Mayor and Council Differ on City-School Budget Projects
City Council “Pauses” Fire Dept. & DPW Projects. Schools may get nod instead.
Mayor Bob DaSilva and some members of the City Council have differing views on how to fund city and school capital projects. The Fiscal Year 25 budget of $196.4 million includes a separate 2025 Capital Proposed Budget of $6,118,625. These are funds that do not impact the general budget or tax base and can only be used for capital projects. The projects paused include:
At its October 15th meeting the City Council amended the city capital budget to divert $3 million dollars from the above list of city infrastructure items to a school department account as follows:
Ward four Councilman Rick Lawson sponsored the amendment to divert the city funds to the school department. “I think these schools should take priority over equipment. If the school bond surplus comes through, this capital funding can be reallocated,” he said. “We can support both needs.”
Fire Chief Michael Carey said that canceling the replacement of the oldest fire truck in the city will be a hardship and push the eventual price higher if the city is forced to buy one later. Chief Carey also cited the fact that it can take up to two years to purchase and receive a new truck. DPW Director Dan Borges had similar concerns regarding plows and public works equipment.
Council President Bob Rodericks countered that “this is not an either-or issue. We have funding to do all of these needed items, at once, without impacting the tax rate or general budget.” Rodericks is a member of the school bond issue building committee and said the high school project finished with a surplus of over $3 million. “I’ve told this council and others that we will have $3 million transferred from schools to city control in a matter of days. By law, that money can be spent by the city for any purpose it wants. I have an agreement in writing tonight that guarantees the almost $3.2 million dollars will be in an interest-bearing account, strictly for school capital projects. Right now, it garners no interest at all. Also the school projects can be highly reimbursed by the state. A win-win for our city and schools. “We can take care of all these needs and do it with a healthy budget, not in an emergency expenditure down the line.”
However, in a seemingly widening rift between some council members and the Mayor, the diverting of capital project funds from city to schools was passed with support from Lawson, Councilwoman Anna Sousa and Councilman Frank Rego. Ward Three councilman Frank Fogarty joined Rodericks in voting against the proposal.
Mayor Vetoes Council Capital Budget
In a veto letter to the City Council on October 25th, Mayor DaSilva explained his action, writing in part; “As mayor, I was completely baffled by the actions of some of the City Council when they amended this well-vetted capital spending plan and decided to cut funds to replace critical public safety equipment necessary to protect all our residents. The Administration’s proposal included critical funding for a replacement of Ladder 3, a tower truck, which is 29 years old, stationed in Rumford and part of the front-line apparatus of the City. This truck is critical to help protect our elderly residents who reside in high-rise apartments, our students and staff in the several story East Providence High School, and similar buildings in Rumford and others in the center of the City,” wrote DaSilva. DaSilva went on to state several other concerns regarding other fund diversions like DPW plow trucks, etc. “For the reasons stated, I respectfully disapprove of this ordinance and urge the City Council to sustain my veto and restore these funds.” Rodericks said that a vote to override the Mayor’s veto will be scheduled for the November 12th council meeting. “I will also once again present the plan to guarantee $3 million in an interest-bearing revolving account, strictly earmarked for school capital projects,” said the council president. “All sides need to chill the rhetoric. I think we can work this out in the best interest of our residents. This should be a non-controversial issue, to benefit our entire city infrastructure at minimal expense to the residents,” added Rodericks.
Marine 3 Fire Boat Re-Dedicated
The City of East Providence, Mayor Bob DaSilva and members of the East Providence Fire Department welcomed the family of former firefighter Arthur H. Ring to Bold Point Park for the rededication of Marine 3 on Monday, October 21, 2024. Arthur H. Ring, a former member of the East Providence Fire Department, passed away on October 21, 1938, as a result of injuries sustained while attempting to save three people swept into high waters during the Great New England Hurricane of 1938. During Ring’s rescue efforts, he was exposed to raw sewage because of a nearby pumping station’s failure.
Shortly after returning in-service from this incident, there was no time for him to get cleaned up or rest, as Engine Company 1 was dispatched to a multi-alarm fire on First Street, where he and his fellow firefighters provided services for several hours before the fire was extinguished.
The following day, Ring went to his doctor reporting he was not feeling well and was admitted to the hospital for treatment. His condition would only worsen over the next few weeks. Ultimately, on October 21, 1938, Ring succumbed to his illness.
Marine 3 was first named after Ring in 2011 following renovations to the fire boat, which included restructuring, repowering and improving the vessel by lengthening it to house larger inboard diesel engines and jet drives. Recent upgrades were made to the city’s fireboat, which included new navigation systems, updated infrared cameras and upgrades to significantly generate a larger output.
