by Council Staff | Jan 8, 2025 | Add Council Logo, Council News
Tuesday, January 7, 2024
Councilors Sanchez and Roias are Calling for a Public Health State of Emergency
As frigid temperatures sweep across Rhode Island, Providence City Councilors Justin Roias and Miguel Sanchez will open the City Council Chamber tonight at 7 pm to host a community gathering space away from the cold. Councilors Sanchez and Roias have worked closely with local homelessness service providers to ensure trained volunteers will be on-hand throughout the night, continuing to provide the space for as long as residents need it. Those who come by will be offered transportation and assistance accessing shelter beds, should they be available.
In the past year alone, 54 unhoused residents have lost their lives living outside. Councilors Sanchez and Roias are taking this action to help save lives.
“As a polar vortex grips Providence, many of our unhoused neighbors are being forced to sleep outside in dangerous temperatures,” said Councilor Justin Roias (Ward 4). “With only two 24/7 emergency shelters open, the response from the mayor and governor has been woefully inadequate. This failure has left us no choice but to take the unprecedented step of opening the City Council chambers as a community gathering space where folks are able to stay warm during freezing temperatures.”
“As local elected leaders, we cannot allow our neighbors to freeze to death on our streets,” said Councilor Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6). “No one in our city should endure these deadly conditions because of a failure of government to protect its people. We call on the mayor and governor to immediately expand emergency shelter capacity and commit to long-term solutions to address homelessness in our community. This is a preventable crisis, and every moment of inaction puts lives at risk. We’re calling on Governor McKee to declare a Public Health Emergency by executive order immediately.”
Unhoused Rhode Islanders are in crisis. The recently released 2024 Point in Time Count, compiled by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, reports that Rhode Island has the second highest rate of chronic homelessness in the nation.
Councilors Roias and Sanchez are demanding life-saving action from the state, calling on Governor Dan McKee to declare homelessness a state of emergency for public health and unlock essential resources for short- and long-term relief and care for unhoused individuals.
In lieu of state action, Providence City Councilors are committed to doing what they can to support unhoused community through both direct action and compassionate, housing first policy.
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by Council Staff | Dec 29, 2024 | Blog
Across Providence, dozens of community gardens have offered residents more than just a place to grow food. Putting down roots in South Providence in 1981 with a single community garden, Southside Community Land Trust (SCLT) has grown into a vibrant network of 58 gardens across Rhode Island. In 2023, they organized programs benefitting over 23,000 people and grew over 67,000 pounds of food that nourished our neighbors. But their impact cannot be measured with numbers alone.
Council members past and present have appreciated firsthand how SCLT has transformed neglected lots into thriving gardens that are now fixtures of our neighborhoods. Not only do these gardens offer culturally familiar food to all who need it, they are hands-on learning opportunities for young people and a self-sustaining solution to flooding issues. From celebrating their thirty years of service to helping them secure a 20-year lease of a city-owned lot, the Council has been a long-time supporter of SCLT.
“It’s been a godsend to have help from Council members to make use of underutilized land in Providence,” said Rochelle Lee, President of the Board of Directors of SCLT. “The City Council has been our partner since day one, supporting our mission to give folks healthy food, garden access, and job training at no cost.”
Under the leadership of Council President Rachel Miller, the Council has worked to strengthen its relationship with SCLT. In the city’s 2023 budget, the Council approved $45,000 of federal funds to improve gardens located on Potters Avenue with fences, irrigation systems, and paths. Later in 2023, SCLT finalized work on 404 Broad Street—a building complex where they sell produce to local business and lease retail space to restaurants. In early 2024, Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris worked with Senator Tiara Mack and Representative Jose Batista to ensure that this new development could operate with tax exempt status. Meanwhile, Councilor Miguel Sanchez advocates to extend SCLT’s leases of six city-owned lots on Manton Avenue by ten years.
“Southside Community Land Trust is a shining example of community-driven organizing that makes Providence a better place to live,” said Councilwoman Mary Kay Harris. “Children, adults, and elders all play their parts to help run these community gardens and grow the food that is needed in our communities.”
As we look forward to another year of service to the people of Providence, the Council will continue to prioritize easy access to basic needs, from healthy food to affordable housing, environmental justice to quality education for our young people.
by Council Staff | Dec 29, 2024 | Add Council Logo, Council News, Ward-10, Ward-13
On Friday, a tank with 3,000 gallons of corn oil caught fire at the Port of Providence. In response, Council President Rachel Miller and Majority Leader Pedro Espinal released the following statement:
“We’re grateful to the firefighters from Providence, East Providence, Cranston, Johnston, Cumberland, and North Smithfield whose heroic efforts contained yet another massive blaze at the Port of Providence. Without their swift action, this fire could have had catastrophic consequences for the health and safety of South Providence residents. This latest incident underscores the ongoing environmental and public health risks posed by activity at the port. We cannot afford to grow numb to these repeated disasters. We need companies operating at the port to take immediate action to reduce hazardous and polluting operations. And we need government partners to work with us to ban dirty and reckless uses at the port.
