(The following is not a verbatim transcript of comments or discussion that occurred during the meeting, but rather a summarization intended for general informational purposes.  All motions and votes are the official records). 

         

 

CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL

Regular Monthly Meeting

 

 

REGULAR MEETING - CITY COUNCIL

 

-FEBRUARY 17, 2026-

 

Regular meeting of the City Council was held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 in the Council Chambers, City Hall, 869 Park Ave., Cranston, Rhode Island.

 

I.            CALL MEETING TO ORDER:

The meeting was called to order at 7:02 P.M. by the Council President.

 

II.            ROLL CALL:

 

Roll call showed the following members present: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano (appeared at 7:45 p.m.), Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

Also Present: Anthony Moretti, Chief of Staff, Nicole Renzulli, Governmental Affairs & Communications Director; John Verdecchia, Assistant City Solicitor, Michael Marcello, City Council Legal Counsel; Mike Igoe, City Controller, David DiMaio, City Council Budget Analyst; Rosalba Zanni, Assistant City Clerk/Clerk of Committee; Heather Finger, Stenotypist.

 

III.            PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by the body.

 

Council President Wall asked for a moment of silence for the victims of the shooting at the Pawtucket Ice Rink and also for the passing of former Council President Carlo Spirito, Jr.

 

IV.            ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS, COMMENDATIONS AND CITATIONS

 

None.

 

V.            APPROVAL OF MINUTES

 

·         Approval of the minutes of the January 20, 2026 Regular Council Meeting

 

On motion by Councilman Traficante, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to approve the minutes of the January 20, 2026 regular meeting and they stand approved as recorded. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilman Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall 8. Councilman Campopiano was not present for roll call.

 

VI.            PUBLIC HEARINGS AND PUBLIC COMMENT — DOCKETED ITEMS

 

Kevin Essington, 60 Chiswick Rd., appeared to speak in favor of proposed Ordinance 1-26-01 and stated that Chiswick Rd. is a residential street of approximately twenty family homes. Residents include eight school-age children and nine residents over the age of 65. The road is just 500’ long and is the shortest point between Edgewood’s busiest streets, Broad St. and Narragansett Blvd. Navigation apps, such as Google Maps, send drivers traveling from Warwick and Allens Ave. connection to I-95 on a two-minute shortcut down Chiswick Rd. The City conducted three traffic and speed studies on the road in 2022, 2023 and 2024 showing that the volume was, in his words, extreme, up to nearly 1,100 cars per day. Navigation apps also send truck drivers down this road, large delivery trucks roll down the street each morning. Out of State drivers drive down this street regularly. The street is narrow, just 28’ wide and the East side of the road is a steep hill creating a dangerously short sight line up at the top of the hill. The Broad St. intersection has a pronounced and dangerous Northbound blind spot created by a private retaining wall and plantings. Adding high traffic volume to these dangerous conditions is a tragedy waiting to happen. He urged the City Council to adopt this low-cost common-sense Ordinance.

 

Nick Lima, Registrar and Director of Elections for the Cranston Canvassing Authority, appeared to speak regarding proposed “Resolution requesting the General Assembly consider swift action to change the date of the September 2026 Rhode Island Statewide Primary Election due to concerns regarding the Labor Day Holiday” and stated that since the Committee meeting, the Bill has passed the full House of Representatives and is told that the Senate will consider it in Committee and then possibly for passage when they resume from their break after this week. He thanked Council President Wall as well as Minority Leader Councilman Campopiano for introducing that bi-partisan Resolution at the request of his Office.

 

Adam Crowley, 77 Chiswick Rd., appeared to speak via Zoom in favor of proposed Ordinance 1-26-01 and echoed statements made by Mr. Essington. He stated that, as a father of the youngest child and the oldest and deafest dog on the street, they have seen how dangerous the road can be. He urged passage of this Ordinance and address this issue with some common sense solutions.

