EXETER TOWN COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING
MAY 6, 2024
Council led 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, May 6, 2024, in Council Chambers, Exeter Clerk’s Office, 675 Ten Rod Road, Exeter, Rhode Island.
Roll Call: Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Yes
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
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 reminded to license their dogs.
B. EXETER FIRE DISTRICT ANNUAL BUDGET MEETING: WEDNESDAY,
MAY 8, 2024, 7:00 P.M., EXETER-WEST GREENWICH JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM, 930 NOOSENECK HILL ROAD, WEST-GREENWICH, RHODE ISLAND: The Public was urged to attend.
C. ANNUAL MEMORIAL DAY PARADE: SUNDAY, MAY 26, 1:00 P.M.
SUNDERLAND ROAD TO EXETER LIBRARY: PARTICIPANTS, VOLUNTEERS, AND SPECTATORS ALWAYS NEEDED AND APPRECIATED: CEREMONY IN
REMEMBRANCE OF ALL VETERANS AND ACTIVITIES FOLLOWING THE PARADE AT THE EXETER LIBRARY: The Public was urged to attend.
D. FINANCIAL TOWN MEETING: TUESDAY, JUNE 11, 2024, 7:00 P.M.,
EXETER-WEST GREENWICH JUNIOR/SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL AUDITORIUM,
930 NOOSENECK HILL ROAD, WEST GREENWICH, RHODE ISLAND:
The Public was urged to attend.
E. DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES IS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS
FOR THE 2024 GROWERS GIVEBACK PROGRAM WHICH PROVIDES NO-COST PRODUCE AND DAIRY TO QUALIFYING EXETER RESIDENTS: APPLICATIONS AVAILABLE AT THE EXETER CLERK’S OFFICE: The Public was urged to apply.
F. EXETER-WEST GREENWICH BASEBALL TEAM: DIVISION 3 COMPETITION: Council recognized the team for participating and congratulated
it on an impressive season.
Mr. Patterson suggested that Council address Agenda Item No. C1, Bills, Appropriations, and Abatements,
after Agenda Item No. 12, Executive Session.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to approve the Agenda Order as amended;
seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
A. REYNOLDS CHARITABLE TRUST: REQUEST FOR APPROVAL:
None this month.
B. COMMUNICATIONS: Mr. Ellis removed No. 11. Ms. Allen removed
Nos. 4, 15, and 16.
C. BILLS, APPROPRIATIONS, AND ABATEMENTS:
1. BILL SHEET: April 1, 2024 – April 30, 2024
2. TAX ASSESSOR’S ABATEMENTS: None this month
3. TAX COLLECTOR’S ABATEMENTS: None this month
4. TAX COLLECTOR’S REMITTANCES: None this month
The Bill Sheet was removed to be addressed after Executive Session
in accordance with Council’s motion made under Agenda Item No. 4.
1. TOWN COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING, APRIL 1, 2024
2. TOWN COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING, EXECUTIVE SESSION APRIL 1, 2024
3. TOWN COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING, APRIL 2, 2024
4. TOWN COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING, APRIL 17, 2024
Ms. DeFrancesco was not present for the April 17, 2024, Special Meeting.
Those minutes were removed.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to approve the Consent Agenda as amended;
seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to approve the Special Meeting Minutes of April 17,
2024; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted as follows:
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Abstain
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
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): At a recent
public hearing regarding the Comprehensive Plan, several people volunteered to serve.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to appoint Katrina Thornley, Jennifer Cragen, Edward DiMuccio, Caleb Chafee, and Mary Brown to the Conservation Commission; seconded
by Ms. Allen.
Discussion: Council hopes for two more volunteers. The Clerk will send letters to the
five appointees and ask them to seek out two more volunteers in order that the Commission
can start its work.
Back to the Motion: Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
3. PUBLIC WORKS WORKER:
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to post the vacancy of Public Works Worker;
seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
B. RESIGNATIONS: None
C. APPOINTMENTS:
1. EXETER RURAL LAND PRESERVATION TRUST COMMITTEE MEMBERS (TWO) (TO SERVE FOUR-YEAR TERM BEGINNING DATE OF APPOINTMENT):
No Letters of Interest have been received. This vacancy will continue to post.
