by Billy Kepner | Apr 1, 2020 | Uncategorized
If you are a business owner you have likely heard about the Small Business Paycheck Protection Program. Here you will find an overview of the program, a fact sheet about the program, and the application of the program provided to the City Council by Bank Newport. They will be able to answer any questions you may have.
by Billy Kepner | Mar 30, 2020 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-8
Today, The Board of Contract and Supply approved an additional $5 Million for new fire apparatus. This is great news for the hardworking men and women of the Providence Fire Department.
I would like to thank Chairman John J. Igliozzi (Ward 7) for his leadership of the Council’s Committee on Finance, and my fellow members of the Committee, for acting swiftly after we heard from Derek Silva, President of the Providence Firefighters Union for the need to replace much of their aging fleet.
The Committee quickly brought back the City’s Master Lease Agreement and allocated the necessary funds for these vital pieces of equipment. I am glad to know that we are moving in the right direction to give them the tools they need to do the job safely and confidently.
by Billy Kepner | Mar 28, 2020 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-5
The novel COVID-19 pandemic is impacting every aspect of our lives. To protect ourselves and our families it is important that we follow the guidance of our Governor Gina Raimondo and our public health officials. Stay home, practice social and physical distancing, wash your hands and regularly clean surfaces. With all of us being diligent in maintaining these best practices, Rhode Island will help flatten the curve.
Governor Raimondo and the Rhode Island Health Department announced today that approximately 50 State public health officials and Rhode Island Army National Guard members will be on-site at Rhode Island College conducting drive-thru COVID-19 testing.
Testing will take place between the hours of 9 AM and 3 PM every day until further notice. Testing will be available by appointment only, and only after a referral from a physician. The testing will be done with the individual remaining in their vehicle. If you do not have an appointment, you will not receive a test.
Once an appointment is confirmed through the Rhode Island Department of Health, individuals will be directed to the swabbing site. The National Guard, the Rhode Island Department of Health, and the Rhode Island Emergency Agency do not anticipate any noticeable increase in neighborhood traffic, nor do they anticipate any long lines. They are instructing individuals to use main roads only, and individuals are instructed to not leave their vehicles.
You can find details and more information from Rhode Island College President Frank D. Sánchez here: COVID-19 Testing Site
I have full faith in our National Guard, and the Rhode Island Department of Health to perform this important function in our neighborhood all while maintaining strict adherence to public safety. The more testing we do, the more we know about the virus, and how to stop it.
In this time of fear and uncertainty, we are all reminded of the fragility of life. And, we are newly aware of how much we need each other just as we are being warned to distance ourselves.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to Governor Raimondo for her extraordinary leadership during these unprecedented times.
Let’s stay strong. Stay at home. For important updates follow the City Council COVID-19 web page. I am here if you need anything.
We will get through this together.
Jo-Ann Ryan, Majority Leader
Providence City Council
Councilwoman – Ward 5
by Billy Kepner | Mar 26, 2020 | Council News, Press Release
Chief Judge Frank Caprio announced today that the Providence Municipal Courts will tentatively reopen on Monday, April 20, 2020.
If you have a trial date to appear before the Municipal Court during the closure, you will receive a new summons in the coming days.
If you have a fine to pay you can do so online. The Public Safety Complex remains closed due to COVID-19 until further notice.
During this closure, City Council President Sabina Matos has instructed the Courts to stop all “Booting” of vehicles in providence, to stop all collections proceedings, and stop all doubling and tripling of fines until further notice. The Municipal Courts fall under the purview of the City Council.
For more information on the Municipal Courts or to pay your fines online, visit them at http://www.providenceri.gov/municipal-court/
by Billy Kepner | Mar 25, 2020 | Ward-5
Dear Neighbors,
We are living in uncertain times, and the spread of COVID-19 has many of us worried. It’s been especially troubling for our younger residents who might not quite understand why their world changed so quickly.
As a parent, I can understand how stressful this all might be. I wanted you to know that I’m thinking of you and that my office is working and fully operational, and able to assist you with any needs.
You can call the Council Office at 401-521-7477 or via email at council@providenceri.gov.
Please visit the City Council’s COVID-19 Resource Guide below. The site provides the latest updates, meal sites, and other important information.
Please stay safe, take care of one another, and remember to check in on our neighbors who may need help.
Sincerely,
Jo-Ann Ryan, Majority Leader