 

VII.            RESOLUTIONS

 

RESOLUTION HONORING THE LIFE AND MEMORY OF DOLORES (RAVO) MELILLO. Sponsored by Councilmen Andujar, Buonanno and Traficante.

 

Councilwomen Graziano, Vaziri, Councilman Ritz, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall asked to be added as co-sponsors.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilman Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall-8. Councilman Campopiano was not present for roll call.

 

RESOLUTION EXPRESSING THE SUPPORT OF THE CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL FOR 2026-S 2280, AN ACT RELATING TO EDUCATION HEALTH AND SAFETY OF PUPILS. Sponsored by Councilman Ritz and Council Vice-President Haroian.

 

Councilwomen Graziano, Vaziri, Councilmen Andujar, Buonanno, Traficante, Campopiano and Council President Wall asked to be added as co-sponsors.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

RESOLUTION HONORING MICHAEL C. TRAFICANTE ON HIS RETIREMENT FROM THE CRANSTON SCHOOL DEPARTMENT. Sponsored by Mayor Hopkins, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall

 

Mayor Hopkins recognized former First Lady Ann Traficante in the audience and welcomed her back in the Council Chambers.

 

Mayor Hopkins, on behalf of the City of Cranston, thanked Mr. Traficante for his extraordinary service and for his leadership and wished him nothing but joy and fulfillment in his well-earned retirement. He presented Mr. Traficante with a Citation.

 

Council President Wall and Councilman Traficante presented Mr. Traficante a Citation from the entire City Council.

 

Director Renzulli presented Mr. Traficante with a Citation from Representative Paplauskas and the House of Representatives.

 

Mr. Traficante thanked Mayor Hopkins and City Council for the recognition.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Councilwoman Vaziri, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilman Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -8. Councilman Campopiano was not present for roll call.

 

RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY MONTH IN CRANSTON THROUGHOUT THE MONTH OF FEBRUARY. Sponsored by Councilmen Buonanno, Andujar, Ritz and Councilwoman Vaziri.

 

Councilman Traficante, Council Vice-President Haroian and Councilman Traficante asked to be added as co-sponsors.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilman Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall-8. Councilman Campopiano was not present for roll call.

 

RESOLUTION COMMEMORATING THE 182? ANNIVERSARY OF DOMINICAN REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE ON FEBRUARY 27, 2026. Sponsored by Councilmen Buonanno and Andujar

 

Councilwomen Graziano, Vaziri, Councilmen Ritz, Traficante, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall asked to be added as co-sponsors.

 

On motion by Councilman Ritz, seconded by Councilwoman Vaziri, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilman Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -8. Councilman Campopiano was not present for roll call.

 

VIII.            REPORTS OF COMMITTEES

 

A.    Report from the Chair, Councilwoman Vaziri, on the CLAIMS COMMITTEE meeting of February 2, 2026 Claims Paid (no votes)

 

No action needed.

 

B.     Report from the Chair, Council Vice-President Haroian, on the SAFETY SERVICES & LICENSES COMMITTEE meeting held February 2, 2026 (no action, no votes)

 

C.    Report from the Chair, Councilman Andujar, on the FINANCE COMMITTEE meeting held February 2, 2026:

 

1.      RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING REAL ESTATE TAX ABATEMENTS AS REQUESTED BY THE TAX ASSESSOR AND RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE JANUARY 5, 2026.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice- President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

2.      RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING TANGIBLE TAX ABATEMENTS AS REQUESTED BY THE TAX ASSESSOR AND RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL BY THE FINANCE COMMITTEE JANUARY 5, 2026.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

3.      CONSIDERATION OF TAX INTEREST WAIVER APPROVALS

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, it was voted to approve the above list of tax interest waiver approvals. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

4.      CONSIDERATION OF TAX INTEREST WAIVER DENIALS

 

None.

