Westerly Development News
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Westerly Town Council - 6/22/26
Published: Jun 22, 2026
Westerly Town Council Repeals Bike Path and Cycling Advisory Commission
The Westerly Town Council voted to repeal Article 18, the Bike Path and Cycling Advisory Commission, of Chapter 5 of the Westerly Code of Ordinances. This decision came after discussions highlighting the committee's inactivity and the costs associated with maintaining inactive committees. Councilor La Petra argued against repeal, suggesting that keeping the committee dormant would cost nothing and preserve it for future needs. Councilor Vandover recalled the committee's past work, including hiring an engineer for path alternatives and contributing to the Atlantic Avenue bike path. However, the majority felt the committee had served its purpose and was no longer necessary, particularly with concerns about the rising use of e-bikes and the town's infrastructure not being fully equipped for them. The council voted 4-2 to repeal the commission.
Westerly Town Council Repeals Neighbor Day Committee, Transfers Duties to Multicultural Committee
The Westerly Town Council voted to repeal Article 11, the Neighbor Day Committee, and transfer its responsibilities to the Westerly Multicultural Committee. This administrative cleanup aims to consolidate efforts as the Multicultural Committee has been successfully organizing Neighbor Day events for the past few years, including the 250th-anniversary celebration. Councilor Ayello proposed an amendment to keep the Neighbor Day Committee ordinance intact but modify section 547A to include staggered five-year terms for members and allow the Town Council to assign another committee, like the Multicultural Committee, to this role. However, this motion to amend failed. The council ultimately voted to repeal the committee and formally transfer its duties.
Westerly Town Council Approves Penalties Waiver for Late Payments
The Westerly Town Council discussed two fiscal matters: a resolution authorizing the waiver of penalties for late payments totaling $822.71 (Item B1) and another waiver for $60.38 (Item B2). Both items were approved unanimously by the council after a brief discussion.
Westerly Town Council Votes to Offer Dam Transfer to State, Keeping Mill Site
The Westerly Town Council debated the future of the Potter Hill Dam and its associated mill site. Councilor Petro proposed directing the town solicitor to draft a letter offering to transfer ownership of the dam, unencumbered, to a state agency like the DEM, emphasizing the town's desire to be completely free of the liability and ongoing costs associated with the dam. Councilors Van Dover and Healy opposed giving away the property, particularly the mill site, suggesting selling it instead due to its potential value. Councilor Ayello supported transferring ownership of the entire site to a state agency for use as a recreational area, citing past mistakes in acquiring the property. Councilor Shalaba expressed concern about excluding the Westerly Land Trust, which had plans for the mill site, and suggested further research before a complete transfer. Ultimately, the council voted 6-0 to direct the solicitor to send a letter to the DEM offering to transfer ownership of the dam *only*, excluding the mill site, acknowledging concerns about subdividing the parcel.
Westerly Town Council Honors Essay Contest Winners and Time Capsule Project Participants
The Westerly Town Council recognized McKinley Santos and Samantha Jorno for winning the Westerly 250th Anniversary Essay Writing Competition. Their essays commemorated the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States and were included in the Westerly Time Capsule Project, which is set to be opened on July 4th, 2126. The council also celebrated the upcoming America 250 Time Capsule event on July 4th, 2026, reinforcing the town's pride and patriotism.
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The Westerly News archive
Westerly Town Council - 6/22/26
Westerly School Committee - 6/17/26
Westerly School Committee - 6/17/26
WPS School Building Subcommittee 6/10/2026
WPS School Building Subcommittee 6/10/2026
Westerly School Committee - 6/3/26
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