WORK SESSION

 

JANUARY 5, 2023

 

Powerpoint Presentation

 

At a WORK SESSION of the Town Council of the Town of South Kingstown, County of Washington, in the State of Rhode Island, held at the Town Hall, in and for said Town on the 5^th day of January 2023 at 6:30 PM.

 

PRESENT:     Rory H. McEntee, President

Michael K. Marran, Vice President

Patricia A. Alley

Deborah D. Bergner

Jessica L. Rose

 

 

Also present: James M. Manni, Town Manager; Brian Silvia, Finance Director; Lucas Murray, Director of Administrative Services; Theresa Murphy, Director of Leisure Services; Rex Eberly, Parks Superintendent; Lance Whaley, Communications Superintendent; Lori-Ann Fox, IT Director; Matthew Moynihan, Police Chief; Craig Stanley, EMS Director; Laurel Clark, Director of Library Services; James Rabbitt, Director of Planning; Mark Russo, Facilities Superintendent; Susan DiMasi, Director of Senior Services; Mark Capuano, Tax Assessor; Richard Bourbonnais, Public Services Director; and Scott Brown, Highway Superintendent.

 

The Pledge of Allegiance is given. The Land Acknowledgement Statement is read.

 

James M. Manni, Town Manager begins the presentation of the Proposed Municipal Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the Fiscal Period 2023-2024 to 2028-2029.  To develop this six-year plan, department directors and staff prepare their annual capital project requests and identify new projects. The criteria for project ranking are based on addressing health and safety concerns; meeting federal or state mandates and/or legal obligations; securing any outside funding to reduce the tax burden; affordability; preservation of existing tax base while assuring infrastructure and assets; and identification of available resources.

 

Mr. Manni discusses the Annual Funding element of the CIP. The CIP includes the capital projects for FY 2023-2024 and these capital projects become part of the FY 2023-2024 operating budget. This first year of the CIP is referred to as the Capital Budget or the “Pay As You Go” portion of the Capital Plan. Department requests for General Fund Pay-Go funding totaled $3,323,275; the Town Manager has proposed Pay-Go funding in the amount of $1,898,125. The Capital Budget for FY 2023-2024 for all funds is proposed at $4,465,213, an increase of $156,127 from the current year plan.

 

The Town Manager reviews the timeline for adoption of the CIP, with a Public Hearing scheduled for the Town Council meeting on January 23, 2023. Funding sources include property taxes, Fair Share Development Fees, assets held by Capital Reserve Funds, State School Housing Aid, real estate conveyance fees, retained earnings within Utility Funds, RI Infrastructure Bank borrowing, General Obligation Bonds, future CIP revenue transfers, State, Federal and non-profit grants, and Neighborhood Guild retained earnings.

 

Brian Silvia, Finance Director reviews the Annual Funding Element of the program and explains the School Fund 428 (School Improvement Fund – Town Fund) and School Fund 429 (School Capital). The School Department Capital Projects do not have a separate appropriation, they are listed to show the complete list of capital needs of the Town.

 

Mr. Silvia reviews a summary of the changes in the six-year CIP program. The total projected cost of the program is now estimated at $175,198,104, an increase of $53,736,819 over the prior year’s adopted estimate. The largest increase is the School Program. Municipal bonds are estimated at $140 million, an increase of $61,340,000. The outstanding debt level is expected to be $14,753,000 on June 30, 2023, and is reducing rapidly on an annual basis. Mr. Silvia reviews the Town’s existing Municipal, School, Neighborhood Guild and Utility debt level in the six-year plan.

 

The cost schedule for all future debt service is presented. Assuming debt service on a School Facilities Bond in the amount of $140 million, a planned issuance in FY 2025-2026 would result in a property tax requirement of $6,743,133 for that year. Debt service as a percentage of operating revenues is presented based on a School Bond Project. In the FY 2025-2026 the gross debt service would rise to 12.09% of the General Fund, then decline in the following years. Moody’s Investors Service recommends a level of 10%. The current debt level calculation is reviewed, and it is noted that the debt limit was raised as of December 31, 2022 based on the increase in total assessed value of property increasing from $5.2 million to over $7 million.

 

Fair Share Development Fees for educational facilities have been suspended since 2017. The Recreational and Open Space Fair Share Fees provide funding for acquisition of open space and/or conservation land to meet Town open space standards, and to acquire land for active recreation facilities and development of these properties. Fees are proposed to increase in FY 2023-2024 to $4,338 for single households and $3,480 for households with two bedrooms or less.

 

Discussion ensues relative to the Open Space Acquisition Program.

 

Councilwoman Alley questions the decrease of $14,000 in the request for the Senior Services Fund. The Director of Leisure Services explains that this is due to having received an additional transfer last year for the Senior Van.

 

Council Vice President Marran asks which department requested projects were deferred or extended in this CIP recommendation. The Town Manager notes that the vehicle replacement plans were extended out. Department heads were asked to present what they needed, then requests were vetted, with some items spread over a longer period. Mr. Marran inquires about the Affordable Housing Fund proposed at $225,000. It is noted that fund is supported by fees collected from real estate conveyance taxes.