While these additions were being made, Marine 3 was out of service for some time and after being put back into the water East Providence Fire Chief Michael Carey decided it was time to rededicate Marine 3 in Ring’s honor.
“Once again, we proudly remember Arthur H. Ring for his heroic efforts and sacrifice, with this dedication,” Chief Michael Carey said. “This vessel and its service shall continue to keep his memory alive and provide a constant reflection of his exemplary service to the citizens of East Providence.”
Members of Ring’s family were in attendance including his grandchildren Arthur Ring, Ward Ring, Mary Ring, Tom Ring, Luke Ring, John Ring, Paul Ring, Monica Ring, Hope Melfi and Joan Perry, as well as his great-grandchildren Nick Ring, Eddie Ring, Mark Ring, David Ring and Ali Thompson. Ward Ring accepted a plaque on behalf of the family, as members who wished to do so were invited to go out on the boat bearing their loved ones' name.
Representing the City Council was Ward Four councilman Rick Lawson. “The fire boat is welcomed as our waterfront activities increase,” said Lawson.
State Senate Shakeup in the Works. Senator Val Lawson to move up?
A change in senate state house leadership is gaining momentum as RI Senate President Dominick Ruggerio is preparing to change the top of his leadership team. East Providence State Senator and Majority Whip is now number 3 in Democratic leadership. Current Sen. Ryan Pearson, Cumberland, is the Majority Leader and number 2 in leadership after Ruggerio. Pearson appears to have lost Ruggerio’s support after he visited the senate President in his home to ask about his health.
Ruggerio has been absent from state house chambers often while dealing with serious health issues. Reportedly, Pearson visited the President to offer more support if Ruggerio’s health was a problem. Ruggerio was miffed and began to push Lawson to take over as the new majority leader.
Lawson acknowledges that she and Ruggerio have discussed her ascension to the leadership position. “I believe I have the experience and background to help the senate and I’m encouraged at the support I have been receiving.
City Hall goes Red for Dyslexia
As part of the "Go Red for Dyslexia" campaign, an international initiative introduced to Rhode Island in 2020, the City of East Providence has collaborated with Decoding Dyslexia Rhode Island to light City Hall red to help raise awareness for the Dyslexic community.
“By illuminating notable buildings and landmarks in red, the goal is to shift the conventional association of red ink with marking mistakes to celebrating neurodiversity and the unique strengths of the dyslexic mind. Red is also used as a symbol of awareness, hope, unity and understanding for all those who learn differently and the families and teachers who support them,” said a city press release. Children in attendance at the October 16th ceremony received free books.
An emotional firsthand account was shared from Decoding Dyselxia Rhode Island, Family and Student Engagement Coordinator, Tiffany Solomon about how she has used her own lived experiences to enrich the lives of her students and help them through their academic journey.
Decoding Dyslexia Rhode Island Executive Director, Tori Jessop-Crowley was joined by Senator Robert Britto, Mayor Bob DaSilva, Councilman Frank Fogarty and Chairwoman of the East Providence School Committee Jenni Furtado and members of the public.
City Installs Sharps Disposal Units
East Providence residents now have a new option for disposing of used sharps devices such as needles, syringes, lancets, and razors. Two sharps disposal units were installed within the public restrooms of Weaver Library, 41 Grove Ave. The East Providence Fire Department and the East Providence Public Library, with support from the East Providence Prevention Coalition (EPPC), have collaborated to protect public health, reduce risk, address environmental concerns, and protect plumbing systems.
“The presence of sharps disposal cabinets in public restrooms plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the health of our community. With a secure way to dispose of used needles, syringes, and other sharps, we significantly minimize the risk of needle stick injuries and potential transmission of diseases. Each locked, wall-mounted sharps disposal cabinet is heavy-duty stainless steel and tamper-resistant. These sharps disposal cabinets will promote proper disposal of sharps within our community,” said city officials.
The use of self-injected medications to treat chronic illnesses such as diabetes, allergies, migraines, and obesity has increased in recent years. For those who depend on timely injections for their health, they often have to do so away from home. They may seek the privacy of a public restroom to inject their medication discreetly and safely. However, disposing of the sharp can be a challenge. When there’s no sharps container available, needles are often discarded in the trash, exposing employees to bio-hazardous material. The safety of employees and patrons is the number one concern.
“I think this is a great initiative, many public buildings have them. It certainly promotes safe disposal of sharps easier while promoting safety, especially for the custodial staff,” Director of EMS Fire & Rescue Department, Captain John Potvin said.
Madeline Marlow, Coordinator of the East Providence Prevention Coalition
“I think it's a wonderful service to provide in our community and it is an identified need that has been expressed by our residents. Providing access to sharps disposal bins is helping to keep the community safe,” Madeline Marlow, Coordinator of the East Providence Prevention Coalition said.
