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STATE OF RHODE ISLAND, COUNTY OF NEWPORT
The Town Council of the Town of Tiverton, County, and State aforesaid held a Regular Council Meeting on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Tiverton Public Library, 34 Roosevelt Ave, Tiverton, Rhode Island 02878.
1. CALL TO ORDER
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Council President Edwards V called the meeting to order with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
3. ROLL CALL
Present
| President John G. Edwards V | Vice President David J. Paull | David Perry |
| Deborah G. Janick | Craig R. Committo | Denise M. deMedeiros |
| Michael S. Burk | | |
Solicitor Marcello, Administrator Jones, Town Clerk Chabot, and Deputy Town Clerk Veegh were also present.
4. CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed within the Consent Agenda are to be considered routine by Town Council and will ordinarily be enacted by one motion. There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a member of the Council, or a member of the public so requests and the Town Council President permits, in which event the item will be removed for separate consideration later on the agenda.
A. Approval of Town Council Minutes
1. February 9, 2026 – Regular Meeting
2. February 9, 2026 – Executive Session
3. February 28, 2026 – Special Meeting
B. Acknowledge Receipt of Minutes from Boards/Commissions/Committees
1. Economic Development Commission (2)
2. Conservation Commission (1)
3. Historic Preservation Advisory Board (1)
4. Harbor Commission (1)
5. Economic Development Commission (2)
6. Open Space (1)
C. Acknowledge Receipt of Reports
1. Treasurer Saurette – January 2026 Budget and Revenue Reports
2. School Department YTD Budget v. Actual Report – January 2026
3. Planning Board - 2025 Annual Report
D. Acknowledge Receipt of Correspondence
1. Town of Portsmouth - Resolution in support of Municipalities Collaborating in Reviewing, Analyzing, and Responding to the 2025 Affordable Housing Laws
2. Town of Portsmouth - Resolution requesting Continued Funding of the Rhoderestore Program in the State Budget
3. Town of Portsmouth - Resolution in support of H7224 An Act Relating to Towns and Cities – Award of Municipal Contracts
4. Town of Portsmouth - Resolution requesting Legislative Action to Clarify and Reaffirm State Responsibility for Public Boating Infrastructure
5. Town of Burrillville – Letter in support of Blue Ribbon Commission’s report, Equalizing Opportunity: Creating a Fair and Transparent Funding System for Rhode Island’s Public Schools
6. Town of West Greenwich - Resolution in support of S2275 and H7447 relating to Low and Moderate Income Housing – Comprehensive Permits
7. Town of West Greenwich - Resolution in support of H7127, Section 6, enacting RIGL § 42-17.1-47), supports transferring management of the Big River Reservoir lands from the Water Resources Board to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (RIDEM)
8. Town of Hopkinton – Resolution/Joint Statement in support of Municipalities Collaborating in Reviewing, Analyzing, and Responding to the 2025 Affordable Housing Laws
9. Letter from Sandra Van Hof re: low to moderate income housing developments
10. Letter from Sandra Van Hof re: URI Water Study
11. Letter from Susan Anderson re: National Alliance of Preservation Commissions (NAPC) CAMP training links/recording
12. Letter from Katherine Perruzzi in support of Planning Board applicant Robert Jobin
E. Approval of Tax Assessor/Collector Abatements - $4,581.20
Councilor Burk removed item A-3
Councilor Committo removed item C-3
Councilor Janick removed items D-2, D-2, D-5, D-8, D-9 and D-11
Councilor Burk motioned to approve the Consent Agenda items with the exception of items A-3, C-3, D-2, D-2, D-5, D-8, D-9 and D-11. Seconded by Councilor Paull, the motion passed unanimously.
Re: item A-3, Councilor Burk stated the written summary did not accurately reflect his intent or what he actually said during the meeting, noting he had given "kudos" to the DPW director and staff, which was omitted.
Councilor Burk motioned to send the minutes back to the clerk for revisions and continue until the next meeting. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
Re: item C-3, Planning Board - 2025 Annual Report, Councilor Committo expressed concern regarding the high turnover on the board, noting six vacancies within the past year. He emphasized that the Planning Board is one of the town's most powerful and important bodies. He proposed establishing formal criteria for appointments as well as a collaboration with the Town Planner, Town Administrator, and Planning Board Chair to review applications and applicants before moving forward.
