Despite months of pushback from local fishermen and shoreline access advocates, the Watch Hill Lighthouse in Westerly is now in the hands of a private nonprofit, with no guarantee of public access. And Rhode Island is home to a lot of short-term rentals, via sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. Opponents say they can be disruptive, and contribute to the long-term housing shortage. We hear from the chair of a new State House commission that’s looking at the impact of short-term rentals on local communities. Plus, a look ahead to the year in politics, starting with the latest from Rhode Island’s General Assembly. That and more coming up on The Weekly Catch.
LINKS:
- Feds complete Watch Hill Lighthouse transfer, and public access guarantees aren’t included
- Seven things to know about the new RI General Assembly session
- Edward Bannister, 19th-century Black artist, honored with new statue in Providence
- Tenant group sues landlord, alleging retaliation against organizing efforts
- Bars Over Bars: The Parlour Hiphop Showcase (Saturday)
- Moby-Dick Marathon at the New Bedford Whaling Museum (Jan. 5-7)
GUESTS:
- Alex Nunes, The Public’s Radio South County Bureau Reporter
- Ian Donnis, The Public’s Radio Political Reporter
- State Rep. Lauren Carson (D) of Newport
The Weekly Catch is a production of The Public’s Radio, hosted by Luis Hernandez. Our editor is Mareva Lindo, and our producer is James Baumgartner. Thanks to Maddie Mott for our podcast artwork. The executive producer of The Weekly Catch is Sally Eisele, and our CEO and General Manager is Torey Malatia.
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