reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31 - Redevelopment Agencies › Section 45-31-26. - Relocation payments authorized — Definitions.

§ 45-31-26. Relocation payments authorized — Definitions.
Every redevelopment agency created pursuant to § 45-31-9 has the power to make relocation payments to transients or eligible individuals, families, and business concerns for moving expenses and losses of property resulting from their displacement by any redevelopment project undertaken pursuant to the provisions of chapters 31 — 33 of this title subsequent to January 1, 1961, subject to the following conditions:
Definitions:
(1)
“Business concern” includes a corporation, firm, partnership, individual, or other entity engaged in some type of business or profession necessitating fixtures, equipment, stock in trade, or other tangible property for the carrying on of the business or profession. Nonprofit organizations and institutions such as churches and hospitals are included.
(2)
“Eligible individual or family” means an individual or family owning furniture in housing accommodations.
(3)
“Family” means a group of two (2) or more persons living together and related by blood, marriage, or adoption; or two (2) or more single persons not related by blood, marriage or adoption, who are living together in a single housekeeping unit.
(4)
“Individual” means a person who is not a member of a family as defined in subdivision (3).
(5)
“Occupied room” includes all furnished rooms except bathrooms, hallways, and closets.
(6)
“Relocation payments” means payments by a redevelopment agency to transients, eligible individuals or families, and business concerns for their reasonable and necessary moving expenses and any actual direct losses of personal property to business concerns, except good will or profit, resulting from their displacement from any redevelopment project.
(7)
“Transient” means a displaced individual or family not owning furniture but occupying housing accommodations.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 9, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31 - Redevelopment Agencies › Section 45-31-27. - Payments made subject to rules and regulations.

§ 45-31-27. Payments made subject to rules and regulations.
Upon presentation of evidence satisfactory to the agency of the fact of relocation, there may be paid to each individual, transient, or family, a sum of money in accordance with a schedule of payments adopted by the agency based upon the number of occupied rooms. In the case of business concerns, the sum of money to be paid is based upon the actual necessary moving expense incurred and any direct losses sustained to personal property, but not goods kept for sale, good will, or profit. These payments are made subject to rules and regulations that may be prescribed by the agency, and shall not exceed one thousand five hundred dollars ($1,500) in the case of each transient, individual, or family, or seven thousand five hundred dollars ($7,500) in the case of each business concern.
History of Section.
P.L. 1961, ch. 9, § 2; P.L. 1987, ch. 607, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31 - Redevelopment Agencies › Section 45-31-28. - Relocation payments authorized under federally assisted programs.

§ 45-31-28. Relocation payments authorized under federally assisted programs.
Notwithstanding the provisions of §§ 45-31-26 and 45-31-27, every redevelopment agency created pursuant to § 45-31-9, as amended, has the power to make relocation payments under federally assisted programs undertaken by those agencies pursuant to the terms of title I of the Housing Act of 1949, as amended, after January 2, 1971 [mostly omitted by 42 U.S.C. § 5316, which terminated the authority to make most grants or loans after January 1, 1975; see, however, 42 U.S.C. §§ 1452b, 1452c]; these payments may be made upon presentation of evidence satisfactory to the agency of eligibility in accordance with the terms and in the amounts specified for moving and related expenses, replacement housing for homeowners, tenants and certain others, and losses resulting from relocation, all in accordance with and subject to the terms and conditions of that act entitled “An Act to Provide for Uniform and Equitable Treatment of Persons Displaced From Their Homes, Business, or Farms by Federal or Federally Assisted Programs and to Establish Uniform and Equitable Land Acquisition Policies for Federal and Federally Assisted Programs” enacted as Public Law 91-646, 91st congress [42 U.S.C. §§ 4621 — 4638], effective January 2, 1971.
History of Section.
P.L. 1971, ch. 130, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 45-31.1-1. Declaration of policy.
It is found and declared that there exist in the communities of the state certain areas which are basically sound residential areas, but are evidencing the early signs of deterioration and blight because of conditions attributable to noncompliance with provisions of codes of the communities, and if allowed to continue, will create a “deteriorated blighted area” as defined in § 45-31-8(6) as amended, and that a project of intensified code enforcement is required to assure the continuing stability of these areas.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-2. - Redevelopment agency to carry out code enforcement project programs.

