The battle over wastewater between Woonsocket and North Smithfield

Research methodology This case study draws on interviews conducted with officials from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), City Woonsocket and Town North Smithfield. Additionally, it pulls relevant legal documents, recordings minutes meetings Council Smithfield Council, resolutions, state legislation local press coverage. Case overview/synopsis From 2012–2017, communities engaged in a protracted dispute concerning wastewater disposal. For 30 years, two jurisdictions had maintained signed service agreement. Following its expiration; however, imposed new host fee needed to upgrade facility comply mandates RI DEM. Over next five leaders both vociferously fought over fee. At same time, within experienced their own divisions. highlights challenges that decision-makers faced communities. Complexity academic level is appropriate for graduate executive courses environmental policy, communication leadership.