October 2, 2026
City’s Growth in Tax Base Helps Reduce 2026 Tax Rates to 2.1% or $.28
The office of Mayor Bob DaSilva has issued a statement announcing that the 2026 tax rate has been established. The tax rates for Fiscal Year 2026, with tax bills scheduled to begin arriving in mailboxes in the coming weeks. “The City of East Providence experienced significant growth in its tax base, in part due to commercial and residential development and investments in utility infrastructure. Although the approved budget increase in the tax levy is 4%, the actual tax rate only increased by 2.1% due to the growth in the city’s tax base,” said Mayor DaSilva.
For FY2026, the residential tax rate will adjust from 13.07 to 13.35, a 2.1% change. The commercial tax rate will adjust from 20.63 to 21.06, also a 2.1% change. The tangible tax rate will remain unchanged at 56.81, consistent with the statutory cap established under Rhode Island law.
“City officials worked diligently throughout the budget process to minimize the impact on residents while continuing to invest in essential services, infrastructure improvements, public safety and long-term community priorities. The overall rate change of about 2% remains below the current U.S. inflation rate of roughly 3.8%, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics,” added the statement.
The administration statement continued: “East Providence continues to see encouraging economic growth, with ongoing residential and commercial development, active construction projects and significant infrastructure investments from Rhode Island Energy contributing to the City’s expanding tax base. This continued growth helps strengthen the City’s financial foundation and lessen the burden on existing taxpayers over time.” Tax bills are expected to be mailed in early June, with the first‑quarter payment due on July 1st.
City Council Re-visits “Six Corners” Action Plan
On Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the City Council authorized the Mayor to enter into a contract with BETA Group Inc. for up to $117,000 to complete the Six Corners Supplemental Action Plan under the Safe Streets and Roads for All program. The project is fully funded by a $100,000 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation and the City’s already-committed $25,000 match, with no additional taxpayer funding required.
“This supplemental plan will deliver both small-scale and large-scale recommendations to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers, and public transit users in the Six Corners area. The action advances the City’s adopted Safe Streets and Roads for All Safety Action Plan and supports the goal of zero roadway fatalities and serious injuries by 2045. As a result, East Providence moves closer to safer streets, reduced crashes, and stronger protection for all residents who live, work, and travel in the Six Corners neighborhood,” said Mayor DaSilva.
The resolution was first voted down by the council at a prior meeting with only Council President Bob Rodericks and Ward One Councilman Frank Rego in support. Ward Two member Anna Sousa and Ward Three member Frank Fogarty objected, wanting more information. Ward Four member Rick Lawson voted against hiring outside consultants.
“The six corners traffic and pedestrian area has been a poorly planned traffic and pedestrian pattern for decades, without being addressed,” said Rodericks after the meeting. “I don’t know why we (council) would object to grant funding to seek a long-needed solution,” added Rodericks. “I do understand that some here (council members) required more direct information.”
The Mayor met with and provided more reasoning for his request to move forward with a plan. Councilman Fogarty said that he was satisfied with the information he received from the Mayor’s office and had consulted with Councilwoman Sousa also. “I support this now and defer to Councilwoman Sousa as this is in her ward,” said Fogarty.
In making the motion to now approve, Sousa reiterated that this “has been an issue for a long time. Fixing or rehabbing that area has been a high priority and always has been. This can be better for all business and pedestrian and vehicle travel. Lack of communication is always the breakdown of everything. Having had a discussion about it (with administration) and having an understanding, I do agree with this…,” said Sousa. Sousa was reportedly upset because the Mayor’s office hadn’t briefed her on the initial plan.
After reconsidering the issue, the resolution passed 4-1 with Ward Four Councilman Rick Lawson still remaining in opposition. Lawson explained his opposition: “We pay tax dollars, we have a department of transportation, what the ‘heck’ are we paying them for. This is the kind of stuff that they should be doing. So that’s why I object. I absolutely agree that the state of Rhode Island, something has to change, throwing money at these consultants and stuff, why do we have these people on staff as employees. I can’t support consultants.”
“RIDOT can’t do everything, it’s a team effort, that’s why I’m moving forward with this,” said Sousa in reply to Lawson. “But I agree and will only look at future consultants here on a case-by-case basis,” she added.
