R.I. Gen. Laws § 32-3-9

The town council of any town is hereby authorized to appoint five (5) persons who shall constitute the forest and park commission of that town, to serve for a term of one, two (2), three (3), four (4), and five (5) years, respectively. Annually thereafter, at the meeting held for the purpose of appointments of town officers, any town council shall appoint one member of the commission to replace the member whose term shall next expire and who shall serve for a term of five (5) years and until his or her successor is elected and qualified. In case of vacancy in the commission, the town council shall fill the vacancy forthwith by appointment for the unexpired term.