Pawtucket voters decide whether city can borrow for road safety work

The law authorizes Pawtucket to borrow up to $2.5 million for road safety work and related costs. The money may pay for improving or replacing road safety features and traffic controls in Pawtucket, along with related costs. Most of the law takes effect only if a majority of voters voting on the question approve it. The city council sets the amounts and terms of bond issues by resolution. Sections 13 and 14 take effect upon passage. The rest of the law takes effect upon voter approval; bond payments must be made in annual installments, with the first due within three years and the last within 30 years after issuance.

Pawtucket submits the approval question to voters at the next general election, or at an earlier qualifying special election if the mayor directs. Pawtucket electors decide whether to approve the law. An earlier election must be a special city-wide or state election, not a primary, called before the general election. The vote takes place at the next general election unless an earlier qualifying special election is called and the mayor directs that the question be submitted there.

The city provides for annual repayment of bonds and notes issued under the law, using property taxes if other money does not cover the amount due. This applies to bonds and notes issued under the law and taxable property in Pawtucket. If the city does not set aside enough money for principal and interest due that year, the amount is added to the annual tax levy. The city must provide for principal and interest due each year.