2025-36 Resolution of the Council, re: In support of RI House Bill 5793.

RESOLUTION OF THE TOWN COUNCIL OF THE TOWN OF MIDDLETOWN, RHODE ISLAND, IN SUPPORT OF HOUSE BILL 5793

WHEREAS, the Town of Middletown recognizes that Rhode Island is facing a critical shortage of affordable and workforce housing, which has contributed to rising housing costs, displacement of long-term residents, and economic challenges for municipalities seeking to attract and retain a diverse population; and

WHEREAS, House Bill 5793 (2025), introduced by Representatives Corvese and Kislak, amends Section 44-5-2 of the Rhode Island General Laws to provide an exemption to the property tax levy cap for municipalities that experience substantial new residential development that meets certain affordability standards; and

WHEREAS, the proposed legislation would permit municipalities to exclude the assessed value of newly constructed housing units from their maximum levy calculation for three years, provided the developments include at least 10% low- or moderate-income housing units and comply with local zoning and building codes; and

WHEREAS, the Town Council recognizes that the flexibility provided by House Bill 5793 (2025) would encourage responsible residential growth, create financial room to address associated infrastructure and service demands, and support broader community development goals without immediately burdening existing taxpayers; and

WHEREAS, the Town Council further acknowledges that encouraging the production of affordable housing through responsible legislative measures is essential to ensuring the Town remains inclusive, economically vibrant, and capable of meeting the needs of residents across all income levels; and

WHEREAS, House Bill 5793 (2025) maintains important fiscal safeguards by requiring municipalities to document and report the use of the exemption to the Rhode Island Division of Property Valuation and ensures that developments benefiting from the exemption are properly integrated into the local tax base after the transition period; and

WHEREAS, the Town of Middletown believes that local control combined with sensible state support is critical to addressing the housing shortage and supporting future generations of Rhode Islanders.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town Council of the Town of Middletown hereby expresses its strong support for House Bill 5793 (2025) and respectfully urges the members of the Rhode