650 R.I. Code R. § 650-RICR-20-00-1.5 Public and Governmental Participation

• Library: Rhode Island Administrative Code
• Edition: 2023
• Currency: Current through December 28, 2023
• Year: 2023
• Citation: 650 R.I. Code R. § 650-RICR-20-00-1.5

A. Policies and regulations

1. Public participation is necessary in all phases of program development and implementation. Therefore, it shall be the policy of the Council to promote the participation of federal, state, and local governmental bodies, public and private organizations, and private citizens in the preparation of its plans, programs, policies and regulations.

2. The Council shall cooperate with other governmental agencies in all matters of mutual interest. The Council through its adopted procedures shall ensure a continuous flow of information among agencies in the development of its plans and studies before these are completed and adopted. The Council shall also solicit and consider the opinion of other agencies on any matter before the Council which significantly affects those agencies.

3. The Council shall work with local officials from Rhode Island's municipalities to facilitate the coordination of the Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Program and local plans.

4. The Council finds that an open, traceable decision-making process is essential for an effective coastal management program, and where required should be done in an open transparent public forum. The Council will therefore follow the procedures set forth in the Coastal Resources Management Program, including applicable Special Area Management Plans, for all permit applications which, by regulation come before it.

5. The Council finds that full participation by interested and/or affected groups is essential in the development of Council policies and regulations The Council finds it can best foster such participation by adopting the following policies: a. The Council will provide opportunities for public and governmental input in the development of its policies and regulations (1) The Council and its staff will consult with experts, professionals and interest groups in the preparation of technical reports upon which policies are based. (2) Plans and reports upon which policies and regulations are based shall be made available to the public. (3) The Council shall form advisory committees and hold meetings and workshops to formulate and discuss proposed policies as necessary. b....