Cumberland public meetings in 2025
58 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council held a special meeting on December 17, 2025. The body entered executive session to discuss the acquisition of real property for public purposes and voted to seal the minutes.
- Discussion of real property acquisition for public purposes under R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(5)
Planning Board Meeting
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a revised preliminary plan for the Steeple & Stone project. The proposal involves the adaptive reuse of the vacant St. Patrick Church into 100% affordable rental units.
- Public hearing for Steeple & Stone (St. Patrick Church) at 295 and 305 Broad Street
- Proposal to increase affordable rental units from 44 to 60
- Request for a Performance and Maintenance Bond of $186,942
- Requests for adjustments to residential density, maximum lot coverage, and number of buildings on a lot
- Director's report on Ordinance #25-22A regarding Multiple Residences on a Lot
Town Council Meeting
The council approved ordinance #25-21, amending the zoning ordinance for accessory structures and accessory dwelling units, by a 5‑2 vote. It also granted 30‑day extensions for all first‑ through fourth‑class victualling house liquor licenses and set a follow‑up meeting for January 7, 2026. An extended‑hours license request for Mendon Express on Broad Street was tabled until Dec. 17, 2025. The council approved a special entertainment license for the Cumberland Library Anniversary Carnival on June 20, 2026.
- 30‑day extensions granted for first, second, third, and fourth class victualling house licenses (multiple establishments listed)
- Extended‑hours license for Broad Street Food & Fuel Inc. dba Mendon Express, 290 Broad St, tabled to Dec. 17, 2025
- Entertainment license approved for Cumberland Library Anniversary Carnival, June 20, 2026
- Ordinance #25-21 amending zoning ordinance for accessory structures/ADUs approved 5‑2
- Consent agenda: acceptance of Nov. 19, 2025 meeting minutes approved unanimously
License Commission Meeting
The Board of License Commissioners approved renewals for multiple liquor licenses with a 30-day extension and granted a one-day extension for a New Year's Eve celebration.
- Approved 2025-2026 liquor license renewals with 30-day extensions
- Approved one-day extension for Club Juventude Lusitana on New Year's Eve
- Accepted minutes from the November 19, 2025 special meeting
- Licenses pending fire approval include Blackstone Herbs and Coffee Shop and RLS Restaurants
- Licenses pending certification include Filibuster Club
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council held a special meeting primarily to enter an executive session. The body discussed the acquisition of real property for public purposes and voted to seal the minutes of that session.
- Executive session regarding real property acquisition under R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(5)
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of Licensing met on November 19, 2025 and approved the minutes from the November 5 meeting. The board voted unanimously to grant a Class F license to Adams Farm for an outdoor beer garden at 158 Burnt Swamp Road on November 28‑30, 2025, from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. No public comments were received. The meeting adjourned at 7:36 p.m.
- Approval of minutes from the regular meeting of November 5, 2025
- Approval of Class F license for an outdoor beer garden at Adams Farm, 158 Burnt Swamp Road, for Nov 28‑30, 2025, 1‑6 p.m.
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council approved a $8,350 engineering change order for a Diamond Hill Park crosswalk and adopted an ordinance preventing future subdivisions of affordable housing lots. The Council also voted to decline further participation in a legal appeal and approved a Narragansett Electric training facility fence. Several zoning and traffic ordinances were tabled for the December 3 meeting.
- Approved $8,350 engineering change order for Diamond Hill Park crosswalk
- Adopted ordinance preventing subdivision of affordable housing lots
- Voted to decline further participation in Barrington vs. State appeal
- Approved Narragansett Electric barbed wire fence at 1595 Mendon Road
- Tabled multiple zoning and traffic ordinances to December 3
Special Town Council Meeting
The council entered an executive session to discuss potential acquisition of real property for public purposes and the ongoing litigation Town of Barrington et al. v. State et al. The session was called under R.I.G.L. §42‑46‑5. The council also voted to seal the meeting minutes and then adjourned.
- Executive session to discuss acquisition of real property for public purposes (R.I.G.L. §42‑46‑5(a)(5))
- Executive session to discuss litigation Town of Barrington et al. v. State et al. (R.I.G.L. §42‑46‑5(a)(2))
- Motion to seal the meeting minutes (vote 6‑0)
- Motion to adjourn the meeting (vote 6‑0)
Zoning Board Meeting
The board approved the minutes from the July 9 meeting. It granted a one‑year extension of a dimensional variance to Kevin Joyce of 200 Cato Street. It also approved a front‑yard setback variance for Michael and Monique Charpentier at 57 Pound Road to allow a small garage addition.
