WARREN TOWN COUNCIL MEETING
The Town Council of the Town of Warren, State of Rhode Island in Bristol County met in person, and live-streamed Tuesday the 15th day of February 2024, the meeting was called to order at 7:00 PM.
Present: Council President John W. Hanley, Councilmember Keri M. Cronin, and Councilman P. Brandt Heckert.
Absent: Vice President Steven P. Calenda, and Councilman Joseph A. DePasquale.
Agenda and Attachments: https://clerkshq.com/warren-ri
Led by Council President John W. Hanley.
Written public comment to be read into the record must be received via email or in writing by Town Clerk Sandrea Speroni (ssperoni@townofwarren-ri.gov) no later than 4:00 PM on February 13, 2024.
No public Comment
Bristol-Warren Regional School Joint Finance Committee-1 position available (3 members)
1. Sheila M. Raposa-14 Cottage Street, Warren, RI 02885
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to appoint Sheila M. Raposa-14 Cottage Street, Warren, RI 02885 to the Bristol-Warren Regional School Joint Finance Committee The motion passed unanimously.
Conservation Commission – 1 position available (7 members)
1.
Economic Development Board-1 position available (10 members + 2 alternates)
1. Mrs. Jennifer Peters-70 Coomer Avenue, Warren, RI 02885
2. Ms. Ana Margarita Cabrera-21 Federal Street, Unit 1, Warren, RI 02885 -No Show
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to appoint Mrs. Jennifer Peters-70 Coomer Avenue, Warren, RI 02885 to the full position on the Economic Development Board. The motion passed unanimously.
Juvenile Hearing Board-2 positions available (5 members + alternates)
1.
Planning Board-2 positions available (7 members + 2 alternates)
1. E. Jenny K. Flanagan-46 Washington Street, Floor 1, Warren, RI 02885
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to appoint E. Jenny K. Flanagan of 46 Washington Street, Floor 1, Warren, RI 02885 as a full position to the Planning Board. The motion passed unanimously.
RI 250th Commission-7 positions available (13 members)
1.
Voluntary Historic District Committee-1 position available (5 members + 2 alternates)
1. Jesse Cannon-91 Main Street Apt. 233B, Warren, RI 02885
2. Joan Brenner Coltrain, 1 Stonegate Road, Warren, RI 02885
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to appoint Jesse Cannon-91 Main Street Apt. 233B, Warren, RI 02885 from alternate position to full position on the Voluntary Historic District Committee.. The motion passed unanimously.
The council interviewed Joan Brenner Coltrain and to be placed on next month, no need to attend.
Acceptance of December 12, 2023 Executive Session Minutes
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to continue December 12, 2023 Executive Session Minutes until next month. The motion passed unanimously.
Acceptance of January 9, 2024 Special Scheduled Meeting Minutes (6:30PM)
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to accept and approve January 9, 2024 Special Scheduled Meeting Minutes. The motion passed unanimously.
Acceptance of January 9, 2024 Special Scheduled Executive Session Minutes (6:30PM)
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to accept and approve January 9, 2024 Special Scheduled Executive Session Minutes. The motion passed unanimously.
Acceptance of January 9, 2024 Regular Scheduled Meeting Minutes (7:00PM)
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to accept and approve January 9, 2024 Regular Scheduled Meeting Minutes. The motion passed unanimously.
Acceptance of January 30, 2024 Special Scheduled Meeting Minutes (5:30PM)
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to accept and approve January 30, 2024 Special Scheduled Executive Session Minutes. The motion passed unanimously.
Acceptance of January 30, 2024 Special Scheduled Executive Session Minutes
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to continue January 30, 2024 Special Scheduled Executive Session Minutes until next month. The motion passed unanimously.
The following qualifications shall be necessary to secure an appointment as a special police officer/special constable in the town:
(1) The applicant shall be at least one of the following: (a) a resident of the state and a qualified elector of the town; (b) a current full-time employee of the police department in good standing or (c) (a retired Warren police officer) a retired or previous full-time Police Officer of the Warren Police Department who separated from the Department in good standing. All appointments shall be at the discretion of the Chief of Police.
(2) The applicant shall present to the police chief a certificate from a physician licensed by the state that he or she is physically qualified to perform the duties of a special police officer/special constable.
(3) The applicant shall have taken and completed accredited first aid, CPR, and other training courses as specified by the chief of police at the time of appointment.
(Ord. of 10-11-2011)
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to approve 1st reading and move to 2nd reading on March 12, 2024. The motion passed unanimously.
Request for a Victualling License
From: Carol Riley
Tatters Handmade Clothing & Afternoon Tea Room
324 Main Street
Warren, RI 02885
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to approve Victualling License for Carol Riley, Tatters Handmade Clothing & Afternoon Tea Room
324 Main Street Warren, RI 02885. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10-5, closed Wednesdays contingent to Fire, Police and Building compliance and safety. The motion passed unanimously.