2. JUVENILE HEARING BOARD ALTERNATE MEMBER (TO SERVE UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING NOVEMBER 6, 2026): No Letters of Interest
have been received. This vacancy will continue to post.
3. TAX BOARD OF REVIEW ALTERNATE MEMBER (TO SERVE UNEXPIRED TERM ENDING AUGUST 2, 2024): No Letters of Interest have been received. This
vacancy will continue to post.
4. MECHANICAL/PLUMBING INSPECTOR: Council has two Letters of Interest.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis forward the letters of interest to the Town’s current inspectors and ask them to interview the candidates; seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco.
Discussion: Building Inspector Ronald DeFrancesco has indicated to Mr. Patterson that he recommends Eugene Whitford III. Council did not vote on the motion above. The following motion entered:
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to appoint Eugene Whitford III as Mechanical/Plumbing
Inspector; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
5. SPECIAL CONSTABLE (TERM ENDING APRIL 1, 2025): Special Constable
Al Gustafson seeks reappointment.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to reappoint Al Gustafson as Special Constable;
seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
6. CONSERVATION COMMISSION MEMBERS: Addressed previously. See
Agenda Item No. 6.A.2.
D. EXPIRING TERMS:
1. TAX BOARD OF REVIEW MEMBER, PAUL KULP (TERM EXPIRING
MAY 3, 2024): Council has Mr. Kulp’s request to be reappointed.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to reappoint Paul Kulp as Tax Board of Review
Member for the ensuing term; seconded by Ms. Allen; and voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Abstain
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
Motion passes
2. TAX BOARD OF REVIEW MEMBER, RAYMOND MORRISSEY (TERM EXPIRING MAY 3, 2024): Council has Mr. Morrissey’s request to be reappointed.
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to reappoint Ray Morrissey as Tax Board of Review Member for the ensuing term; seconded by Mr. Ellis; and voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Abstain
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
Motion passes
Ms. DeFrancesco abstained from voting on the above because these are notification
of expiring terms not appointments.
A. OUTDOOR ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE APPLICATION: FRIENDS OF THE EXETER PUBLIC LIBRARY, APPLICANT: ANNUAL FALL FESTIVAL, YAWGOO VALLEY SKI AREA, 160 YAWGOO VALLEY ROAD, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2004, 10:00 A.M. TO 3:00 P.M.; TO INCLUDE MUSIC, ARTISANS, VENDORS, AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT:
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to open the Public Hearing; seconded by
Ms. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Helen Douglas, President, Friends of the Exeter Public Library: This is the Friends’ annual fundraiser in support of the Library. The Friends will be celebrating its 25th anniversary this
year and the Library will be celebrating its 20th year in September. A lot of excitement this
year. Plans are being made in support and raising awareness and funds for the Library. The
Friends appreciate the Council’s support over the years. As they are non-profit supporting
the Library, the Friends request waiver of the application fee. The event is rain or shine.
There have been no issues. This event has always been very successful. Yawgoo is very
accommodating and supportive. They are expecting 30 vendors and have a waiting list.
Sheila Reynolds, Library Board of Trustees: Great community event.
Sharon MacLean: Attended last year. Very impressed.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to close the Public Hearing; seconded by Mr. Ellis;
and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Ms. DeFrancesco to approve Outdoor Entertainment License for the Friends of the Exeter Public Library’s Annual Fall Festival on September 21, 2024, as advertised, and to waive the $100.00 application fee; seconded by Mr. Ellis; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Town Clerk, Lynn Hawkins: There is $201.42 owed in advertising fees and certified mailings.
