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5/7/2025
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Sen. Dimitri bill would give small communities local control over large developments
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 STATE HOUSE — A bill from Sen. Andrew R. Dimitri would help small Rhode Island communities retain local zoning control over large development projects.
“Our current one-size-fits-all approach to building substantial multifamily projects statewide does not take into account the significant impacts of large-scale projects on smaller communities of less than 35,000 residents,” said Senator Dimitri (D-Dist. 25, Johnston). “Large development projects pose unique challenges to smaller communities, particularly in terms of infrastructure. These communities may lack appropriate roadways, public transit, even municipal sewer and water service, and their small size means that a large project will put a disproportionate strain on their school systems and fire and public safety services. This legislation amends our state law to reflect these realities and let local planning boards do their jobs to make sure new projects are consistent with local needs.”
Senator Dimitri’s legislation (2025-S 0503) would amend Rhode Island’s low- and moderate-income housing laws to define low- or moderate-income projects that exceed 60 units and are proposed in a municipality with a population of less than 35,000 residents as “substantial multi-family housing projects.” These projects would need to go through local planning boards for approval and would not be eligible to use the comprehensive permit process that currently applies to most low- or moderate-income projects.
The applicant would also need to provide documentation to show that the project is consistent with local need, which the bill stipulates would need to include consideration of the impact to all municipal residents in general, and the public-school system, public transportation and public infrastructure in particular. Inconsistency with these local needs would be grounds to deny a project.
All minor and major changes to a project of this type would need to be approved by the local review board, and the developer would also need to go through a pre-application conference with their local municipality.
Senator Dimitri is serving his first term in the Senate. A lifelong Johnston resident, he currently works as an attorney. He attended St. Rocco School in Johnston, LaSalle Academy, the University of Rhode Island and Roger Williams University School of Law.
For more information, contact:
Tristan Grau, Publicist
State House Room B20
Providence, RI 02903
401.222.4935
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