- Approval of prior meeting minutes (July 9) by a 5‑0 vote
- One‑year extension of a dimensional variance for Kevin Joyce, 200 Cato Street (Article 18‑6) approved 4‑0
- Front‑yard setback variance (≈10 ft) for 57 Pound Road, Assessor's Plat 038, Lot 21 approved 5‑0
- Schedule change: next year’s meeting moved to November 17 due to Veterans Day
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of Licensing met on November 5, 2025 and accepted the September 17, 2025 minutes. The board voted unanimously to approve the 2025‑2026 renewals for Class A, Class BNT, Class BV, Class BVL, Class D, Class DL, and Class OSPE liquor licenses. Each renewal was presented by license number and business name and was approved by a 7‑0 vote.
- Approval of Class A renewals for five businesses (e.g., Teixeira & Co. dba Pop’s Liquors, LL‑76)
- Approval of Class BNT renewals for fourteen businesses (e.g., Andrew’s Bistro, LL‑20)
- Approval of Class BV renewals for thirteen businesses (e.g., La Familia, LL‑42)
- Approval of Class D renewals for seven organizations (e.g., Club Juventude Lusitana, LL‑34)
- Approval of Class OSPE renewals for six businesses (e.g., La Familia Restaurant, LL‑42)
Special Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council held a special meeting on November 5, 2025. Councilors voted 4‑0 to go into executive session to discuss items of business under R.I.G.L. §42‑46‑5(a)(1‑9), including potential litigation and the case Town of Barrington et al. v. State et al. The council then voted 5‑0 to seal the meeting minutes and adjourned at 7:16 p.m.
- Motion to enter executive session to discuss potential litigation (R.I.G.L. §42‑46‑5(a)(2))
- Discussion of the Town of Barrington, et al. v. State, et al. case
- Motion to seal the meeting minutes (vote 5‑0)
- Adjournment of the special meeting (vote 5‑0)
Town Council Meeting
The council unanimously approved a municipal mobile food establishment license for East Landing. It also approved first‑, second‑, and third‑class victualling house licenses for dozens of local businesses. Council members heard a Good Energy presentation on community choice aggregation for electricity, but no resolution was adopted.
- Approval of East Landing dba East Landing RI mobile food establishment license (unanimous vote 7‑0)
- Approval of first‑class victualling house licenses for establishments such as La Familia Restaurant (1666 Diamond Hill Rd) and Andrew’s Bistro (3755 Mendon Rd)
- Approval of second‑class victualling house licenses for businesses including Blackstone River Theatre (549 Broad St) and Subway (2130 Mendon Rd)
- Approval of third‑class victualling house licenses for locations such as Juliana’s Italian Bakery (1181 High St) and Domino’s Pizza (3383 Mendon Rd)
- Good Energy presentation on community electricity/choice aggregation; council asked questions but no vote taken
Planning Board Meeting
The Planning Board will hold public hearings on a solar energy system and land subdivision requests. The board will also consider a recommendation for an ordinance regarding residential compound uses and comprehensive permits.
- Ground mounted medium-scale solar energy system at 3100 Diamond Hill Road
- Ordinance #25-22 to establish residential compound use by Special Use Permit
- Request to omit sidewalks at The Preserve at Hunting Hill on Meadowbrook Drive
- Lot line move and variance for minimum lot area at 245 & 247 West Wrentham Road
- Front yard setback variance for a garage extension at 57 Pound Road
Special Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council entered an executive session to discuss items listed under R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(1-9). Topics included the solicitor's quarterly litigation update, the collective bargaining agreement with the Town's public safety dispatchers (International Association of Fire Fighters, Local 2725), and potential litigation concerning Raymond Burt at 15 Standring Street. The council also voted to seal the meeting minutes and adjourned the session.
- Executive session to review solicitor's quarterly litigation update
- Discussion of collective bargaining agreement with Public Safety Dispatchers, IAFF Local 2725
- Potential litigation regarding Raymond Burt at 15 Standring Street
- Motion to seal the meeting minutes
- Motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10 p.m.
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council approved several infrastructure funding requests and a collective bargaining agreement for public safety dispatchers. The council denied a request for a Domino's location to extend its operating hours to 2:00 a.m.