Rodericks addressed the issue of consultants. “This does call for a response from me. I understand that most, if not all of these dollars are grant funded. It’s not coming from a direct budget item, sure, everything we do in this country comes from our pockets, but we run a budget and this has minimal or no impact on our budget. When you have an area as complicated as the “six corners,” which design was mangled by others long ago – our parks and DPW do not have the expertise, time or staff to correct this easily. While all opinions here make some sense, sometimes we have to rely on experts to help with complicated engineering,” added Rodericks. “In this case, almost no direct cost to us.”
The resolution on Six Corners states in part:
“On September 24, 2025, the City entered into a $100,000 grant agreement with the U.S. Department of Transportation through their Safe Streets and Roads for All program. The total project cost is $125,000 with a $25,000 match already provided by the City (consisting of $18,750 cash and $6,250 in-kind expenses). The grant award will be used by the City to develop a Supplemental Action Plan for the Six Corners area which will focus on both small scale and large-scale recommendations to enhance safety for pedestrians, cyclists, drivers and public transit users.
The City Council hereby authorizes the Mayor to enter into a contract with BETA Group Inc. in the amount of up to $117,000 for planning and engineering services related to the Safe Streets for All Supplemental Action Plan for the Six Corners Area.”
EP Police Make Arrests
The East Providence Police Department announced the arrest of a suspect connected to a commercial break-in that occurred during the early morning hours of May 20, 2026. At approximately 4:30 am, patrol officers responded to Riverside Market on Bullocks Point Avenue after receiving a report of a burglar alarm. Upon arrival, officers discovered the business had been broken into. Detectives immediately responded and launched an investigation alongside members of the Patrol Division. Through outstanding teamwork between the Patrol Division and Detective Division, along with valuable assistance from members of the East Providence community, investigators were able to quickly identify a suspect. Detectives tracked the suspect to a hotel parking lot in Seekonk, Massachusetts, where detectives located Jeffrey Willis, 63, of East Providence. While under observation, Willis was seen smashing the window of a parked vehicle and was immediately taken into custody by Seekonk Police officers less than 12 hours from the original call.
Willis was charged by the Seekonk Police Department with Vandalism and Fugitive from Justice charges. He will also face charges in East Providence for Breaking and Entering into a Business and will await extradition back to Rhode Island. He has an extensive criminal record dating back 40 years.
“This arrest highlights the dedication and persistence of our officers and detectives, as well as the strong partnerships we continue to build with neighboring agencies and our community. Residents should feel reassured knowing the work being done every day to identify offenders, protect businesses, and bring those responsible for crimes to justice,” stated the police press release. “The Police Department thanks the Seekonk Police Department and the members of our community, whose support and cooperation continue to play a critical role in keeping our neighborhoods safe.”
Vandalism Suspect Caught
The East Providence Police also issued a statement regarding an arrest made regarding someone defacing a street crosswalk. The police arrested a Johnston man following the vandalism of the newly painted American flag-themed crosswalk on Turner Avenue along the Memorial Day parade route. “Our officers responded after reports that a black BMW intentionally accelerated through the freshly painted crosswalk, leaving two long tire marks across the artwork just one day after it was completed in honor of Memorial Day. Through neighborhood surveillance footage, resident cooperation, and Flock Safety technology, officers identified the operator as David Cafaro, 32, of Johnston, RI. Cafaro was taken into custody without incident and arraigned this morning in District Court, where he pleaded nolo contendere to Vandalism/Malicious Injury to Property. As part of the plea, Cafaro was ordered to pay restitution to the City, enter drug counseling, and serve one year of probation. This marks the third arrest made by the East Providence Police Department involving the defacing or vandalism of a ceremonial painted crosswalk in our city in recent years. Anyone responsible for damaging city property will be identified, arrested, and charged accordingly,” affirmed police officials.
R.I. Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative & Local Police Issue Statement
A Providence Police press release of May 28, 2026 stated that a joint narcotics investigation conducted through the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative has resulted in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of more than four kilograms of suspected cocaine, a firearm, cash, vehicles, and narcotics-related evidence connected to a large-scale drug trafficking operation operating in and around Providence.
