The Newport City Council held a regular meeting on October 23, 2024, where significant discussions centered around the proposed $98.5 million bond for infrastructure projects, particularly addressing the disposal of toxic soil at the Rogers High School construction site.

The meeting began with Councilor Carlin raising concerns about the toxic soil, which has accumulated to over 54,000 cubic yards, affecting approximately 14 neighboring residents. He emphasized the urgency of addressing this environmental issue, stating that the soil's removal was a priority for the council. Carlin noted that previous assurances from the school building committee regarding the reuse of the soil had not materialized, leading to frustration among residents.

Councilor Lima sought clarification on whether the school building committee had officially stated that the soil would not be reused. The discussion revealed that recent changes in environmental regulations might allow for some of the soil to be reused, but the consensus remained that a significant portion would need to be disposed of properly.

The council debated the allocation of the proposed bond funds, with Carlin advocating for $10 million specifically earmarked for the soil's removal. He expressed skepticism about whether this amount would suffice, citing a recent estimate from the U.S. Navy, which indicated that the removal of similar toxic soil cost $19 million.

Councilor Romy highlighted the dual responsibilities of completing the Rogers High School and addressing the toxic soil issue, asserting that both objectives should not be seen as mutually exclusive. He noted that the school only required an additional $2.9 million to be occupied, suggesting that the city could potentially fund this without relying on the bond.

Throughout the meeting, council members expressed a desire for transparency and accountability regarding the management of the bond funds and the ongoing environmental concerns. The council ultimately agreed that the bond's passage would provide the necessary authority to address both the school completion and the toxic soil removal, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing public health and safety.

In conclusion, the Newport City Council's discussions underscored the critical need for effective remediation of the toxic soil while ensuring the timely completion of Rogers High School. The council's commitment to addressing these intertwined issues reflects a broader responsibility to the community and the environment. Further actions and decisions will be necessary as the bond proposal moves forward to the ballot in November.