SENATE RESOLUTION HONORING AND THANKING THE HONORABLE MARTHA BALL FOR HER 50 YEARS OF SERVICE TO THE TOWN OF NEW SHOREHAM
Summary
Senate Resolution S0011 is a ceremonial measure honoring the Honorable Martha Ball for more than 50 years of public service to the Town of New Shoreham (Block Island). The resolution recounts her long record of local government involvement, including service in the Finance Department, as Town Treasurer, on the Zoning Board, as First Warden, and on the Town Council across two extended periods. It also highlights her work on numerous boards, commissions, and committees related to planning, conservation, housing, tourism, utilities, public safety, and historic preservation.
The resolution does not change any state law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its only operative effect is to formally express the Senate’s appreciation and to direct the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Martha Ball. As a result, the bill affects no statutes or regulated parties and functions entirely as a legislative tribute.
Impact
S0011 has no substantive legal impact on Rhode Island law. It is a nonbinding Senate resolution that serves as an official commendation, with the only administrative action being transmission of the resolution to the honoree. No statutes are amended, no rights or obligations are created, and no agencies or private parties are regulated by the measure.
Sentiment
The sentiment around the resolution is strongly positive and unanimous in tone. The bill’s language is highly complimentary, emphasizing Martha Ball’s longevity, institutional knowledge, and broad commitment to New Shoreham. Because the available context includes no recorded opposition, amendments, or committee debate, the measure appears to have been treated as a straightforward honorary resolution with no controversy.
Contention
There are no notable points of contention in the available record. The resolution is purely ceremonial, and the context provided includes no committee transcripts, votes, or objections. Any discussion would likely have centered on recognizing Martha Ball’s extensive service rather than on policy disagreements or legal concerns.