Councilor Janick noted that while the board is "very intense," some departures were due to personal or work-related reasons, not necessarily issues with the board itself. Councilor Perry mentioned he would be proposing a charter change at the March 21st meeting to decrease the board size from nine to seven members, which could help manage the vacancy issue.
Opening with items D-1, D-8 and D-9, Council Janick referred to resolutions from Portsmouth and Hopkinton seeking collaboration among municipalities to respond to the 2025 affordable housing laws. Councilor Edwards V reminded that the council had previously approved a similar resolution in the weeks prior, thus she waived further discussion.
Councilor Janick explained the Portsmouth resolution (D-2) RhodeRestore Program that requests continued state funding for road, sidewalk, and bridge projects. She asked that a resolution be drafted for consideration at the next meeting.
Under item D-5, she requested that Tiverton also consider support of the Blue Ribbon Commission's report, Equalizing Opportunity, Creating a Fair and Transparent Funding System for Rhode Island's public schools, which proposes that school funding should "follow the student," particularly for those with special needs.
Finally, she called out the letter from Susan Anderson about the National Alliance of Preservation Commissions. She plans to pursue this further with the Town Planner.
Councilor Perry motioned to approve the Consent Agenda items C-3, D-1, D-2, D-5, D-8, D-9, and D-11. Seconded by Councilor Janick, the motion passed unanimously.
5. PUBLIC COMMENTS REGARDING A COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM OR OTHER TOWN BUSINESS
Eileen Costa spoke on behalf of the Historical Cemeteries Commission regarding a potential ordinance to permit family burial plots on private property (item 8-M). She asked the council not to allow new family plots for several reasons including loss of history, vandalism and neglect, and maintenance concerns. She noted that historical family plots are often lost to time as properties are sold, subdivided, or developed. She shared examples of existing historical cemeteries in Tiverton that have been bulldozed by developers, used as dumping grounds, or have had headstones removed to create driveways. She expressed concern that without a perpetual maintenance plan, plots become overgrown "eyesores" for neighbors once the original family moves away. She explained that the 19th-century "rural cemetery movement" (like the Mount Auburn Cemetery) was specifically created to replace haphazard farm burials with organized, park-like settings that ensure long-term care and public pride. Ms. Costa concluded by suggesting the council look at the Charlestown ordinance as a better model and requested that the commission be consulted if the town moves forward with any related legislation.
Residents Ron Marsh and Marty Quinn provided public comments expressing strong opposition to a proposed automated trash barrel system (Item 5). Their primary concerns were physical hardships and accessibility issues, noting many residents, particularly seniors, live on long, unpaved, or sloped driveways where wheeling 90-gallon barrels up to a quarter-mile to the curb would be "nearly impossible". Mr. Quinn shared that his wife has "very bad legs" and would be unable to assist him with the heavy containers. Both speakers emphasized that the barrels are designed for suburban lots and do not fit the rural character of Tiverton. They requested a system with smaller containers that could fit inside a car for residents who must drive their trash to a collection point. Finally, Mr. Quinn questioned the potential cost of replacing lost barrels and compared the current pay-as-you-throw bag system (averaging $80–$120/year) to the unknown costs of a new automated system.
Following these comments, Council President Edwards V clarified that the council had not yet decided on a specific barrel size and is still considering various options, including 35, 65, or 85-gallon containers.
Resident Sanford Mantel spoke relative to Low and Moderate Income Housing (Item D1), arguing that recent state legislation has effectively stripped Tiverton of local control over housing developments. His key points included loss of local control, the 10% Inventory" hurdle, infrastructure and cost concerns. He claimed the elimination of "required findings for denial" in 2025 laws means the town can no longer effectively vet or deny affordable housing projects. He calculated that Tiverton would need to build roughly 2,000 additional housing units to reach the state-mandated 10% threshold to regain local control. He estimated this growth would result in a 25% increase in town housing, requiring the education of 400+ new students and "astronomical" expenses for town resources. Mr. Mantel noted that while Tiverton actually has over 2,100 low-income households, most do not "count" toward the state’s 10% goal because they lack specific deed restrictions or government subsidies. He urged the council to advocate for two specific changes: restoring the legal findings required for a town to deny a project and changing the criteria for how low-income housing is counted.
