1

2

Prepared for the Mayor and City Council of the City of Woonsocket

City of Woonsocket, Department of Planning and Development Annual Report 2016

In Accordance with Chapter X, Article 5, Section 3(b) of the Woonsocket Home Rule Charter

3

Produced by:

The City of Woonsocket

Department of Planning and Development

169 Main Street

Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895

Telephone: (401) 767-9236

(401) 767-9237

Fax: (401) 766-9312

http://www.woonsocketri.org/planning-development

4

MAYOR

Lisa Baldelli-Hunt, Mayor

CITY COUNCIL

Daniel M. Gendron, President

Jon D. Brien, Vice-President

Christopher A. Beauchamp

James C. Cournoyer

Richard J. Fagnant

Melissa A. Murray

Denise D. Sierra

Planning Board and Design Review Commission

George Sargent, Chairman

Kenneth Finlay, Vice-Chairman

Eric Cartier, Secretary

Stephen Crisafulli, Member

Jonathan Pratt, Member

Zoning Board

Alan Leclaire, Chairman

Roland M. Michaud, Vice-Chairman

Kathryn M. Dumais, Member

Norman Frechette, Member

Richard Masse, Member

Paul Pierannunzi - 1st Alternate

Scott Maclennan- 2nd Alternate

5

N. David Bouley Director

Rui G. Almeida City Planner/Deputy Director for Planning/Administrative Officer

Planning Board and Design Review Commission

Jarret Katz Principal Planner

Paola Echeverry-Orlando Grants Writer

Christopher V. Carcifero Deputy Director for Housing and Community Development

Thomas S. Koback Jr. Construction Supervisor

Susan DiColella Housing Program Manager

Linda L. Houle Executive Secretary

Carl Johnson Zoning Officer/ADA Compliance

Brad R. Ward Building Official

Bernard Bernard III Electrical Inspector

Donald Dalpe Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector

Leo A. Cote Assistant Building Inspector/Assistant Zoning Officer

Armand Binette Senior Housing Inspector

Herve Tellier Housing Inspector

Jacob Neves Housing Inspector

June Mousseau Office Manager

Nicole Haynes Minimum Housing Clerk

Joan LeFrançois Zoning/Building Clerk

Joel Matthews Special Projects Administrator

DEPARTMENT STAFF

6

7

City Profile 8

A Message from the Director 10

Our Mission 12

Department Overview 15

Community Engagement 16

2016 Staff Highlights 16

The Office of the Director 19

The Division of Planning 21

The Division of Housing

& Community Development 39

The Division of Zoning

& Building Inspection & Construction 46

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8

CITY PROFILE

GEOGRAPHY

Total Land Area 7.961 Square miles

POPULATION

Total Population (2010) 41,475

Projected (2020) 38,571

Projected (2030) 37,014

Projected (2040) 34,752

Median Age 38

EMPLOYMENT

Civilian Labor Force 19,144

Employment 17,879

Unemployment 1,265

Unemployment Rate 6.6%

Median Household Income $36,420

HOUSING

Total Units 19,448

Owner Occupied 39%

Renter Occupied 61%

Vacant Buildings 230

Median Value $138,500

Median Monthly Owner Cost (mortgage dollars) $1,233

Source (Population): U.S. Census Bureau, 2010

Source (Employment): R.I Department of Labor, 2015

Source (Housing): Housingworks R.I. - Housing Fact Book, 2016

Source (Vacant Buildings): City of Woonsocket Vacant Building List, 2016

WOONSOCKET, RHODE ISLAND

9

10

Dear Woonsocket Residents:

During 2016, the City of Woonsocket’s Department of Planning & Development achieved

several significant milestones. During the previous year, the Department worked in conjunction

with the Office of the Mayor and the City Council to promote zoning ordinance changes that

encourage aquaculture and specialized farming techniques in the City. In addition, a Tax

Stabilization Plan for Woonsocket’s Downtown was created, and a number of important

changes to the Zoning Ordinance and Comprehensive Plan were enacted to encourage

commercial and industrial development in the community. The Department also secured a

significant grant from the Rhode Island Department Environmental Management for the

rehabilitation and redevelopment of Cass Park.

The City was awarded the 2016 Policy/Plan Award by GrowSmartRI for the Woonsocket

Downtown Overlay District Plan adopted by the Administration and City Council to encourage

revitalization and re-growth in the City’s older central business district.

In addition to these significant accomplishments, the Department of Planning & Development

also provided important day-to-day services to the citizens of Woonsocket in the following

areas:

Development & Redevelopment Review

Comprehensive Planning & Land Development Review

Historic Preservation

Building Inspection & Code Enforcement

Housing & Community Development Assistance

In 2017, the Department will continue to work on ambitious plans for Main Street and River

Street Area. The City’s goal is to work collectively with the property owners and private

developers, business owners and adjacent residents to develop plans that will enhance and

further residential and commercial development initiatives in these vital sections of our

community. In addition, we look forward to advancing the sale and redevelopment of the former

Woonsocket Middle School at Park Place initiated in late 2016.

The Department of Planning & Development is committed to addressing the issues that face

individual neighborhoods as well as the City as a whole, especially in light of recently improving

economic conditions. The Department will continue to be flexible and innovative while still

striving to maintain and enhance the quality of life which makes Woonsocket a wonderful place

to live and work.

N. David Bouley, Director

Department of Planning & Development

11

12

To support the practice of good planning, the Department of Planning and Development strives

to provide leadership in assisting City representatives in making informed decisions concerning

land use, built environment, urban design, architecture, and heritage resources. Through

education, the Department of Planning and Development assists in responding to the defined

needs of the City and provides information and recommendations to citizens and decision-

makers of the City of Woonsocket so jointly a long term sustainable vision can be achieved. We

strive for a balanced development between tradition and innovation, preserving our values and

leveraging our potential to forge a vibrant, creative and happy future for our community.

13

14

15

The Planning Department assists the City’s leadership in making informed decisions concerning

land use, proposed development projects, heritage resources, and housing opportunities. The

staff provides technical assistance to various boards and commissions, and oversees the public

hearing process thereby enabling citizen participation in shaping the future of Woonsocket’s

neighborhoods. The Planning Department works closely with community leaders, elected

officials, and other stakeholders to ensure the viability of future growth, enforce City regulations,

and maintain the high quality of life enjoyed by City of Woonsocket residents.

The City of Woonsocket Department of Planning is comprised of four divisions: Office of the

Director, Division of Planning, Division of Housing and Community Development, and the

Division of Zoning & Building Inspection & Construction.

16

The Department of Planning provides staff support or acts as a liaison for the following

Boards, Commissions, or community organizations

Boards and Commissions

Mayor and City Council

Planning Board

Design Review Commission

Zoning Board

Zoning Board of Appeals

STAFF HIGHLIGHTS

City of Woonsocket Department of Planning and Development in 2016 attended a series of

events, meetings and education opportunities, enhancing and updating our knowledge base and

skills.

DIVISION OF PLANNING

9/28/2016 Statewide Planning Meeting Providence

10/3/2016 Ribbon Cutting Celebration at Ashton Village – Affordable Housing

10/18/2016 Congress of New Urbanism New England Regional Event “Building Lean

Roundtable Series” Boston, MA

10/20/2016 Congress of New Urbanism New England Regional Event “Death by Chains”

Providence, RI

11/17/2016 HUD “Central Falls and Woonsocket Meeting” Central Falls, RI

11/17/2016 Congress of New Urbanism New England Event “The Urbanism Awards 2016”

Somerville MA

12/13/2016 “Designing Commercial Construction in Urban Areas to Facilitate Transit”

Providence, RI

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

STAFF HIGHLIGHTS

17

DIVISION OF HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT

6/25/2015 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, final recommendation of proposals

7/22/2015 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, contract signings & orientation

1/11/2016 RIHPHC State Preservation Grant Award Presentation (East Greenwich)

1/14/2016 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, training

5/12/2016 Sojourner House Spring Breakfast (Providence)

5/24/2016 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, review of proposals

6/7/2016 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, review of proposals

6/21/2016 Grow Smart “Power of Place Summit”

6/28/2016 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, final recommendation of proposals

7/21/2016 Consolidated Homeless Fund Committee, contract signings & orientation

11/17/2016 HUD “Central Falls and Woonsocket Meeting” Central Falls, RI

1/19/2017 RIHPHC State Preservation Grant Award Presentation (Bristol)

18

19

The Office of the Director of Planning and Development was created by the Woonsocket Home

Rule Charter on April 30, 1969. The head of the Department is appointed by the Mayor. The

Director is chief administrative officer of the Department containing the Office of the Director, the

Division of Planning, the Division of Zoning, Building Inspection and Construction and the

Division of Development. The Director of the Certifying Officer is the City relative to the United

States Department of Housing and Urban Development within the community.

