EXETER TOWN COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
APRIL 3, 2023
Town Council Member Calvin Ellis led
Council and the Public in the Pledge of Allegiance.
The Regular Meeting of the Exeter Town
Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m., on Monday, April 3 2023, in Council Chambers,
Exeter Clerk’s Office, 675 Ten Rod Road, Exeter, Rhode Island.
Roll Call: Daniel W. Patterson Present
Michael A. Lefebvre Present
Calvin A. Ellis Present
Olivia DeFrancesco Present
Diane Bampton-Allen Present
Also Present: Also Present: James P. Marusak, Esq., Town Solicitor
Lynn M. Hawkins, Town Clerk
Kenneth G. Findlay, Council Assistant
A. ANNUAL DOG LICENSING: APRIL 1 – JUNE 1, $6.00; AFTER JUNE 1, $6.00 PER LICENSE PLUS $25.00 LATE FEE PER LICENSE; OBTAIN AT CLERK’S OFFICE, ANIMAL SHELTER, OR, ONLINE; FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT
THE TOWN’S WEBSITE: The Public was encouraged to license their dogs.
B. EXETER-WEST GREENWICH SCHOOL DISTRICT ALL-DAY REFERENDUM: MONDAY, APRIL 17, 2023, 7:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M., COUNCIL CHAMBERS, EXETER CLERK’S OFFICE, 675 TEN ROD ROAD, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND: The Public
was encouraged to attend and vote.
C. EXETER FIRE DISTRICT ANNUAL BUDGET MEETING: WEDNESDAY,
APRIL 12, 2023, 7:00 P.M., METCALF SCHOOL CAFETERIA, 30 NOOSENECK HILL ROAD, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND (NOTE: CHANGE OF VENUE DUE TO HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM RENOVATIONS): The Public was encouraged to attend and vote.
D. FINANCIAL TOWN MEETING: TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 2023, 7:00 P.M., EXETER-WEST GREENWICH JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL, SENIOR GYMNASIUM, 930 NOOSENECK HILL ROAD, WEST GREENWICH, RHODE ISLAND (NOTE: CHANGE OF VENUE DUE TO HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM RENOVATIONS):
The Public was encouraged to attend and vote.
E. LAND EVIDENCE MAPS DATING BACK TO 1944 ARE NOW DIGITIZED AND CAN BE ACCESSED ON USLANDRECORDS.COM; ORIGINALS STILL AVAILABLE
FOR VIEWING IN THE VAULT LOCATED IN THE TOWN CLERK’S OFFICE BUILDING: The Public was informed.
F. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR DORIAN BOARDMAN PASSED THE INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT EXAM
AND IS NOW OFFICIALLY A CERTIFIED EMERGENCY MANAGER:
Council congratulated Ms. Boardman on this achievement.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to approve the Agenda Order as presented;
seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
A. REYNOLDS CHARITABLE TRUST: There was nothing from the
Reynolds Charitable Trust Committee for Council’s consideration.
B. REPORTS:
1. TOWN CLERK
2. TREASURER
3. TAX ASSESSOR
4. TAX COLLECTOR
5. TOWN PLANNER
6. ANIMAL CONTROL
7. TRANSFER STATION
8. EXETER PUBLIC LIBRARY
9. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
10. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
11. DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES
12. EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT/PUBLIC SAFETY
13. RURAL LAND PRESERVATION TRUST COMMITTEE
14. EXETER JOB CORPS ACADEMY
15. EXETER-WEST GREENWICH SCHOOL DISTRICT
16. EXETER-WEST GREENWICH REGIONAL SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE
Mr. Lefebvre removed No. 3. Mr. Ellis removed No. 14.
C. COMMUNICATIONS: Mr. Patterson removed No. 13.
Ms. DeFrancesco removed Nos. 5 and 15.
D. SCHEDULE OF APRIL MEETINGS AND EVENTS:
The Schedule was not removed.