Request for a One Day Entertainment License
From: Christy Bergeson/Wilbur-Romano Funeral Home
615 Main Street
Warren, RI 02885
Date: February 17, 2024
Time: 6:30PM-8:30PM
Place: 615 Main Street
Warren, RI 02885
Entertainment: 4-Piece Band
Event: House Concert with Becky Chace to Benefit St. Mary of the Bay
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve One Day Entertainment License for Christy Bergeson/Wilbur-Romano Funeral Home 615 Main Street Warren, RI 02885 on February 17, 2024 from 6:30PM-8:30PM at 615 Main Street
Warren, RI 02885, Entertainment: 4-Piece Band, Event: House Concert with Becky Chace to Benefit St. Mary of the Bay. The motion passed unanimously.
Request for a Transfer of Victualling License
d/b/a Balasco’s Pizza
254 Market Street
Warren, RI 02885
d/b/a Balasco’s Pizza (Mario Gamil)
254 Market Street
Warren, RI 02885
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve transfer of Victualling License from Michaela K. Balasco d/b/a Balasco’s Pizza 254 Market Street
Warren, RI 02885 to Saint George, Inc. d/b/a Balasco’s Pizza (Mario Gamil) 254 Market Street Warren, RI 02885. The motion passed unanimously.
Request for a One Day Entertainment License
From: Charles Staton, Jr.
48 Kinnicutt Avenue
Warren, RI 02885
Date: June 22, 2024
Time: 3:00PM-11:00PM
Place: 48 Kinnicutt Avenue
Warren, RI 02885
Entertainment: 5-Person Band
Event: Wedding
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to approve One Day Entertainment License from Charles Staton, Jr. 48 Kinnicutt Avenue Warren, RI 02885
on June 22, 2024 from 3:00PM-11:00PM at 48 Kinnicutt Avenue Warren, RI 02885
Entertainment: 5-Person Band, Event: Wedding. The motion passed unanimously.
**These items are received and filed with no other action taken.
Bristol County Water Authority Monthly Report.
Letter of appreciation from Chief Executive Officer, Jennifer W. Fairbank, Visiting Nurse/Home & Hospice.
Resolution from the Chariho Regional School District in Support of Full Funding of Categorical Transportation Aid as Outlined in RIGL § 16-7.2-6.
Resolution of the Water and Sewer Commission from the Town of Jamestown relative to Request Certain Amendments to Chapter 15 of Title 46 of the General Laws.
Resolution from the Town of Hopkinton in Support of Full Funding of Categorical
Transportation Aid as Outlines IN RIGL § 16-7.2-6.
Bristol Warren Regional School Committee Resolution Requesting Change to Transportation Region.
Resolution of the Town of Hopkinton in Support of Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns 2024 Legislative Priorities.
Letter in Support of the Re-Authorization of the Affordable Connectivity Act/Program from the Town of Warren to the Congressional Delegation District #001.
The Warren Conservation Commission 2023 Annual Report.
The Warren Harbor Commission 2023 Annual Report.
Resignation letter from Voluntary Historic District Committee member Christine Gorman.
Send letter out
Resignation letter from Warren Planning Board alternate member James H. Patterson.
Send letter out
Discussion and action regarding the extension of the contract with Fuss & O’Neill for on-call engineering services.
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve extension of contract with Fuss & O’Neill for on-call engineering services. The motion passed unanimously.
Letter from Beverly J. Dupere regarding various problems on Nobert Street.
Ms. Beverly J. Dupree expressed concerns about the continuing water damage that is being done to her home. She stated that there was not a flooding issue for them until the condos were built. She stated there was a drain at the end of the parking lot that abutted their fenced yard and the neighbor’s driveway that allowed the water from the top of the lots to run down and into the drain and out to the culvert that runs alongside the bike path. She said when the developer’s started construction of the condos this drain was removed and filled in. The ground was raised to accommodate the buildings which the level of the entire complex is above grade to their home.
She also stated these past storms, which are getting worse because of climate change, are undermining their foundation, yard, pool, and overall quality of life.
They have purchased pumps to help with the water removal and with the latest storms they have had a total of 12 inches or more in their yard. She stated that the water damage is continually occurring and is unacceptable. Her question to the Town is how they are going to remedy this problem because the Council and Planning Board approved this project for development. She feels that due diligence was not given for codes and other construction problems that have occurred with this project. Also, she asked, how can the town make the developers fix the water problem of being above grade to their yard?