Last week, the city scored a significant legal victory against Sea 3, a fossil fuel company seeking to irresponsibly expand their liquid petroleum gas delivery and storage. In coming months, Providence City Council and the City Plan Commission will align the city’s zoning ordinance with the recently adopted Comprehensive Plan—which put the Port of Providence on a new path away from heavy polluters and toward environmental justice. We don’t need more studies or delays; we need action. 2024 was a year of environmental disasters at the port. Let’s make 2025 the year we put an end to them.”
by Council Staff | Dec 23, 2024 | Council News
In a decisive win for South Providence residents, the Rhode Island Superior Court has upheld the city’s zoning ordinance as amended in 2022. The ordinance bans the bulk storage of liquid propane gas (LPG) anywhere in the city of Providence, part of the city’s commitment to environmental justice.
“This decision is a major victory for South Providence,” said City Council Majority Leader Pedro Espinal, who represents the neighborhood where the facility is located. “For generations, the community I call home has endured massive amounts of pollution and devastating health outcomes as a result. Enough is enough. This decision makes clear to Sea 3: no more putting lives at risk just to increase your profits. I am very grateful to the city’s legal team and the activists that organized to build pressure. There is still much more we must do to turn the port into a clean, modern driver of economic development, but today we celebrate this win for our community.”
In 2021, fossil fuel company Sea 3 Providence LLC attempted to fast-track a plan to expand their facility, proposing six massive LPG storage tanks and a new rail delivery system, and drawing fierce opposition from environmentalists and South Providence residents. In 2021 and 2022, Providence City Council took significant steps to stop this proposed expansion. At the forefront of this effort, Majority Leader Espinal (then serving as President Pro Tempore) introduced a resolution calling on the Rhode Island Energy Facility Sitting Board (EFSB) to deny Sea 3’s proposed expansion plan. Additionally, Espinal championed and successfully passed an amendment to the city’s zoning ordinance, effectively banning the establishment of any new bulk LPG storage facilities in Providence.
Sea 3 challenged the amended ordinance in court, claiming it was inconsistent with the city’s 2014 Comprehensive Plan. Last Thursday, December 19, the Superior Court rejected this argument and upheld the ordinance.
Now, any expansion by Sea 3 will be confined to their original plan, which was approved by the City Plan Commission in 2022, and still will require approvals from city and state agencies, including the Energy Facilities Sitting Board. Any changes recommended during this process could halt Sea 3’s expansion entirely.
The recently signed 2024 Comprehensive Plan includes Council-sponsored strengthened protections for the Port of Providence and South Side residents. The plan prohibits power plants dependent on fossil fuel combustion, noxious or toxic chemical manufacturing, and ethylene oxide manufacturing and storage in M2 and W3 zones. The plan paves the way for the city to ban future uses that it “determines go against the public interest of (a) public health and quality of life in near-industry neighborhoods or (b) realizing fossil fuel emissions reduction goals in response to climate change.” The specific uses are currently under discussion by city officials and will be included in the upcoming zoning ordinance. As the City Council reviews and proposes amendments to the zoning ordinance, environmental justice at the port will be prioritized.
Read the Superior Court’s decision HERE.
by Council Staff | Dec 5, 2024 | Council News
Tonight, Providence City Council held the final scheduled meeting of the calendar year. Councilors granted final passage to three ordinances that reallocate American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to meet the city’s school funding obligations and prevent cuts to essential services that students rely on. Earlier this week, Council granted first passage to the ordinances at a special meeting to ensure the December 31 ARPA allocation deadline is met and prevent the return of funds to the U.S. Treasury.
“Tonight, the Council has reallocated federal funding to support our schools and ensure that every American Rescue Plan dollar is used by the December 31 deadline,” said Committee on Finance Chairwoman Helen Anthony (Ward 2). “This Council has made our schools a top priority, and tonight’s vote is one more step toward the schools our students, teachers, and families deserve.”
Additional Highlights
- Council granted final passage to a tax stabilization agreement for a new adaptive reuse housing development at 265 Manton Ave. The development will involve the rehabilitation of a former church building and the construction of a solar energy canopy over the property’s parking lot. Twenty percent of the project’s units will be affordable.
- Council granted final passage to an ordinance that modifies zoning regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) to comply with state law. Changes include the adoption of the state’s ADU definitions, spatial requirements, and parking minimum exceptions.
- Council passed a resolution introduced by Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6) that declares support for the unionization efforts of medical residents at Brown University Health and Care New England.