E. BILLS, APPROPRIATIONS, AND ABATEMENTS:
1. BILL SHEET
2. TAX ASSESSOR’S ABATEMENTS
3. TAX COLLECTOR’S REMITTANCES AND ABATEMENTS
Ms. Allen will abstain from voting on the Bill Sheet.
There were no Tax Assessor’s Abatements or Tax Collector’s Abatements
F. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: There were no minutes submitted for approval.
G. KENNEL LICENSE RENEWALS:
1. CLASS 1 (over 10 dogs):
a. Owner/Applicant: Marguerite & Bogdan Sergo; Business Name: All Are Welcome;
Location: 495 Nooseneck Hill Road, Exeter, Rhode Island
b. Owner/Applicant: Ruth Gordon; Business Name: Delmyra Kennels; Location:
191 Ten Rod Road, Exeter, Rhode Island
c. Owner/Applicant: John Mann; Business Name: Cedar Valley Pet Lodge; Location:
76B Levitt Lane; Exeter, Rhode Island
d. Owner/Applicant: Ruth Colwill; Location: 174 Hallville Road; Exeter, Rhode Island
2. CLASS 2 (four to ten dogs):
a. Owner/Applicant: Gary & Barbara Donnelly; Location: 224 South Road, Exeter,
Rhode Island
b. Owner/Applicant: Susan Newell; Location: 23 New Road; Exeter, Rhode Island
The Clerk reported: All requirements for Kennel Licenses have been met.
H. HAWKER’S LICENSE RENEWALS:
1. Owner/Applicant: Warren Philippi; Business Name: WBG, Inc.; Location:
171 Nooseneck Hill Road; Exeter, Rhode Island
The Clerk reported: Mr. Philippi has met all requirements.
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to approve the Consent Agenda as amended;
seconded by Mr. Patterson; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to approve the Bill Sheet; seconded by Mr. Patterson;
and voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Yes
Diane Bampton-Allen Abstain
Motion passes.
A. VACANCIES:
1. PERSONNEL BOARD (5 MEMBERS NEEDED): Letters of interest received
are being held. Once five are received, this Board will be activated. These vacancies
will continue to post.
2. CONSERVATION COMMISSION (7 MEMBERS NEEDED): Letters of
interest received are being held. Once seven are received, this Board and Commission
will be activated. These vacancies will continue to post.
B. RESIGNATIONS:
1. ALICIA CINQUEGRANA, JUVENILE HEARING BOARD:
Council has Ms. Cinquegrana’s letter of resignation (Communication No. 17).
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to accept Alicia Cinquegrana’s resignation
as Juvenile Hearing Board Member; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously
in the affirmative.
C. APPOINTMENTS:
1. JUVENILE HEARING BOARD ALTERNATE MEMBER (ONE NEEDED
FOR THREE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING DATE OF APPOINTMENT):
There have been no letters of interest received. This vacancy will continue to post.
2. JUVENILE HEARING BOARD MEMBER (TO SERVE THREE-YEAR
TERM BEGINNING DATE OF APPOINTMENT): There have been no letters
of interest received. This vacancy will continue to post.
3. EXETER RURAL LAND PRESERVATION TRUST COMMITTEE MEMBERS (TO FILL FOUR-YEAR TERMS BEGINNING DATE OF APPOINTMENT):
There have been no letters of interest received. This vacancy will continue to post.
4. WOOD-PAWCATUCK WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS STEWARDSHIP
COUNCIL ALTERNATE MEMBER: There have been no letters of interest received.
This vacancy will continue to post.
5. LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEMBERS (TWO) (TO FILL THREE-YEAR APPOINTMENTS FROM DATE OF APPOINTMENT): Council has Elaine Rasmussen’s
letter of interest (Communication No. 14). Ms. Rasmussen has served in the past.
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to appoint Elaine Rasmussen as Library Board of Trustees member for the ensuing term; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
6. BOARD OF CANVASSERS ALTERNATE MEMBER (TO SERVE UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING MAY 3, 2027): Chair, Diane Allen, indicates that the Republican Town Committee has not yet found a volunteer.
