On the docket for this Wednesday’s Council meeting is the resolution I submitted directing the City Manager to provide the City Council with the homestead exemption report as the Council directed in June, and for him to schedule a Council workshop to discuss the options in public. The City needs a more flexible tax system that prioritizes our year-round community; a homestead exemption is one tool to accomplish this. For our city to continue to thrive as a community, we have to put our residents first.
Newport operates under a City Council-City Manager form of government; the Council sets the policy, and the City Manager carries it out. He is the in charge of the running of the City government and all City employees report to him. The Council appoints the City Manager and thus he is subject to evaluation by us. Just as the City Council is held accountable by Newporters in each election, it is the Council’s job to hold the City Manager accountable, and to give him direction and guidance. I have submitted a resolution calling on the Council to perform this evaluation, making sure that the Council and City Manager are able to work together effectively for our City.
Also on the docket are the changes to our zoning ordinances that will prohibit the sale of marijuana in Newport for 6 months. This will allow our City staff and the Planning Board time to study if it realistic to allow for marijuana sales in Newport in the event that the State pursues legalization. There are many questions on how or if such a facility could fit into our City; we have to do our due diligence. It is important for us to be prepared and have ordinances on the books before any laws are passed at the State level.
Finally, I want to note that although a Coronavirus vaccine has been produced and is being distributed, it is of utmost importance that we remain vigilant in our health and safety practices. Wear a mask, social distance, and wash your hands often.