Narragansett Council Faces Zoning Ordinance Concerns Amid Recall Discussions

The Narragansett Town Council meeting on September 2, 2025, focused on several pressing issues, including the future of the three-student ordinance, local rental data, and the establishment of an ad hoc committee to finalize the bike path project.

During the public comment section, residents expressed concerns about the potential abandonment of the three-student ordinance, which regulates the number of unrelated individuals living in rental properties. One resident emphasized the need for clarity on the legality of this ordinance and requested that the town solicitor provide an opinion at the upcoming planning session. The resident also called for transparency regarding the number of academic rentals in town and who owns them, highlighting the importance of understanding the impact of student housing on the community.

Another speaker criticized a council member for spreading misinformation about state law regarding rental occupancy limits, asserting that the council's interpretation was incorrect. This sparked a broader discussion about the council's handling of zoning laws and the perceived disconnect between council decisions and resident interests.

In addition to these discussions, the council addressed the need for improved infrastructure, particularly concerning wastewater treatment capacity, as the town experiences an influx of students and new residents. The importance of balancing development with existing infrastructure capabilities was underscored.

The meeting also included a proposal to create an ad hoc committee focused on completing the bike path. Council members discussed the necessity of involving residents directly affected by the bike path's route in the decision-making process. The committee aims to gather input from various stakeholders, including neighborhood associations and local organizations, to ensure that the final path aligns with community needs.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing tensions between residents and the council regarding rental regulations and development, as well as a commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration on community projects like the bike path. The council plans to revisit the formation of the ad hoc committee and the future of the three-student ordinance in upcoming sessions, aiming to address resident concerns while navigating the complexities of local governance.