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Council tables resolution supporting Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns pending review
Summary
Council members expressed concern about some League policy positions, including transparency and a proposed change to a 4% tax cap, and voted to table a resolution supporting the League's 2025 legislative priorities until the April 1 meeting.
The Smithfield Town Council on March 4 voted to table a resolution supporting the Rhode Island League of Cities and Towns' 2025 legislative priorities and move the item to the council's April 1 meeting after members voiced concerns and asked for more information.
Tom Hodgkins and several council members criticized the League for taking policy positions they said were not directly vetted with Smithfield residents. Commenters raised two specific concerns recorded in the meeting: opposition by the League to proposed strengthening of the Access to Public Records Act (APRA) last year, and support for removing a 4% cap on municipal tax increases. At least one council member said the League has at times promoted policies that would reduce local control over land-use decisions.
Council members said the resolution provided by the League was broad and that they would like time to review specific bills and the League's position statements before voting. One council member noted participation by town managers and administrators in the League and suggested returning the item with a clearer list of League priorities and any proposed language changes. The motion to table to the April 1 meeting passed; the chair announced "Ayes have it."
