Episode Ten: Candidate Chat with Michael Plante
View the full transcript.
Michael Plante has lived in North Smithfield since 1968. He's raised his children here, his grandchildren are in the school system, and after 43 years as a real estate broker — including managing a $200M/year Fortune 500 operation — he's running for Town Council to bring a business-first approach to local government.
Key Topics in This Episode:
Contaminated School Water: PFOBs in the high school and middle school wells have been above state limits for 5+ years. The town's solution? Blend the wells to stay under 20 — when the state limit is 5.
Budget Reform: "There is no such thing as a budget that does not have fat." Michael shares a striking example of school office secretaries who play solitaire all summer and can't be laid off because it would reduce next year's budget.
Fiduciary Duty: As a real estate broker, Michael's entire career has been built on fiduciary obligation to his clients. He plans to bring that same standard to the Town Council.
Development & Zoning: Cluster zoning, increasing the commercial tax base, and why North Smithfield's anti-development stance could lead to low-income housing being "rammed down our throat."
Halliwell Property: Why a park might not be the right answer, and how condo development could add $500K-$600K in annual tax revenue.
Solar Farms: Clear-cutting 300 acres of forest to reduce carbon footprint — and the wildlife and rural character lost in the process.
Flock Cameras: The town has no jurisdiction over numbered routes, making the entire debate a waste of time.
Quarry Dispute: How a compromise years ago could have saved the town from costly litigation.
About the Guest
Michael Plante is a lifelong North Smithfield resident, real estate broker, and Town Council candidate. Contact him at 401-487-7600.
About Public Comment
Public Comment is a North Smithfield community podcast hosted by Elizabeth Hammond and Sarah LaFontaine — two moms and small business owners who dig through town meetings, headlines, and ordinances to bring you the facts in a clear, honest narrative.
