Newport City Council approves harbor master recommendations for boating and elephant exhibit
October 23, 2024 | Newport City, Newport County, Rhode Island
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During the Newport City Council's regular meeting on October 23, 2024, significant decisions were made that aim to enhance community access to boating and public art, while also addressing infrastructure improvements.
One of the key highlights was the approval of an ordinance amendment requiring all rental mooring permit holders to carry business liability insurance. This measure, recommended by the Harbor Master, aims to ensure safety and accountability in Newport Harbor. The council also approved a $20,000 contract for the construction and installation of a small boat mooring field, which will provide new boating opportunities for residents. The moorings will be city-owned and allocated through a lottery system, specifically for Newport residents who do not currently have moorings. This initiative is expected to increase waterfront access and encourage more residents to engage in boating activities.
In addition to boating access, the council discussed the acceptance of a gift from Arts in Newport—a sculpture of Lila the elephant, part of a previous exhibit. The elephant will be displayed in a yet-to-be-determined location, with the intention of creating an attractive public space. A local resident proposed a site for the elephant in a bocce court area, which would be enhanced with landscaping and signage to promote both the elephant and nearby businesses. The council expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting its potential to draw foot traffic and enhance community engagement.
Furthermore, the council approved a Rhode Island Department of Transportation agreement to secure funding for road repairs within the city, which will involve a state reimbursement of $184,211. This funding is part of a matching program aimed at improving local infrastructure.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing community resources, from boating access to public art, while also ensuring the maintenance and improvement of city infrastructure. These initiatives reflect a broader goal of fostering a vibrant and accessible Newport for all residents.
One of the key highlights was the approval of an ordinance amendment requiring all rental mooring permit holders to carry business liability insurance. This measure, recommended by the Harbor Master, aims to ensure safety and accountability in Newport Harbor. The council also approved a $20,000 contract for the construction and installation of a small boat mooring field, which will provide new boating opportunities for residents. The moorings will be city-owned and allocated through a lottery system, specifically for Newport residents who do not currently have moorings. This initiative is expected to increase waterfront access and encourage more residents to engage in boating activities.
In addition to boating access, the council discussed the acceptance of a gift from Arts in Newport—a sculpture of Lila the elephant, part of a previous exhibit. The elephant will be displayed in a yet-to-be-determined location, with the intention of creating an attractive public space. A local resident proposed a site for the elephant in a bocce court area, which would be enhanced with landscaping and signage to promote both the elephant and nearby businesses. The council expressed enthusiasm for the project, noting its potential to draw foot traffic and enhance community engagement.
Furthermore, the council approved a Rhode Island Department of Transportation agreement to secure funding for road repairs within the city, which will involve a state reimbursement of $184,211. This funding is part of a matching program aimed at improving local infrastructure.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing community resources, from boating access to public art, while also ensuring the maintenance and improvement of city infrastructure. These initiatives reflect a broader goal of fostering a vibrant and accessible Newport for all residents.
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