The Westerly Town Council convened on October 28, 2024, to discuss the future of the Potter Hill Dam, a topic that has generated significant public interest and concern. The meeting featured a series of public comments from residents and stakeholders, emphasizing the need for careful consideration before any decisions are made regarding the dam's removal or modification.

The session began with a speaker highlighting the potential benefits of maintaining the dam, including improved flood resilience and fish passage. The speaker urged the council to explore multiple options rather than focusing solely on dam removal, stressing the importance of studying the impacts on local ecosystems, drinking water wells, and floodplain storage.

Nick Stall, president of the Westerly Land Trust, addressed the council, expressing the organization's commitment to stewardship of the land surrounding the Kwakatuk River. Stall emphasized the need for transparency and thorough review of data regarding the dam's impact on conservation properties before any decisions are made. He called for the council to delay any votes until all stakeholders have had the opportunity to assess the latest information.

Several residents echoed Stall's sentiments, advocating for the preservation of the dam and the wetlands it supports. They raised concerns about the potential negative effects on private wells and local wildlife, urging the council to complete all necessary studies before proceeding with any actions.

James Dexter, another resident, pointed out that previous studies funded by the town aimed to assess the impact on private wells, yet he noted a lack of outreach to residents regarding their specific concerns. He argued for the exploration of alternative solutions, such as fish ladders or bypass fishways, to improve fish passage without compromising the river's current level.

The meeting also featured comments from residents who opposed the dam's removal, reinforcing the idea that any decisions should be based on comprehensive research and community input. Some speakers criticized the notion that the dam could not mitigate flooding, suggesting that the contours of the land could be altered to better manage future floodwaters.

As the meeting concluded, the council faced a clear message from the community: any decision regarding the Potter Hill Dam must be made with careful consideration of all potential impacts and thorough public engagement. The council is expected to continue discussions on this critical issue in future meetings, with a focus on ensuring that all voices are heard and respected in the decision-making process.