by Council Staff | Jan 13, 2023 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release
January 13, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
Joint Statement from Council President Rachel Miller and Chief Judge of the Municipal Court, Frank Caprio, on his Retirement
Chief Judge has offered to volunteer with the court
Providence, RI – City Council President Rachel Miller has accepted the decision of Chief Judge of the Municipal Court, Frank Caprio, to retire after nearly 40 exemplary years on the bench.
“Judge Caprio has my utmost respect for a lifetime of public service to our city,” said President Miller. “I intend to support the nomination of Judge Caprio before the entire City Council to become Chief Judge Emeritus of the Providence Municipal Court.”
“The City of Providence welcomed my immigrant father 120 years ago and provided the opportunity to him and countless other immigrants to flourish in America,” said Chief Judge Caprio. “Providence remains the beacon of hope and opportunity to waves of people from around the world seeking the American Dream. The City is fortunate to have the current City Council, led by Council President Miller from my beloved 13th Ward, Majority Leader Taylor, and Mayor Smiley.
“As I reflect on my 38 years as a Judge, I hope I have lived up to the example of all those that served before me, either on the bench, or in City Government, to make Providence a city that welcomes all, and enriches the lives of every person that chooses our great city to be their home.
“On a personal note, I would like to thank my dear friend, former Mayor Joe Paolino, who was a driving force behind being elected my first term as a judge. Additionally, a big thank you to the talented team of court personnel for their dedicated service. And, of course, the part that I enjoyed the most, which is interacting with the wonderful mosaic of residents and visitors to our city. I look forward to the next chapter in my career and to continue enjoying the blessings of good health.”
Judicial elections and, ultimately, the leadership of the Municipal Court will be put before the entire City Council next Thursday, January 19.
The Council President has no further comment at this time.
by Council Staff | Jan 12, 2023 | Add Council Logo, Ward-11, Ward-8
Providence, RI- Members of the Providence City Council held two committee meetings tonight to elect the chairs of the Committees on Urban Redevelopment Renewal and Planning and Rules.
Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11) was elected to serve as the Chairwoman of the Committee on Urban Redevelopment Renewal and Planning, which oversees the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) budget, street name changes, and ceremonial designations.
“I am honored to be leading this diverse and dynamic group of councilors. Improving the quality of life for the residents of the inner city has always been my passion, and I’m thrilled to bring much-needed funding and projects to the neighborhoods that need it most,” said Councilwoman Harris.
Majority Leader James Taylor (Ward 8) was elected to serve as the Chairman of the Rules Committee, which oversees the updating of the City Council guidelines.
“Maintaining a set of clear standards sets the tone for the entire city council term. I look forward to reviewing our current guidelines and working with my fellow committee members to modernize our rulebook and implement any necessary changes,” said Councilman Taylor.
by Council Staff | Jan 11, 2023 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release, Ward-2
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
Providence, RI – During the first 2023 meeting of the Finance Committee Tuesday night, members elected Councilwoman Helen Anthony (Ward 2) as the new chair of the important fiscal committee. The finance committee acts as the council’s financial watchdog and is responsible for a careful review of the city’s annual budget.
“I am honored to lead the Finance Committee on behalf of the residents of Providence. There is nothing more important to our future and the future of the next generations than careful and transparent financial planning,” said Councilwoman Anthony. “I look forward to working in partnership with my council colleagues, the mayor and his team, municipal leadership, residents, and stakeholders to steward our $568 million budget with fairness and to increase opportunities for the public to understand and engage with our budgeting process.”
Council President Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9) was elected vice-chair of the committee, Majority Leader James Taylor (Ward 8), Councilor Sue Anderbois (Ward 3), and Council Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6) also serve on the committee.
“I am elated that Councilwoman Anthony has stepped up to lead the Finance Committee,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13). “The Committee serves a vital role within our council and the city of Providence, overseeing the finite details of all financial matters. We rely on the committee’s guidance, and I am confident Helen will serve the residents of Providence with honor and respect.”
School Board
The committee also began the vetting process of Mayor Brett Smiley’s school board appointees, which included Toni Akin, George Matouk, Carolina Roberts-Santana, and Erlin Rogel. The committee approved all appointees. To review the full agenda, click here.
Concejal Helen Anthony Elegida Presidenta Del Comité De Finanzas
Providence, RI –Durante la primera reunión de 2023 del Comité de Finanzas el martes por la noche, los miembros eligieron a la concejal Helen Anthony (Distrito 2) como la nueva presidenta del importante comité fiscal. El comité de finanzas actúa como el organismo de control financiero del consejo y es responsable de una revisión cuidadosa del presupuesto anual de la ciudad.
