With early voting starting Oct. 19, the Beacon has started running candidate forums. Today, we feature City Council candidates. We asked candidates to provide a brief bio or self introduction …
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With early voting starting Oct. 19, the Beacon has started running candidate forums. Today, we feature City Council candidates. We asked candidates to provide a brief bio or self introduction followed by answering a series of questions relating to the city overall and their wards.
This year, only two out the city’s nine council members face challenges. In Ward 1, Patrick Maloney is running against William Foley as an independent. Maloney has not spent any money on his campaign, nor does he plan to. He still grieves the loss of his wife, Susan, to dementia and, as you will notice, we are running a picture of the two of them at his request. Also, you will see from his self introduction he has served in public office and run for other municipal posts.
A more heated contest is shaping up in Ward 4 where incumbent James McElroy is in a three-way contest. He faces Republican Ryan Kelly, a financial consultant who grew up almost across the street from the house he owns on Parkhurst Road in the Hoxsie section of Warwick. He answered only one question on the questionnaire and did not attend the Conimicut Village Association meet the candidates event held Tuesday night at Woodbury Union Church. Kelly explained he had a conflict and had to drive his girlfriend to Massachusetts. If you don’t see a Kelly sign on his lawn in addition to Ashley Kalus for governor and Marie Hopkins for Representative District 21 signs it’s because they haven’t arrived yet.
Kelly believes the City Council should at least have one Republican member and that he’s the man to do it.
The fight for Ward 4 is shaping up between Michael Penta, running as an independent, and McElroy looking for another term.
This is Penta’s third run for the council seat. In his first bid he ran as a Republican, losing to the late Joseph Solomon in 2012. In 2016 he challenged Rep. Camille Vella-Wilkinson in a three-way contest for Representative District 21 and in 2018 he ran as an independent in Ward 4 losing by 176 votes to McElroy.
McElroy, who introduced legislation for term limits for the mayor and council that is on the ballot this year, has emphasized his support of the Conimicut Village Association request to build a gazebo at Conimicut Point with the $200,000 in ARPA federal funds Mayor Picozzi is targeting to go to each ward.
You may ask, what is the point of including seven candidates without opponents in this questionnaire since they are assured of reelection?
The answer: we thought voters should know where their elected representatives stand. And besides, we wanted them to have the opportunity to connect with constituents.
Public service is part of my family, and I’m very proud of how we’ve contributed in different ways. My father was a Pawtucket firefighter. My wife, Martha, worked with special education students in Warwick before working in Social Services; our daughter, Kim, is employed at Milton Academy; our son, Mike, is a lieutenant on the Providence Fire Department; and our son, Greg, is a former Army Ranger. I was a teacher for 40 years, also serving as Union President. Twenty years ago, I served as the Ward 6 Councilor.
As the current Ward 1 Councilor, I have taken seriously the responsibility of serving my ward. While campaigning two years ago, I vowed to be responsive and an efficient, effective public servant. I have prioritized responding to concerns in a timely manner, holding myself accountable to providing the best possible solutions and following up on outcomes. I have met with community groups, discussing their concerns, and assisting them in navigating through the city departments. I am always transparent with my constituents, informing them that, after doing my due diligence, I will provide an honest answer to their concerns, even if it is not the answer they hoped to receive.
As promised, I voted for no tax increase for two years. Additionally, I authored a resolution requesting the state government to earmark a percentage of its lottery revenue to alleviate property taxes in future years. As a member of the Finance Committee, I guided fiscally responsible budgets while also voting for increased spending for schools.
I consistently advocated for a reduction in the Phase 3 sewer assessment. In the end, the assessment was reduced by one-third, moving that phase forward with equitable treatment of residents by the Sewer Authority.
I addressed the concern of speeding in Pawtuxet Village, Governor Francis Farms, and other areas of the ward. I voted to streamline a paving program to facilitate improved city infrastructure for residents.
I sponsored and collaborated on various community events and supported improvements to the community gem that is Salter Grove.
