Development News for Lincoln, Rhode Island

Planning Board Approves $107,110 Remediation Bond for Tuscan Properties

The Planning Board discussed and approved a remediation bond of $107,110 for Tuscan Properties, located on Old Woods Plissette Pike behind the mall. The property owner had begun clearing and construction without proper permits, leading to the need for erosion controls and a bond to cover potential restoration costs if the project fails. The town engineer provided an estimate for erosion control measures based on an aerial photograph of the disturbed area.

Public Hearing to be Scheduled for Sidewalk Fee-in-Lieu Amendment

The Planning Board agreed to hold a public hearing for a proposed amendment to the land development and subdivision regulations concerning Section 23, relating to fees in lieu of sidewalk installation. This amendment would allow the town to request a fee from developers when sidewalks are waived, with these funds to be placed in a dedicated sidewalk fund for repair or construction of new sidewalks in areas of need. The board also discussed clarifying that the fund could be used for both new construction and repairs. The motion to schedule the public hearing was made and seconded.

Kirkbray Country Club Solar Project Denied by Planning Board

The Planning Board held a public hearing and discussed a Major Land Development and Unified Development Review for a 420-kilowatt AC ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system at Kirkbray Country Club, intended to be located on the northern portion of the property housing tennis courts and a pool. Key issues included the definition of 'minor scale ground-out use', whether the energy must be used on-site (directly metered), and if the solar facility qualifies as an accessory use subordinate to the country club. The applicant argued the system would be an accessory use, citing its contribution to renewable energy goals and the town's comprehensive plan, while also emphasizing its financial and community contributions. Opponents raised concerns about environmental impact (tree removal), aesthetics, noise, property values, and the commercial nature of the project in a residential area. The board deliberated extensively on the interpretation of 'lot' versus 'property', 'use', and 'customarily incidental subordinate' within the ordinance. Ultimately, the board made findings of fact that the project pertains to a single lot (lot 23), there's insufficient evidence of power consumption on that lot to assess the 125% limitation, and the ordinance's 'use' refers to direct electricity consumption for appliances, not net metering. Based on these findings, the board denied the application for a special use permit and the major land development, citing that the project is not eligible for a special use permit and does not meet the criteria for a minor scale facility.