The responsibilities of the Director are to supervise and coordinate the working of all divisions

and personnel; to coordinate the activities of all municipal departments relating to planning and

development; to submit an annual report to the mayor summarizing the work of the preceding

year, including projections as to future plans and actions; to submit other reports called for by

the Mayor; as well as to apply for and administer special federal and state grants as assigned

by the Mayor and/or legislatively by the City Council.

The City of Woonsocket is the sixth largest city in Rhode Island with a population of 41, 186

(2010 Census). The Department of Planning and Development has a compliment of 19

members with 11 assigned to inspection and regulatory administration through the Inspection

Division. Eight members operate at the planning level with a minimal staff of 4 (Director of

Planning and Development, City Planner, Principal Planner and a Grants Writer – only 3 are

planners). Providence has 44 staff members in their Department of Planning & Development

with a population of 178,042, East Providence with a population of 47,037 has a Planning staff

of 7 (all planners), more than double the number of planners in our Department. Central Falls

with a population of 19,376 has 3 planners.

20

21

The Division of Planning works closely with the Director of Planning and Development,

developing planning studies and action programs for the solutions of the City’s problems, and is

charged with coordinating the review process for all commercial, residential, and institutional

land development in the City. The Division serves as the central agency for receiving and

routing development plans as well as the primary contact for applicants during the review

process. In addition to these management functions, Division Staff also conducts the technical

review of applications for compliance with the applicable zoning, subdivision, collectively known

as the Subdivision Regulations, Design Guidelines, Comprehensive Plan, and provides

recommendations to the Planning Board, Design Review Commission (which it staffs) and the

Zoning Official, The Mayor and City Council on pending land use applications.

The Planning Division is comprised of a City Planner, who is also the Deputy Director for

Planning and Administrative Officer to the Planning Board and Design Review Commission, and

has a staff of two: a Grants Writer and a Principal Planner.

The City Planner/Deputy Director for Planning is responsible for assisting in the day to day

operations of the Planning & Development Department and specifically the Planning Division.

Conducts professional studies and assists assigned city-hired consultants. Studies and analysis

relate to land use regulations, zoning, subdivision, site plan analyses and review, capital

budgeting, comprehensive planning, population composition and trends, economic base and

sociological characteristics, hazard mitigation, traffic circulation, and parking, neighborhood

conditions and housing, planning legislation and supervision of related regulation

implementation, such as subdivision and design review. The City Planner serves as

Administrative Officer to the Woonsocket Planning Board, the Design Review Commission and

other boards/commissions created by subdivision and zoning regulations, as well as assists in

the development and implementation of long range planning initiatives.

The City Planner designs, creates, edits and maintains digital maps and information, reviews

land development plans/subdivision plans/zoning applications as directed for residential,

commercial, mixed-use, and transportation proposals, provides staff support and liaison support

to other boards and commissions as needed, requiring preparing and maintaining records for

each public bodies, which may include, but not limited to, Conservation Commission and

Historic District Commission. Coordinates and assists the Grants Writer in preparing grant

applications and is responsible for grant administration and grant management. Coordinates

and assists the Principal Planner in all matters of municipal planning issues. The City

22

Planner/Deputy Director for Planning is also responsible for compiling records and

recommendations in connection with applications pending before relevant boards and

commissions, and provides findings to the Director and Planning Board. Communicates with

other City departments regarding development applications and/or City related initiatives,

performs other related work and special projects, and drafts findings of fact for planning

commissions, design review, and other relevant decisions.

The Grants Writer is responsible for the overall coordination of research and writing of all grants

to government agencies, private foundations and corporations, assisting in the funding of

services, and projects for the City of Woonsocket. Conducts prospective research on potential

government, foundation and individual grantors. Develops, writes, edits and proofreads

proposals in accordance with grantor standards, required paperwork and supporting

documentation and proposal time deadlines. Maintains and tracks and follows upon all

submitted grant requests, corresponds with grantors on the status of proposals. Conducts

interviews and verifies information with individuals involved with obtaining specific grants.

Communicates to the City Planner/Deputy Director of Planning on progress of grants and grant

opportunities.

The Principal Planner is responsible for work involved with the application of professional

planning knowledge skills as they pertain to municipal planning issues. Assists with

administration of the Department of Planning and Development in the development and

implementation of long range planning activities, in inter-departmental communications, with the

supervision and review of professional and technical staff, and conducts professional studies

and assists city engaged consultants, at the direction of the City Planner/Deputy Director for

Planning.

The Planning Division in 2016 underwent structural changes positioning it to better serve our

community in providing a more diverse and wider range of services, with heightened efficiency.

All of the Division staff are new. The growing needs and complexity of the development in

Woonsocket places new and expanded demands and requirements on the Department’s

Division of Planning. The new and growing challenges the City faces in the current economic,

social and urban development creates added pressures to perform in creating a propitious

environment for growth and development. With the brain drain our State has and continues to

experience, it is vital to harness and retain the necessary talent and skill set our communities

direly need. The members of this Division bring to the table a unique and wide range of talents

23

and skills that have enabled the City to design and manage many types of projects (urban

design, architecture, illustration, graphic design and history of urbanism and architecture),

otherwise not possible, due to budget constraints. Saving time, procedure and cost has been

the greatest value brought to the City by these professionals. To date an estimated one million

dollars has been saved in project fees, moneys the City does not have, and hence without this

expertise and skills, the City would not be able to obtain said projects. The development of

Woonsocket desperately needs transformative projects that are geared toward promoting urban

and economic development, fundamentally based on urban design that is environmentally

sound, urban and architecturally integrated and socially responsible to attract new businesses

and residents to expand its tax base. The professionals hired to compose the Division of

Planning have produced and designed in the short time they have been in their functions, and

aside from their day-to-day operations, over 25 projects of varying types and sizes.

The City Planner/Deputy Director for Planning, Rui G. Almeida, was hired on September 1,

2016. A seasoned planner, urban and architectural designer with a diverse and vast experience

and qualifications spanning two continents, specializing in cultural identity and sustainability, is

now leading the Planning Division. His European (Portugal) and American experience in local

and regional government and in the private sector of over 30 years offers the City of

Woonsocket a unique and privileged context of talent, experience and expertise never before

attained in our city. Mr. Almeida undertakes planning and urban design projects from inception

through completion as well as the design of many transformative in-house projects, organizes

and develops planning and urban redevelopment programs set by the City, coordinates various

staff activities of the Department in the completion of assigned projects with special emphasis

on urban design and architecture. Rui is an internationally established urban designer and

architect, graphic and industrial designer that has, since he was hired last September, designed

and led over 25 projects ranging from graphic design to city master plans, saving the City

hundreds of thousands of dollars in project fees, response time and procedure. Mr. Almeida

studied Architectural Engineering Technology at Roger Williams University in Bristol Rhode

Island, acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture at the School of Architecture - Technical

University of Lisbon, Portugal, and has a Master’s Degree in History of Art – Urbanism and

Architecture, XV-XVIII Centuries, from the College of Human and Social Sciences, New

University of Lisbon in Portugal, and is undergoing his PHD studies in the same University and

area of study. He is a member of the OA – Order of Architects of Portugal, since 1989, member

of Congress for New Urbanism - CNU New England, American Planning Association, Rhode

24

Island Chapter , and has been teaching since 1992 in a wide variety of school types, grade

levels and subject matters, such as visual arts, graphic design, design theory and history of art,

and most recently, at a Post-Graduate level, interior architecture, adaptive reuse, at RISD’s

INTAR, and as architectural critic in RISD and RWU. Rui Almeida has a long standing interest in

matters of cultural identity and sustainability regarding architectural environment and human

dwelling, focused on urban and architectural identity and place making of civic spaces, as well

as graphic and industrial design, which he has practiced for many years. Looking as far back as

his work in social housing, his research and inquiry (academic and through his practice) has

centered on architectural tradition, history (vernacular and erudite) and cultural and artistic

innovation, in the hope to restore the vital role of architecture in human development and

dwelling. He considers his architecture as “Clean, simple, and honest – anchored on tradition

and history, designed for the future.”

The Principal Planner, Jarret Katz, hired on September 23, 2016, brings to the table a rich and

diverse set of skills and knowledge in urban planning, community planning, site planning, zoning

law, landscape design, regulatory compliance and environmental regulation. His experience

centers in urban redesign, energy policy implementation, stakeholder mediation and regulatory

compliance. Jarret secures the needs of the Department in Geographic Information System

(GIS), Mapping for projects, urban agriculture project development, design and outreach,

environmental issues, solar and alternative energy planning studies, subdivision recording,

Design Review recommendation preparation and recording, planning board material

organization, agenda writing and posting, project management, meeting organization, and

customer service. Mr. Katz assists and undertakes planning projects from inception through

completion of projects design by the City Planner or, participates in the organization and

development of the planning and urban redevelopment programs set by the city and designed

by the City Planner, assists in coordinating various staff activities of the Department in the

completion of assigned projects with special emphasis on urban design or research and

analysis. Prepares written and graphic reports using computerized word processing, desktop

publishing, presentation, mapping, spreadsheet, database software, and other software devices.

