Rhode Island 2024 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S2091

Introduced
1/12/24  
Refer
1/12/24  
Report Pass
1/30/24  
Engrossed
2/1/24  
Refer
2/2/24  
Report Pass
3/7/24  
Enrolled
3/14/24  

Caption

AUTHORIZING THE TOWN OF SOUTH KINGSTOWN TO ISSUE NOT TO EXCEED $150,000,000 GENERAL OBLIGATION BONDS AND NOTES TO FINANCE THE ACQUISITION, CONSTRUCTION, IMPROVEMENT, RENOVATION, FURNISHING AND EQUIPPING OF A NEW HIGH SCHOOL, ATHLETIC FACILITY, AND OTHER SCHOOL FACILITIES IN THE TOWN AND ALL EXPENSES INCIDENT THERETO, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, COSTS OF DESIGN, DEMOLITION, ATHLETIC FIELDS, LANDSCAPING AND PARKING AND ALL ATTENDANT EXPENSES, INCLUDING ENGINEERING, ARCHITECTURAL AND OTHER PROJECT-RELATED CONSULTING COSTS

Impact

Should S2091 be enacted, it would empower local governance in South Kingstown to secure substantial funding for educational facilities without necessitating additional approvals from higher governmental bodies. This bill effectively allows the town council to manage the financing process, which may lead to more efficient execution of school projects. The anticipated positive impact of this financing includes enhancing educational infrastructure and providing better resources for local students.

Summary

Bill S2091 seeks to authorize the town of South Kingstown to issue general obligation bonds and notes up to a maximum of $150,000,000. The funds raised through these bonds are intended to finance various construction and improvement projects, primarily focused on the building of a new high school, athletic facility, and additional school infrastructure. This includes related expenses such as design and consulting services, along with the costs associated with land preparation and landscaping.

Contention

While supporters may view this act as essential for improving educational facilities, there could be contention regarding how this financing impacts local taxes and budget allocations. For instance, the bill allows the town to levy taxes to ensure repayments on the bonds, which could raise concerns among residents about increased financial burdens. Additionally, the effectiveness and execution of the proposed projects may lead to discussions about accountability and transparency in how funds are managed and spent.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

CA AB2429

Insurance: time-limited demands.

CA AB1412

Common interest developments: notices: volunteer officers: liability.

CA AB587

Social media companies: terms of service.

HI SB2734

Relating To Registration Of Vehicles.

CA SB754

Common interest developments: board members: election by acclamation.

CA AB502

Common interest developments: election requirements.

CA SB1156

Groundwater sustainability agencies: conflicts of interest: financial interest disclosures.

NJ A2901

Increases interest rate paid on certain overdue refunds of tax overpayments.