R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-23-20.2: Clerk.

The commissioner of coastal resources or his or her designee shall serve as clerk to the hearing officers. The clerk shall have general charge of the office, keep a full record of proceedings, file and preserve all documents and papers, prepare such papers and notices as may be required, and perform such other duties as required. The commissioner shall have the power to issue subpoenas for witnesses and documents and to administer oaths in all cases before any hearing officer or pertaining to the duties of his or her office.