 

D.    Report from the Chair, Councilwoman Graziano, on the PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE meeting held February 4, 2026 (no action, no votes)

 

E.     Report from the Chair, Councilman Andujar, on the ORDINANCE COMMITTEE meeting held February 4, 2026: (vote may be taken)

 

12-25-2     ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF CHAPTER 17 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON, 2005, ENTITLED ‘ZONING’ (CHANGE OF ZONE - 0 PLAINFIELD PIKE, CRANSTON, RHODE ISLAND ) (DUNKIN DONUTS). Petition filed by RLF IV Terminals, SPE, LLC — Owners and Mineral Enterprises, Inc. — Applicants. As Amended in Committee 2/4/2026.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

1-26-01    ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 10, CHAPTER 12, SECTION 280 OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON CODE OF ORDINANCES, 2005, ENTITLED ‘TRAFFIC PROHIBITED ON CERTAIN STREETS — LOCAL ACCESS ONLY”. Sponsored by Councilwoman Graziano. As Amended in Committee 2/4/2026.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Councilman Campopiano, it was voted to approve the above Ordinance.

 

Under Discussion:

Councilmen Buonanno, Campopiano, Traficante, Ritz, Councilwoman Vaziri, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall asked to be added as co-sponsors.

 

Councilwoman Graziano stated that at the last Ordinance Committee meeting, there was a lengthy discussion regarding Chiswick Rd. and it was discussed how the Council did not receive a letter from the Traffic Engineer, however, Director Renzulli reached out to the Traffic Engineer who then issued a revised letter to us on February 9, 2026. It was originally dated December, 2023. In the letter, he did note that he agreed with the proposal to do traffic prohibited on certain streets with local access only. He thought that would be the best resolution at this time other than physical things like speed bumps, one-way traffic or flashing signs.

 

Director Renzulli stated that the Traffic Engineer did show her a file dating back to 2012 and through a few Councils and a few Administrations and this has been an ongoing problem. She is glad that we have come to some sort of resolution. He did say that the current Ordinance 10.12.100 would have prohibiting the right turn and need to be repealed. He did specify what kind of signage he recommends for Broad St. and Narragansett Blvd. at Chiswick, pending approval tonight, they will go forward to the people that make the signs and put them up. She reached out to Waze and asked that this be made a private road, which is how it is done through Waze. We also have some kind of account with Waze that she could not access so she will have to internally figure out who has that. The Traffic Engineer did say he already reached out to Google and that it was removed. So, you can’t access the street from Google Maps to see the street. As far as putting a “no trucks going through”, the Traffic Engineer stated that that street is already listed under “Through Trucking Prohibited on Certain Streets”. As far as the signage, the signs are at the beginning and go for all the roads that come off Norwood. He did caution that other roads that run along that way are now going to maybe see more through traffic and have similar complaints and we could sort of start a domino effect by doing this, but as long as the Council is aware of that, that is going to be on the Council to address going forward.

 

Councilman Buonanno stated that he thinks that if Chiswick is no through trucking, there should be a sign stating “no through trucking”.

 

Councilman Andujar thanked Director Renzulli for reaching out and doing her part, but reminded the residents of Chiswick that Citywide Councilwoman Vaziri stated that she will do speed bumps and he will support that.

 

Councilman Campopiano stated that if Google Maps took the street off, he asked if that means that if a resident is getting a refrigerator delivered and they put their name in, they won’t get that street or how does that work? Director Renzulli stated that she does not quite completely understand it, but she thinks it is off and it is not going to be utilized as going that way for general traffic. The street still exists, the address still exists, Amazon is still going to deliver packages to the residents on Chiswick, they can still get mail and everything else. It is just not highlighted as a road to use for traveling through. That is how she understands it.

 

RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY CONSIDER SWIFT ACTION TO CHANGE THE DATE OF THE SEPTEMBER 2026 RHODE ISLAND STATEWIDE PRIMARY ELECTION DUE TO CONCERNS REGARDING THE LABOR DAY HOLIDAY. Sponsored by Council President Wall and Councilman Campopiano.

 

On motion by Councilman Campopiano, seconded by Councilwoman Vaziri, the above Resolution was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

IX.            PUBLIC COMMENT FOR UNDOCKETED ITEMS

 

None.

