MINUTES OF SMITHFIELD TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
VIA TELECONFERENCE – VIRTUAL MEETING
Date: April 20, 2021
Place: Smithfield Town Hall
Time: 5:00 P.M.
Present:
Town Council President Suzanna L. Alba
Town Council Vice-President Sean M Kilduff
Town Council Member David P. Tikoian
Town Council Member T. Michael Lawton
Town Council Member Angelica L. Bovis
Town Manager Randy R. Rossi
Town Solicitor Anthony Gallone, Esq.
Acting Town Clerk Lyn M. Antonuccio
Announce any closed session votes required to be disclosed pursuant to Rhode Island General Laws, Sec. 42-46-4.
Motion is made by Member Lawton, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby appoints Danielle Carey to the Economic Development Commission for a term expiring in March 2024. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0vote
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby reappoints Stefanie Howell to the Economic Development Commission for a term expiring in March 2024. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
President Alba declares that public hearing open.
Town Planner Michael Phillips explains that the proposed amendments are a result of over a years’ by the Planning Department, Planning Board, and the Town’s planning consultant Jeff Davis. Planner Phillips further explains that the goal is to amend the housing strategies in the plan with emphasis on strategy #1 and #2 which includes Table H-25: Selected Properties for the Construction of Low and Moderate Income Housing. Planning Consultant Jeff Davis reviews the new strategies with the Town Council members, and based on these strategies it is projected that the Town could attain the 10% LMI housing development standard by 2060.
Member Bovis asks if there are strategies in place to make housing more affordable in general. Mr. Davis states that the Town would need to allow more housing by building houses of various types as this is what the Town has in its control.
Hearing no further comments President Alba closes the public hearing.
Motion is made by Member Lawton, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council adopt the amendments to the housing section of the Comprehensive Community Plan as recommended by the Planning Board. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
1. Botan, LLC d/b/a “Wise Guys Deli”, 1201 Douglas Pike
2. Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. d/b/a “Dollar Tree #4432”, 446 Putnam Pike
3. New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC d/b/a “AT & T Mobility B167”, 371
Putnam Pike, Unit 193
4. Petco Animal Supplies Stores, Inc. d/b/a “Petco#3748”, 371 Putnam Pike
5. Yankee Candle Company, Inc. d/b/a “Yankee Candle Company”, 371 Putnam Pike, Unit 550
Acting Town Clerk Antonuccio states that these license are in order for approval.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council approve the annual renewal of five (5) Holiday Sales Licenses, as listed, as applied, subject to compliance with all State regulations and local ordinances:
1. Botan, LLC d/b/a “Wise Guys Deli”, 1201 Douglas Pike
2. Dollar Tree Stores, Inc. d/b/a “Dollar Tree #4432”, 446 Putnam Pike
3. New Cingular Wireless PCS, LLC d/b/a “AT & T Mobility B167”, 371 Putnam Pike, Unit 193
4. Petco Animal Supplies Stores, Inc. d/b/a “Petco#3748”, 371 Putnam Pike
5. Yankee Candle Company, Inc. d/b/a “Yankee Candle Company”, 371 Putnam Pike, Unit 550
Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
1. Raymond C. LaPerche PTA, 11 Limerock Road (fee waived)
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town approve the annual renewal of one (1) Bingo License, as applied, subject to compliance with all State regulations and local ordinances.
1. Raymond C. LaPerche PTA, 11 Limerock Road (fee waived)
Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town Council approve a new Solicitation License for “Trinity Solar”, soliciting solar power options, as applied, subject to compliance with all State regulations, local ordinances, and the following conditions: The Smithfield Police Department is to be notified each time the applicant is soliciting, including which area of Town solicitation will take place. Solicitation may take place between the hours of 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. only. If conditions of the license are not adhered to, the applicant will be required to appear before the Town Council. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0.
Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
All Special Event Licenses for Make it Happen Nutrition are subject to compliance with all State regulations and local ordinances.
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Member Bovis, that the Smithfield Town Council approve one (1) One-Day Special Event License for Make it Happen Nutrition for a “Grand Opening”, 592 Putnam Pike on the following date:
• Saturday, April 24, 2021 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
All Special Event Licenses for Make it Happen Nutrition are subject to compliance with all State regulations and local ordinances.
Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
1. The Sevigny Group, LLC d/b/a “Smithfield Fitness”, 970 Douglas Pike
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town Council upon approving the annual renewal of one (1) Victualling Only License, as applied, subject to compliance with all State regulations and local ordinances.
1. The Sevigny Group, LLC d/b/a “Smithfield Fitness”, 970 Douglas Pike
Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Town Manager Rossi explains that this item was discussed at the Town Council meeting of April 6, 2021, and additional information was provided to the Town Council. Town Manager Rossi further explains that conversations have also taken place with the members and the Town Solicitor regarding the best way to proceed to enable this legislation.
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town Council supports the Act entitled “PROPERTY SUBJECT TO TAXATION”, and requests that the Town’s legislative delegation introduce said Act in the present session of the General Assembly. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Town Manager Rossi states that this item was discussed earlier this evening with a presentation by the Police Chief describing Deputy Chief Dolan’s stellar work.
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby authorizes the employment contract for Eric E. Dolan as Deputy Chief of Police through June 30, 2024. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Gary Menissian of Ocean State Multisport explains that they have held eight (8) races, post COVID, before with no issues. Mr. Menissian further explains that they have emailed all of the participants to know if anyone had contracted the virus. Mr.Menissian also explains that he has been working with EMA Director Todd Manni, who attends all of the events to ensure everything is running smoothly.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby authorizes a request from Ocean State Multisport to hold a Mad Moose Road Race on September 26, 2021. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Finance Director Brian Silvia explains that this RFP has been reviewed and approved by the Auditor General and Town Solicitor, and the effective dates listed will be from July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024. Director Silvia further explains that the bid opening is scheduled for Thursday, May 20, 2021, and funding is available for this contract within the municipal obligation department.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby approve the Finance Department’s RFP for financial audit services, so that it may be publically advertised to solicit bids. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Public Works Director Gene Allen explains there was a clause contained in the contract that would allow the Town to extend the contract for one (1) year. Director Allen further explains the condition within the contract is the escalation of any petroleum cost, which would be included a new contract also.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a one year extension of the contract for rehabilitation of road services with Pawtucket Hot Mix Asphalt, Inc. of 25 Concord Street, Pawtucket, RI 02860. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Director Allen explains that this is the same type of contract as road rehabilitation along with the same clause.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a one year contract extension of the contract for Micro Surfacing Service with Indus, Inc. of 825 Granite Street, Braintree, MA 02184. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a one year extension of the contract for pavement crack sealing service with Indus, Inc. of 825 Granite Street, Braintree, MA 02184. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a one year extension of the contract for street line painting service with K-5 Corporation of 9 Rockview Way, Rockland, MA 02370. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a one year extension of the contract for stone seal and rubberized stone seal installation service with All States Construction, Inc. of 325 Amherst Road, Sunderland, MA. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Director Allen explains that Phase I has been completed, and Phase II will consist of modifying the existing building to bring the facilities up to current code and provide facilities appropriate for existing and future programs.
Member Tikoian asks if the proposed design would accommodate additional employees, such as the Recreation Department. Director Allen explains that additional staff could be accommodated. Member Allen further explains that the building will be modernized by having both men’s/ladies locker rooms, men’s/ladies facilities, expanding the kitchen area, and more ADA accessibility.
Town Manager Rossi explains there was a separation before with Recreation and the Ice Rink then they became two (2) separate departments, however, there are reconfigurations that can be made. When the East Smithfield Recreation Center is open, the Recreation Department could move there to free up space at the Senior Center. Town Manager Rossi also explains there is an opportunity for expansion at the garage.
Member Tikoian feels that now is the time to think about consolidation. Director Allen states that this could be a consideration during Phase III which is the expansion of the existing building.
Motion is made by Member Lawton, seconded by Member Bovis, that the Smithfield Town Council authorizes the Town Manager to enter into a contract with Aharonian & Associates, Inc., of 310 George Washington Highway, Smithfield, RI 02917, for the DPW Renovation Design Phase II Services for $17,200.00. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Derek Osterman of Colliers International explains that this project is on schedule and under budget and a significant savings was realized through the E-Rate program.