When re-elected, I will:
I see public service as a call to duty and will serve proactively on the City Council making Ward 1 and the city of Warwick the best place in Rhode Island to live, work and raise a family.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I believe that our high schools need to be replaced. However, I do feel that a single high school was not fully investigated from the onset. I do believe that replacing the schools is the best solution at this point. RIDE is requiring the updates, providing up to 52% reimbursement for a limited time. If we do not take advantage of this now, we will still be required to make repairs and updates to the existing schools but will not be reimbursed by RIDE.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
Yes, I do support these term limits because it gives elected officials time to address issues that they are concerned about but also allows for fresh ideas to be heard from others who are interested in serving the city.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
A number of proposals have already been submitted to me from Ward One constituents; most are regarding playgrounds and sports facilities. I am reaching out to those who have provided ideas to ascertain more specifics. I support this because it is a constituent-driven initiative..
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
In my opinion, Mayor Picozzi has done a commendable job during his first term. He has continuously reached out to the council and we have developed a team approach to moving Warwick issues forward. I believe that effective communication has been key to working together.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
No, I would not support legislation requiring a health insurance co-pay from all retired municipal employees. This and other benefits are part of the collective bargaining process and should remain as such. Items such as these are part of the give-and-take of negotiations. In the past, the unions have given up other items to retain these benefits. It is inappropriate and against current law to try to circumvent the collective bargaining agreement.
Over the course of the last 10 years, I have run for office multiple times. I served for four years on the School Committee and during my time in office we stayed within our budget and had no increases in funding. In fact, the schools budget was decreased by $6.5 million.
The reason I ran for office is because I had three children in our schools and my wife and I were concerned with the way the schools were being managed. Most of you may know me through my wife Susan Maloney. She was diagnosed with dementia in 2015. My children and I took care of her at home for seven years while she fought valiantly against her disease. I am blessed to have been with her nearly 35 years. Susan was a school parent volunteer and active community member. I also volunteered to run after school programs with her and I was a PTA President before serving on the School Committee. I was also a Warwick Firefighter soccer coach. We were married in 1993 while I served in the U.S. Army. My life has always been about service. My wife and children are my biggest inspirations. I work hard and want to make Warwick a better place for everyone. I want Warwick and RI to be a place my kids can raise a family and not have to encourage them to leave to go to a place they can afford to live. Finally, I am a small business owner and have had a business in Governor Francis Plaza for over 10 years. I know how difficult it is for businesses to survive, especially after Covid.
The most critical issue facing Warwick is our dwindling tax base and our need to fix and maintain our infrastructure. We have crumbling schools, roads, and sewers. The roads near the library literally crumbled and many businesses and residents suffered. We can’t put things off longer and need a continuous maintenance plan in place to include a financial plan that forecasts 5 years into the future. We need transparency.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I would love to support the plan for the new buildings, but I don’t believe the numbers the schools and city are presenting are accurate. I do want to take advantage of State and Federal funding that could be available to give our students new buildings. I also know that a new building doesn’t necessarily mean better education. Classical HS in Providence and Hendricken High Schools are older than Warwick schools and their students have been shown to have a better outcome after graduation. I would like to see accurate numbers and know what other plans are in place prior to approving a $350 million bond. Ultimately, the voters should decide.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I am a supporter of term limits for all politicians. We need to hold people accountable. I would support a term limit of eight years for the mayor regardless of the number of years between elections. I believe the City Council members should also have a term limit of eight years.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
Mayor Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in Federal funding to council members. I don’t trust the council to put the money toward projects for their wards without self-aggrandizing. If the mayor really wants to give each ward money for a project, the city councilors should have to submit a proposal to be voted on by the entire council and approved by the mayor before releasing money. Personally, I would rather have the mayor not give the money and keep it in a fund for seniors and struggling residents who may have issues staying in their houses after utility increases in water, oil, and electricity this year.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
My grade for Mayor Picozzi overall as a new Mayor who took office during the crisis of the pandemic I would give him a passing grade. No one is perfect but I know he works hard and cares. The mayor is also very responsive to questions and concerns. I am glad he is independent and puts people before political parties. I am also running as an independent and will be responsive to all regardless of political party.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I believe the schools have a much better system for healthcare compared to the city. The schools have many more active and retired employees and their costs are much lower. If the retired employees were to pay a co-pay we should look at lowering other costs for retired people to offset the cost. I think we should lower the amount of taxes on pensions. If more retirees stayed in Warwick and RI they would spend their pension here generating revenue. The fact we have an income tax on the pension while other states don’t means that we are paying money out and getting nothing in return. We can’t ask for something and give nothing in return.
