RI Coastal Resources Management Council
...to preserve, protect, develop, and restore coastal resources for all Rhode Islanders
...to preserve, protect, develop, and restore coastal resources for all Rhode Islanders
In accordance with notice to members of the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management
Council, a meeting was held on Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. located at the
Administration Building, Conference Room A, One Capitol Hill, Providence, RI.
Members Present
Raymond Coia, Chair
Ronald Gagnon, DEM
Patricia Reynolds
Joseph Russolino
Michael Reuter, DPM
Kevin Flynn
Steven Izzi
Staff Present
Jeffrey M. Willis, Executive Director
Laura Miguel, Deputy Director
Richard Lucia, Environmental Engineer IV
Anthony Sawaia, Sr. Environmental Scientist
Bruce Lofgren, Coastal Policy Analyst
Anthony DeSisto Legal Counsel
Mark Hartmann, Assoc Legal Counsel
John Longo, Assoc Legal Counsel
Laura Dwyer, Education/Information Coordinator
Ryan Moore, IT
Lisa Turner, Recording Secretary
1. CALL TO ORDER
Chair Coia called the meeting to order at 6:36 p.m.
2. Review/Action of the Minutes of the Previous Meeting
September 23, 2025
Motion: Mr. Flynn
Second: Mr. Izzi
Unanimous voice vote.
3. Subcommittee Reports
Rights-of-Way Subcommittee
4. Staff Reports
5. Application requiring a Special Exception before the Full Council for Review and Action:
2023-10-015 CITY OF EAST PROVIDENCE -- The City of East Providence proposes to repair significant storm damage to the existing bank and construct a new revetment along an approximate 810 ft section of shoreline at Crescent Park. To protect the shoreline, park land, and persons using the park, the Applicant seeks to construct a shoreline protection system along the park’s southern end which includes: re-grading the existing slope and relocating the toe approximately 30 ft landward from the location of the toe prior to recent storm damage, removal of existing slope vegetation as needed for safety during and after construction, and the construction of a stone revetment system along the shoreline with a vegetated slope incorporating an erosion control mat and coir logs above the revetment. The work includes reconstructing the existing wooden stairs at a new location to the north to maintain access to the beach at the park's southern end. A special exception is required for the grading and cutting of the existing coastal bluff/bank per CRMP Red Book § RICMRP, Specifically, Section 1.3.1.B.2.(a) Filling, Removing and Grading of Shoreline Features, Prohibitions “Filling, removing, or grading is prohibited on beaches, dunes, undeveloped barrier beaches, coastal wetlands, cliffs and banks, and rocky shores adjacent to Type 1 and 2 waters unless the primary purpose of the alteration is to preserve or enhance the feature as a conservation area or natural buffer against storms.”
Additional work has been proposed to keep as much sand as possible ‘in the system’ since the last public notice (October 29, 2024) as follows:
Crescent Park:
Sabin Point
This project is located at Bullocks Point Avenue, East Providence, RI; Plat 414, lots 7, 8, 8-1.
Chair Coia asked to make the Agenda part of the record.
Representatives for the City of East Providence were present.
Mr. Lucia gave a brief overview of the project stating:
Mr. Lucia stated that there was an objection comment received from Save The Bay regarding the removal of sand from the bluff with the sand deposit being offsite rather than on the beach into the coastal system. Mr. Lucia explained that meetings were held between the City of East Providence and their consultant, Save The Bay and CRMC staff, and a new plan was designed which is before the Council. Mr. Lucia stated that the outcome of the meeting is that the sand will be placed on the beach at Crescent Park, at Sabin Point and the remainder will be stored at the municipal yard.
Mr. Lucia stated that a letter of support was submitted by The Nature Conservancy.
Mr. Lucia ended by stating that the overall staff opinion is that the project meets the requirement for the granting of a special exception and meets the requirements of the RICRMP; therefore, staff did not object to the proposed project.