 

X.            ELECTION/APPOINTMENT OF CITY OFFICIALS

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF DANIEL CONNORS TO THE AUDIT COMMITTEE FOR TERM DECEMBER 31, 2025 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY COUNCILMAN ANDUJAR.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilman Andujar, it was voted to re-appoint Daniel Connors to the Audit Committee for term December 31, 2025 through December 31, 2027 as requested by Councilman Andujar. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF ANTHONY RICCI TO THE AUDIT COMMITTEE FOR TERM DECEMBER 31, 2025 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY COUNCILMAN ANDUJAR.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilman Andujar, it was voted to re-appoint Anthony Ricci to the Audit Committee for term December 31, 2025 through December 31, 2027 as requested by Councilman Andujar. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         APPOINTMENT OF ALVIN CANDELARIO TO THE AUDIT COMMITTEE FOR TERM FEBRUARY 17, 2026 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2028 AS REQUESTED BY COUNCILMAN ANDUJAR.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to appoint Alvin Candelario to the Audit Committee for term February 17, 2026 through December 31, 2028 as requested by Councilman Andujar. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF JUSTIN MCCARTHY AS ALTERNATE 4 TO THE ZONING BOARD OF REVIEW FOR TERM JANUARY 28, 2026 THROUGH JANUARY 28, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT WALL.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, it was voted to re-appoint Justin McCarthy as Alternate 4 to the Zoning Board of Review for term January 28, 2026 through January 28, 2027 as requested by Council President Wall. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF RICHARD SANTAMARIA AS CITIZEN 3 TO THE BOARD OF CONTRACT AND PURCHASE FOR TERM NOVEMBER 17, 2026 THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY MAJORITY LEADER

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilman Andujar, it was voted to re-appoint Richard Santamaria as Citizen 3 to the Board of Contract and Purchase for term November 17, 2026 through January 4, 2027 as requested by Majority Leader. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF DORIS BLANCHARD AS CITIZEN 2 TO THE BOARD OF CONTRACT AND PURCHASE FOR TERM JANUARY 5, 2026 THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY MAJORITY LEADER

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilman Andujar, it was voted to re-appoint Doris Blanchard as Citizen 2 to the Board of Contract and Purchase for term January 5, 2026 through January 4, 2027 as requested by Majority Leader. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

·         RE-APPOINTMENT OF ANN MARIE MACCARONE, ESQ., AS CITIZEN 1 TO THE BOARD OF CONTRACT AND PURCHASE FOR TERM JANUARY 5, 2026 THROUGH JANUARY 4, 2027 AS REQUESTED BY COUNCIL PRESIDENT WALL

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilwoman Graziano, it was voted re-appoint Ann Marie Maccarone, Esq. as Citizen | to the Board of Contract and Purchase for term January 5, 2026 through January 4, 2027 as requested by Council President. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

XI.            REPORT OF CITY OFFICERS

 

None

 

XII.            EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS

 

LEGAL EXPENSE ANAL YSIS

 

No discussion held.

 

XIII.            COUNCIL PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS

 

·         DE LA COMUNIDAD CHARTER SCHOOL AND LEGAL COMPLAINT FILED

 

Council President Wall stated that approximately two weeks ago, a complaint was filed in Superior Court by the City of Cranston and the City of Pawtucket against the De La Comunidad Charter School and RIDE for their passage, as we and Pawtucket believe that it was passed in according to the Ordinance that would classify it as a Network Charter, which includes both Elementary and Secondary Schools. Such a Charter would require the City Council of said City, said City, ourselves and Pawtucket along with Providence to have filed a Resolution approving them a Resolution, they did not ask us for a Resolution. It is their contention that they are not a Network Charter so we filed a complaint. We have not head back from Superior Court yet. Solicitor Millea and Amanda Cascione from the School Committee worked on it on behalf of the City of Cranston and it was a similar situation in Pawtucket. We are on the same lawsuit and he asked Attorney Marcello to speak on it.