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El Concejo Municipal Aloja su Última Reunión del Año Calendario y Vota Sobre las Reasignaciones del ARPA
Esta noche, el Concejo Municipal de la Ciudad de Providence alojó la última reunión programada del año calendario. Los concejales aprobaron finalmente tres ordenanzas que reasignan los fondos de la Ley del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (ARPA, por sus siglas en inglés) para cumplir con las obligaciones de financiación escolar de la ciudad y evitar recortes a los servicios esenciales de los que dependen los estudiantes. A principios de esta semana, el Concejo aprobó por primera vez las ordenanzas en una reunión especial para garantizar que se cumpla la fecha límite de asignación de ARPA del 31 de diciembre y evitar la devolución de fondos al Tesoro de los EE. UU.
“Esta noche, el Concejo ha reasignado fondos federales para apoyar a nuestras escuelas y garantizar que cada dólar del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense se utilice antes de la fecha límite del 31 de diciembre”, dijo la presidenta del Comité de Finanzas, Helen Anthony (distrito 2). “Este Concejo ha hecho de nuestras escuelas una prioridad máxima, y la votación de esta noche es un paso más hacia las escuelas que nuestros estudiantes, maestros y familias merecen.”
Aspectos Destacados Adicionales
- El Concejo concedió la aprobación final a un acuerdo de estabilización fiscal para nuevas unidades de vivienda adaptadas para reutilización en 265 Manton Ave. El proyecto implicará la rehabilitación de un antiguo edificio de iglesia y la construcción de un dosel de energía solar sobre el estacionamiento de la propiedad. El veinte por ciento de las unidades del proyecto serán asequibles.
- El Concejo concedió la aprobación final a una ordenanza que modifica las normas de zonificación para las unidades de vivienda auxiliares (ADU) para cumplir con la ley estatal. Los cambios incluyen la adopción de las definiciones de ADU del estado, los requisitos espaciales y las excepciones mínimas de estacionamiento.
- El Consejo aprobó una resolución presentada por el líder de la mayoría Miguel Sánchez (Distrito 6) que declara el apoyo a los esfuerzos de sindicalización de los residentes médicos en Brown University Health y Care New England.
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by Council Staff | Nov 21, 2024 | Council News
Providence, RI – At tonight’s City Council meeting, Councilors voted to officially adopt the Comprehensive Plan. The once-a-decade urban planning document has been developed and vetted over a two-year period, first by the Department of Planning and Development and then by Council. The process has included community meetings across all 15 wards, five public hearings held by Council Committee on Ordinances, and over 200 letters of testimony from residents.
The plan focuses on sustainable growth and development, with a focus on housing, climate, and transportation. In October, Council approved transformative amendments to support inclusionary zoning, reduce or eliminate outdated parking minimums, restrict polluting industries near the Providence Port, prohibit new gas station development on land tenable for housing, and strengthen commitments to climate action and addressing homelessness.
An upcoming Zoning Ordinance will enact many provisions outlined in the plan.
“This Comprehensive Plan represents a historic commitment to the people of Providence,” said Council President Rachel Miller (Ward 13). “Shaped by extensive community input, it’s a bold vision that puts working families first, ensuring that as we grow, we grow together. The plan addresses urgent challenges from housing affordability to climate justice, laying the foundation for a stronger, more equitable city for all who call Providence home. I’m proud of the collaboration that made this possible and ready for the work ahead to bring this vision to life.”
“This plan is a testament to the power of public engagement,” said Majority Leader Pedro Espinal (Ward 10). “Through public hearings and ongoing dialogue with residents from all walks of life, we’ve crafted a forward-thinking blueprint that speaks to the needs of our communities. With this plan, the city can grow in a way that lifts working people up, rather than leaving them behind. As Chair of the Committee on Ordinances, it was an honor to help guide this process through final passage today.”
Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez Introduces Ordinance Prohibiting Fines for Public Camping
An ordinance introduced tonight by Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez (Ward 6) would prohibit the fining of individuals who sleep or camp on public property. This ordinance was crafted as a response to the 2024 Supreme Court decision on City of Grants Pass v. Johnson that allows municipal criminalization of homelessness, which the Council condemned via resolution earlier this year. In recent months, nearby cities including Cranston, RI and Fall River, MA have taken a punitive approach to addressing homelessness, specifically outlawing camping on public property. This ordinance rejects punitive approaches and emphasizes the importance of compassionate, housing-first solutions.
“You can’t fine your way out of homelessness,” said Majority Whip Miguel Sanchez. “Penalizing people for being unhoused is cruel, unproductive, and doesn’t address the real issue: the lack of affordable housing and good-paying jobs. This ordinance sends a clear message – the city of Providence will choose dignity, compassion, and real solutions over punishment.”
The ordinance was referred to the Special Committee on Health, Opportunity, Prosperity, and Education.
