Annual Report 2013-2014

Proud Heritage, Bright Future Established 1638 Portsmouth, Rhode island

Contacts Planning Board

Table of (401) 683-3717 Town of Portsmouth Leon Lesinski 2200 East Main Road [email protected] Portsmouth, RI 02871 General number: (401) 643-0499 Contents Police

(401) 683-0300 email: [email protected] Page Thomas Lee

[email protected] 3 Town Council Report www.portsmouthri.com 4 Elected Officials Probate Court 6 Town Administrator (401) 683-2101 Town Departments: Joanne Mower 7 School Committee [email protected] 10 Police Department Building Official (401) 683-3611 Prudence Island Volunteer Fire 12 Fire Department George Medeiros (401) 683-1100 14 Department of Public Works [email protected] Robert Marshall [email protected] 16 Town Clerk’s Report 18 Finance & Personnel Director of Business Development Registrar of Voters 2 (401) 643-0382 (401) 683-3157 20 Canvassing Authority William Clark Jacqueline Schulz 22 Tax Assessor/Collector Office [email protected] [email protected] 23 Tax Assessment Board of Review Emergency Management School Administration (401) 683-1200 (401) 683-1039 24 Planning Department John King Barbara McGann 26 Planning Board [email protected] [email protected]

28 Inspection Department Finance/Personnel/Welfare Tax Assessor 28 Zoning Board of Review (401) 683-9118 (401) 683-1536 James Lathrop Matthew Helfand 29 Housing Authority [email protected] [email protected] 30 Conservation Commission Fire Tax Collector 30 Redevelopment Agency (401) 683-1200 (401) 683-1214 31 Tree Commission Michael Cranson Matthew Helfand [email protected] [email protected] 32 Open Space Committee 32 Dog Park Planning Committee Highway/Public Works Town Administrator (401) 683-0362 33 Melville Park Committee (401) 683-3255 David Kehew John Klimm 34 Lower Glen Farm Preservation [email protected] [email protected] Committee 34 Glen Park Working Committee Planner Town Clerk (401) 643-0332 (401) 683-2101 35 Glen Manor House Authority Gary Crosby Joanne Mower 36 Solid Waste/Recycling [email protected] [email protected] Committee 36 Bristol Ferry Town Common Committee Thank you 37 Harbor Commission Photography: Michael Cranson, Conner Davis, Andrew Kelly, Barbara Ripa, 37 Mooring Assignment Appeals Thomas Roskelly, E. Doug Smith Committee 38 Portsmouth Emergency Credits Management Agency Designed by: Roskelly.com 375th Logo design by Thomas Roskelly 40 Portsmouth Prevention Coalition 40 Portsmouth 375 Committee 43 Future Planned Initiatives for 2015 All materials, text, graphics, content, the selection and arrangement thereof, © 2014 Town of Portsmouth ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Any use of materials on this publication—including reproduction, modification, distribution, or republication—without the prior written permission is strictly prohibited.

2 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Portsmouth, Rhode island Town Council Report

Town Council, left to right: Keith E. Hamilton, Molly Donohue Magee, John F. Blaess, James A. Seveney, Michael A. Buddemeyer, Elizabeth A. Pedro, David M. Gleason

Dear Portsmouth Residents:

It is an honor to submit to you our Portsmouth We have been working steadily to improve town Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2014. It was a year infrastructure through execution of our Capital 3 of sacrifice and success for our town. There are many Improvement Plan, but also through “pay-as-you-go” folks who deserve our appreciation for their hard budgeting for road improvements, and the School work, dedication, and willingness to contribute to the Department T3 (Turf-Track-Tennis) upgrade. These future of our community. Some of those contributions projects have been very successful, minimizing use of came with considerable cost. The key successes I’d like debt, and establishing innovative partnerships with to note for this year’s report include the elimination other members of the community, such as Roger of tolls on the Sakonnet Bridge; pension reform for Williams University, to share costs for the T3 project. most of our Town employees; completion of a major facilities renovation at Portsmouth High School, the We can all be proud of the Triple-A bond rating “T3” project; and an overall improved financial recently received recognizing the strides we’ve made. condition, leading to the “Triple-A” bond rating There is no higher credit rating for a municipality, and we received from Standard & Poor’s. it is already saving the Town money with significantly reduced interest rates on our debt. Thanks go to our Elimination of the bridge toll cannot be overstated. Town Administrator and Finance Director for leading The economic and social threat was real, and so was the effort to engage the municipal rating agencies the fundamental power of a community standing with a comprehensive review leading to the Triple-A together to push back. Our coalition of grass roots determination. Portsmouth is now one of only two groups like “STOP,” our business leaders, and our communities in the State to receive this rating. local and state political representation all contributed to a better, more balanced solution to a state-wide Once again, I close with a grateful and proud transportation problem. acknowledgment of the dedication and hard work of our Town employees, teachers, volunteers and Our long term financial condition has improved leadership for their commitment to our community. significantly. Much work has gone into the planning I thank every member of our Town Council and and execution of programs making this happen with School Committee for their countless hours of pension reform perhaps the most important, and service to our community. difficult. We must acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifices our Town employees have made. It is I hope all our citizens will read this report, embrace only with their help and understanding that we’ve a sense of accomplishment, and be confident in the restructured our pension plans and helped stabilize future of our wonderful community. our financial future as a community. Sincerely, Jim Seveney

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 3 MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY SCHOOL COMMITTEE: TOWN OF PORTSMOUTH David D. Croston (D) Chair 401-683-6238 (h) SENATE DISTRICT #11 118 Sweet Farm Road Christopher S. Ottiano 401-682-2831 (h) Elected: 11/2010 Term Expires: 11/2014 10 Kaitlin Place 401-864-0516 (w) Portsmouth, RI 02871 www.rilin.state.ri.us/senators/Ottiano/ Terri-Denise Cortvriend (D) Vice-Chair 401-683-3408 (h) 46 Mary Lane Elected: 11/2012 Term Expires: 11/2016 REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT #69 Raymond E. Gallison, Jr. 401-253-1852 (h) 50 King Philip Avenue 508-677-4235 (w) Emily A. Copeland (D) 401-683-2086 (h) Bristol, RI 02809 25 Windstone Drive www.rilin.state.ri.us/representatives/Gallison/ Elected: 11/2012 Term Expires: 11/2016

REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT #70 Andrew V. Kelly (D) 401-683-7522 (h) John G. Edwards 401-624-8879 (h) 33 Pine Street 69 South Avenue 401-662-6280 (w) Elected: 11/2012 Term Expires: 11/2016 Tiverton, RI 02878 www.rilin.state.ri.us/representatives/Edwards/

Thomas R. Vadney (R) 401-683-3967 (h) 5 Brant Road REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT #71 Elected: 11/2010 Term Expires: 11/2014 Dennis M. Canario 401-683-4926 (h) 4 64 Birchwood Drive Portsmouth, RI 02871 John Wojichowski (D) 401-293-5690 (h) www.rilin.state.ri.us/representatives/Canario/ 8 Eyler Drive Elected: 11/2012 Term Expires: 11/2014

REPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT #72 Linda Dill Finn 401-258-6851 (h) *Frederick Faerber, III (D) 401-293-0611 (h) 351 Compton View Drive 271 Sprague St., #1 Middletown, RI 02842 Appointed: 01/2013 Term Expires: 11/2014 www.rilin.state.ri.us/representatives/Finn/ Filled Unexpired Term of Jonathan Harris

ELECTED OFFICIALS TOWN OF PORTSMOUTH

TOWN CLERK:

Joanne M. Mower (R) 401-683-2101 (w) 100 Belmont Drive

TOWN COUNCIL:

James A. Seveney (D) President 401-683-3046 (h) 72 Macomber Lane

John F. Blaess (D) Vice-President 401-846-6799 (h) 156 Taylor Road

Michael A. Buddemeyer (D) 401-683-5948 (h) 73 Potomac Road

David M. Gleason (I) 401-683-9653 (h) 63 Massasoit Avenue

Keith E. Hamilton (R) 401-683-5574 (h) 134 Soares Drive

Mary Donohue Magee (D) 401-847-1339 (h) 581 Wapping Road

Elizabeth A. Pedro (R) 401-683-3539 (h) 15 Pearl Street

TOWN SERGEANT: Philip Driscoll 401-683-2086 (h) 169 Immokolee Drive

4 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES SENATE AND CONGRESS GENERAL OFFICERS STATE OF RHODE ISLAND DELEGATION STATE OF RHODE ISLAND

NOVEMBER, 2012 Office of the Governor His Excellency, Lincoln D. Chafee Hon. Sheldon Whitehouse, US Senator State House, Room 224 TEL. 401-222-2080 http://www.whitehouse.senate.gov 82 Smith Street FAX 401-222-8096 Hart Senate Office Building 170 Westminster Street Providence, RI 02903 TTY: 711 Room 530 Suite 1100 http://www.governor.ri.gov Washington, DC 20510 Providence, RI 02903 TEL. (202) 224-2921 TEL. 401-453-5294 FAX (202) 228-2853 FAX 401-453-5085 Office of the Lieutenant Governor TTY: (202) 224-7746 TTY: 711 Honorable Elizabeth H. Roberts TEL. 401-222-2371 State House, Room 116 FAX 401-222-2012 82 Smith Street TTY: 711 Hon. John F. Reed, US Senator Providence, RI 02903 http://www.reed.senate.gov http://www.ltgov.ri.gov Hart Senate Office Building 1000 Chapel View Blvd. Room 728 Suite 290 Department of State Washington, DC 20510 Cranston, RI 02920 TEL. (202) 224-4642 TEL. 401-943-3100 Secretary of State FAX (202) 224-4680 FAX 401-464-6837 Honorable A. Ralph Mollis TEL. 401-222-2357 TTY: 800-745-5555 TTY: 800-284-4200 State House, Room 217 FAX 401-222-1356 82 Smith Street TTY: 711 Providence, RI 02903 Toll Free in Rhode Island U. S. Federal Courthouse http://www.sos.ri.gov One Exchange Terrace, Suite 408 5 Providence, RI 02903-1173 TEL. 401-528-5200 FAX 401-528-5242 Department of Attorney General TTY: Toll Free in Rhode Island (800) 745-5555 Honorable Peter F. Kilmartin TEL. 401-274-4400 150 South Main Street FAX 401-222-2725 Providence, RI 02903 TTY: 711 Hon. David N. Cicilline, US Representative First District http://www.riag.ri.gov http://cicilline.house.gov/ 128 Cannon House Office Building 1070 Main St., Suite 300 Washington, DC 20515 Pawtucket, RI 02860 Office of the Rhode Island General Treasurer TEL. (202) 225-4911 TEL. 401-729-5600 Honorable Gina M. Raimondo TEL. 401-222-2397 FAX (202) 225-3290 FAX 401-729-5608 State House, Room 102 FAX 222-6140 TTY: 711 TTY: 711 82 Smith Street TTY: 711 Providence, RI 02903 http://www.treasury.ri.gov Hon. James R. Langevin, US Representative Second District http://langevin.house.gov 109 Cannon House Office Building 300 Centerville Road Respectfully Submitted, Suite 200 Jacqueline S. Schulz Washington, DC 20515 Warwick, RI 02886 Registrar of Voters TEL. (202) 225-2735 TEL. 401-732-9400 FAX (202) 225-5976 FAX 401-737-2982 TTY: 711 TTY: 738-6137

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 5 hundreds of community events all year long. We have included numerous pictures from some of the various 375th events in this report.

