Johnston public meetings in 2023

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met and approved two petitions for dimensional variances. Both were approved unanimously. No old business was discussed.

• Approved variance for John and Lori Pezzullo at 175 Downing Drive to add a barn/cabana near the pool.
• Approved variance for Giana and Michael Camera at 6 Elwin Avenue to expand the dwelling and add a second floor.

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on December 14, 2023, and voted to continue a decision on a special use permit for a 19 MW solar field on Winsor Avenue to the January 25, 2024 meeting. The board also approved minutes from previous meetings and closed public comment on the matter.

• Petition of Johnston Winsor III, LLC for a special use permit to develop a 19 MW solar field on a 160+ acre parcel at 118 Winsor Avenue (AP 59 Lot 15, zoned R-40) continued to January 25, 2024
• Minutes from previous meetings (Exhibits A through E) and a letter from Smithfield accepted into record
• Motion to close arguments and public comments on the solar field petition approved

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will discuss several petitions for zone changes and review various business operating licenses. The agenda also includes a resolution for surveying services at Woodlake Park and an update on ARPA fund expenditures.

• Zone change petition for 198 Shun Pike from R-40 to Planned District
• Restaurant license for Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers at 1386 Atwood Avenue
• Resolution 2023-54 regarding surveying services for Woodlake Park baseball fields expansion
• Ordinance 2023-17 to regulate the size of commercial buildings
• Update on ARPA Fund expenditures and DiPrete Engineering Study at Memorial Park

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board will hold public hearings on grant applications for park improvements at Wood Lake, Pocasset Reserve, Sherman Field, and Memorial Park. The board will also consider an advisory opinion on rezoning parcels near Starr Street from residential to light industrial, and a public hearing on a new elementary school at 1715 Atwood Avenue. Old business includes a proposed 55+ housing development at The Gateway and a KFC drive-thru at 1477 Atwood Avenue.

• Public hearing on RIDEM Recreation grants for Wood Lake/Scituate Avenue, Pocasset Reserve, Sherman Field, and Memorial Park Walking Path
• Advisory opinion on rezoning AP 5 Lots 232, 231, 238, 263, 262, and 234 at 55 Starr St. from R-15 to IL Industrial Light
• Public hearing for a new elementary school at 1715 Atwood Avenue (AP 47 Lots 8 and 9)
• Public hearing for a drive-thru at 1601 Hartford Avenue (Quick-Fuel Mart)
• Advisory opinion on zoning ordinance amendment to create Village Center standards in B-1 and B-2 zones

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on November 30, 2023, and approved three petitions: a new single-family dwelling on Norma Street, a 20x40 accessory dwelling unit addition at 22 Rockcrest Lane, and a side-yard dimensional variance for an addition at 14 South Fairview Street. No old business was discussed.

• Petition of Compass Properties, LLC for construction of a single-family dwelling on Norma Street (AP 40 Lot 205 & 206) — approved
• Petition of Anthony R. Verduchi, Jr. & Tami M. Verduchi for a 20x40 accessory dwelling unit addition at 22 Rockcrest Lane (AP 5 Lot 377) — approved
• Petition of Luis Rivera for a side-yard dimensional variance for an addition at 14 South Fairview Street (AP 12 Lot 170) — approved

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council is holding a special meeting to discuss a grant application for park renovations. The body will also consider a change order for a storage building project.

• Public hearing on Green Space Recreation Development and Acquisition Grant for Johnston War Memorial Park walking trail/path renovations
• Resolution 2023-52: Authorizing grant application for walking path renovations using 20% matching funds
• Resolution 2023-53: Authorizing a change order to add a water and sewer system to the Department of Planning and Public Services Storage Building project

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will hold public hearings on ordinances regarding cannabis retail sales and drive-through business standards. The body is also reviewing multiple business licenses, liquor license renewals, and infrastructure repair agreements.

• Ordinance 2023-16: Retail sales of Cannabis and standards for drive-through businesses
• Resolution 2023-48: Agreement for repair of Shun Pike roadway
• Resolution 2023-51: Bid for improvements to Johnston War Memorial Park playground
• Resolution 2023-49: Change order for engineering services for Pocasset Pond Dam repair
• Licenses for Raising Cane’s (1386 Atwood Avenue) and Bar Lino (1395 Atwood Avenue)

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board approved two minor subdivisions (90 Pine Hill Avenue and Meadowlands), a 12-unit duplex master plan at 1725 Plainfield Pike, and a warehouse master plan extension for Northpoint Stonehill. They continued a rezoning request for Starr Street to next month and discussed draft revisions to land development and zoning regulations to conform with state law.

