City Council and Mayor Avoid Projects Veto Vote
After a brewing controversy between Mayor Bob DaSilva and a split City Council over a disagreement on FY 25 capital spending, an agreement appears to have been reached last month. In October a divided council voted 3-2 to transfer $3 million from the mayor’s proposal to purchase a new tower fire truck and other public works vehicles and equipment. Instead, the council earmarked the $3 million be used for future and some current school building needs. Council members Ward One Frank Rego, Ward Two Anna Sousa and Ward Four Rick Lawson voted to defer this funding. Council President Bob Rodericks and Ward Three member Frank Fogarty opposed the move. Rodericks argued that the move was unnecessary and would delay the purchase of much needed municipal infrastructure. “This isn’t either or. We can replace our 29-year-old high lift ladder fire truck and an overused rescue vehicle as well as needed DPW vehicles. Due to the unused high school bond issue dollars, we can also provide those dollars for school needs. All of this is done with capital funds and bond dollars and has no real impact on budget or the tax rate,” maintained Rodericks. “A win-win for our city.” Fogarty agreed but the council voted anyway against this reasoning. “I want to assure the school department that we will maintain their buildings for our students,” said Rick Lawson. “I can reconsider if that bond money comes available,” Lawson added. Despite Rodericks urging that the $3M bond money is available for schools and is being legally processed, three members wouldn’t agree. “I’m a member of the school bonding committee. It’s a done deal. The new high school was built on time and under budget due to excellent oversight. Again, we can do all of this to the benefit of our city,” Rodericks insisted. Answering the council vote to divert the funding, Mayor DaSilva issued a veto as is his right under the City Charter. It would take four members of the council to vote on over-riding the veto and maintain their original vote.
Rodericks continued to work with particulars to avoid “this unnecessary action.” Rodericks and Lawson met with Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sandra Forand and school finance director Craig Enos. The group discussed school building needs and the fact that the high school bond money is available. “I just want to assure that needed school projects like a roof on Oldham (Meadowcrest building) is replaced and also security systems, etc.” insisted Lawson. Once details were confirmed, the council was set to revisit their prior vote to divert the funds. Fire Chief Michael Carey strongly recommended the purchase of fire vehicles. “Our 29 year old tower truck is near the end of life and a rescue unit has over 130,000 miles on it. These trucks take a beating and even when new ones are ordered, it can take up to two years to receive one,” he cautioned.
To reverse their earlier vote, one of the three approving council members would have to make the motion to do so. Councilman Frank Rego made the motion to re-allocate funding to the original mayoral plan. “If we want to bring young families here, we must provide the best education we can. My (earlier) intent was to assure that the schools got their money,” he said. Seeming to answer some critics of the first council vote, Rego further stated: “I was not anti-fire truck, rescue, or DPW. Those who have said that, shame on them,” Rego added.
The vote to reverse passed unanimously. The council and Mayor avoided the veto controversary and the mood of the second council meeting in November was noticeably more positive. The council passed an ordinance which would designate the $3,292,562 high school bond surplus for school capital infrastructure and cannot be used for non-school municipal needs. As Rodericks continuously stressed, “currently the surplus bond money collects zero interest dollars. Once transferred to this special account it will immediately accrue interest. Interest on over $3M will be significant and can only help to build the account.” Lawson added that “The school leaders know their capital needs. This fund is outside of the school budget and we can keep growing it,” he said.
ExxonMobil Property Sold
A long-rumored sale of expansive Mobil/Exxon property in East Providence, sold for $26.8 million was announced in a November press release from the company. “Global Partners LP (NYSE:GLP) (“Global” or the “Partnership”) announced (November 1st) that it has successfully completed the acquisition of a liquid energy terminal in East Providence, Rhode Island from the ExxonMobil Oil Corporation.”
