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Council opens first reading on planning and zoning term limits, schedules Jan. 20 public hearing
Summary
Council held first reading of an amendment to Section 5-15 (Chapter 5, Article 2) on length-of-service limits for planning and zoning boards and agreed to a Jan. 20 public hearing; options include repeal, keep current limits, or extend allowable consecutive terms.
The North Smithfield Town Council conducted a first reading Dec. 16 on an amendment to Section 5-15 of the town code (Chapter 5, Article 2) that would change length-of-service limits for planning and zoning boards.
Current language limits consecutive service; the proposed amendment would allow up to three consecutive five-year terms rather than two. Councilors discussed three options to bring forward for public consideration: (1) repeal the existing term-limit provision, (2) amend the ordinance to extend allowable service to 15 consecutive years, or (3) keep the current two-term limit. Members debated the balance between institutional knowledge and turnover, and a planner present noted state law changes in 2024 increase the planning board’s role.
Town solicitor explained that a repeal or amendment would require the usual public-notice and posting requirements (15 days) and recommended holding a public hearing and considering public comment before taking final action. The council agreed to schedule a public hearing and second reading for Jan. 20, 2025, to give members and the public time to review options.