Additional Highlights
President Pro Tempore Juan M. Pichardo (Ward 9) introduced a resolution establishing an honorary designation along Laura Street as “Algonquin Way” in collaboration with the Rhode Island Indian Council. The honorary designation recognizes the cultural significance of The Algonquin House, which has provided community, economic, and social support for Native American residents for nearly 30 years. The resolution was referred to the Committee on Urban Redevelopment, Renewal, and Planning.
Deputy Majority Whip Sue AnderBois (Ward 3) introduced an ordinance to phase out gas-powered leaf blowers within city limits due to public health risks, environmental impacts, and high levels of noise. The ordinance seeks to prohibit use of gas-powered leaf blowers by city contractors by 2028 and by 2033 for the general public. The ordinance was referred to the Special Committee on Environment & Resiliency where it will receive further discussion.
Watch the full Council meeting HERE.
El Concejo Adopta Oficialmente al Plan Comprehensivo
Providence, RI – En la reunión del Concejo Municipal de esta noche, los concejales votaron para adoptar oficialmente el Plan Comprehensivo. Este documento de planificación urbana, que se actualiza una vez por década, ha sido desarrollado y revisado durante un período de dos años, primero por el Departamento de Planificación y Desarrollo y luego por el Concejo. El proceso incluyó reuniones comunitarias en los 15 barrios, cinco audiencias públicas celebradas por el Comité de Ordenanzas del Concejo y más de 200 cartas de testimonio de residentes.
El plan se enfoca en el crecimiento y desarrollo sostenible, con énfasis en la vivienda, el clima y el transporte. En octubre, el Concejo aprobó enmiendas transformadoras para apoyar la zonificación inclusiva, reducir o eliminar los mínimos de estacionamiento obsoletos, restringir las industrias contaminantes cerca del puerto de Providence, prohibir el desarrollo de nuevas estaciones de gasolina en terrenos aptos para vivienda y fortalecer los compromisos con la acción climática y la lucha contra la falta de vivienda.
Un próximo Código de Zonificación pondrá en práctica muchas de las disposiciones del plan.
“Este Plan Comprehensivo representa un compromiso histórico con el pueblo de Providence”, dijo la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller (Distrito 13). “Moldeado por una amplia participación comunitaria, es una visión audaz que pone a las familias trabajadoras en primer lugar, asegurando que a medida que crecemos, lo hagamos juntos. El plan aborda desafíos urgentes, desde la asequibilidad de la vivienda hasta la justicia climática, sentando las bases para una ciudad más fuerte y equitativa para todos los que llamamos hogar a Providence. Estoy orgullosa de la colaboración que hizo esto posible y lista para el trabajo que tenemos por delante para hacer realidad esta visión.”
“Este plan es un testimonio del poder de la participación pública”, dijo el Líder de la Mayoría Pedro Espinal (Distrito 10). “A través de audiencias públicas y un diálogo continuo con residentes de todos los sectores, hemos creado un plan visionario que responde a las necesidades de nuestras comunidades. Con este plan, la ciudad podrá crecer de una manera que eleve a la clase trabajadora, en lugar de dejarla atrás. Como presidente del Comité de Ordenanzas, fue un honor guiar este proceso hasta su aprobación final hoy”.
El Jefe de la Mayoría Miguel Sánchez Introduce Ordenanza Prohibiendo Multas por Acampada en la Vía Pública
Una ordenanza presentada esta noche por el Jefe de la Mayoría Miguel Sánchez (Distrito 6) prohibiría multar a las personas que duermen o acampan en propiedad pública. Esta ordenanza fue creada en respuesta a la decisión de la Corte Suprema de 2024 sobre el caso City of Grants Pass v. Johnson, que permite la criminalización municipal de la falta de hogar, lo cual el Concejo condenó mediante resolución este año. En los últimos meses, ciudades cercanas como Cranston, RI y Fall River, MA, han adoptado un enfoque punitivo para abordar la falta de vivienda, específicamente prohibiendo el acampado en propiedades públicas. Esta ordenanza rechaza los enfoques punitivos y enfatiza la importancia de soluciones compasivas y basadas en el acceso a la vivienda.
“No puedes multar la falta de hogar”, dijo el Jefe de la Mayoría Miguel Sánchez. “Penalizar a las personas por estar sin hogar es cruel, improductivo y no aborda el verdadero problema: la falta de viviendas asequibles y empleos bien remunerados. Esta ordenanza envía un mensaje claro: la ciudad de Providence elegirá la dignidad, la compasión y soluciones reales por encima del castigo.”
La ordenanza fue remitida al Comité Especial de Salud, Oportunidad, Prosperidad y Educación.
