Police Advisory Commission
Town Hall, 16 Old Town Road, Block Island, RI 02807
Thursday, July 24, 2025
4:00pm Minutes
In attendance: Andy Transue, Carolyn Collins, Arlene Tunney. Also present Police Chief Paul Deane.
Absent: Jim Hinthorn and John Spier
Mr. Transue called the meeting to order at 4:00pm.
Ms. Tunney made a motion to approve the April 17, 2025 minutes, Ms. Collins seconded and all were in favor.
3 Ayes (Transue, Tunney, Collins) 0 Nays 2 Absent (Hinthorn, Spier)
Ms. Collins received feedback on the 4th of July regarding large numbers of kids arriving to the Island intoxicated. Chief Deane commented that the ferry used to be able to control the coolers but now kids are bringing backpacks, and they are not allowed to search these.
Chief Deane reported that the cameras are working and everyone has adapted.
Chief Deane stated that next year they will be trying to eliminate the large number of kids on the beach. The plan is to send out “PR” messages leading up to the 4th, stating that underage individuals will be arrested and the behavior will not be tolerated. The plan is to place all law enforcement at his disposal on the beach and use volunteers to manage the parade and the associated traffic.
Joe Coffen and Betsy DeMaggio came to the meeting to discuss the issue of vehicles passing the school bus while the red lights were on and children were being escorted from the bus.
It was decided that there will be a public awareness campaign before school begins. Chief Deane will have Shirlyne Gobern put out a message on BI Bulletin and he will speak with the new superintendent. It will also go in the Block Island Times in English and in Spanish. Mr. Coffen has installed a camera in the bus and will look into installing more.
The next regular meeting will be held on October 16, 2025.
Ms. Tunney made a motion to adjourn at 4:45, Ms. Collins seconded and all were in favor.
3 Ayes (Transue, Tunney, Collins) 0 Nays 2 Absent (Hinthorn, Spier)
Respectfully submitted, Approved: October 23, 2025
Laurel Payne