“A medida que comenzamos el nuevo año con nuestra primera reunión, el Concejo Municipal de Providence y sus comités seleccionados ahora se ponen a trabajar en serio para todos nuestros vecinos”, dijo la presidenta del Concejo Miller. “Nuestro equipo del consejo tiene experiencia y energía para el próximo año. Espero poder ayudar a liderar una coalición amplia y diversa de servidores públicos enfocados en las escuelas, solucionar nuestra crisis de vivienda y garantizar que el gobierno sea transparente y accesible para nuestros residentes”.
El presidente del Consejo Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Distrito 9) fue elegido vicepresidente del comité. El líder de la mayoría James Taylor (distrito 8), la concejal Sue Anderbois (distrito 3) y el líder del consejo Miguel Sánchez (distrito 6) también forman parte del comité.
“Estoy encantada de que la concejala Anthony haya dado un paso al frente para dirigir el Comité de Finanzas”, dijo la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller (Distrito 13). “El Comité cumple un papel vital dentro de nuestro consejo y la ciudad de Providence, supervisando los detalles finitos de todos los asuntos financieros. Confiamos en la orientación del comité y confío en que Helen servirá a los residentes de Providence con honor y respeto”.
Consejo Escolar
El comité también comenzó el proceso de investigación de antecedentes de las personas designadas por la junta escolar del alcalde Brett Smiley, incluidos Toni Akin, George Matouk, Carolina Roberts-Santana y Erlin Rogel. El comité aprobó a todos los designados. Para revisar la agenda completa, haga clic aquí.
by Council Staff | Jan 5, 2023 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release
January 5, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
Providence, RI – Tonight, the Providence City Council began its 2023 legislative session with newly elected President Rachel Miller (Ward 13) presiding. “As we begin the new year with our first meeting, the Providence City Council and its selected committees now get to work in earnest for all our neighbors,” said Council President Miller. “Our council team, in coordination with experienced staff, is energized for the year ahead. I look forward to helping lead a broad and diverse coalition of public servants focused on schools, fixing our housing crisis, and ensuring that government is transparent and accessible for our residents.”
City Treasurer
Councilors unanimously elected James Lombardi III as Providence City Treasurer for a four-year term. Lombardi is an attorney and certified public accountant. Lombardi was most recently the city’s treasurer for the past 12 years. Prior to that, he was the city’s internal auditor for 12 years. Lombardi has a vast amount of experience in both financial and governmental operations. During his tenure, he has also served as a senior advisor and chief of staff to the city council.
Internal Auditor
Councilors also unanimously elected Gina Costa for a four-year term as the city’s Internal Auditor. Costa has 22 years of service to Providence, most recently serving as internal auditor. She also served 10 years in the administrative branch focusing on public safety finance, and 12 years in the internal auditor’s office. Costa was born and raised in the city and is an alum of Classical High School. The City Charter provides that the city’s internal auditor shall have access to the books and records of all offices, departments, and other agencies of the city.
Committee Appointments
Councilors approved President Miller’s appointments for Standing committees, Rules Committee, and the Special Committee on State Legislative Affairs. Chairpersons will be elected by committee members when those committees convene.
| Committee on Finance
Councilwoman Helen D. Anthony
Councilman James E. Taylor
Councilor Juan M. Pichardo
Councilor Sue R. Anderbois
Councilor Miguel A. Sanchez |
Committee on City Public Works
Councilman Oscar O. Vargas
Councilor Miguel A. Sanchez
Councilor Justin M. Roias
Councilman Pedro J. Espinal
Councilwoman Ana S. Vargas
|
Committee on Ordinances
Councilman Pedro J. Espinal
Councilman Oscar O. Vargas
Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris
Councilor Justin M. Roias
Councilwoman Shelley T. Peterson
|
Committee on Rules
Councilman James E. Taylor
Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris
Councilwoman Helen D. Anthony
Councilor Juan M. Pichardo
Councilor Miguel A. Sanchez
|
| Committee on City Property
Councilman John Goncalves
Councilor Susan R. Anderbois
Councilman Pedro J. Espinal
Councilwoman Althea A. Graves
Councilwoman Shelley T. Peterson
|
Committee on State Legislative Affairs
Councilman John Goncalves
Councilor Justin M. Roias
Councilwoman Shelley T. Peterson
Councilwoman Ana S. Vargas
Councilwoman Althea A. Graves
|
Committee on Urban Redevelopment Renewal and Planning
Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris
Councilor Juan M. Pichardo
Councilman John Goncalves
Councilwoman Ana S. Vargas
Councilwoman Althea Graves
|
Committee on Claims and Pending Suits
Councilman John Goncalves
Councilor Juan M. Pichardo
Councilman Pedro J. Espinal
Councilwoman Shelley T. Peterson
Councilwoman Helen D. Anthony
|
Elections of Councilmembers to Boards and Agencies for 2023-2027
Providence Housing Authority – Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11) and Councilman Justin Roias (Ward 4)
Providence Redevelopment Agency – Councilman Pedro Espinal (Ward 10) and Deputy Majority Leader Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11)
Water Supply Board – Councilman Oscar Vargas (Ward 15) and Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9)
Board of Parks Commissioners – Pro Tempore Juan Pichardo (Ward 9) and Councilwoman Sue Anderbois (Ward 3)
Recreational Advisory Board – Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6) and Councilwoman Ana Vargas (Ward 7)
Appointments of Providence School Board Members
Councilors referred Mayor Brett Smiley’s Providence School Board appointees to the committee on finance.