- Approved $310,900 contract amendment with Pare Corporation for water and sewer design in Ashton and Berkeley
- Approved low-interest loan application up to $374,143 for the municipal road and bridge revolving fund
- Approved collective bargaining agreement for Public Safety Dispatchers including a 3% retroactive and 4% FY26 increase
- Approved $13,850 payment to Statewide Plumbing and Heating Inc. for a water heater at the Public Safety Complex
- Approved $25,964 for well pump and motor replacement at Franklin Farm Well #2 via Weston and Sampson
Town Council Meeting
The council approved the September 17 minutes, granted a municipal mobile food license to Atomic Blonde Ice Cream, and adopted resolution R-25-54 abandoning a portion of Kilburn Street for the BF Norton Elementary School construction, including an easement for Rhode Island Energy. It also approved a special event entertainment license for the Truck or Treat event at 205 Manville Hill Road on October 25, 2025, and appointed Kerri Austin as confidential assistant to the chief of police. The request for an extended‑hours license for Domino's at 250 Mendon Road was tabled pending further information.
- Acceptance of September 17, 2025 meeting minutes (Consent Agenda)
- Municipal mobile food establishment license issued to Atomic Blonde Ice Cream
- Resolution R-25-54 abandoning part of Kilburn Street for BF Norton Elementary School, with easement for Rhode Island Energy
- Entertainment license for Truck or Treat event at 205 Manville Hill Road, Oct. 25, 2025
- Appointment of Kerri Austin as confidential assistant to the chief of police
Planning Board Meeting
The Cumberland Planning Board will approve July 31 minutes and receive the Director’s report. It will hold public hearings on several major land development projects, including Haley’s Commons, an RI Energy training facility expansion, Blackstone Residences, and the Steeple & Stone affordable‑housing redevelopment. A minor home addition and a presentation on zoning resiliency will also be considered.
- Haley’s Commons – request for two three‑unit buildings, one two‑unit building, and conversion of an existing building into two units at 75 Manville Hill Road; three of ten units will be affordable.
- RI Energy Training Facility – expansion of the Rhode Island Energy site with a worker training center at 1595 Mendon Road, 96 Scott Road, and 38 Scott Road.
- Blackstone Residences – 16‑unit condominium with four affordable units at 618 Broad Street.
- Steeple & Stone – revision to increase affordable rental units from 44 to 60 at 295 and 305 Broad Street.
- AJ Home Addition – two‑family residential building with two affordable units at 50 Oakwood Avenue.
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of Licensing met on September 17, 2025 to consider several license applications. It approved a temporary outdoor serving license for Furna Bar & Restaurant at 422 High Street for a fundraiser on October 12‑13, 2025. It approved a Class F license for Adams Farms LLC at 158 Burnt Swamp Road to operate a Beer Garden on multiple weekends from September 20 to November 2, 2025, pending building official approval. It approved a Class F‑1 license for Friends of Franklin Farm Association for its Harvest Festival on September 27‑28, 2025, pending final tent inspection.
- Temporary outdoor serving license – Furna Bar & Restaurant, 422 High Street, fundraiser Oct 12‑13, 2025 – approved
- Class F license – Adams Farms LLC, 158 Burnt Swamp Road, Beer Garden on specified dates Sep 20‑Nov 2, 2025 – approved pending building official approval
- Class F‑1 license – Friends of Franklin Farm Association, Harvest Festival Sep 27‑28, 2025 – approved pending final tent inspection
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council met for a special session to discuss real property acquisition and potential litigation. The council voted to seal the minutes of the meeting.
- Executive session regarding acquisition of real property for public purposes
- Executive session regarding potential litigation
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council voted to substitute ordinance #25-19A for #25-19, adopting a tax stabilization agreement with Hartford Holdings for the Historic Ann & Hope Mill. The council also approved real estate supplements of $9,624.98, mobile food licenses for Shawarma Brothers and La Loncherita, a fourth‑class victualling house license for Don Quintin Asados LLC, and special event entertainment licenses for Truck or Treat and a Color Run fundraiser. The tax agreement provides the town $5.6 million over 20 years plus a $25,000 voluntary contribution for public amenities.
- Approval of municipal mobile food establishment licenses for Shawarma Brothers and La Loncherita Food Truck
- Approval of real estate supplements totaling $9,624.98
- Approval of a fourth‑class victualling house license for Don Quintin Asados LLC, 1800 Mendon Road, Unit K13
- Approval of special event entertainment licenses for Truck or Treat at Garvin Elementary School (Oct 5 2025) and Color Run Fundraiser at Cumberland Monastery (Oct 3‑4 2025)
- Adoption of tax stabilization agreement ordinance #25-19A for Historic Ann & Hope Mill, providing $5.6 million over 20 years and a $25,000 voluntary contribution
License Commission Meeting
The Board of Licensing reviewed a transfer of a Class BV license and a request for a temporary outdoor serving license. One transfer was approved pending specific certifications, while another request was tabled due to a date change.