While the nation, our state, and our city battle an overdose epidemic, anything we can do to support members of our community and destigmatize drug addiction while normalizing seeking help for recovery from drug addiction, we are happy to do it," Meredith Bonds-Harmon, Library Director said.
Grand Diwali Celebration in EP last month
East Providence High School transformed into a vibrant hub of cultural celebration as the Foundation of Indian Americans - New England (“FIA-NE”) hosted its Grand Diwali Celebration.
The event featured a spectacular music concert by renowned singer Kailash Kher as well as a massive food donation drive inaugurated by East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva and Consul General of India, New York Binaya S. Pradhan, to spread the bounty and joy of Diwali to the broader American community.
This year's Diwali celebration was especially meaningful, with the Indian American community in New England coming together to donate over 20,000 pounds of non-perishable food items to local organizations, “This initiative exemplified the spirit of Diwali - sharing the light of hope and joy with those in need,” said a press release from organizers.
The Indian-American community in New England was seeking the establishment of a Consulate in Boston for many years so this is like a dream come true said FIA-New England Executive Anand Sharma. Given the rising demand, the efforts by the Foundation of Indian-Americans (FIA) New England and its partner organizations in discussions with the current Consul General office and the Prime Minister of India have led to this important decision.
Citywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan
East Providence, with assistance from the Rhode Island Division of Statewide Planning and consultant support from the Toole Design Group is currently drafting a citywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan which will identify and address the significant need for multimodal connections throughout the city. “Creating a Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan for East Providence is important for improving safety, intermodal connectivity, and addressing equity by prioritizing active transportation options within neighborhoods of all income types. Creating more walkable and bikeable neighborhoods also improves the quality of life for all residents, visitors, and people who work in the city, by activating neighborhood centers and creating vibrant public street life,” said city planners. The Plan will provide recommendations on where to add bicycle lanes, crosswalks, sidewalks, bus shelters, and additional safety treatments. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan will advance mobility for all transportation users.
Link to survey: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/1f466c33d1f5492ea4012496a62e19f3
N.E. Witches Guild held their annual parade in Riverside in October
The New England Witches Guild held their annual parade, which had originally been held in Wickford, at Crescent Park in Riverside in order to satisfy the growing number of attendees. The festive event featured many members of the Witches Guild marching in the parade. A large crowd lined the streets of Riverside ending at Crescent Park.
The parade was the main event, but there was also plenty of activities for young and old witches and warlocks alike, free face painting, a bounce house, a photo booth, and a live paint class. Adults could enjoy a beer garden courtesy of Moniker Brewery (of Providence), in addition to food trucks on the scene. A portion of the proceeds from the event were set aside to benefit the Carousel Restoration Fund.
The New England Witches Guild mission statement says that they “believe in equality for ALL. We know that everyone has magic, no matter what a human's gender, sexuality, religion, race, ethnicity, or age. Diversity fuels the witchy spirit and we are committed to equity and inclusion across all demographics,” said a press release.
Not everyone supported the parade however, as some members of the Catholic church objected. At lease three Catholic churches in East Providence had priest sermons that Sunday morning condemning the event from the pulpit. “The New England Witches Guild has members who are practicing and non-practicing witches,” wrote one objector. “Please watch over your souls and the souls of your children and stay away,” continued the objector to the parade. For its part, the New England Witches Guild has already scheduled a return next year to Riverside.
Rumford Lions Club to hold their Seventh Annual Harvest Dinner
The Rumford Lions Sixth Annual Harvest Dinner will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 PM on Sunday, November 10, 2024 at the Santa Maria Club, 846 Broadway, East Providence, RI. The dinner menu will begin at 5:00 PM with minestrone soup, followed by the main course of roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, rolls, butter and coffee. This will be topped off with apple crisp for dessert. A cash bar will also be available to diners.
“The public is again invited to join us this year. We have seating for just 200 diners. While we offer tickets at the door, once the 200 seats are sold, we cannot admit any more guests.
The cost of the dinner is $20 per adult and $10 per child under 10 years old. Where else can you get a meal like this at this price without having to leave a tip?
There will also be a raffle table at the meal location,” said organizers.
“If you have joined us for this dinner in years past, you already know that this is high quality, great tasting fare. It is a meal not to be missed.” The net proceeds of the dinner will be used to support community needs and projects in East Providence. Donations also made to the RI Lions Children’s Cancer Fund and the RI Lions Sight Foundation and the EP Scholarship Program. For advance tickets, please call Bill Simpson at 401-438-0623 or Bill Kelly at 401-714-1287.
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