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Bristol council approves event permits, moves multiple ordinances to first reading and refers bids to staff
Summary
Council approved several event permits (Oysterfest, bingo, concert food vendors, Franklin Court bridal event), advanced multiple ordinances to first reading (alcohol license counts, parking, zoning amendments), amended boat‑ramp fine language to $500 and referred multiple procurement bid decisions to the town administrator or treasurer.
The Town of Bristol council handled routine permits, a set of first‑reading ordinance items and several procurement referrals at its April 23 meeting.
Consent and permits: The council approved the consent agenda after pulling two items for separate consideration. It approved Dewolf Tavern’s request to hold an Oysterfest fundraiser on June 15 with a one‑day liquor license extension and banners on Hope Street; a bingo license for the Bristol Sports Club on May 22; mobile food truck permits for the outdoor concert series at Roger Williams University (June 21–July 2); and a bridal‑event license for Franklin Court Assisted Living on May 14. Franklin Court’s administrator Angela Cabral spoke briefly about fundraising to send residents to PPAC.
First readings and referrals: The council took first readings of several ordinances: a proposed reduction of limited BB liquor licenses (C1), an increase of BV licenses from 32 to 33 (C2), a no‑parking zone across from 28 Shaw’s Lane (C3), residential parking designation for portions of Hope Street (C4) and adoption of 2024 legislative‑session zoning changes with a public hearing set for May 28 (C5). Each ordinance was moved for first reading and approved by voice vote.
Harbor and boat ramp ordinance: Harbormaster Greg Marsili presented proposed vehicle load restrictions and signage for the Independence Park boat ramp following reconstruction; council members discussed enforcement and agreed on a firm $500 fine amount rather than language allowing “up to $500.” The council voted to refer the draft ordinance with the $500 fine amendment to the solicitor for first reading and drafting.
Procurement and bids: Council reviewed bid openings and referred contract decisions to the town administrator and other staff: three bids for annual professional auditing services, two bids for a marina trash skimmer (paid from Harborfest funds), tree‑sourcing and delivery bids for spring 2025, and seven bids for Gibson Road shoreline improvements. Council motions directed the town administrator to act in the town’s best interest on those procurements.
Other actions: Council accepted the resignation of Charles Coelho (Capital Project Commission) and elevated alternate Alan Spen to a full seat. The council received a town 2024 annual report for filing and reviewed an update from the Rhode Island Turnpike and Bridge Authority on short‑term deck patching and a longer‑term deck replacement project.
Source: Town of Bristol council meeting, April 23, 2025.