B. PUBLIC ENTERTAINMENT LICENSE APPLICATION: JOHN M. ROSA V
AND PAMELA ROSA, APPLICANTS: TO HOLD THEIR DAUGHTER, JULIA ROSA’S WEDDING TO JUSTIN TARTAGLIA, PRIVATELY FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS, ON SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2024, IN THEIR BACK YARD, 68 BEECHWOOD HILL TRAIL, EXETER, RHODE ISLAND, FROM 12:00 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M., WITH MUSIC FROM 12:00 P.M. TO 5:00 P.M.:
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to open the Public Hearing; seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Mr. and Mrs. Rosa: Their daughter will get married at Beaver Tail. The reception will
be held at their house from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. There will be a tent and a DJ will
play until 5:00 p.m. They expect that everyone will clear out by 10:00 p.m. They have
spoken to their neighbors who have no objections.
Sharon MacLean: Is a neighbor and in favor of the wedding being held at the Rosa’s.
Town Clerk, Lynn Hawkins: There is $145.59 owed in advertising fees and certified mailings.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to close the Public Hearing; seconded by Ms. Allen;
and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to approve Public Entertainment License for Mr. and
Mrs. John Rosa to hold their daughter’s wedding in their back yard on August 3, 2024,
as advertised; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Council congratulated Mr. and Mrs. Rosa and wished their daughter and future son-in-law
a long, happy marriage.
Asa Davis: Council should be watching legal and insurance expenses and activities; the
Town should require background checks when hiring; remediation costs cannot be capitalized
because they result from Town personnel transgressions at the Public Works Garage; Council
took an oath to uphold the whole Town Charter, not just parts of it and not outside it, including discretionary spending, capital program restrictions, open meeting approvals, violation enforcement.
A. SOLICITOR’S LICENSE APPLICATION: RENEWAL BY ANDERSEN
OF SNE/SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND WINDOWS, LLC: JOSHUA KELLY, APPLICANT, 27 GOVERNOR STREET, APT. 2, PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND:
Joshua Kelly: Mr. Kelly has taken over the canvassing team for Exeter. They operate out of Smithfield. They would leave town about 6:00 p.m., will go door-to-door in neighborhoods for new business and follow up with previous customers, do not sell at the door, will give a price that is good for a year and try to schedule an appointment, wear IDs and logos, and have submitted vehicle information.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to grant Solicitor’s License to Renewal by Andersen
of SNE/Southern New England Windows, LLC, 10 Reservoir Road, Smithfield, Rhode Island, for the period May 6, 2024, to May 6, 2025; seconded by Ms. Allen.
Discussion: Extensive background checks are performed on all employees before hire.
Back to the Motion: Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
B. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS: REQUEST TO GO OUT TO BID:
ATTACHMENTS FOR BACKHOE: QUICK DISCONNECT COUPLING AND
12” BUCKET: Public Works has a project that requires the planting of a lot of trees.
Rather than renting or buying a machine, Director of Public Works Rob Shappy proposes
retrofitting the backhoe Public Works currently owns. There are other uses for the
attachments, such as trenching.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to allow Public Works to go out to bid for a
Quick Disconnect Coupling and 12” Bucket for the Caterpillar Backhoe; seconded
by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
C. AWARDING OF BID: MULTI-JURISDICTIONAL HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN: Emergency Management Director Dori Boardman requested additional time to
review six Requests for Proposals received. This agenda item will continue to Council’s
July 1, 2024, Regular Meeting Agenda.
D. VIDEO RECORDING: COUNCIL MEETINGS: Mr. Lefebvre queried: Is
it necessary or mandated to continue video recording meetings? The recordings are
on YouTube. There are not many hits, but it is there for the Public. Video recordings
of Council meetings will continue.
E. RESOLUTION TO THE HONORABLE RI GENERAL ASSEMBLY IN OPPOSITION TO H 7983: This resolution would create a State Building Commissioner,
which would seem to take away local authority.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to approve Resolution to the Honorable RI General Assembly in Opposition to H 7983; seconded by Mr. Ellis; and voted unanimously in
the affirmative.
F. RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION TO ANY REVIVAL OF THE OLD SAYBROOK TO KENYON BYPASS: This was fought four to five years ago and defeated. A fast speed train was proposed that would go from Boston to Washington, DC. It would save only eight minutes from the regular train, because where it would go underground, it had to slow down because if it went too fast underground the windows would blow out. It would go through Indian lands, Culter Farm (the oldest working farm in the country and dates back to before the
revolution), and a nuclear waste site. It was set aside by the Railroad Administration for more research. The current Presidential Administration has resurrected it.