We witnessed a number of significant accomplishments in Fiscal Year 2014. Thanks to our Town Council, we established a Septic System 6 Loan Program to provide needed financial assistance to our citizens facing major costs in repairing/replac- ing their septic system; we formed a collaborative partnership with our neighboring town of Middletown John C. Klimm setting in place consolidated I.T. services for our Town departments; with the help of Councilor Molly Magee, we redesigned and improved both the budgetary process and the quality of our budgetary documents; Town Administrator our Police Department began our citizens Police Academy as part of a civic engagement model that has led to the completion of over 100 weekly television It is an honor and pleasure to prepare and submit programs; and thanks to our DPW Department, we the second annual Portsmouth Town Report for your have demolished the Elmhurst School and are review. At the request of our Town Council, we have preparing the area for a public park. completed this report to memorialize our activities during Fiscal Year 2014 (July 1, Finally, and most importantly, we could 2013- June 30, 2014). not even begin to address our community’s needs if it were not for Fiscal Year 2014 was a year of great an incredible group of talented and challenge and success. Since the committed Town employees and fiscal year covers the last half of cal- hundreds of citizen volunteers who endar year 2013, we include in do so much for our community. this report the second half of our My thanks to all for improving the 375th Anniversary Celebration. quality of life in Portsmouth! And what a year it was! Regards, We were blessed with a 375th Volunteer John Klimm Steering Committee made up of an incredible group of citizens who gave their all to make sure that our 375th year was one that we will remember for many years to come. Under the able leadership of Committee Chair Esmond “Doug” Smith, the committee worked tirelessly to produce and coordinate

6 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future School Committee

To engage all students in rigorous learning Left to right:Emily A. Copeland, Frederick Faerber, III, Thomas R. Vadney, David D. Croston, opportunities supported by a high quality and Terri-Denise Cortvriend, John Wojichowski, Andrew V. Kelly challenging curriculum and superior teaching to prepare them to thrive in an ever changing world. We celebrate the accomplishments of our 2,680 students from kindergarten Activity During the Year: through high school. The Portsmouth Schools had a strong 2014 academi- cally. We celebrate the accomplishments of our 2,680 7 students from kindergarten through high school. in its communication with the Town Council. They excelled at every level of the classroom and won The Schools Department has been and is seriously honors in composition, math, computer coding, paint- impacted by the new Rhode Island Education ing, photography, 2D & 3D design, and music. Our Aid Formula which cuts approximately $240,000 athletes excelled on the fields, courts, water and ice. annually from State Aid; and cuts in ten years over Our extracurricular studies continue to broaden our $2.4 million in State Aid to Portsmouth. That cut is children’s experience from the marching band to the one of the biggest annual impacts to budgets across mock trial team. We honor and celebrate our student’s Town. The School Committee and Town Council held accomplishments and the pride they give us as a town. numerous financial workshops throughout the year. While we celebrated our town’s 375th anniversary of We look forward to continued cooperation with the the signing of the Compact, Portsmouth High School Town Council in proactively addressing our long-term celebrated its 50th year. In June, we graduated the financial forecast. largest class in our 50 years, awarding diplomas to In fiscal 2014, the School Committee negotiated 260 seniors. contracts with NEA - National Education Association The Portsmouth School Department ends Fiscal 2014 and our District administrators. in a strong financial position and many active capital The School Committee’s Strategic Planning Sub- projects. After completing fire code upgrades at Committee, in cooperation with the broader district Melville School in the summer of 2013, we are leadership team, finalized the core goals and objectives presently finishing fire code upgrades at Howard for the 2014-2019 Portsmouth School District. The Hathaway Elementary School. This brings all our School Committee formally approved this work last schools into compliance with the fire code changes. spring. A copy of the Strategic Plan is available on We broke ground in April on facility improvements to the School District’s website. the tennis, track and field at Portsmouth High School; these improvements will be ready for the start of the In technology integration this year we saw three new school year. The Portsmouth High School also significant steps forward: the introduction of Bring received a $100,000 grant to improve the library, Your Own Device (BYOD) at the high school; complete which should be complete in September. wireless coverage throughout the schools; and infrastructure improvement that allows students to take The School Committee has made long-term PARCC exam online as designed (many other school forecasting, a five year financial plan, a cornerstone departments will be deploying the paper version).

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 7 School Committee continued

Finally, the School Committee ended its year From Portsmouth Middle School announcing the hiring of Ana C. Riley as its next • Mr. Escher is the Rhode Island State finalist for the 2013 Superintendent. We thank Barbara McGann who Presidential Awards for Excellence Mathematics and filled-in as our acting Superintendent throughout Science Teaching. The Presidential Awards for Excellence FY 2014. Ana Riley is an experienced Superintendent in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) are the having served in a similar position in Dartmouth, highest honors bestowed by the United States government Massachusetts. She, also, is a past Assistant specifically for K-12 mathematics and science (including Superintendent, Principal, Assistant Principal, and computer science) teaching. Established by Congress in Science Teacher. The School Committee is excited 1983, the PAEMST program authorizes the President to to have her leadership and experience as we position bestow up to 108 awards each year. our schools to the future of excellence. • Lisa Pita-7th grade teacher/house leader was named Portsmouth’s District teacher of the year. Mrs. Pita also serves on the Middle School Leadership Team and is a valued From Portsmouth High School: member of several PLC’s including her own as the Science 8 In a wonderful outpouring of appreciation a group of Curriculum Coordinator for the school, encompassing alumni wanted to show their appreciation for our dear Grades 4-8. She allowed our PLC’s to grow and flourish friend, Col. Ed Fitzgerald, who passed away this past through a continuum of change. Lisa has been instrumental year. Mr. Fitz touched every student to pass through in the adoption of the NGSS and in championing a more our doors for two decades, serving as a substitute interactive experience for our science students across all teacher and constant presence at PHS functions. grade levels. Mrs. Pita’s progressive approach is also He will be missed by all. evident in her practice on a daily basis as she is continually implementing and exploring new strategies to engage and empower students in the exploration of science. As ISP, Lisa has created a culture of understanding and competence associated with the evaluation system. She richly deserved the honor of being selected the District Teacher of the Year.

• PMS was named a Feinstein School by Mr. Feinstein. Due to our exceptional community service projects through our student councils by conducting several food drives and delivering food items to community food banks and non-profit organizations we were invited to apply for this grant. He awarded our school with $10,000 and a Feinstein plaque to place on our building.

8 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future From Howard Hathaway Elementary: • Kindergarten Shadow Program: Hathaway hosted our first annual Kindergarten Shadow Program this year. The event provided incoming K parents with the opportunity to tour the building, meet staff, visit classrooms in session, and attend a question and answer session. Feedback from the event was positive!

• Reading Week: An annual event at Hathaway School – Students and teachers participated in the following activities: read my shirt, poem in my pocket, From Melville Elementary: storybook character day, and a reading café. • Awarded a $5,000 grant from Mr. Feinstein for being a Feinstein Leadership School. • Our Unified Arts teachers organized an incredible Arts for Life Day, an annual event in our Hathaway community. • Collected 4,000 non-perishable food items at a fall and This year’s theme was “Experiencing Health and Wellness spring food drive. Awarded a $4,000 grant for participa- 9 through the Arts.” tion in these drives.

• Our Kindergarten community celebrated the Week of the • In the fall of 2013, Principal Elizabeth Viveiros was selected Young Child this year. We invited family members to come as a finalist and placed as runner-up for the RIASP Outstand- into our classrooms and share in our learning. Students ing First Year Principal Award. received a bag of goodies from businesses around the community, including a free cheese pizza from our very own • Melville was recognized by the United States Department West Main Pizza and People’s Credit Union gave a prize of Agriculture as a Healthier US School, Bronze Level, for each student. The week ended with a parade around for leadership in implementing a healthier school nutrition our neighborhood led by high school students and their environment. instruments. • Melville students designed “Squirt the Whale” out of their • Project CHICK: First graders spent time learning about the handprints, as part of the 9th Annual Illuminated Garden life cycle of a chick! Students tenderly cared for and nur- Display at Friends of Ballard Park. tured eggs that eventually hatched into real live critters. The • Melville held a dedication ceremony for the dedication of unit ended with a delivery of the little ones to Casey Farm. the Melville School Library in memory of Donna Combra, • Hathaway School has continued our tradition of celebrating a beloved teacher who lost her very short battle against students with monthly Terrific Kids Awards. Students who cancer. have displayed excellent character, shown improvement, • Melville students raised $11,400 for the Jump Rope for or the like, were recipients of the award. Along with Heart fundraiser. a certificate each student received a pencil, sticker, and a coupon. • Melville students and staff raised $2,852.91 during the Pennies for Patients fundraiser. • Behavioral Expectation Program: Hathaway students are: Respectful, Responsible, Safe, and Ready to Learn! Any • A first grade student at Melville won the “Get Active” poster student who exhibits these behaviors gets a chance to contest sponsored by the American Heart Association. receive a golden apple. Golden apples are sent home to share with parents and students are put in a weekly • On June 13th, Melville held its 1st annual 5K Road Race. drawing for a certificate, pencil, sticker, and the wearing of the golden apple lanyard. We even handed out golden apple classroom awards monthly!

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 9 Police Department

In case of an emergency dial 911

The Portsmouth Police Department is currently staffed with 30 sworn officers, down 3 positions from last year, and includes one Prudence Island Public Safety Officer, one Animal Control Officer, one Records Clerk, and the Harbormaster.

Employee/Volunteer Awards or Citations: 10 In May, the Department held the first annual awards ceremony at the Glen Manor House. Lieutenant Anthony Cambrola was awarded the Distinguished Service Award for his arrest of a suspect in a murder that occurred on a RIPTA Bus. Sergeant Scott Tra- vers and Patrolman James Francis were awarded the Distinguished Service Award for their apprehension of a sexual assault suspect. Officers Maddie Pirri, Scott first class of citizens graduated in April, and we were Sullivan, Lee Trott, Det. Mark Mooney and Det. Sgt. very impressed with their dedication and they in turn Mike Arnold also received awards. learned a lot about policing. In addition to working on Mission Statement: rebuilding the Department’s webpage, the Department The mission of the Portsmouth Police Department is to also launched a Facebook page in order to utilize social prevent crime, protect life and property and improve media to improve our public outreach. the quality of life in Portsmouth by working in partner- The Department formally began the process of seeking ship with the community. statewide accreditation. An accreditation manager Activity During the Year: was appointed and all Department The Department handled 28,267 total calls for service processes and last year representing a significant increase in calls policies are being over previous years. The Department continues to be updated and re- a leader in traffic enforcement with 6,694 traffic stops viewed to ensure conducted. The Portsmouth Police Department also compliance with made 346 arrests during the year. Portsmouth Police state and nation- Detectives conducted several high profile narcotic al standards. investigations seizing heroin, firearms and other controlled substances. The Department also designated a specially trained detective as a computer crime investigator.

The Department began to rebuild the community policing program. A major part of this effort was the re-establishment of the citizen’s police academy. The

10 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Traffic Data: July 2013 - June 2014

Total Traffic Stops 6,694 Citations Issued 2,557 Warnings Issued 4,263 Notice and Demand 263 M/V Accident Reports 594

Crime Report Data: July 2013 - June 2014 Total Offenses

Homicide 0 Kidnapping/Abduction 1 Forcible Rape 3 Forcible Sodomy 1 11 Fondling 1 Robbery 0 Aggravated Assault 9 Simple Assault 93 Intimidation 6 Arson 0 Extortion/Blackmail 0 911 Burglary/Breaking and Entering 47 Shoplifting 5 Larceny from Building 26 Larceny from Motor Vehicle 45 Larceny Motor Vehicle Parts 4 Larceny, All Other 62 Motor Vehicle Theft 4 Counterfeiting/Forgery 6 Fraud, False Pretenses 12 Fraud, Credit Card/ATM 11 Embezzlement 0 Stolen Property Offenses 6 Vandalism 106 Drug Narcotic Violation 119 Statutory Rape, Non Force 1 Pornography, Obscene Material 1 Gambling 0 Prostitution 0 Bribery 0 Weapons Law Violations 15 Bad Checks 32 Disorderly Conduct 75 Driving Under the Influence 138 Family Offenses, Non Violent 55 Liquor Law Violations 25 Runaways 32 Trespass 24 All other Offenses 360 Traffic, Town By-Law Offenses 1,423

TOTAL OFFENSES: 2,748

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 11 Fire Department

In case of an emergency dial 911

The Portsmouth Fire department employs 2 chief officers, 32 firefighters (line officers), and 5 civilian dispatchers. The department is led by Fire Chief Michael Cranson and Deputy Fire Chief Michael O’Brien. The department is broken down into 4 shifts, each shift led by a captain with 12 2 lieutenants and 5 firefighters. The Town of Portsmouth achieved the

Heartsafe Community status through the Rhode Left: Deputy Chief Michael O’Brien Right: Chief Michael Cranson Island Department of Health (HEALTH) and the American Heart Association (AHA). Portsmouth is the Activity During the Year: first municipality on Aquidneck Island and Newport During FY 13-14 the Portsmouth Fire Department County to achieve this status. In addition, Portsmouth responded to over 2,900 emergency calls. These calls is one of only eight communities in Rhode Island to included nearly 2,000 emergency medical calls, 400 achieve this goal. The effort to achieve this status was automatic alarms, 160 motor vehicle accidents, nearly led by Lt. Dominic Lautieri. Lt. Lautieri received a 100 marine calls, less than 5 major fires, and several commendation for his efforts by the Town Council. calls for hazardous conditions. In addition, the department responded to Prudence Island for Mission Statement: emergency medical services more than 20 times. The mission of the Portsmouth Fire Department is to provide optimum protection from fire loss, and deliver Four new firefighters were hired, bringing the prompt, professional service during medical emergen- department up to full staffing. These firefighters cies. Our goal is to prevent the loss of life and property were trained “in house” by certified instructors and by using an enthusiastic approach to fire prevention. the new recruits attained national certifications through When fires do occur, our efforts are focused on con- the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). tainment and extinguishment, minimizing loss. Our In July of 2013, department is divided into two groups: line personnel the Town and are first responders to all emergency calls while staff the Portsmouth personnel, which includes the Chief and Deputy Chief, Firefighter’s conduct all administrative functions such as super- Union signed a vising prevention activities, training and emergency new three year operations, personnel management, and conducting all collective bargain- fire investigations. ing agreement implementing pension reform. The Portsmouth