• PB 23-17: Minor subdivision to create 2 lots at 90 Pine Hill Avenue (AP 49 Lot 42), applicant Helping Hands Community Partners — approved
• PB 23-40: Minor subdivision to create 5 lots opposite 1329 Central Pike (AP 43 Lot 91), applicant Meadowlands Investment LLC — approved
• PB 23-41: Advisory opinion on rezoning AP 5 Lots 232, 231, 238, 263, 262, 234 from R-15 to IL Industrial Light at 55 Starr St. — continued to next month
• PB 23-04: Master plan for 12 duplex owner-occupied units at 1725 Plainfield Pike, zoned R-7, applicant Plainfield Partners LLC — approved with staff report conditions
• PB 21-42: Extension of master plan approval for warehouse off Stonehill Drive (AP 44 Lot 66), applicant Northpoint Development — approved

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on November 2, 2023, and continued all business to future meetings. The only substantive item was a continued petition for a special use permit to develop a 19 MW solar field on a 160-acre parcel at 118 Winsor Avenue. No decisions were made; the board voted to continue the solar petition to December 14, 2023.

• Continued petition for 19 MW solar field at 118 Winsor Avenue, AP 59 Lot 15, zoned R-40
• Motion to continue solar permit hearing to December 14, 2023
• Minutes from September 28, 2023 meeting continued to November 2, 2023
• Meeting adjourned at 9:50 PM

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on October 26, 2023, and approved minutes from previous meetings. They approved a petition to expand a non-conforming daycare at 1269 Plainfield Street, continued a petition for a side yard variance at 14 South Fairview Street, and withdrew a petition to legalize a pergola at 73 Simmonsville Avenue. Another petition for an addition at 1073 Atwood Avenue was continued to May 30, 2024.

• Approved expansion of daycare at 1269 Plainfield Street (OTR Realty LLC) with variances, neighbor's fence to be negotiated
• Continued petition for side yard variance at 14 South Fairview Street (Luis Rivera) to November 30, 2023
• Withdrawn petition to legalize 200 sq ft pergola at 73 Simmonsville Avenue (Juan Zayas); owner will move it 5 feet from fence and apply for permit
• Continued petition for rear addition at 1073 Atwood Avenue (Hilda Paz Izzaguirre) to May 30, 2024

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council granted several business and liquor licenses and approved the purchase of three network servers for the town's IT network. The body also discussed safety issues regarding the Market Basket truck entrance and referred several zoning petitions to the Planning Board.

• Resolution 2023-45: Awarded bid for the purchase of 3 Network Servers for the Town’s IT Network
• Liquor licenses granted to The Punjab (1565 Plainfield Pike) and A Taste of Italy (1302 Atwood Avenue)
• Business operating licenses granted to CA Risk Consultants, DPM Construction, The Financial Coach, and DKRI Graphics
• Petition 2023-CP-160: Referred to Planning Board for zone change of Plat 5, Lots 213, 232, 234, 238, 262 & 263 from R-20 to Industrial-I-L
• Petition 2023-CP-158: Referred to Police, Fire and Public Works for a speed bump on Sweet Hill Drive

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council held a special meeting on October 4, 2023, to hear findings from PFM Group Consulting, LLC on a financial and operational assessment of the Johnston School Department. Areas of concern and recommendations were discussed, and the School Department has begun working with an intermediary consultant. The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

• PFM Group Consulting, LLC presented findings of a financial and operational analysis of the Johnston School Department
• Areas of concern were highlighted and recommendations were reviewed
• School Department has begun working with an intermediary consultant
• Council and audience asked questions after the presentation
• Meeting adjourned by motion, vote 5-0

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board held its regular meeting on October 3, 2023, approving several items. The board approved a master plan for The Gateway, a proposed 21-unit housing development for residents 55 and over, with a recommendation for rezoning from R-40 to Planned District. It also approved a special use permit and master plan for a Kentucky Fried Chicken drive-through at 1477 Atwood Avenue. The board continued a minor subdivision application for 54, 58 & 60 Jackson Avenue because the applicant was not present, and discussed draft revisions to land development regulations and zoning ordinances to conform with state law.

