Builders sue to speed up permitting process

PROVIDENCE, R.I. --Builders are suing nine Rhode Island communities to speed up the state's permitting process.

The Rhode Island Builders Association says builders confront months-long delays in the issuance of permits that stifle economic development, drive up the cost of construction and frustrate clients.

The association claimes the glacial pace of municipal decision-making violates state law and deprives landowners of their property rights.

The complaint also challenges permit fees, arguing that they exceed the cost of providing the review and amount to an illegal tax that violates the state Constitution.

The towns being sued are Warwick, Cranston, Lincoln, West Warwick, North Kingstown, Cumberland, Newport, North Providence and Woonsocket.

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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.projo.com/