RICHMOND TOWN COUNCIL

Regular Town Council Meeting Minutes

Town Council Chambers

5 Richmond Townhouse Road, Wyoming, RI 02898

March 4, 2025

5:00 P.M.

 

A.        CALL TO ORDER

 

President Wilcox called the meeting to order at 5:00 P.M.

 

B.        ROLL CALL

 

Council Members present in Chambers were as follows: Samantha Wilcox, Mark Reynolds, Daniel Madnick, and Jeffrey Dinsmore. Jim Palmisciano arrived during item I.  Also in Chambers Town Administrator Karen Pinch, Town Solicitor Chris Zangari, Police Chief Elwood Johnson, Town Planner Talia Jalette, Public Works Director Gary Robar, Building Official Anthony Santilli, and Town Clerk Erin Liese.

 

C.        THE PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

 

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited followed by a moment of silence.

 

D.        RESOLUTIONS

Please Note in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b) the Council May Review, Discuss and/or take Action on the following items:

1)         Discussion and Consideration of Approval of Resolution 2025-5 In Support of 2025-H 5202 Relating to Education and Regionalization Bonus

 

A motion was made by President Wilcox, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore, to approve the Resolution in Support of 2025-H 5202 Relating to Education and Regionalization Bonus. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

E.        PUBLIC HEARING

Please Note in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b) the Council May Review, Discuss and/or take Action on the following items:

1)         Seasonal Recreational Facility License Application (Continued from February 4, 2025):

Applicant: Wawaloam RV LLC, dba Wawaloam Campground

Location: 510 Gardiner Road, Richmond RI

Expires: October 31, 2025

a)         Discussion and Consideration of Existing Conditions and Zoning Enforcement Status

b)         Discussion and Consideration of Existing Conditions and Building Code Status

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore to Open the Public Hearing for Seasonal Recreational Facility License Application for Wawaloam RV LLC, dba Wawaloam Campground. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Discussion ensued on zoning enforcement, building, and electrical violations.

 

Rae Asselin, Manager for Wawaloam Campground, advised on the electrical work that had been completed that day.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore to Close the Public Hearing for the Seasonal Recreational Facility License Application for Wawaloam RV LLC, dba Wawaloam Campground. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox to approve the Seasonal Recreation Facility License Application for Wawaloam RV LLC dba Wawaloam Campground conditional to the electrical work being resolved by Newport Electric and satisfaction of the violations by the Building Official. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

2)         Discussion and Consideration of a Request of Jordan E. Carlson for a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance concerning a property on Buttonwoods Road designated as Lot 28 on Tax Assessor’s Plat 4C. The amendments, requested by Jordan E. Carlson, are to maintain the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Designation and Zoning Designation of Flex Tech, as awarded on September 5, 2023. However, requesting the removal of the following conditions as recorded in Land Evidence Records at Book 366, Page 143:

a)         The property owner must receive Planning Board approval for the motocross facility through whatever review procedure is applicable to the proposed facility at the time the application is submitted.

c)         The property owner must obtain all required state permits before submitting an application for Planning Board review.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Vice President Reynolds to Open the Public Hearing for Discussion and Consideration of a Request of Jordan E. Carlson for a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance concerning a property on Buttonwoods Road designated as Lot 28 on the Tax Assessor’s Plat 4C. The amendments, requested by Jordan E. Carlson, are to maintain the Comprehensive Plan Future Land use Map Designation and Zoning Designation of Flex Tech, as awarded on September 5, 2023. However, requesting the removal of the following conditions as recorded in land Evidence records in Book 366, Page 143: the property owner must receive Planning Board approval for the motocross facility through whatever review procedure is applicable to the proposed facility at the time the application is submitted, and the property owner must obtain all required state permits before submitting an application for Planning Board review. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Attorney Manzo on behalf of the applicant explained the previous approval and conditions to be considered for removal.

 

Councilor Madnick discussed the history of the approval. He advised on the legislative changes regarding the Development Plan Review. He explained that the Planning Board has not yet adopted a checklist or process regarding motocross facilities.  He explained that condition number two was unduly burdensome and that it was not a recommendation of the Planning Board. He advised that he would support removing both conditions.

 

Helen Sheehan and Joan Kent supported Councilor Madnick’s position.

