incentivize carpooling.
Vice President Berard discussed the language regarding the three (3) hours of parking, safety concerns, neighbors’ concerns with guest parking and additional concerns that next year we will have construction at the high school and some parking areas may be taken because of equipment.
Councilwoman Cassar commented in which we shouldn’t be depending on our police force to solve this problem. She said it is all about incentives since there is not enough spaces but there are buses, and we can incentivize riding, walking and biking to school and to keep the neighborhoods safe.
Councilwoman Jancosek questioned if it will be required to have passes and parking ordinances within neighborhoods near schools (school holding special events with additional parked cars). She commented that she drove to these areas and said her concern is safety due to obstructed sight lines. However, she said she does not want to limit streets in Barrington.
President Cloutier opened public comment.
Sham Ganglani, 85 Upland Way stated that his concern is that we have not passed an ordinance but yet police have controlled parking at Gourley and questioned if this is right? He said that there was an event with cars parked everywhere even on the fields and grassy areas but no tickets were issued at that time.
James Palusa, 20 Tiffany Circle thanked the police to help solve the parking issues and emphasized the need for a permanent solution.
John Robdeau, 41 Priscilla Avenue shared a personal story regarding a student pedestrian accident and strongly suggested the need for better student safety measures.
Police Captain Kevin Igoe (3 Knapton Street) highlighted the difficulty of enforcing the ordinance without clear signage and the need for a parking pass system.
Joe Paradise 3 Tiffany Circle said that he supports the temporary solution and emphasized the need for a permanent solution to ensure safety.
Jocelyn Murta 33 Priscilla Road stated that she has a special needs child and the difficulty for the special needs bus to access the roadway and her driveway.
Catherine Nellis, 261 Lincoln Avenue stated that there are no sidewalks, no stop sign and inexperience drivers with navigating the road.
Michelle Aguiar, 4 Tiffany Circle support the neighborhoods concerns for safety and emphasized the need for a balanced solution.
Jane Hadley, 18 Tiffany Circle said this is causing a “locked” street and has a big concern for emergency vehicles accessing the roadway.
Tom Rimoshytus, 1 Howard Street commented that a majority of streets do not have any parking signage but should only have parking on one side of the street for safety vehicles to enter.
Discussion ensued regarding the proposed ordinance and the possibility of amending the ordinance to include a parking pass system (establishing resident sticker), to address the safety concerns, access to emergency vehicles, times of parking, enforcement, the possibility to be discussed at the newly formed Transportation Advisory Commission (Councilman Kerry O’Neill inputting, as we speak, for a request for a crosswalk at Tiffany).
Councilman O’Neill questioned if this ordinance could be re-introduced.
Assistant Town Solicitor Goins explained that both the original and new versions of the ordinance can be reintroduced at the special meeting of the Town Council on June 10th with a public hearing at the Town Council meeting on July 28th in which the new version of the ordinance providing a sticker format.
Motion: by President Cloutier and seconded by Vice President Berard to continue the public hearing of Ordinance 2025-7 amending Chapter 179 Vehicles and Traffic Article IV. Parking; §179-11 Parking Prohibited Certain Hours to Monday, July 28, 2025. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
Discussion ensued regarding the Assistant Town Solicitor to prepare an additional ordinance to be introduced for the special meeting of the Town Council on June 10. 2025.
· Department of Public Works: Sports Field Lighting System at Veterans Memorial Field
TM Comment: The Town issued a request for design-build proposals for the installation of new LED sports lighting at Veterans Memorial Field. The scope includes the complete design and installation of a lighting system that includes new poles, LED fixtures, electrical connections, and control systems. The project will expand field access while minimizing light spill and energy use.
The Town received four proposals. Public Works has evaluated the qualifications, proposed lighting layouts, and pricing, and recommends approval of the lowest responsible bid submitted by E.W. Audet, totaling $279,000. The bids include an additional line item for conduit per linear foot; the low bidder provided this at $30 per foot.
