• The Proposal: Mayor Charles Lombardi has proposed a 7% tax increase, significantly exceeding Rhode Island’s state-mandated 4% municipal tax cap.
• The "Why": * New Schools: The primary driver is an $8.5 million debt service payment following a voter-approved $125 million bond for all-new elementary schools.
• Hospital Revenue Loss: A $3.3 million shortfall caused by the sale and status change of Fatima Hospital.
• The "Cap" Hurdle: Because the increase is 7%, the Town Council must seek special authorization from the Rhode Island General Assembly to override the 4% limit.
• Mayor’s Defense: Lombardi highlights that the town had no tax increases for 10 of the last 12 years and frames this as a necessary cost for infrastructure the public voted for.

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