Chris Dias to Seek Ward 4 EP School Committee Seat - Candidates Lining Up

Even though it is several months away, the number of residents planning to run for office is beginning to add up for the November 2016 election. The latest candidate to publicly announce is Chris Dias, 33 of Riverside. Dias said that he will run for the East Providence Ward 4 School Committee seat that is currently held by Jessica Beauchaine.

Dias is a lifelong resident of East Providence and a 2000 graduate of East Providence High School. "I am very active in the community and with a toddler (20 months) and a daughter (15 yrs) who is a student athlete at East Providence High School, I have an interest in the immediate and future direction of the School Department," said Dias.

Dias is married to Amy Marchetti Dias, whom is also a lifelong East Providence resident. He touts his professional background in finance and budgeting as a major advantage should he be elected. "I am the sole buyer for a 45 million dollar, nonprofit company, in which I have been employed for 14 years. I have a proven track record of being fiscally responsible and working under strict budgeting guidelines. This experience will prove to be especially valuable and vital when working towards more funding without increased taxes," said Dias.

"With the years of experience I have with bid processes, budget management, and fiscal responsibility for a nonprofit where savings is the name of the game, I think I will be able to work with the new Financial Director to help monitor vendors and other fiscal areas," added Dias.

Dias also said that he wants to help with the many special projects in the city aimed at building up the city's positive environment. "My goal in running for school committee is to be the strong voice of my constituents and to work on behalf of the children of our city to restore the Townie Pride that this community is famous for. Having played football throughout my High School career, and winning 2 State Championships, I know what Townie Pride is all about and can't wait to help restore it in our city," said Dias.

Dias said he doesn't have a specific complaint about anyone on the board but does think he can represent Ward 4 well. "I have liked some things I've seen in the current and previous school committees, but I believe I can be a stronger voice for Ward 4, especially with my day to day business experience. I really want to add my skills to the current committee's progress."

Other candidates include Ward 3 School Committee incumbent, Nathan Cahoon for reelection, Chrissy Rossi for the School Committee At-Large seat and Candy Seel and Joe Botelho for the Ward 3 city council seat held by Mayor Tom Rose.

Also rumored to be running for the City Council-At-Large seat is former city councilman and Mayor Bruce Rogers. Other incumbents are considering their intentions but haven't announced yet.