Funding will come from the $5 million Field and Culvert bond. The project was recommended by the Park and Recreation Commission. Public Works recommends a total project budget of $375,000 to provide sufficient funding to finish the project, as there are costs that will not be known until the final design is completed.
DPW Director Alan Corvi was present to answer questions. Town Manager Hervey is his above memo outlined the bid proposal for the lowest bid from W. E. Audet.
Director Corvi commented that we do not have an exact quantity, because the work has to be designed as a design build. He said that we are asking for the Council to approve an additional contingency of $96,000 with a total of $375,000 for this project.
Director Covi stated that he reviewed the two lowest bids in which they were within $20,000. He said that this time there is no time frame but said that the company would begin as soon as possible. Discussion ensued that the project should begin after the end of the sports season (September).
Motion: by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Cassar to accept the design-build bid from EW Audet of Providence totaling $279,000, including a per foot cost for conduit at $30, and to approve an additional contingency of up to $96,000 for new conduit as needed and to cover other unknown costs. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Planning, Building & Resilience: Consulting Resilience Planner Contract Extension
TM Comment: The Town has contracted with Karlo Berger, who was selected through a competitive bidding process, to provide Resilience Planning consultant services to the Town. He has helped complete multiple resilience projects for the Town, including assisting with the Maple/Foote tree planting program, coordinating the design and installation of a resilience garden near Wood’s Pond (with the site work completed by DPW), securing several grants, and helping coordinate tasks with Kim Lundgren Associates on the completion of the Town’s Climate Action Plan in 2024. Continuing with the contract in FY2026 is needed so the Town has the capacity to follow through on resilience projects now under way, and to move forward on the implementation of the Climate Action Plan.
Planning, Building and Resilience Director Herb Durfee was present to answer questions.
Discussion ensued regarding the fund in which this position will be paid out of the climate mitigation fund and Vice President Berard stated the need for the possibility of hiring a full-time staffer for the next fiscal year.
Motion: by President Cloutier and seconded by Councilman O’Neill to approve a contract extension with Karlo Berger Environmental Consulting for the Resilience Planner contract position for Fiscal Year 2026, as presented, with funding of no more than $79,000 from the Climate Mitigation Capital Reserve. The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
· Town Manager: Chianese Field – Concepts and Cost Estimates: Pare Corp.
TM Comment: Pare Corp. provided a conceptual plan for Chianese to create a full-size, irrigated field on top of the landfill portion of the site, add off-street parking, a walking path, and traffic calming on adjacent streets. The cost estimate for the concept came in at more than $2 million. The Park and Recreation Commission has expressed concern about the cost of the project and has been looking into alternatives.
According to the meeting minutes, the Commission on April 17th approved a motion “that the Town Council recommend to the Town Manager that he employ a landscape architect to come up with two plans (1) to develop full-size multi-use field where the current baseball field is at Chianese Park, and also a 60’ baseline field adjacent to it, with parking. (2) to develop a full-size multi-use field at Haines Park where the current 90’ senior league field is, and also a plan for a 90’ field at Chianese Park to replace the one being taken away at Haines Park. 2nd by TR passes 6 – 1. Also, to investigate lights at the Middle School to increase playing time.”
I have obtained a quote from Pare to prepare an updated Feasibility Study exploring up to four new alternatives depicting new athletic fields and parking areas. Pare will review available space and space required for new athletic fields and parking areas. Standard athletic field sizes will be considered. A concept sketch depicting layout of the improvements will be provided for each alternative. The scope also includes an opinion of cost, and attendance at a public workshop. Cost: $4,900. Funding source: Field/Culvert bond. Recommend authorizing an additional $2,000 for potential added tasks.
Town Manager Hervey discussed the bid for a feasibility study exploring four new alternatives at Chianese Field.