“The East Providence terminal, featuring 10 product tanks with 959,730-barrel shell capacity, serves as a strategic storage facility for various products, including gasoline, additives, distillates, and ethanol. It includes a six-bay truck rack servicing the Rhode Island, Northern Connecticut, and Southern Massachusetts markets, as well as a large dock with capabilities to accommodate long- range vessels. “The acquisition of the East Providence terminal aligns perfectly with our strategic goals,” said Eric Slifka, President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Partners LP.
The addition of gasoline infrastructure through this transaction will enable Global to optimize its large, active marketing and retail presence in the area. In addition to the terminal, Global will acquire surplus vacant real estate parcels providing long-term opportunities for alternative uses as market dynamics evolve. Slifka continued, “The additional operational capabilities and supply optionality, along with the potential for real estate development, further deliver our commitment to strategic growth by diversifying our portfolio and capitalizing on assets that leverage our integrated network.”
The new owners have initially signaled their intent to keep the Silver Spring 6-hole golf course in operation. “We understand the importance of this to the community and hope it is intact for many years,” said company spokespersons. It remains to be seen if Global intends to seek any changes in plans for the property.
Myrtle Venue Entertainment license is Renewed
The popular Myrtle music and bar venue on Waterman Avenue received its entertainment license renewal after a period of uncertainty based on a few abutting neighbors’ complaints on patron behavior and parking issues. Initial concerns were raised at its November 10th meeting by Ward Two councilwoman Anna Sousa who questioned the ability of Myrtle owners to control noise levels and parking that made it difficult for neighbors. The entertainment license was tabled until a special community type meeting was held on November 19th. At the second meeting, the council chamber was near standing room only as Myrtle supporters gathered to voice their opinion. While no one spoke against the license renewal, speaker after speaker lined up to extol the benefits of such “a unique venue” that helps the arts and music environment in East Providence and the region. Several speakers were from outside of the city but many who spoke in favor were also East Providence residents. “I accept there is some noise because I live in a city and not a little rural town,” said Ivy Street resident Glen Wurz. “Waterman is a busy street day and night. Trucks come and go, etc. It can be a normal event to have some noise.”
Speakers told the council that the venue does not cater to very young people and usually focuses on folk type music and well-behaved crowds. The Myrtle management explained the efforts they make to ask patrons to avoid parking on side streets and that they constantly measure music noise levels with sound meters. “I’ve talked to the police chief and he will convene a community meeting with interested parties to work this out,” said council president Bob Rodericks. The police have received some calls regarding noise, etc. but have made no arrests or observed any serious problems.
“This was never to discuss revoking Myrtle’s license,” said councilwoman Anna Sousa. “This was about addressing neighbors’ concerns and coming to a viable solution. When these issues arise, it is my due to work these out.” The council voted unanimously to renew the license to the delight of the large audience.
Riverside Area to get much needed Cell Tower
The council voted unanimously to approve a city contract with Towerco VI, LLC to install a cell phone tower in a wooded corner of Grassy Plains Park. The tower will take the shape of a tree and will increase the quality of reception in the area which has been noted for some dead spots. The tower will not cost the city anything and will actually provide revenue. The contract also provides that the company will provide a payment of $96,000 to pave an entry way and small parking lot. The city will receive a monthly lease payment of $2,000 and will increase by 2% each year. “This is positive and will not be an eyesore. It will increase cell service and provide some passive income. Anyone with concerns please reach out to me,” said Ward Four councilman Rick Lawson.
Closed Nursing Home on Wampanoag Trail Moves Ahead
A long closed and now unkempt former nursing home at 100 Wampanoag Trail has received substantial approval from the city Planning Board late last month for its proposed 26-unit apartment building. The closed building has united abutting and area neighbors’ with concerns of the new owner’s development plan. The original proposal which would have added a third story and 44 apartment units with significant variance approvals, was withdrawn by the developer after strong opposition. The new plan does not request any variances or changes in the footprint of the building or exterior structure and will have 26 apartments now.