Representatives for the City of East Providence were sworn in and identified for the record:
Mr. Fairbanks briefly addressed the Council stating that CRMC staff did a great job and that all parties worked together to address all concerns and that they were working with The Nature Conservancy to make sure the plantings are non-invasive and sustainable. Mr. Fairbanks confirmed the City of East Providence’s vision to create more use of the beach area and eliminate the risk of erosion issues and create more habitat for wildlife, especially birds.
Mr. Flynn asked about plantings and removing loam. Mr. Fairbanks stated that they were working with The Nature Conservancy who suggested plantings that will be beneficial to the area. Mr. Fairbanks explained that the erosion blankets will allow for the plantings root systems to take hold under the sand which will help prevent heavy erosion.
Mr. Flynn asked about undesirable plant types that could be embedded in the loam brought in. Mr. Fairbanks stated that the City has resources for the upkeep and the Nature Conservancy is excited about the project and will make sure the plants are successful.
Mr. Flynn asked about the location of the stairs. The three sets of stairs in this area of the park were explained and discussed, stating that they wanted to provide public access from all areas and that there was handicapped access from two access points. Mr. Skadberg showed plans to Mr. Flynn.
The Public Hearing was opened and hearing no public comment, was closed.
Mr. Lucia confirmed that CRMC staff had no objection to granting of the special exception and no objection to the approval of the project.
Mr. Izzi motioned for the granting of the special exception based on staff report and testimony and testimony of the applicant.
Mr. Gagnon seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried unanimously for granting Special Exception.
Mr. Izzi motioned to approve the project based on testimony of staff and the applicant.
Mr. Gagnon seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the approval of the application.
6. Applications which have been Out To Notice for 30-Days and are before the Council for Review and Action:
2025-02-078 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION -- The proposed rehabilitation work for the bridge (Barrington Bridge #123) includes the replacement of the deck expansion joint glands, minor concrete patching repairs of the substructure and concrete arch panels, restoring the contact area at select bearings, underwater repairs to the tremie seals of the bridge piers (Piers 1-4), and the installation of scour countermeasures. Underwater repairs include void repairs, grout bags stacked by divers around the tremie to an elevation 18-inches above the top of the existing tremie. Riprap will also be placed by divers along the riverbed between the piers, sloping up from the existing mudline to the elevation of the top of the grout bags. Located at Barrington Bridge #123 – County Road, Barrington RI on the Barrington River.
Attorney Hartman stated that the Warren Harbor Commission submitted comments and given DeSisto Law’s position with the town, the firm recused themselves on this application.
Attorney John Longo, Associate Legal Counsel, represented the Council.
Mr. Lucia addressed the Council and gave a brief overview of the application stating that the proposal was to address heavy scouring from tidal currents. Mr. Lucia explained that 2’ of riprap will be sloped from the newly placed grout bags to the mud line, as well as minor maintenance activities to the substructure and arch panels. Also deck repairs.
Mr. Lucia stated that objection comments were received from two sources:
Mr. Lucia explained that further clarification of construction methods and flow & depth impacts from the project. RIDOT stated that the contractor would schedule and perform operations in a manner to allow full water access to and from the marina at all times. Mr. Lucia stated that CRMC staff would like to add an assent stipulation reflecting such.
Mr. Lucia stated that the computer modeling was submitted due to the concerns of the Warren Harbor Commission on flow and depth impacts. The modeling indicated little or no increase in flow velocities in most events up to a 100-year storm surge. Mr. Lucia also explained that the water depths would be sufficient for normal safe navigation of most vessels, even with some decrease at the spans.
Mr. Lucia stated that a special exception would not be required as the filling proposed is to accommodate the designated priority use.
Mr. Lucia ended by stating that it was staff opinion that the scour protection is necessary for the protection of the public infrastructure and the safety of the public. Staff did not have any objections to the proposed project.
There were no questions from the Council.
Representatives for the Department of Transportation were sworn in and identified for the record:
The applicant’s representative thanked the Council and staff and rested on Staff’s representation of the project. In an abundance of caution, Mr. Flynn recused himself as he is on another board with one of the RIDOT’s representatives.