12 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Fire Department received an award for the Assistance We increased public fire education in the Town of to Firefighters Grant for nearly $80,000 to purchase Portsmouth. Presentations were given at every school, 4,000 feet of new fire hose and a new air compressor four large apartment buildings and local businesses. for filling the Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus cylinders. The department applied for another The department updated the Town of Portsmouth’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant to replace aging Medical Emergency Distribution System (MEDS) Plan Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus, a cost of nearly in conjunction with the Rhode Island Department of $300,000. This department is currently awaiting a Health to respond to the need for mass antibiotics/ 13 decision on the application. The Fire Department vaccination for the entire population of the Town in applied for a Port Security Grant through FEMA to the event of a catastrophic event. Left: Deputy Chief Michael O’Brien Right: Chief Michael Cranson purchase a fire boat, with firefighting, medical, and Renovations to the fire station took place over the last Hazardous Materials response, with a cost of nearly year. These renovations included: addition of access $1,000,000. The department is currently awaiting a control systems and security cameras, installing a new decision on the application. generator with total station coverage, improving The department received a donation from The handicap accessibility, kitchen and bathroom upgrades, Portsmouth Volunteer Fire Department, a fundraising and the replacement of the mansard roof shingles. organization, for two Power Load Systems. The Power Fire Department staff appeared on the public access Load system is an electric system in which the portable television show “Portsmouth This Week” more than stretcher is mechanically lifted into the ambulance via 5 times to deliver information to the public on an electric arm mounted in the ambulance. The value departmental equipment, operations, staffing, and of this donation is $40,000. to deliver public safety education. In October of 2013, the Portsmouth Fire Department held its third annual Open House to kick off Fire Prevention month. Last year, many firefighters received specialized training, 4 new firefighters were certifed in Firefighter I and Firefighter II through the NFPA. Four firefighters were certified as Fire Instructor I (NFPA 1041) and 2 firefighters were certified through NFPA as Fire Officers (NFPA 1021). Finally, two firefighters were certified through NFPA for conducting live fire training ( NFPA 1403).

Over the course of the last year the Fire Department updated the patient care reporting system to a web based system in an effort to reduce out of service time for the ambulances during emergency medical responses.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 13 Hedly St, Middle Rd from East Main to Hedly, Warrens Way, Thurston Ave, Fairview Ln, Friends, & Anne Hutchinson Ct.

Full Depth Reclamation: This is the most costly, as the entire asphalt surface is ground up to the gravel base. All cities & towns have to include roads that need total re-building, however if we paved all the worst roads first, this would cost the Town more money. The goal is to keep roads from falling into the reclamation category.

Full Depth Reclamation Projects: Fountain Ave, Thorpe Ave, SeaConnet Blvd, Ruth, Gould Ave, Edith Ave, Ivy Ave, Harrington Ave, Harris Ave, Benedict Ave, Eyler Dr, & Sherman Ave. Left: Deputy Director Brian Woodhead Right: Director David Kehew Drainage Project: Installed Drainage on Sherman Ave (spring 2014). We Department have received many commendations & thanks from our residents for coming up with a plan to fix a terrible 14 drainage issue that has been in place for thirty-five years. of Public Works Road Protection Crack Sealing Projects(a process that fills the cracks to prevent water penetration and extend the I would like to publicly acknowledge our Public Works life of the asphalt surface at a much lower cost): employees on both Aquidneck and Prudence Island for our snow removal operations. Employees worked Jepson Ln, Old Mill Ln, Pequoit St, King Charles Dr, 21 storms, most requiring very long hours, and one Cromwell Dr, McBride, required working 31 hours straight. The teamwork our Thayer Ct, Thayer Dr, Immokolee Dr, Lambie Ct, Pros- men displayed working to keep our roads open and pect Ct, Prospect Farm Rd safe for our residents, all without a single complaint, is very rewarding. I am proud of our men, and the Town Rader Ct, Prospect Ln, Hamilton Dr, Sea Meadow Ct, is fortunate to have employees of this caliber. Gildas Ln, Joseph Rd, John St, Grain Terr, Robin Rd, East Terr, McCorrie Ln, Jepson Ln, Middle Rd from Hedly Mission Statement: St to 194 Middle Rd, Mill Ln, West Passage, Full Circle, The mission of the Department of Public Works is to Cory’s Ln, Marial Rose Dr, Chelsea Dr. provide a responsive and high quality public service to all Portsmouth residents in the maintenance and Recycle and Re-Use Program (Screening materials from improvement of town-owned property and infrastruc- our road projects and re-using them in our road mainte- ture through positive interaction, interdepartmental nance and construction programs): We create a stock pile relationships, and cost effective management. that is used on Aquidneck and shipped via our trucks to Prudence Island for the gravel roads. Activity During the Year: Maintaining Portsmouth roads is an on-going major Major accomplishments for Portsmouth Building and undertaking. Grounds in Fiscal Year 2014 include:

Major accomplishments for the Public Roads Program Elmhurst: in Fiscal Year 2014: Project manager for the hazardous material removal, demolition & successful restoration of the property. Surface Reclamation: A treatment that involves milling the asphalt surface at a lower cost. Glen Farm: Worked closely with NRCS (Natural Resource Conser- Mill & Overlay Projects: Ash St, Cypress St, Orchard vation Services) & Engineers to improve a blueprint View Rd, Ladiera Ave, Pine Tree Rd, Birch St, Silvia, whereas the drainage system was limited to the capture

14 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future of gutter & downspouts, & successfully negotiated to Grass Cutting: increase pipe size, placement, and outfall locations to Cutting the shoulders for traffic safety (visibility) on allow for future improvements with the drainage and 137 roads. Cutting & trimming all public rights of ways related issues with our Glen Farm Property around to the shore (including hedge trimming). Cut & trim the Barn areas. Installed new gutters and downspouts at the Phelps House (Linden Lane), Heritage Park, on the barns & connected them to the new drainage Founders Brook, Weaver Cove boat ramp, Bristol Ferry system. Town Common, Glen Park (several open fields), Lin- den Ln, Utility parking field at the Seveney Complex, Installed a new water line to the Polo pavilion with The Sakonnet Greenway Trail (Sandy Point Ave), and new backflow and meter. As improvement progressed the areas behind the Fire & Police Departments. with the new pavilion, it became necessary to change the water service with a new design so that the water Street Signage: is now potable and took away the possibility of anyone Installed 41 new street signs & repaired 42 street signs becoming ill from drinking the water. to comply with regulations & help to make our roads safer. Playgrounds: Replaced six sections of equipment at our Island Park Weaver Cove Boat Ramp: Playground and installed new bed material to keep our Removed sediment to allow the safe launching of children safe. boats. The Town will be working with several groups in the near future to make necessary corrections & Community Development Block Grant: overall improvement to the boat ramp. 15 Successfully wrote grants for our Senior Center for renovations to the kitchen area & to take care of areas Snow Removal Operations - A tough job: of exterior brick that need repointing. Responded to 21 snow events & removed over 50 inches of snow accumulations. The time & effort that Public Works general programs in Fiscal Year 2014: is involved with proper snow removal operations is Cleaned and inspected over 2,750 catch basins, considerable, to say the least. We made it through the including repairs &/or complete rebuilds for 59 severe salt shortage that affected our entire region by structures. We are one of the few communities in the being proactive early on. We budget for the average State that successfully developed the necessary skill winter, which is ten events. sets for all our employees in an effort to reduce costs Special Events - Recycle and Re-use: and preserve our infrastructure in-house. Picked up at curbside 1,433 Christmas trees & Street Sweeping: chipped them into mulch (available for all Portsmouth We continue to receive many compliments from the residents), planted a Tupelo at the Middle School & a public for our men on the outstanding job they do in Sugar Maple at the Historical Society. all areas related to street sweeping. Held a household hazardous waste collection (ECO We take care of over 100 miles of roads, seven parking Depot) at the Portsmouth High School on June 21,2014. lots & continue our road Conducted ongoing monitoring & maintenance of the maintenance program capped landfill on Prudence Island. for improvements to the roads on Pru- Provide taffic control barricades for various events dence Island. throughout our Town.

Mosquito Abatement Program: Treat all catch basins to kill larvae, treat above ground breeding sites, & continue working with a vendor for the treatment of saltwater areas.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 15 16 Left: Clerk Amanda Lawson Center: Town Clerk Joanne Mower Right: Deputy Town Clerk Patti Cofield Town Clerk’s Report

Mission Statement: Town Council It is the goal of the Town Clerk’s office to provide the 45 regular Town Council meetings were held for which very best customer service to everyone who comes to the Town Clerk’s Office received all incoming corre- or contacts our office. We shall treat everyone with spondence and prepared the agendas and minutes. respect and the understanding that their request is The Clerk also prepared 38 Proclamations, 17 Resolu- important. We are the “keeper of the records” and it is tions and 1 Ordinance.. our job to do this in a careful and conscientious manner knowing that whether preparing or filing marriage Vital Records licenses; issuing birth, marriage or death certificates; 112 Marriage licenses were processed and issued. In processing licenses; preparing Town Council meeting addition, 946 Birth, Death and Marriage certificates agendas, packets and minutes; processing Probate were issued. Court documents, agendas and minutes; or preserv- Licensing ing records, it must be done in accordance with the 131 various Business licenses, i.e., Alcoholic Beverage, requirements of Rhode Island General Laws and will Victualler, Holiday, Sunday Sales, Peddler, Amuse- be the records of the Town forevermore. ment Games and Entertainment Licenses were pro- Land Evidence cessed and issued. The Town Clerk’s Office recorded 3,887 Land Evidence Auxiliary Licensing documents (deeds, mortgages, liens, property maps, 1,638 Dog Licenses, 43 Hunting/Fishing Licenses, 24 and the like) and brought in $172,352.93 in Record- Duck/Trout Stamps, 474 Sandy Point Beach Stickers ing fees for the Town. We also collected a total of (most of which were free to Town residents) and 63 $450,882.87 in Real Estate Conveyance Stamps of which tent permits were issued. $248,647.47 was retained by the Town. 375th Anniversary Events - The Town Clerk and Dep- Probate uty participated in many of the events including the 111 Probate cases were opened. Probate Court was Gala Welcoming Reception, the Celebration Parade, held 13 times with minutes and agendas prepared. A Historical Research Discussion at Portsmouth Free and total of $42,434.43 was collected in Probate Court fees Public Library, and the Anne M. Hutchinsion celebra- for the Town. tion at Founders Brook.

16 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Exceptional Services Town Clerk and Deputy attended required annual The Town Clerk’s office: training by Attorney General’s Office on the Access to Public Records Act and Open Meetings Act along with • Became the first Town Hall Department to have other training to update office procedures and be cur- “paperless meetings” (for the Town Council) using rent on new and amended state laws. In addition, the the Town’s new website to provide access to the meet- Director of RI Vital Records provided training of new ing’s agenda as well as all backup materials. All of staff at the Town Hall. which are able to be viewed by the public 24/7.

• Continued the restoration and preservation of original Town documents including the scanning and indexing of hundreds of historic documents dating back to the early 1600’s, such as the “Portsmouth Scrapbook” and “Portsmouth Loose Papers.”

• Veterans of WWII event - Prepared proclamations and folders for over 120 veterans as well as providing support for the event.

• 2014 Supplement to the Municipal Code was prepared and made available online as well as 17 in book form.

• Municipal Court was organized and initiated in the Town.

• Expanded the Land Evidence online website for public access 24/7.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 17 18 Finance/Personnel Director, James Lathrop FY 2015 Revenue Finance Public Support 85.00% $49,198,386 & Inter-Gov’t Support 9.18% $5,311,301 Personnel Licenses, Permit & Fees 4.25% $2,457,850

Rentals, Investments & Other 1.57% $910,846

The department’s mission is to insure financial integrity $57,878,383 and accountability to the Town of Portsmouth and its citizens for the expenditures of funds and safeguarding of public assets.