 

Council President McEntee comments that user fees support the Enterprise Funds. Mr. McEntee questions why the gross School Project Bond reported instead of the Town level after State reimbursement. The Town Manager explains that the Town is ultimately responsible for the full amount of the bond. The Finance Director notes that Moody’s is taking this into account, and that a new rating policy is being implemented.

 

Council President McEntee asks for clarification of the debt limit. The Finance Director responds that it is set by State law at 3%, and was at $210,606,803. The increased limit is due to the new assessed values that resulted from the Town’s Property Revaluation.

 

Discussion ensues relative to the collection of Fair Share Development Fees. Councilwoman Bergner inquires how those fees are used for Park and Recreation Land. The Director of Leisure Services responds that fees are used for development and enhancement, not operational costs, and for capital projects. Noyes Farm, which is undeveloped, is an example.

 

Discussion ensues relative to the Village Infrastructure Fund. This fund was established prior to COVID and the ARPA program; funds have been used as leverage to obtain grants and for future spending.

Theresa Murphy, Director of Leisure Services presents the Parks and Recreation Improvement Pay As You Go Summary for FY 2023-2024 in the total amount of $220,000.  Funding in the amount of $50,000 is requested for the Old Mountain Field new restroom and concession building replacement. To comply with the new park master plan, additional funding in the amount of $20,000 is requested for full replacement of the basketball court at Saugatucket Park.

 

Discussion ensues relative to American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for such projects, and fundraising opportunities.

 

Mrs. Murphy presents a request for $30,000 for the Green Hill Park tennis and basketball court resurfacing, and composting restroom replacement in the amount of $50,000. Funding is requested for the Fagan Park playground equipment upgrade in the amount of $20,000; and $10,000 is proposed for replacement of the wood rail fence at West Kingston Park.

 

Rex Eberly, Parks Superintendent reviews a request for funding in the amount of $10,000 to maintain a reserve fund for ongoing repair and upgrades to the park irrigation systems, noting that keeping the grass healthy helps to reduce injuries and promotes safety.

 

Mrs. Murphy discusses the request for $20,000 for the park tree management fund, which is a high priority ongoing project. A total of $10,000 is requested for the Town Beach improvement program for sand replenishment and shoreline erosion mitigation, and to replace shingles on the pavilion roof. Funding in the amount of $10,000 is proposed for Riverwalk Park Fence improvements.

 

Mr. Eberly presents the Parks and Recreation Equipment Acquisition and Replacement Program for FY 2023-2024. Funding in the total amount of $33,000 is requested for an infield machine in the amount of $18,000, and $15,000 for the first of 2 installments for future replacement of the 12 foot mower.

 

Mrs. Murphy discusses the Harbor Master/Natural Resource Officer (NRO) Equipment Acquisition and Replacement Program. Installment funding in the amount of $25,000 is requested for purchase of a Boston Whaler Justice to replace the existing patrol and emergency response boat. The Town Manager notes that a grant is being sought from Port Security for this purchase.

 

Richard Bourbonnais, Director of Public Services discusses the Public Works Road Improvement Program. Road reconstruction and pavement overlay projects being completed in FY 2022-2023 are Wordens Pond Road Phase 2 in the amount of $408,870 and Green Hill Beach Road in the amount of $308,000. For FY 2023-2024 funding is requested for Columbia Street in the amount of $412,500, and Liberty Lane from Route 138 to the railroad tracks in the amount of $335,625. The total budget is proposed at $748,125.

 

Discussion ensues regarding repair of Columbia Street in light of the potential rebuild project at South Kingstown High School.

 

Mr. Bourbonnais presents the Public Works Equipment Acquisition/Replacement Program. Funding in the amount of $200,000 is proposed for FY 2023-2024 including $50,000 towards a light dump truck, first year funding of $50,000 for a street sweeper, $45,000 towards a roadside mower, $30,000 in first year funding for a wood chipper, and $25,000 for a brine system for pre-treatment of roads in the winter months.

 

Matthew Moynihan, Police Chief reviews the Public Safety Program. Reserve funding for the Computer System Maintenance Program is requested in the amount of $15,000 for cybersecurity and network monitoring. Communications System Maintenance is proposed for FY 2023-2024 in the amount of $50,000 for replacement of the public safety telephone system. CCTV/video surveillance system replacement is planned for FY 2024-2025, upgrade of the display screen in dispatch is planned for FY 2025-2026, and the video recording system replacement is planned for FY 2026-2027. Funding is also proposed in the amount of $45,000 for the Public Safety Building maintenance reserve fund. Installation of security fencing, gates and signage in the amount of $150,000 is planned in FY 2024-2025 as well as weatherization upgrades in the amount of $20.000. Roof replacement in the amount of $150,000 is planned for FY 2025-2026, and landscaping and parking improvement in front of the Public Safety Complex are planned for FY 2027-2028.  Funding for FY 2023-2024 is requested in the amount of $35,000 for replacement of accident and crime scene reconstruction mapping hardware equipment.

