Rhode Island 2025 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0721

Introduced
3/7/25  
Refer
3/7/25  
Report Pass
6/5/25  
Engrossed
6/10/25  
Enrolled
6/17/25  

Caption

Repeals legislation establishing the Capital Center Commission, which is a special development district commission for downtown Providence.

Impact

The repeal of the Capital Center Commission has the potential to reshape how development within downtown Providence is managed. Currently, the commission has the authority to oversee planning and development activities, which allows for a targeted approach to urban revitalization. By dissolving this body, the associated powers and responsibilities may be transferred or eliminated, thus leading to a more decentralized and possibly disjointed approach to urban planning. This could create uncertainty for developers and investors within the district, which may impact economic growth in Providence.

Summary

Senate Bill 0721, also known as the act relating to the Capital Center Commission, proposes to repeal the legislation that established the Capital Center Commission, which was designated as a special development district commission for downtown Providence. This change is intended to streamline governance and potentially redirect resources or responsibilities towards other development initiatives in the area. The bill emphasizes the need for more effective governance structures as urban development evolves in response to changing economic conditions and priorities.

Contention

Controversy surrounding the bill largely hinges on concerns from various stakeholders, including local government officials, developers, and community activists. Proponents argue that the repeal will allow for more flexible and adaptive planning mechanisms that are better suited to respond to the dynamic urban environment of Providence. However, opponents express fears that dismantling the commission could lead to inadequate oversight of development projects and a lack of representation for community interests. The debate reflects broader issues regarding urban governance, local control, and community engagement in the development process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H7437

Reduces the number of commissioners on the board of commissioners to no less than fifteen and would add a d/b/a Serve RI designation after commissions name.

RI S2805

Reduces the number of commissioners on the board of commissioners to no less than fifteen and would add a d/b/a Serve RI designation after commissions name.

RI S3067

Exempts from taxation the real and tangible personal property of the Providence Preservation Society.

RI H7535

Exempts from taxation the real and tangible personal property of the Providence Preservation Society.

RI S2362

Exempts from taxation the real and tangible personal property of the Providence Preservation Society.

RI H7779

Directs the commissioner of postsecondary education to prepare a strategic plan for public higher education which is aligned with the goals of the board of education's strategic plan.

RI S2521

Directs the commissioner of postsecondary education to prepare a strategic plan for public higher education which is aligned with the goals of the board of education's strategic plan.

RI S3090

Exempts from taxation the non-commercial real and tangible personal property of Southside Community Land Trust, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in Providence, Rhode Island.

RI H8343

Exempts from taxation the non-commercial real and tangible personal property of Southside Community Land Trust, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in Providence, Rhode Island.

RI S2762

Exempts from taxation the real and tangible personal property of St. Elizabeth's Home, a Rhode Island domestic nonprofit corporation, located in East Greenwich, Warwick, and Providence, Rhode Island.

Similar Bills

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Drains: other; definition of per diem and compensation for drainage boards; modify. Amends secs. 72, 384, 441, 464 & 515 of 1956 PA 40 (MCL 280.72 et seq.).

RI H5306

Repeals legislation establishing the Capital Center Commission, which is a special development district commission for downtown Providence.

MI HB4382

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