Jarret is also a brilliant illustrator, a vital and important tool that our Division sees great use

regarding in-house urban design and architectural projects we develop, heightening

communication of concepts and projects to City Hall, the community and developers. Mr. Katz

possesses a Master’s Degree in Environmental Science and Management from the University of

25

Rhode Island (concentration in Planning and Design), and a B.A. in Environmental Studies from

the University of Delaware, DE. Mr. Katz is a member of Congress for New Urbanism - CNU

New England, and American Planning Association, Rhode Island Chapter.

The Grants writer, Paola Acheverry-Orlano, was hired on February 8, 2016. With a diverse and

qualitative background in multicultural international finance and development, and grant writing

and development, Paola’s experience extends to quantitative and qualitative research and

analysis and office project management, research assistant, and consultant in international

cooperation. Mrs. Orlando has a Master’s Degree in International Development and Social

Change from Clark University, Worcester, MA, a Master’s Degree in International Cooperation

and Development Projects from the Externado University, Bogotá, Colombia, and a Bachelor’s

Degree in Finance and International Relations, also from the Externado University, Bogotá,

Colombia. Mrs. Echeverry-Orlando is a member of Congress for New Urbanism - CNU New

England.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

The current Comprehensive Plan for the City of Woonsocket was approved in 2012, after a

complicated 3 year process. Within that timeframe much has occurred on the international,

national and local level requiring revisiting the vision, goals, objectives and policies to better

meet the current and future needs of the City as it moves forward in the contemporary economic

and social environment. Pursuant to § 45-22.2 of the Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning

and Land Use Regulation Act, the revision of the Woonsocket Comprehensive Plan will be

pursued.

MAIN STREET MASTER PLAN

As the heart of the American City, Main Streets across our Nation were intentional creations of

economic and commercial centralization, servicing city population and visitors alike with a wide

range of products and services. As the center of the city, its urban and architectural significance

was visible in its architectural wall of meaningful and beautiful facades. The concentration of

forces like the railroad and streetcar linked the population to the center and around it, creating a

multilayered system of vital accessibility. By the turn of the 20th century Main Street had

PLANNING EFFORTS

26

become a densely packed intermingling of buildings, buggies, trolleys and people - the civic and

commercial heart of the American city.

The undoing of main streets had the greatest contribution from the automobile, ushered in as

the twentieth century was just beginning. Its ability to transport goods, services and people to

thousands of remote locations, the automobile became a counterforce to the urbanization that

proceeded it. Car fueled theories of the new 20th century decentralized the urban landscape. By

1960’s this vision was translated into policies in the US by the federal government called "urban

renewal". Densely built and highly centralized, many of America's declining downtown business

districts became ready targets for clearance and redevelopment. Countless others were left to

wither, as suburban shopping centers, nourished by the new interstate highway system, drew

away business.

By mid-century, forces began to counter these downward spiraling events. Jane Jacob's

notorious manifesto - The Death and Life of Great American Cities (1963) - a powerful

philosophical charge against the brave new world of decentralization emerges as the new bible

for walkable cities. Then The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 helped tip public policy

toward preservation rather than clearance.

In this scenario, along with reinvestment in neighborhoods, the preservation of Main Street

became an important part of the trend toward urban reinvigoration in the US. With the

availability of historic preservation tax credits and championed by such programs as the

National Trust for Historic Preservation's National Main Street Center, Main Street buildings

across America have been rehabilitated.

Main Street Woonsocket fits classically into this mold of rise and descent of American cities.

Early maps of Woonsocket show the clear intent of Main Street from the outset of the City. An

architectural wall along the sidewalk created the public realm where pedestrians directly

accessed the businesses and shops that lined both sides of the street.

In the aftermath of the industrial boom, with mills closing and relocating abroad, and the strong

pattern of commercial movement to the outer areas on the city, a decreasing tendency of

commercial and residential activity in and around Main Street occurred, resulting in today’s

emptiness that blights this beautiful and precious central area of Woonsocket – the heart of the

city. Decayed buildings, many vacant, parking lots forged from massive demolition campaigns,

and the Worcester/Providence line deactivated for passenger use, has since defined Main

Street.

Since then many programs and projects have attempted to revive downtown. Among others, the

following have been produced.

In September 1989 the Main Street 2000 Development Corporation was inaugurated. Identifying

the need to revitalize Main Street, this initiative sought to make the area once more a vibrant

center for commerce. In 1991 plans were made to change Main Street from one way to a two-

27

way thoroughfare, widen the street, lampposts were to be installed and Market Square was to

be redesigned. In 1992 it was announced that a 7 million-dollar revitalization would take place,

with massive landscaping, specifically the creation of River Island Park. In 1997 Main Street

was once again made into a two-way street. Many plans were made, but very little came of a 10

million dollar, 10 year project.

In 2003, the “Downtown Riverfront Revitalization Plan”, prepared by the Urban Design Group

proposed the “revitalization” of an area spanning from Front Street to Cumberland Street, on the

East/West direction, and from Truman Drive to Front Street, to Florence Drive, linking once

more to Cumberland Street, on the North/South direction. A massive river front revitalization

program of about 130 acres along the banks of the Blackstone River, with a river frontage of

6,050 lineal feet. This program basically bypassed Main Street and called for a new downtown,

inches away.

In 2010 the “Connecting our Heritage – A Wayfinding Master Plan for Downtown Woonsocket”

was made. The vision of this project was to link Main Street to the Truman Bypass and to the

riverfront. A extensive greening and pedestrian pathway structure was designed to “improve

connectivity to the Blackstone River, improvements to the Truman Bypass to foster a pedestrian

friendly environment, integrating the planned Blackstone River Bikeway, in a manner that

generates enthusiasm and draws cyclists to the area, and introducing way finding signage

system.”

An impressive project of greening would cover most of the study area - from River Island Park to

Monument Square. Once more, Main Street proper is left out of the picture. None of the urban,

architectural, commercial, residential and economic issues are mentioned, let alone addressed.

The Main Street Livability Plan rolled out in April 2013 once more tried to resolve Main Street by

proposing to revitalize it through coordinated street-scaping and transportation improvements,

changes to land use regulations, and enhance bicycle and pedestrian amenities.

More focused and structural tools were put forth from 2014 onward. The Woonsocket Downtown

Redevelopment Area, 2014, Monument Square Redevelopment Plan of 2015, the Woonsocket

Downtown Overlay District in 2015, and the Omnibus Tax Stabilization Program for the

Woonsocket Downtown Redevelopment Area in 2016. These instruments were created with the

intent of laying down the policy and tax groundwork to aid Main Street.

It is at this juncture that the revitalization of Main Street now claims a final step in it’s almost 60

year quest for rebirth.

The Department of Planning and Development/Division of Planning is working on a Master Plan

for Main Street that restores the vital center of urban and economic development – urban

design. As the foundation for place, urban design gives the necessary physical context for

urban, architectural, cultural and economic activity. This master plan will Re-imagine Main

28

Street, preparing it for the future, in a balanced design between tradition and innovation,

inspiring and guiding residents and businesses alike to make Main Street their home, place of

work and business.

The Re-imagine Main Street Master Plan will address directly the fundamental urban and

architectural components of urban and architectural design that create place proper - the

foundation of urban and economic development. A clear and comprehensive vision and concept

will be designed to restore and re-imagine the structural urban components that make Main

Street the centre of Woonsocket, like many great cities across our Nation. This project will be

developed in conjunction with the Planning Board and directed by the Mayor.

(Rui Almeida – City Planner)

URBAN AGRICULTURE

In America, the transformation of agriculture from small locally owned farms to the mass

producing agribusiness has caused a dynamic shift in how the food we eat is grown, produced,

manufactured and delivered to us. Agribusiness, a term originally coined in 1957, began at the

turn of the 20th century through the influence of the Industrial Revolution impacting agriculture

through the mechanization of farming and transportation of food. The impact allowed for greater

productivity in farming and for food to be transported further and faster, reaching consumers all

over the US. After World War II, the industrialization of farming began to affect all aspects of

farming from breeding, crop production, farm machinery, distribution, processing and seed

supply, to agrichemicals, genetic modification marketing and retail. Starting in 1945, an annual

increase in productivity of 2% began, leading to the decrease in the number of individually

owned farms and the increase in farm size.

