Council amends and approves resolution on Easton's Pond station; calls for transparency and information sharing

The Newport City Council approved an amended resolution related to Easton’s Pond station that clarifies the term “sediment basin” (also referred to in the record as the sediment basin at Station 1) and asks for improved public information about work and permits affecting the watershed.

Councilors said the water treatment plant remains operational but that the sediment basin and surrounding land had been closed pending permitting with the Office of Dam Safety. The council approved an amendment to apply a consistent definition of the closed sediment basin across the resolution and moved the resolution as amended.

Council discussion noted that while the immediate work has ceased and there is no major new fiscal outlay tied to the pause, the city has incurred modest costs (leasing debris bags and temporary storage) and that long-term improvements to Easton’s Pond could involve tens of millions of dollars. Councilors emphasized the need for periodic community updates, greater visibility of permits and regulatory filings and clearer public communication about watershed stewardship and planned work.

The resolution asks the administration to share permits, provide periodic updates and improve transparency about watershed activities. Councilors also noted Director Schultz is on leave; staff were asked to provide details about fiscal impacts and next steps when available.

The council approved the resolution as amended; staff will report follow-up details and any fiscal implications in subsequent briefings to the council.