Remembrance of Sgt Christopher Callan
Recently our community received the sad news of the passing of EG police Sgt Christopher Callan. Our first agenda was an opportunity to recognize and memorialize the life of Sgt Callan. Although I did not know Sgt Callan personally, East Greenwich is a very close knit place and I have heard from many people about the impact his engaging personality and outstanding professional skills had on our EG community, on the state of Rhode Island and in his service to our nation.
Sgt Callan ably served our community for 15 years on the EG police force, he was a member of the RI National Guard, and was an US Army veteran and member of the Army Special Forces, awarded a bronze star during his combat tour in Afghanistan. In addition to his professional accomplishments, he was a warm and caring man who leaves a lasting legacy to our community.
On behalf of East Greenwich Town government, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Sgt Callan.
EG Chief of Police Steve Brown offered his remembrances of Sgt Callan.
Town Manager’s Authority Under CoViID Emergency Extended
The Town Manager, as authorized by the Council, may suspend the provisions of any statute, regulation, or requirement for the conduct of town business, if strict compliance with the provisions of any statute, order, rule or regulation would in any way prevent, hinder or delay necessary action in coping with this emergency. This resolution remains in effect until October 14, 2020.
2021 Sewer Budget Public Hearing
- $4 million sewer budget reviewed.
- Sewer rates proposed to increase by 3.9%
- Infrastructure improvement fund established.
- Business and school closures during CoVID have decreased sewer revenues.
- Public Comment and Vote on budget scheduled for August 24, 2020
Bond Refinance Results in $2.4 million Savings
Council votes 5-0 to Refinance $31 million of town bonds resulting in $2.4 million savings in interest expense.
Finance Director Reports on Town’s Direct Purchase Bond Sale of $3.4 million.
The Town sold $3.485 million of Town and School capital equipment direct purchase bonds. The winning bidder was JP Morgan with a rate of 1.12% for the 7-year bonds. By selling our bonds directly to a bank we obtain rates below that of a typical bond auction.
Councilor Mark Schwager 