7. FINANCE CLERK: Mr. Patterson inquired: Are the Town Treasurer and Tax Collector going to interview? Do they need the help of a clerk? Mr. Lefebvre answered. The Tax Collector and Town Treasurer are cross-training; however, this position was created to set the stage for the future. Ms. DeFrancesco noted that the Elections Administrator/Clerk can serve
as a floater. This vacancy will continue to post.
8. ANIMAL CONTROL OFFICER: Director of Public Works Robert Shappy reported
that interviews of the applicants are being conducted.
9. SPECIAL CONSTABLES (TWO) (TO SERVE ONE-YEAR TERM BEGINNING DATE OF APPOINTMENT): Special Constables Stephen Vanner and Thomas Allen wish
to be reappointed. Upon Town Sergeant Scote Miller’s recommendation, the following motion entered.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to reappoint Stephen Vanner and Thomas Allen as Special Constables for the ensuing year; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
D. EXPIRING TERMS: There were no Expiring Terms.
A. OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE APPLICATION: ANDREW WHITFORD AND HANNAH PALMER, APPLICANTS: TO HOLD THEIR WEDDING (PRIVATELY, FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS), SATURDAY, JUNE 10, 2023, FROM 4:00 P.M. TO 11:00 P.M., IN THE BACK YARD AT 803 TEN ROD ROAD, EXETER RHODE ISLAND:
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to open the Public Hearing;
seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Mr. Whitford and Ms. Palmer were present. They have been dating for three years.
There will be a DJ but not a live band. Council congratulated the couple.
The Clerk reported: The matter was advertised. Abutters were duly notified.
$78.65 is owed for advertising and certified mailing fees.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to close the Public Hearing; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to approve private, family wedding on June 10, 2023,
4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., at 803 Ten Rod Road, subject to advertising and certified mailing fees being paid; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
B. OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE APPLICATION: KAREN LEVIN, APPLICANT, ON BEHALF OF THE FRIENDS OF EXETER ANIMALS; TO HOLD
A CLASSIC CAR SHOW, INCLUDING VENDORS, ON SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2023 (RAIN DATE: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2023), 10:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M., AT THE EXETER ANIMAL SHELTER, 169 SOUTH COUNTY TRAIL, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND:
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to open the Public Hearing;
seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
This event has been held for the last three to five years. There have been no issues.
The Friends request waiver of the application fee.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to close the Public Hearing; seconded by
Mr. Ellis; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to grant the Friends of the Exeter Animals be granted Outdoor Entertainment for Car Show on September 9 as noticed, waiving the
application fee, subject to advertising and certified mailing fees being paid;
seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
C. PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE APPLICATION: ROBERT BURNS, APPLICANT, ON BEHALF OF THE SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND TRUCK PULLERS ASSOCIATION; TO HOLD TRUCK AND GARDEN TRACTOR PULLS ON MAY 20, JULY 29, SEPTEMBER 16, AND OCTOBER 14, 2023 (RAIN DATES: MAY 21, JULY 30, SEPTEMBER 17, AND OCTOBER 15, 2023) FROM 9:00 A.M. TO 7:00 P.M., ON THE NORTHERN PORTION OF TOWN-OWNED REYNOLDS FIELD, LOCATED
ON SOUTH ROAD, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND WITH FOOD VENDORS (TWO):
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to open the Public Hearing; seconded byMs. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Bob MacDonald, President, was present. The event is usually over by 5:30 p.m. The Club
does not allow anyone to “gas” their trucks when pulling out onto South Road. Upon his request, Mr. MacDonald was given permission by Council to hang a sign on one of the
telephone poles at the field entrance to advertise the pull dates. The request to hang two, outdoor, speakers permanently on the poles was denied. Considering the track is under DEM investigation, Mr. MacDonald inquired whether the Association will be able to hold this event next year. Council could not answer in the affirmative or negative at this time.
