TOLL SUPPORTERS VIEW SAKONNET BRIDGE USERS AS "REVENUE STREAM" TO BAIL OUT RITBA & RIDOT

Those with a self-interest in Sakonnet tolls continue to try to use the enormity of the infrastructure problem to disguise what's really going on (see link below). If the State faces a $100 million need, how will failing to create a Statewide maintenance process help? Will users of the Sakonnet Bridge be forced to pay for the rest of the State, as well as to keep the quasi-public RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority afloat? How will crushing the East Bay's economy help the State's finances? 

The only responsible course is to create a non-toll, Statewide maintenance process, and we the voters need to make clear it's also the only politically viable course.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x140442603/East-Bay-Bridge-Commission-maintains-that-toll-on-Sakonnet-River-Bridge-is-still-unfair

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

BRIDGE-MAINTENANCE COMMISSION MEETS TO CONSIDER TOLL ALTERNATIVES

The Commission examining bridge-maintenance funding will soon put out its recommendation, hopefully one that would create a non-toll, Statewide bridge-maintenance program. Those interested in being heard on this issue can attend their Thursday, Dec. 19 meeting, and/or send a written statement to the Commission. 

As decision time nears, every voice in support of our local Senators & Representatives efforts to eliminate Sakonnet tolls and put in place a fair, non-destructive maintenance system is important.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/bridge-panel-meets-thursday/

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

EAST BAY LEGISLATORS CONFIDENT SAKONNET TOLLS WILL BE ELIMINATED

It's great to see our East Bay legislators united in working all-out to both eliminate Sakonnet tolls and put in place a fair, responsible, non-toll Statewide process to maintain our bridges. And while it's also great to see increasing confidence that the RI Legislature will do the right thing, it's crucial to not let up the effort until the toll-equipment is actually removed from the Sakonnet Bridge once and for all.

All who oppose these tolls should do their part to stay informed and support our local officials' efforts. Every voter can add his/her voice to the effort to make clear to all elected officials outside the East Bay that there is no benefit to supporting the destructive, unfair Sakonnet Bridge tolls, or failing to create a responsible Statewide bridge-maintenance program.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x2132763744/East-Bay-R-I-legislators-confident-that-Sakonnet-River-Bridge-tolls-will-soon-be-gone

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

CHANNEL 12 COVERAGE OF LAST NIGHT'S ANTI-TOLL MEETING

http://www.wpri.com/news/local/east-bay/east-bay-residents-turn-out-for-sakonnet-river-bridge-hearing

REP. EDWARDS HOLDS OPEN HOUSE ON TOLLS, LOCAL ISSUES ON WED DEC 11 @ 6:30p AT COMMON FENCE HALL

State Representative Jay Edwards (District 70 / Portsmouth/Tiverton) is holding an Open House for constituents this Weds (Dec 11) @ 6:30p at Common Fence Point Community Hall in Portsmouth (933 Anthony Rd). 

He will give discuss the status of the Sakonnet Tolls issue, give an update on the Legislative Commission on tolls/bridge maintenance funding he is part of, and discuss other local issues of interest. All are encouraged to attend.

THE REAL REASON FOR SAKONNET TOLLS

Even the most ardent proponents of Sakonnet tolls can no longer hide the true reason for imposing them: RI Turnpike and Bridge Authority is in dire financial straits, and is looking at users of the Sakonnet River Bridge as a "revenue stream" (in the words of RITBA Executive Director Buddy Croft in the article linked below) to bail this quasi-public agency out of a financial crisis having nothing to do with the Sakonnet River Bridge. It's as simple, and unfair, as that.

It's crucial that all Rhode Islanders understand the facts. The tolls won't pay for the bridge construction; that was done by a bond RI taxpayers are paying off. More than 90% of the funds raised by Sakonnet tolls will not go to maintaining this new bridge. The funds will go to fill a $200 million gap in RITBA's finances over the next decade, a crisis not due to Sakonnet River Bridge maintenance, which will be minimal for this new structure.

The fact that RITBA is facing a $200 million shortfall should be all the information legislators need to see the irresponsibility of funnelling more taxpayer funds into this unsustainable system, especially with all the economic damage a Sakonnet toll will cause. The issue facing each legislator (and candidate for State office) is whether he/she will support the residents and businesses of the East Bay, or come down in support of a destructive toll that amounts to a $200 million taxpayer bailout of a quasi-public agency.

Anyone supporting Sakonnet tolls needs to explain why East Bay residents and businesses will be the only ones in the State forced to be a "revenue stream" to subsidize bridge maintenance and the operations of a quasi-public agency. The only responsible course is to create a statewide, non-toll system to fund bridge maintenance, and hopefully that will be the outcome of this Legislative Commission.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/east-bay-pols-residents-once-again-question-need-for-tolls-on-sakonnet-river-bridge/

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

STUDENTS, TEACHERS & PARENTS WORK TOGETHER TO HELP THE COMMUNITY

There is so much great community spirit and involvement in Tiverton that often goes unheralded in favor of the negative. Thanks to the Herald News for recognizing this terrific effort of students, teachers and parents to help those in need.

http://www.heraldnews.com/newsnow/x2132761794/Tiverton-Middle-School-faculty-finds-ways-to-host-activities-on-a-zero-budget

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

POLL: RHODE ISLANDERS OVERWHELMINGLY OPPOSE SAKONNET TOLLS

Rhode Islanders oppose Sakonnet River Bridge tolls by an overwhelming 57%-35% margin. Further proof that this toll is not only bad policy, but bad politics. Any government plan opposed by such a wide margin will eventually be reversed, and will negatively impact any politician who supports it (all 2014 Statewide candidates need to be reminded of this poll). 