Jeremey Rix is a product of Warwick Public Schools – having attended his educational journey at Norwood, Aldrich and Pilgrim. Rix went on to obtain a B.A. from Rhode Island College and graduated cum laude in 2011. He has student taught at Toll Gate High School and became certified as a teacher in Secondary Education History also in 2011. A lifelong learner, Rix went for his J.D. and graduated magna cum laude from Roger Williams University in 2015; he was ranked eight out of 129 and became licensed to practice law in RI and MA in 2015.
Rix founded his own firm in 2018, representing clients in workers’ compensation and landlord-tenant matters after a one-year term Judicial Clerkship at the RI Workers’ Compensation Court and two years working for one of the 10 largest firms in the nation.
Rix is also a member of the Norwood Neighborhood Association Leadership Committee He has spent six years in office, including four years as Chair of the City Council Committee on “Land Use, Public Property, and Community Affairs.”
Rix believes the most critical issue facing the City is that Warwick wants it all: Excellent schools and City services with reasonable taxes. “We must address unfunded long-term liabilities and tax equity or we’ll move in the wrong direction on all of the above,” said Rix.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
Yes. Pilgrim HS in particular was poorly constructed when it was new and has gone downhill fast these last 60 years. Major repairs or renovations are just throwing good money after bad while depriving ourselves of an approx. 50 percent match from the State.
Consequences of inaction are far worse than sticker shock. Some say “we can’t afford it,” but, can we afford to wait until Pilgrim is condemned or fails accreditation? That is a matter of “when,” not “if.” If we allow Pilgrim to fail, Warwick would likely be forced to send 1,000+ students to other school districts, with money following the students. Allowing Pilgrim to fail and busing off our students to a half dozen other school systems would cost Warwick more per year than a bond to rebuild it! And then we’d still have to replace Pilgrim, likely at a lower State reimbursement rate and even higher costs.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
No. (1) It is a formula for corruption; (2) limits voter’s choices; and (3) weakens the City Council’s institutional knowledge. I’ve gone into more detail at City Council meetings and will write a Letter to the Editor with more details before the election.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I’m looking forward to seeing many proposals to benefit each neighborhood of Lakewood, Norwood, and Pilgrim. My focus is on the process: involving the public in an open and deliberate process will identify many priorities across each neighborhood and the most effective uses.
I plan to distribute fliers across each neighborhood in spring 2023 to invite neighbors to meetings to discuss and vote on priorities. The City has a form on its website for people to submit ideas, and, anyone can call or email me to talk about potential ideas. There are many exciting possibilities, from recreation to neighborhood beautification of public spaces. A little money can go a long way: I’d love to see many ideas for each neighborhood!
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
After working with three different Mayors, I’ve seen the City Council often act more like an Advisory Board than the Legislative Branch. Warwick is very different from Cranston and Providence in that way. In most ways that matter, Warwick’s School Committee has more formal powers than the Council. I usually get information on what’s happening in the City from constituents and the news. I won’t pretend that I am in any position to assign a grade to the Mayor. If I were, it may be too early to do so.
Great challenges are coming once the Tax Revaluation takes effect in summer 2023 and once the federal ARPA funds run out. How will we balance the budget while also taking steps to protect the most vulnerable from double-digit tax hikes that will likely result from the Tax Reval? As Chair of the Tax Relief Commission, we will be resuming meetings to try to address the worst impacts of the Tax Reval in early 2023.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
Continuing co-pays for retirees are one way to make a big dent in a 9-figure virtually-unfunded liability that is growing by eight figures every year. Like every reform, it must begin with the collective bargaining process. Unfortunately, I have had to vote against ratifying each of the most recent contracts with the CBUs because I refuse to support new contracts that do not take significant steps towards reducing unfunded long-term liabilities. Warwick’s employees have the most at stake if we run out of money. If we cannot fund our long-term liabilities, the reckoning will be painful for the City but catastrophic for retirees.