The mission of the Personnel function is to support the FY 2015 Expenditures employees of Portsmouth by promoting a work envi- School Department 60.62% $35,086,474 ronment characterized by open communications, per-

sonal accountability and fair treatment of all employees. Town Gov’t 9.85% $5,702,133

Both the Finance and Personnel functions are commit- Police 9.45% $5,468,203 ted to providing timely, accurate, clear and complete information and support to other town departments, Fire 7.86% $4,547,800 citizens and the community at large in order to main- Public Works 6.05% $3,501,503 tain the community’s long term financial health

Debt Service 5.01% $2,899,450

Local appropriations 1.16% $672,820

$57,878,383

18 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future 1.57% Rentals, Investments & Other 4.25% Licenses, Permits & Fees 9.18% Inter-Government Support 19

85% Public Support

Revenues -$57,878,383

5.01% 1.16% Debt Service Local Appropriations

7.86% Fire

9.45% Police

9.85% Town Government

6.05% Public Works

60.62% School Department

Total Expenditures -$57,878,383

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 19 Canvassing Authority 20

Closeup-Registrar Jacqueline Schulz In back left to right: Temporary Clerk Susan Green, Canvassing Clerk Barbara Sherman, Temporary Clerk Jennifer O’Dwyer

The mission of the Portsmouth Canvassing Authority ing opportunities to register to vote, accurately main- is to protect the integrity of the electoral process and to taining voter records, providing educational resources, effectively and efficiently administer the provisions of and monitoring accessibility of election materials and the election laws of the United States and the State of facilities. We strive to guarantee that candidates know Rhode Island including, but not limited to, the gov- and follow the prescribed procedures mandated by ernance and conduct of elections, voter registration, law that allow them to appear on local ballots and that campaign finance, public funding of campaigns and their information is accurately transmitted to govern- any other duties prescribed by law. ing authorities within legal time-frames. We do this by working closely with both the Rhode Island Office of the Secretary of State, Elections Division, and the Board of Canvassers Chair D. Richard Carpender Rhode Island State Board of Elections. was reappointed to the Board by the Town Council in The greatest changes to the Canvassing office this fiscal March 2014 for another 6-year term. He rejoins Board year involved personnel. Madeleine Pencak retired as members Jill Wilson and Glenn Allen, providing the Registrar of Voters in March after 10 years serving the Town of Portsmouth with their experience and over- Portsmouth voters and candidates. She has set high sight of election procedures and requirements. standards that are to be maintained and continues to offer her assistance and guidance for the 2014 election Activity During the Year: cycle. The Board of Canvassers is comprised of three bipar- tisan members who are appointed for 6-year terms In addition to the November 2013 appointment of Jac- by the Town Council and the Registrar of Voters is queline Schulz as the new Registrar, Barbara Sherman appointed by the Board of Canvassers. The Registrar joined the office staff in January as Canvassing Clerk. also serves as clerk to the Board. Jennifer O’Dwyer returned to the office in June after a leave of absence. This trio approaches each day as an The Canvassing office serves all Portsmouth voters and opportunity to serve the people of Portsmouth with the candidates. We seek to ensure that all eligible voters excellence established by our predecessors. are able to participate in the election process by provid-

20 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future 21

The Canvassing office also stands ready throughout • Supported the annual Portsmouth Water & Fire the year to facilitate any issue(s) that the Town Council, District Board election; School Committee, or other local office chooses to present to Portsmouth voters by means of a special election. • Gave presentations to provide information and opportunities to register to vote to high school Activity During the Year: students at Aquidneck Island Christian Academy; to In addition to maintaining daily voter information re- all Portsmouth residents at the Portsmouth cords, some additional activities conducted to achieve Free Public Library; and to residents of Atria the goals identified above include the following: Aquidneck Place; and

• Attended trainings/seminars at the Board of Elec- • Processed Declaration of Candidacy and tions concerning Provisional Ballots, Polling Place Endorsement forms for the 2014 Primary Standards & Requirements, Poll Worker Elections and prepared all Nomination Papers Recruitment, and Election Equipment; for local candidates.

• Attended trainings/seminars at the Elections Division of the Secretary of State’s Office concerning As of this reporting date, ballots for the September Candidate Management and Processing Mail Ballots; Democratic and Republican Primaries are being • Conducted Polling Site Inspections with the Board printed; therefore, to obtain information about the of Elections to evaluate accessibility as defined by results of 2014 elections held September 9 and the Americans with Disabilities Act; November 4, please visit www.portsmouthri.com, www.sosri.gov, or www.elections.ri.us. • In conjunction with the Portsmouth School Depart- Election results and a complete report are ment, applied for and received a grant from the available after November 17, 2014. Rhode Island Governor’s Commission on Disabilities to address accessibility issues identified on the inspection report;

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 21 22 left to right: Christine Preuit, Matthew Helfand, Tax Assessor/Collector, Victoria Santerre Tax Assessor/Collector Office

The mission of this office is to determine accurate values of all taxable property (Real, Personal, and Tangible) in a fair, efficient and cost effective manner in accordance with local and state laws so that the distribution of the tax burden is fair and equitable. The mission is also to effectively and accurately administer the billing, collecting and accounting of all taxes in a professional, fair and courteous manner.

Activity During the Year:

To accomplish this mission, we perform the following tasks: • List and value all taxable property in the community • Receive, post and deposit funds for Real Estate, • Maintain and ensure the accuracy of the assessing Motor Vehicle Excise and Tangible taxes databases and maps that contain physical/legal • Administer (including the collection and processing of fees) property information the Transfer Station Sticker program • Record changes in property ownership, • Administer and oversee the annual Tax Lien Sale for land subdivisions, and changes in use codes delinquent taxes on real property in accordance with • Process and act upon taxpayer appeals RI General Law

• Process, review and administer exemptions • Preparation of Municipal Lien Certificates

• Review, oversee and administer the State of RI’s • Provide information to taxpayers, appraisers, title examiners, triennial revaluation mortgage companies, attorneys and the general public regarding tax accounts, transfer station procedures and • Provide information to taxpayers, appraisers, title examiners, general information relating to the Town mortgage companies, attorneys and the general public regarding assessed values

22 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Tax Assessment Board of Review

The Tax Assessment Board of Review was created under Article V Chapter 503 of the Portsmouth Town Charter. The board consists of three members who are qualified electors of the Town and are appointed by the Town Council for a term of three years. 23 The Tax Assessment Board of Review hears, reviews and considers the appeal of any Real or Tangible property owner concerning the amount of their assessed valuation as determined by the Assessor. The Board In carrying out these tasks the keeps accurate records of its proceedings which shall Tax Assessor/Collector’s Office: be available for public inspection. If it appears the • Gathered, maintained and updated information for 9,257 valuation of any property has been erroneously or Real estate accounts, 709 Tangible property accounts, incorrectly assessed, the Board has the authority to and 21,507 Motor Vehicle accounts order a correction.

• Maintained, updated and administered personal Activity During the Year: exemptions on 3,195 accounts This year the Board heard and acted upon 10 Real property appeals. • Processed and updated 758 property transfers

• Completed over 680 site visits and building inspections due to Building permits and CO’s (Certificate of Occupancy)

• Acted on 36 Appeals

• Produced 19,417 bills totaling $48,021,888 in receivables

• Processed 39,162 transactions

• 96.18 % collection rate for 2013 fiscal year receivables

• Collected $607,434 by credit card (1,968 transactions) and $2,188,785 by Automated Clearing House (4,477 transactions) payments

• Sold and processed 5,483 Transfer Station stickers which generated $541,330 in revenue

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 23 FY 2013 – 14 Accomplishments: FY 2013 – 14 saw continued effort to update the Town’s Compre- hensive Community Plan. With the hiring of a half-time Planning assistant devot- ed solely to working on this project, the pace has quickened in our work. We continue to dissect and outline each element of our current Comp Plan in order to organize the content, determine the facts, figures and inventories that need to be updated and to clarify and categorize the language 24 Gary Crosby, Town Planner in the plan regarding the Town’s goals, policies, and implementation tasks. In addition, we have systematically analyzed several Comprehensive Plans from neighboring communities for structure Planning and content useful to our efforts. Our next steps include producing a draft plan structure and outline, gathering updated facts, figures and inventories to Department populate the appendices of the plan and beginning to define goals and policies for each of the elements Applying the principles, practices and techniques of of the plan. the planning profession, it is the mission of the Plan- The Planning Department continues to be the lead ning Department to develop, coordinate and imple- in coordinating the decision-making process to ment all programs related to comprehensive commu- determine repair options for our idle Wind Turbine. nity planning, land use, environmental stewardship We continue to rely on a team of technical, legal, and community economic development in the Town of and financial experts hired to help us determine the Portsmouth. best course of action. Resolution of the wind turbine Activity During the Year: problem is on-going and accounts for a sizable per- To identify and analyze community needs and develop centage of the Planning Department’s time. of long-range plans to meet those needs. This activity includes the coordination of available resources as well The Portsmouth Planning Department continues to as the identification of new resources in the implemen- manage the Town’s Phase II storm water compli- tation all planning activities. ance in monitoring for illicit discharges to our storm drains during the fiscal year. Illicit discharge detec- To provide timely advice, technical expertise and tion and elimination field work remains on-going professional assistance in decision-making to the Town and the Town continues to be in substantial compli- Council, the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Re- ance with DEM storm water regulations. Planning view, as well as the various citizen boards and commit- staff attended several mandatory workshops and tees, as needed. seminars presented by DEM and others.

To coordinate with various regional, state and federal The Planning Department worked throughout the agencies in order to ensure Portsmouth remains in fiscal year in assisting the Portsmouth Harbor Com- compliance with all such agency rules and regulations. mission in drafting and seeking approval by various

24 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future state agencies of a new Harbor Management Plan. With the news that the current Prudence Island Work during this fiscal year focused on produc- Ferry operator intended to discontinue service to ing draft language for an updated Harbormaster the island on December 1, 2013, the Planning Depart- Ordinance to accompany the draft plan. Next steps, ment took a lead role for the second fiscal year in a row which include Town Council adoption and CRMC in seeking solutions for a seamless transition to a new approval of the Harbor Management Plan and Har- operator. During the year, a replacement operator did bormaster Ordinance, are on-going. emerge and as they began to take the necessary steps to wind their way through the complex permitting Last fiscal year, in an effort to contribute to the res- process and contractual obligations needed to move olution of the Town’s on-going dispute with DEM forward, the Planning Department monitored activities regarding wastewater issues, the Planning Depart- closely. The Planning Department was instrumental ment undertook the task of drafting and presenting in arranging for Town property on Prudence Island to to the Town Council a draft Portsmouth On-Site be leased to the new ferry operator in order to build Wastewater Management Plan. This draft plan a new landing facility for the more modern ferry boat integrates a number of older initiatives not yet im- proposed to be used. plemented with several new programs and policies and proposes a comprehensive plan for managing In addition to the on-going efforts described above, the population of individual septic systems in the the Planning Department sets the following (in no 25 Town of Portsmouth. Work this fiscal year concen- order of priority) as important goals for FY 2014-2015: trated on revising our current Wastewater Manage- ment District Ordinance to bring it into compliance • Draft and obtain approval by the Town Council and RIDEM with last year’s draft plan. Both the draft plan and of a Post-Construction Ordinance for to comply with Phase II amended ordinance are in the hands of DEM for Storm Water regulations. review, comment and approval before going to the • Begin a program of Development Plan Review to assist the Town Council for adoption. Planning Board in their decision making. The Planning Department is the point-of-contact for • Update the Town’s Official Zoning Map. all matters regarding wastewater in Portsmouth and as such has had significant engagement with home- • Secure the deed transfer of the land upon which the Weaver owners during the fiscal year regarding compliance Cove Boat Ramp sits from Northern Waterfront LLC. with the Rhode Island Cesspool Act of 2007. There remains a great deal of confusion in the public’s • Amend the Zoning Ordinance to permit agritourism and mind about the state law and more importantly the related activities by Special Use Permit. past deadline for cesspool replacement of January • Monitor the states construction design activities for the Town 1, 2014. The Planning Department has been called Center Traffic Improvement Project. upon on nearly a daily basis to answer questions and give advice regarding this important issue. • Manage the Development Agreement for the Newport Beach Club with particular attention to the provision for During the fiscal year, the Planning Department phased construction of LMI housing. was instrumental in ironing out the details of a new municipally-financed Septic Loan Program to assist • Update the Town’s Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan including Portsmouth homeowners with funding to replace a new section related to climate change and sea-level rise. cesspools and failed septic systems. The above Cesspool Act has required many to undertake ex- • Oversee the implementation of the Town’s Wastewater pensive system replacement in order to comply with Management District Ordinance including the hiring of a state law. This program is a response by the Town Wastewater Manager. to assist those in need of funding. • Strengthen the Department’s GIS capability

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 25 The Planning Board Administrative Officer is responsible for reviewing development applications to ensure their conformance with the Portsmouth Land Develop- ment and Subdivision Regulations. These regulations are intended to promote development that is consistent with the Town’s Comprehensive Community Plan and the Zoning Ordinance, and will accomplish the following purposes:

1. Provide for the orderly, thorough and expeditious review and approval of land developments and subdivisions;

2. Promote high quality and appropriate design and construction of land developments and subdivisions;

3. Protect the existing natural and built environment and to mitigate all significant negative impacts by the proposed development on the existing environment;