 

Michael Colasante complemented Councilor Madnick on his homework and agreed with the burdens of the conditions.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Vice President Reynolds to Close the Public Hearing for Discussion and Consideration of a Request of Jordan E. Carlson for a proposed amendment to the Zoning Ordinance concerning a property on Buttonwoods Road designated as Lot 28 on the Tax Assessor’s Plat 4C. The amendments, requested by Jordan E. Carlson, are to maintain the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Designation and Zoning Designation of Flex Tech, as awarded on September 5, 2023. However, requesting the removal of the following conditions as recorded in land Evidence records in Book 366, Page 143: the property owner must receive Planning Board approval for the motocross facility through whatever review procedure is applicable to the proposed facility at the time the application is submitted, and the property owner must obtain all required state permits before submitting an application for Planning Board review. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick and seconded by President Wilcox regarding a Zoning Ordinance Amendment for a property on Buttonwoods Road, designated as Lot 28 on Tax Assessor’s Plat 4C, as requested by Jordan E. Carlson. This amendment aims to maintain the Comprehensive Plan Future Land Use Map Designation and Zoning Designation of Flex Tech, as awarded on September 5, 2023. However, the following conditions recorded in the Land Evidence Records at Book 366, Page 143 should be removed:

1)         The property owner must receive Planning Board approval for the motocross facility through whatever review procedure is applicable to the proposed facility at the time the application is submitted.

2)         The property owner must obtain all required state permits before submitting an application for Planning Board review.

 

Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Jordan Carlson of Buttonwoods thanked the Council and stated he looks forward to doing business.

 

3)         Discussion and Consideration of a Request of P&EE Consulting Inc. Foodtrucksin.com d/b/a PVD Food Truck Events for use of Richmond Town Hall Property, 4 & 5 Richmond Town House Road to hold Community Food Truck Events

a)         Request for a Class F-1 Alcohol License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th , July 10th and August 7th; with consideration of Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st and August 14th.

b)         Request for an Outdoor Entertainment License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th, July 10th, and August 7th; with consideration of Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st, and August 14th.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Vice President Reynolds to Open the Public Hearing for the Request of P&EE Consulting Inc. Foodtrucksin.com d/b/a PVD Food Truck Events for use of Richmond Town Hall Property 4 & 5 Richmond Townhouse Road to hold Community Food Truck Events and for a Class F-1 Alcohol License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th, July 10th, and August 7th, with consideration of Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st, and August 14th and for an Outdoor Entertainment License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th, July 10th, and August 7th, with consideration of Alternative/ Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st, and August 14th. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Eric Weiner from PVD Food Trucks was present.

 

Discussion ensued regarding cost coverages and parking.

 

Councilor Madnick expressed concern about the policy for the use of town property. He stated concern with the costs incurred by the town.

 

Discussion ensued regarding a contract and terms.

 

Michael Colasante advised of his experience working with other food truck events.

 

Ella Babon expressed her appreciation for the food truck events.

 

Thomas Marron questioned if it was a for-profit organization.

 

Nell Carpenter had questions regarding the class F-1 License and Richmond non-profits.

 

Alex McKendall questioned restaurant tax.

 

Eric Weiner provided clarification on the tax reported.

 

Ryan Moran spoke in support of the Food Truck event.

 

Mack Carl also spoke in support of the Food Truck event.

 

Discussion continued.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by Vice President Reynolds to Close the Public Hearing for the Request of P&EE Consulting Inc. Foodtrucksin.com d/b/a PVD Food Truck Events for use of Richmond Town Hall Property 4 & 5 Richmond Townhouse Road to hold Community Food Truck Events and for a Class F-1 Alcohol License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th, July 10th, and August 7th, with consideration of Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st, and August 14th and for an Outdoor Entertainment License for Food Truck Events on May 8th, June 12th, July 10th, and August 7th, with consideration of Alternative/ Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, July 31st, and August 14th. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Eric Weiner advised of the budget for the events.

 

It was noted that August 14th should be removed as that is Washington County Fair week.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox that the fee for each PVD Food Truck Event be $350, and that P&EE would still be responsible for porta johns, Police Detail etc.

 

Discussion ensued regarding fees, contract details, parking, DPW assistance, waste removal, police detail, Richmond Recreation involvement regarding non-profits, and insurance coverage.

