by Billy Kepner | Nov 1, 2017 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-14
Providence City Councilman David Salvatore, Ward 14 will introduce two resolutions at Thursday’s City Council meeting to address the ongoing complaints from residents about the behavior and actions of college students living off-campus in Providences’ neighborhoods.
The first resolution is to request that the General Assembly increase the penalties for assaulting a police officer, and to clarify the meaning of “dangerous weapon” to include glass bottles. The second is a resolution that will establish a Special Committee on Off-Campus Housing, Safety and Security.
“Since the beginning of the fall semester there have been at least five different incidents involving college students throwing glass bottles at police officers,” stated Councilman David Salvatore, Ward 14. “These brazen attacks show a total disregard for the men and women of the Providence Police Department who work diligently to keep the people of Providence safe. The City Council has a moral obligation to do all in its power to protect its police officers and city residents, and it’s my hope that these resolutions will help in achieving those goals.”
Councilman Salvatore’s resolution(s) will request that the General Assembly enact laws increasing the penalty for assaulting an officer and establishing that a thrown glass bottle constitutes a “dangerous weapon” under the State’s felony assault statute. Currently when assault or batter is committed with a “dangerous weapon,” it rises to the level of felony assault, but the law is ambiguous as to whether a thrown glass bottle qualifies as a “dangerous weapon.” Assault on a police officer engaged in the performance of their duty is already a felony, but the penalties are far less severe than the penalties associated with assault or battery with a “dangerous weapon.” These requested enhanced penalties are necessary to reflect the serious nature of these crimes and to deter future assaults on officers.
The establishment of the Special Committee on Off-Campus Housing, Safety and Security will study, review, and make recommendations regarding the laws, policies, and procedures relating to off-campus student housing, as well as maintain order and ensuring safety in Providence neighborhoods. The committee will be composed of Councilman Salvatore as chair, Councilman Terrence Hassett, Ward 12 as vice-chair, and Councilwoman Nirva LaFortune, Ward 3. The committee will issue a report with findings and recommendations to the full City Council by May 1, 2018.
by Billy Kepner | Nov 1, 2017 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-5
For the past two years, I have led the City Council’s call for operational and management reforms to the Board of Licenses. An important component of this effort was the “Pine Report” which was commissioned by the City Council to address growing concerns regarding the Board’s ability to provide business owners and the public with consistent licensing procedures that balance the City’s need for a healthy economy and public safety. The comprehensive report called for a number of reforms. The Council and the administration have been working to implement its recommendations.
At this time, I thank Mr. Pichardo for his service and support the Mayor’s request for him to step down as Chairman. New leadership of the Board will make a positive impact on our community of business owners and the residents of Providence.
Board of Licensing reform is part of the Council’s ongoing effort to bolster and grow the City’s economy while protecting the quality of life in our neighborhoods.
— Providence City Council Majority Whip Jo-Ann Ryan, Ward 5
by Billy Kepner | Nov 1, 2017 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-6
I would like to commend Mayor Jorge Elorza for his call for the resignation of Juan Pichardo as Chair of the Providence Board of Licensing. I too believe it’s time for a change in leadership there, and have been vocal about that in my role as City Councilor. I wish Mr. Pichardo luck in any new endeavors and am hopeful for a smooth transition at the Board of Licensing.
–Providence City Councilman Michael Correia, Ward 6
by Billy Kepner | Jul 27, 2017 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-5
Police Authorized to Stop and Seize Illegal Operated ATVs and Dirt Bikes
In recent months, the illegal use of ATVs and dirt bikes on the City of Providence’s streets and in its parks has become a growing concern. The illegal operation of these vehicles threatens the safety and quality of life of Providence residents. On July 20, 2017, the City Council unanimously passed a resolution, sponsored by Council Majority Whip Jo-Ann Ryan, establishing an ATV Task Force and dedicated Tip Line, based on best practices from Baltimore, MD and Washington, DC.
The City Council has worked with the Providence Police Department (PPD) to strengthen existing legislation on ATV and dirt bike enforcement. However, there is a misconception that still exists that PPD has a strict “no-chase policy” regarding ATVs and dirt bikes. No such prohibition exists and Police Officers are authorized to pursue ATVs and dirt bikes, and other illegally operated vehicles according to PPD Policy.
“As with any law enforcement action, officers are trained to use their best judgment in these situations,” said Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5). “Our officers are empowered to pursue, stop, and seize unlawfully operated vehicles.”
Chief of Police, Colonel Hugh T. Clements reiterated that there is not a “no chase” policy for ATVs and dirt bikes, stating, “The Providence Police has a Pursuit Policy, when illegally operated ATV`s flee from the streets into city Parks there is a danger to pursuit. PPD has been utilizing the newly created task force to catch and stop ATV`s being illegally operated on our city streets.” Colonel Clements added, “continued support from city residents notifying the Tip Line of these hot spot areas will play a key role in enforcement”.
To support its legislative work the Council made provisions to set aside $300,000 in the fiscal year 2018 budget for traffic and nuisance control funding. The PPD will utilize a portion of these funds for ATV enforcement. The Council continues to work with the PPD to develop operational support for the Task Force, establish the Tip Line and explore new approaches and enhancements to ATV enforcement.
by Billy Kepner | Jul 13, 2017 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-15, Ward-5, Ward-7
The Providence City Council’s Finance Committee tonight recommended passage of the City’s Capital Improvement Plan, a 5 year infrastructure investment schedule designed to address the needs of city streets, sidewalks, public buildings, parks and recreation centers.
Years one and two of the plan include $48,507,200 worth of infrastructure projects to be funded by various mechanisms including a 45 million dollar infrastructure bond, the city’s general fund, the master lease and the lighting master lease.
“The plan is the result of the Council and the Administration working together for the public good,” said Finance Committee Chairman John Igliozzi. “The proposed plan equitably considers and addresses neighborhood needs and concerns citywide, and I’m happy to see much-needed infrastructure improvements planned to improve the quality of life for Providence residents.”
“The Council and the Administration are jointly concerned about the need for infrastructure investments in the Capital City,” said Acting Council Sabina Matos. “This plan is the result of leadership and diligent efforts to address infrastructure needs both immediately, and over the next 5 years.”
“Now is the prudent time to borrow,” said Majority Whip Joann Ryan (Ward 5). “We have an improved bond rating, we have a positive rainy day fund balance for the first time in years and we have a plan to strategically invest limited resources in every neighborhood. I support this Capital Improvement Bond.”
“By approving a 5 year Capital Improvement Plan, we can be proactive about repairs and maintenance, instead of waiting until things break to fix them,” said Mayor Jorge Elorza. “This comprehensive plan is the product of collaboration between the administration and the Providence City Council as we plan for the long term. With this in place, we are ready to invest in our future.
The plan now goes to the full council for a vote.