Otros Destacados
El Presidente Pro Tempore Juan M. Pichardo (Distrito 9) presentó una resolución para establecer una designación honoraria en Laura Street como “Algonquin Way” en colaboración con el Concejo Indígena de Rhode Island. La designación honoraria reconoce la importancia cultural de The Algonquin House, que ha brindado apoyo comunitario, económico y social a los residentes nativos americanos durante casi 30 años. La resolución fue remitida al Comité de Renovación, Desarrollo y Planificación Urbana.
La Diputada Jefa de la Mayoría Sue AnderBois (Distrito 3) presentó una ordenanza para eliminar gradualmente los sopladores de hojas a gasolina dentro de los límites de la ciudad debido a los riesgos para la salud pública, los impactos ambientales y los altos niveles de ruido. La ordenanza busca prohibir el uso de sopladores de hojas a gasolina por parte de los contratistas de la ciudad para 2028 y para el público en general para 2033. La ordenanza fue remitida al Comité Especial de Medio Ambiente y Resiliencia, donde se llevará a cabo una discusión más detallada.
Vea la reunión completa del Concejo AQUÍ.
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by Council Staff | Nov 20, 2024 | Blog
Stepping up to a microphone in front of elected officials can be daunting task. Whether the public is speaking out about the need for affordable housing or flooding in our neighborhoods, Providence City Council members need to be available to residents. In our city of neighborhoods, it’s pivotal we’re aware about the broad range of concerns that are unique to any given block, park, or school. When the public spoke out about sound and acoustic issues making it difficult to hear and be heard in the Council Chambers, the Council began taking meaningful steps to address this long-overlooked issue.
“The Council can’t do its job without hearing from the public, so we are working quickly and collaboratively to address the accessibility issues during our meetings,” said Council President Rachel Miller. “Our constituents can now enjoy a Council Chamber that has enhanced accessibility features that welcomes their voices. We will continue to prioritize the needs of our communities in all we do, including with continued improvements in the Chamber.”
In the 19th century architecture of City Hall, the impressive features such as tall ceilings and intricate tile along the floors contribute significantly to the acoustic issues. Creative solutions are needed, implementing the latest technology available and preserving the historic integrity of the space.
The solutions balance the immediate needs of modern audiences and long-term preservation of the building’s character. Improvements so far have included microphone upgrades, new speakers placed strategically below the balcony, speakers added above the balcony, and soon a beautiful rug to improve the transmission of sound throughout the space. In the long-term, the Council is interested in pursuing future projects that further enhance accessibility such as simultaneous translation, projection of video and votes on screens, and sound dampening measures to help with acoustics.
“Solving problems that have existed since 1878 is a tall task, but none too big for this Council,” said Chief of Staff June Rose. “This Council has taken this challenge on with extraordinary energy—because they know they have no job more sacred than swinging open the doors of government to our community. Improved sound and acoustics in the chamber will make our work more accessible, approachable, modern, and inclusive.”
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Solución Acústica en la Cámara del Concejo Histórica
Subirse a un micrófono frente a los funcionarios electos puede ser una tarea desafiante. Ya sea que el público hable sobre la necesidad de viviendas de bajo costo o sobre las inundaciones en nuestros vecindarios, los miembros del Concejo Municipal de Providence deben estar disponibles para los residentes. En nuestra ciudad de vecindarios, es fundamental que estemos al tanto de la amplia gama de preocupaciones que son únicas en cada cuadra, parque o escuela. Cuando el público expresó su preocupación por los problemas de sonido y acústica que dificultaban escuchar y ser escuchado en la Cámara del Concejo, el Concejo comenzó a tomar medidas significativas para enfrentar este problema que se había pasado por alto durante mucho tiempo.
“El Concejo no puede hacer su trabajo sin escuchar al público, por lo que estamos trabajando de manera rápida y colaborativa para enfrentar los problemas de accesibilidad durante nuestras reuniones”, dijo la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller. “Nuestros constituyentes ahora pueden disfrutar de una Cámara del Concejo que tiene características mejoradas de accesibilidad y que da la bienvenida a sus voces. Continuaremos priorizando las necesidades de nuestras comunidades en todo lo que hacemos, incluidas las mejoras continuas en la sala.”
En la arquitectura del siglo XIX del Ayuntamiento, características impresionantes como los techos altos y los intrincados azulejos en los pisos contribuyen significativamente a los problemas acústicos. Se necesitan soluciones creativas, implementando la última tecnología disponible y preservando la integridad histórica del espacio.
Las soluciones equilibran las necesidades inmediatas del público moderno y la preservación a largo plazo del carácter del edificio. Las mejoras realizadas hasta ahora incluyen la actualización de micrófonos, nuevos altavoces colocados estratégicamente debajo del balcón, altavoces añadidos encima del balcón y, pronto, una hermosa alfombra para mejorar la transmisión del sonido en todo el espacio. A largo plazo, el Concejo está interesado en llevar a cabo futuros proyectos que mejoren aún más la accesibilidad, como traducción simultánea, proyección de videos y votaciones en pantallas, y medidas de amortiguación del sonido para ayudar con la acústica.