The impacts of the way we obtain our food has had many positive and negative impacts

affecting our environment, well being, and culture. With the established idea of agribusiness, the

globalization of food production in the 1950’s and 60’s increased rapidly. This allowed for most

Americans to have access to a steady supply of food from all over the world with ease of

access. Today, consumers of industrialized food do not have to wait to eat normally seasonal

food, it is available year round. Growing the massive amounts of food to meet the demands of a

globalized market created strain on the existing agribusinesses, causing farmers to start

focusing on one crop (monoculture) and to use chemical fertilizers and pesticides to increase

their yield. The environmental impact of such business has caused soil depletion of huge farms,

ecosystem imbalance through the introduction of chemicals and waste runoff, and pollution from

shipping food all over the world. When shopping in a supermarket, we usually do not know

where the food comes from or how it was grown.

Food that is produced through modern industrial agricultural practices has had many changes

on the quality of produce available in supermarkets today. Chemicals that are used in pesticides

and highly processed foods can potentially have impacts on bodily health depending upon

29

consumption. The globalization of the food industry has causeed the shipping time of produce to

increase greatly, decreasing the freshness of the food due to freeze and preserving techniques

for transit.

Woonsocket has two farmers markets that meet one day a week each, allowing the community

to have access to locally grown, fresh produce. There are forty-five locally owned restaurants,

fifteen fast food chains, ten convenience stores and one big box supermarket located within the

city. There are also three additional big box supermarkets located just passed the Woonsocket

city boundary that also have influence on food supply and the local economy.

A study in mid-coast Maine, found that nationally owned businesses only contribute 14% of

total earnings back into the local economy, mainly through paychecks for their employees.

Locally owned business have a much larger impact on the local grain economy, adding 50 to 70

% of positive economic impact into the local economy.

Woonsocket has the potential to create a local economy based on locally produced and

consumed food. Incorporating urban agriculture into the city, Woonsocket residents will have

access to healthy, local food that will positively impact overall health of the community. There is

potential for a city wide network of green spaces dedicated to urban agriculture that will greatly

substantiate the local grain economy with products and job creation. Using local green spaces

will make the availability of local, healthy, accessible food located within a short distance from

residential areas. The City will be able to have its own unique distribution system that will make

locally grown food easily accessible to everyone, including businesses and restaurants to use.

The Department of Planning and Development Division of Planning is developing a vision for

Woonsocket to use urban agriculture as a means to make the City more sustainable, affordable

and self-reliant. Urban agriculture is one of the best answers to increasing the availability of

fresh local produce at a significantly lower cost. Through urban agriculture, Woonsocket can

develop an entirely new local grain economy that every single member of the community can

participate in, creating jobs and economic opportunity.

The impact of this vision should be city wide and on a commercial scale, potentially starting with

smaller sites as a testing ground. Adults, elderly, children, men, women, organizations,

recreational groups, non-profits, small business owners, schools, restaurants and companies;

all a part of the Woonsocket community would come together to make this opportunity into a

grand project that will make our city sustainable.

(Jarret Katz – Principal Planner)

30

The Department of Planning and Development/Division of Planning will continue to partner

with the community in collecting data and experiences with the goal of making a citywide

presentation to inform and engage the City of Woonsocket in implementing this project.

This project will also have impact on the revision of the Woonsocket Comprehensive

Plan, namely in land subdivision regulations, zoning and food policy.

This project will be developed in conjunction with the Planning Board and directed by the

Mayor.

31

The City of Woonsocket, through the Department of Planning and Development/Division of

Planning creates and develops panoply of projects targeting a wide range of initiatives

promoting urban and economic development. Many of the projects that our Department

develops are funded from outside sources. The Division of Planning works on a wide variety of

grant applications seeking to fund City projects of diverse nature, from small to large grants:

cultural and artistic activities, infrastructure, green initiatives and economic activities. Grantors

range from private foundations and organization, State and Federal. Our grant services are

comprised of grant writing, management and administration, providing a full service from policy,

application to implementation and closing out grants.

The Planning Division is responsible for reviewing all new development activity within the City of

Woonsocket. This role includes the review of site plans, subdivisions, zoning map amendments,

annexations, and other development case types.

The Planning Division review process involves meetings with applicants; review periods for

comments and revisions; coordination of review comments from other departments and

agencies; presentations to the Planning Board; or other boards. Some case types, such as

zoning map amendments and annexations, also require review and approval by the Mayor and

City Council.

The Planning Board reviews all development cases, with the exception of administrative

subdivisions, which are reviewed at the staff level. The general duties of the Planning Board, in

accordance to Chapter X, Article 6, Section 3 of the Woonsocket Home Rule Charter, are to

serve in an advisory capacity to the several departments and agencies of the city. Make studies

and prepare plans and reports on the needs and resources of the city with reference to its

physical growth and development as affecting the health, safety, morals and general welfare of

the people. Such studies, plans and reports, shall concern the following:

(1) Land use and land use regulation.

(2) Transportation facilities.

(3) Public utilities.

(4) Public facilities including recreation areas, schools, fire stations, police

stations, and the like.

(5) Blighted areas including the designation of general areas for redevelopment

or renewal.

(6) Air and water pollution.

(7) Natural resources.

2016 GRANTS

PLANNING SUBMITTALS

32

(8) Protection from disaster.

(9) Economic and sociological characteristics of the city.

Prepare and adopt a comprehensive plan for the future development of the City. Such plan may,

among other things, show the proposed arrangement of land uses; transportation facilities; utility

systems; public buildings; renewal or redevelopment areas and historic sites to be preserved.

Prepare a capital budget and a comprehensive long-range capital improvement program for

submission to the City Council and the Mayor.

Advise and recommend on all proposed amendments to the city zoning ordinance, to the City

Council and the Mayor, and report to the city council or to the Mayor on any matter that may be

referred to the planning board by the city council or by the Mayor.

Call upon other departments, boards, and agencies of the City and upon regional, state, and

federal agencies for information and assistance necessary to the performance of its duties and

to cooperate with such regional, state and federal agencies on matters of community, regional

and state planning and development.

Regulate the subdivision of land within the city in accordance with the applicable general law.

Submit an annual report to the Mayor summarizing the work of the preceding year with

recommendations as to plans and action for future development, and to submit any other

reports called for by general law.

Exercise such powers and authority and perform such duties as are conferred or required by

state law concerning such boards and by City Ordinance enacted in conformity with said state

law.

SUBDIVISION FOR 2016

Minor Subdivision V & M Realty Diamond Hill Road: Subdivision approval of dividing lot into

27,007 and 44,867 square foot parcels. Approved 7-12-2016

Minor Subdivision of property at Woonsocket Assessor’s 46, lot 20, 1231 Diamond Hill Road

by Dan Rocco Baldelli, 81 Windsong Road, Cumberland, RI 02864: Approved 10-4-2016

Releasing Performance Bond for Oak Grove Phase I Subdivision off Louise Street: Ongoing

phased project in Oak Grove, right of way improvements reviewed and deemed complete.

Approved 12-6-2016

Diamond Hill Road Subdivision – Parking, Lot 60-18, Lots 52-10, 60-15, 60-18, Approved 2-1-

16

McMullan Ave. Portion of Abandonment , Approved 3-31-2016.

Diamond Hill Road V&M Realty Minor Subdivision P-B8 Lot 60-15, Approved 6-16-2016

33

Subdivision Diamond Hill Road, Grange Ave. Morris Street P-B6 Lot 46 Administrative

Subdivision AP-D3 Lots 15-16 & 15-61, Approved 8-31-2016.

Administrative Subdivision. Bernon Mills Condominiums Front Street Bernon Street & Court

Street. Approved 9-16-2016.

Administrative Subdivision.582 Manville Road Administrative Subdivision AP E5 Lots 29-30 &

29-67. Approved 9-16-2016.

Administrative Subdivision. Cass Park Basketball Courts AP 40 Lot 70. Approved 11-28-

2016.

Administrative Subdivision. Land Taking- Reservoir/ Bertenshaw/ Logee Street. Approved

12-15-2016.

ZONING ORDINANCES

Advice and Recommendation to Amend the Zoning Ordinance to Allow Variance for

Porches in Front Setback Areas: Zoning Board can grant variance for owners who want to

add porches to their property. Approved 3-1-2016.

Advice and Recommendation for Zoning Ordinance Creating a Downtown (Main Street

Area) Overlay District: Changes to the Overlay District such as, security gates prohibition,

parking restrictions, ground floor window transparency. Approved 3-1-2016.

Advice and Recommendation to Amend the Zoning Ordinance to Define Solar and Wind

Energy Uses in Districts : The addition of solar and wind energy to residential, commercial

and industrial to the Zoning Ordinance as a use so that special use permits are not required.

Approved 3-1-2016.