- Approved Class BV license transfer from McT's Tavern, Inc. to Carlton Catering & Services LLC at 940 Mendon Road
- Tabled temporary outdoor serving license application for Furna Bar & Restaurant at 422 High Street to October 1, 2025
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council approved streamlined liquor license regulations and a no-parking zone on Ryan Avenue. The body also received a detailed report on school enrollment increases and the completion of eight summer construction projects.
- Approved $21 million in renovations for Community School
- Approved $1.5 million science lab renovations for both middle schools
- Approved a transfer of First-Class Victualling House License to Carlton Catering & Services LLC at 940 Mendon Road
- Approved a no-parking zone on Ryan Avenue to reduce traffic congestion
- Approved a resolution adopting streamlined Liquor License Regulations
Planning Board Meeting
The Planning Board will hold a public hearing regarding a preliminary plan for Haley’s Commons. The applicant seeks to build and convert units for a total of ten residential units, three of which would be affordable.
- Public hearing for Haley’s Commons at 75 Manville Hill Road
- Proposal for two three-unit buildings, one two-unit building, and one two-unit conversion
- Request for adjustments to R-1 zoning regarding density, setbacks, lot coverage, height, and parking
License Commission Meeting
The Board of Licensing reviewed and voted on multiple liquor license applications for local businesses and community fundraisers. Several approvals were made contingent upon the submission of proper insurance documentation.
- Approved Class BNT license for Vindu Foods LLC at 356 Mendon Road, pending insurance certificate
- Approved Class F license for Cumberland Beagle Club at 425 Nate Whipple Highway for Layla’s Dream Fundraiser
- Approved Class F1 license for Cumberland Beagle Club for a CBC Game Dinner
- Approved Class F1 license for Bev Voyage LLC for CYSA Fall Recreation Soccer event, pending insurance
- Approved temporary outdoor serving license for Cumberland Athletic Club at 30 Hamilton Street
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council approved several infrastructure and technology contracts, including network and workstation upgrades. The body also reviewed the Police Department's annual report and processed various business licenses.
- Approved $750,000 contract with D’Ambra Construction for sidewalk and curbing repair on town roads
- Approved lease purchase for PC workstations with Retrofit Technologies and HP not to exceed $60,773.81 per year for three years
- Approved $39,601.69 for network switch upgrades via Retrofit Technologies
- Approved real estate supplements totaling $2,249.16
- Approved victualling house licenses for Vindu (356 Mendon Road) and Golden Champa (371 Bound Road)
Planning Board Meeting
The Planning Board will hold public meetings and hearings on four residential subdivision and construction projects. The board will also receive a presentation on updating land use tools and regulations to increase climate change resilience.
- 147 Pound Road: Proposal to create three lots, including five 3-bedroom detached condos
- 475 Mendon Road: Proposal for 12 residential units, with 3 designated as affordable
- 75 Manville Hill Road (Haley’s Commons): Proposal for 10 units, with 3 designated as affordable
- Meadowbrook Drive (The Preserve at Hunting Hill): Request to remove sidewalks from the Final Plan
- 30 Martin Street (Berkeley Business Center): Administrative approval to convert warehouse to 24 rental apartments
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council met for a special session to discuss confidential matters in executive session. The meeting focused on litigation updates and the acquisition and disposition of real property.
- Quarterly litigation update
- Discussion on acquisition of real property for public purposes
- Discussion on disposition of publicly held property
License Commission Meeting
The Board of Licensing reviewed applications for alcohol serving licenses. The board decided on a temporary license for a community feast and reviewed a Class BNT application.
- Approved temporary outdoor serving license for Fatima Holy Name Society for August 29-31, 2025
- Application for a Class BNT license from Vindu Foods LLC d/b/a Vindu at 356 Mendon Road
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council held a public hearing and approved an ordinance to increase water rates by 10% in 2026, 8.5% in 2027, and 6.5% in 2028. The council also reviewed design options for the Rawson Pond Dam and approved several event licenses.