• Approved The Gateway master plan: 21 units of 55+ housing, rezoning AP 42 Lots 31, 104, 105 from R-40 to Planned District, west of Victoria Street, south of Putnam Pike, east of I-295
• Approved KFC special use permit and master plan for drive-through at 1477 Atwood Avenue (AP 20 Lots 10 and 11), applicant D.E. Foods, LLC
• Continued PB 23-31: minor subdivision to create three lots at 54, 58 & 60 Jackson Avenue (AP 16 Lots 251 and 254), applicant Premium Home Builders LLC, applicant absent
• Discussed draft revisions to Land Development and Subdivision Regulations (PB 23-34) and Zoning Ordinance (PB 23-35) to conform with revised state law
• Discussed the Johnston Comprehensive Plan (PB 22-57)

Special Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on September 28, 2023, and considered a single new business item: a special use permit for a 19 MW solar field on a 160-acre parcel at 118 Winsor Avenue. The board voted unanimously to continue the petition to the November 2, 2023 meeting. No other business was discussed.

• Petition of Johnston Winsor III, LLC for a special use permit to develop a 19 MW solar field at 118 Winsor Avenue (AP 59 Lot 15, zoned R-40)
• Motion to continue the petition to November 2, 2023, approved by voice vote

Special Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on September 21, 2023, and voted on several petitions for variances and special use permits. They approved a use variance for expanded parking at 136 Simmonsville Avenue, approved dimensional relief for additions at 20 Almond Drive, 39 Union Avenue, and 18 Weaver Road, and continued two cases (73 Simmonsville Avenue and 1073 Atwood Avenue) to a later date. The meeting was adjourned at 8:04 PM.

• Approved use variance for parking expansion at 136 Simmonsville Avenue (Vincent Russo Jr.) with five stipulations
• Continued case for legalizing a 200 sq ft pergola/covered patio at 73 Simmonsville Avenue (Juan Zayas)
• Approved dimensional relief for home addition at 20 Almond Drive (Raymond and Atny Martin)
• Approved dimensional relief for addition at 39 Union Avenue (Shahzad Yaqoob)
• Approved dimensional relief for detached two-car garage at 18 Weaver Road (George and Charlena A. Clark)

Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council held a special meeting to enter executive session. The session focused on collective bargaining negotiations between the Town of Johnston and the Rhode Island Council 94, AFSCME, AFL-CIO for Local Union 1491.

• Executive session regarding collective bargaining with Johnston Town Employees Local Union 1491
• Vote to seal the minutes of the September 11, 2023 Executive Session

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council voted 3-0 to read Ordinance 2023-16, which would amend zoning to allow retail cannabis sales and set standards for drive-through businesses, and referred it to the Planning Board for an advisory opinion. The Council also adopted a new union contract with Town Employees Local Union 1491, including a base pay bump and summer hours. A zone change petition for 198 Shun Pike remains pending Planning Board review.

• Ordinance 2023-16: allows retail cannabis sales and drive-through business standards, referred to Planning Board
• Resolution 2023-42: ratified agreement with RI Council 94 AFSCME Local 1491, including base pay increase and summer hours
• Resolution 2023-44: authorized extended engineering services for Johnston War Memorial Park improvements
• Petition 2023-CP-149: zone change for Sunn Builders (Plat 42, Lots 31, 104, 105) from R-40 to Planned District, referred to Planning Board
• Ordinance 2023-15: adopted no parking on southbound side of Trieste Street

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board will hold a regular meeting on September 5, 2023, at 6:00 PM. The agenda includes old business items such as a preliminary plan for a 28-unit condo development at 1767 Atwood Avenue, a minor subdivision at 54, 58 & 60 Jackson Avenue, and a site plan review for renovations and a spray pad at Johnston Memorial Park. New business includes draft revisions to land development regulations and zoning ordinances to conform with state law, as well as amendments to allow cannabis retail and set standards for drive-through special use permits. The board will also receive an update on the Johnston Comprehensive Plan.

• PB 22-61: Preliminary plan for 28 condo units at 1767 Atwood Avenue (AP 47 Lot 38, R-7 zoning)
• PB 23-31: Minor subdivision to create three lots at 54, 58 & 60 Jackson Avenue (AP 16 Lots 251 and 254) by Premium Home Builders LLC
• PB 23-26: Site plan review for Johnston Memorial Park renovations, spray pad, and maintenance facility at 1583 Hartford Avenue (AP 53 Lots 24, 25, 71, 72)
• PB 23-36: Zoning ordinance amendments to allow cannabis retail and set standards for drive-through special use permits
• PB 22-57: Update on the Johnston Comprehensive Plan

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council met to vote on several appointments and administrative resolutions. The council approved an amendment to the purchase and sales agreement for the Calef School with Tri-County Community Action Agency.