Advice & Recommendation: Amending the Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance

Plat 13 Lot 35 & Plat 14 Lots 232/332 & 433 from R-4 to MU-1; Plat 13 lots

14,18,128,134,190,230,279,280,286&287 and Plat 14 Lots 352,374,385,408 & 410 from MU-2

to MU-1 : Changing the future land use and zoning of the Blackstone and Arnold Street, that

were zoned as R-4 and many businesses in the area were zoned as MU-2. Recommendation to

change use to MU-1. Approved 4-5-2016.

Advice and Recommendation Amending the Zoning Ordinance to Add Uses: Aquaculture,

Vertical Farming & Indoor Agriculture: Expansion for uses of insular environmental farming,

seafood farming, vertical farming and/ or indoor farming. Approved 4-5-2016.

Advice and Recommendation Amending the Zoning Ordinance to Change Miscellaneous

and Technical Provisions: Approve amendment of technical provisions of Zoning Ordinance.

Approved 7-12-2016.

34

Amending the Zoning Ordinance Regarding Supermarkets: Exempting supermarkets from 3,000

square foot requirements. Approved 7-12-2016.

DESIGN REVIEW COMMISSION

Design guidelines are prepared for adoption by the Planning Board within the Design Review

Overlay District in accordance with Section 12.1. Design Review Overlay District of the City of

Woonsocket, Rhode Island Code of Ordinance Appendix C – Zoning. “All nonresidential

buildings, structures, improvements and facilities within zoning districts C-1, C-2, MU-1 and MU-

2 shall be regulated by both the requirements of the district in which they are located and the

requirements of this overlay district.” Guidelines proposed herein focus on C-2 Major

Commercial District, MU-2 Mixed Use Industrial/Commercial District, and I-1 Light Industrial

District zones.015.

“Design guidelines enhance the visual image of commercial and industrial development in Woonsocket, create a positive business environment, help expedite project review, and reflect positively on existing and potential development. Guidelines incorporate best practices in architecture, civil engineering, and landscape architecture and encourage low impact design and energy efficiency. As guidelines, they are not strict regulatory standards, recognizing that unique sites or uses may not be appropriate for all. The overall objective is to ensure that the intent and spirit of the design guidelines are followed.”

Architectural Design Exterior architectural appearance should support the success of the business, reflect positively

on adjacent land uses (especially less intensive land uses such as residential use), provide a

pleasing view for passing motorists and pedestrians, and create a positive image for economic

development in Woonsocket.

Site Plan Curb appeal, customer safety and environmental regulations have become increasingly important in site plan layout. Although site constraints such as parcel configuration, frontage length, slope and wetlands have historically dominated layout, regulatory requirements under the RIDOT Physical Alteration Permit curb cut approval, Americans with Disability Act requirements for handicapped accessibility, and RIDEM regulatory requirements for on-site stormwater management now are critical considerations in site plan development.

Signage Signage not only provides wayfaring information for businesses but should promote visual harmony with associated buildings, contribute toward creation of a unique sense of place, and reflect positively on Woonsocket.

35

Cases for 2016

116 Main Street Awning, Approved 4-5-2016

116 Main Street New Window and Signs, Approved 4-5-2016

2012 Comprehensive Plan

The Mayor and City Council approved the City of Woonsocket 2012 Comprehensive Plan on

April 4, 2012. The Comprehensive Plan is a guide for the location, character and extent of

proposed public and private development in the City of Woonsocket. The Comprehensive Plan’s

policies and recommendations will be implemented over time through many distinct decisions

including the rezoning and subdivision of land and the location and construction of public

improvements. The Comprehensive Plan provides the policy basis for the integration and

coordination of these decisions and actions.

The Comprehensive Plan also provides specific guidance for how the City’s development

regulations should be updated, enhanced, and streamlined to facilitate plan implementation.

Under the State’s planning statutes, the Comprehensive Plan must be updated no less than

every ten years to respond to changing conditions, unforeseen events and trends, and changing

objectives. Upon adoption of a Comprehensive Plan, the City’s land use ordinances and zoning

maps are to be amended to be consistent with the Plan. The Woonsocket Comprehensive

Plan was Municipally Approved in 04/04/2012, State Approved in 04/24/2012, and its

Plan/Approval Expiration is 04/23/2017.

Legal Basis

Under the Woonsocket Charter, Chapter X, Article 6, Section 3(c), the Planning Board is

required to

“Prepare and adopt a comprehensive plan for the future development of the city. Such plan

may, among other things, show the proposed arrangement of land uses; transportation

facilities; utility systems; public buildings; renewal or redevelopment areas and historic sites to

be preserved. No portion of the comprehensive plan or amendment thereto shall be adopted

by the planning board without a public hearing, notice of which shall be published as a paid

advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation in the city once a week for three (3)

successive weeks. Such a comprehensive plan shall serve as a guide to the planning board in

the discharge of its duties. Upon adoption of the comprehensive plan or portion or amendment

COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING

36

thereof, the planning board shall transmit the same to the city council and when approved with

or without modification by the city council by ordinance such comprehensive plan or portion or

amendment thereof shall become binding upon the city and all its departments, boards,

commission, office, and agencies. Any comprehensive plan or portion thereof may be modified

or amended by the city council following a public hearing. Prior to council consideration, said

modification or amendment shall be referred to the planning board for an advisory opinion. The

affirmative vote of at least two thirds (2/3) of the city council shall be necessary to enact any

modification or amendment to any comprehensive plan or portion thereof.”

The current Comprehensive Plan for the city of Woonsocket was approved in 2012, after a

complicated 3 year process. Within that timeframe much has occurred on the international,

national and local level requiring revisiting the vision, goals, objectives and policies to better

meet the current and future needs of the city as it moves forward in the contemporary economic

and social environment. Pursuant to § 45-22.2 of the Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning

and Land Use Regulation Act, the revision of the Woonsocket Comprehensive Plan will be

pursued.

The City of Woonsocket, since the first Comprehensive Plan was initiated some 27 years ago,

has changed. Its economic, social and cultural matrix continues to evolve and diversify. These

changes require attentive updating of vital data that creates a clear and more contemporary

image of the City.

The needs and aspirations of our citizens and businesses need to be continually assessed in

order to better understand the needs and aspirations of the city in order to design the vision and

concept(s) that Woonsocket’s development required. The multiple and complex components of

the city: Natural Resources, Recreation, Historic and Cultural resources, Housing, Economic

Development, Agriculture, Services and Facilities, Energy, Water Supply, Transportation,

Natural Hazards and Climate Change and Land Use, play an important role in ensuring a

harmonious and balanced development.

“Land use planning in the State of Rhode Island has been set up as a reciprocal system, where

State goals and policies are reflected in local plans and local plans have the ability to guide

State actions.” (Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning Standards Manual). These goals and

policies give shape and direction to the needs and aspirations of the city.

In our current economic, cultural and demographic climate, a new approach to urban and

economic development will create better tools for our future: more integration of the components

of the city, more flexibility and definition, utilizing visual elements as the basis for

communication, like Form-Based Code.

Form-Based Code is a planning tool that makes visual the design of the city. It is a method of

regulating development to achieve a specific urban form, to create a predictable public realm

primarily by controlling physical form, with lesser focus on land use, through city regulations.

This method of regulating and coding promotes place-based planning and development in order

for cities to become once again livable, prosperous, socially enabling, and beautiful, using

37

traditional urban forms as the visioning element, promoting sustainable urbanism (disciplined,

varied and permanent urban growth: forming walkable, type-diverse, and use-flexible buildings

and urban places). Urban design is the foundation that creates immersive environments in

which buildings, open spaces, landscape, and infrastructure are combined to produce

memorable, permanent places. Disciplines and validates existing settings, promotes the design

of new ones as integrated and connected physical places.

The Department of Planning and Development/Division of Planning will study and prepare the

revision of the Woonsocket Comprehensive Plan and the Form-based Code tools in the coming

years.

This process is typically a two year process, more if needed, to assess needs through data

collecting and community engagement in the initial phases and throughout the process,

culminating in the Implementation Program, Mapping and the Formal Adoption Process.

The Department will continue to meet with Rhode Island Statewide Planning regarding the

Comprehensive Plan revision.

The department will explore with Rhode Island Statewide Planning Form-Based Code tool for

better urban, economic and community development, regarding the Comprehensive Plan

revision.

Pursuant to § 45-22.2 of the Rhode Island Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Regulation

Act, the revision of the Woonsocket Comprehensive Plan will be pursued in conjunction with the

Planning Board and directed by the Mayor, working cooperatively with the city council.

(Rui Almeida – City Planner)

38

39

The Division of Housing and Community Development works cooperatively within the Director of

Planning and Development, in developing a strategy to implement Federal Funding through the

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program as it pertains to economic development,

neighborhood revitalization, public services, educational/child development, safe and affordable

housing and code enforcement. The Division administers all HUD funds that are dispersed

throughout the community as well as serves as the central agency for receiving and reviewing

all Federal applications as well as the primary contact for applicants during the review process.