§ 45-31.1-2. Redevelopment agency to carry out code enforcement project programs.
Notwithstanding any of the provisions of the “Redevelopment Act of 1956” as amended, the redevelopment agency of each community is empowered to plan and execute projects for the enforcement of all the codes of the community relating to the health, safety, and welfare of the inhabitants of the community with the approval of the legislative body.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-3. - Selection of code enforcement areas — Formulation of plans.

§ 45-31.1-3. Selection of code enforcement areas — Formulation of plans.
The redevelopment agency shall, at the direction of the legislative body of the community, select one or more code enforcement areas and formulate a plan for each area.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-4. - Prior action required.

§ 45-31.1-4. Prior action required.
The redevelopment agency of the community shall not undertake the execution of code enforcement project activities until the legislative body of the community directs the redevelopment agency by ordinance or resolution to undertake those activities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-5. - Public hearing.

§ 45-31.1-5. Public hearing.
The legislative body of the community, or a committee thereof, may, at its discretion, hold a public hearing on the adoption of a code enforcement project program, and shall set a time and fix a place for the public hearing. Notice of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper of general circulation not less than once a week for three (3) successive weeks.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-6. - Powers of redevelopment agency.

§ 45-31.1-6. Powers of redevelopment agency.
Each redevelopment agency has all the powers necessary and convenient to carry out and effectuate the purposes and provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-7. - Cooperation by public bodies.

§ 45-31.1-7. Cooperation by public bodies.
For the purpose of further aiding and cooperating to accomplish the purpose of this chapter, any public body may upon terms, with or without consideration, as it may determine:
(1)
Cause services to be furnished the redevelopment agency of the character which the public body is otherwise empowered to furnish.
(2)
Grant or contribute funds to a redevelopment agency or enter into an agreement with the redevelopment agency to furnish funds or other assistance.
(3)
Do any and all things necessary or convenient to aid and cooperate with the redevelopment agency to accomplish the purposes of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-8. - Appropriation and loans by cities and towns.

§ 45-31.1-8. Appropriation and loans by cities and towns.
Any community is authorized to appropriate moneys raised by taxes or other funds, and may lend or give the moneys to any redevelopment agency to assist in the carrying out of the purposes and provisions of this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-9. - Financial assistance by other public bodies.

§ 45-31.1-9. Financial assistance by other public bodies.
In addition to the powers conferred upon a redevelopment agency by other provisions of this chapter, a redevelopment agency is empowered to borrow money or accept financial or other assistance from the federal or state government or any public body for or in aid of the provisions of this chapter, and, to these ends, comply with conditions attached to them, not inconsistent with the purposes of this chapter with the approval of the legislative body.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.1 - Redevelopment Code Enforcement › Section 45-31.1-10. - Definitions.

§ 45-31.1-10. Definitions.
The following definitions govern the terms included in this chapter:
(1)
“Codes” means any and all rules, resolutions, regulations, and/or ordinances of the community involving, directly or indirectly, the health, safety, and welfare of the residents of the community.
(2)
“Community” means a city or town.
(3)
“Federal government” means the United States of America or any agency or instrumentality, corporate or otherwise, of the United States of America.
(4)
“Legislative body” means the city council or town council.
(5)
“Redevelopment agency” means that agency created by § 45-31-9 as amended.
History of Section.
P.L. 1965, ch. 190, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-1. - Declaration of policy.

§ 45-31.2-1. Declaration of policy.
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a uniform policy for the fair and equitable treatment of persons displaced by the acquisition of real property by the relocation agency. The policy shall be uniform as to (1) relocation payments, (2) advisory assistance, and (3) assurance of availability of standard housing.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-2. - Definitions.