 

Attorney Marcello stated that he spoke to Solicitor Millea today and the case has been filed in a timely manner. We are waiting for a Summons to be generated by the Superior Court. Once the Summons is filed in the Court, then we need to serve the complaint on the RI Department of Education and the City of Providence as a Defendant because they are the interested parties in this obviously. From that, there will be a whole schedule. Basically, we are asking the Court to look at the Statute that establishes this and whether or not RIDE violated the Statute or they did not, meaning did they get the proper Resolution to approve this. It is not going to happen overnight, but it is a process that is going to be followed and he believes that because Pawtucket is in the same position that the City is in, he believes that Solicitor Millea is indicating that he will be working with that City Solicitor as well to move the case forward. Other than that, there is not much for the Council to do other than wait for the Judge’s ruling.

 

Council President Wall stated that this item is listed on the docket for informational purposes and as more information comes out, we will pass it on to everyone. We are a Country of laws and regardless of how you feel about a Charter School, in his view and many of the Attorneys he has spoken to, this position as it holds, will save our City when it comes to fruition, annually $2 million each year until that Charter School decides it wants to expand itself and then it will cost us more than $2 million a year and given our current situation, that is a pretty heavy number and that is why he put this item on the docket and he will certainly keep everyone posted on the success.

 

Councilman Buonanno thanked Council President Wall for taking the lead on this. He agrees wholeheartedly and thanked Council President Wall for doing the right thing for the City. Whether or not we agree or disagree with what the Charter School stands for or what they are going to do, you have to follow the rules. To him, it is a clear shirking of the rules. Not only is it a slap to our face or Pawtucket’s face, it is basically them saying that they do not need the Council’s approval, yes they do and he hopes this goes well for us.

 

Councilman Traficante stated that what bothers him is this is not like RIDE overlooking the rules set in place for Charters. When we established a Charter in Cranston back in 2002, we had to get approval by the School Committee, had to get approval by the City Council, even the Mayor had to give his approval. We had to get approval by the Cranston Teachers Alliance. There is a procedure to follow. He is disappointed that RIDE will allow that to slip.

 

Council President Wall stated that he is still waiting on Providence and Providence did not give a Resolution of approval either, but they did not join on our complaint to Superior Court. He has reached out to Providence and spoke to the President of the School Board this afternoon and he was very surprised that the Council had not filed a complaint because Providence is also in a precarious financial situation.

 

Councilwoman Vaziri stated that opening up this Charter School would result in approximately $4.8 million in loss to our District and as Council President Wall stated, an additional $2 million. Asa public school graduate, she really thinks we need to invest in our public schools.

 

·         DISCUSSION, RECEIPT AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF CORRESPONDENCE DATED FEBRUARY 5, 2026 FROM R.I. AUDITOR GENERAL CONCERNING CITY OF CRANSTON FY2025 AUDIT REPORT AND MUNICIPAL AND SCHOOL DEFICITS

 

Councilman Andujar stated that there will be a special Council meeting on February 23, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. regarding the Audit.

 

Council President Wall stated that he put this item on the docket because he thinks we should have a discussion going forward. This letter from the Auditor General seems to have been sent to just about everyone in the State outside of us as well. He asked if Mr. Igoe would like to address this letter.

 

Mr. Igoe stated that he put together a packet because he spoke to the Auditor General today and the printed version of the Audit is not available yet. It is on its way here by FedEx. The Auditor indicated to him that he spoke to the Council President and Councilman Andujar and there is a meeting scheduled for Monday evening to have them give their presentation. He has printed copies of what he thinks was relevant and if there are any questions, he will be available to answer them. He indicated that the actual Audit is on the website.