• Resolution 2023-41: Approved amendment to the sale of Calef School to Tri-County Community Action Agency
• Appointment of Steven Mandarelli to the Johnston Smithfield Juvenile Hearing Board
• Annual renewal of Town Bingo Licenses for 2023-2024
• Appointment of Karen Clark to the District 5 Charter Review Commission
• Appointment of Jacqueline Grasso to the District 5 Senior Citizens Advisory Board

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council adopted a resolution asking the RI General Assembly to authorize tax credits for resident-owners aged 65 and older. The body also approved several business licenses, road improvements, and a zoning change for a senior housing development.

• Resolution 2023-36: Request for state legislation to authorize real property tax credits for residents 65+
• Ordinance 2023-13: Zone change from R-20 to R-7 for 1725 Plainfield Pike for a 55+ community (max 30 units)
• Resolution 2023-35: Agreement for pavement and sidewalk improvements on Hartford Avenue from Killingly Street to Atwood Avenue
• Resolution 2023-37: Agreement with RI Infrastructure Bank for low interest septic system/cesspool repair loans
• Ordinance 2023-14: Abandonment of portions of Stella St, Maria St, Middleton St, and Celia St

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review met on July 27, 2023, and voted on several petitions. They approved a use variance for commercial storage at 1517 Atwood Avenue, a dimensional variance for a garage and hobby shop at 11 Carriage Way, a dimensional variance for lot reduction at 30 Irons Avenue, and a special use permit for equipment rental at 2200 Hartford Avenue. A solar array petition at 112 Winsor Avenue was continued to September 28.

• Approved use variance for commercial arcade equipment storage at 1517 Atwood Avenue (AP 20 Lot 209)
• Approved dimensional variance for attached garage and accessory structure at 11 Carriage Way (AP 48 Lot 582)
• Approved dimensional variance to reduce lot square footage at 30 Irons Avenue (AP 35 Lot 27)
• Approved special use permit for large equipment rental and storage at 2200 Hartford Avenue (AP 54 Lot 53)
• Continued solar array petition for 112 Winsor Avenue (AP 59 Lot 15) to September 28

Town Council Meeting with School Comm.

The Town Council will consider resolutions authorizing third-party administrative services for police and firefighter on-duty injuries, and hold public hearings on ordinances clarifying pothole/sprinkler damage claims and setting property tax rates. Several zone-change petitions remain pending Planning Board review.

• Resolution 2023-31: third-party admin services for injured police officers
• Resolution 2023-32: third-party admin services for injured firefighters
• Ordinance 2023-8: amends claims rules for pothole and sprinkler damage
• Ordinance 2023-10: orders property tax assessment and collection
• Appointments to Charter Review Commission for Districts 1-3, 5, and at-large

Special Town Council Meeting with School Comm.

The Johnston Town Council held a special budget hearing to review and adopt the town's governmental budget, personnel classification, and tax levy. The council also addressed property tax assessments and school department oversight.

• Adopted Ordinance 2023-9 appropriating $129,081,852 for the Town Governmental Budget
• Read Ordinance 2023-10 regarding property tax and excise tax assessment and collection
• Read Ordinance 2023-11 amending tax classifications to comply with state law
• Adopted Resolution 2023-30 authorizing interim mayoral oversight of Johnston School Department financial and business operations

Special Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board will hold a public hearing on the FY 2022 Community Development Block Grant Program and consider several land-use items: a major subdivision at 2113 Hartford Avenue, two zoning map amendments (8 Putnam Pike and 1725 Plainfield Pike), a master plan for a new elementary school behind 1651 Atwood Avenue, and a review of the Comprehensive Plan. The board may also vote on comments to the Smithfield Planning Board regarding a Putnam Pike mixed-use development.

• Public Hearing on FY 2022 Community Development Block Grant Program
• PB 23-06 – Sitwell Park, LLC – Major subdivision to create four lots at 2113 Hartford Avenue (B-3 zone)
• PB 23-13 – Zoning Map Amendment Advisory Opinion – Rezone AP 38 Lot 164 from R-15 to B-2 behind 8 Putnam Pike
• PB 23-14 – Zoning Map Amendment – Rezone AP 26 Lots 77, 85, 111, 149 from R-20 to R-7 at 1725 Plainfield Pike
• PB 23-15 – Johnston Elementary School – Master Plan for Major Land Development behind 1651 Atwood Avenue

Town Council Meeting with School Comm.