The Clerk reported: The matter was advertised and abutters duly notified. $145.95 is owed
in advertising and certified mailing fees.
MOTION made by Mr. DeFrancesco to close the Public Hearing; seconded by
Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to grant Public Entertainment License to the Southern
New England Truck Pullers Association for truck and garden tractor pulls on the dates
as advertised, subject to advertising and certified mailing fees being paid; seconded by
Mr. Lefebvre; and approved unanimously in the affirmative.
AND PROCEDURES; DIVISION 1, GENERALLY; SECTION 2-119, METHOD OF SOURCE SELECTION; DIVISION 5 (SECTIONS 2-301, 2-302, 2-303), PURCHASES PROCURED THROUGH SERVICES OF THE STATE DIVISION OF PURCHASES, JOINT AGREEMENTS WITH OTHER MUNICIPALITIES, OR UNDER STATE-APPROVED MASTER PRICE AGREEMENTS:
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to open the Public Hearing; seconded by
Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Asa Davis, 146 Beechwood Hill Trail: The proposed amendment violates Town of Exeter Charter and State Law. The Charter provides that all purchases and contracts exceeding $5000.00 will be subject to the competitive, sealed bidding process as set forth in State statute 45-55-5. Purchases can be made through State contracts and Sourcewell, if the prices are lower than bids received. It is anti-competitive, illegal, and restraint of trade to piggyback through another municipality, if the bidding process is not followed. The incumbent vendor gets significantly more revenue than contracted, giving them a pricing and profit advantage. The Town Charter states any contract made in violation shall be null and void and any costs incurred shall be born by the Town staff member responsible for the violation. The Town should get the opinion of the Attorney General on this amendment.
Attorney Marusak: The State Division of Purchases is comfortable with multi-source contracts and purchases, if the Town has an ordinance. Council has allowed this practice in the past, by approving the purchase on the Bill Sheet. After review of samples provided by the State Division of Purchases of other municipalities’ ordinances that are in compliance with its standards, this proposed amendment was drafted.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to close the Public Hearing; seconded by
Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to approve Proposed Amendment to the Town of Exeter Code of Ordinances: Chapter 2, Administration; Article IV, Contracts and Procedures; Division 1, Generally; Section 2-119, Method of Source Selection; Division 5 (Sections
2-301, 2-302, 2-303), Purchases Procured Through Services of the State Division of Purchases, Joint Agreements with Other Municipalities, or Under State-Approved Master Price Agreements; seconded by Mr. Ellis.
Discussion: State sources were contacted in drafting this amendment as a step in protecting
the Town.
Back to the Motion: Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Asa Davis: 1) Regarding the Town Hall discussion, North Kingstown completed renovations and an addition. The cost was $4,300,000.00 (bidded before Covid; would be double now).
The square footage is less. It is ADA compliant and brick and wood; 2) Regarding the Garage DEM violations, where is the salt? The salt shed is now being used for storage. It was built without proper DEM permits, violating clean water and wetland standards. The previous Public Works Director was praised for saving $50,000.00 on constructions costs, but the remediation
with DEM is costing more. How much will the remediation cost? When we will have an approved plan? What is the estimate for restoration? We do not have a place to store salt.
If it was done right in the first place, we would not have to spend this money.
Ted Nataly, 34 Nelson Drive: Without offending anyone, Mr. Nataly discussed the flyer that was mailed prior to Council’s recent public hearing regarding maximum lot coverage concerning greenhouses. The flyer was damaging to both sides, republican and democrat, but neither took responsibility. Nobody seems to know who did the flyer, yet everyone knows. It was easy to track down, back to where the mailing was done. If Mr. Nataly were being accused, he would not have this reflect on him. Council has the responsibility to present the truth to the people.
Eugene Whitford, 803 Ten Rod Road: Regarding the future, the Town is growing, and though he is not in favor of a police department, the reality is that one is going to be needed at some point. He suggests a system to create a Sheriff’s department. The Town would be much better served by someone who is voted in. The cost would be approximately the same as that of the two State troopers who are currently serving the Town.
