Legislation has been filed in Rhode Island in response to a controversial vote on financing for Pawtucket’s new soccer stadium. The bill introduced by Senator Samuel D. Zurier would require a two-thirds majority for future votes by the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation board, following a tied vote in July 2022 that allowed most of the approved $27 million support for the stadium project. Critics raised concerns that committing all funds to the stadium could leave the state without housing, commercial, or retail development. In response, Zurier’s bill aims to ensure a higher threshold for board approval in the future. The developer recently announced plans for residential buildings and an apartment complex, adding to the stadium project. Zurier’s bill seeks to prevent similar controversies in the future by requiring a two-thirds majority for all major votes by the Commerce Corporation board. The bill has been referred to the Senate Commerce Committee for further study. Governor Daniel J. McKee, who chairs the Commerce Corporation board, will review the bill if it reaches his desk. The proposed legislation aims to address concerns raised by the financing of the stadium project and improve decision-making processes for the Commerce Corporation board.
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