The Johnston Town Council will review several infrastructure resolutions, including dam repairs and a new financial management system. The body will also process numerous business and liquor license applications and hold public hearings on zoning and development ordinances.

• Resolutions for engineering design services to repair Oak Swamp Dam and Pocasset Pond Dam
• Resolution to purchase 3 Automatic License Plate Recognition Cameras
• Resolution to install a splash pad at Johnston War Memorial Park
• Public hearing for Ordinance 2023-5 to change zoning from R-40 to I-Industrial for Plat 33, Lots 27 & 84
• Petition for the abandonment of portions of Stella St, Maria St, Middleton St, and Celia St

*CANCELLED* Regular Planning Board Meeting

The regular meeting of the Johnston Planning Board scheduled for June 6, 2023, has been cancelled. The agenda included a public hearing on the FY 2022 Community Development Block Grant, several subdivision and zoning applications, and a master plan for a new elementary school.

• Public Hearing on FY 2022 Community Development Block Grant Program
• PB 23-06 – Sitwell Park, LLC – Major Subdivision to create four lots at 2113 Hartford Avenue
• PB 23-13 – Zoning Map Amendment from R-15 to B-2 behind 8 Putnam Pike
• PB 23-14 – Zoning Map Amendment from R-20 to R-7 at 1725 Plainfield Pike
• PB 23-15 – Johnston Elementary School Master Plan behind 1651 Atwood Avenue

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review will hold its regular monthly meeting on May 25, 2023, at 6:30 PM at the Johnston Senior Center. The board will consider four petitions: two old business items (a signage variance for Coastal1 Credit Union and a special use permit/variance for Paul Giarusso) and two new business items (a use variance for Vincent Russo and a dimensional variance for Divine Investments). The agenda also includes roll call, approval of April minutes, and adjournment.

• Coastal1 Credit Union seeks dimensional variance for more than allowed wall signage at 1463 Atwood Avenue (AP 20 Lot 170, B-2)
• Paul Giarusso requests special use permit and dimensional variances for relief from merger at 41 Tartaglia Street (AP 27 Lot 60, R-20)
• Vincent Russo, Jr. seeks use variance to allow parking at 136 Simmonsville Avenue (AP 29 Lot 67, R-20 and R-40)
• Divine Investments, Inc. requests dimensional variance to construct single family dwelling at 0 Theresa Avenue (AP 11 Lot 579, R-15)

*Cancelled* Special Town Council Meeting with School Comm.

This meeting was cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for June 12, 2023. No business was conducted or discussed.

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Planning Board will review several land development applications including a subdivision request at 2113 Hartford Avenue and a master plan for Johnston Elementary School. The meeting also includes discussions on zoning map amendments and the Johnston Comprehensive Plan.

• PB 23-06: Subdivision request for four lots at 2113 Hartford Avenue (Sitwell Park, LLC)
• PB 23-13: Rezoning advisory opinion behind 8 Putnam Pike from R-15 to B-2
• PB 23-14: Rezoning request for 1725 Plainfield Pike from R-20 to R-7
• PB 23-15: Master Plan for major land development at Johnston Elementary School behind 1651 Atwood Avenue
• PB 23-07: Review of Putnam Pike Mixed Use Development traffic impact analysis

Special Town Council Meeting with School Comm.

The Johnston Town Council and School Committee are holding a special joint meeting to receive a presentation from S.L.A.M. and Colliers on updates to the School Construction Projects. The meeting includes the pledge of allegiance, roll call, the presentation with discussion, and adjournment. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Presentation and discussion on School Construction Projects by S.L.A.M. and Colliers
• Joint special meeting of Town Council and School Committee
• Meeting held at N.A. Ferri Middle School Library, 10 Memorial Avenue, Johnston, RI

Town Council Meeting

The Town Council will consider several zone change petitions, including one for 198 Shun Pike from R-40 to Planned District, and others for properties on Putnam Pike and Plainfield Pike. The council will also vote on resolutions authorizing agreements with the police chief and deputy chief, and an upgrade to the police department's entry access system. Several business license applications and renewals are on the agenda, along with a request for a speed calming device on Waveland Street.

