Rhode Island House Bill H8237

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 Planning, Evaluation, Design, Construction, Equipping And Reconstruction Of The Sanitary Sewers And Storm Sewers In The City And Authorizing The Financing Thereof, Including The Issue Of Not More Than $1,000,000 Bonds, Notes And Other Evidences Of Indebtedness Therefor, To Fund The Capital Improvement Program For The Two Fiscal Years 2024 And 2025

Impact

The passage of this bill is expected to have significant implications for local government operations in Pawtucket. If approved, the funds acquired through the bonds will be utilized specifically for enhancing the sewage and sanitation systems, providing much-needed improvements and facilitating better management of stormwater. This endeavor aligns with broader city plans focused on modernizing public infrastructure and supporting sustainable urban development.

Summary

House Bill H8237 authorizes the city of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, to issue up to $1,000,000 in bonds, notes, and other forms of indebtedness to finance a comprehensive sewer and sanitation system project. The bill aims to facilitate the planning, evaluation, design, construction, equipping, and reconstruction of sanitary and storm sewers in the city. The capital improvement program is set for the fiscal years 2024 and 2025, with the intention of bolstering the city's sewer infrastructure and addressing any existing deficiencies.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support for its intended improvements and necessary infrastructural upgrades, there may be concerns among local stakeholders regarding the financial implications of incurring additional debt. Community members could express apprehensions about the eventual impact on property taxes due to the ad valorem taxation that may be required to cover the bond repayments, particularly if expected increases in operational costs arise from the bond issuance. However, the city council is empowered to manage these aspects through careful financial planning and execution.