R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-23-12: Representation from coastal communities.

Upon the expiration of a term of a member appointed by the governor, as an appointed or elected official of local government from a coastal municipality as set out in § 46-23-2, the governor shall appoint an appointed or elected official of a coastal municipality which, at the time of the governor’s appointment, has no appointed or ex officio representation on the council.