It's time that our Statewide officials followed the lead of our East Bay Reps & Senators who are working to scrap tolls in favor of a responsible maintenance plan.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/poll-most-dont-want-sakonnet-river-bridge-toll/

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

RITBA IS CHARGING THE EZ-PASS ACCOUNTS OF DRIVERS WHO AREN'T EVEN USING THEM

RITBA is apparently charging the EZ-pass accounts of drivers who cross the Sakonnet Bridge but don't have their EZ-pass in the car (they apparently trace the license plate). They claim this is to "help" drivers whose EZ-pass doesn't register. If you don't want them doing this without your permission, you can go to your EZ-pass account and remove your license-plate from the account, and then RITBA will need to send a bill instead. You should be able to call RITBA and have them do this on the phone.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

GOVERNOR CANDIDATE ALLAN FUNG OPPOSES SAKONNET TOLLS

Allan Fung, Republican candidate for Governor, announced in his candidacy statement that he opposes tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge, and supports alternative ways to fund bridge maintenance.

There are two main avenues to pursue to eliminate tolls. The first is to convince the committee considering toll alternatives (and the General Assembly they will report to) of the destructive consequences and blatant unfairness of these tolls, and the need to put in place a statewide, non-toll means to fund bridge maintenance. The second is to make clear to all State officials, including candidates for Governor, of the negative political consequences of supporting tolls.

Getting every candidate for Statewide office on the record regarding these tolls is crucial, and making sure it's known that a broad section of East Bay voters (and many others across the State) will vote only for those who pledge to oppose tolls. Especially in low-turnout primaries, a motivated, coordinated effort on this issue can be the deciding factor.

http://www.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/content/20131104-cranston-mayor-allan-fung-confirms-run-for-r.i.-governor.ece

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

REP. CANARIO SEEKING AUDIT OF RITBA'S FINANCES

Rep. Dennis Canario is seeking a full audit of the finances of the quasi-governmental RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority (link below). RITBA is the agency currently charging the 10-cent toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge, and which is seeking  much higher tolls to fund its operations. All who oppose these destructive tolls should do everything possible to support our local elected Representatives and Senators as they work to convince our State officials of the need for a fair, statewide bridg-maintenance program that doesn't hurt local residents & businesses with tolls.

A full accounting of RITBA's operations & finances needs to be part of any serious effort to create a fair, effective bridge-maintenance program. The simple fact is that over 90% of RITBA's proposed tolls will fund RITBA's budget, not Sakonnet Bridge maintenance. RI taxpayers own the bridge, & are paying for the bonds that built it. 

Our local elected officials are all working to create a fair statewide system without adding destructive tolls. Our State government needs to join them, and put the interests of the people who own the bridge before those of a quasi-governmental agency looking for East Bay residents & businesses to fund their budget.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

http://tiverton.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/representative-seeks-audit-of-ritba-finances-tiverton

RITBA NOW WILL SEND OUT TOLL-BILLS

Of course they are. Because most of the funds RITBA wants to raise by tolls will go to pay for RITBA's budget, facility, personnel, etc, and NOT maintenance on the Sakonnet Bridge, which would require LESS than a 10-cent toll. This toll is a shell-game that some want to impose on East Bay residents & businesses. We have less than three months to support our local Senators & Reps in getting SRB tolls eliminated in favor of a fair, Statewide system of funding bridge maintenance.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x1803840193/RIDOT-starting-to-send-out-toll-bills-to-Sakonnet-bridge-frequent-fliers

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

TOLL-ALTERNATIVE COMMISSION HAS OPPORTUNITY TO HELP ALL RHODE ISLANDERS

The Commission exploring alternatives to tolls has an opportunity not to just undo a destructive & unfair toll on SR Bridge, but to create a responsible and even-handed means of maintaining bridges across RI. The recommendation of this Commission, and action then taken by the General Assembly, will demonstrate whether our State government is interested in truly solving a problem, or simply in using East Bay residents & businesses as a means to fund the budget of the quasi-government RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/special-commission-gets-broad-overview-of-states-infrastructure-ills/

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

COMMITTEE CONSIDERING TOLLS ALTERNATIVES STARTS MEETING THIS WEEK

As the committee charged with exploring a statewide system to maintain bridges without tolls begins meeting this Thursday, the time for toll opponents to make their opposition heard is now. The obvious arguments of fairness and the destructive and divisive results of tolls need to continue being made loud and clear. But it must also be made clear to the State's political leadership that Sakonnet Bridge tolls, whatever the amount, will never be accepted, and those who support tolls will pay a political price.

