Our state representative Sam Azzinaro spoke in favor of conducting a study for local beach restoration. Councilors seemed largely supportive.

Justin Hopkins, on behalf of the Planning Board, presented their annual report and projects and priorities. Of note, as always, was the need for more low-income housing.

Councilor Lombardo got up to speak during citizen’s comments to call attention to the documents he added to the agenda re: Councilor Cordio’s avoidance of deposition and her refusal of the town solicitor’s representation (#3 on the Town Council Report). Councilor Lombardo got up at the second citizen’s comments session to again complain about Councilor Cordio and simp for the town solicitor.

Surprisingly, the council passed the cannabis zoning ordinance unanimously, after months of nitpicking and complaints from the community.

Then they heard public comment about the Potter Hill dam project - mostly folks from the neighborhood speaking against dam removal - followed by a presentation from Fuss & O’Neill. The councilors eventually voted to move ahead with the E2 variation of the project, with Cordio, LaPietra, Aiello, and Overton voting for it, Scialabba and Lombardo voting against it, and Lowther abstaining.

A shockingly brief meeting, probably with the elections coming up!

Councilor Lowther asked the town solicitor to investigate an ethics violation. Apparently, one of the councilors promoted a particular electoral candidate from the dais. (It might have been off-mic; I didn’t catch who it was or who was endorsed.)

Councilor Lombardo spoke during second citizens’ comments to criticize the other councilors for not following Robert’s Rules; he mentioned Councilor Cordio not sitting for her deposition, though not by name. He spoke of the “crisis” (?) not being covered by the press (specifically the Westerly Sun). It is honestly so precious that he is suddenly so concerned with rules and ethics. More simping for the town solicitor as well, what the hell?

In the councilors’ responses, Councilor Lombardo mentioned that the Watch Hill Fire District dropped their lawsuit against the town over the right of way dispute? Councilor Lowther encouraged Councilor Cordio to reenter the town council’s side on the right-of-way issue, to which Councilor Cordio responded with the reminder that the town solicitor was no longer including her in the discussion.

It will be nice to not have to recount all of these interpersonal squabbles for the next council - though I’m sure there will be new ones!

Overview of upcoming changes to the Title IX and Grievance Procedure.

Discussion of reordering agenda items to allow the student representative to get her report out of the way sooner so she’s not waiting through the executive session.

Not a lot to report from this meeting! There was a lot of comments like, “That sounds like a future agenda item,” from committee members, particularly from the the chairman (Mr. Cillino). I think these folks are ready to turn things over to the oncoming committee.