4. Promote design of land developments and subdivisions that Leon Lesinski, Administrative Office are well integrated with the surrounding neighborhoods; 26 5. Provide a thorough technical review of the proposed land Planning Board development or subdivision; 6. Apply consistent procedures for local record keeping on The Planning Board was established by Town Ordi- all matters of land development and subdivision review, nance under the provisions of Rhode Island General approval and construction; Laws, Title 45, Chapter 22. It is responsible for approv- 7. Protect the Public health, safety and welfare; and ing all subdivisions (creation of a new lot or revisions of existing lot lines) and Land Development Projects 8. Assure the orderly growth and development of the per the provisions of the Land Development and Sub- Town of Portsmouth. division Regulations, the Portsmouth Zoning Ordi- nance and the Comprehensive Community Plan. This Planning Board meetings are held the second Wednes- includes Planned Unit Developments, Open Space De- day of each month (except for July and December). velopments, Cluster Housing Developments, Planned The Board met eleven times during the 2013 calendar Industrial Developments, Planned Corporate Develop- year and heard twenty-three (23) land development ments, Planned Marina Developments, Planned Retail/ applications. These included a number of major sub- Service Developments, Planned Resort Developments divisions such as a 14 lot subdivision by Rhode Island and Low and Moderate Income Housing. The Planning Nurseries on Vanderbilt Avenue, a 15 lot subdivision Board also gives advisory opinions to the Town Coun- by Jam Construction on Middle Road and Schoolhouse cil and the Zoning Board of Review. Lane and an 8 lot subdivision by Harkin Development on East Main Road. Progress continued on the con- The Planning Board consists of seven members and struction of the Newport Beach Club (152 residential an Administrative Officer. The Administrative Officer units) on Bristol Ferry Road, Seafarer Residences (33 is available most mornings to answer questions and residential units) on East Main Road and three addi- discuss plans and procedures prior to formalizing an tional buildings at the Clock Tower Square commercial application and to schedule meetings with the Design condominium development on West Main Road. In the Review Board or the Design Review Committee. The first six months of 2014, the Board heard twelve (12) members are appointed by theTown Council for a land development applications. Major Subdivisions four year term. The current Board members and the were by Hope and High Properties, LLC for a six lot Administrative Officer are as follows: Guy Bissonnette subdivision on Turnpike Avenue and Joan DeMello – Chairman, Luke Harding – Vice Chairman, Kath- Trust for a seven lot subdivision off Vanderbilt Ave- leen Wilson, Edward Lopes, Jr., Michael James, David nue. During the 2013 - 2014 fiscal year, the Planning Garceau, Leon Lesinski – Administrative Officer Board collected $19,025.00 in fees.

26 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future William Clark, Director of Business Development 27 Director of Business Development

Activity During the Year: In 2002, at the request of the Portsmouth Economic Develop- In the Melville Marine District, New England Boatworks ment Committee, the Town Council established the part time is completing its second new building in the last four years. contract position of Director of Business Development (DBD). Also in Melville, the long awaited transfer of the 32 acre The aim of the office is to aid growing the valuable commercial “Backyard” to a partnership of existing marine businesses is tax base by actively promoting the development and expansion finally near. This choice waterfront land will provide needed of business in Portsmouth, provide assistance to encourage space for expansion by our vital marine companies and a business that may locate in Portsmouth and support local stimulate new employment opportunities. business initiatives. A recent bi-annual survey by the DBD of the 39 marine For the second year in a row we have seen the construction companies in Portsmouth indicated most survived the of a new large commercial building. The new owners of the economic downturn, are seeing an increase in work orders undeveloped portion of Clocktower Square are currently and are adding new employment. The Portsmouth marine constructing a new 25,450 square foot two story building. companies have increased employment by 20% over the The plan is to sell spaces on a commercial condominium basis 2010 low. The survey found there were 622 marine jobs similar to the existing building that has been a success with a in Portsmouth as of February. mix of retail and professional/medical offices. Occupancy should begin in the fall. A re-zoning proposal is before the Planning Board that could pave the way for additional new commercial construction on West Main Road.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 27 The mission of the Building Inspection Department is to provide professional and equitable administration of 28 George L. Medeiros, Building Official the Town and State Codes while fostering creative and diverse design and uses for safely built environments.

Activity During the Year: 621 building permits were issued, 488 electrical permits Inspection were issued, 535 mechanical permits were issued, 156 plumbing permits were issued. 2,226 total inspections Department were made.

Zoning Board of Review

The Zoning Board of Review has authority granted Activity During the Year: by Rhode Island State Law to hear and decide ap- The Board met thirteen times last fiscal year. peals from decisions of those officials charged with The Board heard sixty one petitions for variances/ the administration and enforcement of the Zoning special use permits. The Board approved fifty three, ordinance or local codes. This is the primary function denied two and two petitions were withdrawn. The and purpose of the Zoning Board of Review in zoning Zoning Board of Review collected $9,450.00 and spent administration and encompasses the power (if appeal $13,032,00 mostly for legal advertising (public notice). is properly taken to the board) to interpret the zoning ordinance or local law and to grant variances or special use permits.

28 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Housing Authority

between the actual rent charged by the landlord and the amount subsidized by Section 8. HUD has allocat- ed Portsmouth Housing Authority sufficient funding to support approximately 68 vouchers in 2014. HUD has designated Portsmouth Housing Authority a High Performer under the Section 8 Management Assess- ment Program. 29 Federal funding of local Public Housing programs has eroded steadily in recent years. Joseph G. Schiff, Pres- To promote adequate and affordable housing, econom- ident of The Schiff Group and a former HUD Assistant ic opporunity and a suitable living environment free Secretary for Public and Indian Housing, recently from discrimination. wrote an article entitled “Wake Up and Thrive” that was published in the Public Housing Authority Direc- Activity During the Year: tors Association’s June 4, 2014 issue of the Advocate. Portsmouth Housing Authority provides housing He strongly encouraged public housing authorities to for families of very low, low and moderate income “Wake up to the new realities and adapt or perish.” through two programs funded by the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Portsmouth Housing Authority has prepared for this eventuality over the past several years. The Authori- Those programs are: ty has implemented provisions in federal regulations • Quaker Manor is a Public Housing Program property at 24 CFR 943 Subpart C that allow public housing located at 2368 East Main Road. It is comprised of 40 authorities to create and operate wholly owned or con- efficiency and one bedroom apartments for elderly and trolled subsidiaries or other affiliates for the purpose of disabled residents. HUD funding is provided in the administering management functions of the Authori- form of annual Operating Subsidies and Capital Fund ty. Subsidiaries have more managerial flexibility than grants. Quaker Manor was occupied 98.5 percent of public housing authorities such as the ability to borrow unit availability during the past year. Capital Fund im- money to fund property improvements or equipment provements in 2013 included upgrading the fire alarm purchases. system in one dwelling structure and upgrading the office computer system. HUD has designated Ports- Portsmouth Housing is affiliated with Coastal Housing mouth Housing Authority a High Performer under the Corporation, a nonprofit corporation and an Instru- Public Housing Assessment System. mentality of Portsmouth Housing Authority. The Portsmouth Housing Authority – Coastal Housing • The Section 8 Program is the federal government’s Corporation partnership has enabled both entities to major program for assisting very low-income families, expand organizational capacity and achieve econo- the elderly and disabled to afford decent, safe and mies of scale by sharing staff personnel, office space sanitary housing in the private market. A housing and equipment. The bottom line is quality property subsidy is paid to the landlord on behalf of the par- management, responsive resident services and High ticipating family. The family then pays the difference Performer administration of HUD housing programs.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 29 Redevelopment Conservation Agency Commission

The following is a listing of the Portsmouth Conservation Commission activities during the 2013-2014 term:

• September 2013 Participated in the International Beach Clean-up and survey. Two adult volunteers. Approximately 90 lbs. of litter was removed from Pheasant Hill Beach.

• March 2014 Two members attended the day long URI Land and Water Summit.

• April 2014 Earth Day/free Burpee vegetable, flower and herb seeds give-a-way on two consecutive Saturdays at 30 Clement’s Market. Also gave away tree seedlings donated by the Tree Commission.

• May 2014 Attempted to locate the Portsmouth plaques that were to be installed on the granite boundary posts that we purchased for the Bristol Ferry Town Common. The Town Council requested they be installed by DPW. DPW is unable to locate these plaques. We will need to reorder. Activity During the Year: • Discussion of various options available to Portsmouth Our membership should be seven members but we under the Base Realignment and Closure process relating to only have four members. We have had only four Tank Farms 1 & 2 presented by Matrix Design Group, Inc. members throughout the year. It’s very discouraging to lack new members for such a prolonged period. We • The Agency was updated on the status of the Tank Farm have had to cancel meetings due to lack of our quorum transfer. Newport and Middletown have opted for nego- of three. tiated sales agreements with the Navy, thereby freeing Portsmouth to pursue its own LRA and request an Economic Currently working with the Tree Commission to Development Conveyance (EDC) as well as an Environmen- improve landscaping signage, and view access at tal Cooperative Service Agreement (ESCA). Heritage Park. A June clean-up day was very successful with much of the overgrowth removed. The • Special meeting to nominate and elect officers for entrance sign is currently being improved. Signs from 2014. David MacBain and Keith Humphries were West Main Road and Hedly St. are being ordered. elected unanimously.

• Prepare topics for presentation to the Town Council Meeting on April 14, 2014.

• Review PRA By-Laws

• Discuss impact of BIA Letter to Navy

• Discuss contingency plans in the event the BIA request is granted (or denied)

• Update on status of Burma Rd and Tank Farm Remediation

30 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Tree Commission

Established in 2006 with the adoption of the Tree As coordinated with the Chairman of the School Com- Preservation Ordinance, the Portsmouth Tree Commis- mittee and school maintenance staff, the commission sion is charged with advising the Town Council on the is evaluating the condition of trees located on school planting, maintenance, protection, and removal of trees property. The intention is to provide general guidance on public property. Duties also include fundraising, for the removal of hazardous trees and to identify the coordination of volunteers and public education to opportunities for replacement tree planting. To date protect, preserve and enhance town trees. the trees at Hathaway and Melville Elementary Schools have been reviewed with a report in The commission successfully applied progress. for and received re-certification as a Tree City USA community. This On Saturday, April 12, 2014 the Tree designation is an acknowledgement Commission members distributed of a community’s commitment to free tree seedlings to town residents. 31 protect and enhance their communi- There was a total of 6 tree species for ty forest. residents to choose from. The program continues to gain popularity with the Activity During the Year: greatest number of trees distributed to America the Beautiful (ATB) Tree date and many species running out Planting Grant: The Commission within the first hour. prepared an ATB tree planting grant for submission to RIDEM. The On Thursday April 17th, students from town was awarded a grant of $1,750 the Portsmouth Middle School partic- for planting of trees. Trees will be ipated in the planting of Portsmouth’s planted by DPW with coordination official Arbor Day tree. The tree was and fundraising for the match by the dedicated by students in the memory Tree Commission. of school bus driver Al Chapman.

In coordination with the Conservation Commission The Tree Commission formally recommended changes & the DPW, a plan was developed by the commis- to the Tree Ordinance that provides the town with the sion to improve Heritage Park. On June 7, 2014 a Tree authority to order the mitigation of hazardous private Commission work day was held at the park. North trees that pose a danger to the public while using pub- Eastern Tree donated the services of a 4 person crew & lic rights of way. equipment for one-half a day. A second service day is John Fitzgerald has assumed the position of Tree planned for the fall of 2014. Warden. John is in regular contact with the DPW and The commission received approval to utilize the attends all Commission meetings. existing escrow Tree Donation fund for the establish- Tree Planting requirement for new subdivision: The ment of a Commemorative/Memorial Tree Planting commission has recognized that many of the newer Program. The first memorial Tree was planted at the subdivisions in town lack trees. It is well documented Portsmouth Historical Society on April 17, 2014. Funds that the inclusion of trees in residential neighborhoods raised through the donation program shall be used as increases property values and improves quality of life. the town match for the ATB Tree planting grant. The The commission has drafted subdivision tree planting commission has developed a brochure to solicit spon- requirements for consideration by the Town. sorship donations. The DPW has agreed to plant up to 12 trees a year.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 31 Open Space Dog Park Planning Committee Committee

To establish an off-leash dog park for the Town of Portsmouth that is accessible to all residents and will promote education, training and safe recreational activities that facilitate responsible dog ownership and well-behaved dogs, through the use of volunteers and with the support of the community.