With the top advocate of tolls, the Governor, not seeking re-election, it's the ideal time for State leaders to put this divisive issue behind them and devise a non-toll means to fund maintenance to all state bridges fairly and efficiently.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/bridge-fundingtolls-study-panel-begins-work/

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

PROJO: GOV. CHAFEE WILL NOT RUN FOR RE-ELECTION

Governor Lincoln Chafee has decided not to run for re-election next year. Beyond all the other implications of this decision, it has the potential to drastically change the Sakonnet Toll issue. The primary supporter of tolls will not be Governor after next year, nor a candidate in the 2014 campaign. There are three ways this could benefit the united effort to eliminate destructive tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge.

First, there is an opportunity in the 2014 primaries to support only candidates who oppose SRB tolls. This is why it's crucial to form a united electorate committed to turning out to vote in 2014 and support only anti-toll candidates.We need to get all candidates to take a clear stand on the issue, and make sure all voters know which candidates will stand with the people of the East Bay.

Second, as the committee charged with considering alternatives to tolls and a Statewide process of funding bridge maintenance begins to meet, the equation has been altered. With the primary proponent of imposing this unfair tax on East Bay residents and businesses no longer a candidate, it's time to maximize efforts to convince those on the committee, and our Senate and House leadership, that there is no upside to supporting these tolls. This committee is the ideal opportunity to correct a bad situation. and responsibly fund bridge maintenance in a way that treats all Rhode Islanders equally.

And third, this presents an opportunity to persuade Governor Chafee that however well-intentioned this toll plan might have been, it's also the most unfair, inefficient, and destructive means to address the maintenance issue. With a year left in office, surely he doesn't want this divisive and wrongheaded toll plan to be his lasting legacy with an entire region of RI, any more than State and House leaders do. Supporting a non-toll maintenance process that is uniform statewide would solve two problems and remove this contentious issue.

This Sakonnet Toll process has been a maddening and frustrating one. The absolute promise of the State not to consider tolls on the replacement bridge was simply disregarded, the unfairness of targeting only one region with tolls disregarded, the near-unanimous opposition of residents and businesses ignored.

The bridge belongs to us, the people of RI who paid for it, and we must not accept our elected representatives handing control of it over to a quasi-public agency whose primary concern is covering their operating budget. Tolls are a betrayal of the people, and a bad deal for all except the RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority. The time is now to correct course and devise a bridge-maintenance plan that will solve the problem without creating worse ones.

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

http://www.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/content/20130904-r.i.-governor-chafee-will-not-seek-re-election-poll.ece

TOLL CIRCUS: 10-CENT "TRAINING TOLLS" START AUG 19, RITBA SAYS DRIVERS MUST CONTACT RITBA TO PAY

Once again, you can't make this stuff up. 10-cent "training tolls" are set to start Aug. 19, but RITBA has yet to figure out how to collect the toll from non EZ-pass drivers. Even better, RITBA Director Darlington says it will be the legal responsibility of the driver to contact RITBA and pay the toll, not for RITBA to have a system to collect them. Honestly, this is the organization some want to turn OUR bridge over to? The Committee set up to consider toll-alternatives needs to come up with a fair, non-destructive means of maintaining ALL bridges in RI and end this toll circus.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/tolls-to-start-aug-19-collection-issues-remain/

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

VIDEO: "CELEBRATE TIVERTON!" 2013 PARADE

TIVERTON DISCUSSES WIND POWER

Council President Ed Roderick has it right in this Herald News article: the town shouldn't let this opportunity pass us by. And Portsmouth's turbine is a different situation, where the town owns and maintains it, and had a warranty that was lost when the manufacturer went out of business. 

While it remains to be seen if a deal can be worked out that will be a net-plus to Tiverton and guard against pitfalls, there is tremendous potential in wind power & other renewable energy.

http://www.heraldnews.com/newsnow/x1808721637/Wind-farm-developer-takes-case-to-Tiverton

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

TOWN COUNCIL WORKSHOP TONIGHT (JULY 29) ON WIND ENERGY

The Town Council is holding a workshop tonight (Mon. July 29) to discuss the possibilities of wind power in town. Although there are many benefits and challenges to explore in this process, it's great to see the town taking the initiative on looking at responsible ways to harness renewable energy.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x273442144/Tiverton-considering-wind-power

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

HERALD NEWS COVERAGE OF "CELEBRATE TIVERTON"

Great job to all who organized this event, and to all who participated. It's great to see the Tiverton community joining together to show their pride in our town.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x273441760/Celebrate-Tiverton-parade-gives-residents-something-to-celebrate?zc_p=1

"CELEBRATE TIVERTON!" SCHEDULE IN FR HERALD NEWS

A schedule of "Celebrate Tiverton!" events in today's Herald News.

http://www.heraldnews.com/newsnow/x273441172/Celebrate-Tiverton-schedule-set

"CELEBRATE TIVERTON!" EVENTS THIS WEEKEND (JULY 26-27-28)

Join your neighbors and friends to "Celebrate Tiverton!" all this weekend (July 26-27-28).

http://www.eastbayri.com/celebrations/come-celebrate-tiverton-all-weekend/

CELEBRATE TIVERTON / SANDYWOODS ADVANCE TICKETS NOW ON SALE

Celebrate Tiverton is coming July 26-27-28!
Sandywoods advance ticket sale info: Available for purchase at the hall (yellow building) at Thursday's market, 4-7 pm, and at the music concerts on 7/19 & 7/20. Get 'em now!!