Scott Barnett the School Department’s Technology Director explains that Phase II consists of the final set of equipment purchased under the second E-Rate program that the School Department has used. Director Barnett further explains that last year the Phase I networking equipment was based on a per school basis and this year there is a new five (5) year plan from the federal government which allows for the bundling of all technology.
Director Barnett further explains that a reimbursement of $53,379.68 was realized from the Phase I purchase of $145, 6973.75, and that reimbursement will appear in the School Department’s account within ninety (90) days and then credited to the Town.
Director Barnett states that Phase II will complete the networking project until next year as the libraries qualify for a forty percent (40%) reimbursement.
Member Bovis questions the remaining funds of $82,926.95 and if this includes the reimbursement. Mr. Osterman explains that this is not factored into the reimbursement. Director Barnett states that the total for the two (2) year period will be $307,773.05 and the reimbursement against that amount is $116,129.86.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby approves the purchase of technology equipment from Custom Computer Specialists through the E-Rate program in the amount of one hundred sixty-two thousand seventy-five dollars and thirty cents ($162,075.30). Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Director Barnett explains that this amount is for the projectors for the new classrooms for each of the three (3) schools, which consists of thirty-one (31) locations along with miscellaneous locations that will be getting televisions. Director Barnett further explains that this is part of Phase II and all of the existing equipment will be coming out that is located at Winsor School and being repurposed to other offices and the televisions will be used in other smaller spaces.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby approves the purchase of technology equipment from CBS in the amount of One hundred Three Thousand Dollars ($103,000). Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Building Official Christopher McWhite reads the following into record: “the work of a Building Official is dedicated to the ethical and judicial application of many Life Safety Construction Codes which are legislatively adopted laws for local municipal implementation on a statewide and consistent basis.
Very often, what I and over 64,000 of my fellow Building Officials do every day may sometimes leave people with questions because our role is silent and not well understood. This makes the work I do even more important because my role is to explain, demonstrate, guide, and enable stakeholders of real estate in realizing and making their dreams on paper, real. My passion is to be an educator, translating to the best of my ability, the esoteric King James language of the building codes into common American English.
At the same time, a Building Officials calling is to be a help, not a hindrance. I have dedicated my life to this since 1999, and isn’t possible without the team of dedicated and passionate individuals around me who every day offer guidance for anyone with questions about all aspects of zoning ordinances, building codes, plumbing regulations, mechanical systems, wiring methods, and state and local laws.
We in the Building and Zoning Department partner with many Town Agencies and Departments as fellow public safety officers in all aspects of buildings and land use. Our work touches contractors, professional designers, home owners, business owners, land developers, youth organizations, building professional organizations, women and minorities in construction, and multi-national structural developers.
We are led by the Code of Ethics and professional standards that The International Code Council provides and Town leadership supports. In part, that Code of Ethics says we are to “Place the public’s welfare above all other interests and recognize that the chief function of government is to serve the best interest of all the people.”
Building Safety Month is celebrated every year, this being its 41st, and each year there is a new theme. This years’ theme is “Prevent, Prepare, Protect; Building Codes Save.” This theme speaks directly to our collective desire to build partnerships and shared awareness about building safety. We know that building codes are societies best way of protecting all structures.
Construction codes allow everyone from the 30 year veteran craftsperson to the novice homeowner, in equal measure, to build to the best of their ability, and still achieve their individual goals. It is with these goals and partnerships in mind, I am hopeful that Smithfield Town Council is willing to join with me, my fellow inspectors and officials, plans examiners, and The International Code Council in supporting my request that you officially recognize May 2021 as Building Safety Month.”
Member Bovis ask if this information will be dispersed to others, such as schools, so that everyone has a better understanding of what the Building Official position entails. Building Official McWhite feels that word of mouth is the best way to educate, and he has contacted the principal at Smithfield High School to become a partner with the CTE Program. Building Official McWhite explains that he is also interested in partnering with local boy scouts. Town Manager Rossi states that this information will be included in the Town’s E-newsletter, website, and social media.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council hereby proclaims the month of May 2021 as the Building Safety Month in the Town of Smithfield. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Town Manager Rossi states that he would like the Town Council to consider tabling this agenda item and the next agenda item to a future meeting in order to have additional time to review these two items.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council table this agenda item to a future meeting. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Motion is made by Member Bovis, seconded by Member Lawton, that the Smithfield Town Council table this agenda item to a future meeting. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
President Alba explains that in January 2021 there was a hate graffiti incident that took place at the Stillwater Scenic Trail, and since that incident, the Youth Commission held a forum and a campaign at the schools to promote unity. President Alba further explains that the Town Council has been working with the YWCA to host a number of workshops.