- Toni Akin
- George Matouk
- Carolina Roberts-Santana
- Erlin Rogel
The full agenda can be viewed here.
by Council Staff | Jan 2, 2023 | Add Council Logo, Press Release
January 2, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
Council President, Pro Tempore, and City Clerk Elected,
Chief of Staff Announced
Providence, RI – Today, 15 members of the 2023-2027 Providence City Council were sworn in at city hall during an official ceremony of the city’s legislative body. Eight councilors are returning to the Council and seven are new.
Ward 1 – John Goncalves (Senior Deputy Majority Leader)
Ward 2 – Helen Anthony
Ward 3 – Susan Anderbois
Ward 4 – Justin Roias
Ward 5 – Jo-Ann Ryan
Ward 6 – Miguel Sanchez (Whip)
Ward 7 – Ana Vargas
Ward 8 – James Taylor (Majority Leader)
Ward 9 – Juan Pichardo (Pro Tempore)
Ward 10 – Pedro Espinal
Ward 11 – Mary Kay Harris (Deputy Majority Leader)
Ward 12 – Althea Graves
Ward 13 – Rachel Miller (President)
Ward 14 – Shelley Peterson
Ward 15 – Oscar Vargas
Council President
Councilor Rachel Miller (Ward 13) was unanimously elected President of the Providence City Council. President Miller has represented Federal Hill and part of the West End since 2018, and now also represents the Valley District. Miller works as a communication director for Building Futures, a community nonprofit. Council President Miller’s election is historic, as she is the first leader of the city council from the LGBTQ+ community.
“For the first time, a majority of councilmembers are people of color, and for the second time, women make up a majority on the council,” said Council President Miller. “We are the youngest council in many years – if not ever. And for the first time, Providence has elected an open member of the LGBTQ community as President of this Council. As a queer woman, that is an honor that I do not take lightly. I want to thank each of you for your confidence in my leadership as we chart this new path for our city…
We have an opportunity to lead collaboratively with one another and with residents & businesses in our neighborhoods, to let differences in opinion strengthen our decisions and to be a beacon of integrity and transparency in our decision-making. And we have big decisions coming our way – from stewarding the city’s next 10-year comprehensive plan for land-use and zoning to shepherding the return of our public schools to local control, to passing the city budget annually and ensuring that budget reflects our values and priorities…
Let’s engage in good faith, let’s recognize that our shared love for our city unites us, and let’s do all we can to work together to move Providence forward.”
To learn more about Council President Miller, click here.
Pro Tempore
Councilman Juan Pichardo (Ward 9) was unanimously elected Pro Tempore of the City Council. Pichardo was recently elected in November and has been a resident of Providence for 43 years. Pro Tempore Pichardo served as a Rhode Island State Senator for 14 years and is a 22-year veteran of the U.S. Airforce/National Guard, retiring at the rank of Master Sergeant. Pro Tempore Pichardo and his wife Janet have three children and two granddaughters.
“I am honored to serve my constituents in the Providence City Council and grateful to my council colleagues for electing me to a leadership role,” said Pro Tempore Pichardo. “I plan to listen and work together with my colleagues. I bring my legislative and life experiences to the council and am passionate about making a difference not only in my neighborhood but across our great city.”
Earlier, the Council’s Democratic City Caucus chose Councilman James Taylor (Ward 8) as Majority Leader, Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris (Ward 11) as Deputy Majority Leader, Councilman John Goncalves (Ward 1) as Senior Deputy Majority Leader, and Councilman Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6) as Majority Whip.
City Clerk
Councilors also unanimously elected Tina Mastroianni as City Clerk for a four-year term. Mastroianni has been a city employee for 27 years, most recently serving as Acting City Clerk since November 2021. Prior to that, Mastroianni was First Deputy Clerk, a stenographic report, and a crossing guard.
Chief of Staff
Council President Miller announced the selection of Sean Bouchard as the Council’s Chief of Staff. Bouchard has been a licensed attorney in the State of Rhode Island since 2015, with main areas of focus on real estate, land-use, and zoning. He has served as the Director of Policy and Research for the City Council since 2019.
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