In addition to these management functions, Division Staff also conducts the financial review of

applications for compliance with programs such as the Small Business Loan Program, the

Commercial Façade Restoration Program, the First Time Homebuyer Program, the Housing

Rehabilitation Program, along with Housing/Code Compliant Inspections, Project Management

of all Federally funded activities and the overall administration of the CDBG program.

The Division of Housing and Community Development is comprised of a Federal Grants

Administrator, who is also the Deputy Director of Housing and Community Development and

has a staff of two: a Construction Supervisor and a Housing Program Manager.

The purpose of the Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funds is to create safe and

affordable housing, and the City distributes these funds to further home ownership and address

deteriorating properties. $312,000 was received by the Dept. of Housing for FY 2016. HOME

funds are provided as forgivable and deferred loans and designed to maintain continuous

program income which allows for additional buyer and rehab projects in the City.

The Principal Housing Programs Technician performs project-based functions of the federally-

funded HOME Down Payment Assistance and HOME Repair Assistance Programs.

2016 projects include 2 first-time homebuyers that received down payment assistance and 10-

assisted units for home repair.

The Principal Housing Tech. also administers the federally-funded CDBG Home Repair

Assistance Programs for the Towns of Cumberland and North Smithfield, which are currently

under contract through June 30, 2017 at an agreed upon service fee.

HOUSING PROGRAMS

40

The home buyer and home repair programs process includes receipt and review of applications

for eligibility, completion of environmental reviews, and coordination of project tasks through

project completion. Ongoing monitoring throughout the affordability period ensures continued

compliance of HOME-assisted rental property.

The Home Investment Partnership consists of a Home Repair Cost Assistance Program and a

First Time Homebuyer Down Payment Assistance Program. Both programs require scheduling

and conducting physical inspections consisting of visual assessments for lead based paint

hazards and minimum code violations. Home Repair projects require a review of an

Environmental Lead inspection Report, preparation of Work Specifications & Work Standards

with Cost Estimates, scheduling and performing Pre-Bid Conferences as part of the bid

solicitation process, sealed bid openings, review of bids submitted for accuracy, acceptance and

award. The Construction Supervisor serves as a liaison between the Homeowner and

Contractor during the performance of the contracted work to achieve code compliance and

certified Lead Safe status. He maintains project files, conducts on site progress inspections for

quality control, prepares reports, approves invoices, certifies and issues payments to

contractors. He is responsible for scheduling and conducting monitoring inspections throughout

the period of affordability on previously completed projects to ensure that property owners are

maintaining the property to ensure the health and safety of the occupants and the general

public.

The Construction Supervisor is responsible for project assessment, plan review and inspections

for quality control and performance management for Community Development Block Grant

Projects (municipal buildings, parks, roads and commercial façade grants). He serves as the

Labor Standards Review Officer for prevailing wage requirements involving on site interviews

and gathering of personal information from employees on worksites, review and approval of

weekly certified payrolls, review and approval of Application & Certification for Payments (AIA

Document G702).

The Emergency Shelter Grant requires the Construction Supervisor along with Minimum

Housing Staff to conduct periodic inspections of the local Homeless Shelters as well as privately

owned offsite satellite units to ensure conformance with the State of RI Property Maintenance

Code to protect the health and safety of the occupants. Follow inspections are conducted for all

outstanding code violations noted on previous inspection to ensure that corrections have been

properly completed and the property is in full compliance.

The Construction Supervisor is responsible for administering the Blight Reduction Program

(Demolition) which requires site inspections, scheduling with asbestos inspectors, preparation of

work specifications, solicitation of bids from demolition contractors, maintaining project files,

CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISOR

41

monitoring during the process for safety and compliance for debris removal and backfilling,

gathering tipping slips and asbestos manifests, approving invoices and payments.

The Construction Supervisor also serves the towns of Cumberland & North Smithfield with their

CDBG Housing Repair Programs whose contracts are approved by the Woonsocket City

Council. He performs the same project based functions of drafting specs and cost estimates,

bid solicitations, inspections and reports, invoice approval and payments.

Accomplishments of the Division of Housing & Community Development

The accomplishments of the Division of Housing & Community Development, by the Deputy Director of Housing & Community Development, the Construction Supervisor and the Housing Program Manager in this report span from June 8th, 2015 to February 2017.

Currently the Division manages a total of 23 current activities for 2016, 14 current activities for 2015, & 5 current activities for 2014, along with working closely with the CDBG Advisory Board. PY2015 (June – August of 2015)

The Division successfully oversaw and managed the planning consultant hired to write sections of the CDBG application. The Division participated in the writing of the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Annual Action Plan along with submitting the City’s CDBG Comprehensive Plan and Annual Action Plan to the Department of HUD. The City was awarded $1,548,433.00 in CDBG, HOME & ESG funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

PY2016 (Submitted in May of 2016)

The Division successfully oversaw, wrote and submitted the City’s CDBG (Year 2) Annual Action Plan.

The City was awarded $1,177,671.00 in CDBG, HOME & ESG funds from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. PY2017 (To Be Submitted in May of 2017)

The Vision will be overseeing, writing and will submit the City’s CDBG (Year 3) Annual Action Plan.

PY2015 CDBG/Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER)

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SERVICES

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT

42

The Division successfully oversaw, wrote and submitted the City’s CDBG CAPER for the previous program year PY2014. The Department of Housing & Urban Development notified the City in writing, that the CAPER was successfully submitted and the City was following and was fulfilling its mission with the previous Comprehensive Plan (2010) and Annual Action Plan (2014).

PY2016 CDBG/Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER)

The Division successfully oversaw, wrote and submitted the City’s CDBG CAPER for the previous program year PY2015. The Department of Housing & Urban Development notified the City in writing, that the CAPER was successfully submitted and the City was following and was fulfilling its mission with the previous Comprehensive Plan (2015) and Annual Action Plan (2015).

Mulveys 40 South Main Street (HOME/CHDO set-aside June – November of 2015)

Serving as the City’s liaison, the Division orchestrated the documentation and fiduciary management of $300,000.00 that was awarded to NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley. The Division re-documented the project because of documentation/forms (CHDO checklist/certification, ERR’s, etc.) and the timeframe for when it was first submitted had elapsed. All documentation had to be re-created. The request for drawdown was honored and a check was released to NeighborWorks Blackstone River Valley in November of 2015.

Le Moulin Commercial Façade Restoration Project (June - July 2015)

The Division was able to recover $4,396.80 of CDBG Commercial Façade Restoration funds that were awarded back in 2010. This event originated when the previous owner tried to short sale the Le Moulin mill site, before an auction could take place. The City holds liens on projects such as this until the agreement (MOU has been fulfilled, 5 year typical time period). This particular MOU was to expire August 30, 2015. The MOU’s are structure in a step-down fashion. Since the previous owner did not fulfill their obligation, they were required to back to the City’s CDBG fund that percentage (10%) in the final year.

WHA/Environmental Review Records (August - September 2015)

The Planning Department for the past few years has provided technical assistance to the Woonsocket Housing Authority for Environmental Review Records (ERR’s). ERR’s are used by Public Housing Authorities to document and update HUD on capital improvement projects and upgrades to family developments, high-rises, scattered sites and administrative buildings. Through the Planning Department, I successfully completed and submitted to HUD 8 ERR’s on behalf of the WHA.

WHA/Environmental Review Records (June - August 2016)

Through the Planning Department, the Division successfully completed and submitted to HUD, 7 separate ERR’s on behalf of the WHA. The WHA was billed for time spent/reimbursement on this project.

WHA/Environmental Review Records (2017)

Through the Planning Department, the Division anticipate working on ERR’s for the WHA later this year.

43

Other Responsibilities Outside the General Scope of Work (June 2015 -2017)

The Division successfully wrote and submitted an RI Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission that resulted in an award of $20,000.00. These funds will be utilized in the replacement and restoration of the existing doors (main entrance). This will be phase one of this project and phase two will be tentatively ramped up in 2018.

Successfully wrote and submitted an RI Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission that resulted in an award of $111,403.00 for the American French Genealogical Society (AFGS). These funds will be utilized in the construction of a new ADA compliant entrance with a new elevator. AFGS’s project will break ground in later 2017.

The Division has already awarded $153,000.00 in CDBG funding for the Commercial Facade Restoration program (3 projects) and $40,000.00 in Small Business Loan program (1 project).

Work closely with the Construction Supervisor and Minimum Housing to participate on site visits for housing issues and compliance.

Submit advertisements, create RFP’s, participate in pre-bid meetings and bid openings for projects pertaining to and funded through the CDBG program.

Project manage architectural/construction projects that are funded through the CDBG program. Collaborate and work with the Public Works Department when road reconstruction projects are funded through CDBG.