CELEBRATE TIVERTON IS JUST TWO WEEKS AWAY

Only two weeks to Celebrate Tiverton....lots of things going on and added daily. Make sure you check for updates:

http://www.celebratetiverton.org/

RI RANKS 49th AS BUSINESS-FRIENDLY STATE; HOW WOULD BUSINESS-KILLING TOLLS HELP?

Rhode Island is ranked 49th out of 50 states for being friendly to business. State leaders have pledged to improve that image and reputation. Now, can someone explain to us how imposing a business-killing toll on a major road, against the adamant and near-unanimous opposition of area businesses, elected officials and residents, helps the State's image as business-unfriendly?

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI


http://blogs.wpri.com/2013/07/10/why-does-ri-lag-minnesota-and-mass-in-the-cnbc-rankings/

ADDING INSULT TO INJURY

It's bad enough that we have to continue to fight a ridiculously destructive and unfair toll that no other area of the State faces. It's bad enough we were promised an open process, showed up at meetings and contacted State officials in large numbers with near-unanimous opposition to tolls and were ignored any way. It's bad enough the General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to delay tolls and then reversed course at the behest of RIDOT & RITBA, putting RITBA's financial concerns before those of the people who pay the bills. But now some who purchased transponders in good faith are having their credit cards charged more than they were told or agreed to. And RITBA is now suggesting they might go back on their decision to only charge one round-trip per day. Can't wait to see what's next...

http://tiverton.patch.com/groups/politics-and-elections/p/frustrations-flare-over-ezpass-transponders?a_dgi=aolshare_facebook

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

LATEST TOLL OUTRAGE: TRANSPONDER OVERCHARGING

Yet another outrageous toll development. RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority has been offering a "special discount" on transponders. Under this discount, each transponder would cost $10 (and RITBA would provide a $10 credit as well). With the specter of $4.25 tolls looming, my wife & I purchased two transponders, including a $25 deposit in the account, for $45. Our receipt clearly shows the cost as $45, and authorizes RITBA to charge our credit card $45.

Today, I found that RITBA charged our credit card $70. I called RITBA, and was told the $45 price was in error, and there was nothing they could do. In addition to the frustration of what appears to be either a bait-and-switch scheme or unacceptable incompetence, I am outraged that RITBA would charge my card for more than we authorized (isn't that illegal?). The RITBA employee had no answers, and when I asked to talk to a supervisor, I was told none were available. I was told I could return the transponders for a refund, but that obviously does me no good (unless Sakonnet Tolls are eliminated next year as they should be). All who purchased transponders should immediately check your credit card account, and contact RITBA (1-877-743-9727) and demand answers for any overcharges.

The larger issues are knowing by what right RITBA charges a credit card more than authorized, and finding out how this mess could happen. Is this really the agency we want to give full authority to tax us at will to cross over OUR bridge, which we paid for and own? The media and our elected officials should investigate this and RITBA's operations. We pay the bills, and we deserve answers. And we should demand of our State officials a fair, open, efficient means of maintaining infrastructure in ALL of Rhode Island.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

PROJO: RITBA CONCERNED ABOUT LOSS OF TOLL FUNDS

As this article makes clear, Sakonnet Bridge tolls are all about the financial needs & issues of RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority, and not the people of RI who paid for, own, & use the bridge. This isn't about responsible bridge maintenance; it's about RITBA exploiting an opportunity to raise as much money as they can get away with. Infrastructure needs to be fairly & responsibly funded by ALL Rhode Islanders, and be under the control of elected officials accountable to voters, not some quasi-public agency putting its own agenda before ours.

http://www.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/content/20130710-r.i.-authority-estimates-it-could-lose-13.5-million-in-sakonnet-river-bridge-toll-delay.ece

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

JOIN THE EFFORT TO ELIMINATE SAKONNET TOLLS TODAY

The fight against Sakonnet Tolls is now entering the key stage. 10-cent tolls will begin in August. The final decision whether to expand to full tolls or eliminate tolls on the Sakonnet will be made early next year. This is a political process, and the key to success is to have as many people informed and active against tolls as possible. State leaders need to hear the broad, vehement opposition repeatedly until the tolls are eliminated, and they need to know that voters, especially in the East Bay, will hold them responsible if permanent tolls are imposed.

Voters Against Sakonnet Tolls (VAST) is a grassroots effort to inform and unite voters to act politically against tolls and those who support them. To get involved, visit Voters Against Sakonnet Tolls on Facebook, or visit the blog at: www.SakonnetTolls.blogspot.com

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

HERALD NEWS: TOLLS & POLITICAL PROCESS FURTHER HARM STATE'S REPUTATION

Our State leaders insist they're trying to improve RI's anti-business image. Someone needs to explain to them that tolls that cut parts of the state off from the rest reinforce that bad reputation. And this shameful process doesn't help, either, as this Herald News article makes clear.

