Finance committee endorses state tax-exemption measures for three local nonprofits

The Providence City Finance Committee voted on May 27 to recommend to the full City Council three separate resolutions urging the Rhode Island General Assembly to grant property tax-exempt status to local nonprofit organizations.

The committee approved the three resolutions after nonprofit representatives described their missions and the parcels involved and after committee members raised questions about precedent, future acquisitions and the city and state timelines for action.

A presenter who identified herself as Eileen Hayes said she is the chief executive officer of a housing nonprofit that owns multiple properties used to house people experiencing homelessness. Hayes told the committee the organization currently pays property taxes on three parcels and asked the committee to endorse a state bill that would provide tax-exempt status for those parcels and for similar purchases made during the bill's effective period. Council members acknowledged the provider's track record serving people with very low incomes but raised concerns about creating a precedent for future acquisitions and asked about the organization's plans. Hayes said the nonprofit received federal appropriations in 2024 and is preparing…