Rhode Island House Bill H8236

Rhode Island 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 5/11/22
• Refer: 5/11/22
• Report Pass: 5/31/22
• Engrossed: 6/9/22
• Enrolled: 6/21/22
• Passed: 6/29/22

Caption

Authorizing The City Of Pawtucket To Provide For The Design, Construction, Reconstruction And Repair Of Streets, Sidewalks And Other Transportation Infrastructure Improvements Including, But Not Limited To, Drainage And Landscaping And Authorizing The Financing Thereof, Including The Issue Of Not More Than $1,200,000 Bonds, Notes And Other Evidences Of Indebtedness Therefor, To Fund The Capital Improvement Program For The Two Fiscal Years 2024 And 2025

Impact

The bill is set to make significant contributions to local infrastructure, aiming to improve connectivity and accessibility for the residents of Pawtucket. By authorizing the issuance of bonds, the city can address pressing infrastructure needs without immediate tax burdens on residents, as the costs will be deferred to future years. This can also stimulate local economic activity by creating jobs related to construction and improvements to public facilities.

Summary

House Bill H8236 authorizes the city of Pawtucket to finance the design, construction, reconstruction, and repair of various transportation infrastructure improvements. This includes the maintenance of streets, sidewalks, drainage systems, and landscaping projects. The city is permitted to issue up to $1,200,000 in general obligation bonds and other evidences of indebtedness to cover these costs for the fiscal years 2024 and 2025. This act emphasizes the importance of modernizing infrastructure to support community needs and enhance public spaces.

Contention

While the bill passed unanimously with 63 votes in favor and no opposition noted on June 9, 2022, public discussions around such financing measures often highlight concerns regarding long-term debt management and the potential impact on local taxation. Opponents may raise questions regarding the prioritization of funds and potential disparities in the needs of different communities across the city. Nonetheless, supporters argue that the benefits of enhanced infrastructure technology outweigh these concerns.