Budget Commission Works to Pay Outstanding Debts

The budget commission is banking on state legislators' votes tonight.

According to Michael O'Keefe, chairman of the budget commission, a to advance the annual state aid payment could give East Providence about $12.7 million.

"It gives us breathing room until May," he said at Thursday's budget commission meeting, noting an immediate cash flow issue was his main concern. 

Members also discussed the possibility of creating further incentives to push residents to pay their tax bills months earlier than the deadline. Before the idea is brought before residents, members will assess the fiscal benefits.

"It may not be cost-effective," O'Keefe said.

Commission members must still calculate the amount needed to fund pension liability and delve into the school department's budget. 

Members approved a list of vouchers exceeding $25,000, a stipulation posed upon the city after the commission was appointed.

• RI Trust: $724,191
• Narraganset Bay Commission: $240,322 and $300,821
• Malcolm Pirnie Inc.: $26,765
• WM Enviro-Safe Disposal: $61,236 and $123,844
• Mellon Bank United Water: $4,465,005 and $364,289
• RIDOT: $155,250
• RI Water Resources Board: $87,421
• Providence Water Supply Board: $55,367
• National Grid: $26,717
• Suntrust Equipment and Leasing Corp: $33,646