Beginning this year (FY’19), Roger Williams University pays the town $350,000 per year, with a 1.5% annual escalator thereafter. This is a significant increase from the original agreement of $150,000 signed in 2007.

RWU also provides an additional $100,000 every five years for the purchase of first-responder equipment and vehicles, $25,000 in civic support, and at least four full scholarships to local students. 

This is the answer to one of the most frequent questions I am asked while campaigning.  Since the university is tax exempt, this is a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT). The Council executed an amendment to the agreement in 2017 to gradually increase to the $350,000 level. This took several years to accomplish but is fairer to the taxpayers.

The original agreement was also a major accomplishment for Bristol and it served as a model to other smaller college towns, such as Smithfield.

Mary Parella

Ms. Parella is a Republican candidate for Bristol Town Council.