President Cloutier opened public comment:
Gail Read, 226 Foote Street said that she has reviewed the plan and is very concerned as it is advocating for a parking lot for over 100 cars. She said that it is very interesting after listening to the discussion regarding the parking situation at Tiffany Circle; with only eight (8) cars and the safety issues that surround the neighborhood. She explained that currently there are at least a 100 cars now and you are looking to increase the parking to have another 100; 200 cars coming and going in our small neighborhood – this is not safe either. She highlighted the need for a comprehensive plan for the neighborhood.
Ms. Read stated that we heard from AARP and she said that she has suggested a park like atmosphere, with an athletic field and to include seniors and those with disabilities. She said there will probably be more toddlers that would cross the parking lot to get to the playground. You are offloading a walking path now from the Foote Street Connector and you have deemed the area a heat spot and inviting more cars but yet you want to plant trees and you will have more cars. She said, it doesn’t add up.
Motion: President Cloutier and seconded by Councilwoman Cassar to authorize up to $6,900 funding from the Field/Culvert bond for a feasibility study of alternative field improvement concepts at Chianese to be completed by Pare Corp., as presented.
Vice President Berard commented that you were not at these meetings in which the neighbors are concerned with the location and the parking, connectivity of the footpath. She said that she has been on a Sunday; it is a disaster, it is horrible. She does not know how kids do not get hit. She encourages the Town Manager to review the comments and to incorporate previous public comments about parking, connectivity, and tree planting. She said but right now she is voting on spending money towards a plan that incorporates those comments.
Councilman O’Neill stated that when we spoke of previous Chianese plans we were going to have a public workshop. He said that wherever this goes, we will have a public workshop to make sure that we are addressing these concerns.
Councilwoman Cassar clarified that the proposal will explore up to four (4) new alternatives for athletic fields and parking areas. She commented further by saying, “I see both sides of this where we don't want our wonderful neighborhoods to change.” She said these areas have gone from being an area where my kids could just walk out and go play on the fields, to an area where you wouldn't want your children walking up and down the street. She thinks that's exactly what happens on Foote Street when things get busy. She said we need to understand all the stakeholders, newer residents, as well as those of us who have been around a while, how do we figure out that balance and that sometimes if we're going to have the privilege of living next to a facility like this, then we kind of have to share it with the teams as well. But how do we do that safely? How do we do this in a way that takes care of everybody?
The motion passed in favor 5-0-0-0, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill, no one opposed, no recusals and no abstentions.
To the public: This agenda item is for members of the public to speak regarding a topic that is not already on the agenda. Please indicate that you would like to speak by raising your hand. When you are recognized, please state your name and residency for the record.
James Paluso, 20 Tiffany Circle raised concerns about the increasing number of high-performance electric bikes being driven by children around the schools. He compared the electric bike to a dirt bike and highlighted the need for awareness and regulations.
· Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at 6:00pm Discuss and Act: Speed Cameras
· 2025-5 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 185 Zoning: Art XXII: Accessory Apartments
· 2025-7 An Ordinance Amendment to Chapter 179 Vehicles and Traffic, Article IV Parking §Parking prohibited certain hours (Amended and reintroduce on June 10, 2025)
· Date for a meeting with Boards and Commissions Chairs and Vice Chairs: Monday, August 25, 2025 from 6:00pm – 8:00pm in Council Chamber
· Dog Park revisit 2-4 months (October-November)
Motion by President Cloutier adjourned the meeting at 11:10PM. The motion passed 5-0-0-0 in favor, President Cloutier, Vice President Berard, Councilwoman Cassar, Councilwoman Jancosek and Councilman O’Neill; no one opposed, no recusals and there were no abstentions.
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Meredith J. DeSisto, CMC, Barrington Town Clerk
It has been a pleasure serving the Town of Barrington. The opportunity to serve as Town Clerk has been a wonderful experience. It has been the best job in the best town! Thank you. (Retirement 7-10-25)