R.I. Gen. Laws § 32-3-2: Establishment of public recreation systems.

The city council of any city or the town council of any town may vote to establish a system of public recreation and may, by ordinance or resolution, vest in the school committee, the board in control of public parks, a board of recreation established as provided for in this chapter, the authority to establish, construct, equip, control, and maintain public playgrounds, athletic fields, swimming pools, bathing places, and other community recreation centers, and to conduct and promote recreation, play, sport, and physical training for which admission or other fees may be charged.