Tax Amnesty Resolution Approved; Parks and Recreation Department Honored

On Monday evening, the Council approved a resolution to request that the General Assembly introduce and support legislation allowing the establishment of a Tax Amnesty program in Coventry. If passed, the program would allow taxpayers a 45-day period to pay taxes owed to the town without penalty during fiscal 2013.

"I suggested this to help the taxpayers out during the hard times they are falling on," said Councilman Ted Jendzejec who called for the program. "This will do a world of good for the taxpayers that are hurting and trying to make ends meet as well as the town by sparing the expense of a tax sale or attorney's fees to collect the debt."

"To me it is a success if we can help even one taxpayer," Jendzejec went on to say.

Parks & Recreation Department Recognition

The Council recognized the for by the Rhode Island Recreation and Park Association.

"I know that you are very fortunate to have a good crew over there," said Council President Gary Cote to Parks and Recreation Director Guy Lefebvre. "I appreciate what you all do and the department is money well spent as far as I'm concerned. Congratulations."

Girls Basketball Champions 

Members of the girls basketball team were honored for winning this year's state championship.

The Lady Falcons to take home the title.

Narrowband Contract

A contract was authorized with Cybercom Inc. for the narrowbanding (switching 25 kHz radio systems to narrowband 12.5 kHz) of all fixed equipment within the . Police Chief Bryan Volpe explained that the work will be performed on the department's backup VHF system in order to be in compliance with the Federal Communications Commission by Jan. 1, 2013.

After research done by department employees, the estimated cost, originally thought to be around $40,000 has been significantly decreased to around $5,700 that will come from the department's capital budget.

"We did find that some of the equipment had been purchased many years back and because of that we were able to make modifications to our plan," said Volpe. "This is an important update because we've had to use the system several times in the past year."

Liquor Control Board Public Hearing

After appearing in front of the Council several times over the past three months, the Chatermike Restaurant Corporation, 446 Tiogue Ave. () has been shut down as of Mar. 13, until the business comes into compliance regarding state and town taxes as well as proper licensing.

The next Town Council meeting will be held on Mar. 26 at 7 p.m..