October News Briefs

Police Body Cams Coming to EP
The East Providence City Council approved an agreement for a five year contract with Axon Enterprise, to provide the police department with 65 body cams as well as some 65 tasers.  The agreement was worked out between the Mayor’s office and the police department after a long process of checking into the best vendor for the purchase.  The cost to the city is $160,000 per each of the five years with close to $113,000 reimbursed to the city annually by grant funding.  The agreement came after officers tested body cams from a couple different companies.  The cameras cost $1,750. Each and are warrantied.

Police Chief Chris Francesconi presented the request to the council and strongly recommended the program.  Francesconi explained that the cameras were highly technical and would start filming automatically when an officer pulls out a weapon or does as much as turn on emergency lights.  The purchase also includes maintenance of the body cams.  Halfway through the agreement, the police will receive all new body cams.  Officer training is also included.  The city council gave unanimous approval last month.

Delayed City Statistical Revaluation Project to Begin
Also announced last month is that the City is preparing to begin the Statistical Revaluation Project that had been delayed from December 31, 2021 to December 31, 2022.   Under the Statistical Revaluation, each taxpayer receives a new assessment and will have an opportunity to have a hearing on their new assessment. The City is preparing to visit and inspect (in person) all properties that have sold and those properties whose owners have pulled a building permit within the last year.  “The city of East Providence has hired Northeast Revaluation Group, LLC, a municipal revaluation vendor located in Warwick, RI to assist with the project. The process is expected to begin in October,” said a statement from the Mayor’s office.  “Northeast Revaluation data collectors (Dan Wert, Todd Wheeler, Mike Pratt and John Hocking) will have identification badges and the registrations of their vehicles are on file with the East Providence Police Dept.”  The city of East Providence Assessor’s Division has additional details regarding this process should homeowners have any questions.

The statement further said that “upon visiting a property, data collectors will attempt to perform and interior and exterior inspection of the property to confirm the City’s assessment records are accurate. It is important to note that no valuation decisions are made at the time of inspection. At a later date, the property owner will receive an Interior Data Verification letter that will provide an opportunity to review the interior features and make adjustments.”  Since all assessed valuations are based on sales as of a certain date, later changes in the market will gradually make assessments not in line with the real estate marketplace. The rise and fall of real estate values make certain properties more valuable or less valuable, in relation to each other. Due to these reasons, the state of Rhode Island settled on a three-year schedule for property revaluations.

The project is scheduled for completion in early 2022 and property owners can expect to receive a new assessment notice at that time. The notice will include the new property assessment and information regarding informal appeals. For any questions regarding this process, please call the city of East Providence Assessor’s Office at 401-435-7574. A helpful description of the revaluation process may be found at https://nereval.com under “Revaluations Explained” AND https://nereval.com/property-tax-revaluation/ under FAQs.

Planning Board approves Igus’ Master Plan for a $200M expansion

The City planning board has approved an expansion plan by Igus Inc.  The company based in Cologne, Germany with a large facility in East Providence, is expanding. The privately-held maker of polymer components is planning a $200 million expansion in East Providence.  The company’s East Providence location will now serve as its US headquarters. The 700,000-square-foot expansion will feature shipping, manufacturing and warehouse space on Ferris Avenue.   City officials estimate that the expansion could mean 150 in direct employment jobs, 226 jobs in indirect employment, and 104 induced employment jobs for a total income for all identified employment of $37M.

“Our city is fortunate to have Igus here in our community and we look forward to working with them to expand our tax base and bring hundreds of quality jobs to East Providence,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “This investment is a testament to the confidence that Igus has in our administration and stability in our city.”

“This project will be the largest manufacturing investment in the city's history,” Planning and Economic Dir. William Fazioli said. “Igus has been an important partner with the city in providing high skilled, well-paying jobs for our residents.

“We are extremely pleased with the innovative carbon neutral aspects of the development which will make this one of the most environmentally sustainable buildings in our city,” Fazioli added.

Property tax revenue impacts for the City, based on a $200,000,000 full buildout, would be estimated to generate approximately $5M in annual tax revenue. Project will create good-paying jobs, marking a big step forward for Rhode Island’s Blue Economy

State and City Break Ground on South Quay Marine Terminal project
Governor Dan McKee and East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva today broke ground last month on Phase 1 of the South Quay Marine Terminal project. “When completed, this terminal will become a game-changing wind turbine staging area, creating a central hub for the Northeast’s growing offshore wind economy,” said a City press release.  The Governor and Mayor were joined for the groundbreaking by Senator Jack Reed, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, Congressman James Langevin, Congressman David Cicilline, House Speaker K. Joseph Shekarchi, Senate Majority Leader Michael McCaffrey, East Providence City Council President Robert Britto, Michael Sabitoni, President, RI Building and Construction Trades Council, and Don Law, South Quay Property Owner.

