News Briefs

Fired HR Director Wins Court Case Against City:

Judge William Smith of the US District Court ruled that East Providence HR Director Kathleen Waterbury was unlawfully fired by City Manager Richard Kirby. The ruling called for her immediate reinstatement at City Hall. The Court decision said that because Waterbury had completed her probationary period of employment, she could only be fired for cause. "There is no dispute that the City did not afford Ms. Waterbury notice and an opportunity to respond as required," said the Court ruling in part. "Due process was not followed." Kathleen Waterbury's attorney, Stephen Izzi said that the Court ruling has vindicated his client from charges brought by the City.

City Manager Richard Kirby had indicated after last month's Court ruling that he would seek legal advice on how to proceed from this point. Waterbury had previously complained that she was the victim of sexual harassment by former Manager Paul Lemont. She complained that Kirby ignored her report of the incidents that she brought to his attention. She also named city Fire Chief, Oscar Elmasian in her complaint. Lemont was transitioning with new Manager Kirby at that time. "When I told the Mayor (Tom Rose) that I had some concerns with the performance of our HR Director (Waterbury), I found myself being intimidated," said Kirby. The council voted 4-1 that HR Director Waterbury will report directly to City Solicitor Chapman, during the harassment investigation and not the Manager.

The case also pitted Mayor Tom Rose against Manager Richard Kirby. During an earlier city council hearing to look into the job performance of Kirby, the manager came out swinging with intimidation charges against Rose. City Manager Richard Kirby alleged that Mayor Tom Rose had acted to intimidate him and has illegally interfered with city personnel matters. "You called for this review of my performance," said Kirby. "For what reason," he asked. "Well, to review this matter," answered Rose. The council agenda said they were to review the city manager's performance.

With two arms full of books and paperwork, Kirby went on. "Mr. Mayor, I've been very professional to everyone I've dealt with in this city. I told you before, Mr. Mayor, that it was inappropriate for you to get involved with personnel at the level you have," said Kirby in a stern voice. "I've said you shouldn't constantly come to City Hall and get involved with directing staff, it's against the charter," continued Manager Kirby.

"I didn't direct, I asked questions according to section 2:1 of the charter," replied Rose. "Mr. Rose you have given orders to people in the city on how to carry out their duties," continued Kirby. Ward 2 councilman Helder Cunha asked Kirby to elaborate on the intimidation charges Kirby had made. "I think the reason we're here is to intimidate me," Kirby told the council. "Time and time again I received phone calls from you (Rose) about getting involved with staff," said Kirby. Rose didn't say much else other than to say that he was only asking questions, not giving orders.

The Waterbury matter, while taking a turn in favor of the embattled HR Director, may continue on in Court should the City decide to appeal further.

Elections Set to Go:

City Council At-Large candidate James Briden will run unopposed as a one time opponent, Bruce Rogers, is now running for the Ward 2 council seat. Incumbent Ward 1 councilman, Robert Britto is also running unopposed as announced candidates did not come forward with required signatures.

In the Ward 2 City Council race, former Mayor Bruce Rogers will face Anna Sousa and in Ward 3, Candy Seel will oppose former councilman Joseph Botelho. Current Ward 3 member Tom Rose is not seeking reelection.

Incumbent Ward 4 Councilman Tim Conley will face newcomer Brian Faria for that council seat.

The School Committee will feature an at-large seat race with Incumbent member Joel Monteiro facing a challenge from former committee and council member, Chrissy Rossi. Monteiro and Rossi are both veteran politicians which may prove to be one of the City's most spirited campaigns.

The Ward 4 School Committee seat also has a race with incumbent member Jessica Beauchaine facing a challenge from newcomers Chris Dias and Nicholas Williams.

Ward 1 incumbent, Chairman Charlie Tsonos, Ward 2 Incumbent Tony Ferreira and Ward 3 Incumbent Nathan Cahoon are all unopposed for school board reelection.

In state house elections, Senators Bill Conley and Dan DaPonte are unopposed as well as Representatives Gregg Amore and Joy Hearn. Current Ward 2 Councilman Heldger Cunha will oppose former councilman and State rep. Brian Coogan for the House seat being vacated by long time Representative Helio Melo.

Incumbent Representative Katherine Kazarian will face a challenge from Chris Holland.

