Rhode IslandH85932026 Regular SessionHouse

AN ACT AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF PAWTUCKET TO PROVIDE FOR THE IMPROVEMENT AND REPLACEMENT OF ROAD SAFETY INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRAFFIC CONTROL DEVICES IN THE CITY OF PAWTUCKET AND AUTHORIZING THE FINANCING THEREOF, INCLUDING THE ISSUE OF NOT MORE THAN $2,500,000 BONDS AND NOTES THEREFOR, TO FUND THE CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE TWO FISCAL YEARS 2028 AND 2029 .

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 0 costs, 3 mixed.

Pawtucket road safety bonds and taxes

The law lets Pawtucket borrow up to $2.5 million for road safety in fiscal years 2028 and 2029. Bonds can run up to 30 years, with the first principal payment due within 3 years. These are general obligation debts backed by property taxes. The city must budget for debt payments each year. If it does not, the unpaid amount is added to the tax levy, and taxes can be raised without a cap to pay the debt. Issuing the bonds still requires voter approval at an election.

Voters decide Pawtucket road bonds

The bond question must go on the Pawtucket ballot at the next general election. If an earlier city-wide or state special election (not a primary) is called and the mayor directs it, the question goes then. The city clerk must keep a copy of the act available for public inspection while the election is warned. This gives voters control, and, if approved, the city can move forward with the borrowing.

Short-term borrowing and grant options

The city can sell short‑term notes in anticipation of bonds or aid, with each note paid within 5 years. Refunding notes are allowed, but total outstanding refunding notes cannot be more than 200% of the bond limit. The treasurer, with council approval, can advance city funds now and repay them later without interest from bonds, grants, or other funds. While waiting to spend, money can be put in bank deposits or U.S. government‑backed investments, and premiums or earnings can pay project costs, debt, or be added to revenues if federal law allows. The council can seek and spend federal or state grants, and federal rules control if they conflict. Bonds and notes can be issued without other approvals, the mayor and treasurer can sign needed tax and securities documents, and after 7 years the council may cancel any unused borrowing authority.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Mary Messier
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

Karen Alzate
Democratic • House
Cherie L. Cruz
Democratic • House
Jennifer A. Stewart
Democratic • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 67 • No: 0

House vote • 6/8/2026

PAWTUCKET BONDS & NOTES PASSAGE