§ 45-31.2-2. Definitions.
As used in this chapter, the term:
(1)
“Business” means any lawful activity, excepting a farm operation, conducted primarily:
(i)
For the purchase, sale, lease, and rental of personal and real property, and for the manufacture, processing, or marketing of products, commodities, or any other personal property;
(ii)
For sale of services to the public;
(iii)
By a nonprofit organization; or
(iv)
Solely for the purposes of § 45-31.2-3(a), for assisting in the purchase, sale, resale, manufacture, processing, or marketing of products, commodities, personal property, or services by the erection and maintenance of an outdoor advertising display or displays, whether or not the display or displays are located on the premises on which any of those activities are conducted.
(2)
“Displaced person” means any person who, on or after January 2, 1971, moves from real property, or moves his or her personal property from real property, as a result of the acquisition of that real property, in whole or in part, or as the result of the written order of the acquiring agency to vacate real property, for a program or project undertaken by a relocation agency; and, solely for the purposes of §§ 45-31.2-3(a) and (b) and 45-31.2-6(a) and (b), as a result of the acquisition of or as the result of the written order of the acquiring agency to vacate other real property, on which the person conducts a business or farm operation, for the program or project.
(3)
“Farm operation” means any activity conducted solely or primarily for the production of one or more agricultural products or commodities, including timber, for sale or home use, and customarily producing those products or commodities in sufficient quantity to be capable of contributing materially to the operator’s support.
(4)
“Nonprofit organization” means any nonbusiness corporation duly organized under chapter 6 of title 7.
(5)
“Person” means any individual partnership, corporation, or association.
(6)
“Relocation agency” means any agency, state or local, receiving federal assistance to carry out a relocation program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-3. - Moving and related expenses.

§ 45-31.2-3. Moving and related expenses.
(a)
If a relocation agency acquires real property for public use, it shall make fair and reasonable relocation payments to displaced persons and businesses as required by this chapter, for:
(1)
Actual reasonable expenses in moving him or herself, his or her family, business, farm operation, or other personal property;
(2)
Actual direct losses of tangible personal property as a result of moving or discontinuing a business or farm operation, but not to exceed an amount equal to the reasonable expenses required to relocate the property, as determined by the relocation agency; and
(3)
Actual reasonable expenses in searching for a replacement business or farm.
(b)
Any displaced person eligible for payments under subsection (a), who is displaced from a dwelling and who elects to accept the payments authorized by this subsection in lieu of the payments authorized by subsection (a), may receive a moving expense allowance, determined according to a schedule established by the relocation agency, not to exceed the amount established by the federal law; and a dislocation allowance of an amount established by federal law.
(c)
Any displaced person eligible for payments under subsection (a), who is displaced from his or her place of business or from his or her farm operation and who elects to accept the payment authorized by this subsection in lieu of the payment authorized by subsection (a), may receive a fixed payment in an amount equal to the average annual net earnings of the business or farm operation, except that the payment shall not be less than an amount established by the federal law nor more than an amount established by the federal law. In the case of a business, no payment shall be made under this subsection unless the relocation agency is satisfied that the business (1) cannot be relocated without a substantial loss of its existing patronage, and (2) is not a part of a commercial enterprise having at least one other establishment not being acquired by the state, which is engaged in the same or similar business. For purposes of this subsection, the term “average annual net earnings” means one-half (½) of any net earnings of the business or farm operation, before federal, state, and local income taxes, during the two (2) taxable years immediately preceding the taxable year in which the business or farm operation moves from the real property acquired for the project, or during another period that the agency determines to be more equitable for establishing the earnings, and includes any compensation paid by the business or farm operation to the owner, the owner’s spouse, or the owner’s dependents during that period.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-4. - Payment for replacement housing for displaced homeowners.

