Mayor Lombardi’s 7% Push for Infrastructure

The Proposal: Mayor Charles Lombardi has proposed a 7% tax increase, significantly exceeding Rhode Island’s state-mandated 4% municipal tax cap. The "Why": * New Schools: The primary driver is an $8.5 million debt service payment following a voter-approved $125 million bond for all-new elementary schools. Hospital Revenue Loss: A $3.3 million shortfall caused by the sale and status change of Fatima Hospital. The "Cap" Hurdle: Because the increase is 7%, the Town Council must seek special authorization from the Rhode Island General Assembly to override the 4% limit. Mayor’s Defense: Lombardi highlights that the town had no tax increases for 10 of the last 12 years and frames this as a necessary cost for infrastructure the public voted for. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.