Warren Town Council approves Gary Marshall as new finance director
June 11, 2025 | Warren, Bristol County, Rhode Island
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The Warren Town Council convened on June 10, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including the appointment of a new finance director and budget adjustments for various departments.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the acceptance of the resignation of Finance Director Dave Brown, who has served the town during challenging times. Council members expressed their gratitude for his dedication and hard work, particularly in navigating a complex financial landscape. In his place, Gary Marshall was unanimously recommended and appointed as the new finance director. Marshall brings 25 years of municipal experience, including 17 years with the Town of Bristol, and is expected to transition smoothly into his new role.
The council also discussed several budgetary matters, including over-expenditures in various departments. The town planner's GIS mapping software was reported to be over budget by $1,331, while the fire department faced a $5,500 shortfall for fuel. The police department's dispatch holiday pay was also over budget by $3,100. The council approved the necessary fund transfers to cover these expenses, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.
Additionally, the public works department reported an overtime budget overage of $13,483, which will be addressed through reallocations from other budget lines. The wastewater treatment plant operations were highlighted as being underfunded by $31,065, prompting discussions on how to manage these costs moving forward. The council assured residents that the increased sewer fees planned for the next fiscal year would help alleviate future budgetary pressures.
In a lighter moment, the town manager requested to be excused from the August council meeting due to a family wedding in London, which was met with understanding and light-hearted banter among council members.
The meeting concluded with a request from the recreation director for the renewal of free yoga sessions at Orange Elm Beach, further emphasizing the town's commitment to community wellness and engagement.
As the council navigates these financial challenges and transitions in leadership, residents can expect continued efforts to maintain transparency and support for essential services in Warren.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the acceptance of the resignation of Finance Director Dave Brown, who has served the town during challenging times. Council members expressed their gratitude for his dedication and hard work, particularly in navigating a complex financial landscape. In his place, Gary Marshall was unanimously recommended and appointed as the new finance director. Marshall brings 25 years of municipal experience, including 17 years with the Town of Bristol, and is expected to transition smoothly into his new role.
The council also discussed several budgetary matters, including over-expenditures in various departments. The town planner's GIS mapping software was reported to be over budget by $1,331, while the fire department faced a $5,500 shortfall for fuel. The police department's dispatch holiday pay was also over budget by $3,100. The council approved the necessary fund transfers to cover these expenses, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.
Additionally, the public works department reported an overtime budget overage of $13,483, which will be addressed through reallocations from other budget lines. The wastewater treatment plant operations were highlighted as being underfunded by $31,065, prompting discussions on how to manage these costs moving forward. The council assured residents that the increased sewer fees planned for the next fiscal year would help alleviate future budgetary pressures.
In a lighter moment, the town manager requested to be excused from the August council meeting due to a family wedding in London, which was met with understanding and light-hearted banter among council members.
The meeting concluded with a request from the recreation director for the renewal of free yoga sessions at Orange Elm Beach, further emphasizing the town's commitment to community wellness and engagement.
As the council navigates these financial challenges and transitions in leadership, residents can expect continued efforts to maintain transparency and support for essential services in Warren.
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