The North Smithfield Town Council convened on January 6, 2025, to discuss significant community initiatives, notably the participation in the Municipal Resiliency Program (MRP). This program, a collaboration between the Nature Conservancy and the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank, aims to assist towns in understanding and addressing risks associated with climate change, particularly flooding.

During the meeting, the Town Administrator outlined that joining the MRP would require no financial investment from the town, only an allocation of staff time to facilitate a public workshop. This workshop will gather community input on local climate-related issues, culminating in a report that will inform future planning and zoning decisions. The Administrator emphasized that North Smithfield is currently the only town in Rhode Island not participating in this program, which could open doors to significant grant opportunities for local projects.

Council members expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance the town's resilience against flooding and other climate impacts. The Administrator noted that the program would not impose any mandatory changes on the town's operations but would provide valuable insights and strategies for addressing local concerns.

A motion was made and unanimously approved by the council to participate in the MRP, allowing North Smithfield to move forward with the necessary resolution. The council's decision marks a proactive step towards improving the town's infrastructure and preparedness for climate-related challenges.