The Newport City Council convened on May 22, 2024, to address several key agenda items, primarily focused on the approval of various licenses for local businesses. The meeting began with a motion to approve a viddling license for Smokehouse Restaurant, Incorporated, operating as Smokehouse 31 Scotts Wharf. The motion received unanimous support from the council members present.

Following this, the council discussed another viddling license for Caliente J A LLC, doing business as Caliente Mexican Grill, located at 462 Thames Street. This motion also passed without opposition. The council then moved to renew a viddling license for Kidney Cusick, operating as Gooseberry Concession and Grill on Ocean Avenue. A brief discussion ensued regarding the necessity of beach concession licenses, confirming that all beach concessions in Newport must apply for this license if they meet the defined criteria.

The meeting continued with the approval of a viddling license for Boba on Bowens LLC, located at 30 Bowens Wharf, which was also unanimously approved. The council then shifted focus to an entertainment license for 1899 LSC, doing business as the Heritage Group, which will allow entertainment from Sunday through Saturday, 11 AM to 1 AM. A public hearing was held for this item, and after confirming that proper notifications were sent to abutters, the council closed the hearing and approved the license.

Lastly, the council approved an entertainment license for Smokehouse Restaurant, Incorporated, allowing entertainment on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 12 PM to 9 PM. This motion also received unanimous support.

In summary, the Newport City Council's meeting resulted in the successful approval of multiple licenses aimed at enhancing local business operations and entertainment offerings, reflecting the council's ongoing commitment to supporting the community's economic development.