Activity During the Year: The Dog Park Planning Committee has been meeting monthly since July 2013 and has ended the first phase – learning if the dog owners in Portsmouth want and will use a Dog Park, and selecting a suitable site. Regarding the survey of dog owners: 449 survey responses were received and tallied. 86% favor a dog park in Portsmouth and more than half of those in favor The mission of the Portsmouth Open Space Committee is to ad- indicate they would use it daily or several times per week. vise the Town Council on proposed acquisition of open space Moreover, 40% indicated they would be willing to assist with in order to conserve the natural and rural character of the Town fundraising efforts. 32 of Portsmouth for the benefit of its citizens.

To accomplish this mission, the Committee has identified the Site Selection: following more specific goals. The committee spent a great deal of time researching dog parks around the country and members actually visited 16 1. to identify open space parcels significant to the Town; of them in 8 states. We contacted or met with 17 different 2. to educate the public about the benefits of open space people and/or committees in Portsmouth, and considered 20 acquisition; public and private sites. We agreed early on that the ideal site would be large enough to encompass 3. to conserve farmlands and farming as a way of life; two separate fenced-in areas – one for 4. to advocate and support passage of local, state and federal small dogs and one for large dogs, open space bond issues and referendums; with an agility section if possible, 5. to conserve environmentally sensitive areas; plus parking for at least 10 cars. We identified 5 sites that fit the size and 6. to conserve areas of intrinsic beauty; accessibility criteria we felt necessary. 7. to coordinate the Committee’s efforts with local, state and However, all 5 sites had their own federal conservation organizations; unique set of problems. Town Council members toured the 5 sites prior to 8. to make recommendations to the appropriate public bodies making the unanimous decision on regarding open space in planned developments; and, April 28th to designate several acres 9. to cooperate with local, state and federal government on the west side of the south (main) agencies and conservation organizations in such activities entrance to Melville Park as the site for as grant applications. the Portsmouth Dog Park. This choice was based on the least impact to neigh- bors and abutters and the desire of the Activity During the Year: Melville Park Committee to increase at- We have recommended to the Portsmouth Town Council to tendance and usage of the property. It is also centrally located place conservation easements on two properties in 2013: within Portsmouth. We are now preparing to enter Phase II - the design for the • Reposa Property, $1.00/$1.00 for open space, plat 68, park and the fundraising necessary to get it built. The commit- lot 3, 3.72 acres, between Reposa Family, ALT, and Town tee plans to send out regular e-mail newsletter updates as they move forward.

• Faria Farm, $133,000/$400,000 for farm/water reservoir, plat 60, lots 13 and 14, conservation easement on 12 of 14.6 acres.

32 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Melville Park Committee

To monitor, maintain and improve the trails and ponds within earlier rejection. A revised application for a permit was sent to the park for passive recreation, including fishing, hiking, dog RIDEM in June. walking, and appreciation of Portsmouth’s natural beauty for The fourth annual Winter Walk was held March 1, 2014. A residents, campers and the general public. 3-km course was laid out, and 46 walkers completed the walk to be awarded a walker’s medal. Boy Scouts manned the checkpoints. Refreshments were served. Employee/Volunteer Awards or Citations: Pond 8 was renamed Crockett Pond, in honor of the late G. The Committee assisted the Town Solicitor in analyzing and David Crockett, member of the first Melville Committee who responding to a RIDEM dam violation. We pointed out that worked to clear the land for the first phase of the campground the state’s contractor misinterpreted the Pond 9 valve gate and in 1983. The spillway crossing was named Croll Crossing to piping. The concrete interior of the dam in question eliminates honor William Croll who built the two stairways at the spillway. possibility of breeching and should avoid the need to clear-cut large areas around the pond, including many fishing spots. A previous Scout project, a council ring overlooking Pond Activity During the Year: 9, was mulched by DPW and is used for Scout and native The Park Committee applied for and was granted $450 from American activities. Currently a Boy Scout Eagle project and a the Aquidneck Land Trust Merritt Fund to install walkways Girl Scout Senior project are underway, and another project is that improve trail access over wet areas. One walkway has being proposed. 33 been built and installed by committee members; another is in planning. We assisted the Dog Park Study Committee in selecting a suitable area in the southwest part of the park, far from the campground, with easy public access. We maintained the five-trail system, removing fallen trees and en- croaching brush, spreading mulch to control weed growth. We have been patrolling and clearing trails on a monthly basis. Developed an equipment maintenance list and assigned members responsibility to maintain the equipment according to a recommended schedule. A brush mower was purchased and is used to control areas not accessible to campground or DPW equipment. New trail markers have been installed on all five trails. We provided northeast gate access to T. Graul to facilitate development of Clock Tower expansion. We continue to work The Park received help from the Campground, mowing park with Mr. Graul to control water runoff into the Park. roads and access to trails. Public Works provided gravel to We have been exploring amelioration of algae and pond weed fill holes in roads to support a Melville School activity. The growth with Aquatic Control Technology. In addition to yearly Department also moved mulch from the lower parking lot so treatment of Pond 1, we are researching ways to control the that Committee members can move it to trails. problem throughout the pond system and to minimize growth in Pond 9. We are continuing efforts with RIDEM to remove silt buildup and restore capacity in Pond 8. We were joined with an engineering professor to meet with RIDEM to understand an

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 33 Lower Glen Farm The Glen Park Working Preservation Committee Committee

The mission of the Town Council to support the Lower Glen The Glen Park Working Committee (GPWC) has been estab- Farm in providing local residents with open spaces & lished to oversee the operation and maintenance of the Ports- adequate park facilities while supporting Glen Farm mouth property known as Glen Park located off Glen Road. equestrian sporting & social events, as well as other events, Lots of good feedback from residents - how great the kitchen as the town may require. is so clean and modern, the park is so beautiful, how well we The Lower Glen Farm Preservation Committee & its Charter treat the applicants and answer questions promptly. Sore spots: was established by the Portsmouth Town Council on September restrooms and off leash dogs, bad incidents due to no leash. 15, 2004. The Portsmouth Town Council delegated its authority to The Lower Glen Farm Preservation Committee to act as liaison between the Town Council and the Glen Farm stables Activity During the Year: tenant, and also for the purpose of seeking grants in order to The GPWC closes for events on October 31 each year. We obtain funds for the preservation of the barns and landscape. have 11 meetings a year. December has no meeting but we Final authority and responsibility rests with are willing to do so if something comes up that the Portsmouth Town Council. needs one. During the winter months the applications (usually 31 to 32) are looked over and are evaluated for what has changed or is needed or Activity During the Year: are ok. We do not meet but we work on projects 34 Glen Farm is an important historic feature that we need done. Try to get some building of the town’s natural & built environment. repair started and lists of what needs to be done, Activities at the Farm should preserve & en- improve our paper work and forms and as April hance that feature, while sustaining the cost 1st is near we gear up for another season from of operation of the Farm to support & provide April 1 to October 31. facilities for equine activities & management. When we open April 1st, the sports groups are The following is a list of accomplishments ready to go, and they are many and we are at and on-going projects that the Lower Glen the point of using spots we never did. We are a Farm Preservation Committee has been multi-use park and residents are really good about working on: accepting that a soccer kid may wander through their birthday party. The sports are very orga- • The LGFPC has continued to coordinate be- nized at Glen Park. tween the Town, DPW, NRCS (USDA), and Ted Torrey (Lessee), to complete and close out the erosion-re- The events are overseen by the GPWC first at the monthly meet- lated repairs at Glen Farm. This project is near complete and ing; how it is done has been successful. only has minor items to be considered complete. We were about to bring up the subject of fees when the Town • The committee has advocated for a permanent conservation Council mentioned it and we agree, and will hope to have it easement with Aquidneck Land Trust and believes firmly addressed soon. The following Portsmouth groups receive a fee in the proposal. The very generous $1.5 million offer is waiver: Soccer, Softball, Lions, Rotary, Boy and Girl Scouts, unprecedented and should still be considered by the voters of 4-H Clubs, Police and Fire Departments, Schools, Library, Portsmouth. Republican and Democratic Town Committee, Portsmouth Con- cerned Citizens, and Preserve Portsmouth. Other groups that • We have discussed repairs and the preservation of the receive waivers: Potter Shelter, Church of the Latter Day Saints, facilities at Glen Farm including the “Ice House,” the “Phelps Knight of Columbus, Newport County Radio Club, Newport House,” the barns as well as the Riding Ring roof repairs Navy League, and Wires & Fires/RIAFAS. with the Town Council & DPW. Many of these properties are in poor condition and need attention. A prioritized list of In closing, the GPWC is frustrated that we cannot get Glen repairs have been created and approved by the committee. Park buildings maintained. Residents are asking why they are not and we are not sure why. We used to with or without bud- • The committee has been involved and collaborating with get. Volunteerism has gone down drastically, we cannot count PreserveRI in an effort to assess repairs to the “Phelps House” on them to maintain Glen Park’s buildings. and brainstorm ideas for the historic preservation of that property. • The committee was involved with the Boy Scouts to complete the Scout Project Walking/Hiking Path.

34 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Glen Manor House Authority

The Glen Manor House Authority is chartered by the Ports- mouth Town Council to operate in an advisory capacity to the Council. Its purpose is to restore, maintain, & preserve the Glen Manor House for the enjoyment of current & future gen- erations of Portsmouth residents: manage the operation/rental of the House for approved functions thereby obtaining the funds necessary to accomplish the restoration, maintenance & preservation & when possible return a portion of the proceeds to the General Fund.

Activity During the Year: The July 2013-June 2014 period was a highly successful year of change for the Glen Manor House. The major physical change that occurred was the demolition of the Elmhurst School, adjacent to the Glen Manor House property. Due to schedule uncertainties, the House was closed during November 2013 through April 2014. This resulted in some lost business 35 opportunities and the cancelation of the long standing events, Holly Ball & Holiday Open House. The good news, however, is that in spite of the lost opportunities, aggressive marketing by our resident managers increased sales in the remaining time, the results of which are shown in the following table. Further- more, we are 10 bookings ahead for 2015 of our 2014 pace.

July ’13-June ‘14 July ’12-June ‘13 House rental & fee income $444,075 $414,875 Table & chair rentals $8,495 *$12,148 Total revenue $452,570 $427,023 Budgeted expenses $205,294 $201,183 Gross profit (9.5% increase) $247,276 $225,840 Return to Town General Fund (75%) $185,457 $169,380 Added to Capital Improvement Account $61,819 $56,460 The number of members allowed by the Authority By-Laws *More customers have been electing to rent more elegant chairs from outside vendors. was reduced by the Council to 15; reflecting the transfer of social responsibilities to the “Friends of Glen Manor House,” a private organization chartered to support the Authority by Manor House capital improvement expenses were minimal conducting activities like the Open House, Holly Ball, Band ($29,820) in the past year. With the addition of $61,819 from Concert, & Tea Party. this year’s profit, the balance of the Capital Improvement Fund From a social & community relations standpoint we were able, is $175,460, which will allow addressing needs for the future. with the assistance of the Friends, to conduct three highly From an administrative & business standpoint this was a busy successful events. In July of 2013 we held our annual Ameri- year responding to the needs of the Town Council & Town can Band Concert with the largest audience to date. This free Administrator. A Business Plan was called for & delivered concert on the lawn of the Manor House is looked forward to resulting in meetings, feedback & suggestions. The bottom line yearly by hundreds of Portsmouth residents. In September of is that the Council wants to maximize the return that the Manor 2013 we were pleased to host a reception for the Lord Mayor House generates for the Town & the Manor House organization of Portsmouth, England as part of the Town’s celebration of its is trying to respond. Various ideas are being considered to ac- 375th anniversary. Lastly, on the first Sunday in May, 2014 we complish this. The open space adjoining the House where the hosted a Tea Party for women, daughters, and granddaugh- Elmhurst School once stood presents opportunities for addition- ters of local residents. It was a huge success with almost 100 al business which will be explored in the coming year. attendees.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 35 Bristol Ferry Solid Waste / Recycling Town Common Committee Committee The Portsmouth The Committee serves at the pleasure of and in an advisory capacity to the Town Council in conjunction with the Town Administrator. The Committee shall completely exam- ine Portsmouth’s solid waste disposal and recycling programs and make recommendations for their improvements.

Activity During the Year: Helped increase Portsmouth’s recycling rate from 17% in 2008 to 35.1% for the past fiscal year, meeting the RIRRC mandate.

Activity During the Year: Accepted RIRRC recycling rebate of $14,969 on September The Bristol Ferry Town Common, located at the northern end 30. The recycling rebates help support the following activities: of Bristol Ferry Road, was established on 12 March, 1714 in • Recommended hiring of recycling coordinator using RIRRC a list of “Rhodes, Ways and Lanes in Portsmouth” promulgated recycling rebate funds. Participated in interview process. by the Portsmouth Town meeting as determined by a committee 36 “… of Free Inhabitants of the Town of Portsmouth …empow- • Supported and worked with recycling coordinator on several ered to lay out all the undivided land in the Township.” This projects: document is available in Town archives. This Town Common was used by farmers and others to keep their livestock and • Earth Day celebrations in April 2014 at Portsmouth other goods while waiting for the ferry to Bristol. High School and Clements’ Market.