Timothy Howe is the chairman of the Finance Committee and Health, Education and Welfare Committee and member of the Economic Development Committee. His past and current professional experience includes being a teacher of secondary education, president of the Rhode Island Military Organization, Human Resources Director for Kohl’s Corporation and member of the U.S. Army, Infantry NCO 1988-1998. Some of his professional associations include the Water of Life Round-table of Educational Professionals and founding member of the U.S. Army Museum. He is "for a Positive & Productive Warwick."
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
Yes, I support the bond and giving the citizens the opportunity to vote on it. We are spending millions on bandaids for the current buildings. We are also spending hundreds of thousands in heating/cooling costs. New facilities will save us millions in operational costs and give our students real 21st Century education to include Vocational technology.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I do support extending the Mayor's term to four years with a two term limit. I support keeping council terms at two years and voted against extending those terms to four years.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I am seeking to increase pedestrian safety on Sandy Lane and Main Avenue with enriched visual crosswalks. I also support the environmental Protections/improvements requested by the Defenders of Sand Pond.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
The day after the 2020 election, I reached out to, congratulated and requested a meeting with then Mayor-elect Picozzi. The Saturday after the election, I met Frank Picozzi for the first time in his garage. He, of course, was preparing for his Christmas lights display benefiting the Tomorrow Fund as we spoke. In no time, I had a handful of extension cords and lights as he organized his inventory. In his garage, we both demonstrated a desire to leave politics aside and serve our city. Mayor Picozzi and council President McAllister have a very open line of communication and clear understanding of mission needs. I admire and appreciate both these servants who put service above self for the betterment of the city.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
No. That is a collective bargaining issue. I will note, part time council members are eligible for pension and full healthcare. I refused both. The most vocal active council members against healthcare. Are enrolled in city-funded healthcare. The loudest voice against city retiree healthcare and pension, currently enjoys both since leaving the council in 2021.
I currently am a financial consultant, and I have been one for eight years now. Before that, I held a few different positions building applications/systems at MetLife, CVS and Citizens Bank. I am new to running for office, although I was raised in Ward 4 for 20 years, moved away, and now I came back as of three years ago when I purchased my house.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
I think the mayor has done an amazing job in office, he's a go getter, he speaks with the public, and doesn't hide behind the mayor's office or his staff. It would be an honor to work with him on all of issues relating to Warwick, not just Ward 4.
Editor’s Note: Kelly did not the remaining questions on the questionnaire. He chose not to submit a photo.
I received a BSBA from Bryant University, an MA from Rhode Island College and a JD from the University of Massachusetts School of Law. I retired after over 35 years of service to the Rhode Island Supreme Court and the Office of Legislative Council of the Rhode Island General Assembly.
I have been a resident and taxpayer in Warwick for over 40 years and am married to Charlee McElroy. I have four children (Treva McElroy, Kelly McElroy, Jaimee McElroy Diggins and Sean McElroy) along with 10 grandchildren.
I am also a parishioner of St. Timothy's Church and am a member of several organizations including the Conimicut Village Association, American Legion William Shields Post #43 and Knights of Columbus. I am also a former coach of Warwick National Little League Baseball and the Warwick Junior Hockey Association.
This is my 4th year on the Warwick City Council and I see municipal finances as the most critical issue facing the city and its residents. I am pleased to say that this year’s municipal budget was the third consecutive budget passed without a tax increase. I will continue to insist on responsible government.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I do support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools. The state will reimburse the city for around 50% of the cost up to the estimated $350 million and new schools will raise up Warwick's image and desirability. This will raise up city property values. Both schools have outlasted their life expectancies and will need costly renovations if the new schools are not built. The choice between getting two new schools for the price of one versus costly renovations for outdated schools is an easy one for me. The city, however, would not issue these bonds if costs to build the schools or other circumstances changed in a way that makes it unfeasible to go forward. Mayor Picozzi and this city council take our fiscal responsibilities seriously and the citizens of Warwick should take comfort in that.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I do support 4-year terms for the mayor with a limit of two consecutive four year terms and a limit of six consecutive two year terms for city council members.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. There are many desirable projects for Ward 4 but unfortunately there is not enough money for all of them. My two main priorities are to replace the dangerous basketball court at Hoxsie School and to have a gazebo built at Conimicut Point Park. The Hoxsie School principal and PTO have advocated strenuously for the basketball court. The entire Conimicut Village Association and its President, Ginny Barham, have brought life to all of Conimicut. They had a list of several worthwhile projects with the gazebo being their first priority. I also spoke with Bev Wiley, the Director of Parks and Recreation, and she also advocated for the gazebo.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
I would grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance as excellent. He works very well with Council President McAllister and the whole council. He has done an outstanding job during adverse times.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I believe all retired municipal employees should have a co-pay for city health insurance. I believe this issue should be addressed in all collective bargaining agreements.