ESG Funds

ESG funds are utilized to assist our local social service non-profits (s) to operate our local homeless shelters which provides safe haven for residents when in need of shelter services to avoid homelessness. These funds are also utilized to provide rental assistance to move individuals and families out of the homeless shelters and into more mainstream rental units.

HOME Funds

Home funds are utilized within the community to help assist with down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and property owners who need to perform repairs for code compliance.

CHDO funds are also a part of the HOME program. Funds are set aside to provide start up funding for affordable housing projects through local housing non-profits.

The City through its Planning Department utilizes HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) and Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds, to provide affordable housing opportunities throughout the community.

HOUSING AND DEVELOPMENT

44

ESG Funds

ESG funds are utilized to assist our local social service non-profits (s) to operate our local homeless shelters which provides safe haven for residents when in need of shelter services to avoid homelessness. These funds are also utilized to provide rental assistance to move individuals and families out of the homeless shelters and into more mainstream rental units.

HOME Funds

Following funds are utilized within the community to help assist with down payment assistance for first-time homebuyers and repair assistance for property owners who need to perform repairs for code compliance.

Community Housing Development Organization (CHDO) funds are also a part of the HOME program. Funds are set aside to provide funding for affordable housing projects through local housing non-profits.

Here is a summary of rehab and buyer projects for calendar year 2016:

Completed Woonsocket HOME-Funded Buyer Projects:

2 Single family properties.

Application are currently in under review for 2 mufti-unit and 1 single family property.

Completed Woonsocket HOME-Funded Rehab Projects:

7 Single family and 1 3-unit building.

The program received HOME Program Income of approximately $95,350 (est. 14

payoffs/discharges) to be used in future HOME projects.

Completed 2016 Cumberland CDBG Home Rehab.*:

2 Single family properties.

North Smithfield CDBG Home Rehab.*:

* The City of Woonsocket is receiving approximately $1870 per project (may vary based on time

spent and size of project) from the Town of North Smithfield and Cumberland for administering

their CDBG rehab. Programs based on the July 2015 through June 2017 contracts. These

funds are deposited in the Woonsocket Home (federally funded buyer and rehab) program

application processing and underwriting revenue account.

45

46

The Division of Zoning & Building Inspection & Construction works cooperatively within the

Director of Planning and Development, providing the City with inspection and compliance

services, insuring compliance with local and State building codes.

The Division of Zoning & Building Inspection & Construction is a team of eleven: a Building

Official Zoning Officer/ADA Compliance, Building Inspector, Electrical Inspector,

Plumbing/Mechanical Inspector, Chief Housing Inspector, 2 Housing Inspectors, a Minimum

Housing Clerk, Zoning/Building Clerk and an Office Manager. In 2016 three of its members were

new staff additions: Brad Ward (Building Official – Supervisor of the Division of Zoning &

Building Inspection & Construction), Jacob Neves (Housing Inspector) and June Mousseau

(Office Manager).

In 2016, four new team members joined this Division. Brad Ward (Building Official), Carl

Johnson (Zoning Officer/ADA Compliance), Jacob Neves (Housing Inspector) and June

Mousseau (Office Manager).

Brad R. Ward was hired in August 28, 2016 to head the Division of Zoning & Building Inspection

& Construction. Mr. Ward has extensive experience in superintendent utilities and HVAC,

building and zoning official, and utilities inspection roles. Brad has worked for towns and cities

across the State of Rhode Island, such as Town of Hopkinton, Town of Narragansett and the RI

Air National Guard/Air force Reserves, with a career 35 years in the making. His expertise

includes assisting the public in understanding technical aspects of building and zoning

regulations, review construction drawings to verify code compliance for permit issuance,

construction project inspection, appeals hearing assistance, flood zone compliance, and large

water and sewer project inspection. Mr. Ward holds a Bachelor’s in Natural Resource Science,

majoring in Soil Science, from the University of Rhode Island, Kingstown, Rhode Island.

Carl Johnson, was hired in April of 2016 as the new Zoning Official/ADA Compliance Officer.

Mr. Johnson has an extensive career background in management of 20 years, managing

budgets, supervise, hire, train, implement performance reviews, and council team members.

Since 2014 Carl has served as the Assistant Zoning Official in the Town of North Smithfield, RI.

His experience includes enforcing zoning ordinance, prepare cases for Municipal Court, prepare

applications for Zoning Board of Review meetings, works with Planning and Development

departments to improve economic development as well as assist citizens and businesses with

47

needs and concerns regarding zoning issues and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Carl is

ICC Certified Zoning Inspector, has completed FEMA Jurisdictional Threat and Hazard

Identification and has a R.I. EMA Mitigation Planning for Local Government Officials

Certification. Mr. Johnson is a member of the International Code Council, State of Rhode Island

Governor’s Commission on Accessibility, Beacon Charter High School Theatre Advisory Board,

and a Member at Large of the Academy Players of Rhode Island Board of Directors. Carl has a

R.I. A.S. Business Management Degree from Johnson and Wales University, Providence,

Rhode Island.

The Zoning Official/ADA Compliance is the Zoning Official of the City, directly supervises the

activities of the Zoning Clerk/Typist in the enforcement of the City’s Zoning Ordinance and

provides services to the Zoning Board of Review. Also serves as ADA Compliance Officer for

the City in the enforcement and implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act and

Rhode Island ADA laws and regulations. Directs the clerical activities of the Zoning Clerk/Typist

in processing zoning variance requests, special use permits, public notifications, and the

preparation of the docket and other legal records, performs in-field verifications and follow-up

inspections. Directly corresponds with and appears before the Zoning Board of Review at each

of its scheduled meetings. Meets with property owners, developers, architects, and engineers

reviewing construction proposals and the application of the Woonsocket Zoning Code and ADA

Regulations. Identifies areas of nonconformities throughout the City and assist the Director of

Planning & Development in the development of remedial plans and ordinances. Sends out

violation notices and appears before the Woonsocket Municipal Court as required.

Jacob Neves was hired in March 28, 2016 as the Housing Inspector. Mr. Neves come to us with

comprehensive and profound knowledge and experience in the contracting and construction. A

builder himself for more than fourteen years, Jacob has worked in all phases of construction and

maintenance, residential and commercial, producing pricing and estimate bids, on-site trouble

shooting, demolition, precision framing, blocking and fortification, emergency clean up, building

alterations, among many other related duties and tasks that he has performed throughout his

career. Mr. Neves has worked for prestigious institutions such as New England Institute of

Technology in Warwick/East Greenwich, Rhode Island, and Gasper Neves Contractor in

Warren, RI. Jacob graduated from Mt. Hope High School in Bristol, Rhode Island.

June Mousseau was hired in September 14, 2016 as the new Office Manger. Mrs. Mousseau

brings to the table a wide and valuable array of experience in customer service and office

48

technical skills. For over twenty years June has dedicated herself to helping others in roles such

as Nursing Assistant and Teacher Assistant. June has held positions in the Woonsocket

Education Department, Woonsocket Head Start, Koch Eye Associates and CNA Home Health

Care of RI. With excellent oral communication skills, proficient in Microsoft Office, office

procedures, Mrs. Mousseau is self-motivated, an independent, problem solving, responsible and

an excellent team player. June graduated from Woonsocket High School, has a diploma in

Childcare/Human Services from Woonsocket Vocational School, a Certified Nursing Assistant, a

Certified Teachers Assistant and has completed one year in General Studies at Community

College of Rhode Island (CCRI).

The Building Official has many duties, such as performing daily administration and enforcement

of all federal, state and local building codes, as well as other regulations involved with building

construction of all types, directs the enforcement of all federal, state and local codes pertaining

to electrical and plumbing/mechanical work by other staff inspectors, responsible for the

enforcement of state minimum housing codes by other staff personnel, as well as all other

relevant codes pertaining to the City of Woonsocket housing units, identifies areas of non-

compliance to all codes and existing non-conformances throughout the City of Woonsocket,

issues violation notices as required, and appear before the Woonsocket Municipal Court,

appears at City Council meeting when required by the Director, and reports to the Director any

problems that affect the work of the division.

The Housing Inspector conducts field inspection of dwellings in order to determine their fitness

for habitation in area of examination that include structural safety, sanitary facilities, means of

egress, lighting, ventilation, electrical equipment, heating equipment potential for overcrowding

and other essential services such as peeling/flaking of paint and potential lead hazards,

conducts examinations under general departmental guidelines and procedures of the City of

Woonsocket and the Rhode Island Property Maintenance Code, prepares inspection reports,

including documenting the findings of an inspection, and communicates these findings of staff,

property owners and contractors verbally and in writing, maintains and updates inspection

reports on City computer software, investigates complaints of alleged ordinance violations,

tracks and monitors ordinance violations to ensure timely and efficient remedy and/or repair of

violations, interacts and communicates with the public, contractor, landlords, and dwelling,

reports daily to the Senior Housing Inspector and assists Senior Housing Inspector as needed.