A. REQUEST OF TAX ASSESSOR: INCREASE TAX ASSESSOR CLERK’S
HOURS DURING DURATION OF TAX ASSESSOR’S LEAVE: Tax Assessor,
Kerri Petrarca, went out on maternity leave on March 31 and is requesting additional
hours for her clerk to cover the office in her absence.
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to approve 15 additional hours to Tax
Assessor’s Clerk during Tax Assessor’s maternity leave; seconded by Ms. Allen.
Discussion: The hours that the Tax Assessor’s Clerk cannot cover will be covered
by the Elections Administrator/Clerk. Tax Assessor, Kerri Petrarca, left everything
in good order in her office. She will be in touch with her office while on maternity
leave.
Back to the Motion: Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
B. LIBRARY HVAC INSTALLATION: PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
AGREEMENT: ZARRELLA PLUMBING & HEATING CO., INC.: Zarrella was awarded the bid for installation of the new system at the Library. The quote for maintenance
is extremely high, roughly $1,000.00 per month, and will increase by 6.5% each year. It took
a year to obtain the quote because Zarrella had to be sure of which parts would be installed.
A maintenance contract should be standard and the first year should be free. Library Director, Tien Tran, will ask Zarrella to reconsider the quote and will obtains maintenance quotes from other companies.
C. DEM NOIE NEGOTIATIONS: STATUS AND ADDITIONAL EXPERT
SERVICES REQUIRED TO COMPLETE RESOLUTION AND SETTLEMENT:
Tighe & Bond was engaged for engineering services required to negotiate violations cited
by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (“DEM”) at the Public
Works Facility. Its preliminary report was deemed exceptional by DEM. DEM is now
requiring a specific engineered design that fits its requirements. This is outside the scope
of Tighe & Bond’s original engagement. Council has Tighe & Bond’s proposal.
As the Town’s Purchasing Agent, Town Clerk Lynn Hawkins has issued a memo to Council.
Considering the deadline DEM has given the Town and the fact that Tighe & Bond has
worked all along on this project mitigating negotiations with the DEM, Charter Sections
2-120(a) and (b), emergency procurement, should be invoked. Going out to bid for this
service would take several months. Tighe & Bond has first-hand knowledge of the
project. If the Town does not meet the DEM’s deadline for resolution, the Town could
be cited with substantial fines. It is in the best interest of the Town to allow Tighe & Bond
to continue to work on the project. The Town would be showing DEM that it is acting in
good faith and not delaying.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to award, under Charter Sections 2-120(a) and (b),
additional engineering services for final design and implementation oversight for
enforcement required mitigation at the public works facility, File No. FW-19-124,
to Tighe & Bond in the amount of $27,600.00 and an additional $5,000.00 on-call
budget for Task 4; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the
affirmative.
D. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS: REQUEST TO GO OUT TO BID:
REPLACEMENT OF 2007 4X4 F350 SERVICE TRUCK: A replacement service truck
would not be available until approximately September. Public Works requests to go out to
bid to replace its 2018 Ford Explorer LT instead with a 2022 F350. The Explorer does not
serve the Department’s needs. Trade in value for the Explorer is $22,000.00. A $7,600.00
municipal credit is currently available. A 2022 F350 costs approximately $50,000.00, less
the trade in and municipal credit.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to go out to bid to replace 2018 Ford Explorer LT
with 2022 F350 Ford Truck; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in
the affirmative.
E. MARCH COMMUNICATION NO. 26: ASA DAVIS: PETITION TO COUNCIL
TO ACCEPT THE IMPROVEMENTS AT THE END OF ESTATE DRIVE: Referred
to Town Solicitor James Marusak. Attorney Marusak will review. A response will be sent
to Mr. Davis.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to refer March Communication No. 26, Asa Davis: Petition to Council to Accept Improvements at the end of Estate Drive, to Town Solicitor James Marusak for his opinion; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in
the affirmative.