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x1808711448/RI-battle-over-Sakonnet-River-Bridge-charge-keeps-changing#axzz2YL3LRIqs

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

FALL RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OPPOSES SAKONNET TOLLS

Even business interests across the border in Fall River, who stand to gain some economic advantage if Rhode Island cuts off the East Bay from Southeastern MA, are speaking out against these destructive Sakonnet Tolls. Hopefully our State leaders will realize what's obvious to just about everyone else.

TOLLS ARE BACK - SO WHO IS BEING IRRESPONSIBLE?

Check the quote about "passing the bill on to our children" in the Herald News article (link below).

Those responsible for 38 Studios and other classic examples of bad government have the audacity to criticize those who oppose destructive tolls, selectively imposed just on the East Bay, as wanting to pass the bill on to our children? Absolutely unbelievable. Let's see what they say when tolls are introduced that negatively impact THEIR constituents every day.

Brian Medeiros

Tiverton, RI

http://www.heraldnews.com/news/x606638191/After-voting-to-delay-Sakonnet-River-Bridge-tolls-RI-legislators-reverse-course-impose-10-cent-toll#axzz2Y6fROTBp

"CELEBRATE TIVERTON" COMMUNITY EVENT: JULY 26-27-28

Lots going on with the Celebrate Tiverton weekend (July 26-27-28)
Make sure to share the link with your friends:

http://www.celebratetiverton.org/

SAKONNET TIMES UPDATE ON BUDGET, TOLL-DELAY

Sakonnet Times update on the status of the State Budget, and the toll-delay. There should be a final outcome early next week.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/government-politics/senate-vote-thursday-night-sends-no-tolls-budget-bill-to-governor/

PROJO: GOVERNOR STILL UNDECIDED ON BUDGET

Projo update on the Budget

http://www.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/content/20130627-new-8.2-billion-state-budget-clears-general-assembly.ec

SENATE APPROVES BUDGET WITH TOLL-DELAY BY LARGE MARGIN, SENDS TO GOVERNOR

The Senate has approved the Budget, with the toll-delay provision, by an overwhelming margin. It now goes to the Governor, who can either sign it or veto it. Given the huge margins in both House & Senate, it seems likely any veto would be overridden. This improbable outcome is almost a reality.

RI Senate to vote on $8.2B state budget - News, Weather and Classifieds for Southern New England

www.turnto10.com

An $8.2 billion state budget proposal for Rhode Island is heading to a vote in the state Senate.

NBC10 ARTICLE ON STATE BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS

NBC10 story on the highlights of the State Budget passed overwhelmingly by the House of Representatives, which includes the Sakonnet Tolls delay until at least February, and the formation of a committee to consider alternatives to tolls. The Senate could approve the Budget today, and send it to the Governor for his signature or veto (if vetoed, the House & Senate could vote to override and pass the Budget without the Governor's approval).

http://www.turnto10.com/story/22698554/details-from-82b-budget-as-passed-by-ri-house

PROJO: SENATE FINANCE CMTE APPROVES BUDGET WITH TOLL-DELAY 9-1, SENATE VOTES THURSDAY

With the House of Representatives having overwhelmingly voted to delay Sakonnet River Bridge tolls until next year as part of their approved State Budget, the Senate will vote on this proposal Thursday. The Senate Finance Committee approved it quickly and overwhelmingly, 9-1.

http://news.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/2013/06/ri-budget-goes-to-senate-thursday-after-fast-finance-panel-passage.html

HOUSE OF REPS APPROVES STATE BUDGET WITH TOLL-DELAY, NOW MOVES TO SENATE

The House has approved the State Budget, including the Toll-Delay provision. The House's Budget plan now moves to the Senate for approval. If the Senate approves the plan, it will go to the Governor for his signature or veto (which the House & Senate could override).

R.I. House approves $8.2-billion budget on 52-to-20 vote | Breaking News | providencejournal.com

news.providencejournal.com

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -- The Rhode Island House of Representatives finalized an $8.2-billion state budget for the year starting July 1 that included a controversial $2.5 million payment toward the state's

HOUSE OF REPS APPROVES TOLL-DELAY PLAN 67-4

The Toll-Delay deal received near-unanimous support in the House, a 67-4 vote to include it in the State Budget. It appears to be a done-deal in the House.  Pending final passage of the State Budget, Sakonnet tolls will be delayed until at least February, with a committee to be formed to consider alternatives to tolls to fund bridge maintenance.

For this delay to take affect, the Senate must now approve the budget put forth by the House, which includes the Toll-Delay plan. The Budget must then either be signed into law by the Governor, or if he vetoes it, the House and Senate will need to vote to override his veto (which seems likely given the 67-4 vote margin). All eyes turn now to the final budget vote in the House (possibly this evening), and the Senate budget vote.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

NBC10 REPORT ON TOLL-DELAY PROPOSAL VOTE

http://www.turnto10.com/story/22697108/ri-house-votes-to-delay-sakonnet-toll

TURNPIKE & BRIDGE AUTHORITY: "BUT WE ALREADY BUILT THE TOLL PLAZA!"

