Narragansett honors fallen officers during National Police Week 2025 proclamation

The Narragansett Town Council convened on May 5, 2025, to address several important issues, including a proclamation for National Police Week and updates on local programs and concerns raised by residents.

The meeting began with a proclamation recognizing National Police Week from May 11 to May 17, 2025. This observance honors law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, including Officer Joseph W. Westlake from the Narragansett Police Department. The proclamation highlighted the sacrifices made by over 800,000 law enforcement officers across the United States and noted that 345 new names of fallen officers will be added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial this spring. The council expressed gratitude for the service of local police officers and encouraged the community to participate in the observance.

Following the proclamation, Town Manager Jim provided updates on various initiatives. Notably, the mobile integrated health program, operated through the fire department and EMS, received an additional $52,000 in funding from the Rhode Island Department of Health, extending the program until September 29, 2025. Additionally, negotiations with the police union, NAIJ IBPO, have commenced, and Captain Kevin McHenry of the Narragansett Fire Department was recognized for receiving the Excellence in Mobile Integrated Health Community Paramedicine Award.

During the open forum segment, resident Melissa Jenkins raised urgent concerns regarding the Bonnet Shores Fire District, which she described as operating with little oversight and potentially violating residents' rights. Jenkins urged the council to take action against what she termed a "corrupt" governance structure that allows for taxation and law-making without adequate accountability. She called for the council to advocate for legislative changes to ensure that only Narragansett residents can vote in subordinate districts and to provide oversight of the fire district's operations.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve the minutes from the previous meeting, which passed unanimously. The discussions highlighted the council's commitment to honoring law enforcement and addressing community concerns, particularly regarding governance and accountability within local districts. As the council moves forward, the implications of Jenkins' concerns may prompt further examination of the Bonnet Shores Fire District's operations and its impact on Narragansett residents.