Council discusses Charter Review Committee timeline and amends rules of order procedures

The North Smithfield Town Council on May 5 discussed the charter review committee nd approved multiple revisions to its rules of order intended to clarify agenda procedures and notice requirements.

The council scheduled the Charter Review Committee—irst meeting for May 29 at 6 p.m. and debated the committee's completion date. The proposed timeline the liaison presented called for work to be completed in time to prepare ballot questions for the November 2026 election; some councilors asked for the committee to continue through December 2026 so members could review election results and finalize any remaining tasks.

Councilors also considered administrative and staffing support for the committee and discussed budgeting for clerk or e-code assistance. The administration said it would meet with the committee and recommended staff support be formalized so the committee could obtain document codification help if needed.

Separately, the council approved changes to the town council rules of order: it removed an asterisked cross-reference that had become obsolete; added language requiring that any council member who adds an agenda item provide a description and backup to the town clerk and council president; and added a requirement that a councilor notify the clerk and the council president at least six hours before a meeting if they expect to be absent, by telephone, text or email. Councilors also voted to include a standard note on agendas that the order of items is subject to change.

Why it matters: The CRC schedule determines whether proposed charter amendments can be placed on the November 2026 ballot; the rules changes improve transparency and formalize notice and backup procedures for agenda items.

Meeting context: The council tabled some timing decisions to allow the CRC to meet and provide input; revisions to rules were adopted by motion and roll call.