Michael Penta, 56, resides at 30 Dayton Ave Warwick, RI 02889 and has been the owner of MC Renovations Inc. for 30 years. He is also the co-owner of Gels Kitchen Inc. in West Warwick (11 years) and Warwick (three years). He has 12 years of education and has lived in Warwick for 46 years.
Penta is an active member of the Warwick Planning board member and has spent one and a half years on the board. He was a past Warwick Rotary Member for approximately six years and is very active with helping to raise funds for non-profits and individuals that help support homelessness, food, medical needs, fire victims and more.
One of his big concerns in Warwick is the shrinking of small businesses and the empty commercial locations. As a small business owner of three businesses, Penta will focus on working with the mayor and the council to bring in small businesses and fill the empty locations bringing local employment to our city. He will also work effortlessly to make sure tax dollars are invested into infrastructure, such as our roads, fire, police, municipal fleet of vehicles and our school buildings. He will always be responsive to the constituents of Warwick. He finds it to be extremely important to keep our community involved and hear what they have to say. They are the tax payers of this city and deserve to be heard. Questions for Mike Penta can be directed to 401-735-1555.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I am not opposed to new high schools. However, I am very concerned for the taxpayers at the present time that this would even be enough money to complete the projects. After moving through this horrific pandemic with challenges we are facing, high cost of living and materials, electric hikes, businesses lacking employees, house reevaluations, and next year’s city budget. I feel (even though not an option) that perhaps one new school for now at pilgrim location and then five years. from now we can come back and evaluate the situation to see if the city and the taxpayers can afford to take on the second school.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
Yes, I support this. I do support the two 4-year terms for mayor and the term limits for council, however, I would have loved to see the same term for the council but offset to the mayor’s term.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I would have loved to see this funding go towards community development and bring things into each ward for the children, so they have somewhere to go and things to do.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
I think the Mayor is doing a good job. If elected, I will be able to work with the Mayor and the City Council. However, this does not mean we will always agree to agree. I will be working for the people of Ward 4 and those are the people I will represent.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
As far as legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance. I feel that all active city employees were hired with this package and they should be entitled to retire with this package. However, I would have no problem if this were to pass that it would take effect for new hires only knowing they are being hired with this co-pay. I don’t feel you can hire and give, then after several years take it away.
I am married to my wife Deborah of 50 years, have two children and two grandchildren. I joined StormTite Home Improvement in 1982 and bought out my Partner in 1989. We started our 53rd year this past April. I have served on the Board of Directors at the Better Business Bureau, The Central Chamber of Commerce, The Elizabeth Buffum Chace House, The RI State Advocacy Council, Vice Chair/ Chair of the Contractors Registration Board from 1993 - 2017, President of the Rhode Island Builders Association from 2004 -2006. I was elected to the Warwick City Council in 2012 and will enter my sixth term this January.
The most serious issue I see facing the City is “controlling spending” by eliminating Free Lifetime Health Care, increasing the incredibly low co pays for active employees, increasing the incredibly low caps on prescription drugs for active employees and reducing the high pension costs.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I will not support the school bond! The taxpayers will be voting on what is being sold as a $350 million dollar bond. I have yet to receive the “5 Year Forecast” I requested via a City Council Resolution about six or seven months ago from the City Finance Director showing what the tax rate could be after factoring in “all the current financial obligations as well as additional anticipated/ potential costs” of running the City and how this may impact the tax rates if we build two schools for $350, $400 of $500 million dollars. The voters need to know this before they go into the voting booth Nov. 8.