“Rhode Island is a leader in offshore wind and this critical investment continues to ensure that our state remains at the center of this key industry,” said Governor Dan McKee. “I’m grateful to our Congressional Delegation who made sure Rhode Island received our fair share of ARPA dollars and to the General Assembly for passing this proposal. Together, we will not only redevelop this land into a state-of-the-art port but we will also create good-paying jobs in the process.”

"We are thrilled to see shovels in the ground on this project," Mayor Bob DaSilva said. "Thanks to our public-private partnership with the State of Rhode Island and the RI Waterfront Enterprises, this parcel of land, which sat idle for more than 40 years, will be a game-changer for our city and the region both for the offshore wind industry and the number of local jobs it will create."

With prime access to New England, Canada, and the U.S. Midwest markets, South Quay will help streamline the offshore wind supply chain in Rhode Island and support the growth of the offshore wind industry. Thanks to funding from President Biden and Rhode Island’s Congressional Delegation, in his FY 23 budget, Governor McKee directed $35 million in American Rescue Plan funds for South Quay to transform an undeveloped parcel in East Providence and create a large integrated intermodal shipping hub to support the offshore wind industry.

East Providence’s South Quay Marine Terminal project will create a large, integrated, and centralized hub of intermodal shipping specially designed to support the budding offshore wind industry. The terminal will provide a significant number of jobs for Rhode Island residents over the years, along with benefits to the state and region, as well as the environment, and improve freight-transport conditions and support the development of clean renewable energy.

“Under the funding provided for Phase 1, the project development team (City of East Providence, RI Waterfront Enterprises, and RI Commerce) seek to finish the design activities and develop the waterfront portion of the South Quay Marine Terminal to result in a highly robust marineindustrial facility. Phase 1 includes the following components:”

• A 525-foot berth, with a cofferdam bulkhead and concrete platform – is enough for a single large vessel to berth (such as an offshore wind installation vessel, which are typically less than 500 feet long), or two barges, which are the types of vessels projected to be used for early mover offshore wind projects.
• Fendering, bollards, and water service at the bulkhead to accommodate large vessels.
• Approximately 10 acres of laydown area in the uplands behind the bulkhead. This laydown area would be operationally functional to allow for storage of materials/components.
• Additional grading and land improvements throughout the site.

The parties involved describe the area’s location:  “South Quay is situated along the Providence River, right outside of the bustling Providence Harbor and adjacent to a deep-water channel. Additionally, the site is located within 75 nautical miles to the Massachusetts and New York Wind Lease, areas which will rely on sites like the South Quay for manufacturing, storage and construction. The site is also adjacent to I-195 and I95 which run through Rhode Island making the site very accessible to large interstate and highway systems, decreasing time and cost for the transportation of goods.”

“When we wrote the American Rescue Plan Act, we knew it needed to address both acute and long-standing challenges. And I particularly wanted to ensure the $1.67 billion in State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds in the law were flexible and could be targeted to each state’s priorities. The $35 million in federal funding for this project should help transform this site, create a cleaner energy future, and bring more good-paying jobs to Rhode Island now and in the future,” said U.S. Senator Jack Reed, who helped deliver $1.25 billion in state and local funds in the CARES Act and another $1.67 billion in state and local fiscal recovery funds in the American Rescue Plan Act.

Rhode Island has led on offshore wind every step of the way,” said U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse, a champion in the Senate for clean energy. “We are making the big plans for South Quay a reality, thanks to federal funding and the leadership of Governor McKee and the General Assembly. This investment will leverage Rhode Island’s talent, ocean expertise, and location to create a hub for the offshore wind industry, which is primed for major growth by the clean energy parts of our Inflation Reduction Act.”

“Today’s groundbreaking is a huge deal,” said U.S. Representative David Cicilline. “The South Quay Marine Terminal will position Rhode Island to continue on its path as a leader in the offshore wind industry. This project will create good-paying jobs, spur lasting growth in the blue economy, and help reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. I applaud our state and local leaders for this strategic and forward-thinking use of American Rescue Plan funding.”

