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Policies that Prioritize Providence Residents
During the August recess, Providence City Councilors were still hard at work on behalf of our neighbors across the city. Read below for more detail about recent wins for Providence residents and, as always, follow us on social media to ensure you get the latest updates and information!
Ward 2 Council Seat
Councilwoman Helen Anthony (Ward 2) announced that she will resign from office effective September 1st to devote more time to her health. Councilors will officially receive her resignation letter at the first September meeting of the city council and, by resolution, declare the seat vacant and direct the Board of Canvassers to schedule a special election. In accordance with the Providence Home Rule Charter, a special election will then be held within 90 days.
In a letter shared by email with her Ward 2 neighbors, Chairwoman Anthony stated, in part:
“I take immense pride in the stands I have taken for transparency. It was not always easy, but I have done my best to communicate with you and to represent the city’s long-term interests. This year’s budget was particularly difficult given the financial challenges facing the city. While no single councilor can solve the city’s problems, I am proud that my team and I set a new bar for educating colleagues and residents about how the city’s budget and taxation processes work, and striving to encourage meaningful public input.”
On behalf of her colleagues and staff, Council President Rachel Miller shared her gratitude and admiration for the chairwoman’s service during her time on the council:
“Serving alongside Chairwoman Anthony has been a great privilege,” said Council President Rachel Miller. “Since our first months in office, I found her to be a clarion voice for her neighborhood and the city, honoring resident contribution and leading effectively with compassion and clarity of purpose. The residents of Ward 2 have had a wonderful representative; residents of every neighborhood have had a steadfast advocate in Helen. While I will miss her leadership on the council, and in particular her deft stewardship of the Finance Committee, I am proud of her decision to prioritize her health. As Helen’s colleague and friend, I was in awe of her resilience and tenacity as she recovered from the accident, and I am in awe of the grace with which she is making this difficult decision today. The city owes Councilwoman Anthony a debt of gratitude for her service.”
The City Council Office will be available to address any constituent issues during the transition and while the Ward 2 council seat is vacant. Residents are encouraged to call constituent services at 401-521-7477 or email council@providenceri.gov.
Mourning the Loss of Judge Frank Caprio
The City of Providence lost one of its giants with the passing of former Chief Judge of the Providence Municipal Court Frank Caprio. In response, Council President Rachel Miller released the following statement:
“My colleagues and I mourn the loss of Judge Frank Caprio, a man whose life reflected this city at its very best. Raised in Federal Hill, the lessons of his family and his neighborhood guided his every decision, bringing fairness and understanding to the courtroom and earning respect from well beyond Providence’s boundaries. For nearly four decades as Chief Judge of the Providence Municipal Court, he approached each case with a spirit of mercy that made justice feel human. He believed deeply in the power of education, creating scholarships that honored his own journey and gave Rhode Island students the chance to shape not only their own lives, but the future of their city. Through his work in the courtroom and his dedication to public service, he set a standard for those who follow, showing that leadership is found in how we treat the people we serve. His example will guide our city for generations. On behalf of the City Council, and as the councilor representing Judge Caprio’s dear Federal Hill, I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. This city will never forget him.”
Dropping of Unjust Noise Fines, Celebrating Butler Hospital Workers
Council President Rachel Miller and members of the Providence City Council commend the historic contract ratified by SEIU 1199NE workers at Butler Hospital and applaud that, following sustained pressure from Council leadership, the City of Providence dropped all $500 noise citations levied against striking workers.
Throughout the three month strike, Council members marched the picket line, passed a resolution in support of the workers, and repeatedly condemned the City’s issuance of punitive fines. The City’s Law Department formally dismissed the charges—a clear win for workers’ rights and free expression in Providence.
“Butler workers stood together for their families, their co-workers, and their patients, and the City Council was proud to stand with them every step of the way,” said Council President Rachel Miller. “Earlier this month, we celebrated the ratification of a contract that meaningfully improves their lives. We welcome the reversal of unjust noise citations that should never have been issued. $500 fines could not quiet the striking workers, whose tenacity and solidarity led directly to a strong new contract. When the City punished workers for raising their voices, we raised ours, and I’m happy to see the penalties dropped.”
The new four-year contract raises wages by up to $5/hour, protects health coverage, strengthens workplace safety, and secures retirement and education benefits. By the end of the agreement, no worker will earn less than $20 per hour. Members of the Providence City Council congratulate SEIU 1199NE workers on this hard-fought victory and remain committed to defending workers’ rights, supporting healthcare staff, and holding institutions accountable when they retaliate against organizing workers.
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