 

Craig Stanley, EMS Director discusses the Emergency Medical Services Program.  Funding in the amount of $35,000 is proposed for FY 2023-2024 for a cardiac monitor/defibrillator, and $15,000 is proposed for a Lucas chest compression device.

 

Lance Whaley, Communications Superintendent discusses the Fire Alarm Equipment and Vehicle Replacement program proposed for FY 2023-2024 in the total amount of $45,000. Funding is requested in the amount of $30,000 for a generator for the radio system, and $15,000 is needed for repairs to the existing radio tower located at the Public Safety Building.

 

Laurel Clark, Director of Library Services presents the Library Facilities Improvements. Second year funding in FY 2023-2024 is requested in the amount of $15,000 towards roof replacement at the Peace Dale Library, $5,000 towards roof replacement at Kingston Free Library, and $5,000 for parking improvements at the Kingston and Peace Dale branches. Funding in the amount of $80,000 is requested for the balcony renovation project at Peace Dale Library to meet the match required for a Pandemic Recovery Office Grant that has been applied for.

 

Luke Murray, Director of Administrative Services presents a request for FY 2023-2024 funding in the amount of $40,000 to conduct an employee compensation and classification survey.

 

Lori Fox, Director of Information Technology discusses the Information Technology Equipment Replacement Program. Funding for FY 2023-2024 is proposed in the amount of $70,000 for Town server infrastructure upgrade.

 

Jamie Rabbitt, Director of Planning presents the Planning Department’s request for FY 2023-2024 funding. The request is for $37,000 for development of Town-wide design guidelines

 

Mark Capuano, Tax Assessor discusses the Property Appraisal Program. Funding in the amount of $75,000 is proposed for FY 2023-2024 for future statistical and full revaluations. A full revaluation was done as of 12/31/2021. Statistical revaluations will be done for 12/31/2024 and 12/31/2027, with the next full revaluation to be done in 2030. The property revaluation schedule is governed by State law.

 

Mark Russo, Facilities Superintendent discusses the Town Hall Facility Improvements and Equipment Program. Total funding in the amount of $105,000 is requested for FY 2023-2024. Proposed Town Hall improvements include $5,000 to refurbish Town Hall restrooms to bring them up to code, $25,000 for the Town Hall Annex roof replacement, $10,000 to replace carpeting in the Town Clerk’s Office records vault, and $20,000 for Clock Tower roof replacement. Reserve funding is requested in the amount of $30,000 for a Facilities Superintendent vehicle. Funding in the amount of $15,000 is requested for an articulating boom lift, which fell short of funding due to supply chain and increased material costs.

 

Susan DiMasi, Director of Senior Services discusses the Senior Center Facility Equipment Improvement Fund. Funding in the amount of $15,000 is requested for FY 2023-2024 for exterior painting and shingle stain at the Senior Center, and $10,000 for replacement of carpeting and furnishings. A total of $10,000 is requested to establish a facility infrastructure improvement fund for the Adult Day Services Center. Second year funding for a Senior Van is requested in the amount of $40,000.

 

Discussion ensues relative to cost sharing of senior programs with the Town of Narragansett, and the status of the Narragansett – South Kingstown Senior Advisory Council.

 

The Director of Leisure Services discusses the Neighborhood Guild Improvements Program which is proposed at $1,200,000 for FY 2023-2024. Bond funding for this program was approved by voters in 2006 and authorized for sale in December 2021. Major infrastructure improvements include exterior main entrance alcove rehabilitation in the amount of $110,000; replacement of windows and installation of a new HVAC system in the amount of $625,000; roof replacement in the amount of $120,000; fire protection, fire alarm and mechanical, electrical and plumbing improvements in the amount of $220,000; and interior restoration in the amount of $125,000. The Neighborhood Guild Trust Fund will be used to reimburse debt service costs associated with this capital project.

 

Mrs. Murphy presents a request for FY 2023-2024 funding for Recreation Center Improvements, consisting of flooring repair and replacement in the amount of $15,000, and $5,000 for installation of a freestanding sign at the intersection of Broad Rock Road and St. Dominic Road to more clearly mark the building.

 

The Public Services Director discusses the Wastewater Fund, one of three Utility Funds which are enterprise funds that require no tax dollars. The Town of South Kingstown acts as the Manager of the Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) for its Regional Partners, the Town of Narragansett and the University of Rhode Island. Costs are apportioned by percentage of use at each pump station. Funding in the total amount of $280,000 is proposed for FY 2023-2024 including $150,000 for WWTF building infrastructure (Town share $54,600); $30,000 for WWTF telemetry and control upgrade (Town share $10,920); $25,000 for reserve funding to conduct an evaluation report (Town share $16,258); $50,000 for collection system maintenance equipment; and GIS system and GPS unit upgrades in the amount of $25,000.

 

Funding for the Water Program is proposed for FY 2023-2024 in the total amount of $128,000 for SCADA upgrades in the amount of $38,000; water treatment reserve in the amount of $20,000; water main replacement reserve in the amount of $25,000; valve exercising machine in the amount of $25,000; and GIS upgrades in the amount of $20,000.

 

Adjourn at 9:04 PM.

 

ADJOURNED,

 

Susan M. Flynn, CMC

Town Clerk