“Resolver problemas que existen desde 1878 es una tarea grande, pero nada demasiado grande para este Concejo”, dijo jefe/a de personal June Rose. “Este Concejo ha asumido este desafío con una energía extraordinaria, porque saben que no tienen un trabajo más sagrado que abrir las puertas del gobierno a nuestra comunidad. Un mejor sonido y acústica en la sala harán que nuestro trabajo sea más accesible, cercano, moderno e inclusivo.
by Council Staff | Nov 8, 2024 | Council News, Press Release, Ward-13
Providence, RI – Today, R.I. Superior Court issued a decision in favor of Rhode Island Department of Education (RIDE) to withhold $8.5 million in state funds to the city. In response, City Council President Rachel Miller released the following statement:
“This is a striking decision from the court that puts city finances at serious risk. The City Council is dedicated to righting historic wrongs and funding our schools – as demonstrated by this year’s historic single-year increase to school funding. The Council has opened the door and invited a true partnership – we’ve asked to get the full understanding we need of PPSD’s budget and spending in order to responsibly continue a conversation about allocating further funding. Rather than embracing this demonstrated commitment, the state has repeatedly chosen an adversarial route, including taking drastic court action that threatens the financial stability of our city.
While RIDE does not have to consider the impacts of cuts to critical city services or tax increases on a struggling community, we do, and the families of PPSD students do as well. It is shortsighted to ignore devastating cuts – whether they be in our school communities or in our neighborhoods – affecting our kids, public safety, and basic programs. The City Council has offered a hand to move us forward together, instead we’re facing what comes next with deep disappointment, knowing there were better collaborative ways.
Meanwhile, PPSD continues to budget public money in secret, and now threatens to cut sports and bus passes and deprioritize special education and multilingual learners despite Department of Justice mandates. Last year, PPSD irresponsibly ended the year with a $20 million deficit, recklessly threatening current and future city funding for PPSD and for city services. Now, the state is reaching into the city’s pockets to finance their missteps, not based on a mutual understanding of what PPSD needs for students to succeed but on a zero sum aim to win a political fight. We have an obligation to safeguard taxpayer dollars with transparency. We have a goal to fund our schools and city services, to move us forward on a path to prosperity for all students and families. The actions taken by RIDE move us further away from those aims. Why should Providence taxpayers be forced to bankroll an opaque and irresponsible budgeting process that treats students and families as collateral damage?”
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Providencia, RI – Hoy, el Tribunal Superior de Rhode Island emitió una decisión a favor del Departamento de Educación de Rhode Island (RIDE) para retener $8,5 millones en fondos estatales destinados a la ciudad. En respuesta, la presidenta del Concejo Municipal Rachel Miller, emitió la siguiente declaración:
“Esta es una decisión sorprendente del tribunal que pone en grave riesgo las finanzas de la ciudad. El Concejo Municipal está comprometido en corregir los errores históricos y financiar nuestras escuelas, como lo demuestra el aumento histórico de este año en los fondos destinados a las escuelas. El Concejo ha abierto la puerta y ha invitado a una verdadera colaboración: hemos solicitado obtener una comprensión completa del presupuesto y los gastos del PPSD para continuar responsablemente una conversación sobre la asignación de fondos adicionales. En lugar de aprovechar este compromiso demostrado, el estado ha optado por un enfoque confrontativo, incluso tomando medidas judiciales drásticas que amenazan la estabilidad financiera de nuestra ciudad.
Mientras que RIDE no tiene que considerar los impactos de los recortes en servicios críticos para la ciudad o los aumentos de impuestos en una comunidad que ya está luchando, nosotros sí, y también las familias de los estudiantes del PPSD. Es una visión a corto plazo ignorar los devastadores recortes, ya sea en nuestras comunidades escolares o en nuestros vecindarios, que afectan a nuestros niños, la seguridad pública y los programas básicos. El Concejo Municipal ha tendido la mano para avanzar juntos, pero ahora nos enfrentamos a lo que viene con una profunda decepción, sabiendo que existían mejores formas de colaborar.
Mientras tanto, PPSD sigue presupuestando el dinero público en secreto y ahora amenaza con recortar deportes y pases de autobús, además de dar menos prioridad a la educación especial y a los estudiantes multilingües, a pesar de los mandatos del Departamento de Justicia. El año pasado, PPSD irresponsablemente terminó el año con un déficit de $20 millones, poniendo en peligro de manera imprudente los fondos actuales y futuros de la ciudad para PPSD y los servicios municipales. Ahora, el estado está sacando dinero de los bolsillos de la ciudad para financiar sus errores, no basándose en una comprensión mutua de lo que el PPSD necesita para que los estudiantes tengan éxito, sino en un enfoque de suma cero con el objetivo de ganar una pelea política. Tenemos la obligación de proteger los fondos públicos con transparencia. Nuestro objetivo es financiar nuestras escuelas y servicios municipales, avanzar en un camino hacia la prosperidad para todos los estudiantes y las familias. Las acciones tomadas por RIDE nos alejan de esos objetivos. ¿Por qué los contribuyentes de Providence deberían financiar un proceso presupuestario opaco e irresponsable que trata a los estudiantes y a las familias como daño colateral?”
