Woonsocket City Council approves new tax sale resolution amid conflict concerns

The City Council of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, convened on June 16, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including financial matters and community initiatives. The meeting began with discussions surrounding the approval of a financial resolution, which was ultimately passed unanimously.

The first significant item on the agenda involved a financial projection concerning a contingency account. Attorney Fung assured the council that sufficient cash balances were available to cover the projected amounts, despite concerns raised by Councilman Kenoyer regarding potential discrepancies in prior account reconciliations. The council voted in favor of the resolution, approving it 7-0.

Next, the council addressed a resolution authorizing a contract for tax sale services. However, this item sparked considerable debate due to perceived conflicts of interest involving the city solicitor's law firm, which was among the bidders. Councilman Kenoyer expressed strong reservations, citing issues with the bid summary and compliance with bid specifications. He argued that awarding the contract to the solicitor's firm could lead to legal complications and ethical concerns.

Despite the solicitor's absence due to a conflict, the council deliberated on the merits of the bids. Councilwoman Sierra and Councilwoman Gonzales echoed Kenoyer's concerns, emphasizing the importance of avoiding any appearance of impropriety. Ultimately, the council amended the resolution to award the contract to the second-lowest bidder, Rhode Island Tax Titles LLC, which was approved by a 7-0 vote.

The meeting concluded with a resolution regarding roadside memorials and the establishment of a memorial garden program. Councilwoman Sierra proposed the creation of a designated space for memorial trees, suggesting that this initiative would honor lost loved ones while maintaining the city's responsibility for public spaces. The council expressed support for the idea, recognizing its potential to beautify the community.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to transparency and ethical governance, as well as its responsiveness to community needs. The next steps include implementing the memorial garden program and ensuring the proper execution of the tax sale services contract.