Providence City Council Meeting | Committee on Ordinances | May 13th 2026

Chairman Pedro Espinal calls the Committee on Ordinances meeting to order and welcomes the attendees. The clerk calls the roll, confirming the presence of five committee members and establishing a quorum.

The committee introduces an ordinance amending Chapter 18.5 of the Code of Ordinances regarding the Providence External Review Authority (PERA). Policy Director Aaron Eastergarner presents the major proposed changes, and committee members discuss potential amendments regarding board term limits.

Major Henry Remolina of the Providence Police Department presents testimony expressing concerns about specific sections of the proposed PERA ordinance. He answers questions from committee members regarding parallel investigations and access to police records.

Members of the public, including community advocates, former PERA board members, and the current executive director, testify in support of the proposed amendments. Speakers emphasize the need for independent oversight, transparency, and accountability for police conduct.

Chairman Espinal calls for a brief recess to allow committee members a short break. The meeting resumes after approximately thirteen minutes to continue the agenda.

The committee discusses whether to vote on the PERA ordinance immediately or delay the vote to a future date. Ultimately, the committee votes to approve the ordinance and send it to the full city council.

With no further business on the agenda for the first meeting, a motion to adjourn is made and seconded. The committee votes unanimously to adjourn the meeting before transitioning to the second scheduled meeting.

Chairman Espinal calls the second committee meeting of the evening to order. The clerk conducts a roll call, confirming that all five committee members are present to establish a quorum.

The committee introduces an ordinance amending Chapter 27 of the Code of Ordinances regarding the city's zoning regulations for entertainment. Robert Azar from the Planning Department presents the proposed changes, which clarify definitions and licensing requirements for different levels of entertainment.

Members of the public present testimony regarding the proposed changes to the entertainment zoning ordinance. Speakers express concerns about enforcement issues, quality of life in neighborhoods, and the lack of community engagement in the process.