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by Council Staff | Nov 8, 2024 | Uncategorized
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Council Makes Appointments to Juvenile Hearing Board, Authorizes Lifespan PILOT Agreement
Providence, RI – At tonight’s meeting, Providence City Council appointed six new members to the Juvenile Hearing Board: Jaquel D. Scott, Willis Deyior Dunbar, Neyda DeJesus, King’Jarvis Camilo, Kenia Vasquez, and Simone N. Tubman. Under the purview of City Council, the Juvenile Hearing Board is a diversionary program helping keep Providence youth out of the criminal justice system by offering restorative justice practices as a meaningful alternative.
“I’m proud to see our Juvenile Hearing Board well-represented with passionate advocates for our youth,” said Council President Rachel Miller. “These new appointees will help young people avoid the cycle of incarceration by connecting them with counseling, community support, and alternative pathways for accountability. This work is about giving Providence youth a real chance to repair harm, grow, and contribute positively to our community.”
Authorization of PILOT Agreements with Lifespan and RISD
Council approved two resolutions that allow the mayor to enter a payment in lieu of taxes (PILOT) agreement with Lifespan and a new parking agreement with Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Under these agreements, the city will receive $1.5 million from Lifespan over three years and $247,500 from RISD annually for 10 years.
When the administration first reached an agreement with Lifespan in early October, Council President Miller said:
“As the state’s largest hospital system, Lifespan needs to contribute its fair share. $1.5 million is just the start, but Lifespan has much more to do to truly honor its commitment to Providence taxpayers who right now foot the bill for the city services Lifespan benefits from. In years to come, City Council will continue pushing to ensure that Providence residents come out on top.”
The Lifespan agreement will be in place for three years, with payments of $750,000 occurring in the first two, and an opportunity for renegotiation in the third.
First Passage of Ordinance Adopting the Comprehensive Plan
Council voted on first passage of an ordinance adopting the Comprehensive Plan. The Plan was amended by Councilors to include strengthened provisions promoting environmental justice, affordable housing, design standards, and more. The ordinance will be taken up for second passage at the next Council meeting, November 21.
Second Passage of Ordinance Requiring Local Property Manager for Multi-Unit Dwellings
Council passed an ordinance introduced by Councilwoman Shelley Peterson that requires owners of dwellings with six or more units to register a local property manager with the Department of Inspections and Standards. This ordinance aims to protect the safety of tenants and neighborhoods by ensuring that a property manager is reachable and nearby.
Resolutions of Recognition
Council passed multiple resolutions including:
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El Concejo Municipal Hace Nombramientos al Comité de Audiencias Juveniles y Autoriza Acuerdos PILOT
Providence, RI – En la reunión de esta noche, el Concejo Municipal de Providence nombró a seis nuevos miembros para el Comité de Audiencias Juveniles: Jaquel D. Scott, Willis Deyior Dunbar, Neyda DeJesus, King’ Jarvis Camilo, Kenia Vasquez y Simone N. Tubman. Bajo la supervisión del Concejo Municipal, el Comité de Audiencias Juveniles es un programa de desviación que ayuda a mantener a los jóvenes de Providence fuera del sistema de justicia penal, ofreciendo prácticas de justicia restaurativa como una alternativa significativa.
“Me siento orgullosa de ver al Comité de Audiencias Juveniles bien representado por defensores apasionados de nuestra juventud”, dijo la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller. “Estos nuevos miembros ayudarán a que los jóvenes no caigan en el ciclo de encarcelamiento al conectarlos con consejería, apoyo comunitario y caminos alternativos para asumir responsabilidades. Este trabajo trata de darle a la juventud de Providence una verdadera oportunidad para reparar el daño, crecer y contribuir positivamente a nuestra comunidad.”
Autorización de Acuerdos PILOT con Lifespan y RISD
El Concejo aprobó dos resoluciones que permiten al alcalde firmar un acuerdo de pago en lugar de impuestos (PILOT) con Lifespan y un nuevo acuerdo de estacionamiento con el Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Bajo estos acuerdos, la ciudad recibirá $1,5 millones de Lifespan durante tres años y $247,500 anuales de RISD durante 10 años.