- Approved water rate increases for 2026-2028, estimated at $30 more per billing period for average homeowners
- Reviewed Rawson Pond Dam replacement options ranging from $500,000 for removal to $3.2 million for a concrete spillway
- Approved a second-class victualling house license for Vindu Foods LLC at 356 Mendon Road
- Approved entertainment licenses for Fatima Holy Name Society, McCoy Fit, Ocean State Brewing Company, and British Motorcars of New England
- Tabled zoning ordinance #25-07 regarding Plat 053, Lot 1781 to September 17, 2025
Zoning Board Meeting
The Cumberland Zoning Board of Review will consider two petitions for dimensional variances. These requests involve relief from sign area limits and front yard setback requirements.
- Dimensional Variance for maximum sign area at 1460 Diamond Hill Road (Mandeville Sign Co.)
- Dimensional Variance for minimum front yard setback to build a house at 160 Pine Swamp Road (Joseph and Debra Lepore)
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council held a special meeting to vote on budget adjustments for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. Members also discussed concerns regarding a School Committee decision to add approximately $400,000 to the FY 26 budget for changing school start times.
- Approved Ordinance #25-06A to amend the General Fund Budget for Fiscal year 2024-2025
- Discussed a $40,000 increase in the Telecommunications budget for the dispatch center
POSTPONED Jun. 24, 2025 - Town Council Meeting
The special meeting scheduled for June 24, 2025, has been rescheduled to June 30, 2025. The agenda includes a second hearing and vote on an ordinance to amend the General Fund Budget for Fiscal year 2024-2025.
- Ordinance #25-06A: Amending the General Fund Budget for Fiscal year 2024-2025 (Second hearing and vote)
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council held a special meeting to enter executive session. The body discussed a tentative agreement with the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Cumberland Local 640, and the acquisition of real property for public purposes.
- Tentative Agreement with International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Cumberland Local 640
- Discussion of real property acquisition for public purposes
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council approved a new contract for the International Brotherhood of Police Officers, Local 640, and processed various tax abatements. The council also held a public hearing on amendments to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget.
- Police contract ratification with salary increases of 3%, 4%, and 4.5% over three years
- Approval of $5,303.08 in real estate abatements and $1,112.73 in tangible abatements
- Approval of $22,038.91 for 2024 and 2025 real estate supplements
- Change order for Tower Construction Corp not to exceed $4,733.43
- Annual $6,000 payment to Beacon Mutual Insurance Co. for Police and EMS administrator services
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council voted to establish the 2025/2026 operating budgets for the General Fund, Water Department, Sewer Department, and Recreation Fund. The council also approved several traffic safety ordinances and updated rules for the disposition of public property.
- Approved Ordinance #25-10B establishing the General Fund Operating Budget for FY 2025/2026
- Approved Ordinance #25-08 to create a four-way stop at Pollett and Meadowcrest streets
- Approved Ordinance #25-14 to add a stop sign on Alaska Street at New York Avenue
- Approved Ordinance #25-09 to include Habitat for Humanity in the disposition of public property
- Approved mobile food licenses for Championship Melt, Dr. Doughboy, BBQymas, Friskie Fries, and Bem Bom LLC
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of Licensing reviewed and voted on three applications for temporary event licenses. All three requests were approved by a 7-0 vote.
- Class F1 license for Cumberland Beagle Club Pig Roast on June 21, 2025, at 425 Nate Whipple Highway
- Class F1 license for Kingston Enterprises, LLC (Above and Beyond Bartending) for a wedding at The Lodge at Diamond Hill on August 23, 2025
- Temporary outdoor serving license for Lusitania Club Juventude annual feast from June 20 to June 22, 2025
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council voted to establish operating budgets for the General Fund, Water Department, Sewer Department, and Recreation Fund for Fiscal Year 2025/2026. The General Fund budget was approved with amendments affecting IT, tax assessor, and school funding.
- Ordinance #25-10: General Fund Budget approved with a $75,000 increase to school contribution, $10,000 increase for property revaluation, and $75,000 reduction to IT line item
- Ordinance #25-11A: Water Department Budget approved, including a deficit reduction surcharge to repay the general fund
- Ordinance #25-12: Sewer Department Budget approved
- Ordinance #25-13: Recreation Fund Budget approved
- Ordinance #25-06: Amendment to FY 2024-2025 General Fund Budget tabled until June 18, 2025
Special Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council held a special meeting to hold public hearings on four operating-budget ordinances for fiscal year 2025/2026. The hearings covered the General Fund, Water Department, Sewer Department, and Recreation Fund. No public comments were received on any ordinance.
