Woonsocket Council approves licenses, contracts, zoning amendments and $1M ARPA transfer; backs state bill to curb grocery covenants

The Woonsocket City Council voted unanimously Monday to approve multiple business licenses, award a municipal solid-waste contract and advance several ordinances on first passage, including a $1,000,000 American Rescue Plan Act transfer to pay a tax settlement.

Council members also approved a resolution supporting state legislation that would limit the use of restrictive covenants that prevent grocery stores from occupying certain properties.

Why it matters: The approved actions affect local economic activity (new restaurant and retail licenses), municipal services (waste collection contract) and city finances (ARPA transfer and tax abatements). The resolution supporting state legislation aims to address long-term access to grocery retailers in Woonsocket.

Most significant votes and outcomes

- License approvals: The Board of License Commissioners approved four new licenses — Lucky’s Boba Cafe (first-class victualling license, 562 Cass Ave., 25LC11), Lao Tai Kitchen LLC (class BL liquor license, 83 Main St., 25LC12), Mia Kitchen LLC (first-class victualling license, 6 Florida St., 25LC13) and Competitive Auto (secondhand dealer merchandise license, 773 French St., 25LC14). Each passed by voice vote with an announced 7–0 result.

- License renewals: A package of license renewals and miscellaneous license types (25LC15) covering uses including automotive junkyard, bowling alley, class F entertainment, seasonal…