§ 45-31.2-4. Payment for replacement housing for displaced homeowners.
(a)
In addition to payments otherwise authorized by this chapter, the relocation agency shall make an additional payment not in excess of an amount established by federal law to any displaced person who is displaced from a dwelling actually owned and occupied by the displaced person for not less than one hundred and eighty (180) days prior to the initiation of negotiations for the acquisition of the property. The additional payment includes the following elements:
(1)
The amount, if any, which, when added to the acquisition cost of the dwelling acquired, equals the reasonable cost of a comparable replacement dwelling which is a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling adequate to accommodate the displaced person, reasonably accessible to public services and places of employment, and available on the private market. All determinations required to carry out this subdivision are determined by regulations issued pursuant to § 45-31.2-8.
(2)
The amount, if any, which will compensate the displaced person for any increased interest costs which the person is required to pay for financing the acquisition of the comparable replacement dwelling. The amount is paid only if the dwelling acquired was encumbered by a bona fide mortgage which was a valid lien on the dwelling for not less than one hundred and eighty (180) days prior to the initiation of negotiations for the acquisition of the dwelling. The amount shall be equal to the excess in the aggregate interest and other debt service costs of that amount of the principal of the mortgage on the replacement dwelling which is equal to the unpaid balance of the mortgage on the acquired dwelling, over the remainder term of the mortgage on the acquired dwelling, reduced to discounted present value. The discount rate is determined by regulations issued pursuant to § 45-31.2-8.
(3)
Reasonable expenses incurred by the displaced person for evidence of title, recording fees, and other closing costs incident to the purchase of the replacement dwelling, but not including prepaid expenses.
(b)
The additional payment authorized by this section is made only to a displaced person who purchases and occupies a replacement dwelling which is decent, safe, and sanitary not later than the end of the one year period beginning on the date on which he or she receives final payment of all costs of the acquired dwelling, or on the date on which he or she moves from the acquired dwelling, whichever is the later date.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-5. - Payment for replacement housing for displaced tenants and certain others.

§ 45-31.2-5. Payment for replacement housing for displaced tenants and certain others.
In addition to amounts otherwise authorized by this chapter, a relocation agency shall make a payment to or for any displaced person displaced from any dwelling not eligible to receive a payment under § 45-31.2-4 which dwelling was actually and lawfully occupied by the displaced person for not less than ninety (90) days prior to the initiation of negotiations for acquisition of the dwelling. The payment is either:
(1)
The amount necessary to enable the displaced person to lease or rent for a period not to exceed any limitation provided in federal law, a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling of standards adequate to accommodate the person in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and public and commercial facilities, and reasonably accessible to his or her place of employment, but not to exceed the amount established by the federal law; or
(2)
The amount necessary to enable the person to make a down payment (including incidental expenses described in § 45-31.2-4(a)(3)), on the purchase of a decent, safe, and sanitary dwelling of standards adequate to accommodate the person in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and public and commercial facilities, but not to exceed the amount established by federal law, except that if the amount exceeds the amount established by federal law, in making the down payment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-6. - Relocation assistance advisory programs.

§ 45-31.2-6. Relocation assistance advisory programs.
(a)
Whenever the acquisition of real property for a program or project undertaken by a relocation agency results in the displacement of any person on or after January 2, 1971, the agency shall provide a relocation assistance advisory program for displaced persons which offers the services prescribed in this chapter. If the relocation agency determines that any person occupying property immediately adjacent to the real property acquired is caused substantial economic injury because of the acquisition, it may offer the person relocation advisory services under the program.
(b)
Each relocation assistance program required by subsection (a) includes measures, facilities, or services that may be necessary or appropriate in order to:
(1)
Determine the needs of displaced persons, business concerns, and nonprofit organizations for relocation assistance;
(2)
Assist owners of displaced businesses and farm operations in obtaining and becoming established in suitable business locations or replacement farms;
(3)
Supply information concerning programs of the federal, state, and local governments offering assistance to displaced persons and business concerns;
(4)
Assist in minimizing hardships to displaced persons in adjusting to relocation; and
(5)
Secure, to the greatest extent practicable, the coordination of relocation activities with other project activities and other planned or proposed governmental actions in the community or nearby areas which may affect the carrying out of the relocation program.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-7. - Assurance of availability of standard housing.

§ 45-31.2-7. Assurance of availability of standard housing.
Whenever the acquisition of real property for a program or project undertaken by a relocation agency results in the displacement of any person on or after January 2, 1972, the agency shall assure that, within a reasonable period of time, prior to displacement, there will be available, in areas not generally less desirable in regard to public utilities and public and commercial facilities, and at rents or prices within the financial means of the families and individuals displaced, decent, safe, and sanitary dwellings equal in number to the number of and available to those displaced persons who require those dwellings and reasonably accessible to their places of employment; except that regulations issued pursuant to § 45-31.2-8 may prescribe situations when these assurances may be waived.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-8. - Authority of the relocation agency.

