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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by Council Staff | Dec 15, 2022 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release
December 15, 2022
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
City Council Finishes 2022 Legislative Session
- Approves first steps in a new ProvPort revenue sharing agreement and lease extension
- Passes tax treaty agreements for several city buildings and properties
- Passes Providence Tourism Improvement District
- Honors given to 7 outgoing city councilors, the majority of whom are term-limited
- Results of Democratic City Council Caucus released announcing 2023 council leadership
ProvPort Agreements
Providence, RI – Tonight, after continued negotiation and community engagement, the Providence City Council took the first steps and approved a new 30-year revenue sharing agreement, bond, and lease extension for ProvPort, Inc., an operator in the Port of Providence on the city’s south side. The new agreements are expected to position ProvPort for expansion and growth and allow the operator to attract new green energy industries, like offshore wind. Both the resolution and ordinance passed tonight. However, more legislative action will be needed for complete passage by the 2023 council. The resolution will become effective on the second passage of the ordinance at a later date.
Details of the agreements include:
- Upfront one-time payment to the city of approximately $7 million from bond proceeds
- Increases gross revenue sharing agreement from 5.5% to 9%
- Establishes a sustainability project fund with a minimum of $120,000 a year to support projects throughout the city
- Establishes a community benefit project fund with a minimum of $120,000 a year to support projects throughout the city (amendment specifies $25,000 to be used for Ward 10 projects and the remainder of the funds to be distributed by the Board of Parks Commissioners for parks and recreation infrastructure projects)
- No further expansion of fossil fuel industries in ProvPort by terms of the lease to 2052
“As the Chair of the Finance Committee, this is likely the best tax treaty passed in the city of Providence. The city negotiated to receive more money in this agreement than we would get by taxing the property at its full taxation value,” said Jo-Ann Ryan, Councilwoman (Ward 5). The Port of Providence is a gem with the potential to become a vital economic engine. This agreement lays the financial foundation for the expansion of green energy in the capital city and future port development.”
The ordinance establishing a tax exemption agreement for ProvPort can be found here. The resolution authorizing a lease extension and bond for ProvPort can be viewed here.
Tax Agreements for City Buildings/Property
The Providence City Council tonight approved four tax stabilization agreements with four different LLCs in Providence. The approved agreements are as follows
These tax stabilization agreements will incentivize sustainable, long term business development in the City of Providence.
Providence Tourism Improvement District
Tonight, the Council approved a resolution authorizing the creation of the Providence Tourism Improvement District. In the wake of COVID-related staffing shortages and supply chain concerns, this legislation seeks to boost the tourism industry here in Providence.
All hotels with fifty rooms or more within the district will be assessed 2% of gross short-term room rental revenue. Those funds will be collected by the City and used to support events inside the district such as meetings, conventions, games, and marketing events. In year one, the budget for the district will be around $1.6 million.
Currently, 194 similar tourism districts exist nationwide, with local examples in Newport and Boston.
Investments in Clean Water Projects
Councilors approved measures allowing the city to invest up to $1 million in clean water, stormwater, and sewer infrastructure projects. The ordinance authorizes the development of Total Maximum Daily Load Implementation Plans (TMDLIP). A total maximum daily load is the maximum number of pollutants allowed to enter a body of water. The plans layout actions and timelines to reach specific water quality goals and standards. Clean water projects are targeted for Mashapaug Pond, Roger Williams Park Pond, the Woonasquatucket River, and the West River. Providence has received confirmation from the Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank, qualifying the city for $400,000 in loan forgiveness on a loan of $1 million. The proposal calls for the balance of the loan to be paid by American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds allocated for sewer and stormwater projects.
Excessive False Fire Alarm Fees
Tonight, the Council passed a resolution regarding Ordinance 9-94 “Excessive avoidable false fire alarm fees.” The legislation aims to curb false alarms on home security systems, by assessing fines after multiple offenses. However, recently, the City Council has received multiple complaints from residents regarding exorbitant late fees without prior notice.
“The purpose of the original ordinance is to reduce the unnecessary drain on public safety officials,” said Councilwoman Jo-Ann Ryan (Ward 5), who sponsored the measure. “The failure to provide proper notice undermines the effectiveness and intent of the legislation, by preventing residents from fixing their faulty systems. It is my hope that through outreach and community engagement, we are able to educate the public and stop these unnecessary fines.”
The resolution calls on the administration to review the enforcement of the ordinance, and the department of public safety to coordinate outreach efforts to educate the community.
