I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Mayor Paul Gaines, the first and only Black Mayor in Rhode Island. Mayor Gaines was a legend in Newport, known for his love and commitment to our community. Newport has a lost a truly great man.
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As we continue to have beautiful weather this summer, I want to remind everyone that we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic – when you are out in town, please remember to wear your mask! I have been hearing from local residents and shop owners who are very concerned about how many people do not seem to be following the rules and guidance regarding masks. I have been continually sharing these concerns with City Administration as we work to improve compliance, especially as it seems that many of those not wearing masks are visitors. Let’s all do our part too; wearing a mask is a sign of community and that we are all in this together.
At last week’s City Council meeting, I introduced a resolution that directed the City Administration to prepare various options on how the council might implement a Homestead Exemption in Newport. The impact of the property tax levy on Newport’s full-time, local residents needs to be addressed and controlled. A Homestead Exemption would grant a property tax discount for certain residential properties based on the value of the home, while still allowing the City of Newport to provide the services our community relies on. I want to make sure that any version of the Homestead Exemption that we adopt benefits all our year-round residents – renters and homeowners are equally important and valued members of our community in Newport. This is one of the reasons that I specifically asked for multiple options for implementation – so that the Council has the information to make the right decision.
The City’s budget serves as the primary tool to turn the Council’s policy into action. We need to have ample time to develop the budget and to allow for substantial public comment to ensure that it aligns with the priorities and values of our community. I believe that the Council needs to begin engaging with City staff earlier than we have in the past; our fiscal year runs July 1 to June 30, so we should begin laying out the budget priorities no later than January. My Homestead Exemption resolution has the City Administration coming to the Council in December with options. I want us to hold a workshop to educate the Council and the public on the Homestead Exemption options and to serve as the first budget workshop for the coming fiscal year. Both the Council and the public need multiple opportunities to discuss the budget before it is voted on.
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There are 12 candidates running for At-Large City Council and 7 running for the Ward seats in this coming election. I am very excited to see so many new candidates, from all walks of life – people are in our community are engaged, with a desire to take action and make change. Throughout my time on the Council I have been dedicated to making lasting, structural changes in our government culture. I see the announcement of so many new candidates as a win and a big step in the right direction.