§ 45-31.2-8. Authority of the relocation agency.
(a)
The relocation agency shall adopt rules and regulations as may be necessary to assure:
(1)
That the payments and assistance authorized by this chapter are administered in a manner which is fair and reasonable, and as uniform as practicable;
(2)
That a displaced person who makes proper application for a payment authorized for the person by this chapter is paid promptly after a move or, in hardship cases, paid in advance; and
(3)
That any person aggrieved by a determination as to eligibility for a payment authorized by this chapter, or the amount of a payment, may have his or her application reviewed by the head of the relocation agency.
(b)
The relocation agency may prescribe other regulations and procedures, consistent with the provisions of this chapter, as it deems necessary or appropriate to carry out this chapter.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-9. - Administration.

§ 45-31.2-9. Administration.
In order to prevent unnecessary expense and duplication of functions, and to promote uniform and effective administration of relocation assistance programs for displaced persons, the relocation agency may authorize any relocation agency to enter into contracts with any individual, firm, association, or corporation for services in connection with those programs, or may carry out its functions under this chapter through any federal or state agency or instrumentality having an established organization for conducting relocation assistance programs.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-10. - Payments not to be considered as income or resources.

§ 45-31.2-10. Payments not to be considered as income or resources.
No payment received by a displaced person under this chapter shall be considered income or resources for the purpose of determining the eligibility or extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under any state law, or for the purposes of determining the eligibility or extent of eligibility of any person for assistance under any state law, or for the purposes of the state’s personal income tax law, corporation tax law, or other tax laws. These payments shall not be considered income or resources of any recipient of public assistance and the payments shall not be deducted from the amount of aid to which the recipient would otherwise be entitled.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-31.2 - Uniform Relocation Payments › Section 45-31.2-11. - Appeal procedure.

§ 45-31.2-11. Appeal procedure.
Any person or business concern aggrieved by final administrative determination, concerning eligibility for relocation payments authorized by this chapter, may appeal the determination to the superior court in the county in which the land taken for public use is located pursuant to the provisions of chapter 35 of title 42.
History of Section.
P.L. 1972, ch. 129, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-1. - Compliance prerequisite to further proceedings.

§ 45-32-1. Compliance prerequisite to further proceedings.
A community must comply with the requirements of §§ 45-32-2 — 45-32-3 before proceeding further under chapters 31 — 33 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 24; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-1; P.L. 2018, ch. 156, § 1; P.L. 2018, ch. 292, § 1.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-2. - Planning commission required.

§ 45-32-2. Planning commission required.
The community must have a planning commission.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 25; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-3. - General community plan — Minimum requirements.

§ 45-32-3. General community plan — Minimum requirements.
The community must have a master or general community plan adopted by the planning commission or the legislative body, and in either case the plan must include at least the following:
(1)
A land use plan which designates the proposed general distribution and general location and extent of the uses of the land for housing, business, industry, recreation, education, public buildings and grounds, and other categories of public and private uses of land.
(2)
The general location and extent of existing and proposed major thoroughfares.
(3)
A statement of the standards of population density and building intensity recommended in and for the various districts and other territorial units, together with estimates of future population growth, in the territory covered by the plan, all correlated with the land use plan.
(4)
A description of the area or areas in which blighted and substandard conditions are found and recommendations as to the area or areas which should be designated for redevelopment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 26; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-3.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-4. - Resolution or ordinance designating redevelopment area — Public hearing.

