The Newport City Council will tackle a packed agenda at its regular meeting next Wednesday, July 23, at 6:30 p.m. in City Council Chambers, located at 43 Broadway, with several significant infrastructure and planning items up for consideration.
Among the key items, the council will vote on awarding a consulting contract for a comprehensive plan update. This critical planning document will guide the city’s development and growth strategies. The council will also consider implementing a new utility billing system, which could modernize how residents receive and pay their water and sewer bills.
Environmental initiatives feature prominently on the agenda, with the council reviewing an application for Water Quality Protection Charge funds and a grant agreement with 11th Hour Racing for a residential curbside composting program.
Infrastructure improvements are also on tap, including a contract award for AQUABLOK and modifications to the professional engineering services contract for the Lead Service Line Program. The council will also consider a construction and maintenance agreement with RIDOT for America’s Cup Avenue traffic delineator improvements.
Recreation and public safety items include awarding a contract for John Chafee Recreation Area fencing and completing the Noise Trailer Program.
The council will hold second readings on several ordinances, including amendments to the general fee schedule, rental registration requirements, and traffic restrictions on Hammond Street.
In a lighter agenda item, council members will vote on a resolution to place an elephant display in Aquidneck Park, sponsored by councilors Smyth, Ceglie, and Pinnock.
The consent calendar includes approval of several special events, including the International Polo Charity Ball at Rosecliff on August 1, a concert featuring guitarist Calum Graham at Rough Point on August 9, and the Redwood Library’s concert series later in August.
The meeting will begin with a Citizens’ Forum, allowing residents to address the council on city business for up to three minutes per speaker. The session is limited to 15 minutes total and cannot include matters already on the council agenda.
The meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. and is open to the public.
