The Newport City Council postponed a vote on a $98.5 million bond resolution Wednesday night after concerns were raised about changes to project allocations and a lack of public input.
The resolution, which would identify projects and allocations for a bond referendum to be placed on the November 2024 ballot, was continued to the next council meeting to allow for further review and discussion.
Councilor Dave Carlin expressed unease about modifications to the allocation list since it was first presented in February, particularly regarding funds for Rogers High School.
“The wording did change. I’m very uncomfortable with the semicolon Rogers completion,” Carlin said. “We’ve given them enough money. They promised us time and time again that this is the last time we’ll come asking for money.”
The resolution includes $10 million for “Rogers High School landfill and disposition of remaining soil Rogers completion.” This item replaced a previously discussed allocation for Harrison Avenue dump remediation.
Resident Pete Rice questioned the process and changes, asking, “Who gets to make the changes? Does the public get a shot at this before we’re asked to spend to pony up another 98.5 million?”
City Manager Colin Kennedy explained that while the $98.5 million total is fixed, individual allocations are estimates that can be adjusted. He emphasized that the council would vote again on specific contract allocations for projects.
Councilor Carlin moved to continue the item to the next meeting, citing the need for more transparency and time to review the changes. The motion passed with one dissenting vote.
Councilor Mark Aramli supported the continuance, stating, “We do not want the public thinking we passed this in the middle of the night. We want to be as transparent as possible with a process like this.”
The council requested additional information on project estimates and encouraged public input before the next meeting. The bond referendum is scheduled to appear on the November 2024 ballot regardless of when the council approves the resolution.
Resolution & Supporting Documents