• Zone change petition for 198 Shun Pike (Plat 33, Lot 63) from R-40 to Planned District
• Zone change petition for 8 Putnam Pike (Plat 38, Lot 164) from R-15 to B-2
• Zone change petition for 1725 Plainfield Pike (Plat 26, Lots 77, 85, 111 & 149) from R-20 to R-7
• Resolution 2023-19 ratifying agreement with Chief of Police Mark A. Vieira
• Resolution 2023-21 awarding bid for upgrade to Entry Access System at Police Headquarters

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council is holding a special meeting to enter executive session under state open meetings law. The sole substantive items are discussion and potential action on employment agreements for the Chief of Police and Deputy Chief of Police. The meeting will then return to open session to seal minutes and adjourn.

• Executive session discussion on employment agreement between the Town and Chief of Police Mark Vieira
• Executive session discussion on employment agreement between the Town and Deputy Chief of Police Matthew LeDuc
• Return to open session for sealing of minutes and adjournment

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review will hold its regular monthly meeting on April 27, 2023. The board will consider three petitions: a dimensional variance for wall signage at 1463 Atwood Avenue, a dimensional variance for an accessory structure at 27 West Scenic View Drive, and a special use permit for automobile sales at 559 Killingly Street. The meeting also includes roll call, approval of prior minutes, and adjournment.

• Petition of Coastal1 Credit Union for dimensional variance for wall signage at 1463 Atwood Avenue (AP 20 Lot 170, zoned B-2)
• Petition of Katlyn Cleverdon Lopresti and Kyle Lopresti for dimensional variance to add an accessory structure at 27 West Scenic View Drive (AP 46 Lot 141, zoned R-40)
• Petition of Johnston Auto Sales LLC for special use permit for automobile sales in an open lot at 559 Killingly Street (AP 13 Lot 396, zoned B-2)

Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council will consider several major items, including a resolution to sell the George C. Calef School to Tri County Community Action Agency, a zone change for 198 Shun Pike from R-40 to Planned District, and a resolution to allow a farmer's market on town property. The council will also hold public hearings on two zoning map amendments and vote on multiple business licenses and other resolutions.

• Resolution 2023-13: Authorizing sale of George C. Calef School at 7 Waveland Street to Tri County Community Action Agency
• 2022-CP-47: Zone change for 198 Shun Pike from R-40 to Planned District (referred to Planning Board)
• Resolution 2023-12: Authorizing use of town public property for a farmer's market
• Ordinance 2023-5: Public hearing on zoning change for Plat 33, Lots 27 & 84 from R-40 to I-Industrial
• Resolution 2023-16: Awarding bid for engineering services at Johnston War Memorial Park renovations

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council is holding a special meeting to enter executive session under Rhode Island Open Meetings Law to discuss and possibly vote on new settlement agreements related to the national opioid crisis. The meeting will take place at the Johnston Municipal Court, and the council will return to open session to seal minutes and adjourn.

• Executive session discussion and possible vote on opioid litigation settlement agreements
• Meeting at Johnston Municipal Court, 1600 Atwood Avenue
• Return to open session for sealing of minutes and adjournment

Special Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board held a special meeting on June 20, 2023, approving several land-use applications and discussing the FY 2022 Community Development Block Grant program. The board approved a preliminary subdivision plan for Sitwell Park, LLC, two zoning map amendments, and a master plan for a new elementary school. It also reviewed the Comprehensive Plan and deferred a mixed-use development comment to a future meeting.

• Approved PB 23-06: Sitwell Park, LLC preliminary plan for 4 lots at 2113 Hartford Avenue (AP 54 Lot 80, B-3 zoning)
• Approved PB 23-13: Zoning map amendment behind 8 Putnam Pike from R-15 to B-2 (AP 38 Lot 164)
• Approved PB 23-14: Zoning map amendment at 1725 Plainfield Pike from R-20 to R-7 (AP 26 Lots 77, 85, 111, 149)
• Approved PB 23-15: Master plan for Johnston Elementary School behind 1651 Atwood Avenue (AP 47 Lots 8 and 9)
• Deferred PB 23-07: Putnam Pike Mixed Use Development (Sunn Builders) comment to Smithfield Planning Board

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board approved preliminary plans for Meadowbrook Estates Phase II (9 lots) and Phase III (11 lots) off Cross Road and Central Avenue, and a minor land development at 15 Industrial Lane. They also continued a subdivision application for 2113 Hartford Avenue to May 9 and issued an advisory opinion on a zoning ordinance amendment for unified development review of municipal and school projects.

