North Providence Council proposes tax increase to address hospital revenue loss

The North Providence Town Council meeting on May 6, 2025, opened with a moment of silence dedicated to the late Senate President Dominic Ruggerio, reflecting the community's respect and remembrance for his contributions.

A key focus of the meeting was the proposed budget for the fiscal year 2026, presented by Mayor Marilyn Boddy. The mayor highlighted a significant challenge facing the town: the bankruptcy of Prospect Charter Care, which has led to a projected revenue loss of nearly $1.9 million this fiscal year and over $3.5 million in the next. To address this shortfall, the proposed budget includes a tax increase of 60 cents per thousand dollars of assessed value.

Mayor Boddy emphasized the town's commitment to fiscal responsibility, noting that there have been no tax increases for the past nine years. She assured residents that her administration is actively seeking solutions, including working with state legislators to mitigate the financial impact of the hospital's tax exemption.

Despite these challenges, the budget also outlines continued investments in the community, including the construction of two new elementary schools, making North Providence the only district in Rhode Island with entirely new state-of-the-art facilities. Additionally, plans for infrastructure improvements were discussed, including restoring tennis courts, upgrading Town Hall, and addressing drainage issues.

The council is set to collaborate closely throughout the budget process to ensure a fiscally sound plan that meets the needs of the community while navigating the financial hurdles ahead.