The North Smithfield Town Council convened on December 16, 2024, to discuss various topics, with a significant focus on the need for a facilities manager to oversee the maintenance and management of town properties.

The meeting began with inquiries about whether the town currently employs a licensed facilities manager. It was noted that while the school department has such personnel, town hall does not appear to have anyone with the necessary certification. Council members expressed the need for a professional who could manage capital budgets and maintenance schedules for town buildings, indicating that the current staff, including those from the Department of Public Works (DPW), are not equipped for this level of property management.

Discussions highlighted the distinction between facilities management and general maintenance, with council members emphasizing the importance of a dedicated role to ensure long-term upkeep and planning for town properties. The potential for this position to be filled by either a town employee or a subcontractor was also explored, with suggestions that a shared position with the school department could be beneficial.

A critical point raised during the meeting was the town charter, which designates the director of public works as responsible for building maintenance. This led to questions about whether hiring a facilities manager would necessitate a change to the charter, indicating a need for further legal review and discussion.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of addressing the facilities management issue, with plans to investigate the necessary steps to move forward, including potential charter amendments and the exploration of hiring options. The council aims to ensure that town properties are maintained effectively and efficiently in the future.