- FY2025/2026 General Fund budget ordinance #25-10, including $350,000 fund balance and $700,000 revenue stabilization
- FY2025/2026 Water Department budget ordinance #25-11, with ~$700,000 increase and $400,000/year deficit-reduction plan
- FY2025/2026 Sewer Department budget ordinance #25-12, transitioning to enterprise fund and noting $2.3M Berkeley project lost federal funding
- FY2025/2026 Recreation Fund budget ordinance #25-13, now run through general fund
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council approved a roadway safety plan and authorized a grant application for park revitalization. The body also voted on several business licenses and a fire alarm system contract change order.
- Adopted the Cumberland, RI Safe Streets for All Safety Action Plan
- Authorized a Community Development Block Grant application up to $1,000,000 for Valley Falls Heritage Park
- Approved a $24,956.76 change order for a fire alarm system at 1512 Mendon Road EMS Station
- Approved entertainment license for Arnold Mills July 4th Parade and Road Race
- Denied a rental fee reduction request for the Hotel for Homeless Dogs at The Lodge at Diamond Hill
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council met for a special session primarily to conduct an executive session. The council voted 5/0 to seal the minutes of the meeting.
- Executive session discussion on the acquisition, lease, or disposition of real property
- Executive session discussion regarding potential litigation
- Executive session discussion regarding a grievance filed under a collective bargaining agreement
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council approved an ordinance raising the tax rate cap above 3% to accommodate school funding requests, adding a sunset clause of May 1, 2026. The council also appointed a new Water Superintendent and Director of Public Works, approved several business licenses, and tabled resolutions on a fire alarm change order and a safety action plan.
- Passed ordinance #25-05A to amend the tax rate cap, allowing tax increase exceeding 3%, with a 5-2 vote (Bradley and Metivier nay)
- Appointed Romeo Mendes as Director of Public Works (vote 6-1)
- Approved a kennel license for Les Bebes Frenchies, LLC at 195 Wrentham Road, subject to animal control inspection
- Tabled resolution R-25-29 for a fire alarm system change order at 1512 Mendon Road EMS station, not to exceed $24,956.76
- Presented zoning ordinance #25-07 regarding Assessor's Plat 053, Lot 1781 and hydroelectric facilities, referred to subcommittee
CANCELED May 7, 2025 - Special Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council special meeting scheduled for May 7, 2025, was canceled. The agenda had included an executive session to discuss pending litigation. No votes or public decisions were made.
- Meeting canceled
- Executive session scheduled for pending litigation (R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(2))
- Call to order and adjournment were the only other agenda items
Special Town Council Meeting
This special meeting consisted entirely of procedural actions: a unanimous vote to enter executive session to discuss pending litigation (R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(2)), a motion to seal those minutes, and adjournment. No public business was conducted or decided.
- Unanimous 6-0 vote to go into executive session for pending litigation
- Unanimous 6-0 vote to seal executive session minutes
- Meeting lasted 21 minutes with no public agenda items
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council heard a presentation on Cumberland's rising housing costs and the potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs). The body also held a public hearing regarding an ordinance to amend the town's self-imposed tax rate constraints.
- Planning Department report: Median home value reached $392,255 in 2023
- Public hearing for Ordinance #25-05 to amend the tax rate ordinance
- Approval of mobile food licenses for The Grub Guru and Potato Potato
- Entertainment license approved for wedding at Cumberland Monastery (1464 Diamond Hill Road)
- Entertainment license approved for The Lodge at Diamond Hill (4097 Diamond Hill Road)
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council approved the consent agenda, including minutes and mobile food licenses, and voted on several items. Key actions include adopting a fee schedule for The Lodge at Diamond Hill Park with resident/non-resident rates, approving an EMS equipment purchase of temperature-controlled coolers for $18,249.50, and authorizing a janitorial supply contract with Cintas Corporation up to $25,000. A tax rate ordinance was tabled until April 16, and other resolutions were referred to subcommittees.
- Approved ordinance #25-04B establishing fee schedule for The Lodge at Diamond Hill Park (resident vs. non-resident, prime/non-prime rates).
- Approved R-25-22 to purchase three temperature-controlled coolers for EMS for $18,249.50 (grant-funded).
- Approved R-25-23 unit pricing agreement with Cintas Corporation for janitorial supplies not to exceed $25,000.
- Approved R-25-21 amending Blackstone River Theatre lease to lower insurance liability coverage to $1M.
- Tabled ordinance #25-05 (tax rate amendment) until April 16, 2025.