• Approved preliminary plan for Meadowbrook Estates Phase II (9 lots) off Cross Road, AP 43 Lot 90, zoned R-40
• Approved preliminary plan for Meadowbrook Estates Phase III (11 lots) at 1341-1349 Central Avenue, AP 43 Lot 90, zoned R-40
• Approved preliminary plan for indoor storage facility at 15 Industrial Lane, AP 53 Lot 208, zoned I
• Continued to May 9 Sitwell Park LLC's request to combine master and preliminary stages for 4-lot subdivision at 2113 Hartford Avenue, AP 54 Lot 80, zoned B-3
• Advised Town Council to adopt zoning ordinance amendment for unified development review for municipal and school projects

Postponed Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council's regular monthly meeting scheduled for April 10, 2023, was postponed because a quorum was not present. A new date will be announced later. No business was conducted.

• Meeting postponed due to lack of quorum

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review will hold its regular monthly meeting on March 30, 2023, at 6:30 PM at the Johnston Senior Center. The board will consider five petitions, including a request for a special use permit to host weddings at 80 Hopkins Avenue, a special use permit for a place of worship at 590 Killingly Street, and dimensional variances for residential construction. The meeting will also include approval of minutes from January 26, 2023.

• Petition of Eric Stimpson for a Special Use Permit to host weddings at 80 Hopkins Avenue (AP 59 Lot 40, zoned R-40)
• Petition of Winners Chapel International Church for a Special Use Permit for a place of worship at 590 Killingly Street (AP 12 Lot 1, zoned B-2)
• Petition of Karen Esposito for Dimensional and Use Variance and Relief from Merger at 42 Tartaglia Street (AP 27 Lot 94, zoned R-20)
• Petition of R.P.J. Construction for a Dimensional Variance to build a single-family home on Arcadia Avenue (AP 12 Lot 38, zoned R-10)
• Petition of Ralph Coppolino, Jr. for Dimensional and Use Variance and Relief from Merger at 268 Morgan Avenue (AP 6 Lot 77, zoned R-20)

Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council will consider several resolutions, including hiring a consultant for a financial and operational analysis of the school department, awarding a bid for turf renovation at the soccer complex, and establishing a Charter Review Commission. The council will also hear presentations on pension and GASB actuarial reports, and hold a public hearing on an ordinance amending mobile food truck regulations. Several zone change petitions are pending Planning Board advisory opinions.

• Resolution 2023-9: Authorizes agreement for consulting services for financial/operational analysis of Johnston School Department
• Resolution 2023-10: Awards bid for turf renovations to Field 1 at Johnston Soccer complex
• Resolution 2023-11: Establishes a Charter Review Commission
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2023-4 amending mobile food truck regulations
• Zone change petitions for 198 Shun Pike, Plat 33 Lot 63; Plat 33 Lots 27 & 84; 369 Greenville Avenue

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board will hold a public hearing on a preliminary plan for seven residential lots and a solar field at 1252-1262 Central Avenue, continued from a previous meeting. The board will also discuss the Johnston Comprehensive Plan. No new business is listed.

• Public hearing on PB 21-47: seven road frontage lots and one solar field lot at 1252-1262 Central Avenue, AP 43 Lots 70 & 95, zoned R-40, applicant Revity Energy LLC
• Discussion of PB 22-57: Johnston Comprehensive Plan, including land available for development and non-conforming residential lots

Special Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council is holding a special meeting to enter executive session to discuss litigation involving Expo Development, LLC against the town. The only substantive item is discussion/action on the lawsuit, followed by a return to open session, sealing of minutes, and adjournment.

• Executive session under R.I. General Laws § 42-46-5(a)(2) for discussion/action on Expo Development, LLC v. Town of Johnston, C.A. No. PC-2022-06218

Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council will hold its regular meeting on February 13, 2023, addressing several zoning petitions, ordinances, licenses, and resolutions. Key items include a first reading of an ordinance amending mobile food establishment rules, public hearings on noise restrictions for dumpster collection and shared scooter/bike regulations, and a resolution authorizing an MS4 stormwater compliance agreement. The council will also consider committee appointments and multiple business license applications.

