Burrillville Council approves funding request for Harrisville Dam improvement project

The Burrillville Town Council held a regular meeting on March 12, 2025, where key discussions centered around funding requests and the annual financial audit. The council addressed the need for additional funding to complete ongoing projects, particularly highlighting the Harrisville Dam project, which has seen significant cost increases over the years.

During the meeting, council members unanimously approved a motion to adopt resolutions related to Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications, aimed at securing funds for local improvements. The discussion emphasized the importance of these funds in enhancing community infrastructure, with members expressing a desire to see improvements in neglected areas, such as a long-unattended house on a local street.

The meeting also featured a presentation by Kyle Hunters, a managing director from the auditing firm, who provided an overview of the town's 2024 financial statements. The audit revealed a clean opinion, indicating that the financial statements are free of material misstatements. However, it was noted that the general fund balance decreased by $1.6 million, primarily due to anticipated expenditures that exceeded initial estimates. The town's unassigned fund balance remains healthy, covering approximately 70% of the operating budget.

Hunters highlighted that Burrillville's financial management is commendable compared to other communities in Rhode Island, which often face more challenging audit processes. The council acknowledged the efforts of the finance team and expressed gratitude for their effective management.

In addition to the audit, the council discussed the Harrisville Dam project, which requires an additional $1.89 million in funding. The council is considering a low-interest bond to finance this project, which has faced escalating costs over the years. The town manager emphasized the need for careful financial planning to accommodate this new debt while maintaining budgetary stability.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to improving local infrastructure and maintaining sound financial practices, setting the stage for future discussions on budget management and project funding.