§ 45-32-4. Resolution or ordinance designating redevelopment area — Public hearing.
The legislative body of the community must designate by resolution or ordinance one or more areas within the community as a redevelopment area or areas. (Whenever the word “resolution” is used, it means “resolution or ordinance.”) Each resolution shall include a description of the boundaries of the area or areas designated as a redevelopment area. Before passing a resolution, the legislative body or the committee thereof, to which the proposed resolution has been referred, shall give notice of the date, time, place, and purpose of a public hearing or hearings with reference to the resolution at which the recommendations of the planning commission developed in accordance with the provisions of § 45-32-3 shall be considered. The notice shall be published not less than once a week for three (3) successive weeks prior to the hearing in a newspaper of general circulation published in the community, or if no newspaper is published in the community, then in a newspaper of general circulation in the community. At the public hearing all interested persons or agencies shall have an opportunity to be heard and to submit communications in writing. The public hearing required by this section may be held jointly with the hearing upon a redevelopment plan for a project area, as provided in § 45-32-11, if the legislative body so directs. Any person, group, association, or corporation may, in writing, petition the legislative body to designate one or more areas within the community as redevelopment areas, and may submit, with their petition, plans, showing the proposed redevelopment of those areas or any part or parts of the areas.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 27; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-4; P.L. 1958, ch. 180, § 2.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-6. - Selection of project areas — Formulation of redevelopment plans.

§ 45-32-6. Selection of project areas — Formulation of redevelopment plans.
The redevelopment agency may of its own motion, or at the direction of the legislative body, select one or more project areas comprising all or a portion of a redevelopment area, and formulate a redevelopment plan for each project area. Redevelopment plans may be prepared by the planning commission in the event the members of the agency have not been appointed or at the request of the agency.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 14; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-6.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-7. - Submission of redevelopment plans — Conformity to master plan.

§ 45-32-7. Submission of redevelopment plans — Conformity to master plan.
All redevelopment plans shall be submitted to the legislative body by the redevelopment agency. Every redevelopment plan shall conform to the master or general community plan insofar as the latter applies to the redevelopment area. The agency shall consult with the planning commission of the community in formulating redevelopment plans before their submission to the legislative body. Whenever a redevelopment plan is submitted to the legislative body, a copy of the plan shall be submitted to the planning commission, which shall report to the legislative body within thirty (30) days on the redevelopment plan and its conformity to the master or general plan of the community.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 45; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-7.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-8. - Contents of redevelopment plan.

§ 45-32-8. Contents of redevelopment plan.
The redevelopment plan shall include, without limitation, the following:
(1)
A description of the boundaries and location of the project area;
(2)
A description of the existing blighted and substandard conditions in the project area;
(3)
A plan describing proposed land uses in the project area;
(4)
Proposed standards of population densities, land coverage, and building intensities;
(5)
A description of proposed changes in streets and utilities;
(6)
A description of proposed changes in zoning or exceptions, variances, or modifications;
(7)
A general statement showing that the proposed redevelopment plan conforms to the master or general community plan;
(8)
A statement showing the lands in the project area to be acquired and buildings or structures to be demolished and removed;
(9)
A general statement of proposed conditions, covenants, and other restrictions controlling the disposal and future use of land and buildings in the project area;
(10)
A general statement of the extent of relocation resulting from the proposed redevelopment of the area and the proposed method for rehousing of displaced persons;
(11)
A statement of the estimated cost of carrying out the redevelopment plan, and a description of the method of financing the proposed redevelopment project; and
(12)
A general statement showing how the purposes of chapters 31 — 33 of this title would be attained by redevelopment.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 46; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-8.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-9. - Optional features of redevelopment plans.

§ 45-32-9. Optional features of redevelopment plans.
A redevelopment plan may, without limitation, provide for the following:
(1)
A program of voluntary repair and rehabilitation of buildings and other improvements within the project area in accordance with the redevelopment plan; and/or
(2)
Acquisition of single or scattered parcels of real property within the project area and demolition or removal of buildings or improvements where necessary to eliminate unhealthful, unsanitary, or unsafe conditions, lessen density, reduce traffic hazards, eliminate obsolete or other uses detrimental to the public health, safety, morals, or welfare, or otherwise to remove or prevent the spread of blight or deterioration, or to provide land for needed community facilities.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 47; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-9.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-10. - Petition for zoning changes.

