Providence council backs stormwater task-force report and signals possible new fees

Providence — The Providence City Council on the evening considered a resolution presenting the findings of a stormwater task force and signaled plans to pursue permanent measures to address recurring flooding.

Council members said the task force report identified “actions that we need to take as a city and options that we have to move forward,” and that some options may include “potentially creating new fees and revenue streams to deal with the stormwater issue.” Priscilla Veil Cruz, a representative of the task force mentioned by councilors, was offered as a point of contact to brief council meetings and neighborhood forums on the recommendations.

The resolution’s sponsor told colleagues the report was “really complete” and noted a one-page summary is available for quick review. Several councilors, including Councilwoman Davidson, praised the task force and described Providence as having “a real opportunity to be a leader” in crafting proactive stormwater solutions.

Councilwoman Peterson described severe localized impacts in Ward 14 and said she will work to educate neighbors about the recommendations. Multiple councilors emphasized that adapting to flooding is preferable to reacting after damage occurs.

The council passed the motion on the item and the clerk was asked to refer the resolution to the Special Committee on Environment and Resiliency for further work toward a permanent ordinance.

The council President said the body looks forward to working with city administration and communities to translate the task-force recommendations into policy and implementation steps.