Mr. Mateus confirmed for Ms. Reynolds that RIDOT has reviewed the stipulations and had no objection to including those into the contract documents.
Speaking in Opposition:
Jane and Stephen Mainella, Owners of Atlantic Marine addressed the Council stating their concerns and asking how close the construction barges would be to their marina and the maneuverability of their boaters. At the end of the discussion, the Mainella’s were assured that a RIDOT Engineer would keep them apprised of the project and that the project would not affect the maneuverability of their boaters.
No further public comment.
RIDOT representative confirmed that the project would not go forward until the Bike Path is completed.
No further questions from Council
Mr. Izzi motioned to approve based on the staff report, staff testimony and testimony of the applicant as well as testimony from interested party.
Ms. Reynolds seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the approval of the application
7. Application requiring Special Exception and are before the Council for Public Hearing and Action:
2024-12-004 The Narragansett Electric Company -- Replace/rebuild/reconfigure 1.9 miles of E183-3 and F184N-4/5 115kV Transmission Lines through Warren. CRMC portion of project extends from Massachusetts State line to Kickemuit Rd. The project will result in the permanent alteration of 1,607ft2 of coastal wetland. Project requires a Special Exception to 650-RICR-20-00-1.2.2(C)(1)(c - d) and (C)(2)(a - b). In accordance with §1.3.1(L)(5), 5,460ft2 of mitigation wetland will be created, exceeding the 2:1 replacement requirement. Located at TNEC Line E183-3 and F184N- 4/5; Warren RI. Plat 11, Lots 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44; Plat 21, Lots 246, 54; Plat 9, Lot 18.
Ms. Silva addressed the Council explaining that the file is back before the Council after having been remanded back to staff at the September 23, 2025 meeting so that the applicant, Save The Bay and The Warren Land Trust could collaborate on the methods of restoration and come to a more definitive agreement and more clarification on the restoration.
Ms. Silva stated that following the day of the 09/23/305 Semimonthly meeting, CRMC staff forwarded all parties the draft stipulation language, which ensures that a qualified environmental monitor oversee the project and submit project progress and monitoring reports to CRMC ensure compliance and successful restoration.
Ms. Silva stated that with collaboration of all parties, Narragansett Electric Company drafted a Plan B restoration alternative. After the completion of the collaboration of the three parties, CRMC sent draft stipulations, which would be in addition to standard assent stipulations, to all parties, to ensure compliance and collaboration with CRMC throughout the phases.
Ms Silva stated that there are no further objections from Save The Bay and The Warren Land Trust and that it is Staff’s opinion that the Narragansett Electric Company had adequately addressed the objector concerns and Staff recommended approval of the special exception and the project as a whole – with additional stipulations.
Attorney George Watson of Robinson & Cole was present to represent The Narragansett Electric Company. Atty Watson stated that they did not have any further information to add but that they were available to answer questions.
There were no questions from the Council
Chair Coia opened the public hearing for the Special Exception and with no comments heard, closed the public hearing.
Mr. Izzi motioned that the Council approve the special exception for this project based on the fact that it meets the Redbook requirements.
Mr. Flynn seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the approval Special Exception.
Mr. Flynn motioned for the approval of the application based on the staff report. Mr. Izzi also thanked all parties for their time well spent to come to a consensus on this project.
Mr. Izzi seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the approval of the application.
8. Council Review of and Action on CRMC Proposed Rulemaking:
Title of Rule: Management Procedures (650-RICR-10-00-1)
Rulemaking Authority: R.I. Gen. Laws Chapter 46-23 et seq.
Summary of Rulemaking Action:
The Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC) has proposed two amendments to the Management Procedures Program, 650-RICR-10-00-1.2(B) Meetings and Members and 650-RICR-10-00-1.4.6(A)(22) CAD Cell Disposal Fee.