So let me see if I have this straight: the Turnpike & Bridge Authority's position is that our elected officials should reject a responsible way to fund bridge maintenance across the State without destructive tolls because...RITBA rushed to spend millions to install toll equipment, knowing full well that efforts were in the works in the Budget process to eliminate the tolls, and before the result was clear. No wonder they feel the need to bleed the East Bay to fund their operations.
Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

http://www.providencejournal.com/breaking-news/content/20130626-late-budget-change-would-postpone-tolls-on-sakonnet-river-bridge-until-at-least-april.ece

TOLL-DELAY DEAL APPROVAL REPORTED, FINAL STATUS STILL UNCLEAR

There's still some uncertainty & conflicting reports over the status of the toll-delay deal in the House of Reps. The Turnpike & Bridge Authority and RI DOT continue to try to do all they can, contrary to our elected officials, to push tolls on the people of the East Bay. But it appears the House has approved the toll-delay deal as part of the budget. Still looking for definitive confirmation of House approval (when final budget is passed), and info on the likelihood of Senate approval and either approval by the Governor or an override of his veto. More to follow as reliable info becomes available.

Budget talks to resume at 2 p.m. Wednesday - ABC6 - Providence, RI and New Bedford, MA News, Weather

www.abc6.com

Dee DeQuattro ddequattro@abc6.com After over 10 hours 

CHANNEL 12 ARTICLE ON POSSIBLE TOLL-DELAY DEAL

Channel 12 report on the possible delay-of-tolls deal. Will update as more info becomes available.

Sakonnet Tolls May Be on Hold | WPRI.com

www.wpri.com

BREAKING: The chair of the House Finance Committee announced a new amendment to the state budget that would delay the Sakonnet River Bridge toll plan until a

PATCH ARTICLE ON POSSIBLE DEAL TO DELAY SAKONNET TOLLS

Patch article on the potential deal to delay Sakonnet River Bridge tolls until at least April, and form a committee to spend that time looking at alternatives. This will be a big step towards sanity if it's approved.

http://tiverton.patch.com/articles/sakonnet-toll-collection-on-could-be-postponed-until-april

TOLLS DEVELOPMENT AT STATE HOUSE TONIGHT

Sakonnet Times article on SRB tolls developments at the State House today. Will update as more info is available.

Not definite yet, but there may be a big break in the fight to stop the tolls. But even if the tolls are in fact delayed until next April, it just means we have additional time to persuade the General Assembly and Governor of not just the economic destructiveness of these tolls, but the ballot-box consequences of imposing them.

http://www.eastbayri.com/news/house-debates-one-year-toll-delay/

STATE REP. DENNIS CANARIO: TOLLS=DEVASTATION

I am being cautiously optimistic that the House leadership is going to keep tolls off of the Sakonnet Bridge. I cannot stress my statement enough... If tolls come to the Sakonnet Bridge, The ENTIRE state will be effected! This will be complete devastation.

If anyone has not done so yet, please contact your Representative and Senator no matter what part of the state you reside in.

Speaker Fox should personally hear from businesses on how they will be effected (401-222-2486). This is a state wide issue. We cannot afford to further cripple this state.

Lets do the math:
* Loss of state revenue (millions of dollars)
* Loss of business
* Loss of tourism
* Loss of jobs
* Added expense to the average household
* Added hardship to those who cannot afford transponder
* Added expense for school children
* Added expense to state by reimbursing toll fees to state workers
* Added expenses to the state/towns who use the bridge daily
* Added expense to those who seek daily medical care
________________________________________
= Devastation

PLEASE SHARE THIS PAGE. THE ECONOMIC FUTURE OF THIS STATE DEPENDS ON IT!

By: Dennis Canario

NEW ANTI-TOLL EFFORT UNDER WAY: VOTERS AGAINST SAKONNET TOLLS (VAST)

The facts about planned tolls on the Sakonnet River Bridge are undeniable: it’s one of the most destructive, unfair, fiscally irresponsible, and anti-business actions our State government could have concocted. Yet, despite near-universal opposition from area officials, businesses and residents, tolls are looming. Why? What’s become clear is that this is a political problem requiring a political solution.

We’re told the tolls are necessary to fund maintenance of the new bridge, which costs $2 million/year. But RI Turnpike & Bridge Authority plans to collect $20 million/year in tolls; 90% will go to fund RITBA operations that have nothing to do with the bridge. There are several responsible proposals in the General Assembly to fund maintenance without tolls, as in the rest of RI. Beyond using East Bay residents as a piggybank to fund RITBA, there is no logical rationale for these tolls, but there is tremendous downside for the East Bay and the State. 

Anyone needing to cross the bridge daily will be “taxed” $500/year, including businesses and their employees (when both spouses cross daily, it’s a $1000 family tax). An area reliant on out-of-state customers and tourists will lose much of that revenue as many refuse the absurd $10.50 cost of a round-trip. Already-congested roads in Bristol County will get worse as drivers use the Mt. Hope Bridge to avoid tolls. The State will lose a major source of revenue when Newport Grand patrons go elsewhere. And the State’s anti-business image, which State leaders want to reverse, will be reinforced. 