The November 20th meeting had over two hours of discussion and testimony from residents and particulars in the process. The board was unanimous in its decision to approve the project but did list several mandatory conditions. “The building is dilapidated, and has been broken into. It’s an eyesore and a total mess,” said proposal architect David Sisson. “Our plan is to turn it into something new and pleasing to look at. We will improve plantings, the parking lot and more. It will be much improved from the empty mess that sits there today.”
Several neighbors spoke about concerns with noise from more people driving to and from apartments as opposed to a nursing home. Speakers also asked about lighting and tree removal and drainage issues. The developer, Touchdown Realty, through their attorneys and architects explained that trees in question were remaining and lighting would be shielded away from neighbors properties. Some neighbors hired their own attorney after they were upset with Touchdown Realty comments made at a previously held raucous community meeting. “We were motivated to hire an attorney due to some alarming interactions he (owner) had with neighbors.”
The apartment development is allowed under new state adaptive reuse laws that would allow a former nursing home to be converted to housing as long as normal variance regulations are met.
City Hires New Assistant Solicitor
Mayor Bob DaSilva has recommended and received City Council confirmation of hiring a new city solicitor to replace Dylan Conley who left the position. The City has hired Joel Votolato, as its new Assistant City Solicitor. Votolato will be responsible for drafting and reviewing legal documents, advising municipal officials and representing the city’s interests in a variety of legal issues. Votolato is a partner at Gannon Bailey & Votolato. As an Equity Partner, Votolato does general practice with a focus on corporate law, banking and financial law, as well as real estate transactions and litigation, land use, civil litigation and estate planning and probate.
Additionally, Votolato serves as an outside corporate counsel for major local credit unions handling all manners of legal issues from contract negotiations, document review, municipal land use, construction and development support, as well as representation before local, state and federal courts, boards and agendas. Prior to his time at Gannon Bailey & Votolato, he served as Special Counsel to the Pawtucket City Council, providing legal advice, opinions and support on a multitude of municipal issues independent of the City Solicitor, working closely with the City’s Council President and other members of the Council to provide legal counsel on various special projects. In his free time, Votolato stays active. He is a former member of the Board of Directors for Children’s Wishes and Children’s Shelter of Blackstone Valley. He is also the former President of the Board of Trustees for the Louisquisset Country Club & Condominium Association. Votolato also has a passion for lacrosse, coaching at Smithfield High School from 2016 through 2019. Votolato received unanimous consent of the council.
New City Finance Director Hired
Mayor Bob DaSilva has announced that the City of East Providence has hired Glenda Delgado, as its new Director of Finance. Delgado will replace long time director, Malcolm Moore. Delgado will be responsible for overseeing the city’s Finance department while managing, coordinating and supporting finances throughout the city. Before joining the City of East Providence, Delgado served as the controller for EMCAP Lending where she was responsible for all accounting and finance functions including month-end procedures of asset-based financing portfolio worth upwards of $35 million. In addition, Delgado consolidated annual GAAP audio, investor K-1’s, annual tax returns of EMCAP and its subsidiaries while also preparing annual 1099s and 1098s. Delgado also managed a $100 million line of credit facility with Goldman Sachs under a master repurchase agreement and deposit account control agreements.
Prior to her time at EMCAP, Delgado served as Assistant Controller for Rhode Island Housing where she oversaw Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Housing Choice Voucher Programs (HCVP), along with other state and federal grants.
“Right now, there are a lot of positive things happening in our city,” Mayor Bob DaSilva said. “Ms. Delgado brings more than two decades of expertise in both public and private accounting sectors, financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting and leadership.
“Ms. Delgado’s extensive background in finance and history of reorganizing, streamlining and strengthening financial reporting make her an asset to this administration and City,” DaSilva added.
City Council Hires City Clerk
The East Providence City Council recently appointed Andreza (Andy) Skipworth, to serve as the City Clerk. As the City Clerk, Skipworth is responsible for the management of formal procedures of the council, ensuring compliance with state laws related to official documents, vital records, and the RI Open Meetings Act. As the Supervisor of the Office of the City Clerk, Skipworth oversees municipal services to the public, including land evidence records and deeds, registry of vital statistics, licenses and permits as well as Municipal Court.