• Zone change petition for 198 Shun Pike (Plat 33, Lot 63) from R-40 to Planned District (2022-CP-47)
• Ordinance 2023-4 amending Chapter 248 on mobile food establishments (first reading)
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2023-2 limiting hours for dumpster/garbage collection noise
• Public hearing on Ordinance 2023-3 setting guidelines for app-based shared scooters and bikes
• Resolution 2023-8 authorizing enrollment of 1307 Hartford Avenue into Rhode Island Ready Program

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board held its monthly meeting, approving minutes and several development items. It continued a public hearing on a solar/residential project on Central Avenue to the next meeting, approved a 28-unit condominium master plan on Atwood Avenue, granted a special use permit and variance for a car wash on Putnam Avenue, and recommended rezoning 369 Greenville Avenue. The board also discussed the town's Comprehensive Plan without a presentation.

• PB 21-47: Central Avenue Solar/Residential preliminary plan continued to March
• PB 22-61: Atwood Avenue Condominiums — 28 dwelling units at 1765 Atwood Avenue approved
• PB 22-56: Hang 10 Car Wash at 8 Putnam Avenue — special use permit and use variance granted
• PB 23-02: Advisory opinion to rezone 369 Greenville Avenue from R-40/R-20 to R-15 approved
• Comprehensive Plan discussion — no presentation

Regular Zoning Board Meeting

The Johnston Zoning Board of Review will hold its regular monthly meeting on January 26, 2023, at 6:30 PM at the Johnston Senior Center. The board will consider three petitions: a special use permit for automotive repair and sales at 577 Killingly Street, and two separate requests for special use permits and dimensional variances for relief from merger at 41 and 42 Tartaglia Street. The agenda also includes approval of the December 29, 2022 minutes.

• Special use permit for automotive repair and sales at 577 Killingly Street (AP 13 Lot 170, zoned B-2) by C & T Motors
• Special use permit and dimensional variances for relief from merger at 41 Tartaglia Street (AP 27 Lot 60, zoned R-20) by Paul Giarusso
• Special use permit and dimensional variances for relief from merger at 42 Tartaglia Street (AP 27 Lot 94, zoned R-20) by Karen L. Esposito
• Approval of minutes from December 29, 2022

Regular Planning Board Meeting

The Johnston Planning Board held its monthly meeting, approving minutes and the 2023 meeting schedule. The board voted on several development projects, including modifications to the Residences at Hopkins Pond parking, a solar/residential preliminary plan, two self-storage facilities, a FedEx parking expansion, and a new subdivision. They also issued a positive recommendation on a rezoning petition and continued discussion of the Comprehensive Plan to February.

• Approved reducing guest parking at Residences at Hopkins Pond from 32 to 25 spaces (AP 44 Lot 26)
• Continued Central Avenue Solar/Residential preliminary plan to February (1252-1262 Central Avenue, AP 43 Lots 70 & 95)
• Approved special use permit and variances for Hartford Ave Self Storage I (behind 1357 Hartford Avenue, AP 20 Lot 25)
• Approved special use permit for Hartford Ave Self Storage II (behind 1347 Hartford Avenue, AP 20 Lot 81)
• Approved Master Plan for Bird's Eye Vue subdivision creating 8 lots (westerly of 17 Wynchwood Place, AP 38 Lots 310 & 338)

Town Council Meeting

The Johnston Town Council is meeting to consider several ordinances, including one to regulate solar energy systems, one to limit dumpster collection hours, and one to set rules for shared scooters and bikes. They will also review pending zone change petitions, award a bid for highway materials, and act on business licenses and tax abatements.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 2023-1 adding solar energy system definitions and use regulations
• First reading of Ordinance 2023-2 limiting dumpster collection hours
• First reading of Ordinance 2023-3 setting guidelines for shared scooters and bikes
• Resolution 2023-6: Bid award for miscellaneous highway materials
• Zone change petitions for 198 Shun Pike, Plat 33 Lot 63, and 369 Greenville Avenue, Plat 48 Lots 90 & 94

Town Council Meeting

The newly elected Johnston Town Council will hold its first meeting to nominate and elect a Council President and Vice-President, and to vote on three resolutions appointing judges for the Municipal, Auxiliary Municipal, and Probate Courts. All other regular council business is deferred to a separate meeting on January 10, 2023.

• Nomination/Election of Town Council President
• Nomination/Election of Town Council Vice-President
• Resolution 2023-1: Appointment of Municipal Court Judge
• Resolution 2023-2: Appointment of Auxiliary Municipal Court Judge
• Resolution 2023-3: Appointment of Probate Court Judge