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Alliance for a Livable Newport 2012 Newport, Rhode Island - City Council Questionnaire

Question #1 - Economic Development What do you consider essential factors for bringing significant, dynamic economic growth to Newport? Focus on and develop one idea that is important to you and explain what actions you will take.
Economic Development People are Newports greatest asset. Its shop owners, restaurateurs, artist, fisherman, lobstermen, and small and large contractors are the driving engine of our economy. Investment into these citizens will give us the largest return on time and resources expended on their behalf. Our service industries need people out of their cars in walking into their shops and restaurants. Institutionalizing the parking plans used for large events such as the Americas cup is the very important in the short run. We also need to expand the parking garage at Americas Dup Ave and investigate the possibility of building one in the North End of the city. Long-term investment may include sponsoring training and small business forums that allow for business owners to share their ideas with each other and the council who serves them. In regards to the skilled laborers in our community what is needed most is an ability to have them reproduce themselves. They need access to technologies that improve their competitive edge. Educational institutions are best suited to this role. In order to increase our workforce, partnerships with high schools and technical schools have to be initiated or expanded. Apprenticeship program have to be developed or expanded. There are machinist jobs, welders jobs, construction jobs, that could become self-generating in Newport when we build a labor force trained through private and public partnerships. These ideas and others that I may propose come from speaking with citizens and leaders in the community. They are the most important partners the council has in expanding the prosperity of Newport. Economic Development There are a number of critical factors necessary to spur economic growth: low tax rates; available property; strong work force; low crime rates; flexible, but consistent zoning laws; strong infrastructure (roads, parking, power, technology, communications, etc); and a committed elected leadership willing to support business. I have three ideas for economic development. To begin, I believe we can do a better job of marketing the Sheffield School property for commercial development. It is a prime location, yet it remains unsold three years after the city missed an opportunity to get it back on the tax rolls. That missed opportunity appears to have spooked commercial investors. We need to more aggressively market the property to bring the right business to Newport. Secondly, Id like to expand parking options to increase our capacity for residents and short term visitors: tourists, consumers and employees. In recognition of this need, the city implemented a parking enterprise fund many years ago, to use parking funds to construct a new parking garage. However, the revenue collected never seems to be used for the intended purpose. Instead, those funds have been raided regularly and misused to pay for pet projects and cover budget shortfalls. We recognized a need for more parking. We designed a way to pay for it. Yet the city council short-circuited that success by inappropriately diverting enterprise revenue funds. We cannot allow that to continue. Finally, and perhaps most significantly, Id like to explore a city takeover of the 50 Washington Square facility. At present, that private property provides shelter and subsidized housing and appears to do so for profit. This use of the

Donald Boucher - at large candidate

Michael Farley - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


property directly conflicts with economic growth in the Lower Broadway and Washington Square neighborhoods. The eminent domain process permits the city to purchase a property at fair market value, if it is in the public interest. It would also require the city to compensate tenants and residents, who would be provided substitute housing. In the present economy, providing opportunity for economic growth is a major public interest. An exercise of eminent domain may be the only way to remove the wet shelter from downtown Newport. But most importantly, it could open up a major piece of prime real estate for economic development. Economic Development Newports sustainable economic future is tied to its ability to compete in todays modern technology world, and thats why I asked the Council to form an Information Technology Working Group. The groups focus is to increase access to fiber optic broadband technology to residents, businesses and institutions and to increase the digital literacy of our students and workers. If the City can improve access to a fiber optic broadband backbone infrastructure, I believe existing and new businesses will understand and utilize the benefits. From an architectural point of view, the mix of a high tech modern infrastructure within one of the most historic cities in the country is the best of both worlds. By forming this group, Newport will be the first city in Rhode Island to have a planning IT working group. We will not be left behind; we will be the leaders. Economic Development In order to bring a more robust economic environment in Rhode Island and Newport, council must work with the State legislators and locally owned businesses to identify changes which could create an improved environment for starting or staying in business in Rhode Island, utilizing the expertise of the Newport County Chamber and other membership organizations. Develop a short questionnaire to be distributed throughout the business community seeking input and ideas for improving the business climate and a follow-up meeting to present the findings with idea s to improve the viability of businesses, and what would be necessary steps to implement changes, i.e. changes in local or state laws, Using this information, should include studies already done for the Washington Square, Gateway Center, Broadway Streetscape and North End Development. Economic Development The Council needs to make it easy for investors wanting to do business in the City .Today it is not as easy as it should be to work thru the various departments in City Hall to get the information and permits necessary to do business. We need to strengthen our efforts in this area and provide help and not roadblocks. Specifically Id like to see the City work with a private investor to develop the out dated visitors Center on Americas Cup Ave in a public/private partnership. Possibly a mixed use development with a new visitors center, additional parking, retail shops, a restaurants and a hotel. Economic Development To stop our economic decline we must first stop our population decline. In the last decade, we lost nearly 7% of our population. Many of those lost are young professionals like myself (College educated, in their 20s and 30s, two income households, with children). These families are choosing not to live here anymore because they fall into an income gap that we are failing to appeal to. These couples can afford to buy a home in Newport, but find our private schools too pricey. Theyre moving to places like Portsmouth or Barrington to enjoy the financial savings of a public school system that will set the conditions for their childrens future success. Or, they move to Fall River, save on their home costs, and put their kids in private schools. This has created a brain drain and achievement gap in our citys public schools. Lets build the best public school system in the state and this