Either our State leaders don’t understand the consequences of these tolls, or aren’t concerned with the East Bay. They have an opportunity now to do the right thing and support budget bills that would rescind the tolls. If they fail to do so, it’s up to us as voters to elect new leaders. This issue is important enough to create many single-issue voters.

“Voters Against Sakonnet Tolls” (VAST) is a non-partisan, grassroots effort, uniting RI voters in pledging to vote only for candidates who actively oppose these tolls. This issue crosses all political views and parties. Voting in a unified way, we can be a deciding factor in statewide races, especially low-turnout primaries. To get involved, visitwww.sakonnettolls.blogspot.com or search “Voters Against Sakonnet Tolls”on Facebook. And spread the word; there is strength in numbers.

East Bay voters have long memories, and this issue isn’t going away. Politicians considering a statewide candidacy at some point will be held accountable for how they acted in our time of need. State government should be responsive to the people, and working on a responsible way to fund infrastructure without destructive tolls, not making things worse.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

FTR RESULTS: FEW VOTERS TURN OUT TO APPROVE ONLY BUDGET OPTION

Just 269 of Tiverton's 12,314 registered voters cast ballots in this year's Financial Town Referendum that approved the Budget Committee's recommended budget & tax proposal (and also approved all six resolutions on the ballot). The outcome of the budget vote was never in doubt, as there was only one budget option on the ballot and no way to reject it (all six resolutions were also approved).

On the one hand, it's great that Tiverton came together around a consensus budget that maintained vital services at a reasonable cost. The Budget Committee, Town Council & School Committee deserve tremendous credit for their hard work and such a professional, thoughtful process after several years of having a political faction using every means to push its political agenda on the people of Tiverton. The importance of electing community-minded people to represent us couldn't be clearer.

On the other hand, because of the provisions of the FTR Charter Amendment voters approved in 2011, somewhere around $10,000 in taxpayer money was spent so 0.02% of voters could cast a vote in this FTR whose result was already decided. The obvious alternative was simply having the sole budget adopted without the time & expense of a meaningless FTR, and it's just one of the flaws in this FTR process that many of us pointed out before and after it was put before voters. We believed then (and still do) that an FTR process is superior to the Financial Town Mtg process many of us spent years trying to replace. But this year's waste of time & money is the result of what started as a non-partisan attempt to create a consensus FTR plan to replace the FTM being subverted by a political faction with its own agenda. 

The Town Charter requires the election of a Charter Review Commission at least every six years, and the last was elected in 2007. Hopefully the upcoming CRC presents voters with a chance to improve the FTR process so that it both respects the will of voters and does so in a smart, cost-effective way.

Brian Medeiros
Tiverton, RI

FTR VOTE IS TOMORROW (TUES. MAY 21)

The annual Financial Town Referendum (FTR) to determine the town and school 
budget and the tax-rate is tomorrow (Tuesday, May 21). Three polling places will 
be open from 7a-8p: VFW Hall, Countryview, & Amicable Church. Sample ballot 
is available at the town website (www.tiverton.ri.gov). 
 
There is only one budget/tax levy option on the ballot, the one proposed by the 
Budget Committee, so it will automatically be approved. It continues to fund 
vital town and school services, and results in a tax-levy increase of 2.2%. 
 
There are also six "resolutions" that voters can approve or reject. Budget 
Committee Resolution 1 would adopt the Budget Committee's itemized budget 
proposal as the official town budget. Budget Committee Resolutions 2-4 would 
restrict certain funds to the purpose for which they were appropriated. Budget 
Committee Resolution 5 would return unused funds to the General Fund at the end 
of the fiscal year (excepting DPW funds for future paving). Town Council 
Resolution 6 would authorize the Council to sell any of five municipally-owned 
buildings at Fair Market Value. This would allow the Council to sell unneeded 
buildings promptly without having to call a special election or wait until next 
year's FTR for required voter approval. 
 
All six resolutions are in keeping with the goals of the budget proposal that 
will automatically be approved, and voters should consider approving them as 
well. 

""COMPLETE WORKS OF SHAKESPEARE" COMEDY AT SANDYWOODS THUR. MAY 9

"The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged)"
A delightful comedy presented by
the Rhode Island Shakespeare Company
THUR. MAY 9 @ 8p
at Sandywoods Center for the Arts
(43 Muse Way, Tiverton)
tickets at door/ adults: $15 / seniors & students: $10
info: Russ Smith @ 241-7349

TIVERTON MEETINGS ON COX CHANNEL 18

Several Tiverton meetings airing tonight & tomorrow (May 6/7) on Cox channel 18:

MON @ 8:00p/ TUE @ noon: FTR Hearing of 5/2 (presentation of Budget Cmte proposal, the only one on the ballot, & resolutions which will be voted up or down by FTR voters)

MON @ 9:35p / TUE @ 1:35p: Town Council Meeting with Planning Board of 4.29 (to hear details of proposed Souza Rd development)

MON @ 11:10p / TUE @ 3:10p: School Committee Meeting of 4.23 (including discussion of the role of standardized testing)

"ANOTHER OPENING, ANOTHER SHOW!": MAY 9, 10, 11 @ THS

Tiverton High School Drama presents "Another Opening Another Show!, a song and dance extravaganza featuring some of the most beloved classic and contemporary Broadway musicals. 

