EAST GREENWICH- In October of 2019, the East Greenwich Town Council passed an ordinance banning the use of plastic bags in town. âThe purpose of this article is to improve the environment in East Greenwich and the health, safety, and welfare of its residents by reducing the number of plastic and paper bags being used and by encouraging the use of reusable carryout bags and banning the use of plastic bags for retail checkout of goods. Retail Establishments are encouraged to make reusable carryout bags available for sale,â the purpose of the ordinance stated. When the pandemic hit its stride, the town council granted executive powers to Town Manager Andy Nota, under declaration of the State of Emergency.