Resident Debra Dupont was strongly opposed the proposed automated trash barrel system (Item 5).
Her primary concerns focused on the physical and financial burden the system would place on residents. She shared that she cannot pick up the large 90-gallon barrels if they tip over in the wind and found them impossible to move during recent snowstorms. She criticized a recent town survey, noting while some supported barrels, 67.7% of respondents admitted they would have difficulty moving them. She argued that moving from the current pay-as-you-throw bag system (which she estimated costs residents $80–$120/year) to a sticker-based barrel system would cost families significantly more, potentially between $200 and $300 per year. She questioned the logic of purchasing $500,000–$800,000 worth of equipment using casino funds when the current system successfully reduced trash volume by 50%. She concluded by urging the council to reconsider smaller bins or a hybrid system that is "better for the town's people" rather than a one-size-fits-all approach that fails the elderly and those in rural areas.
Resident Robert Jovin echoed many of the concerns of previous speakers regarding an automated trash barrel system. Ponting to physical limitations for seniors, he remarked that his wife would be physically unable to drag large barrels to the main road, especially if he were no longer able to do it. He said barrels could pose safety risks during the winter months as dragging them over icy roads could lead to falls and serious injuries. As an alternative, he suggested the town provide a large central dumpster where residents could transport smaller, more manageable barrels in their own vehicles.
Resident VA Lopes provided comment on the proposed installation of Flock safety cameras (Item 8A). She opposed the surveillance, expressing concern that installing cameras represents government overreach. Related to the affordable housing topic, she pointed out that the "1.9 children per household" figure often cited in affordable housing debates is outdated and stated the actual current average is closer to 0.5 children per household.
Resident Meredith Mucci expressed strong opposition to the Flock camera system. She criticized the cameras as being "ugly" and raised concerns about the data they collect and potential issues with artificial intelligence (AI).
Resident Gayle Lawrence asked questions about a major state-level Department of Transportation (DOT) project planned for the Four Corners area starting in April. She said many residents and local business owners were unaware of the details. She struggled to get specific answers from the state (RIDOT) and found that even town hall staff lacked comprehensive information. She questioned how the project would affect local fixtures like the Union Public Library, where equipment would be parked, and whether it would disrupt seasonal fundraising events for local merchants.
Council President Edwards clarified that the state project involves replacing traffic signals and potentially adding sidewalks at the intersection of Main Road and East Road. He instructed the DPW Director to gather whatever information the town has to post on the official website.
6. APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS– Discussion and possible votes
A. Acknowledgement of resignations:
1. Bill Gerlach from the Planning Board effective February 6, 2026
2. Scott Toner from the Budget Committee effective February 20, 2026
Councilor Perry motioned to accept the resignations with regret. Seconded by Councilor deMedeiros, the motion passed unanimously.
B. Planning Board - (9) Member Board (3) Year Terms (2) Vacancies
1. Robert J. Jobin, 1131 Stafford Road - Requests appointment for term ending 7/15/2026 or
7/15/2027
2. Phillip M. Deducca, 37 Edwards Ave. - Requests appointment for term ending 7/15/2026 or
7/15/2027
Councilor deMedeiros stated she would motion to table the appointments to allow the council time to develop formal criteria for what a Planning Board member needs as well as the potential charter change scheduled for discussion on March 21st, which could potentially reduce the board from nine (9) to seven (7) members.
Councilor deMedeiros motioned to table the Planning Board appointments. Seconded by Councilor Committo, the motion passed unanimously.
C. Budget Committee - (7) Member Board (4) Year Terms (5) Vacancies
1. LaTasha Moody, 162 Mill Street - Requests appointment for term ending 11/2/2026 or 11/6/2028
Ms. Moody was interviewed by the council.