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


gap will close. Families will move back in. Their money will be spent locally. For Sale signs will quickly reduce and values will increase. Theyll build businesses locally to cut down commuting time and cost. Real economic growth will follow.

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

Economic Development For seven and a part years, while in office, I have tried to persuade the Newport County Chamber of Commerce, the Visitors & Convention Bureau, the City Council & anyone who would listen, that Aquidneck Island must be advertised/promoted to those small to medium size companies West of the Hudson, North of the Ohio, East of the Mississippi and South of the Great Lakes, promoting the life style and business advantages of this area. As it stands our promotion such as it is, is up & down the East Coast where we are talking to the choir. An example of such a promotion can be made with Paducah Kentucky. This lazy little river town advertised itself as an art colony and art destination, nationally and internationally, only to become one. There is no reason that we cannot do the same, with available space & buildings in present inventory. We need to increase our vision far beyond a three month plus tourist town. Economic Development The key to economic development is making Newport attractive to investors. While there are significant economic growth opportunities in the north end, including the Naval hospital land, Broadway corridor, waterfront and downtown tourist zone, if Newport is not seen as the place to invest in, the full potential of these opportunities will go unrealized. To improve the economic development climate, we need to modernize and streamline municipal regulatory processes as much as possible and develop flexible economic development-focused zoning. Toward these ends, we need a strong planning and economic development focus in City Hall. Parking continues to be a challenge, and the city needs to do more to maximize the potential for public/private partnerships to expand parking, both in the city center as well as on its outskirts. To the extent that the high cost of housing and the reputation of our school system are seen as impediments to investment, we need to identify ways of mitigating and improving these factors. Newport could be a destination for events larger than we currently attract, but to do that we need an event center larger than we currently have, preferably one co-located in a new hotel/retail complex. Development of such a facility would add to the tax base and would have tremendous multiplier impact on tax revenue generated by business sector. Economic Development Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #2 - Casino Gambling Do you support the ballot question that would authorize Newport Grand to add state operated casino gaming, such as table games, to the types of gambling it offers? Why or why not?
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Casino Gambling I do not believe that a casino or gambling in general should be the driving economic force of in any community. I do believe that it can be an important supplement to a local economy that is dependent upon tourist dollars for its economic health. This describes the relationship between the City of Newport and Newport Grand. It is a supplement to our tourist trade. Newport Grand has been present and contributed to the economy of Newport for more than three decades. The current ballot question provides Newport Grand with the opportunity to remain competitive with casinos operations in neighboring states. The gaming that it offers is one of many reasons that visitors come to Newport. I therefore support the ballot question as proposed. Casino Gambling I support the ballot question. In the short term, I like the idea of increased tax revenue and additional employment opportunities for the City. For longer term stability, we cant become reliant on gambling revenue. For that reason, Id like to bring other, non-gambling revenue and employment options to the City. I respect the moral arguments against gambling made by Father McKenna and Mike Warner, but I think they overstate the negatives. The fact is, we already have gambling in Newport in simulcast racing and slot machines, in addition to keno, lottery and scratch tickets. The addition of each of these gaming options was accompanied by dire warnings about the moral threat posed by gambling. In truth, the additions made little or no negative impact in the life of the average Newporter. On the other hand, all of these prior expansions added revenue and year-round jobs to our local economy, including management, bartenders and wait-staff, and subcontracted electricians, plumbers, builders. Newport Grand is one of the few businesses looking to add jobs in a tough economy. If there is sufficient support in the community, I believe it can be good for the City. Casino Gambling I dont gamble but I would not curtail other peoples choice in the matter. Newport Grand is a large, local employer and contributes substantial tax revenue to the City of Newport. Last year the City of Newport received $375,365 in property taxes and $524,051 as our share of the gaming revenue. Its a business we have co-existed with since the 1970s and if allowed to expand I believe we can continue to co-exist. Moving forward, I see great opportunities for the North End with the Pell Bridge realignment and the Newport Navy Hospital Project. The City needs to update its zoning ordinances to be ready for the potential of new development in that area, so we create the neighborhood and businesses we want, not ones we end up with by accident. Casino Gambling I support the ballot question to authorize table games. My reasoning, first and foremost is, I dont know how we the City could replenish the effect of the loss of revenue from Newports annual share of the take and taxes which equate to about 1.2 million dollars a year. Utilizing our current figures this would increase the tax rate by approximately 1.94% to residents, or 21.5 cents per thousand. In this economy, taxpayers are trying to keep their heads above water. Nor do I