 

Council President Wall stated that as to the letter, certainly, we are concerned with the numbers that come through. Considering our General Fund end of FY resulting in an operational deficit of $6.5 million. The Schools Unrestricted Fund, a deficit of $3.9 million. This is not a finger pointing moment. It isa moment where we have to say “what happened”? “How did we get here”? “What are we going to do to fix this”? and “What are we going to do to fix this so it does not happen again”? He is sure that that is the position of the Administration as well, but he thinks we may have to look at some of these things as well. The second page of the letter discusses the RIGL 45.12.2.2 and it states the City did not submit completed budget to the actual report during the FY25. He asked if that is true. Mr. Igoe stated that it is true, we did not submit it, but we do post it every month and he sends it out electronically every month to the Council and to the rating agencies and the Administration.

 

Council President Wall asked if the monthly reports he receives, was the City supposed to send it to the Auditor General’s Office as well? Is this something we have not been doing in the past? Mr. Igoe stated that we used to send it to them all the time and then when COVID happened, that changed the report and it was kind of laxed off and then we received the second letter that is in the attachment on March 3" of last year saying that they were going to start back up in FY26, which started July of last year. The first report due to them was now in January and he forwarded the report that is on our website to the Auditor General and to the Department of Revenue. Council President Wall asked if we are back on track with that matter, and if we are, it’s good to hear. Also, in the letter, they discuss encouraging the City and School Officials to consider implementing budgetary and spending controls for the remainder of the FY2026 to minimize any potential operating deficit for the FY ending June 30, 2026. He assumes the City must be having meetings regarding this. Mr. Igoe stated, yes, they are, for the last month or two. Council President Wall stated that he thinks it would be important for the Council to be updated on this matter. As we go forth, maybe during the Finance Committee meetings this update can be given. The next Finance Committee meeting will be March 2". There was a meeting on January 28" with the School Department and the City and he asked Mr. Igoe to tell the Council substance of that. Mr. Igoe stated that basically, it is summarized in the letter. It was a conference call with the Auditor General, Department of Revenue, School Department and City Administration and once the Auditor General had received our Audit report for last year, the year ending June 30, 2025, which was in January, that he got the report, and he noticed the big deficit, that is when he called the meeting together. Council President Wall asked that this be added to the Finance Committee agenda.

 

Councilman Andujar stated that he is very concerned with this letter even on page two where it states structural deficit in the School system. He questioned if we should call for a performance audit. He has faith in the School Department, but he thinks we need to be seated at the table to see what is going on over there. Attorney Marcello stated that the agenda item is really just a discussion about the letter. Now we are delving into getting to remedies. He just wants to follow Opening Meetings.

 

Councilman Traficante asked if the Administration know or did not know that our finances were basically in trouble throughout that particular year. Director Moretti stated that the monthly reporting that Mr. Igoe sends out to members of the Administration, every member of the City Council, the Council Auditor and others. Every one of those financial statements in front of them that they could have monitored or spoken up. The Administration, along with everyone else would have. The Administration delegated the Finance Director to monitor the results and apprise us appropriately and he, himself, admitted that during the period of negotiations of three contracts, he took his eye off the ball and did not report it upstairs.

 

Council Vice-President Haroian asked Director Moretti when he was made aware of or when did the Finance Director realize we were in a problem. Director Moretti stated that he realized it in August of last year that he saw a deficit coming and since then, we began to give thought process and now we are very deep into resolution. As to the Auditor General’s letter, it is not extraordinary that that happens. It is extraordinary when community municipalities are reporting. In this case, a fairly substantial deficit. They are doing their job to follow up with the municipalities. Unfortunately, both on the City side and the School side, requires remedy. We are not talking about bankruptcy by any stretch. We are very solvent and the Mayor wants to get this resolved in short order basically within the next budget cycle to get past this and he thinks it is doable. It won’t be a pleasant process, but can be and will be resolved. The Auditor General did suggest and we would anticipate that, to come up with remedy and to make sure that we are tracking correctly and a plan is being very much developed tactically as we speak and it will be out soon.

 

Council President Wall asked if that plan is also in cooperation with the School Department. Director Moretti stated, yes, Mr. Balducci and Superintendent are aware and they participate in the meetings.

