Providence Committee on Finance-Wednesday, May 22, 2024-5:30 PM
Call to Order and Roll Call
Chair Helen Anthony called the Committee on Finance meeting to order and took the roll call. Present committee members, city staff, and guest councilors were formally recognized.
Item 1 - Tax Stabilization Agreement for 132 Westminster Street
The committee heard an update regarding a tax stabilization agreement for a vacant historic mixed-use property at 132 Westminster Street. Following a correction regarding comparative tax rates and testimony on the property's financial viability, the committee voted to approve the application.
Item 2 - Tax Stabilization Agreement
The applicant presented a request for a six-year tax stabilization agreement for a rehabilitation project containing twelve units, including four affordable units. After confirming policy allowances for a six-year duration, the committee voted to approve the motion.
Item 3 - Tentative Agreement with Fraternal Order of Police Lodge No. 3
City administration and police leadership presented the tentative labor agreement with Providence Lodge No. 3, highlighting competitive wages, modernized promotion testing, and a 16% pension contribution. After brief questions regarding municipal pension comparisons, the committee voted unanimously to approve the agreement.
School Construction Design-Build Contracts (Mount Pleasant, Messer, and Lima/Sturges)
The committee discussed proposed design-build awards for Mount Pleasant High School, Messer, and Lima/Sturges to secure a 91% state reimbursement deadline. Citing insufficient details, a rushed timeline, and the absence of school district officials, the committee voted to continue the matter to May 29.
Recreation Centers Floor Resurfacing Contract
Staff presented a retroactive contract approval for floor resurfacing across ten city recreation centers completed over the winter break. After councilors voiced significant concerns regarding substandard finish work at the West End Recreation Center and procedural delays, the committee voted to continue the item indefinitely.
RAISE Grant Design Contract for Providence Riverwalk Improvements
Department officials presented a design contract leveraging federal RAISE grant funds and Fish and Wildlife support to upgrade Providence Riverwalk infrastructure, wall stabilization, and accessibility. The committee voted to approve the contract award.
Downtown Improvement District Expansion Ordinance
The committee considered a substitute ordinance expanding the Downtown Improvement District into the Capital Center area and adding City Council representation to the board. Following discussion on budget realities, service boundaries, and pending state legislative amendments, the committee voted to approve the substitute ordinance.