The investigation, conducted between January and May 2026 by members of the Providence Police Department Narcotics and Organized Crime (NOC) Unit in partnership with the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Violent Crimes Initiative, East Providence Police Department, and Warwick Police Department, focused on individuals suspected of distributing illegal narcotics throughout the City of Providence and surrounding communities.
“This investigation represents the kind of coordinated, intelligence-driven policing that is critical to disrupting violent narcotics trafficking in our capital city and throughout Rhode Island,” said Providence Police Chief Oscar Perez. “The seizure of more than four kilograms of suspected cocaine, along with a firearm and other trafficking evidence, reflects the outstanding work of our Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit and our law enforcement partners. Individuals who continue to engage in large-scale drug distribution and endanger public safety will be held accountable.”
On May 19, 2026, law enforcement officers executed multiple court-authorized search warrants at residences in Providence, East Providence, and Warwick connected to the investigation. During the operation, Deric Hazard, 54, attempted to flee from law enforcement in a vehicle, striking multiple vehicles during the incident before crashing near Flora Street and Branch Avenue. Hazard was subsequently taken into custody. At the time of his arrest, Hazard was on parole stemming from a prior first-degree murder conviction.
During the incident, officers recovered approximately 1,718.67 grams of suspected cocaine that had been discarded from the vehicle. Multiple agencies then executed simultaneous search warrants at four targeted residences, resulting in the seizure of additional large quantities of suspected cocaine and evidence consistent with narcotics trafficking – totaling over 4 kilograms.
“It goes without saying that law enforcement collaboration is essential to ensuring public safety,” said Attorney General Peter F. Neronha. “Oftentimes, criminal activity doesn’t fit neatly within municipal borders. That’s why our Task Force – a partnership between our Office and law enforcement agencies in Rhode Island’s urban core – is crucial to rooting out the individuals who drive violent crime in the greater Providence area. Here, we allege that the defendants possessed 4.25 kilos of cocaine and unlawfully possessed a firearm following a violent crime conviction. Now, they will answer to these charges in court. I am grateful to the continued partnership of the agencies involved in our initiative.”
Items Seized During the Investigation:
Providence Police K9 units also assisted during the execution of the search warrants. The suspected narcotics were field tested and submitted to the Rhode Island State Toxicology Laboratory for further analysis.
Lazar Hazard, 43, has been charged with:
Jose Melendez, 56, and Deric Hazard have both been charged with:
The Providence Police Department recognizes the collaborative efforts of the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Violent Crime Initiative, East Providence Police Department, Warwick Police Department, and all assisting law enforcement personnel involved in this investigation.
“This is yet another example of our officers working hand in hand with neighboring agencies to stop the distribution of harmful narcotics and firearms in our community,” said a posting from the East Providence Police. “A big shout out to our Special Investigations Unit and the Special Reaction Team (SWAT) for working the investigation and executing the potentially dangerous search warrant.”
Police tout their Community Involvement in Recruiting Effort
Last month, members of the East Providence Police Department Community Policing Unit were actively engaged throughout the city connecting with residents, attending neighborhood events, visiting local schools, and building positive relationships that strengthen our community every day. “Community policing is about more than responding to calls for service. It’s about trust, communication, problem-solving, and working together to improve the quality of life for everyone in East Providence. These partnerships help make our neighborhoods safer and stronger,” said a department post.
“If you’re looking for a career where you can truly make a difference in the community you serve, now is the time to apply. The East Providence Police Department is currently accepting applications during our open enrollment period through June 15th! Be a part of a department committed to professionalism, service, and community engagement. Join our team! https://www.policeapp.com/Entry-Level-East.../1729/
Last month the East Providence Police Department welcomed Lou Azevedo as our new Harbormaster. Bob DaSilva, East Providence Mayor provided the oath for the new appointment. “Lou has been a familiar face on the bay, having previously served as an Assistant Harbormaster for the last 17 years. He brings a wealth of knowledge to the position. Join us in welcoming Lou Azevedo as East Providence's new Harbormaster,” – East Providence Police.
Riverside “Subway” Gets its License - Finally
It took a long time and many deadlines passed but the Subway sandwich shop in Riverside finally received permission to operate. The Subway just off Willett Avenue received its required new license by the City Council. When the license renewal first was scheduled for approval, City Council President Bob Rodericks balked at the owner’s seemingly ignoring permit and health department inspection deadlines. “I’ll tentatively agree to an extension, so as not to put innocent workers out of a job,” Rodericks said, “but if they don’t comply within days, I can’t approve of their continuance.”