I also don’t believe that we need two high schools. We have a declining student population from the 1970s to date of approximately 12,000 students. From the numbers I’ve seen, the City will not be able to build two schools for $350 million, material costs are out of control, interest costs are skyrocketing and the labor force is at an all time low. One school might be more palatable to me and only if we know the potential impact to the taxpayers. If the voters go into the voting booth fully informed and decide to approve this Bond, that’s fine with me. Don’t ask the voters to approve $350,000,000 without all the facts then send them a bill that they can’t pay for.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I do support the term limits for the Mayor. I voted in favor of the six two-year terms for the Council. However it wasn’t before making a motion for three four-year terms for the Council with a three term limit. My motion failed. I would rather spend my time doing exactly what I’ve been doing -- hitting the streets each and every day, returning my constituents phone calls, texts and emails and doing the job they elected me to do in the first place. I don’t need an election year to get me engaged with my constituents.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I started meeting with City Department heads back in March and I have a very lengthy list of potential community projects for Ward 5.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
Mayor Picozzi and I don’t agree on everything. However when we disagree, it’s always with respect. I find Mayor Picozzi to be a leader that doesn't put politics first. He makes himself available and I find him to be very engaged. I will be watching closely as we enter into further contract negations, how he handles the “out of control” health care costs, free lifetime health care to retirees etc.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
Yes I would! The Taxpayers can’t afford to continue paying for free lifetime healthcare! Today’s price is approximately $23,000 per family plan. This free lifetime healthcare goes until the retiree reaches 65 then we pay the Medicare Costs. Had my ordinance been approved by the City Council when I proposed it, we could be saving $5,000,000 per year if it passed in its original form. Last time I checked, we have more retirees than active employees. How would that work for you in the private sector with your benefit costs were higher for your retirees than your active employees? Free lifetime healthcare needs to stop for all new hires at the very least.
I am a product of Warwick Public Schools. I have been married to my husband, Bill Travis, for 47 years, have a daughter, Tina, and two granddaughters, Gianna and Ava. I have worked at the R.I. Traffic Tribunal for 22 years as a Senior Clerk as well as working part-time at the Don Rodrigues Karate Academy. I have served on the Warwick City Council for 28 years and am a two-time President of the City Council, serving on every committee, the Mayor Comprehensive Task Force and the Chair Youth Advisory Board.
I have always been heavily involved in my Community: JONAH (Join Our Neighborhood and Help), The Greater Warwick Lions Club, VOW (Volunteers of Warwick Schools), Board Member Oakland Beach Association, Citizens Police Academy Alumni, FOPA, Warwick Police Explorers Board Member, Life Member Volunteer Fireman Ladies Aux., Vice Chair Ward 6 Democratic Committee, Warwick Historical Society, Member at Saint Rita’s Women’s Club, National Night Out Committee, Community Education Outreach Committee, Econ Development Committee and member, Norwood Association Executive Board Member and several PTOs in Warwick.
The biggest issue that we’re facing coming up is the ReVal and the increase in taxes from the new schools. How is that going to impact our pockets?
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
Yes, I support the $350 million bond for the two new high schools, although I would rather it be for one school, but that was not the deal. I believe the new schools will bring new families and more taxes and that it is in the best interest of our children.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I think that four year terms for the Mayor gives him or her more time for the city, the projects they are working on and the problems they are working hard to fix without stopping to campaign the following year. The downside of course is that if you don’t like the Mayor that has been elected, you’re stuck with him or her. That is why voting is important. The Council runs every two years. When you first run, you’re working and campaigning but when you’re elected and you win and you run again, now you’re working and campaigning and doing City Council work as well. The first year you’re learning and working hard and then the following year you’re back to campaigning again and it’s hard. I’ve run every two years to get where I am today. The question is, why does the Mayor have four years and the council only has two?
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I am beyond thankful for the $200,000 for Ward 6! I feel that there is work to be done in Buttonwoods and City Park; I would like to see improvements to the dog park, in the dugout, more benches at the beach area, improvement to the shelters there and I’d like a new fiber glass pole in Oakland Beach.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
Mayor Picozzi came into office with a lot of problems on his plate. He has done a lot of good. He got the sanitation up and working and moved all the city offices into one building. He posts a lot of valuable information online for the city to read and to keep us all informed. He has a thankless job.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I believe that the retired employees had a contract and we cannot touch that. For new employees who haven’t retired yet, they should pay a co-pay for City Health Insurance.
