North Kingstown residents demand transparency on construction and tax relief measures

North Kingstown Town Council convened on January 13, 2025, addressing critical community concerns, particularly regarding the upcoming roundabout project and its potential impact on local businesses. Council members and residents expressed apprehension about the eight-week timeline for construction, emphasizing the need for assurances that the project would be completed on schedule. Business owners voiced concerns about revenue loss during this period and sought clarity on operational hours for construction work, urging collaboration with the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (DOT) to mitigate disruptions.

Richard Welch, a resident, highlighted the importance of community engagement, noting the significant turnout at the meeting. He called for updates on ongoing infrastructure issues, including the weight-limited bridge over Route 403 and the controversial Route 4 interchange proposal. The town manager responded, indicating that discussions with relevant stakeholders would take place to address these challenges.

Another pressing topic was the need for tax relief for seniors. A resident articulated the financial strain on older homeowners, particularly those without children in the school system, advocating for a tax break to help them remain in their homes. This sentiment resonated with many attendees, underscoring the broader issue of affordability for seniors in the community.

The meeting also touched on safety concerns related to the roundabout project. A local lawyer emphasized the necessity of prioritizing safety measures to prevent potential accidents, warning that the town could face legal repercussions if safety was compromised.

As the council moves forward, the discussions from this meeting reflect a community eager for transparency and proactive measures to ensure that infrastructure improvements do not adversely affect local businesses or residents. The next council meeting on January 27 is anticipated to provide further updates on these critical issues, particularly the roundabout project and its implications for the town.