Rhode Island's Question 5 asks voters to authorize $55 million in environmental bonds

Rhode Island voters will decide Nov. 3 whether to authorize $55 million in borrowing for environmental and recreation projects, with $25 million directed to the Resilient Rhody Infrastructure Fund.

Question 5, the Green Economy Bonds proposal, would also provide $12 million for state beach, park and campground facilities and $7 million for Narragansett Bay watershed restoration.

The remaining allocations are $3 million each for cleanup of former industrial sites, farmland preservation and open space; and $1 million each for local recreation and marine infrastructure.

The state voter handbook estimates total principal and interest costs of $88,267,500, including $33,267,500 in interest. That estimate assumes a 5% interest rate and repayment over 20 years. Actual borrowing costs can differ.

A vote to approve would authorize the state to issue the bonds. A vote to reject would oppose that borrowing. General obligation bonds are debt backed by the state, rather than money already available to spend.

Early voting runs Oct. 14 through Nov. 2. Voters can check their local early voting site and sample ballot through the state's voter information center.