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council met for a special session to discuss pending litigation. The council voted to enter executive session and to seal the minutes of the meeting.
- Executive session to discuss pending litigation per R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(2)
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council approved a resolution opposing a proposed hydroelectric development (FERC P-15370) at the Manville Landing site on the Blackstone River. They tabled an ordinance establishing fee schedules for The Lodge at Diamond Hill Park until April 2 for further discussion. The council received a school budget update showing a requested $1,700,000 increase from the town (3.39%), and unanimously approved the appointment of Mackenzie Malloy as Deputy Parks and Recreation Director.
- School budget update: $1,700,000 ask from town (3.39% increase), separate from bond payment, with $1.3M from fund balance proposed.
- Ordinance #25-04A (fee schedule for The Lodge at Diamond Hill Park) tabled to April 2, 2025.
- Resolution R-25-19 approved unanimously opposing FERC preliminary application P-15370 for hydro development at Manville Landing.
- Appointment of Mackenzie Malloy as Deputy Parks and Recreation Director approved unanimously.
- Phantom Fireworks hawker and holiday sales licenses approved (6-1) for June 26–July 5 at 1170 Mendon Road.
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council received the 2024 annual audit presentation from CBIZ, noting a $2M decrease in total fund balance and an unassigned fund balance of $11.9 million (13.6% of operating budget). The Council approved a first-class victualling license for Ocean State Brewing Company d/b/a Phantom Farms Brewing to allow food service, and renewed numerous entertainment, firearms, and hawker licenses for 2025-2026. Resolutions supporting state bills on APRA requests and general revenue sharing were also passed.
- Audit report: total fund balance decreased $2M, unassigned fund balance $11.9M, Police pension funded at 63%
- Victualling license approved for Phantom Farms Brewing (30 Martin St) to serve food as part of brewpub license
- Entertainment license renewals for 21 venues including LaFamilia, Blackstone River Theatre, Phantom Farms
- Climate resilience public workshop announced for March 18 at Cumberland Public Library
- Resolutions C-25-09 (supporting H 5457 on APRA requests) and C-25-10 (supporting restoration of General Revenue Sharing) approved
License Commission Meeting
The Board of Licensing reviewed and voted on liquor license applications for local businesses and event series. The board also received initial applications for two other restaurants to advertise for licenses.
- Approved Class B Non-Transferable license for Ocean State Brewing Company d/b/a Phantom Farms Brewing at 30 Martin Street
- Approved multiple one-day Class F-1 Liquor Licenses for Good Vibes Beverage LLC for events at Diamond Hill Park
- Received Class B Non-Transferable license applications for El Rodeo at 405 Mendon Road
- Received Class B Non-Transferable license application for Everybody’s Favorite Family Restaurant at 1368 Mendon Road
Special Town Council Meeting
The Town Council met for a special session to discuss potential litigation. The council voted to enter executive session and seal the minutes of the meeting.
- Executive session to discuss potential litigation per R.I.G.L. §42-46-5(a)(2)
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council held a public hearing and voted 7-0 to approve a kennel license for Happy Pets at Home at 75 Wrentham Road, following a December incident where a small dog was attacked by larger dogs. The applicant changed protocols to separate dogs by size. The council also approved the consent agenda, received a financial report on waste removal being over budget, and heard a School Committee update on enrollment, star ratings, and construction timelines.
- Approved kennel license for Happy Pets at Home after public hearing (7-0 vote)
- Approved consent agenda including five mobile food licenses (Meat Sweats RI, AP Food Services, Kona Ice, Buggd out Bbq, Artisan Bites)
- School Committee report: district enrollment 5,077 (down one); overall four-star rating; high school increased two stars; 2025-2026 calendar approved with full February and April breaks
- Financial report for January 2025 noted waste removal over budget, to be reviewed by Finance Director
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of License Commissioners held public hearings and unanimously approved three liquor license applications: a transfer of a Class BV license to Juncal Mexican Grill & Bar, a new Class B Non-Transferable license for Furna Restaurant, and a new Class BV Limited License for Angelo's Palace Pizza Express. A presentation for a new Class B license for Phantom Farms Brewing was also introduced.