Other council members reluctantly agreed to extending the compliance deadline and the city clerk’s office diligently attempted to get the business to be compliant. Finally at the May 19 council meeting, city solicitor Michael Marcello reported that all inspections and permits were received, including tax payments. As the council unanimously gave approval, Rodericks had one last comment to the owner who had showed up for the first time. “In the future, please comply a little quicker?” “Yes, I will,” was the owner’s response.
The Wolf School seeks Addition
The Wolf School is seeking permission to construct a 16,261 sq. ft. addition onto the rear of the existing school located at 215 Ferris Avenue. The plan is being reviewed as a Development Plan Review in accordance with the Unified Development Plan Review procedural process. The applicant’s submission requires dimensional relief.
The applicant seeks permission to construct a 16,261 sq. ft. addition titled Development Plan Review of the East Providence Land Development and Subdivision Review Regulations.Plans and other materials may be examined in the Office of the Department of Planning and Economic Development, City Hall, Room 309, 145 Taunton Avenue, East Providence, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Wednesday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The proposed Development Plan Review may be revised with the permission of the Planning Board as a result of further study or because of the views expressed at the public hearing.
Individuals requesting interpreter services for the hearing impaired or needing other special services must call 435-7500 48 hours in advance of the meeting date. The meeting is June 8, 2026, at 6:00 P.M. at City Hall.
Blake Costa Memorial Playground Dedicated
On Saturday, May 16, 2026 the City of East Providence officially dedicated the playground at Grassy Plains Pars in honor of a beloved Riverside child, Blake Costa, who tragically lost his courageous fight with brain cancer in May of 2020.
Blake’s ability to bring people together through his fearless bravery and love for life has continued to have an impact throughout the East Providence community and throughout the state, making the decision to dedicate the parks playground in Blake’s memory an easy one.
“This park will forever stand as a tribute to Blake’s spirit, a place filled with laughter, play and the simple joy that every child deserves,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said.” It is my hope that every child who enjoys this playground, every family who gathers here to create lifelong memories and every smiled shared, will carry a piece of Blake’s memory.” Over one hundred family members, friends, community members and those throughout the state who Blake Costa had an immense impact on were in attendance for the memorial park dedication.
“Blake showed us all that even the smallest person can make the biggest impact, this park now becomes a part of his legacy, it is more than just a playground, it is a place where Blake’s spirit will live on, it is a place filled with laughter with families with children playing and making memories, just like he used to do,” Nick Costa, Blake’s father said.
“Our hope is every time someone comes here they feel a piece of Blake, that they’re reminded to be brave, kind, bring people together and to never take a single moment for granted,” Costa added.
As part of the dedication ceremony, the City of East Providence unveiled a memorial plaque that will forever stand at the playground of Grassy Plains Park with a photo of Blake Costa.
City Fire Department Fleet Strengthened
The City Council authorized the Mayor to purchase a new Wheeled Coach Type 1 Ambulance for $465,559 and approved an additional $95,000 for a staff pickup truck for the Fire Department. Both acquisitions are funded through the department’s 2026 Capital budget, utilizing approved funds, negotiated savings, and a grant from the RI Department of Environmental Management’s Diesel Emissions Reduction program. “These additions significantly enhance emergency response capabilities, improve operational efficiency for daily tasks and maintenance, and ensure first responders have reliable, modern equipment. As a result, East Providence benefits from faster and more effective emergency medical service, greater overall readiness, and a stronger commitment to protecting the lives and safety of all residents,” said fire department officials.
City Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee
On Wednesday, May 13, Mayor Bob DaSilva signed an Executive Order establishing the Mayor's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee to improve bicycle and pedestrian transportation throughout the city. The new committee known as MBPAC will serve in an advisory capacity to consult the Office of the Mayor and other members of the administration, offering input on bicycle and pedestrian transportation issues, helping guide policy, and elevating community priorities. It will maintain strong connections to broader planning efforts such as the City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan, Safe Streets for All initiatives, Comprehensive Plan, and Vision Zero goals. The Committee is empowered to work with and through the Planning Department and other municipal offices in order to accomplish any work deemed necessary.