Management Procedures Program 650-RICR-10-00-1.2(B) Meetings and Members
R.I. General Law § 46-23-2 Coastal Resources Management Council – Appointment of Members and R.I. General Law § 46-23—4 Officers of the Council - Quorum and Vote Required for Action was recently amended by the General Assembly in 2025 (see Senate Bill 0998 Substitute A and House Bill 6126 Substitute A). The amendments reduce the number of Coastal Resources Management Council members from ten (10) to seven (7). The amendment at 46-23.4 also reduces the number of members required for a quorum from six (6) to four (4). The General Assembly requires the CRMC to initiate rulemaking within 30 days of the date of passage. To implement this legislation, Section 1.2(B) Meetings and Members of the Management Procedures (650-RICR-10.00.1) is proposed to be amended to reduce the quorum requirements of the Council from six (6) members to four (4) members pursuant to § 46-23-2(b).
Mr. Lofgren gave a brief overview of the regulatory amendment stating that the amendment was being done based on legislation passed by the General Assembly regarding the appointment of members and quorum requirements. Mr. Lofgren stated that the amendments had been vetted through the Planning and Procedures Subcommittee and staff was directed to begin rule making.
Mr. Lofgren stated that two public comments were received, one from Save The Bay and one from the NE Chapter of the Backcountry Hunters and Anglers. Mr. Lofgren stated that the reason for the comments was ambiguity in the language, however staff has correctly referenced the State Law within our management procedures. Mr. Lofgren stated that CRMC would work with CRMC Legal Counsel to put together a memo of how CRMC would interpret the changes before and after they become effective in March of 2026.
Mr. Lofgren stated that CRMC staff recommended that the Council adopt the amendments as presented and if approved, staff would initiate final rulemaking with OMB and SOS.
Mr. Lofgren clarified for the Council that Save The Bay and Backcountry Hunters & Anglers were looking for more of an explanation with the rule on how this will work with the quorum before and after there are new appointments.
Mr. Russolino motioned to adopt the proposed rulemaking as presented.
Mr. Izzi seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the adoption of the proposed rulemaking.
Management Procedures Program 650-RICR-10-00-1.4.6(A)(22) CAD Cell Disposal Fee
R.I. General Law § 46-23-18.5 – Fees for Disposal was recently amended per the Governor’s Budget Amendment #22 and Article 2 of the FY 2026 Appropriations Act (25-H-5076). The amendment to this statute re-established the minimum fee for disposal of dredge material in the State’s Confined Aquatic Disposal (CAD) Cells from $11.65 per cubic yard to $35.00 per cubic yard. Per the amendment, the Council shall maintain its three-tiered fee structure while increasing all three of the CAD Cell disposal fees commensurately.
Mr. Lofgren stated that the proposed rulemaking amendment was in response to the governor’s approved budget of 2026 where the CAD cell fees were increased with the minimum fee being $35.00 per cubic yard.
Mr. Lofgren explained that staff did a regional analysis of other ports are charging for CAD cell disposal fees, and we based our structure on that, and increased them, with the three-tiered structure that we had in place.
There were no objections to this proposed rulemaking.
Mr. Lofgren stated that CRMC CAD Cell disposal fees had been in place for over 20 years and recommended that the Council adopt the proposed amendment as presented.
No questions from the Council
Mr. Izzi motioned to adopt the proposed amendment.
Mr. Gagnon seconded the motion.
Chair Coia did a roll call vote:
Mr. Flynn Aye
Mr. Izzi Aye
Mr. Russolino Aye
Dr. Reuter Aye
Mr. Gagnon Aye
Ms. Reynolds Aye
Chair Coia Aye
Motion carried for the adoption of the proposed rulemaking.
9. ADJOURN
Motion to adjourn:
Motion: Mr. Gagnon
Second: Mr. Russolino
Motion to adjourn approved on a unanimous voice vote.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 pm.
Minutes respectfully submitted,
Lisa A. Turner, Recording Secretary
Stedman Government Center
Suite 116, 4808 Tower Hill Road, Wakefield, RI 02879-1900
Voice 401-783-3370 • Fax 401-783-2069 • E-Mail cstaff1@crmc.ri.gov
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