 

Councilman Andujar stated to Director Moretti that the letter refers to he or that department or that State agency is going to meet with the City, School and State Officials. He asked if this Body has a seat at that table. Director Moretti stated that it would be their meeting. He believes not because it is administrative matter to correct it, but you can speak to the Auditor General. That is pretty standard operating procedure for follow up and they will be doing that until they probably see that corrective plan in place over the next several months and then they will monitor that progress probably for the next year or so. Councilman Andujar asked Director Moretti if he will give the Council the report from the meetings if they are not invited. Director Moretti stated that he would be happy to tell the Council what happened. He is not sure if there will be a report from the meeting. He anticipates next meeting to be sometime early to mid-March and he is not sure what will come of it at that point. He can state that the answer will be April 1 in the Mayor’s budget. He will be happy to download whatever knowledge we get from those discussions and share that.

 

Council President Wall asked what facilitated the letter if they were not getting the reports for 2025 FY. Director Moretti stated that it was the financial results of the Audit that triggered it.

 

XIV.            COUNCIL MEMBER COMMUNICATIONS

 

Councilman Andujar

·         Status of Auditor presenting audit to Council

 

Councilman Andujar stated that when he first requested this item to be placed on the agenda, he did not have the Audit, but over that weekend, he did receive the Audit and stated that there will be a special Council meeting on February 23"4, at 6:30 p.m. for the Auditor to come in and share his findings.

 

Council President Wall stated that he appreciates Mr. Igoe having the copies available, but he hopes that at that point the Council will have the binder.

 

Councilman Buonanno

·         Update on D.O.T. projects

 

Councilman Buonanno stated that there is a lot of construction going on in our City and the questions he gets asked most are about State projects. He reached out to Director Moretti, who was kind enough to reach out to the DOT because it was his goal to get DOT to come in and give a briefing about the construction going on such as on Route 37 and Route 10 and what is going on where they are redoing ramps and things like that. He stated that being an employee of the Department of Corrections, he receives a lot of complaints about Power Rd. being closed. Apparently, Director Moretti spoke to DOT and they stated that they do not go to Council meetings, they do not go to public Council meetings.

 

Director Moretti stated that they do not go to Council meetings. The DOT Administration has a policy that they do not do Town Hall meetings, they do not do Council meetings, but what they do is they are happy to give the Administration presentations or updates. He would be happy to schedule a meeting with DOT, Administration and a select number of Council members so we do not violate Open Meetings and if there are any suggestions the Council has, he can propose them to DOT. They are wonderful and extremely informative.

 

Councilman Buonanno stated that he will work with Director Moretti on that and see if we can get that scheduled. He asked that this item remain on the agenda for update.

 

Council President Wall directed the Clerk to keep this item on the agenda for update until further notice.

 

Councilman Buonanno stated that he will provide a list of hot topics to the Administration to give to DOT so they are prepared to address them. Council Vice-President Haroian addressed Director Renzulli and stated that the State Senate and Representatives get emails in their government emails whenever there are projects done in their area. She asked if Director Renzulli can get those emails and forward them to the Council if we are going to have DOT working in our area. Director Renzulli stated that she can certainly request them.

 

XV.            COUNCIL BUSINESS MATTERS CARRIED OVER

 

12-25-03 ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF CITY-OWNED PROPERTY LOCATED ON CARDINAL RD. (ASSESSOR PLAT 24, LOT 204), PURSUANT TO CHARTER SECTION 7.08. As amended by City Council 1/20/2026. Sponsored by Mayor Hopkins.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to approve the above Ordinance.

 

Under Discussion:

Attorney Marcello stated that this was as a result of Councilwoman Graziano’s concern about the other provision. This specifically exempts from that provision.

 

Councilwoman Graziano stated that it was important to get this right. She would like it on the record, can we get it right the first time before it comes before us? This is like the third time something like this happened. We need review of these before they come to the Council because we can’t be doing this on the floor.

 

Roll call was taken on motion to approve this Ordinance and motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -8. Councilman Ritz was not present for roll call vote.