Cuando la administración alcanzó un acuerdo con Lifespan a principios de octubre, la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller dijo:
“Como el sistema hospitalario más grande del estado, Lifespan debe contribuir con su parte justa. $1.5 millones es solo el comienzo, pero Lifespan tiene mucho más por hacer para cumplir verdaderamente con su compromiso con los contribuyentes de Providence, quienes actualmente pagan por los servicios municipales de los que Lifespan se beneficia. En los próximos años, el Concejo Municipal continuará presionando para garantizar que los residentes de Providence salgan ganando.”
El acuerdo con Lifespan estará en vigor por tres años, con pagos de $750,000 en los dos primeros años, y una oportunidad de renegociación en el tercero.
Primer Paso de la Ordenanza que Adopta el Plan Comprehensivo
El Concejo votó a favor del primer paso de una ordenanza que adopta el Plan Comprehensivo. El Plan fue enmendado por los concejales para incluir provisiones reforzadas que promueven la justicia ambiental, la vivienda de bajo costo, los estándares de diseño, entre otros. La ordenanza será discutida para su segundo paso en la próxima reunión del Concejo, el 21 de noviembre.
Segundo Paso de la Ordenanza que Requiere un Administrador Local de Propiedades para Viviendas de Múltiples Unidades
El Concejo aprobó una ordenanza presentada por la concejala Shelley Peterson que exige a los dueños de viviendas con seis o más unidades registrar un administrador local de propiedades en el Departamento de Inspecciones y Normas. Esta ordenanza tiene como objetivo proteger la seguridad de los inquilinos y los vecindarios, asegurando que un administrador de propiedades esté disponible y cerca.
Resoluciones de Reconocimiento
El Concejo aprobó varias resoluciones, incluyendo:
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by Council Staff | Oct 31, 2024 | Press Release
The proposed mid-year funding would prevent threatened cuts to sports programs and bus passes
Providence, RI – At a press conference Tuesday, October 29, Providence City Council announced a proposed $2.5 million to Providence Public School District (PPSD) to prevent cuts to all winter and spring sports programs and some bus passes for students. This funding includes $750,000 from a new PILOT deal with Lifespan, $250,000 from a parking agreement with the Rhode Island School of Design, and $1.5 million in reallocated American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars, contingent on PPSD agreeing to a third-party audit of its finances and to spend the money on reversing cuts to sports and bus passes.
PPSD has been aware of this offer since October 22nd but, despite the Council’s swift action to identify these funds, has not accepted.
On October 23rd, Superintendent Javier Montañez wrote a letter to Council Chief of Staff June Rose rejecting this offer, writing “we will move forward with implementing the difficult decisions we have communicated to the City.” On October 25th, Council President Rachel Miller responded with a letter of her own. PPSD has not responded, despite repeated outreach.
The Committee on Finance has postponed the final vote on the ARPA reallocation ordinances to November 7, urging the district to seize this opportunity and prioritize student needs.
Watch the press conference in full here.
Read the Council President’s letter to the Superintendent here.
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El Concejo Municipal Ofrece $2.5 Millones en Fondos de Emergencia a PPSD y Espera una Respuesta
El financiamiento propuesto a mitad de año evitaría recortes amenazados a programas deportivos y pases de autobús.
Providence, RI – En una conferencia de prensa el martes 29 de octubre, el Concejo Municipal de Providence anunció una propuesta de $2.5 millones para el Distrito Escolar Público de Providence (PPSD) con el objetivo de prevenir recortes a todos los programas deportivos de invierno y primavera, así como a algunos pases de autobús para los estudiantes. Este financiamiento incluye $750,000 de un nuevo acuerdo PILOT con Lifespan, $250,000 de un acuerdo de parqueo con la Rhode Island School of Design, y $1,5 millones de dólares realojados del Plan de Rescate Americano (ARPA). Sin embargo, este apoyo está condicionado a que PPSD acepte una auditoría financiera por parte de una entidad externa y se comprometan a utilizar los fondos para restaurar los recortes en los programas deportivos y los pases de autobús.
PPSD ha estado informado de esta oferta desde el 22 de octubre, pero a pesar de la rápida acción del Concejo para identificar estos fondos, aún no la ha aceptado.
El 23 de octubre, el superintendente Javier Montañez escribió una carta al Líder de Gabinete del Concejo, June Rose, rechazando esta oferta, escribiendo: “seguiremos adelante con la implementación de las difíciles decisiones que hemos comunicado a la Ciudad.” El 25 de octubre, la presidenta del Concejo Rachel Miller respondió con una carta. PPSD no ha contestado, a pesar de los repetidos intentos de contacto.
El Comité de Finanzas ha pospuesto la votación final sobre las ordenanzas de reubicación del ARPA para el 7 de noviembre, instando al distrito a aprovechar esta oportunidad y poner en primer lugar las necesidades de los estudiantes.
Mira la conferencia de prensa en su totalidad aquí.
Lee la carta de la presidenta del Concejo al superintendente aquí.
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