R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-3-13
The legislative body may apportion and assess the part upon the lands and buildings in the municipality which, in its judgment, are especially benefited thereby, whether they abut on the erosion control system or not, and upon the owners of the lands and buildings, subject to the right of appeal. The assessment may include a proportionate share of any expenses incurred in the construction of any erosion control system, such as legal fees, service expenses, interest, and publication costs, and related incidental expenses. The legislative body may divide the total territory to be benefited in each section separately. In assessing benefits against the property in any section, the legislative body may add to the cost of the part of the erosion control system located in the section, a proportionate share of the cost of any part of the system located outside the section which is useful for the operation or effectiveness of that part of the system within the section, and of any of the other items of cost or expenses above enumerated.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-3-13