Before joining the City of East Providence, Andy served as an Administrative Assistant at RIH Rehabilitation Services before transferring to Lifespan School Solutions. Skipworth assisted the Clinical Director with day-to-day functions of the Department. Prior to her time at Lifespan, Skipworth served as Administrative Assistant for the RI Board of Elections where she oversaw Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable, Purchasing and Payroll, as well as the liaison between the Board of Elections Executive Director, Board of Commissioners and other state departments.
Skipworth with 36 years of office management, attended CCRI, taking courses in accounting and business management. Recently she ended her 15-year run as President of her own golf league. Skipworth is also a former RIFFA – Archery secretary and Vice President, where she was in charge of Event Planning and an Officiant. Her appointment in East Providence was unanimous.
Federal Delegation Highlights Drug Cost Concerns
U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and Congressmen Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo visited East Providence and the PACE Organization of Rhode Island to highlight additional prescription drug savings on the way for Rhode Island seniors thanks to Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act. The delegation also encouraged seniors to maximize their savings by taking advantage of the Medicare open enrollment period, which runs through December 7.
“Prescription drugs are too expensive and for years American taxpayers and seniors were being unfairly overcharged. We passed the Inflation Reduction Act so Medicare could negotiate lower prices for life-saving medications. We are finally starting to see out-of-pocket costs being capped. And with more savings on the way, consumers can’t afford to have the rug ripped out from under them by Big Pharma and their allies who want to undo progress and put profits over people,” said Reed. “I will continue working to raise awareness about Medicare open enrollment and help people afford their prescription medications. There are a host of resources available to help Rhode Islanders shop and compare and find a plan that best meets their needs. And soon, millions of Americans on Medicare will save even more at the pharmacy counter as the government uses its bulk purchasing power to help negotiate lower prices.”
“Democrats’ Inflation Reduction Act made major progress lowering health care and prescription drug costs for seniors,” said Whitehouse, who has long championed cost-lowering measures like allowing Medicare to negotiate drug prices. “The savings from our law really ramp up next year for seniors on Medicare Part D, which will be welcome news to Rhode Islanders living on fixed incomes.”
“In the wealthiest nation in the world, no senior should have to ration medication and forgo treatment because they can’t afford to pay for health care and lifesaving prescription drugs,” said Magaziner. “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act passed by Congressional Democrats, seniors on Medicare Part D will save thousands of dollars on out-of-pocket costs for health care and prescriptions drugs, and we will continue working to expand Medicare drug price negotiation and lower costs for Rhode Islanders.”
In 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act will cap out-of-pocket costs for some Medicare Part D beneficiaries at $2,000, resulting in $23 million in expected savings for 68,000 Rhode Islanders. This year, the law’s changes to Medicare’s prescription drug benefits capped out-of-pocket costs at approximately $3,500, saving 57,000 Medicare Part D enrollees in Rhode Island about $11 million.
“I want to thank RI’s congressional delegation for their continued fight for our senior population,” said East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva. “These prescription drug savings that are on the way for Rhode Islanders will have a positive impact on the livelihoods of our senior population throughout the city and state.”
The 2025 Medicare open enrollment period runs through December 7. During open enrollment, seniors on Medicare can compare coverage options, like Traditional Medicare and Medicare Advantage, choose health and drug plans for 2025, and see how the Inflation Reduction Act is already helping them save money on health care costs. Seniors looking to compare plans should visit Medicare.gov. Whitehouse’s constituent services staff is available to help answer seniors’ questions at (401) 453-5294 or at whitehouse.senate.gov. Over 230,000 Rhode Islanders are currently enrolled in Medicare.
Local Artist Has Roger Williams Portrait in State House
Secretary of State Gregg Amore and local artist Jennifer Gillooly Cahoon unveiled her portrait of Roger Williams in the State Library last month. It features his writings, signature, and compass. East Providence artist Cahoon was commissioned to produce the portrait. Visitors can view the portrait in the State Library.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here