F. REQUEST OF BUILDING DEPARTMENT: DISCONTINUE MONTHLY
(THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH) MEETINGS DUE TO LACK OF PUBLIC ATTENDANCE: The Inspectors used to meet every Wednesday night before Covid and before
e-permitting. When they went to back to meeting every Wednesday, they found that there was
very little public attendance. Council granted their request to meet once a month. There is still little to no public attendance. This is because the Inspectors meet with the public on an as-needed and where-needed basis.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to grant the request of the Building Department to discontinue monthly meetings due to lack of public attendance; seconded by
Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
G. TOWN TREASURER: REQUEST TO GO OUT TO BID: AUDIT SERVICES:
The three-year contract has ended. As required, the Auditor General has approved the language of the new Request for Proposals, which is twenty-pages, with specific instructions and audit
requirements.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to go out to bid for audit services for the Town
of Exeter for a three-year contract; seconded by Ms. Allen; voted unanimously in
the affirmative.
H. REVIEW: EDWARD F. BRIGGS DISPOSAL, INC.: REQUEST FOR ADJUSTMENT (INCREASE) IN HAULING FEES OF SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLING FROM THE TRANSFER STATION TO THE STATE LANDFILL:
Due to the increased costs of fuel, Council has been approving the adjustment every
three months.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to continue paying the increase and revisit
this request in three months; seconded by Mr. Ellis; and voted unanimously
in the affirmative.
I. HISTORIC PRESERVATION: WOODY HILL AND HALL SCHOOLS:
The Exeter Historical Association would like issues at the schools addressed. Mr. Findlay
provided Council with a list made in February 2020, with Brian Patch, who last restored
the buildings. Priorities and then prices are listed. Mr. Findlay will again visit the sites
with Mr. Patch, revise the list, if necessary, and obtain new prices. The Old Town Hall
will be included in the list. In the 2022 audit, there was $66,321.00 in this budget line
item.
J. RECENT ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT: APPENDIX A, SECTION 2:
INTERPRETATION AND APPLICATION: Mr. Ellis queried: Will the PILOT money
referred to in the ordinance be paid one time or annually? The ordinance does not specify.
The intention was it will be paid annually. Tax provisions and conditions are usually spelled
out in detail in PILOT agreements and are generally paid yearly. It is a tax in lieu. Taxes are
paid on a yearly basis.
K. MARCH COMMUNICATION NO. 13: NATIONAL MS SOCIETY RIDE THE RHODE, SUNDAY, JUNE 11: The ride has gone through a small portion of Exeter for
the last several years. Town Sergeant Scote Miller has reviewed the route. A detail is not necessary.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to grant permission to the National MS Society Ride
the Rhode to go through Exeter on Sunday, June 11; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
L. RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION TO RHODE ISLAND 2023 GUN CONTROL LEGISLATION: Mr. Patterson stated that various bills regarding gun control being considered by the State follow the Nazi/Germany Gun Control Act of 1933.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to send Resolution in Opposition to Rhode Island 2023
Gun Control Legislation to the Governor, Speaker of the House, Senate President, and Town Senator and Representatives; seconded by Mr. Lefevre.
Discussion: Mr. Ellis queried: The Nazi Secret Service enacted the 1933 Nazi Germany Gun Control Act? They did not have a reputation for caring for its people. Mr. Patterson answered
in the negative. Their first gun control act was in 1928. In 1933, when Hitler took over, gun registration started. In 1938, the act was amended, after Kristallnacht (the night synagogues were burned and Jews dragged out of their homes). Gun registration is against the law in Rhode Island. If the legislation is passed, based on the Bruen decision, it will get reversed. Mr. Ellis noted that yesterday’s Providence Journal did a story regarding the banning of assault weapons, the second amendment, the Bruen decision, and whether the Second Amendment rights of Rhode Islanders be infringed upon if the General Assembly enacts an assault weapons ban. Mr. Ellis asked Mr. Patterson, since he is a firearms dealer, will he recuse himself from the vote on the motion, and Ms. DeFrancesco asked whether this gun legislation would damage his sales and livelihood. Mr. Patterson answered in the negative. The Ethics Commission found no issue
with his voting when he inquired another time. Mr. Lefebvre felt that no matter how many
laws are made, some criminals will not follow them, and that Mr. Patterson should not have
an issue voting.