Councilor Committo noted that the Budget Committee has struggled significantly, failing to reach a quorum for some time and stated he does not see "much of a future" for the committee, though the council thanked Ms. Moody for her willingness to serve.
Councilor Paull motioned to waive policy and proceed to appointment. Seconded by Councilor deMedeiros, the motion passed unanimously.
Councilor Paull motioned to appoint LaTasha Moody to the Budget Committee for a term ending 11/6/2028. Seconded by Councilor deMedeiros, the motion passed unanimously.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS (ADVERTISED) – Discussion and possible votes, subject to meeting all legal requirements (cont. from 2-9-26) – To be continued to a date to be set by the Town Council to allow for a workshop
A. Approval of the proposed amendment to the Tiverton Code of Ordinances, Articles of Appendix A –
Zoning Ordinance:
1. Article II, Definitions: Amend definition of “Earth removal”; add definitions for “Agricultural
composting” and “Backyard composting”;
2. Article III, Zoning Districts: Add Section 5. Transition Rules;
3. Article IV, District Use Regulations:
a. Amend Section 4, Public and Semipublic uses, Subsection (d) Membership athletic
club, to permit the use by right in the Waterfront 1 and 2 Zones
b. Amend Section 16, Prohibited Uses (Manufactured Homes and Composting);
c. Amend Section 22. Adaptive Reuse;
d. Add Section 23. Accessory Dwelling Units
e. Add Section 24. Uses not listed in the table of uses;
4. Article V, District Dimensional Regulations: Amend Section 1. Dimensional regulations table as
to the PFD and TMS zones;
5. Article VI, Other District Regulations:
a. Amend Section 1, Yard regulations and accessory structures;
b. Amend Section 2, Departures from yard requirements;
c. Add Section 11, Design Standards;
6. Article VII, Substandard Lots of Record:
a. Amend Section 1. Substandard original lots;
b. Amend Section 2. Merger of lots under single ownership;
c. Amend Section 4. Applicable dimensional requirements;
d. Delete Section 5. Special use permits;
7. Article X, Special Provisions: Amend Section 7. Modifications to dimensional requirements;
8. Article XIV, Nonconforming Development: Delete and replace Section 1 – 8;
9. Article XVI, Special Use Permits: Amend Sections 1 – 5;
10. Article XVIII, Enforcement and Administration:
a. Amend Section 1. Zoning officer;
b. Amend Section 4, Vested Rights.
Council President Edwards V stated that as noted, the hearing, which had been ongoing since February, was continued to the next council meeting to allow for a required workshop. The council was waiting for a confirmed date from the Town Planner and the Planning Board. The Solicitor recommended continuance to the next council meeting to the extent that we have a date before us that we can re-advertise.
8. GENERAL BUSINESS
A. Police Chief Costa – Discussion and possible vote to install Flock safety cameras on Route 24
Police Chief Costa presented a proposal to install Flock safety cameras on Route 24 (Item 8A). He brought a "backup" team of experts, including officers from the Tiverton Police, the Rhode Island State Police, and Flock Safety to answer questions, if needed.
He explained the State Police offered to install and maintain two cameras on R-24, north and south bound, at no cost to the town. The chief strongly supported the program, calling it a vital "tool in the toolbox" for investigating serious crimes. Noting the town has had two Flock cameras in place for several years, he stated that he has budgeted to expand the town's current two cameras to six total.
The Chief shared several success stories that included a hit-and-run event where Flock helped identify a vehicle involved in a violent road rage incident, leading to a 15-year sentence for the perpetrator. He described an armed robbery in 2026 where cameras helped capture a suspect in Fall River. He relayed how the technology had been instrumental in uncovering a multi-million dollar scam targeting a local senior citizen and had assisted in locating a lost Alzheimer’s patient.
Councilor Burk raised concerns regarding civil liberties and data security, describing himself as a lifelong "strong civil liberties advocate" and expressed being "torn" between the technology's proven investigative benefits and the potential for government overreach.
The Chief and a Flock representative clarified that data is automatically deleted after 30 days unless it is part of an active investigation, that the cameras only take snapshots of license plates and vehicle rears; they do not use facial recognition or record video of the driver. The Chief emphasized they were not traffic cameras and cannot be used to issue speeding or red-light tickets.