 

Vice President Reynolds amended his motion, President Wilcox amended her second to reflect the cost of each event to be $250.  Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Vice President Reynolds rescinded his original motion that the fee for each PVD Food Truck Event be $350.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox to approve the Class F-1 Alcohol License of P&EE Consulting Inc dba PVD Food Truck Events for May 8th, June 12th, August 7th; with Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd,  and July 31st;  contingent upon an agreement reached on a contract for said events for PVD Food Trucks use of the Richmond Town Hall property and appropriate liquor liability policy naming the Town of Richmond. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore to approve the Outdoor Entertainment License of P&EE Consulting Inc dba PVD Food Truck Events for May 8th, June 12th, and August 7th; with Alternative/Rain dates of May 29th, June 5th, July 3rd, and, July 31st; contingent on an agreement in place for use of Town Hall property. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore to continue the discussion of the final contract on the use of the Richmond Town Hall Property for the PVD Food Truck Events to the next meeting on March 18th, 2025. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

F.         NEW HIRES

Please Note in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b) the Council May Review, Discuss and/or take Action on the following items:

1)         Discussion and Consideration of Hiring Nicholas Linacre as EMA Director

 

Nicholas Linacre was present.

 

Town Administrator Pinch advised on Mr. Linacre's credentials.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Madnick, seconded by President Wilcox to Hire Nicholas Linacre as EMA director. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

G.        APPOINTMENTS AND RESIGNATIONS

Please Note in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b) the Council May Review, Discuss and/or take Action on the following items:

1)         Discussion and Consideration of Morgan Gomes Resignation as Recreation Director

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Madnick to accept with regret the resignation of Morgan Gomes as Recreation Director. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

2)         Discussion and Consideration of Appointments to the Richmond Investment for Commercial Health Task Force Commission; with seven (7) vacancies; terms expiring December 31, 2026:

a)         Application of James M Brear as Economic Development Commission Member

b)         Application of James H. Palmisciano as Town Council Commission Member

c)         Application of Jeffrey L. Dinsmore as Town Council Commission Member

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox to appoint James M. Brear as Economic Development Commission Member, of the Richmond Investment for Commercial Health Task Force, with a term expiring December 31, 2026. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Madnick to appoint James H. Palmisciano as Town Council Commission Member, of the Richmond Investment for Commercial Health Task Force, with a term expiring December 31, 2026. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Madnick to appoint Jeffrey L. Dinsmore as Town Council Commission Member, of the Richmond Investment for Commercial Health Task Force, with a term expiring December 31, 2026. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Dinsmore, seconded by President Wilcox to take a recess at        7:00 P.M. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

H.        CONSENT AGENDA

Approval of the Consent Agenda shall be equivalent to approval of each item as if it had been acted upon separately; or items may be removed by the Town Council for review, discussion and/or take Action.

1)         Approval of Town Council Minutes

a)         January 7, 2025 (Executive Session)

b)         February 4, 2025 (Executive Session)

c)         February 4, 2025 (Regular Meeting)

 

2)         Approval of Town Department Reports

a)         Approval of the Police Department’s report for the month of January 2025

 

3)         Approval of Tax Assessor Abatements in the amount of $175.92 dated January 31, 2025

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox to approve Consent Agenda Items 1a, 2, and 3. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Wilcox, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore to continue Consent Agenda Items 1b and 1c to the next meeting. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

I.          PUBLIC FORUM

The Public Forum will be conducted according to Town Council Rules & Procedures Article 6. http://www.richmondri.com/DocumentCenter/View/1878/Rules-of-Procedure?bidId=

Those participating remotely, use the “raise hand” icon at the bottom right side of your screen, or, if you are using a phone, press *9. The moderator will tell you when it is your turn to speak.

 

Talia Jalette inquired about the time commitment for the Richmond Task Force.

 

Councilor Palmisciano came in at 7:08 P.M.

 

Gary Parker expressed concern regarding the Community Choice program and Richmond Development Agency.

 

Tom Marron expressed his discouragement with the EDC and noted that the task force is a great idea. He then resigned from the EDC.

 

‘Alex McKendall shared concern with eminent domain.

 

Michael Colasante discussed the Richmond Investment Task Force and businesses in town. He advised on his experience in Cranston.

 

Helen Sheehan questioned non-resident business owners’ position on the Richmond Investment Task Force.  

 

J.         REPORTS

Please Note the following items are Status Reports and Matters of Interest to the Council and are for Informational Purposes unless Indicated Otherwise and will be Acted upon in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b)

1)         Town Administrator’s Report: Karen D. Pinch

a)         Request for Approval to Award the Dog Park Construction Bid to VRV and Sons Construction

 

A motion was made by President Wilcox, seconded by Councilor Madnick to Award the Dog Park Construction Bid to VRV and Sons Construction in the amount of $12, 345.67. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano- Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

b)         Discussion of Results of Survey on Grant Writers and Next Steps

 

Town Administrator Pinch advised of the survey results on grant writer.