Back to the Motion: Voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Calvin A. Ellis No
Olivia DeFrancesco No
Diane Bampton-Allen Yes
Motion passes.
M. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF 2023-H 5724 AND 2023-S 0328, AN ACT RELATING TO HEALTH AND SAFETY – VITAL RECORDS: The Town Clerk
explained. Once State Vitals sends vital records (death certificates that are over 50 years
and birth and marriage certificates that are over 100 years) to State Archives, residents
cannot get them. The legislation will allow them to stay at the Town and City Halls in
order that residents can continue to obtain them.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to adopt Resolution in Support of 2023-H 5724 and 2023-S 0328, An Act Relating to Health and Safety – Vital Records; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre;
and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
A. USE OF AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN ACT FUNDS: TOWN HALL ADDITION
V. NEW TOWN HALL V. PURCHASE OF 742 TEN ROD ROAD: REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS, PROFESSIONAL SERVICES, TOWN HALL STUDY: Council had
discussed going out to bid for a town hall study. Mr. Findlay has been gathering information regarding the addition to the current building, an addition to 742 Ten Rod Road, construction
of a new town hall, and construction of a new town hall incorporating the original town hall
into the new building, and believes it is not necessary to hire someone to do the study, that he
and the staff can compile the information a study would generate, which then can be provided
for the bids for architectural services. After discussion, Council agreed.
B. JULY COMMUNICATION NO 16: GOVERNOR MCKEE: RHODE ISLAND
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND: MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY FACILITIES MATCHING GRANT: Town Treasurer Maria Lawler reported that she has not received
an update or status.
C. SPLIT ROCK MOBILE PARK: 1) REQUEST OF ELECTRICAL INSPECTOR RANDY McGOVERN TO OBTAIN ENGINEER’S REPORT AND REQUIRE VIOLATIONS TO BE CORRECTED TIMELY; 2) TRAILER PARK LICENSE RENEWAL APPLICATION: SPLIT ROCK MOBILE PARK, 480 SOUTH COUNTY TRAIL: Council has Attorney Bogosian’s update. The work that has been promised to be
done the last several months is not completed. Attorney Bogosian indicates it will be completed in April. The Clerk was directed to write Attorney Bogosian acknowledging his email, empha-sizing that Council expects the work to be completed by the end of April, and that Council will again review at its May meeting.
D. SIGNAGE ON MAJOR ROUTES INTO TOWN: Mr. Findlay reported: A permit from the Department of Transportation is required to place signs on State roads. Before purchasing the signs, he has applied for pre-approval.
E. MEMORIAL DAY PARADE COMMITTEE: The Clerk reported: There will be a parade on Sunday, May 28, at 1:00 p.m. The new members are coming to the table with new ideas and new contacts. It is shaping up to be a nice event.
F. RESOLUTION NO. 2023-01: RESOLUTION URGING PASSAGE OF STATE
LEGISLATION REGARDING GENERAL ASSEMBLY APPROPRIATIONS IN
LIEU OF PROPERTY TAX FOR STATE-OWNED PROPERTIES IN THE TOWN
OF EXETER: The hearing was cancelled. Nothing has been heard since.
G. TOWN OF EXETER CODE OF ORDINANCES; CHAPTER 14, BUILDINGS
AND BUILDING REGULATIONS; ARTICLE IV, IMPACT FEES: Mr. Findlay
reported: He has contacted the company that did the last assessment and formulas. Any proposed changes should be sent to Mr. Findlay to send to the company. The ordinance
will need to be amended. An appeal process will be written in.
