R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-3-3
Whereas, there is still remaining within several of the towns of this state, lands belonging to the original proprietors of the land, lying common or undivided, for the better government of the proprietors, the management of their prudential affairs, the more just and equal division of the lands and the allotments and preservation of the boundaries of the lands; it shall be lawful for the proprietors of the several towns within this state, being convened by warrant specifying the occasion for convening, under the hand and seal of a justice of the peace of the town, to choose a clerk, a surveyor or surveyors, and such other officers as they shall judge necessary for the orderly carrying on and management of their affairs, and in like manner to proceed from time to time as shall be necessary.
R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-3-3