Philip Cozzolino

Providence

Staff Reporter at Newport This Week

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Articles

Camp Rocky Farm Renovation Receives Approval

2 days ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The Newport Planning Board unanimously approved a large- scale renovation of the Girl Scouts of Southeastern New England’s Camp Rocky Farm on June 16, but with many conditions. The planned renovations include construction of a new alumni building, two covered pavilions and 10 parking spaces. The project will also reconfigure the existing 3,800-square-foot lodge’s interior and relocate the camp’s archery range to the north side of the property.
DiPalma Bill on Firearms Approved by State Lawmakers

2 days ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The Rhode Island General Assembly approved legislation on June 20 that would prohibit the manufacture, purchase, sale or transfer of military-style or assault weapons. The legislation now goes to Gov. Dan McKee, who is expected to sign it into law. The bill was sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Louis DiPalma (Dist. 12 Middletown, Little Compton, Newport and Tiverton). DiPalma said the law’s passage is the result of many years of advocacy, work and collaboration.
Newport Extends AI Service Contract for $33K

1 week ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The use of artificial intelligence by the city of Newport will continue as the city council unanimously approved a $33,600, one-year contract renewal for the service on June 11. Started in January, the service from provider Polimorphic assists the public with virtual chat capabilities, fielding phone calls and answering inquiries. It collects data and provides the city a window into constituent needs.
Newport Considers Eliminating Proposed New Positions

1 week ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The Newport City Council is considering eliminating eight new positions included in the city administration’s proposed $122 million Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The council tentatively voted to do so at a June 11 meeting, though the budget process remains fluid. Changes can still be made before a July 1 deadline, and some councilors are confident at least some of the positions could come back, including a proposed deputy police chief.
This Week’s Conversation with Sam Sacco

1 week ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

Salve Regina University business and economics professor Sam Sacco held management roles in private and public finance for three decades, but Newporters may know him for something else. Since 2018, Sacco and his students have studied the economic impact of places of interest, authoring a 2019 study of the Cliff Walk’s contribution to Newport and the state.
Newport Planning Postpones Broadway Application

1 week ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

At a June 16 meeting, The Newport Planning Board voted unanimously to continue a proposed housing development at 525 Broadway after the Middletown Planning Board denied the application on June 11. The proposal, which overlaps borders, is scheduled to be heard again in Newport on Aug. 4, though it is expected to significantly change following Middletown’s denial.
Federal Funds for Cliff Walk Repair Now in Limbo

1 month ago | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

A roughly $11 million federal grant previously awarded to fund repairs of the Cliff Walk is in limbo, according to city officials. Awarded to the city last year by Sen. Jack Reed, Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse and Rep. Gabe Amo, the Promoting Resilient Operations for Transformative, Efficient and Cost-Saving Transportation (PROTECT) grant is intended to bolster resilience and repair efforts at the three-mile Cliff Walk, a large economic draw for both the city and state.
Objectors Target Parking in Thames Street Vacation Rental Proposal 796

Feb 27, 2025 | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The Newport Zoning Board of Review got its first look on Feb. 10 at a proposal to demolish and redevelop the property at 144-150 Thames St. into vacation rentals. Though no vote was taken and the application is expected to be heard again next month, numerous abutting objectors, including residents, Brick Market Place business owners and nearby condominium associations, targeted the project’s proposed parking plan.
Public Overwhelmingly Supports DEI in Newport Schools

Feb 20, 2025 | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

There was a strong showing of support for diversity, equity and inclusion policies in Newport Public Schools at a Feb. 11 School Committee meeting. Over a dozen speakers, including School Committee members, teachers, students and parents, voiced opposition to a motion to rescind the policy and send it for legal review. No members of the public spoke in favor of eliminating the policy.
Lease Signed to Stay in Brick Market

Feb 20, 2025 | newportthisweek.com | Philip Cozzolino

The Newport Historical Society will stay in its Brick Market location after signing a 30-year lease with the city. The nonprofit organization will pay the city $6,667 per year for use of its headquarters and museum located at 127 Thames St., a city- owned building. NHS, which offers the public free admission to the museum, has been leasing the building for $1 per year since 1991. The agreement has not been formal since 2016. The City Council unanimously approved the new contract on Feb. 12.