Councilor Janick asked if there were written policies at the local and state police levels.
Chief Costa clarified that Tiverton only shares data with other law enforcement agencies that have matching, restrictive privacy policies. He added that although standard policy only requires annual reviews, the Tiverton Deputy Chief performs a monthly audit of the system to ensure it is only being used for active criminal investigations. The Chief acknowledged that while no system is perfect and human error is possible, law enforcement has strict accountability standards to discipline or terminate officers who violate public trust
Councilor Committo motioned to support the install of the Flock cameras on Route 24, purchased and maintained by the state police. Seconded by Councilor Paull, the motion passed 6-1, with Councilor Burk opposed.
B. DPW Director Silvia – Update on current equipment conditions at the Department of Public Works
DPW Director Silvia provided an update on DPW equipment condition and maintenance strategy. He said that that while minor repairs are ongoing, several old trucks are no longer operational and may not return to service. He specifically pointed out a 1999 Freightliner that likely will not return to service and is being used for parts to keep other trucks running. He stated that the four recently purchased F600 trucks were critical for surviving the winter, adding they must keep as many running as possible to ensure vehicles are available for drivers during winter storms. Discussion continued around whether to keep investing in old trucks with high repair costs.
C. DPW Director Silvia - Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution to purchase a CAT930 loader for $233,100.00 Fund 650 (gaming)
Director Silvia explained that the current 20-year-old John Deere loader has a severe engine skip and needs a second fuel injection pump. Because the manufacturer no longer makes the part, the town must rely on remanufactured parts that only last about two years. The price includes a trade-in value for an old loader and is based on a regional master price agreement.
Councilor Burk expressed opposition to voting immediately, suggesting a separate meeting to discuss using casino gaming funds. The Town Administrator noted there is approximately $1.9 million in unallocated gaming funds available.
Councilor Paull motioned to direct the solicitor to draft the necessary resolution for final approval at the next meeting. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed 6-1, with Councilor Burk opposed.
D. Administrator Jones – Authorization to work with Pare Engineering related to a request for proposals
for trash pick-up associated with the prior community survey up to $15,000.00.
President Edwards V noted the item would be moved to the next meeting for Pare Engineering to be present.
E. Receipt of Recommendation from Planning Board related to amending Use Tables Article IV, District
Use Regulation, Section 9.f. be amended to permit “Veterinary office or animal hospital” as a
permitted use in the W2 District, and request to advertise the proposed amendment for a public
hearing
Councilor Burk motioned to schedule a public hearing for proposed amendment to Use Tables Article IV, District Use Regulation, Section 9.f. be amended to permit “Veterinary office or animal hospital” as a permitted use in the W2 District. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
F. Council President Edwards V – Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution 2026-0006 in
support of H-7298 Relating to Tax Classification in Tiverton
Councilor Burk motioned to approve Resolution 2026-0006 in support of H-7298 Relating to Tax Classification in Tiverton. Seconded by Councilor Janick, the motion passed unanimously.
G. Council President Edwards V – Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution 2026-0007 in
support of H-8181 Relating to State Affairs and Government- The Rhode Island Bridge
Replacement, Reconstruction, and Maintenance – Exemption from Tolling for Waste Management
Vehicles
Councilor Burk motioned to approve Resolution 2026-0007 in support of H-8181 Relating to State Affairs and Government- The Rhode Island Bridge Replacement, Reconstruction, and Maintenance – Exemption from Tolling for Waste Management Vehicles. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
H. Council President Edwards V – Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution 2026-0008 in
support of H-8029 Relating to Taxation – Collection of Taxes Generally
Councilor Burk motioned to approve Resolution 2026-0008 in support of H-8029 Relating to Taxation – Collection of Taxes Generally. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
I. Council President Edwards V – Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution 2026-0009 in
support of H-8025 Relating to Taxation – Property Subject to Taxation
Councilor Burk stated he believed there should be an income based exemption and not just flat age based.