She stated that her next concern is the parking on Nobert St. The street is very narrow, measuring 14 feet wide. When cars park alongside their house, it is hard to leave their driveway because there is not enough room for their cars to pass without going over the curb. She stated while the construction was going on their foundation was struck by a truck trying to turn around on the street, at that time they did not have cameras installed, so they could not prove how the foundation was hit but since then they have since installed cameras. The problem has eased somewhat because the condos near their house have been completed. However, there are now several more issues. The police have been called several times to rectify the problem. Their cars have been hit several times, one incident costing $5000 in damages. The wear and tear on their tires from constantly going over the curbs to access their driveway and get in and out of the street is not acceptable. At the time of their purchase, the street had less activity than it does now, and the concerns were manageable and now the issue is the three new condos being built at the top of Norbert Street, with the construction vehicles and the outhouse right at the corner blocks your view when trying to exit the road. She stated she does not foresee it getting any better after the condos are built and there are several more owners with cars trying to get in and out of the street, along with the size of the three buildings. She stated she realizes that once the condos are completed, there is not much to be done unless the street is made a No Parking, or a stop light installed at the top of the street. It is her hope that the town is going to implement a solution to the problem before someone gets hurt trying to enter or exit the street. Her main concern is having a resolution to the water problems at the home because the problem is not getting better. They would like to know what the council and contractors plan is to remedy this problem. There are several remedies for fixing the water problem which can be discussed given the opportunity.
She stated that they would like to see the engineering plans that were put forward to the town.
Solicitor DeSisto suggested that the town should be given the engineering plans that were submitted, and also to the Dupere’s .
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to direct the Solicitor, Building Official, DPW Director and Town Planner to look into the construction issues, plans of the property owner and determine what the issue is and what can be done, the Traffic Commission to look into the parking issues on Norbert Street and to return on March 12th Town Council meeting for an update. The motion passed unanimously.
Update and 2023 Annual Report from Hope & Main.
Lisa Riola spoke briefly about Hope & Main’s program to sustain lives and livelihoods.
· Hope and Mains innovative emergency meal assistance program launched in March 2020.
· That feeds food insecure people, sustains. disadvantaged entrepreneurs and supports local farmers.
· Meals are prepared for $10.00 each by Hope & Main members using at least 10% local Ingredients.
· Meals are distributed to families and individuals through a series of community partners.
· Food is delivered weekly to on-site chest freezers provided by Hope & Main.
· No ID, registration, or proof of income or eligibility is required. Food is available at the point of need.
· Emerging out of necessity, this program has evolved into a highly sought after service to seek long-term solutions to comprehensively address local food access, farming, and nutritional issues.
· Businesses at Hope & Main contribute to Town taxes and revenues.
· The resilience of our state’s food system is at risk, as emerging food businesses are facing challenges created by the Washington Bridge closure.
· Your support allows them to continue to flourish in Warren and is more critical than ever as they navigate new operational and logistical challenges.
1. Discussion and action regarding the Town Hall chimney repairs.
Building Official Matthew Cabral spoke briefly about the Town Hall chimney and the necessary repairs that need to be done as soon as possible. He stated that he would have an estimate
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to direct the Building Official as discussed regarding cost and to go to the Voluntary Historical Commission. The motion passed unanimously.
2. Discussion and action regarding Municipal Court / Town Clerk’s Office.
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to defer to the Town Manager and to consider this in the budget process. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Discussion and action regarding Garber Brothers Inc. Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Court.
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to authorize the Finance Director to sign the waiver claim. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Request a motion for Executive Session (closed session) Pursuant to RIGL § 42-46-5
Sub Section (a) (2) (proposed IBPO contract).
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin for Executive Session (closed session) Pursuant to RIGL § 42-46-5 Sub Section (a) (2) (proposed IBPO contract).
Roll call: Councilmember Cronin, Councilman Heckert, and President Hanley all affirmative.
5. Action on matters discussed in executive session.
1. Request permission to overspend Street Lighting account # 01-510-00-2185 in the amount of $40,000.
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to approve to overspend Street Lighting account # 01-510-00-2185 in the amount of $40,000. The motion passed unanimously.
1. Abatement to the 2023 tax roll in the amount of $236.32
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve Abatement to the 2023 tax roll in the amount of $236.32. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve Additions to the 2023 tax roll in the amount of $903.51. The motion passed unanimously.
1. Jamiel’s Park restoration project-Phase 3.
Town Planner Herb Durfee gave a brief update on Phase 3.
No motions made.
No motions made.
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to authorize the amount not to exceed $1, 500.00 allowing Fuss & O'Neill to prepare the BWRF application due February 28, 2024. The motion passed unanimously.
1. Discussion and action regarding Memorial Bench 2024 pricing.
Motion by Councilman Heckert, seconded by Councilmember Cronin to approve the new 2024 pricing for the Memorial Bench. The motion passed unanimously.
Executive Session:
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to resume in open session. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to seal the minutes. The motion passed unanimously.
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman to direct Interim Town Manager Borges and Town Solicitor DeSisto to proceed as discussed in executive session,
Motion by Councilmember Cronin, seconded by Councilman Heckert to adjourn. The motion passed unanimously.
Attest:
Sandrea J. Speroni, CMC
Town Clerk