Steve McAllister grew up in Warwick and attended Cedar Hill Elementary, Winman, and Toll Gate. He has a BA from Saint Anselm College and Masters in Public Administration from the University of New Hampshire. McAllister has served three terms on the council and is the Vice President of the Eastern Region for the United States Chamber of Commerce. He is also a board member of Rhode Island Housing and West Bay Community Action and is married to Vanessa McAllister who is a first grade special education teacher at Cedar Hill. He is the father of Grace, age 2.
McAllister believes the number one issue Warwick faces is improving its fiscal health and updating its infrastructure. Major upgrades are needed for Warwick’s schools, sewer and water lines, city fleets and recreation facilities while aligning to the city’s short term and long term finances.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I do support the bond appearing on the ballot. Building two new schools is a generational decision that will affect our taxes and community for years. Therefore, the residents of Warwick should decide if this is the correct plan and time to build these much needed schools.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I do support four-year terms for mayor. Serving as mayor of Warwick is a huge responsibility and it takes any individual a number of months to discover and understand all that the mayor is responsible for. The mayors of Providence and Cranston are also on four-year terms, allowing enough time for them to fully understand the position and put their ideas and policies in place. I also support 12-year term limits (six two year terms) for council members. This gives each council member plenty of time to understand their position and advocate for their wards. I support term limits for council members because it is important to have different people join the council, bringing new ideas, backgrounds, and perspectives. I also support term limits on the Mayor of two four-year terms. After eight years, a Mayor would have had significant time to implement their vision for the City.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
In Ward 7, we will be using these onetime funds for as many projects as possible. We will put up new signage across the Ward personalized for each neighborhood. We will update playgrounds, landmark placards, walking paths, and other community assets that preserve the history of Apponaug Village. We’ll install benches and picnic tables in Arnolds Neck and at Gorton Pond, make upgrades to the Appounag Little League complex, and clear and make small infrastructure improvements around Arnolds Neck, Gorton Pond, Nausauket, Greenwood, Shenandoah and Buttonwoods.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
I would give the Mayor an “A.” He has done what he said he would do, put politics aside, and worked with the council to help improve our City. In collaboration with the council, the Mayor has helped us make significant investments in our infrastructure, in our school and our city fleets, all while keeping taxes low and responsibly utilizing federal APRA funds.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I believe issues like healthcare need to be collectively bargained.
Anthony Sinapi has spent four years in office and sees the school system as the most critical issue facing the city. He graduated from the University of Rhode Island with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Psychology and a Bachelor of Science in Sociology - Criminology & Criminal Justice. He has minors in Chinese Studies, Comparative Politics & Economics and Power & Ethics. He has a J.D. from Roger Williams University School of Law and a Master of Science in Cybersecurity from Roger Williams University’s School of Justice Studies. Some of Sinapi’s professional experience includes being the Lead Site Contract Manager for Johnson & Johnson and Of Counsel for Sinapi Law Associates, Ltd.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I support the bond issue for the new high schools. The School Department has spent years determining the best path forward for our aging high schools. As part of that effort, the Department actively engaged the community, obtained internal and external expert opinions, and studied multiple potential courses of action.
Some may believe the current buildings should instead be repaired. Please consider the original plan was to renovate both buildings significantly; they would have seemed like new for a projected cost significantly lower than the construction of new buildings. Unfortunately, RIDE derailed that plan.
Others may believe there are more options to be considered or pursued rather than new construction. This includes replacing both buildings with a single, larger high school, or replacing only one of the two high schools. These paths and more were considered and studied by the School Department. I strongly encourage anyone with questions on this topic to contact the School Department, as it is actively working to ensure everyone has all the facts regarding this important ballot question.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I support the changes to the length of the Mayor’s term. As a resident of Warwick, I do not want the Mayor to be distracted from their role as the head of the executive branch of the City, and having to campaign constantly is incredibly distracting. As an elected official, I want to ensure my ward is cared for all year, not just campaign season. Unfortunately, a two year cycle incentivizes “slow rolling.” While the current Mayor has not demonstrated such conduct (quite the opposite in fact), it has occurred in other administrations. If and when another Mayor is elected, having less incentive for unbecoming conduct can only help.
