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Bristol agrees to join Portsmouth in interlocal commission to study Prudence Island ferry parking
Summary
The council supported forming an interlocal cooperation commission—proposed by Portsmouth—to explore parking solutions tied to the Prudence Island ferry landing, and agreed on a list of town representatives to participate.
The Town of Bristol Town Council on Feb. 26 voted to support formation of an interlocal cooperation commission to study parking near the Prudence (Prudence Island) ferry landing, after a presentation from Portsmouth town staff.
Richard Raynor Jr., town administrator for Portsmouth, told the council Portsmouth had received a request from Prudence Island residents and had agreed to create a structured forum to explore potential solutions. "Our intention is not to dictate policy to Bristol or interfere with your community's municipal affairs, but rather just to facilitate a discussion at the request of Prudence Island that may lead to ideas or opportunities to benefit all stakeholders involved," Raynor said.
Raynor and Bristol council members discussed prospective membership. Portsmouth proposed a team that would include its town administrator, town planner, DPW director, police chief and council president; Bristol proposed mirroring that representation and adding the harbor master and director of community development. Councilors emphasized the group would be a forum for discussion and not binding on either town.
The council moved and approved a resolution to support establishment of the commission and to appoint the town's representatives: a council member, the harbor master, the director of community development and the town administrator (as set out in the motion). The council also agreed the working group should invite the Prudence Island parking working group and the ferry operator to participate.
Council members asked about timeline and expected outcomes. Raynor and Bristol staff said no strict deadline was set; the group will explore ideas and return recommendations if any emerge. The council emphasized that the commission's purpose is to gather stakeholders and brainstorm practical, including private‑sector, options rather than impose unilateral solutions.
The motion to support the commission passed by voice vote; town staff will coordinate membership and next steps.