49

The Office Manager/Secretary-Planning & Zoning prepares and types correspondence both

independently and at the direction of the Building & Inspection division management personnel,

receives and processes all building, electrical and mechanical permits, compiles information for,

and assists in the preparation of, various periodic reports concerning the activities of the

Building & Inspection division, maintains all financial and account information for the Building &

Inspection division, relays directives from the Planning Director to the all employees of the

Building & Inspection division as needed, takes telephone calls, emails and in person requests

from the general public. Refers inquiries to inspectors as needed, maintains schedule of

inspections for the Building & Inspection division, notifies inspectors as to any changes in

scheduling and attends meetings and produces written notes and/or minutes as requested by

the Planning Director.

The Building Division is comprised of the Building Code enforcement Department and the

Minimum Housing Inspectors. The Minimum Housing section of the Department is responsible

for ensuring that existing housing accommodations are in compliance with the State Property

Maintenance Code and local ordinances. Upon receipt of a complaint from an occupant, an

inspection of the premises is conducted and all violations are documented and notification is

sent to the owner. The premises are monitored and re-inspected until all violations have been

remedied.

Compliance with the Minimum Housing standards is enforced by the Minimum Housing Division

under the direction of Mr. Armand Binette, Senior Housing Inspector. Mr. Binette has worked

for the City for over 13 years and is extremely competent in the appropriate implementation of

the housing regulations. He is supported by two inspectors who evaluate and enforce the

housing regulations and one Housing Clerk. One of the inspectors, Jacob Neves, was hired in

April of this year to replace Inspector Herve Tellier who has recently initiated steps to retire in

May of 2017. Mr. Tellier’s high degree of competency and attention to detail were the foundation

of his outstanding accomplishments and performance within the profession. Finally, the daily

office operations are meticulously executed by the Housing Clerk, Nicole Haynes, who

consistently exhibits a calm and professional demeanor in stressful conversations with the

complainants and landowners. Furthermore her exceptional organizational skills are a critical

component of the effective operation of the department.

50

There are 403 properties with active minimum housing violations. These properties are re-

inspected every 30 – 40 days until all violations are corrected.

There are 35 properties with active public nuisance letters for trash and debris issues that we

re-inspect weekly.

There are 42 properties with overgrown grass and/or landscape that we re-inspect weekly.

(Summer months)

There are 228 vacant buildings, representing 515 vacant units, that this department monitors to

ensure they are secured and not a threat to the public.

There are 58 active court cases which are heard in Municipal Court. Court is typically in session

twice a month with an average of 12-18 cases heard. During calendar year 2016, 35 housing

cases were brought up to code compliance and dismissed from court. The average fine was

$323.00 plus $35.00 court costs per case. This resulted in the collection of $12,085.00 dollars in

fines and allowed the City to take ownership of a blighted structure.

The department averages 0-3 complaints and 3 visual/drive by related violations per day.

The Division also averages 26 telephone calls per day.

The governing regulations utilized by this department for enforcement standards are the State of

R.I. Property Maintenance Code and the Woonsocket Code of Ordinances.

The Building Code Enforcement Division with the new Building Official, Brad R. Ward, the Office

Manager, June Mousseau have succefully worked through a tremendous backlog of work,

which needed to be processed upon entering their respective positions. It became a team effort

with the entire staff and the assistance of a retired worker called back into service (Lorraine

Provencher) to expeditiously resolve the outstanding permits and other related issues. The

existing employees Leo Cote, Building Inspector, Bernie Bernard, Electrical Inspector and

Donald Dalpe, Plumbing & Mechanical Inspector were all critical contributors in completing the

excessive accumulation of work.

The office was finally at full staffing with the return of Joan LaFrançois in November of 2016.

Staff processes permits, provide customer service and managing finances with respect to

permits fees, to include payment of State agencies regarding CE/ADA fees and Radon fee

collections.

Outlined below is the number of permits issued within each category by the Inspection. At least

one inspection was conducted per permit issued to ensure compliance with the code.

ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF MINIMUM HOUSING DIVISION AND

CHIEF HOUSING INSPECTOR REPORT

51

Number of Plumbing Permits issued in 2016 289

Number of Mechanical Permits Issued in 2016 271

Number of Electrical Permits Issued in 2016 802

Number of Building Permits issued in 2016 863

The total number of permit fees collected $319,882.35

All inspectors of the department are on call 24/7 to respond as needed to emergency situations

involving the Fire & Police Departments and natural disasters. The office staff on average

responds to 12 or more after hours call backs per month throughout the year. The winter time

usually has more response issues and at times during this period there are multiple call backs

on the same evening. The majority of these responses are critical health and safety issues that

require immediate action to effectively address the unsafe conditions to include the relocation of

all occupants.

Office staff interacts with the general public and licensed professionals to provide information on

a wide range of projects. The projects include, but not limited to, Building and zoning code

compliance, Code changes, Zoning Regulations and recommend the best approach to take for

the success of the project. Inspections are performed on a daily basis to ensure that compliance

of plan documents and/or violations corrections are completed in accordance with all applicable

regulations.

The new Zoning Official and ADA Compliance Officer was hired in April of 2016 when the

Administration and City Council decided to separate the Zoning Official duties from the Office of

the Building Official.

Reviews plans for numerous projects submitted to the Division of Planning and

Development.

Sentry Storage on Mendon Rd

The former Lowe’s Location on Diamond Hill Rd.

ZONING OFFICIAL/ADA COMPLIANCE

52

The former Wal-Mart on Diamond Hill Rd.

The trampoline park at the former Shaw’s Supermarket on Diamond Hill Rd

The former Woonsocket Middle School

Proposed uses at the Plastics Group and Fairmount Mill on Fairmount St

The renovation and repurposing of 66 Providence St.

A pool that was partially built on city property at 234 Patton St

Zoning cases

12 Lot Mergers by request

1 Modification

52 Violation Letters

56 Zoning Certificates (since June)

Inspected junk and scrap yards for yearly renewal of licenses

Below are the Court Cases

675 Park Ave, illegal business in a residence. Still active.

336 Cumberland Hill Rd, inoperable vehicles at business. Still active.

229 Oregon Ave. batting cage constructed on property line. Resolved.

472 Knight St. inoperative and unregistered vehicles, Active in Superior Court

168-170 Spring St., illegal fence. Still active.

Zoning Board of Review cases

12 Applications heard

o 7 Commercial

o 5 Residential

Ordinances revised

5.3 Restriction on Storage of Vehicles

53

6.2 Screening and Fencing

Live/Work Spaces

The Compliance Officer for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the City’s contact for the

State of Rhode Island Governor’s Commission on Disabilities State Coordinator for Accessibility

and also serves on the RIGCD Accessibility and Election Committee.

2016 Projects

Worked with the Engineering and Public Works Department to complete the ADA accessibility of the Crosswalk at World War 2 Memorial Park on Social St. Complete

Worked with the RIGCD to rectify sound deficiencies in Harris Hall. Complete

Worked with the RIGCD to rectify ADA violations at 401 Clinton St (Family Dollar) ongoing

Inspected the polling places in Woonsocket for both the primary and general election for ADA compliance

Investigated several other complaints of alleged ADA violations

Conducted ADA Compliance inspection of Cass Park

Projections for 2017

In 2017 the City of Woonsocket is poised to have substantial growth in both residential and

commercial areas of the city. Part of the Zoning Official’s duties is to assist the Administrative

Officer with the development of the Comprehensive Plan.

With the improving economic climate - including potential new businesses, existing home

improvements and sales, and new homes being built, we estimate that the amount of Zoning

Certificates will increase. The Zoning Board of Review has estimated an increase in the number

of inquiries to build in the city. The number of existing zoning violations in the city will need to be

addressed as well.

The Zoning Official is developing a more user friendly Zoning Board of Review application that

will better allow the board to increase the quality of the decision making process and

consequent deliberations.

54

There is new legislation approved by the General Assembly regarding Accessory Family

Dwellings (in-law apartments), and Zoning Board/Planning Board procedures will be presented

to the City Council for adoption.

For the ADA Compliance Officer, there is considerable work ahead including updating the City’s

website to include an ADA page. The ADA Compliance Officer will be working in conjunction

with the Division of Planning in the Cass Park renovation project to ensure better accessibility

for residents with disabilities.

55

Produced by:

The City of Woonsocket

Department of Planning and Development

169 Main Street

Woonsocket, Rhode Island 02895

Telephone: (401) 767-9236

(401) 767-9237

Fax: (401) 766-9312

http://www.woonsocketri.org/planning-development

56