President Alba states this task force would consist of eleven (11) member from the Town, and serving at the pleasure of the Town Council who will engage with the residents and obtain feedback on their experiences within the community and how things can be improved, implement strategies, and to better promote equality, inclusion, and diversity. President Alba further states that this proposed resolution is to create the task force.
Member Tikoian reads the first paragraph of the proposed resolution and feels that it sounds as though Smithfield is not a welcoming, inclusive, and safe community. Member Tikoian suggests amending this paragraph to say “making Smithfield an increasingly welcoming, inclusive, and safe community”.
Member Tikoian also suggests amending the word “promoting” to “promote” in the same paragraph.
Vice President Kilduff suggests changing the name of the task force to Diversity Equity and Inclusion Task Force. President Alba is in favor of changing the name as it is all encompassing.
Member Bovis asks if this task force will operate like a board/commission. Town Manager Rossi explains that this is an ad-hoc committee that will produce action items and not permanent at this point.
Motion is made by Member Lawton, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council authorize a resolution, as amended. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Town Manager Rossi states that he is requesting that this item be tabled. Town Manager Rossi further states that based on discussions with the Land Trust chair and Town Solicitor, it has been determined that having a work session between the Land Trust, Town Council, and Revive the Roots, in order to ensure that the necessary information and terms are accurate, as well as ensure that the property will not be sold during the curatorship, which would void the current agreement.
Vice President Kilduff feels that there is a great deal of information involved and organizing a work session is the best way to better understand this information.
Motion is made by Vice President Kilduff, seconded by Member Tikoian, that the Smithfield Town Council table this agenda item to a future meeting. Motion is approved by unanimous 4/0 vote. Member Bovis recuses herself.
Motion is made by Member Tikoian, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, that the Smithfield Town Council approve the tax abatements in the amount of $948.61. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0 vote.
Hanna from Revive the Roots gives the Town Council members an update on their upcoming spring/summer activities which include story walks, a plant sale, and a presentation to the Historic Preservation Conference. Hanna states that a list of events is posted on Face Book and Instagram.
Thomas Hodgkins of 200 Farnum Pike feels that Revive the Roots have been a great steward of the Mowry property and the Town is lucky to have them. Mr. Hodgkins encourages public comment at the work session that will be held with Revive the Roots especially for issues that are being brought up for the first time. President Alba states that public comment is always allowed at a work session as long as time allows for it.
Member Bovis reminds everyone that Earth Day is on April 22, 2021, and there will be a Town clean up, however, due to COVID 19 restrictions, you may call DPW and pick up a cleanup package to clean an area of your choice.
Member Bovis also reminds everyone that DPW has various recycling avenues such as electronics, rigid plastics, metals, books, clothing, etc., and Styrofoam can be brought to RI Resource Recovery.
Member Bovis states that she will posting a video to her Face Book page on how to knit plastic bags together to make a large recycle bag.
Kenneth Sousa of 2 Williams Road states that he sent a memo to the Town Council regarding trash, which is an issue, but the type (liquor bottles) and source of the trash is his biggest concern. Mr. Sousa describes a car accident that took place approximately twenty (20) feet from his driveway, and DPW Director Gene Allen has been very helpful by clearing trees to better see the road as this is a dangerous corner.
Mr. Sousa is discussing this issues with his neighbors and will be raising this issue to better raise awareness.
President Alba states they are aware of this issue, however, it is really two issues, one of which, is traffic safety. President further states that she has been in contact with Sergeant Braxton who will be putting together a campaign. Mr. Sousa that part of the solution is enforcement.
Michael Iannotti of 97 Swan Road thanks the Town Council for approving the elimination of the H-25 map which has caused great angst by residents in his neighborhood. Mr. Iannotti is pleased with the LMI housing plan which allows for more flexibility.
Motion is made by Member Lawton, seconded by Vice President Kilduff, to adjourn the meeting. Motion is approved by a unanimous 5/0vote.
Meeting adjourns at 8:20 p.m.
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Acting Town Clerk