Councilor Perry motioned to approve Resolution 2026-0009 in support of H-8025 Relating to Taxation – Property Subject to Taxation. Seconded by Councilor Paull, the motion passed 6-1, with Councilor Burk opposed.
J. Council President Edwards V – Discussion and possible vote to approve Resolution 2026-0010 in
support of H-8026 Relating to Taxation – Tiverton Tax Credits for Disabled Veterans
Councilor Paull motioned to approve Resolution 2026-0010 in support of H-8026 Relating to Taxation – Tiverton Tax Credits for Disabled Veterans. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
K. Administrator Jones – Update on Town Hall renovations
The Administrator reported that while work is proceeding, the installation of new carpeting was delayed due to pending final sign-offs from building officials and engineers. However, structural columns have been removed and the flooring has been abated. He expects the carpeting to be finished within a few weeks, allowing the front of the Town Hall to reopen. Plans are also in place to create a permanent, "plug and play" audiovisual area for meeting recordings.
Councilor Committo expressed disappointment with the contractor, stating that the work quality and timelines have not met expectations. He specifically questioned the structural support of the remaining columns, suggesting the contractor may be "in over his head".
L. Administrator Jones – Permission for Town to apply for Federal Congressional Earmark Appropriation
Administrator Jones recommended applying for a $4 million federal congressional earmark to relocate the town's emergency shelter from the middle school to the high school. He explained the proposed funding would cover significant renovations to the high school auditorium, the establishment of a kitchen, and the purchase of a generator. He added that as the grant spans three years, the town could spread its matching costs over multiple fiscal cycles.
Councilor Burk motioned to give the Administrator permission to apply for the federal earmark. Seconded by Councilor Perry, the motion passed unanimously.
M. Council President Edwards V – Discussion related to potential ordinance to permit family burial plots,
instruction to Town Solicitor.
President Edwards introduced the item, noting it had come in as a resident request.
Councilor Committo spoke in favor of the proposal, arguing that residents should have the right to do what they want with their own land, though suggested involving the Historical Cemeteries Commission for input. Councilor Burk emphasized that zoning already restricts property use for good reason and questioned who would be responsible for perpetual maintenance once a property is sold. Councilor DeMedeiros raised concerns about future property resale value, questioning who would want to buy a home with a body buried in the backyard. After a brief poll, the majority of the council voiced opposition. The Solicitor concludes that the proposal is "dead" and will not move forward.
N. Administrator Jones - Discussion and possible vote to ratify the proposed fiscal impact statement to
the existing contract for DPW Director Silvia, effective 1/14/2026
O. Administrator Jones - Discussion and possible vote to ratify the proposed fiscal impact statement to
the existing contract for Tax Assessor David Robert, retroactive to 12/10/2025.
P. Administrator Jones - Discussion and possible vote to ratify the proposed contract and salary increase
for Zoning Officer John Frank
Administrator Jones presented fiscal impact statements for the three existing employee contracts (items N, O. and P). He clarifies these are not new evaluations but contractually obligated pay increases already factored into the hiring agreements. Relative to the DPW Director’s six-month pay increase, the Administrator noted any budgeted difference will be covered by council contingency funds, if necessary.
Councilor Perry motioned to approve items N. O. and P. altogether. Councilor Paull seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
Q. Scheduling of Charter Review Amendments meeting – Saturday, March 21, 2026
After brief discussion, the meeting is set for Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 9:00 am.
R. Clerk Chabot - Notice of Rabies Clinic, Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Sandywoods Community Center,
43 Muse Way from 10am to 1pm
Clerk Chabot announced that a low-cost rabies clinic is scheduled for Saturday, March 14, 2026, at the Sandywoods Community Center from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The event was organized by Animal Control Officer Santini and the Clerk’s office will be on-site to process license applications for dogs, cats, and ferrets at a cost of $10 per animal. Residents are instructed to bring their cats and ferrets in carriers for the safety of all animals present.
9. ADJOURNMENT
Councilor deMedeiros motioned to adjourn the meeting. Councilor Perry seconded the motion. The motion passed unanimously.
The meeting adjourned at 9:17 PM.
A True Copy.
ATTEST______________________________________
Jean Marie Veegh, Deputy Town Clerk