MOTION made by Ms. Allen to approve Resolution in Opposition to any Revival of the Old Saybrook to Kenyon Pass; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
G. RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF FULLY FUNDING STATE AID TO LIBRARIES TO THE FULL TWENTY-FIVE PERCENT (25%): Historically, the State has not always fully funded the libraries to the full twenty-five percent.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to approve Resolution in Support of Fully Funding
State Aid to Libraries to the Full Twenty-five Percent (25%); seconded by Ms. Allen:
and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
H. RESOLUTION IN OPPOSITION TO HOUSE BILL 2024 – H 7763 AND SENATE
BILL 2024 – S 2679 RELATING TO PUBLIC RECORDS – ACCESS TO PUBLIC RECORDS ACT: Mr. Ellis read part of the bill into the record: “The amendments would require that all records maintained by any public body shall be within 30 days of receipt by
the public body forwarded to the Department of Administration to be entered into a centralized, online database to be maintained under the control of the Department of Administration.”
This would be a huge burden on the staff. Clerks across the State are in opposition.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to approve Resolution in Opposition to House Bill 2024 – H 7763 and Senate Bill 2024 – S 2679 Relating to Public Records – Access to Public Records Act; seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Mr. Patterson stepped out to go to his car. Mr. Lefebvre took over the meeting.
I. ELECTION DAY: INCIDENT ACTION PLAN: The Board of Canvassers is requesting that an incident action plan be put in place. Emergency Management Director
will work with the Board of Canvassers to formulate a plan.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to assign the task of formulating an Incident Action Plan;
seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Mr. Patterson returned to the meeting and took over.
J. SOLAR PERMITS: COLLECTION OF AND USE: Three recent solar permit inspection fees total $263,208.00. Inspectors’ fees are divided 50% to the Town, 50% to
the three inspectors (40% building, 30% electrical, and 30% plumbing/mechanical) whether
they inspect the projects or not. Building Inspector Ron DeFrancesco suggests that the split
be 80% to the Town, 20% to the Inspectors. Town Treasurer Maria Lawler suggests a 70/30 split. Electrical Inspector Ken Johnson is not opposed to changing the split going forward,
but until it is changed, the split should be 50/50. He has done many inspections to date on these solar permits and was expecting to be paid on a 50/50 split. He was hired under those terms and expects it until it is changed. Council cannot retroactive to a different split. Discussion ensued.
MOTION made by Mr. Ellis to maintain the current formula, the 50/50 split, 50% to the Town and 50% to the inspectors; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre.
Discussion: Mr. Patterson agreed with Mr. Ellis’ motion.
Discussion ensued regarding identifying badges and clothing and safety equipment for the inspectors. The Tax Assessor has done badges for the Town Sergeant and his staff. She
will be asked to do them for the inspectors. The Town Sergeant and Director of Public
Works will provide the inspectors with contact information for ordering clothing and
equipment and help them with the purchases, if necessary. The inspectors also have
approximately $1000 in their supplies and expenses budget.
Back to the Motion: Voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco Abstain – Her uncle is Building Inspector
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
Motion passes.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to transfer $2500.00 out of the contingency/
discretionary fund for the sole purpose of buying the inspectors required safety
equipment and identifying clothing; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre.
Discussion: Whatever invoices the inspectors have for equipment and clothing will be
Paid out of the discretionary fund.
Back to the Motion: Voted unanimously in the affirmative.
The previous Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector resigned in February. Treasurer Maria Lawler
requested clarification about the split with him. Following discussion, Ms. Lawler will pay
the previous Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector until his resignation date in February. Mr. Whitford, appointed tonight, as Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector, will receive the fees from
tonight on.
K. BID NET DIRECT: GOVERNMENT BID OPPORTUNITIES AND RFP:
Dori Boardman, Emergency Management Director: During her recent experience posting for
the Hazard Mitigation Award, she used the Town’s current posting procedures. There were issues. The posting had to be pulled. She then became aware of BidNet, an electronic procurement website, widely used by other cities and towns. It reached coast to coast. Good customer support. With the Town’s current posting, changes cannot be made. With BidNet, changes can be made. Ms. Boardman requested that BidNet be made the way the Town puts
out bids and RFPs.