§ 45-32-10. Petition for zoning changes.
In order to effectuate a redevelopment plan, the agency may petition the legislative body for a revision, amendment, or modification of zoning ordinances affecting the area covered by the redevelopment plan, concurrently with the submission of the redevelopment plan by the agency to the legislative body, or, at any time thereafter; provided, that the revision, amendment, or modification is stated in the redevelopment plan. The public hearing on the petition may be conducted in conjunction with the hearing on the redevelopment plan required by § 45-32-11; provided, that the provisions of §§ 45-24-4 and 45-24-5 are applicable to the petition.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 61; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-10.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-11. - Notice of hearing on plan.

§ 45-32-11. Notice of hearing on plan.
Upon submission to the legislative body of a redevelopment plan, the legislative body or its committee to which the plan has been referred, shall set a time and fix a place for a public hearing on the adoption of the plan. The time of hearing shall not be more than sixty (60) days after receipt by the legislative body of the redevelopment plan from the agency. Notice of the hearing shall be given by publication in a newspaper in the same manner and to the same extent as provided for publication of notice in § 45-32-4.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 48; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-11.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-12. - Conduct of hearing.

§ 45-32-12. Conduct of hearing.
At the hearing the legislative body, or its committee to which the plan has been referred, shall consider the plan, any report of the planning commission, and any recommendations the agency may make, and take any other evidence and testimony that may be presented concerning the matters under consideration.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 49; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-12.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-13. - Adoption of plan.

§ 45-32-13. Adoption of plan.
If the legislative body determines that the redevelopment plan is feasible and conforms to the general plan for the community, and that if carried out would promote the public health, safety, morals, and welfare of the community, and would effectuate the purposes of chapters 31 — 33 of this title, then the legislative body may adopt the plan by ordinance.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 50; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-13.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-14. - Provision for expenditure of money.

§ 45-32-14. Provision for expenditure of money.
If the plan provides for the expenditure of any money by the community, the legislative body shall provide for the expenditure at the time or in connection with the approval of the plan; provided, that nothing contained in this chapter enlarges the power of a town council to make an appropriation which has not been approved by a financial town meeting.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 51; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-14.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-15. - Declaration of intent to change streets.

§ 45-32-15. Declaration of intent to change streets.
If the plan provides for the opening, closing, widening, or changing the grade of existing streets or alleys or any other modification of the existing street layout in the project area, the legislative body shall declare its intention to institute these proceedings at the time or in connection with the adoption of the plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 52; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-15.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-16. - Provision for payment for property condemned.

§ 45-32-16. Provision for payment for property condemned.
If the plan provides for the condemnation of any real property, the legislative body shall not adopt the plan unless it contains adequate provisions for payment for property so acquired as provided by law.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 53; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-16.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-17. - Finding as to federal aid.

§ 45-32-17. Finding as to federal aid.
If the plan provides for financial aid from the federal government, that provision of the plan shall not be approved by the legislative body unless it finds that the financial aid from the federal government provided for in the plan is necessary to enable the land in the project area to be redeveloped in accordance with the redevelopment plan.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 54; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-17.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-18. - Provisions for control of uses.

§ 45-32-18. Provisions for control of uses.
No plan shall be approved unless it provides for the retention of controls and the establishment of any restrictions or covenants which may run with the real property sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of for private or public use for those periods of time and under conditions that in the judgment of the legislative body are necessary to effectuate the purposes of chapters 31 — 33 of this title.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 55; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-18.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-19. - Power over zoning ordinances.

§ 45-32-19. Power over zoning ordinances.
Notwithstanding the provisions of any other statute to the contrary, the legislative body has power by ordinance to revise, amend, and modify zoning ordinances affecting the area covered in a redevelopment plan in accordance with § 45-32-10.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 60; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-19.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-20. - Contents of adoptive ordinance.

§ 45-32-20. Contents of adoptive ordinance.
The adoption of a redevelopment plan by a legislative body shall be by ordinance. The ordinance shall:
(1)
Designate the project by area, name, and number.
(2)
Include findings that the project area is blighted and substandard and requires clearance, replanning, redevelopment, rehabilitation, or improvement or any combination of these remedies.
(3)
State the purposes and intent of the legislative body with respect to the project area.
(4)
Refer specifically to the determinations required in §§ 45-32-13 — 45-32-18.
(5)
Incorporate by reference the redevelopment plan.
(6)
Designate the approved plan as the official redevelopment plan for the project area.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 56; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-20.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-21. - Responsibility for carrying out plan.