H. EXETER RURAL LAND PRESERVATION TRUST COMMITTEE: REQUEST
FOR ADVICE AND CLARIFICATION: PROPERTY GRANTS: The Committee
has not been able to meet and thus Council had no information regarding this matter.
I. TOWN EMAILS AND RECORDS: OFFICIALS, STAFF, BOARDS, AND
COMMISSIONS: IT Director, James Angi, is working on distributing Town emails.
J. REQUEST OF RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF ADMINISTRATION:
NUMBER OF ADUs PERMITTED BY THE TOWN DURING TWO PREVIOUS
CALENDAR YEARS AND NUMBER OF ADUs ISSUED A CERTIFICATE OF
OCCUPANY BY THE TOWN DURING THE TWO PREVIOUS CALENDAR
YEARS: IT Director, James Angi, is working on inserting a new field in the permitting
program.
K. REQUEST OF SOCIAL SERVICES DIRECTOR: GRANT ADMINISTRATION
FEES: Social Services Director Jessica DeMartino received a verbal response from the Ethics
Commission but has not put it in writing for Council. The Ethics Commission cannot issue an
opinion about something that already happened (i.e., the grant has already been received by the
Town). Mr. Findlay is working on a policy.
A. TOWN COUNCIL ASSISTANT’S REPORT: TOWN COUNCIL ASSISTANT, KENNETH G. FINDLAY: Mr. Findlay had nothing additional.
B. SOLICITOR’S REPORT : JAMES P. MARUSAK, ESQ. : Attorney Marusak
had nothing to report.
C. REPORTS REMOVED FROM CONSENT AGENDA:
Tax Assessor: Mr. Lefebvre read Tax Assessor Kerri Petrarca’s report into the record. During her maternity leave, she feels confident in her office responsibilities moving forward without interruption. She will come into the office during her leave to file the tax roll. Mr. Lefebvre noted that Ms. Petrarca is a young professional, on the ball, and a pleasure to work with.
Exeter Job Corps Academy: Mr. Ellis reported: He recently attended a community/meeting luncheon as Council liaison. Adams Management, who oversees Job Corps, requires quarterly meetings with community leaders. Stephanie Ashworth is the new Center Director. All students were sent home during Covid shutdown. Job Corps is still recovering from Covid, is ramping up enrollment, has 150 students, and is a great program that practices tough love.
Green Development: Green Development has filed in Superior Court after Town Planner Bill DePasquale’s decision that their application to revive an old solar project was not complete.
Attorney Marusak’s office is in the process of filing a motion to dismiss.
No. 5 03/08/2023 Mark Iannuccilli: Response to Asa Davis’ letter petitioning the Town
to accept improvements at the end of Estate Drive: Attorney Marusak is reviewing this communication and will act accordingly.
No. 13 03/16/2023 Armenian National Committee of Rhode Island: 2022 - H 8143;
House Resolution Proclaiming April 24, 2023, as “Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day” to Commemorate the Armenian Genocide of 1915 to 1923, and In Honor of Armenian-Americans: The Committee makes this request every year and has been granted every year.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to fly the Armenian flag on April 24, 2023, in remembrance of the Armenian Genocide; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
No. 15 03/21/2023 Exeter-West Greenwich Regional School Committee: Letter regarding an incident where private information was shared with a School Committee
Member about Exeter House residents: Ms. DeFrancesco read the letter into the record.
The School Committee Member presented himself at Town Hall and requested the information. Because he is a School Committee Member , the information was given, not knowing what he intended to do with it. It is understood, by Town Hall staff, that going forward such information is not to be given out, even to a School Committee Member. The Clerk will send a letter to the School Committee indicating that the Council reviewed the letter, expressing its concern, addressed the matter internally, and expects no recurrence of this kind.
Council did not enter into Executive Session.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to adjourn the meeting; seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
The Regular Meeting was adjourned at 9:28 p.m.
The next Regular Meeting of the Exeter Town Council is scheduled for
Monday, May 1, 2023, at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lynn M. Hawkins, CMC
Exeter Town Clerk
Approved: June 5, 2023