“The South Quay project has the potential to transform our state’s future,” said Senate Majority Leader Michael J. McCaffrey. “Creating a central hub to support the region’s growing offshore wind industry will help us meet our critical renewable energy goals, and open new doors of opportunity for thousands of Rhode Islanders. This is a wise investment of once-in-a-lifetime federal funding and an example of how much we can accomplish when we work together.”

Trees for Orlo Avenue School
The City of East Providence together with the East Providence Tree Commission and East Providence School Department held a tree planting and outdoor classroom lesson with Orlo Avenue Elementary School students in late September.  “We were excited to once again work with our Tree Commission and the East Providence School Department to continue our efforts in being environmentally responsible while also having the opportunity to provide an outdoor classroom experience for Orlo Avenue students,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said.  “We look forward to this continued collaboration in planting more trees at our schools and throughout the City.”

“The EP Tree Commission analyzed the city's tree inventory and heat islands and Orlo Avenue Elementary School showed a high need for tree cover so the planning began,” East Providence Tree Commission Vice Chair Jenn Tierney said.  “True learning happens when we are able to bring real life experiences to children,” Superintendent Dr. Sandra Forand said. “We are truly grateful for the opportunity to partner with the city and East Providence Tree Commission in creating a healthy, educational and welcoming school environment.  “We are looking forward to continued collaboration in expanding this effort to more schools,” Dr. Forand added.

City and School Department Officials joined the members of the Tree Commission to plant the 10 trees which consisted of Black Tupelo, Red Maple and River Birch trees and personally identified by Commission Chair Dr. Carol Auer as the most appropriate species for the location. “East Providence has made urban forestry a significant priority in recent years,” East Providence Planning and Economic Development Dir. William Fazioli said.  “We have partnered with EP Urban Forest to organize tree plantings, re-established the City's Tree Commission, adopted the state's first native tree ordinance, hosted the Rhode Island Arbor Day celebration, conducted a city-wide tree inventory and implemented a tree equity map to help us identify areas that will benefit from tree plantings.

“All of these efforts underscore the many benefits of trees in our community and local schools are a great place to showcase the importance of trees to the next generation,” Fazioli added.

The event was organized by East Providence Planner Johanna Walczak and plantings were completed with help from PACE-RI CEO Joan Kwiatkowski and her team of PACE-RI volunteers. “PACE-RI is proud to be headquartered here in East Providence and grateful for the Mayor’s environmental stewardship,”  PACE-RI CEO Joan Kwiatkowki said. “We want to be an environmentally responsible neighbor so we’ll help plant trees, compost in our kitchen, recycle in our offices, and we plan to purchase electric vehicles. It all ties in with our non-profit mission to be socially responsible.”

Planning and Economic Development Director to return to private sector
East Providence Planning and Economic Development Dir. William Fazioli has stepped down from his role with the city and says it is time to pass the baton to the next generation of urban planners to continue the great progress the city has made.

The city released a press statement regarding Fazioli's decision:  “It has been an honor and privilege to work with Mayor DaSilva,” Fazioli said. “Over the past three years we have created unprecedented momentum in housing and employment opportunities for East Providence.

“During this time we have withstood the pandemic and have piloted the largest commercial and residential developments in the city’s history,” Fazioli added. “I was fortunate to work with a very professional and dedicated team in the Planning Department and have strong confidence in the future direction of the city.”

The city has capitalized on its underlying strengths to improve the quality of life of residents with many new initiatives that make East Providence an attractive place to live and work. We are proud of the work that we have done to usher in new initiatives including a formal arts district, public art installations, an urban forestry program, mixed-use zoning to revitalize downtown corridors and a strong commitment to affordable housing in East Providence," continued Fazioli.

“Under my administration, with assistance from Mr. Fazioli, East Providence Planners have accomplished many things but there is still more work to be done,” Mayor DaSilva said. “Bill has been an asset to our administration and brought a wealth of knowledge to our city. We are excited to continue our work with him.”

Fazioli, who has accepted a position in the private sector, will continue his involvement with the city through his role with the East Providence Waterfront Commission.  Fazioli is also a former East Providence City Manager.

“I remain committed to the city in future developments and will continue my tenure as Chair of the Waterfront Commission through 2026,” Fazioli added. “I look forward to exciting developments within the Waterfront District including the formation of the South Quay Marine Terminal, a live music venue along with additional residential and mixed-use projects.”