Ward 4 Council Press Releases:

Tim Conley statement:
Incumbent Ward 4 councilman, Tim Conley is seeking reelection. He has posted a statement: "It has been an honor to serve the City of East Providence for the past 3.5 years as the Vice Chair of the East Providence School Committee and as the Ward 4 Representative to the East Providence City Council. I would be honored and very appreciative if the residents of Riverside allowed me to continue to serve as their representative on the East Providence City Council.
Every election represents a choice and I look forward over the course of this campaign to talk about the progress that has been made over the past two years. I will never over-promise anything but I will give honest assessments on our choices and opportunities.

My desire to serve as a member of the East Providence City Council remains to encourage creativity, promote business and economic development, enhance the quality of our neighborhoods, and improve the educational quality of our schools.

Over the course of the coming months I look forward to the opportunity to meet with the residents of Riverside to hear their perspectives on the future of our city. Once again - as always - thank you for your time, consideration and support."

Brian Faria, candidate for the Ward 4 City Council seat has released a campaign statement in which he outlines his reasons for seeking elective office: “We are running an aggressive grassroots campaign throughout Ward 4 to insure that all voices are heard, as you are the crucial elements that make up this ward. Our first goal is to put the power back into the hands of the people and not leave it in the hands of the career politicians.

I am running simply because I have a sincere interest in my community and I refuse to sit idly by, feeling hopeless and helpless while I watch residents losing their homes or just selling because they can no longer afford to live here. We have too much useful strength to give up on our beautiful city.
I am not a politician, although I have been around politics my entire life. In fact, my father is currently Chairman Our City Democratic Committee. I've seen all the inner workings. The only endorsement I am seeking is the one of the people. You are the majority and together we cannot lose. I am a husband, a father, and I am one of you. My allegiances have been, and will remain with you and for you.

Obviously, when things are not working, they need to change. We are climbing to be the highest tax rate in the state while our level of city government is plummeting. The people are making it clear that they have had enough!

I have always excelled in problem solving and working alongside others. When elected, I will work aggressively and effectually along with both city and state government. We will also unite our ward with the rest of city. We will see progress while supporting each other positively. “I am not looking to run everything, I just will not be ran by the obvious factions that are controlling this ward.” I will simply be the “voice of the people.

We are so grateful and humbled by your continued overwhelming support. Our strength and determination united with your support will win this race and will ultimately put the power back into the hands of the people where it belongs!"

Crescent Park Carousel Closed for Repairs:

As chronicled by The Reporter on several previous occasions, the main bearing problem with the Looff Carousel must finally be resolved. The near 120 year old main mechanical infrastructure is indeed in need of repair. The Carousel commission has posted this notice: "Currently, the Crescent Park Carousel is closed for repairs. The Carousel will undergo repairs to the center bearing, an intricate piece that helps to keep the ride balanced. Over the last couple of months under the watchful eye of Ed Serowik Sr. longtime caretaker, adjustments have been made in hopes to keep the ride operational for the 2016 season, with repairs to be made over the winter. The adjustments are not holding and although not an easy decision, closing and making the necessary repairs is the right thing to do. We must protect the integrity of the ride and preserve the carousel for future generations."

One of the constants at Crescent Park has been Edward Serowik of Riverside. Serowik has worked at the park since 1948. He has worked on the Carousel since he was a young teenager growing up in Riverside and remains confident that it will be back in business soon for another year of summer fun. "Since I was 12 to 14 years old I worked at the park setting pins at the bowling alley and other odd jobs. At 15, I was working on the Merry-Go-Round. I was the last hire of Mr. Looffs's daughter," said Serowik during a recent interview with The Reporter during a behind the scenes tour of the carousel. "After high school I continued to work at the park. I became ride supervisor and head of maintenance for the entire park." Many in the city are glad Serowik, at 79, is still around to help.

The time has come for Serowik and others to get much needed outside expert help with this national treasure and the Carousel Commission is accepting donations to help with restoration:

"The Carousel needs your support! We are currently closed for restoration of the Center Bearing, the cost of this repair is $29,000. This is considered an emergency repair as the Carousel cannot operate in its current condition without causing further damage. All monies raised through a Go Fund Me Campaign will be utilized to cover the $29,000 Center Bearing Restoration Project set to begin on July 19, 2016. Any additional funding will go straight to restoring our beautiful horses!" Contact the commission to help with donations.