Lengthy discussion ensued to explain to Ms. Boardman that once a posting is approved by Council and posted it cannot be changed. Any changes must be approved by Council. The Town’s current posting procedures are governed by State law and Town ordinance so must continue. If BidNet is to be used, changes cannot be made. If questions are answered, they
must be put on the Town’s website.
Mr. Findlay will contact other cities and towns using BidNet. Attorney Marusak will check
the law regarding using a Canadian-based website. This matter will continue to June agenda.
L. SHARON MACLEAN: WOOD RIVER WILD AND SCENIC RIVERS
STEWARDSHIP COUNCIL, DUTEMPLE BROOK TRAIL PROJECT:
Ms. MacLean: The unofficial DuTemple Brook Trail Committee wishes to incorporate new trails and extend the existing trails at the Library. She is present tonight seeking Council’s feedback, concerns, suggestions, ideas, and approval. The Town will be asked to pay all costs
up front, to be reimbursed fully by a Wild & Scenic Rivers grant, to be applied for in October. The new trails will be about a half mile and the same width as the existing ones, approximately four feet. The Department of Environmental Management will be contacted to be sure the trails are not too close to the wetlands.
Questions regarding insurance and maintenance were raised. Will there be an increase in liability? Public Works will investigate maintenance. Ms. MacLean indicated that the trails
take care of themselves but there are organizations that will do the maintenance. Continued
to the June agenda.
M. TOWN GOVERNMENT: SUMMER HOURS: Ms. DeFrancesco queried whether Council would consider half-day Fridays in July and August for the Town Hall. Many towns
do it. It would boost morale and be a perk to the staff. Fridays in July and August are not very busy. The staff is open to it. It will not work for the Department of Public Works, so it would not include them. Mr. Lefebvre queried whether the hours would be made up other days. Ms. DeFrancesco did not think so, but if that is what it takes for approval, okay. Labor Attorney
Vin Ragosta has indicated that there would be no contract violations. Mr. Patterson disagreed because DPW would be working five days and town hall four, which would cause friction.
His company had Fridays off one summer. It was nice. He suggested June, July, and August, close one hour early on Fridays. Ms. DeFrancesco agreed to that. Mr. Patterson did not feel
the taxpayers should pay for non-work. Ms. DeFrancesco stated that the staff works above
and beyond.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to deny the proposed summer hours; seconded by
Ms. Allen.
Discussion: Mr. Patterson did not feel the proposal would work. Ms. Allen was concerned
about going against the contract. Considering the different hours, jobs, and departments,
Ms. DeFrancesco noted that it is not possible to be totally equitable.
Back to the Motion: Voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco No
Calvin A. Ellis No
Motion passes.
A. STATUS: JULY 2022 COMMUNICATION NO 16: GOVERNOR MCKEE:
RHODE ISLAND CAPITAL PROJECTS FUND: MULTI-PURPOSE COMMUNITY FACILITIES MATCHING GRANT: 1) REQUEST FOR APPROVAL: SUBAWARD AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND ACTING BY AND THROUGH ITS PANDEMIC RECOVERY OFFICE (“STATE AGENCY”) AND TOWN OF EXETER (“SUBRECIPIENT ENTITY”): Treasurer, Maria Lawler reported:
The State will be forwarding a contract. The amount is still at $522,000.00. Council
seriously has to consider whether to go forward on this grant or not. It is a “heavy lift” and
must be maintained for five years. At any time, if the State’s requirements are not met, the money can be called back. Council will review the contract before it decides whether to
move ahead or not.
B. STATUS: UPDATE TO TOWN OF EXETER CODE OF ORDINANCES;
CHAPTER 14, BUILDINGS AND BUILDING REGULATIONS; ARTICLE IV,
IMPACT FEES: Mr. Findlay reported that the Tax Assessor, Town Planner, and the
Town Treasurer have come up with a solution. Council will await their proposal.
C. DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC WORKS: REQUEST FOR GUIDANCE:
INCIDENT AT 5 WEST SHORE DRIVE: Public Works has not had time
to put towards this project. It has other priorities, such as roads and storm damage.
D. PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO PLANNING DEPARTMENT:
This agenda item has been addressed and will be removed.
E. PROPOSED CHARTER AMENDMENTS: NOVEMBER 2024 ELECTION:
Council will move forward with three proposed amendments.
F. STATUS: RI250 COMMISSION: EXETER HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION: Sheila Boothroyd-Reynolds, Chair of the Exeter Historical Association,
reported: Lauren Fogarty, the State’s Coordinator for this initiative, attended their last meeting.
The Historical Association is forming a committee and contacting other committees to inquire
if they wish to combine. They are thinking of a parade and/or honoring revolutionary soldiers with a plaque. She queried: Is the committee going to be under the auspice of the Town or
the Historical Association? Council previously put it under the auspice of the Historical Association.
G. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS: PROPERTY DAMAGE: MAIL ROAD:
Director of Public Works Robert Shappy reported: The supervisor of the contractor seems to agree to the damage and the repairs. He has not received the police report. Once he does, he
will send a letter to the contractor. The Clerk will assist in procuring the police report.
H. 2024-2025 BUDGET DEVELOPMENT: This process is complete.
This agenda item will be removed.
I. STATUS: WELCOME SIGNAGE IN AND OUT OF TOWN: Mr. Findlay
and the Director of Public Works are working on the application.
J. PLANNING PROCESS:
1. 675 TEN ROD ROAD: Request for Proposals are out for the roof and the basement.
The Clerk has done walk throughs with contractors for both.
2. 742 TEN ROD ROAD: Mr. Ellis reminded Council that Planning Board Member
Michael Viveiros, who is an architect, is willing to do a walk through and make suggestions.
Mr. Findlay suggested a sign at the location directing the public to the Town website, for
information regarding funding, the process, the plans.
MOTION made by Mr. Lefebvre to approve an informational sign at 742 Ten Rod Road;
seconded by Mr. Patterson; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
No. 4 04/04/2024 Town of Richmond: A) Proclamation #2024-5 National Small Business Week 2024: It was April 28 through May 4. Council was in support.
No. 11 04/11/2024 Rhode Island Department of Housing: Invitation to discuss Exeter’s
housing needs and concerns with Rhode Island Department of Housing: Mr. Ellis suggested that this communication be forwarded to Town Planner Bill DePasquale to ask whether he thinks
this is worth pursuing.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to take a five-minute recess; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted as follows:
Daniel W. Patterson Yes
Michael A. Lefebvre Yes
Diane Bampton Allen Yes
Olivia DeFrancesco No
Calvin A. Ellis Yes
Motion passes.
Council entered into Recess at 9:06 p.m., reconvened in Open Session at 9:14 p.m.,
and entered into Executive Session.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to enter into Executive Session to discuss Agenda
Items: A1 [RIGL 42-46-5(a)(2), Litigation, Davis/DuTemple Cases, WC 2019-0383, Supreme Court 22-320MP, and WC 2020-0226, April Communication No. 22, Asa
Davis, Letter Regarding Fee Return]; and B1 [RIGL 42-46-5(a)(3), Security, Town Sergeant’s Department, Vehicle Storage]; seconded by Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
Council entered into Executive Session at 9:26 p.m., adjourned Executive Session
at 9:25 p.m., and reassembled in Open Session.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to seal the minutes of the Executive Session;
seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to affirm all votes taken in Executive Session;
seconded by Mr. Allen; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to amend the Bill Sheet to include payment of $30,050.99 to be issued to Asa Davis III out of the Discretionary Fund; seconded by Ms. DeFrancesco;
and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
MOTION made by Mr. Patterson to approve the Bill Sheet as amended; seconded by
Mr. Lefebvre; and voted unanimously in the affirmative.
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 9:26 p.m.
The next Regular Meeting of the Exeter Town Council is scheduled for Monday,
June 3, 2024, at 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Lynn M. Hawkins, CMC
Exeter Town Clerk
Approved: July 1, 2024