Newport County

Robert Philip Whalen, a Tiverton resident, received a bachelor’s science degree in environmental engineering from Clarkson University on May 11, 2024, according to an announcement from the university. Whalen’s degree was awarded with “great distinction,” according to the announcement. “Clarkson University is a proven leader in technological education, research, innovation and sustainable economic development,” said […]

by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island CurrentJuly 5, 2024 For seven years, a four-letter mistake has haunted Common Cause Executive Director John Marion. In drafting legislation to require a post-election review verifying accuracy and security of primary and general election results, Marion wrote “statewide” rather than “state.” In doing so, Marion inadvertently let legislative races skirt […]

Newport City Council will host a Regular City Council Meeting on Wednesday, July 10 at 6:30 pm. The meeting will take place in the Council Chambers at Newport City Hall and is open to the public. The agenda with supporting attachments will be available on the City of Newport’s website soon. In the meantime, here’s […]

The PPL Foundation has announced that it has partnered with nine schools to award $150,000 annually to students who are passionate about pursuing degrees or technical certification in fields related to the clean energy transition. The Brighter Futures scholarship program was established by the PPL Foundation to support future leaders in the transition to cleaner, […]

By STEVE LeBLANC Associated Press BOSTON (AP) — A new state law designed to streamline the process of developing accessory dwelling units — also known as “granny flats” or “in-law apartments” — is being hailed by advocates as a way to create affordable living spaces amid an ongoing housing crunch. The law, signed by Democratic […]

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) has launched a survey to get feedback from Rhode Islanders on road safety. This is part of the agency’s plans to improve safety for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. The survey is available online and has multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Participants can also tag the locations of safety challenges […]

Senate Judiciary Chairwoman Dawn Euer and Rep. Jennifer Boylan attended a White House meeting dedicated to state-level legislative gun violence prevention efforts last week. The event brought together state legislators from across the country to strategize with each other and with senior White House officials on effective policy solutions to the gun violence epidemic plaguing the […]

Governor McKee has announced round two of Rhode Island’s Community Learning Centers Municipal Grant program, awarding a total of $26.9 million planned for Central Falls, Charlestown, Coventry, Exeter, Lincoln, North Providence, and Woonsocket. “The community learning centers create centralized, convenient spaces for all ages to participate in education, employment, and wellness programs,” said Governor Dan […]

The Middletown Town Council held a regular meeting on July 1, addressing several key issues affecting the community, including a growing coyote problem, affordable housing updates, and a contentious sidewalk project. Residents voiced concerns about an increasing coyote population in town, citing safety fears for pets and children. Karen Harrington said, “We’ve reached a point […]

A new law will require all healthcare facilities in Rhode Island to have an automated external defibrillator and someone trained to use it, according to a news release from the state legislature. The law, which was approved by the General Assembly last week and signed by Gov. Daniel McKee, goes into effect Sept. 1. The […]

A new legislative study commission will look for ways to improve the statewide school transportation system under a resolution sponsored by Sen. Linda Ujifusa and Rep. Terri Cortvriend and now signed by Gov. Daniel McKee. The joint resolution (2024-S 2523B, 2024-H 7915A), which passed the General Assembly June 13 and was signed by the governor last […]

By MARK SHERMAN Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday upended a 40-year-old decision that made it easier for the federal government to regulate the environment, public health, workplace safety and consumer protections, delivering a far-reaching and potentially lucrative victory to business interests. The court’s six conservative justices overturned the 1984 decision colloquially known as […]

The Rhode Island Public Transit Authority (RIPTA) will run a Sunday/holiday service schedule on Thursday, July 4 to accommodate the Bristol Fourth of July Parade. This schedule change affects all regular fixed-route service. RIPTA offices will be closed on Thursday, July 4, in observance of the holiday. The agency also will be offering a detour […]

Middletown’s Zoning Board of Review granted Robert P. and Susan Thornton a special use permit and variance for property improvements at 1 Prospect Ave. during a meeting Tuesday at Town Hall. The board unanimously approved the Thorntons’ petition to construct an addition to their detached garage and install an in-ground pool on their property, which […]

by Nancy Lavin, Rhode Island Current June 27, 2024 Rhode Island’s housing department is losing its second cabinet head in less than three years, Gov. Dan McKee’s office announced on Thursday. Housing Secretary Stefan Pryor will be stepping down in two weeks for an unspecified private-sector job, Olivia DaRocha, a spokesperson for McKee’s office, said […]