Court rules for retirees in pension dispute with Providence

Rhode Island's Supreme Court has dealt a legal setback to Providence in disputes with retired city workers that could prove costly. The city violated the U.S. and state constitutions in 2012 when it suspended cost-of-living adjustments on retiree pensions for an indefinite amount of time, the court ruled Tuesday. The high court handed down three decisions in cases brought by employees and unions over how the city sought to fix its finances. The court overturned all or part of lower court decisions that found in favor of the city and dismissed the lawsuits. The biggest decision found that if the pension plan for city employees and retirees is changed by the courts, it can’t be changed again by the City Council, unless the workers agree. That means the city’s 2012 pension reform does not apply to several dozen retired firefighters and police officers.
The Call

Update: Garage-like structure at Charlestown home heavily damaged in fire started by lightning

A garage-like structure outside a Klondike Road home is considered a total loss after a lightning strike Monday evening caused a blaze that caused heavy damage. Members of the Dunn's Corners Fire Department were called to the home, located at 509 Klondike Road, around 5 p.m. after a second wave of powerful storms barreled their way through the region around 4:30 p.m. They were assisted in the response by mutual aid from the Westerly Fire Department, Ashaway Volunteer Fire Association and Charlestown-Richmond Volunteer Fire Company. Personnel with the Charlestown Ambulance Rescue Service and Charlestown Police Department also aided in the response. Police and fire officials confirmed Tuesday that the building was "well-separated" from the home, and that residents were already out of danger by the time responders arrived.
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