Over the past several years, the Town Common grounds have • Support to PHS senior project at Seveney been tended by local residents living in the area, with some Field sports complex. Currently looking limited support from the Town. In December, 2008, a Town at implementing recommendations to Common Committee was created by the Town of Portsmouth to Town Council. formalize this arrangement and to establish guidelines for the maintenance of the gardens and open areas of the Common. • Used Internet, social media and print As a first order of business, this Committee requested that media to encourage recycling. Will con- a survey be conducted by the Town to firmly establish the tinue to use media in coming year to spread boundaries of the Common, to be followed by the installation recycling information to the general public. of additional granite boundary markers along its borders. This was accomplished in early 2009. • Recycling rate improvement competition among area towns.

The next step desired by the Committee was to develop and in- • Screening of movie “Trashed” in November 2013 at St. stall an informational sign on the Town Common that described Mary’s Episcopal Church, followed by a panel discussion. its boundaries and unique history. To this end, a grant was applied for and approved from the Merritt Neighborhood Fund • Worked on sustainable event protocols, using draft protocols Committee of the Aquidneck Land Trust in the Spring of 2009, from Newport as a guide. Will continue work on develop- which allowed us to purchase and install the sign. ing protocols for Portsmouth events in the coming year.

For the past two years, the Bristol Town Common Committee • Continued to investigate pay-as-you-throw proposals for has continued to clean debris and conduct maintenance of the Portsmouth. This will be a major focus for the coming year. garden areas of the Common twice a year and as needed. The Common is currently in excellent condition, is clearly marked • Worked with transfer station operator to improve operation by stone boundary markers and is regularly mowed by the and signage, ongoing effort. Town. • Investigated off-site composting opportunities. In August, 2014, in honor of Portsmouth’s 375th anniversary, So far no viable sites have been identified. the Common was host to a ceremony with the Newport Artillery Company, which reenacted the firing of cannon • Investigated applicability of RIRRC Main Street program across Mt. Hope Bay, a common occurrence during the to municipal buildings. Will continue to work with town British Occupation of Aquidneck Island from 1776-1778. departments in the coming year Our special guest at the ceremony was the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Portsmouth, England, our namesake city, both of whom had an opportunity to fire the cannon.

36 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Harbor Commission

The mission of the Harbor Commission is the maintenance and Town Council and is waiting final approval by DEM and updating of the DEM required Harbor Management Plan (HMP) CRMC. The Guideline for the Development of Municipal and the resultant Harbormaster Ordinance in conjunction with Harbor Management Plans was initially published by CRMC the Town Planning Department. The Harbor Commission is in 1998 and revised in July 2009. The new Portsmouth Harbor also to provide oversight of the implementation of the HMP Management Plan now conforms to that document. The up to and assists in the management of the harbor through close date Harbor Management Plan, in addition to complying with coordination with and assistance to the harbormaster. the new regulations, will allow for improved water quality, Objectives are: safer boating and improved public access to the 42 miles of Portsmouth waterfront. • Update the HMP and Harbormaster Ordinance as needed to maintain compliance with changes in the National The Portsmouth Harbormaster Ordinance dated April 9, 2001 Clean Waters Act and State DEM/CRMC regulations. was revised to keep it current with the new HMP, the latest CRMC and DEM Water Quality guidance, and the recent • Suggest policy changes to the Town Council for the establishment of a Portsmouth municipal court. Final approvals of both the revised Harbor Management Plan and the management/use of Portsmouth’s harbor and Town Harbormaster Ordinance is expected by year end 2014. coastal land and waters, to improve the use and safety of those assets for the residents. Much time was spent with DEM and CRMC to understand the new regulations on mooring field management in relation 37 to shellfish harvesting and the protection of type1 waters. • Catalog the coastal and harbor resources of the Town. The Commission’s objective was to comply with the newly Identify any existing/potential issues associated with promulgated regulations yet create as little disruption for these resources, suggest actions that would resolve mooring users as possible. those issues and make Portsmouth harbor resources The Harbor Commission has continued its efforts to help the safer or more valuable to the public. Harbormaster with his clerical work so he is able to spend more Activity During the Year: time on the water. Four volunteer members of the Commission FY 2013-2014 saw the completion of a totally new Portsmouth have been authorized by the Police Department to assist the Harbor Management Plan driven by recent water quality Harbormaster in his office with mooring administration. With mandates. The Plan received conditional approval by the 900 moorings that come due every year for renewal, biannual inspection enforcement, and waiting list maintenance, there is a substantial clerical workload during the boating season. These auxiliary volunteers work with the Harbormaster to update the Online Mooring system and keep the system data correct.

Mooring Assignment Appeals Committee The Mooring Assignment Appeal Committee meets on an as needed basis when an appeal(s) is filed with the Harbormaster. Since the Harbormaster did not notify the committee of any appeals this past year the committee did not meet.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 37 Portsmouth Emergency Management Agency

Portsmouth EMA will protect life and property in the event of a disaster or crisis situation through a contin- uous program of Mitigation, Preparedness, Response, and Recovery.

Activity During the Year:

Portsmouth EMA Director John King and EMA Portsmouth EMA joined forces with Middletown Assistant Ray Perry participated in a FEMA EMA and Newport EMA in May 2014 to establish Commodity Point Of Distrubution training exercise the Aquidneck Island Emergency Volunteer conducted in Newport in August 2013. A commodity Alliance (AEVA.) The AEVA will allow the three Point Of Distribution (POD) is a pre-planned location Island communities to develop an Island-wide where life-sustaining supplies of water, food, tarps, pool of trained, credentialed citizen volunteers who 38 etc., are distributed to the public in the event that a will become a resource to be shared by all three disaster dispupts the normal retail distribution chain. communities. Development of common training Portsmouth EMA maintains a pre-packed mobile POD programs and credentialing processes will kit containing logistics supplies needed to quickly continue through the 2014-2015 time frame. establish a POD at one of our pre-designated POD

sites.Terms EMA you should Assistant know Perry, with the assistance of Hurricane/Tropical Storm ….. Watch: Hurricane or Tropical Storm conditionsScouts are possible and in the specified adult watch leaders area. This is usu- and parents fromCONTACT Ports INFORMATION- ally issued 48 hours in advance of the onset of tropical storm PHONE(all area code 401 unless otherwise noted): force conditions in order to give mouth’s Boy Scout Troop 82, inventoried,EMERGENCY refreshed, pare. citizens plenty of time to pre- ...... 911 Fire Department Eme Hurricane/Tropicaland re-packed Storm the mobile POD kit inrgency September...... 683- 2013. Warning: Hurricane or Tropical Storm Non-emer conditions are expected gency ...... 683- 1155 TOWN OF in the specified warning area. This is the signal to finalize emergency preparation as the full impact of Police Department 1200 Emerg PORTSMOUTH the storm is expected within 36 hours. ency...... Non-emer 683-2422 Portsmouth EMA, in conjuction with thegency ...... 683- Newport Harborm aster...... 0300 the storm Town Administrator 643-0137 DuringCounty….. Radio Club, the RI Department of...... 683- Health, and Public Works Department 3255 Under a storm Watch ...... 683- ….. Emergency Management 0362 ...... 683-  Listenthe frequently American to local radio and Red TV or Cross,your NOAA conducted School Department an eight-week weather radio for official forecasts and bulletins of a ...... 683- 1200 Building Official storm’s progress. Web resources and social media con- ...... 683- 1039 tacts can also be very valuable for those with access to the Local Red Cross Internet.Emergency Communications Technician...... 846- training 3611  Potter League for Animals 8100 Listen for emergency shelter location and activation details ...... 846- and confirm your evacuation routes to your pre-arranged RI Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) 8276 sheltercourse location. in February through April 2014. This course 24 hr emerge  Ensure that evacuation plans are made for pets. The Red ncy number...... HURRICANE Cross shelter does not allow animals. The Potter Shelter is US Coast Guard - Newport 946-9996 is designed to train Amateur Radio operators...... 846- for the primary shelter for animals. Rhode Island State Police 3675 ...... 444-  Fill up and service all family vehicles. Remember fuel for National Grid your generator, if you plan to use one. 1064 Preparedness & emergency communications service To report power roles in Emergency  Check and replenish your stock of batteries, non- outages ...... 1- Customer Service 800-909-1212 perishable food and drinking wate & Emergencies aid supplies. A minimum 3-day supplyr, medications is recommended. and first Prudence Island Ferry ...... 1-800-322-3223  Operations Centers, Red Cross shelters, and...... 253- Ensure you have extra cash on hand in case the power INTERNET: Evacuation goes out and ATMs don’t work. 9808 Town Web Site ...... http  Bring in lawn furniture and all other loose, light-weight ob- jects suchMedical as garbage cans, Emergency garden tools, potted plants,Points Of Town Dispensing. EMA Web Site ...... http://portsmouthemergency.com/ Ten://www.portsmouthri.com (10) and outdoor toys.  RIEMA Web Site ...... h Information Preparelocal to cover allAmateur window and door openingsRadio with operatorspro- Potter successfully League for Animals ttp://www.riema.ri.gov tective materials. If you do not have pre-cut plywood, do it ...... http://www. now. Prudence Island Ferry ...... potterleague.org  Set up a cooler with ice or frozen jell packs to store refrig- Portsmouth Patch...... http://www.porhttp://wwwprudenceferry.com erated foodscompleted in case of a power thisoutage. Helpfulcourse. Hint: Just Three of those course before the storm begins, you may want to turn the fridge to NOAA - National Hurricane Center ....http://www.nhc.noaa.govtsmouth.patch.com the coldest setting and seldom open it in case of power Local Weathe outage. Don’t forget to switch it back later! r ...... http graduates went on to take additional Portsmouth Police training://www.wunderground.com/ to be-  Inspect and secure all mobile home tie-downs...... http:/ facebook /www.portsmouthpoliceri.com  If you own a boat, make final arrangements for its safety ...... Port and security.come credentialed members TELEVISIONof the ANDPortsmouth RADIO: smouth Emergency Under a storm Warning….. WLNE-TV ...... Channel 6  Stay informed. Closely monitor radio, TV and Internet WJAR-TV ...... Channel 10 sources forEMA the latest information.Emergency Communications Unit. WNAC-TV...... Channels 11 & 64  Finish your storm preparations. There is no time to lose. WPRI-TV...... Channel 12  For your own safety, follow instructions of local officials. WPRO...... AM 630  Evacuate to a safe location if instructed to do so. The Portsmouth Emergency Operations WSAR...... AM Center (EOC) 1480  Make sure friends and family members outside the area are informed of your evacuation plans. WADK...... AM1540 Watch  Make sure wasyour pets activatedare safe and well cared to for. Hot Stand-By (Level 3) status in TOWN OF PORTSMOUTH  In the event of a power outage, make sure all electric appli- ances are turned off in case the power comes back on unexpectedly.response to a structure fire during this reporting 2200 East Main Road  Stay indoors, stay calm and stay safe. period. No Full (Level 1) activations occurred Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871 Phone: (401) 683-3255 during the reporting period. ThreeJohn Kingall-hands — Emergency Level Management Director www.portsmouthri.com 1 EOC activation drills were conducted during the reporting period.