The Committee shall consist of 7 residents of the City of East Providence who reflect the diversity and the various neighborhoods of the City and shall meet on a quarterly basis. The committee was created in direct response to the recently completed Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan which assesses current conditions and recommends a standing advisory body composed of East Providence residents. It will focus on enhancing non-motorized transportation options for residents of all ages, incomes and abilities, improving access to schools, parks, businesses and public transit, better connecting various areas of the City, providing recreational activities, and improving public health and quality of life for residents and visitors. To apply, visit eastprovidenceri.gov.
Revolutionary War Banners Throughout City
New commemorative pole banners honoring Revolutionary War soldiers and patriots buried in East Providence are being installed throughout the city as part of the community’s ongoing semi-quincentennial celebrations.
The first 16 banners have been installed around City Hall. Additional banners will soon appear in Rumford along Newman Avenue, Pawtucket Avenue, Pleasant Street and Greenwood Avenue, as well as in Riverside along Willett Avenue and Forbes Street.
The banners feature the names of Revolutionary War soldiers and patriots buried in Newman Cemetery and Ancient Little Neck Cemetery, recognizing individuals who contributed to the nation’s founding.
Local history researcher, and East Providence 250 Commission Vice Chair, Sandra Turgeon compiled a list of 147 Revolutionary War soldiers connected to East Providence using the Rhode Island Historical Cemeteries database, Revolutionary War veteran monuments erected by the East Providence Bicentennial Commission, and research preserved in the collections of the East Providence Historical Society.
Residents interested in learning more about the soldiers featured on the banners will soon be able to access biographies and historical information through QR codes posted near gravesites, on the EP250.com website and during a special event planned for September 2026 at Newman Cemetery. Both cemeteries will also be featured stops on the Discover Historic East Providence bus tours organized by the East Providence 250 Commission and planned for June and September. Visit www.EP250.com for dates and registration information.
The pole banner project was coordinated by the East Providence 250 Commission and the East Providence Historical Society. Michelle Perry of the East Providence Public Library assisted with banner design, and employees from the city’s Highway Division installed the banners.
Appointed by Mayor Bob DaSilva, the East Providence 250 Commission coordinates events and programs commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial through projects related to the 250th anniversary of American independence. Funding for the pole banner project was provided in part through a grant from the Rhode Island Semi-quincentennial Commission (RI250).
Household Hazardous Waste Collection
The city’s annual Eco-Depot Household Hazardous Waste Collection event is set for Saturday, July 25 at the East Providence DPW Yard. Residents can safely dispose of household hazardous materials including paints, batteries, household cleaners, pesticides, fluorescent bulbs, and more. You can make an appointment by calling (401) 942-1430 x3241 or by visiting ecodepotri.org.
The American Musical Journey: A Concert by Ed Sweeney
Weaver Library Concert June 15th 6:30-7:30pm
Ed Sweeney takes his audience on an American Musical Journey playing guitar, 5-string banjo and fretless banjo. This concert celebrates the 250th anniversary of America through traditional folk songs, blues, ragtime, and banjo tunes. In this performance, Ed Sweeney will weave portraits of our American history and life by performing songs and instrumentals from colonial times, the Civil War, the Western Expansion, the Cowboy songs, Railroad Songs, the Great Depression, World Wars to our current day and how all of these events relate to our history.
Ed Sweeney honors people and their histories by presenting music that entertains and educates. Through his musical expertise, breadth of knowledge, and wonderful sense of humor, he helps listeners, understand the motivations, stories, and culture that have made us who and what we are today. For more than 45 years Ed Sweeney has actively explored ways to research, learn, perform and teach traditional American music. He started this journey in high school, then became the first music major at Providence College in 1973 where he helped create and shape a curriculum. Ed’s music reaches a diverse audience through NPR or on the hundreds of radio stations and on-line networks around the world. Currently, his music is playing in Disneyland, Disneyland Paris and Disneyland Tokyo.
This concert is sponsored by the City of East Providence 250 Commission. Free and open to all. Registration not required. The concert will be held on Monday, June 15th 6:30-7:30pm at the Weaver Library on Grove Avenue.
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