 

Council discussion ensued with the grant writer regarding cost, budget, contract consultant vs. employee, review of a writer, and grant administration.

 

Mrs. Carpenter, Mr. McKendall, and Mr. Marron inquired about the grant writer.

 

Discussion ensued.

 

Laura Rieger shared concern about Mr. Marron’s accusations regarding the budget review process and the Town Administration.

 

Robert Sayer stated he was confused by the order of business, changing rules of Council meetings, and time wasting.

 

President Wilcox advised Mr. Sayer that every citizen has a right to be heard and she trying to find a better balance, as previous Presidents did not allow public comment on agenda items.

 

Council discussion continued on lists of needs.

 

A motion was made by President Wilcox, seconded by Councilor Palmisciano to request the Town Administrator and Finance Director include in the Budget Workshop the costs associated with a grant writer's impact on the budget. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano- Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

c)         Update on Paving

 

Town Administrator Pinch provided an update on paving.

 

Discussion ensued on road paving and, including that as an item in the budget workshop.

 

Town Administrator Pinch announced that the Town of Richmond received an ACLU best designation for meeting access.

 

K.        NEW BUSINESS

Please Note in Accordance with Section 42-46-6 (b) the Council May Review, Discuss and/or take Action on the following items:

1)         Request of Councilor Dinsmore for Discussion and Consideration of the Richmond Town Council to formally and publicly reject the ACLU Municipal Immigration Model Ordinance as presented

a)         Copy of Email from Megan Khatchadourian Regarding RI ACLU Immigration

i.          Copy of Letter from Steven Brown Regarding RI ACLU Immigration

ii.         Copy of 2025 Summary of Model Immigration Protection Ordinance

iii.        Copy of Municipal Immigrant Protection Ordinance

 

Councilor Dinsmore questioned what Richmond’s response will be regarding President’s Trump Executive Order on Immigration. He advised on the costs, public safety, and effects of immigration, and urged the Council to reject the ACLU model ordinance.

 

Discussion ensued on response to the proposed Ordinance and if it was a concern of Council.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Dinsmore, seconded by Councilor Palmisciano to reject the ACLU Municipal Immigration Model Ordinance as presented. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Nay; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Abstain; President Wilcox, Nay.

 

2)         Request of President Wilcox for Approval of a Resolution in Support of Bringing Trolls to Richmond

 

A motion was made by President Wilcox, seconded by Councilor Palmisciano, to approve the Resolution in Support of Danish Artist, Thomas Dambo erecting Trolls in Richmond. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Town Administrator Pinch reported on the site visit.

 

3)         Request of Councilor Palmisciano for Discussion and Consideration of a Proclamation Recognizing the 30th Anniversary of East Coast Karate and Kyoshi David Aherns

 

Councilor Palmisciano and Councilor Dinsmore reported on the positive impact of Kyoshi David Aherns on the community.

 

A motion was made by Councilor Palmisciano, seconded by Councilor Dinsmore, to approve the Proclamation Recognizing East Coast Karate 30th Anniversary. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

L.        COMMUNICATIONS, PETITIONS, AND PROCLAMATIONS AND RESOLUTIONS FROM OTHER RHODE ISLAND CITIES AND TOWNS

The Council may acknowledge any of the listed Communications and Proclamations and Resolutions. Should any member wish to have a conversation on any of the matters, the item will be placed on a future agenda for review, discussion and/or potential action and/or vote.

1)         Communications Received:

a)         Board and Commission Vacancies- February 21, 2025

b)         Human Services Newsletter- February 2025

c)         Copy of Email from David Woodmansee Regarding EDC Agenda Items

d)         Notice of Freshwater Wetlands Permit for Kingstown Road AP 6B Lot 2

e)         Letter from Glen Matteson Regarding Riverview Drive

f)         Update regarding Chariho Cowboy Use of Chariho High School Facility

 

2)         Resolutions Received:

a)         Hopkinton Resolution in support of Chariho Cowboys Football Team and Cheerleading Organizations use of the Chariho High School Football Field for Home Games

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by Councilor Palmisciano to file communications, Petitions, and Proclamations and Resolutions from other Rhode Island Cities and Towns. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

M.       ADJOURNMENT

 

A motion was made by Vice President Reynolds, seconded by President Wilcox to adjourn the meeting at 8:21 P.M. Vote: Councilor Dinsmore, Aye; Councilor Madnick, Aye; Councilor Palmisciano, Aye; Vice President Reynolds, Aye; President Wilcox, Aye.

 

Attest:

 

 

_______________________

Erin F. Liese, CMC

Town Clerk