The show includes a cast and crew of 50 students, directed and staged by Gloria Crist with Choreography by Jenni Santos McNamee.  

Performances are May, 9th, 10th and 11th at 7pm and tickets are $10.  For more information please call 401-749-1203.

STATE HOUSE HEARING ON BRIDGE TOLLS: THURS @ 1p

SAKONNET RIVER BRIDGE TOLLS HEARING TOMORROW (THUR APRIL 25) @ 1pm at STATE HOUSE (ROOM 35)

RI House Finance Committee Hearing on proposed legislation to reverse the plan to place tolls on the bridge. Busses will be available. 

Every person interested in reversing this unfair, destructive toll plan is needed to attend & demonstrate unified opposition to tolls, and support for efforts to pass legislation to reverse the tolls plan and fund bridge maintenance in a smarter, fairer and more efficient way.

TIVERTON 1st NIGHT OF MUSIC / TONIGHT @ 7p at SANDYWOODS

The Tiverton 1st Night of Music Show takes place tonight (Friday March 1) @ 7p at Sandywoods.

The incredible lineup of musicians on Friday night, all donating their time and talent, including Kayla Ringelheim, Alexander's Dark Band, Bob Kendall, Seamus Galligan, Doug Mills & Mike Heffernan! BYOB and food if you wish. Tickets are just $10/person at the door. 

All of the proceeds will support Celebrate Tiverton!, a town-wide summer festival that will take place July 26-28 at several different locations in town, including Sandywoods. 

Join your neighbors for a night of fun, in support of a special community-wide event.

T1 MUSICAL BENEFIT: FRIDAY MARCH 1 @ 7p

Please join Tiverton 1st at Sandywoods (43 Muse Way) on Friday March 1st from 7-9pm to sit back, enjoy talented musicians, and help raise funds to help defray the costs of the upcoming town-wide "Celebrate Tiverton!" event. This special night of fun and entertainment is just $10 at the door- BYOB and snacks!! 

"Celebrate Tiverton!" takes place July 26-28 - there are events being planned from North Tiverton to the waterfront, from Sandywoods to South Tiverton! We are planning a kick off cocktail party, a flotilla, beach bonfire, a parade, a summer harvest dinner, and a family friendly outdoor dance party. 

To Tiverton 1st, community is much more than a slogan! Our goal is to honor all parts of our town, bring our community together, and draw visitors into our area to help us celebrate our fabulous town! Please save the dates and look for upcoming announcements and the launch of our new website. 

As always, please feel free to contact us at Tiverton1st@cox.net, follow our blog at www.Tiverton1st.blogspot.com or visit "Tiverton 1st" on Facebook. And if you're not yet a member, consider joining Tiverton 1st. Membership is free and open to all who share Tiverton 1st's pro-community values. Only members are able to comment on the T1 Facebook page, and will receive members-only emails. Join your neighbors in working together to make TIVERTON PROUD and put TIVERTON FIRST!

SAKONNET BRIDGE TOLL / SENATE HEARING REPLAYS ON COX CHANNEL 15

Here are the dates Capitol TV has scheduled to replay Wednesday's Senate hearing on Sakonnet Bridge tolls. Note that any of these replays could possibly be bumped from the channel if a live meeting not currently scheduled is added at that time.

RI STATEWIDE INTERCONNECT CHANNEL C (Cox Channel 15)
(CAPITOL TV)
Thursday, February 14, 2013
11:30 PM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13

Friday, February 15, 2013
11:30 AM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13
11:30 PM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13

Saturday, February 16, 2013
11:30 AM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13

Sunday, February 17, 2013
11:30 PM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13

Monday, February 18, 2013
2:30 PM Senate Committee on Finance 2.13.13

*program can be overridden by live programming.

SAKONNET RIVER BRIDGE TOLL HEARING NOW UNDER WAY ON COX CHANNEL 15

The Senate Committee hearing on Tolls is currently under way and can be viewed on RI Statewide Interconnect Channel C (Cox channel 15).

SAKONNET BRIDGE TOLL HEARINGS THIS WEDNESDAY AT STATE HOUSE

Toll Hearings. REMINDER Wednesday.

Many people are driving up and see below for shuttle as well. Parking is tight up there, so planning on carpooling or taking the shuttle. Please come if at all possible. This is our opportunity to heard and seen!

Per Newport Count Chamber of Commerce:

The Chamber is working with STOP, Sakonnet Toll Opposition Platform, to provide complimentary coach/shuttle service to the Statehouse. The buses will leave the Stop and Shop in Middletown at 2:00 p.m., and will leave Clements Market in Portsmouth 2:15 p.m., and the Park and Ride, Fish Road, Tiverton at 2:30 p.m., and arrive at the Statehouse between 3:00 - 3:30 p.m.. They will be returning at approximately 10:00 p.m.

Please email us if you will be participating by attending the hearings at Jane@newportchamber.com.

If you would like to take advantage of the shuttle, contact Jeanne Smith at 401-683-1764 or email at notolljeanne@cox.net.