EP Fire Department Receives Achievement Award
The East Providence Fire Department has received the American Heart Association’s Mission: Lifeline EMS GOLD achievement award for its commitment to offering rapid, research-based care to people experiencing the most severe form of heart attack, ultimately saving lives.  Each year, more than 250,000 people experience a type of heart attack known as an ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), caused by a blockage of blood flow to the heart that requires timely treatment. To prevent death, it is critical to restore blood flow as quickly as possible by either mechanically opening the blocked vessel or using clot-busting medication.

“East Providence Fire Department is honored to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our dedication to providing optimal care for heart attack patients,” Director of Emergency Medical Services Capt. John Potvin said. “The Mission: Lifeline program puts proven knowledge and guidelines to work on a daily basis so patients have the best possible chance of survival.”

Holiday Events Begin

Annual Tree Lighting/Holiday Celebration:
The City will hold its annual tree lighting/holiday celebration on Saturday, November 26, 2022, outside of City Hall from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.  The general public is invited.  The event will be held at the East Providence City Hall Plaza, 145 Taunton Ave. East Providence, RI.  The Rain Date is Sunday, November 27, 2022.

This year the tree lighting will be lit in memory of East Providence residents who were lost due to COVID-19.  If you lost a loved one to COVID-19, the City invites you to donate ONE-holiday ornament in their memory to decorate the memorial tree at City Hall.  If you are interested in having an ornament placed on the tree in a loved one's memory and cannot attend the event, please drop off the ornament to the Mayor's Office located at 145 Taunton Ave. (Third Floor) by 3 p.m. on Monday, November 21, 2022.

The popular event will feature food, vendors, memorial ornaments, popcorn, hot cocoa, music and performances.  There will be a visit by Santa with treats for the kids.

Also, if you are a food or craft vendor and would like to feature/sell your products at the Holiday Celebration, please Register or ask questions at Mayorsoffice@eastprovidenceri.gov.

Election Information:
EAST PROVIDENCE RESIDENT DEADLINE VOTER REGISTRATION EAST PROVIDENCE CITY HALL 145 TAUNTON AVENUE SUNDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2022 HOURS: 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.

General Election is Tuesday, November 8^th
The deadline for registration of new voters to vote in the General Election is October 9, 2022 to be able to vote on November 8, 2022.  Changes of address and name changes may also be made at this time.  A new federal law permits voter registration change of address, and name change to be mailed.  Call the canvassing office at 435-7502, or go to VOTE.RI.GOV for a voter registration form and the hearing-impaired, TDD: 431-1633, for a form.  Mailed registrations must be postmarked by October 9, 2022 for the voter to be eligible to vote in this November General Election.  Mail ballot applications for the General Election must be received by the Canvassing Authority no later than 4:00: pm Tuesday, October 18, 2022.

Early voting begins on Wednesday, October 19, 2022.  Early voting is only done in the first floor City Hall lobby between the hours of 8am to 4pm on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday.  Also on Thursday from 8am to 6pm and Friday from 8am to 1pm.  One Saturday will be allotted for early voting – November 5^th from 9am to 1pm.  Please Call 435-7502, if you have any questions regarding your Polling Place or go to VOTE.RI.GOV to see your voter information, track Mail Ballot Status, and see sample ballots.  -  Leslie Shattuck-Moore, Canvassing Administrator.

The Polls Will Be Open From 7:00 AM To 8:00 PM on Tuesday, November 8^th, 2022.                       

Ward  SEN    REP      DIST.    Location
1          14        63        1001    Francis School, 64 Bourne Ave
1          14        63        1002    City View Manor, 99 Goldsmith Ave.
2          14        63        1003    Whiteknact School, 261 Grosvenor Ave.
1          18        63        1004    Rumford Towers, 95 Newman Ave.
1          18        63        1005    Francis School, 64 Bourne Ave.
2          18        63        1006    East Prov. Senior Center, 610 Waterman Ave
2          14        64        1007    St. Francis Church Hall, 81 N. Carpenter St.
2          14        64        1008    Hennessey School, 75 Fort St.
3          14        64        1009   Martin Middle School 111 Brown St.
3          14        65        1010   Fuller Learning Center 260 Dover Ave
3          14        65        1011   Kent Heights School, 2680 Pawtucket Ave.
3          18        65        1012   Riverside Congregational, 295 Bullocks Pt. Ave.
4          18        65        1013   Harbor View Manor, 3663 Pawtucket Ave.
4          18        65        1014   Riverside Library, 475 Bullocks Pt. Ave.
4          32        65         1015    Crescent Park Manor, 243 Crescent View Ave.
4          32        66        1016    Waddington School, 101 Legion Way
4          32        66        1017    Oldham School, 60 Bart Dr. (Formerly Meadowcrest)