Recognition of National Pan-Hellenic Council of RI
The National Pan-Hellenic Council of Rhode Island was welcomed to the Council Chambers this evening, celebrating the charter of the first-ever Pan-Hellenic chapter in the State of Rhode Island on December 10th. The National Pan-Hellenic Council was founded at Howard University in 1930 and comprises the ‘Divine-Nine’ historically black sororities and fraternities. With a focus on leadership, economic empowerment, and professional development, the National Pan-Hellenic Council works with its members and local organizations to establish a positive presence on college campuses across the country.
“On December 10th, 2022, the National Pan-Hellenic Council of Rhode Island was chartered, becoming the first state chapter since NPHC was founded on May 10, 1930. As a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Theta Psi Omega Chapter, I was proud to be a part of this historical moment. The Divine Nine fraternities and sororities have been an anchor in our community, and I know firsthand the positive impact they have in our state and on the lives of all people. I am excited about the future of NPHC Rhode Island chapter and the collective work and influence of our state’s D9 fraternities and sororities in our community and commitment to foster service, promote community awareness and action and also help cultivate a new generation of leaders in our state” stated Councilwoman Nirva LaFortune.
Honors for Outgoing Council Members
The Providence City Council honored its outgoing members at the final council meeting of 2022. Friends and family joined the seven outgoing members as they received commemorative plaques honoring their years of service to the City of Providence.
- Council President John Igliozzi has represented Ward 7 since 1997 and has served as Council President since 2021.
- Councilwoman Nirva LaFortune has represented Ward 3 since 2017. She is the first Haitian-American to be elected to the City Council and served as the Vice-Chair of the Special Committee on Education.
- Councilman Nicholas J. Narducci Jr. has represented Ward 4 since 2006. He served as the Senior Deputy Majority Leader and the Chairman of the Committee on Ordinances and the Committee on Claims and Pending Suits.
- Councilman Michael Correia has represented Ward 6 since 2011. He served as the Chairman of the Committee on Public Works and was a member of the Providence Water Supply Board.
- Councilwoman Carmen Castillo has represented Ward 9 since 2012. She served as the Majority Whip and the Chairwoman on the Committee on City Property.
- Councilwoman Kat Kerwin has represented Ward 12 since 2018. She is one of the youngest to have been elected to the City Council and served as a member of the Committee on City Property.
- Councilor David A. Salvatore has represented Ward 14 since 2010. He formerly served as the City Council President from 2017-2019.
The Providence City Council extends its deepest gratitude for the many contributions all seven departing Council members have made to the City over the years.
New Council Leadership
Results of the Democratic City Council Caucus were released, announcing the intentions of caucus members to select key leadership positions for the 2023-2027 Providence City Council. The Caucus chose Ward 8 Councilman James Taylor as Majority Leader, Ward 11 Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris as Deputy Majority Leader, Ward 1 Councilman John Goncalves as Senior Deputy Majority Leader, and Ward 6 Councilman-Elect Miguel Sanchez as Majority Whip. Additionally, the caucus unanimously pledged their votes for Ward 13 Councilor Rachel Miller as the next Council President and Ward 9 Councilman-Elect Juan Pichardo as President Pro Tempore.
“This new, diverse, engaged group of elected leaders offers the opportunity to bring fresh perspectives to the work ahead in moving Providence forward,” said Councilor Rachel Miller. “I am honored to have earned the support of the caucus and look forward to working with every member of the council and with the new administration next term as we work on behalf of our neighbors.” Elections for President and Pro Tempore will take place at the organizational meeting on January 2, 2023.
by Council Staff | Dec 1, 2022 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release, Ward-10
December 1, 2022
PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Parker Gavigan, Director of Communications
pgavigan@providenceri.gov
“Tonight, the council decided to continue the discussion on the ProvPort resolution authorizing a lease extension and bond but will table the ordinance establishing a tax exemption until the next council term, said Councilman Espinal. “The voices and concerns of my neighbors were heard and should be included in this important process as we move forward toward a solution.”
The legislation in front of the council is a proposed 30-year tax exemption agreement and lease extension for ProvPort, Inc., an operator of the Port of Providence on the city’s south side. The ordinance establishing a tax exemption agreement for ProvPort can be found here. The resolution authorizing a lease extension and bond for ProvPort can be found here.
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by Abigail Appel | Dec 1, 2022 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Press Release, Ward-14
“The Ordinance Amending Chapter 13, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Providence, Entitled: “Housing” to add article VII- “Security In Housing Development for the Elderly and Persons with Disabilities” will provide necessary security measures all residents deserve. Although the Council decided to table the legislation, I will continue my commitment to ensure all residents of marginalized communities are safe and protected in their homes. I am disappointed in the Providence Housing Authority’s unwillingness to implement basic security measures that keep elderly and persons with disabilities safe. I look forward to working with the City Solicitor and City Council staff to continue this fight to hold landlords and developers accountable for the safety and wellbeing of their residents,” said Councilor David Salvatore (Ward 14).
