City Council considers ban on grocery store restrictive covenants

During the City Council meeting on April 7, 2025, significant discussions centered around the issue of restrictive covenants that prevent properties from being used as grocery stores. This topic is particularly relevant to the community, as it highlights the challenges faced in maintaining access to essential services.

One key example presented was the former Walmart property on Diamond Hill Road. After Walmart vacated the site, they imposed a restrictive covenant that prohibits any future use of the property as a grocery store for the next 25 years. This means that even if a new owner takes over the property, they cannot operate a grocery store without facing legal repercussions from Walmart. Such restrictions not only limit the potential use of the building but also hinder the community's access to grocery options, which can negatively impact local commerce and residents' quality of life.

The council members expressed concern over how these covenants can stifle economic growth and limit the availability of essential services in the area. The discussion underscored the need for policies that would prevent such restrictive agreements from being used in the future, ensuring that properties can be utilized in ways that best serve the community's needs.

In addition to the main topic, the council also touched on other community development issues, although these discussions were less emphasized. The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges that local governments face in balancing property rights with community welfare.

As the council moves forward, the implications of these discussions could lead to new regulations aimed at preventing the imposition of restrictive covenants that limit essential services. The outcome of these deliberations will be crucial for the future economic landscape of Woonsocket and its residents' access to necessary resources.