- Approved transfer of Class BV license to Sonomex Corp d/b/a Juncal Mexican Grill & Bar, 2352 Mendon Road
- Approved new Class B Non-Transferable license for Furna Restaurant Inc., 422 High Street
- Approved new Class BV Limited License (beer/wine) for APP Express Inc. d/b/a Angelo's Palace Pizza Express, 2339 Diamond Hill Road
- Presented application for Class B Non-Transferable license for Ocean State Brewing Co. d/b/a Phantom Farms Brewing, 30 Martin Street
- All votes were unanimous (7-0)
Town Council Meeting
The Town Council and School Committee held a joint meeting to discuss preliminary three-year budget forecasts and state aid. Key issues included a $400,000 reduction in state aid due to a Pre-K student double-counting error by the state, and projected enrollment growth of about 220 students over three years. The school department anticipates using $1.7-2.2 million from its fund balance and budgeting for 3% union contract increases and 4% transportation cost increases. Mayor Mutter presented on the town's financial outlook, including debt service and tax levy.
- State aid reduced from $1.9M to $1.6M due to Pre-K student double-count error
- School expects to use $1.7-2.2M of FY2023 fund balance this year
- Enrollment projected to grow by approximately 220 students over three years
- Union contracts in second year with 3% increases budgeted; transportation locked at 4%
- Mayor presented on financial needs, fund balance, debt service, and tax levy
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of License Commissioners met to review applications for liquor licenses. The board considered a license transfer and two new license requests for local businesses.
- Class BV license transfer from LMP Enterprises LLC to Sonomex Corporation (Juncal Mexican Grill & Bar) at 2352 Mendon Road
- Class B Non-Transferable license application from Furna Restaurant Inc at 422 High Street
- BVL License (Beer & Wine Only) application from APP Express, Inc. (Angelo’s Palace Pizza Express) at 2339 Diamond Hill Road
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council voted to approve a resolution requesting the General Assembly to amend state ADU legislation, passed a zoning amendment allowing subdivision of lots with multiple residences by special use permit, and adopted ordinances reclassifying a finance position and adjusting salary ranges for executive staff. They also discussed traffic safety concerns on Bear Hill Road but took no action, and tabled a kennel license and pending license renewals.
- Resolution R-25-01 requesting General Assembly to amend accessory dwelling unit law (approved 7-0)
- Zoning Ordinance 24-26A permitting subdivision of lots with multiple residences by special use permit (approved 6-1)
- Ordinance 25-01 moving Accounts Payable Administrator to executive staff (approved 6-1)
- Ordinance 25-02A amending salary ranges for executive staff, including DPW Director and Senior Center Director (approved 6-1)
- Discussion on traffic/pedestrian safety on Bear Hill Road with no formal action taken
License Commission Meeting
The Cumberland Board of License Commissioners met and approved extending pending 2024-2025 liquor license renewals to February 5, 2025. An application for a Class B Non-Transferable license from Rogue Island Local Kitchen and Bar was withdrawn. The meeting was otherwise procedural.
- Application by The Rogue Island Group LLC d/b/a Rogue Island Local Kitchen and Bar for a Class B Non-Transferable license at 405 Mendon Road was withdrawn
- Pending 2024-2025 liquor license renewals extended to February 5, 2025, by a 5-0 vote
Town Council Meeting
The Cumberland Town Council met on January 15, 2025, and unanimously approved multiple stop sign ordinances, reappointed several board members, and tabled some appointments and ordinances until February 5, 2025. The meeting also included reports from the School Committee and department updates.
- Approved ordinance for stop signs at Quail St & Weeks St, Countryside Dr & Honeywell Ln, Highland Ave & Williams St, Hiller Rd & Ronald Ave, Hamilton St & Lonsdale Farm Rd, and Abbott St & High St
- Reappointed Dave Lamoureux and Andrea Trottier to the Juvenile Hearing Board
- Reappointed Diane Emerson and Chris Alger to the Zoning Board of Review
- Reappointed Joyce Polucha, Nancy Chaput, and Will Enestvedt to the Library Board of Trustees
- Extended 2024-2025 liquor license renewals until February 5, 2025
Zoning Board Meeting
The Cumberland Zoning Board approved a special use permit for Steven Jaiman to operate a banquet hall rental at 121 Mendon Road, finding the use similar in type and intensity to a restaurant. The board also re-elected its same officers for 2025. Conditions include no alcohol, Fire Department capacity review, and indoor-only activities.
- Special use permit granted for banquet hall at 121 Mendon Road (Plat 012, Lot 0002, Zone I-1)
- Use found similar to a restaurant under Section 4-7(a) of zoning code
- Conditions: no alcohol, Fire Department must approve capacity, activities indoors only
- Board re-elected John McCoy (Chair) and other officers unanimously
- Meeting lasted 31 minutes, adjourned at 7:34 p.m.