38 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Portsmouth Prevention Coalition

• Worked with the Portsmouth School Committee subcommit- tee to develop a unified plan to address the issues that were uncovered in the Community Needs Assessment by helping to develop a new Portsmouth School Department Chemical Health Policy modeled on the best practices in this state, developed a Parent newsletter, “Reaching Out,” that explained the Needs Assessment and demonstrated the effectiveness of utilizing media in substance abuse prevention efforts, intro- duced the Life of an Athlete program, helped publicize and arranged to partner with the Tiverton Prevention Coalition in making it possible for Portsmouth and Tiverton schools to join together in bringing John Underwood to our communities to launch these programs of proven substance abuse reduction and performance based ideas that can be incorporated into not only the great sports traditions here in Portsmouth but to all students and parents. 39

• Completed our 2014-15 Community Needs Assessment and have presented that two year total to the School Committee and Town Council and is available on the Town’s website under the Prevention Coalition for public viewing. That data will be presented throughout the community and will give us The Portsmouth Prevention Coalition is a coalition of a solid basis on which to direct our prevention efforts and community members interested in coordinating and de- to raise the awareness in the town of the exact nature of our signing strategies addressing tobacco, alcohol and other substance abuse issues and assist in mobilizing community drug abuse with the primary goal of reducing youth effort to best address them. substance abuse and overall substance abuse rates to help create a healthy, responsible and safe community. • Worked closely with Portsmouth School Department and Supported Student Assistance at the High School by contrib- uting $19,000 towards that position. Activity During the Year: The Portsmouth Prevention Coalition has been very • Partnered with the Tiverton Prevention Coalition to reach out active this past year on many levels. We have elected and work with the faith communities in Portsmouth, Tiverton a new set of officers and increased our coalition to 16 and Little Compton and with all the 1st Student bus drivers active members. All state and local administrative du- and aides in the three communities. We honored the work ties have been performed and the coalition has met all of Marcia Blackburn as our Faith Community Prevention requirements from the state Behavioral Health Develop- Advocate of the year. mental Disabilities and Hospitals. • Project Purple formally recognized by the town During the course of the last year the Portsmouth Pre- government and the community as positive protective vention Coalition has made its goal to raise the commu- factor with our youth. nity’s awareness of our substance abuse issues and to • Underage Drinking Forum presented on 6/25 and available bring about some steps to change that. The following on video at The Portsmouth Concerned Citizen’s website. list are some of the initiatives aimed at reducing youth substance abuse rates by building the capacity of the • Wrote and filed a federal Drug Free Communities Grant that coalition and the community to employ the best will be announced in September of 2014 and much more! practices in the prevention field.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 39 Portsmouth 375 Committee 40 Our 375th anniversary as a Town was a big event in • Jul 4 375th Fireworks at Escobar Farm Portsmouth and it brought together volunteers from across all • Jul 15 Genealogy and Researching Portsmouth’s of our community to help us celebrate. A quick view of what Early Residents we had scheduled over the course of 2013 will give you some • Jul 17 Panel Discussion on genealogy idea of the many local organizations and groups involved. • Jul 18 American Band Concert • Jul 21 Friends of Anne Hutchinson Annual Meeting Opening of Founders Brook Park Improvements • Jan. 1 “Polar Dive for 375” Island Park Beach • Jul 26 Portsmouth Day at PAWSOX • Feb 23 3.75 K Winter Trail Walk at Melville Park • Jul 27-28 Indian PowWow Glen Park • March 7 1638 Portsmouth Compact Viewing Ceremony • July 28 Ann Hutchinson Women’s Polo Tournament at Town Hall/Lecture by Jim Garman in evening • Aug 8 NewportFilm Screening: • March 30 Easter Egg Hunt at the Brown House The Summit Polo Grounds • April 21 Earth Day Kite Festival Glen Park • Aug 11 Ann Hood book signing Green Animals/ • April 26 Pre-release of 375th Commemorative Wine Preservation Society of Newport County at Greenvale Vineyard’s Abbey Rhode concert • Aug 25 Rhode Island’s 1st Regiment Ceremony • May 4 Library Touch a Truck Glen Park at West Main Rd. Monument • May 4 Tour of Fort Butts/RIMAP/Garden Club • Aug 29 Glen Manor House 375th reception clean up with Girl scouts at Founders Brook • Aug 30 Greenvale 375th Wine Tasting • May 5 4th Annual Tea for Ladies Celebrating • Aug 31 375th Parade Island Park/ Portsmouth’s 375th Common Cannon firing • May 18 Restoration Celebration/375 • Sep 1 Family Picnic/Square Dance/Kite demo Label premier at Greenvale VY • Sep 6-8 Portsmouth Community Theater “Living History” • May 21 Jim Garman Lecture: • Sep 9 ALT Sponsored Jim Garman History Trolley Tour “Transportation in Portsmouth” • Sep 14 Symposium “Portuguese Among Us” • May 24 Portsmouth Garden Club Memorial Day Wreath laying Legion Park • Oct 5-6 “Ghostly Witness” Historical Play by the Portsmouth Community Theater • May 26 “All Around the Town” Exhibit Opens at Historical Society • Oct 18 375th Library Taste of Portsmouth • May 27 Memorial Day Service at Portsmouth VFW • Oct 20 Harvest Social at Ports. Historical Society • June 2 Prescott Farm tour/Portsmouth Abbey & • Oct 25 Eve La Plante, Author of American Jezebel talk Newport Restoration Society • Nov 3 Prescott Farm Tour/Portsmouth Abby • June 9 ALT Co-sponsor Oakland Forest and Windmill Tour Meadow Trail Walk • Nov 11 Veteran’s Day Ceremony with • June 17 Lecture by Dr Patrick Conley, RI State American Legion and VFW Posts Historian Laureate • Nov 12 Jim Garman Lecture “Portsmouth Coal Mines” • June 19-24 Centennial Cup Polo Tournament • Nov 16 3.75 Mile road race Common Fence Point – • June 20 Jim Garman Lecture: Portsmouth Business Association “Prohibition on Aquidneck Island” • Nov 19 Fred Zilian (Abe Lincoln) Gettysburg Address, • June 23 Portuguese American Club 375th Clam boil • Dec 1 Library Christmas Tree Lighting • June 27 375th Abbey Rhode Concert at Atria • Dec 31 Polar Dive 2: End of 375th year swim

40 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future THE BRITISH ARE COMING! PORTSMOUTH 375th CELEBRATION AUG 29 thru SEPT 1 www. PORTSMOUTHRI375 .com 41 While our celebration of Portsmouth’s 375th anniversary was Next up was a cannon-firing demonstration by the Newport a year-long series of events, our Gala 375th Weekend, from Artillery Company at the Bristol Ferry Town Common, with August 29 to September 1, 2014 was the highlight of the year. local resident, Abby Brown, providing some historical informa- Our VIP guests included Lord Mayor Lynne Stagg and her com- tion about the area. It was noted that when the British occupied panion, the Lady Mayoress Anne Taulbut from our namesake Rhode Island (as Aquidneck Island was called back then) from city of Portsmouth, England, Mayor Kenny Wright and his love- 1776-1778, they had set up an artillery unit in this area to try ly wife Thomasina from Portsmouth, Virginia, and Mayor Eric and stop American warships from slipping out of Narragansett Spears and his wife Jean, from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Bay, often exchanging volleys with a Patriot battery in Bristol. along with a variety of local Rhode Island dignitaries. Our The Newport Artillery Company actually traces its history back 375th Reception at Glen Manor House on Thursday, August to these British units. Bob Edenbach and the Newport Artillery 29, organized by Dennis Chandler, provided an opportunity Company supported many of our events over the course of the for Portsmouth residents to meet and chat with our guests and year, adding color and a sense of history to our celebrations. witness a gun salute by the Newport Artillery Company on the Rounding off a busy day, in the evening our British guests were Manor House lawn. Our guests were then treated to a private taken to watch a US-UK Polo match at the Portsmouth Polo dinner at the Carnegie Abbey Club to round out the evening. Grounds. The UK won, and Lord Mayor Lynn Stagg presented On Friday evening, the venue changed to Greenvale the winners with a trophy at the closing ceremonies. Vineyards, where our guests were treated to a private Sunday, September 1, was our Portsmouth 375th Family Day reception and tour of the Parker residence, followed by a Picnic at Glen Park, organized by Debra Correia, which public wine-tasting and chamber music event at the Vineyard included games, rides and demonstrations geared to children office, thanks to the generosity of Nancy Parker Wilson. of all ages. Music was provided by the US Navy Band Combo Nothing beats beautiful music, delicious wine and the company and Bob Hamilton and the Portsmouth Town Howlers provided of good friends at our official 375th vineyard at Greenvale! a square dance demonstration that included the participation Saturday morning, we kicked off the 375th Parade, organized of our principal guest, Lord Mayor Lynn Stagg from the UK. by George Wardwell, which included over 60 entries, includ- Our VIP visitors departed in the following days, but all were im- ing our own 375th Float, constructed by our local Girl Scouts, pressed with the friendliness and sense of community that they the Portsmouth High School Marching Band, fresh from their had witnessed during their stay. To preserve and enhance that participation in the Presidential Inaugural Parade in Washing- legacy, the four “Portsmouths” located on the Atlantic agreed to ton, DC, as well as the Navy NE Marching Band and the 88th sign a pact, which we called the “Portsmouth Atlantic Com- Army Band. Our guests and local dignitaries had places of pact,” to commit to expanding intra-city relationships in the honor in the parade, which was led by Portsmouth’s own areas of education, art, and economic development. Louis Escobar as our Parade Grand Marshall. The parade was followed by a VIP tour of newly refurbished Founder’s Brook An art project that included our town and a high school in Park, and an alfresco lunch of Portsmouth fish and chips Portsmouth, England was developed early in the year by provided by Flo’s Clam Shack. Rose Escobar, an Art teacher at Portsmouth High School. This involved students and residents of both communities creating

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 41 Portsmouth 375 Committee continued 42 artistic “tiles” under the general theme of “My Portsmouth.” On January 13, 2014 the Town Council recognized the work These were displayed at the Portsmouth Free Public Library of the 375th Steering Committee with the first Annual “Ports- and other locations in town and those judged the most interest- mouth Award” to honor citizens who have made significant ing were sent to Portsmouth, England to be included in contributions to our community. While this honor was deeply their showing in mid-2014. appreciated, 375th Steering Committee Chairman, Esmond “Doug” Smith, and Vice Chair Gary Gump, thanked the This was the first in what many of us hope to be many such many other individual citizens and local organizations who cooperative projects. The Portsmouth Atlantic Compact was volunteered their time, energy, talents and money to make our signed by the leaders of all four communities and a website 375th anniversary a memorable year. This included local dedicated to this long-term volunteer-driven project has graphic artist Tom Roskelly, whose iconic 375th logo design been created by Rich Talipsky. It can be viewed at won awards for graphic design and was the basis for Louis www.portsmouthatlantic.org. Escobar’s Corn Maze design in 2013. As the list of events above indicates, our “gala” weekend was Special thanks were also offered to the key organizations who followed by several other events. Highlights included more provided major financial support to the group, which included presentations in Town Historian Jim Garman’s excellent lecture Clements Market, American Legion Post 18, Portsmouth Abbey, series, a lecture by noted author Eve LaPlante (“American People’s Credit Union, Newport Bank, BankNewport, and Jezabel,” the story of Anne Hutchinson) at Portsmouth Abbey Jim and Dotti Garman, as well as to our official 375th a historical play, “Ghostly Witness,” based on true events newspaper, the Newport Daily News, which did a great in Portsmouth in the 1670’s, written and performed by the job helping us with publicity over the course of the year Portsmouth Community Theater, a 3.75 mile road race at and published a special Portsmouth 375th edition insert in Common Fence Point, sponsored and organized by the August that was filled with information about our history. Portsmouth Business Association, and Portsmouth resident Copies of this insert as well as other documents and artifacts Fred Zilian’s portrayal of Abraham Lincoln in a recital of the from the year have been placed in a “Time Capsule” for the Gettysburg address at the Town Hall, to name a few. group that works on our 400th anniversary to open in 2037. Our 375th celebration ended as it had begun, with a dip Our year-long 375th anniversary celebration was truly a into the frigid waters of Island Park beach on December 31. community affair. At the post-Polar Dive party, we symbolically passed the 375th anniversary celebration on to Newport Mayor, Harry Winthrop, to start the New Year, 2014, which is Newport’s 375th. Many of these 375th anniversary events were captured on video by Proud Heritage, our award-winning videographer, Rich Talipsky, and these are still available for viewing at www.portsmouthri375.com. Bright Future

42 www.PortsmouthRI.com Proud Heritage, Bright Future Future planned initiatives for FY 2015

Settle the remaining labor contract for the Police.

Complete negotiations with DEM to settle the wastewater/NOV issue. Implement the loan program to help our residents through the septic system issue that many face this year and beyond.

Complete the due diligence and contract negotiations needed for repair of the wind turbine; make a final recommendation to the TC on resolution. 43 Keep moving forward with relationship building and consolidation efforts between school and municipal activities.

Engage more closely in the West Side land use issues/initiatives: Master Plan, AIRIA, USN concerns, interaction with Middletown, and Burma Road. This becomes more of a priority as the final issues with the Bureau of Indian Affairs have been cleared.

Finish the review/update of our Comprehensive Community Plan.

Strategic plan for utilization of all Town property. Begin renovations on Town buildings.

Develop the organizational concept for a Recreation Program, identify funding requirements, revenue expectations and hire a Recreation Director in accordance with our Town Charter (Sec. 605. Parks and Recreation).

Develop/exploit potential revenue sources in a systematic manner. Present a detailed and comprehensive revenue plan, and supporting policy, to ensure the Town’s interest are fairly served in private or public use of our fields, facilities, resources and assets.

Proud Heritage, Deliver a master plan on utilization of Glen Farm activities. Bright Future Establish new financial targets for expanded business operation/utilization of Glen Manor House.

Portsmouth, Rhode Island Established 1638 Annual Report 2013-2014 43 Portsmouth, Rhode island

2200 East Main Road Portsmouth, RI 02871

Annual Report 2013-2014

Established 1638