I support the institution of term limits. At their core, term limits prevent stagnation. While experience typically improves the ability of an elected official to fulfill their role, it can also breed complacency and suffocate new ideas. That being said, there are always exceptions to such generalizations. For example, the seemingly endless string of substantial repairs of school buildings over the past several years is the result of, at least in part, the end of longstanding neglect by “experienced” elected officials. On the other hand, there are elected officials like Donna Travis, who only improve year after year. Unless and until elected officials like Donna Travis become the norm, I believe it is best to have safeguards like term limits.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
The list of projects I would like to see addressed in my ward is endless, because in addition to the various items that need to be repaired, replaced, etc., there are countless ways we can improve the ward. Additionally, there are still suggestions coming in from residents living in the ward, and I do not want to discourage further suggestions by giving the false impression I already decided the project(s) that would be best. For now, I am going to be purposely noncommittal.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
Superb. I could elaborate, but I refuse to gush.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I do not support the unilateral alteration (by legislation or elsewise) of a contract which was negotiated in good faith. Courts are not kind to such conduct other than when circumstances require it, despite fear mongers pretending otherwise.
I have no issue with future contracts requiring employees and eventual retirees to co-pay for City health insurance. Mandating the inclusion of such a term in future contracts via legislation was discussed during multiple Council meetings and addressed by several solicitors, and my recollection is the solicitors stated during the meetings that such a mandate would likely not survive a legal challenge.
Vinny Gebhart lives in the Cowesett neighborhood of Warwick with his wife and two young children. He works as Vice President of Operations at a Boston-based technology company and is currently serving in his first term on the City Council. Gebhart is also a graduate of the 2015 Class of Leadership Rhode Island and currently serves on the Board of Governors. He is a proud graduate of LaSalle Academy and Providence College and is a lifelong Rhode Islander. He believes his background in leadership, technology, and business continues to make him an effective member of the City Council.
Do you support the $350 million bond issue appearing on the ballot for new Toll Gate and Pilgrim High Schools and why or why not?
I absolutely do. I voted to have the bond appear on the ballot and I intend to support it personally when I vote in November. We have a generational opportunity to invest in our kids and our community -- the time is now. I want my kids, and all kids in Warwick, to benefit from this initiative.
Do you support 4-year terms for the mayor with six two year terms for city council and two four year terms for mayor, which is also a question on the ballot?
I do. I voted in favor of both. I believe that the increased term length for the Mayor allows the administration to set longer term vision and policy goals, to take on more difficult problems, and to find more sustainable solutions. I’ve always been a fan of term limits as they encourage new voices to participate in our local government.
Mayor Frank Picozzi plans to appropriate $200,000 in federal funding for council-directed projects in each ward. What would you like to see addressed in your ward?
I’ve heard from several groups in our area. Top prospects so far are rehab of the tennis courts on Sleepy Hollow Farm Road adding pickle ball lines and nets, repairs to the Robert Ave. boat launch in Potowomut, and investment in access to Cowesett’s green spaces like Dawley Farm. These are just a few examples so far; residents are encouraged to continue to submit additional ideas through the City’s website or can reach out to me directly.
How would you grade Mayor Picozzi’s first term performance?
The mayor has been a get-it-done, common sense, consensus builder. He has worked well with the Council and I commend the leadership that he and Council President Steve McAllister have shown to make this an incredibly effective administration. His first term was not without its challenges, however I feel the Mayor and his team have made efforts to address legacy challenges directly as well as pushing new initiatives. I think the City office consolidation at the Sawtooth Building will be a boon to productivity and morale. Overall, I’d give the mayor an A for his first term.
Would you support legislation requiring all retired municipal employees to co-pay for city health insurance?
I support making reforms to retiree health care. These reforms are in the best interest of both the City and retirees, and must be done in conjunction with the retirees. To this effect, I supported a measure before the council in March, urging all collective bargaining participants to strongly consider aligning to the State of RI Anchor healthcare plan design.
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