Council Completes Housekeeping Items as Year Winds Down

After visiting the Parks and Recreation Department, and last week, Town Council President Gary P. Cote advised residents to do the same.

Cote's advice, inspired, he said, by the run-down condition of the facilities and equipment, licked off the Dec. 13 Town Council meeting. He applauded the workers from each department for "doing a lot with a little" and said changes are needed so municipal employees can continue doing their jobs safely and successfully.

"We've got some major problems that need to be addressed," said Cote.  "We need to be willing to work together and in partnership with these departments."

School Committee Members Recognized 

Former School Committee Members Andrew Perra and Lisa Tomasso were recognized for their dedicated service to Coventry and its public school system. Perra had served on the committee from  2006-2010 and Tomasso served from 2008-2010.

Confirmation of Appointments

The council unanimously appointed John Belanger as probate judge for a term that will run concurrent with the Town Council.

The council also appointed four new assistant town solicitors: Patrick J. Sullivan, Christopher Pucino, David Igliozzi and Arthur Reed.

Approval of Property Sale

Thomas and Marilyn Ricciotti, of 303-305 Pulaski St., received approval to purchase a 1,166 square-foot piece of land that abuts their property for $1,000. The land was originally going to be used as part of the but was later found to be unnecessary for such use. 

"The Ricciottis have always kept their property nice and they help with the cleanliness of the bikeway," said Town Solicitor Frederick Tobin. "This sale is a win for both the town as well as the property owners."

Regent Electric Awarded Renovation Contract

Regent Electric was awarded a contract to provide electrical renovations to a building the bought for $1. The building, located at 572-582 Washington St., will be used in partnership with Northern Rhode Island Mental Health as an Adolescent Stabilization Unit to help adolescents with significant mental health and substance abuse issues. 

Human Services Director Pat Shurtleff said the building needs very little renovation aside from a fire escape and the fire alarm system Regent will be installing. The project will cost the public $1,671.07.

Council Approves Budget Schedule

The ciouncil approved the schedule for the preparation and approval of the fiscal 2012 budget, with the understanding that more meetings between the council and School Committee have been added to the town calendar to prepare the budget as quickly as possible.

A copy of the budget process will be made available to the public as soon as possible.

License Renewals 

Renewal of Licenses for the following campgrounds were approved:

• Camp Ayoho on McManus Road.
• Colwells Campground at 119 Peckham Lane.
• Hickory Ridge Campground at 584 Victory Highway.

Public Hearings

The transfer of a Class B liquor license was approved pending a letter of approval for liveshow entertainment from Crompton Liquor Holdings. The license will be used at the Come Along Inn at 402 Washington St.

The council awarded a new Class B liquor license to John Assalone of Airport Road Development Inc. The license will be utilized at a full service restaurant at 1650 Nooseneck Hill Road, the former site of Half Moon.