§ 45-32-21. Responsibility for carrying out plan.
After enactment of the ordinance described in § 45-32-20, the responsibility for carrying out the plan is vested in the agency.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 57; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-21.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-22. - Further proceedings as to redevelopment — Actions to contest validity.

§ 45-32-22. Further proceedings as to redevelopment — Actions to contest validity.
Upon the adoption of the redevelopment plan, further proceedings with reference to the redevelopment of the project area may be commenced immediately by the agency. Actions to contest the validity of the proceedings prescribed by §§ 45-32-11 — 45-32-21 must commence within thirty (30) days after the adoption of the redevelopment plan, and no action thereafter commenced shall raise any question concerning the validity of the proceedings and the adoption of the redevelopment plan provided for in the foregoing provisions of this chapter and chapter 31 of this title. After the expiration of that period of thirty (30) days, the validity of the proceedings and the adoption of the redevelopment plan shall be conclusively presumed. Any petition to stay the agency from proceeding with the redevelopment plan shall be assigned for hearing by the superior court of the county within which the land lies within seven (7) days from the date of filing, and all proceedings under this chapter shall take precedence over all civil suits pending before the court. The court, after formal hearing, may deny the petition or enjoin the agency from proceeding further, in whole or in part, or may make another order that it deems appropriate.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 58; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-22.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-23. - Modification of plan.

§ 45-32-23. Modification of plan.
Upon the recommendation of the agency, a redevelopment plan may be modified at any time by the legislative body or by the legislative body at its own discretion. The legislative body may, at its discretion, hold a public hearing on the proposed modification provided, that, if the plan is modified after lease or sale by the agency of real property in the project area, the modification shall be subject to rights at law and in equity as the lessee or purchaser, or his or her successor or successors or assigns in interest, may be entitled to assert.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 59; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-23.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-24. - Power of eminent domain.

§ 45-32-24. Power of eminent domain.
Notwithstanding the provisions of any other law, each agency has the right to acquire all or any part of the real property or any estate or interest in it within a project area, by the exercise of the power of eminent domain, whenever it is judged by the agency that the acquisition of the real property or any estate or interest in it is in the public interest and necessary for the public use.
History of Section.
P.L. 1956, ch. 3654, § 64; G.L. 1956, § 45-32-24.
2023 Rhode Island General Laws › Title 45 - Towns and Cities › Chapter 45-32 - Redevelopment Projects › Section 45-32-24.1. - Finding with respect to use of the power of eminent domain with respect to recreational redevelopment projects that create and/or preserve jobs within the state and projects financed with incremental tax revenues.

§ 45-32-24.1. Finding with respect to use of the power of eminent domain with respect to recreational redevelopment projects that create and/or preserve jobs within the state and projects financed with incremental tax revenues.
(a)
The general assembly hereby determines and declares that the financing, construction, and development of recreational projects (as defined in § 42-34-6(4)), with planned redevelopment of the surrounding project area, and projects financed with incremental tax revenues pursuant to chapters 31, 32, 33, 33.2, and 33.4 of title 45 in municipalities with a population greater than 60,000 but less than 80,000 that will create and/or preserve jobs within the state, are public uses of statewide concern and are in the interest of, and for benefit of, the citizens of the state, and will contribute substantially to the social and economic well-being of the citizens of the state and significantly enhance the economic development and employment opportunities within the state; and
(b)
The general assembly hereby determines and declares that government support in facilitating the presence of recreational projects (as defined in § 42-34-6(4)), with planned redevelopment of the surrounding project area and projects financed with incremental tax revenues pursuant to chapters 31, 32, 33, 33.2, and 33.4 of title 45 in municipalities with a population greater than 60,000 but less than 80,000, and the creation and/or preservation of jobs within the state, provides to the state and its citizens highly valued intangible benefits that increase and/or improve the quality of life and civic relationships of their citizens.
History of Section.
P.L. 2018, ch. 103, § 4; P.L. 2019, ch. 118, § 3; P.L. 2019, ch. 143, § 3.