The Warren Town Council convened on September 9, 2025, to discuss several significant topics impacting the community, including potential grant funding for waste management initiatives and a proposed zoning change to accommodate a dog daycare and boarding facility.

One of the primary discussions centered around the town's waste management strategy, particularly the introduction of composting services. Council members expressed interest in collaborating with neighboring municipalities, such as Barrington and Bristol, to explore grant opportunities that could help finance these initiatives. The idea is to reduce costs and enhance service efficiency by partnering with other towns, which could lead to lower rates for residents. The council emphasized the importance of gathering data on local businesses that might be interested in participating in the composting program, particularly given Warren's abundance of food-based enterprises.

In a separate but equally important discussion, the council considered a request from Ashley Souza to amend the zoning ordinance to allow dog daycare, boarding, and training as a permitted use in the manufacturing zone. Souza, a local resident and founder of a dog rescue organization, argued that her proposed facility would not only serve the community but also adhere to high standards of animal welfare. The council deliberated on the implications of creating a new use category for dog daycare and boarding, weighing the benefits against potential concerns regarding noise and odor.

Council members highlighted the need for careful regulation, suggesting that any approval should come with conditions, such as limits on the number of animals and requirements for sound and smell management. The discussion revealed a consensus on the importance of maintaining community standards while fostering economic development through new business opportunities.

As the meeting concluded, the council decided to continue discussions on both topics in the upcoming month. They plan to gather more information on grant funding for composting and to further explore the zoning changes for the dog daycare facility. This approach reflects the council's commitment to addressing community needs while ensuring responsible governance. The anticipated next steps include a presentation on composting at the next meeting and a referral to the planning board regarding the proposed zoning changes, setting the stage for a public hearing in November.