City council asks solicitor for legal opinion after complaints about JK Equities site and tax-stabilization deal

Pawtucket City Council members voted to ask the city solicitor for a legal opinion about whether and how the council could rescind a 20-year tax stabilization agreement granted to JK Equities/Blackstone Distribution Center, and to require additional reporting from the developer and city departments.

Councilor Casey Gregor said residents and neighbors have reported ongoing site problems — uncovered contaminated soils, unremoved demolition debris and unpaid contractor liens — and framed the issue as one of public health and accountability. "I'm proposing that we rescind the 20 year stabilization agreement," Gregor said during the council meeting.

Council President Mercer and other councilors favored seeking formal legal advice rather than attempting immediate council action. The council voted to send a written request to the city solicitor for an opinion on whether the council could rescind that specific tax-stabilization agreement and, if so, how it should proceed and what the legal ramifications would be.

The motion also directed the clerk to circulate the developer's most recent quarterly report to councilors by email ahead of the council meeting on July 9 and asked planning staff to compile permits, approvals and related records issued for the project between April 8 and the July 9 meeting. The council additionally requested an updated list of subsequent permits and actions to be provided in advance of an August 6 in-person update from the developer.

Councilors said the requests aim to give the council and the public documentary material and legal guidance before considering further steps.

The motion passed by the council. Councilors who spoke included Gregor, Rubio, Ruggio and President Mercer.