Coventry Town Council approves hawker license and fireworks application for summer festival

The Town Council of Coventry, Rhode Island, convened on May 20, 2025, to discuss several key issues, including public comments on local programs, license renewals, and proposed changes to tax exemption ordinances.

During the meeting, a resident with over 30 years in the community expressed concerns about potential cuts to essential programs, emphasizing the need for logical and fair decision-making rather than arbitrary reductions. The resident highlighted the importance of these programs for individuals on fixed incomes, underscoring the council's responsibility to consider the impact of their decisions on vulnerable populations.

The council then moved on to licensing matters, approving a 60-day renewal for a hawker license for Keystone Novelties Distributors LLC, which will operate at 6 Reservoir Road from June 20 to July 5, 2025. The motion received unanimous support from council members, indicating no concerns regarding the application.

Additionally, the council approved a new application for fireworks scheduled for June 21, 2025, at 40 Reservoir Road, with a rain date set for June 22. This event is anticipated to be part of the summer festival at the local high school, and the council confirmed the timing of the fireworks display.

In a significant discussion, Town Manager Prillo presented recommendations for changes to tax exemption ordinances. These proposed revisions aim to enhance the enforcement and management of the program, addressing current limitations in verifying residency and income. While the changes are expected to improve long-term operations, they may result in a financial impact for the town in the initial years.

The council's discussions reflect ongoing efforts to balance community needs with fiscal responsibility, as they navigate the complexities of local governance. The proposed changes to tax exemptions will be further reviewed, with the council emphasizing the importance of transparency and public engagement in the decision-making process.