Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 880 - QUONSET DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
Rhode Island Code of Regulations (RICR) Title 880 – Quonset Development Corporation
Title 880 of the Rhode Island Code of Regulations (RICR) governs the Quonset Development Corporation (QDC), which is a public corporation established by the state of Rhode Island. The purpose of the QDC is to oversee and manage the development, use, and operation of the Quonset Business Park (formerly the Quonset Point Naval Base) and its surrounding areas, transforming it into a business and industrial hub.
Purpose of Title 880
Title 880 outlines the regulations and operational guidelines for the Quonset Development Corporation, emphasizing:
Management of the Quonset Business Park.
Land use, leasing, and property development within the park.
Ensuring economic development and job creation in Rhode Island.
Regulatory authority for business operations within the park.
Environmental stewardship and planning for sustainable development.
Key Provisions of Title 880
1. Establishment and Governance of the Quonset Development Corporation
The Quonset Development Corporation is a quasi-public entity established under Rhode Island state law to manage the Quonset Business Park, which is located in North Kingstown.
Board of Directors: The QDC is governed by a Board of Directors, which provides oversight and strategic direction for the corporation. The Board is composed of members appointed by the Governor and other officials.
The Executive Director of the QDC is responsible for the daily operations and management of the park.
2. Powers and Functions of the Quonset Development Corporation
The QDC has a broad range of powers to fulfill its mission:
Land Management: The QDC is responsible for the leasing and sale of property within the Quonset Business Park. This includes managing the land and ensuring that it is developed in accordance with state policies and economic goals.
Economic Development: The corporation fosters business growth and job creation within the park. This includes attracting new businesses, promoting industrial development, and ensuring a sustainable economic environment.
Environmental and Planning Oversight: The QDC has the authority to implement environmental plans and ensure that development is carried out in a manner that protects the local ecosystem and complies with state environmental regulations.
Financing and Infrastructure: The QDC can issue bonds, take on debt, and allocate funding for infrastructure development and business incentives within the park.
3. Land Use and Leasing Regulations
Property Development: The regulations within Title 880 set forth guidelines for property development in the Quonset Business Park, including approval processes for new buildings, expansions, and modifications to existing facilities.
Leasing Policies: Title 880 outlines the processes and conditions for leasing land or space within the Quonset Business Park. This includes leasing terms, rent rates, and criteria for tenant eligibility.
Zoning and Land Use: The QDC operates under specific zoning regulations that define how land within the park can be used (e.g., industrial, commercial, office spaces). It is empowered to amend zoning regulations within the park as needed to meet economic goals.
4. Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability
Environmental Protection: The QDC is required to comply with state and federal environmental laws, ensuring that development projects do not harm the local ecosystem. This includes managing stormwater, waste disposal, and protecting wildlife habitats.
Sustainable Development: Regulations under Title 880 encourage sustainable building practices, energy efficiency, and the reduction of the carbon footprint of businesses and infrastructure within the park.
5. Business Incentives and Support Programs
The QDC may offer incentives such as tax credits, grants, and subsidies to businesses that establish operations within the Quonset Business Park. These incentives are intended to attract businesses, stimulate economic development, and create jobs in Rhode Island.
Small Business Support: The QDC also has provisions to support small businesses and entrepreneurs, offering them access to affordable space and development resources.
6. Reporting and Accountability
Annual Reports: The QDC is required to submit annual reports to the state, detailing its operations, financial status, and achievements in fulfilling its mission.
Transparency and Accountability: The corporation is subject to regular audits and must adhere to transparency requirements in terms of its financial transactions and development activities.
Public Meetings: The QDC holds public meetings and invites input from the community and stakeholders on significant development plans or policy changes.
7. Workforce Development and Job Creation
Title 880 includes provisions aimed at workforce development, ensuring that the businesses within the park provide local job opportunities and contribute to the economic vitality of the region.
The QDC may collaborate with educational institutions and workforce development programs to align job creation efforts with local talent pools and training initiatives.
Significance of Title 880
Economic Growth: Title 880 helps foster economic growth in Rhode Island by promoting the Quonset Business Park as a competitive site for businesses, which, in turn, creates job opportunities and enhances the state's economic profile.
Sustainability: Through its environmental and sustainable development regulations, the QDC ensures that growth within the park is balanced with ecological responsibility.
Business Support: The regulation ensures that businesses in the park receive the support and incentives necessary to thrive, thus contributing to the overall business ecosystem in Rhode Island.
Public Oversight and Accountability: By requiring annual reports and public meetings, Title 880 maintains transparency in the operation of the QDC and keeps the public informed about its activities.
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