 

12-26-02S ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE ESTABLISHMENT OF REVOLVING FUND FOR SCHOOL BUILDING IMPROVEMENTS. As substituted by Special Finance Committee 1/20/2026. Sponsored by Mayor Kenneth J. Hopkins Co-Sponsored by Councilmen Buonanno, Traficante, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Councilwoman Vaziri, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall.

 

On motion by Council Vice-President Haroian, seconded by Councilman Andujar, the above Ordinance was adopted on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

XVI.            INTRODUCTION OF NEW BUSINESS

 

The following items of new business are listed for reference and for a vote to be referred to the appropriate Council sub-committee for a public hearing. The Council President may call for a motion to consider one or more of the new business items as a block:

 

2-26-01 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 10, CHAPTER 32, SECTION 030 OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON CODE OF ORDINANCES, 2005, ENTITLED ‘MULTI-WAY STOP INTERSECTIONS-ENUMERATED’. Sponsored by Councilman Traficante. To be referred to Ordinance Committee March 4, 2026.

 

2-26-02 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 10, CHAPER 12, SECTION 100 OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON CODE OF ORDINANCES, 2005, ENTITLED ‘RIGHT TURNS PROHIBITED’. Sponsored by Councilwoman Graziano. To be referred to Ordinance Committee March 4, 2026.

 

2-26-03 ORDINANCE IN AMENDMENT OF TITLE 10, CHAPTER 12, SECTION 210 OF THE CITY OF CRANSTON CODE OF ORDINANCES, 2005, ENTITLED ‘THROUGH TRUCKING-PROHIBITED ON CERTAIN STREETS’. Sponsored by Councilwoman Graziano and Councilman Buonanno. To be referred to Ordinance Committee March 4, 2026.

 

CLAIMS to be referred to the Claims Committee meeting of March 2, 2026 as follows: (vote may be taken)

 

CLAIMANT            TYPE OF CLAIM    DATE OF INCIDENT

Ronald Ricci              Property damage       12/19/2025

Vinod Doshi               Property damage       1/25-26/2026

Margarita Reyes       Property damage       2/2/2026

Lorine Lemay            Property damage       2/7/2026

 

Council President Wall stated that if there are no objections, he entertained a motion to refer all matters of new business to their respective Committees.

 

Councilman Andujar made the motion and Councilwoman Graziano seconded the motion. Council President Wall asked if there were any objections. Councilwoman Graziano objected.

 

Councilman Buonanno suggested that if that objection is because one of the items is going to be removed, remove it and then vote the others as a block.

 

Motion and second were withdrawn.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to refer proposed Ordinance 2-26-01 to the Ordinance Committee. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to refer proposed Ordinance 2-26-02 to the Ordinance Committee. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

Councilwoman Graziano made a motion to rescind proposed Ordinance 2-26-03.

 

Attorney Marcello stated that after speaking to the Clerk, he recommended referring this Ordinance to Committee and at the Committee level the Ordinance can be withdrawn due to the fact that the Ordinance has already been advertised for public hearing.

 

On motion by Councilman Andujar, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to refer proposed Ordinance 2-26-03 to the Ordinance Committee. Motion passed on a vote of 9-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilwoman Graziano, Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -9.

 

On motion by Councilman Buonanno, seconded by Council Vice-President Haroian, it was voted to refer the above claims to the Claims Committee. Motion passed on a vote of 8-0. The following being recorded as voting “aye”: Councilmen Andujar, Ritz, Traficante, Councilwoman Vaziri, Councilmen Campopiano, Buonanno, Council Vice-President Haroian and Council President Wall -8. Councilwoman Graziano was not present for roll call vote.

 

XVII.            INFORMATIONAL ITEMS — NO ACTION REQUIRED (no votes)

 

None

 

XVIII.            ADJOURNMENT

 

The meeting adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

 

/s/ Rosalba Zanni

Assistant City Clerk/Clerk of Committees