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


know where the 200 displaced employees would find another job in Newport County offering benefits (health & retirement). Finally, gambling has been legalized in Rhode Island for quite some time in the form of the lotteries, numbers, and other offerings. Problem gamblers must accept personal responsibility for their actions and take advantage of the addiction programs offered by the State with revenues set aside by the both establishments for this purpose. Exclusion programs are implemented automatically when Newport Grand becomes aware of a problem gambler. This program bars the gambler from the facility for life. If problem gamblers do not take advantage of the programs offered, they will find other ways to satisfy their addiction, through on-line gambling or another facility. Casino Gambling I will vote for Casino gambling in Newport for two reasons. First we need the 200+ jobs at the facility and the additional jobs it will create and second the $1M in tax revenue we now receive and the additional revenues a Casino will generate . Casino Gambling Im voting yes. Simply, the ballot question is asking us to replace digital video table games already there with a live human being. High-net-worth gamers prefer to play against a live dealer rather than a computer algorithm they dont trust. Many of these same high-net-worth persons are getting off cruise ships and heading to Mohegan and Foxwoods. Thats money theyre not spending downtown or in Newport Grand. Vote yes and youll be giving jobs to real people, raising revenue for our infrastructure, and contributing to the continued economic development of Newports North End. Lets remember that gaming is legal in Rhode Island and is simply one of the many attractions that bring people to Newport. Casino Gambling I not only support the ballot question, I voted to put it on the ballot in November. Casino Gambling I do not support the expansion of gambling at Newport Grand at this time. Rhode Island and Newport should be focusing on real economic development. Relying on gambling as a significant source of revenue is poor public policy. While there seems to be little doubt that expansion of gambling in Newport has the potential to increase that revenue stream for the city in the near term, overall it is a complex calculus; an analysis of various factors (e.g., the impact of casino development in Massachusetts, the limited audience to which gambling appeals, and the negative social costs of gambling) raises serious questions about the long term economic viability of Newport Grand as well the short term projected increase in revenue and jobs. The projected municipal revenue increase of $200,000 per annum does not constitute a compelling basis for entering into an arrangement with regard to Newport Grand that has the potential for consequences that do not seem to have been adequately considered. If the revenue projections do not materialize, is there any guarantee that the State would not permit the relocation of the casino venue to another location in Newport (on the waterfront or even on Bellevue Avenue)? There seems to have been little consideration given to the impact of having a casino as the centerpiece of north end development; while the gambling venue is a given, if the referendum is approved, who will decide how that venue integrates in overall north end development? The referendum on the ballot this year, if approved by the voters of Newport, will be the last time that those voters will have an opportunity to control gambling in the city. The proposed arrangement is less than Newport should be demanding from the state. Rejection of

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate the referendum this year will have little impact on the current revenue stream and does not preclude negotiation of a better deal for Newport and another vote in the future. Casino Gambling Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #3 - School Department Finances Are you in favor of merging the School Department's financial administration with that of the City? If not, why? If yes, what benefits do you anticipate from such a merger and what specific actions will you advocate to achieve that merger.
School Department Finances I am not in favor of a merger. It removes the autonomy from the School Department that I believe belongs there. I think that this question may be posed because of recent problems with the budget projections from the school department and high turn over rates among its finance directors. I believe that a new hire has been made that has worked for the city and has a reputation for competence and high quality work. The city council and the citizens of Newport should continue to monitor the situation and the question should remain of the table for future consideration. School Department Finances Yes. Merging the overlapping functions will reduce the cost of maintaining two separate departments. In addition, it should improve communications between the council and committee and reduce the number of surprises late in the budget year. I will work cooperatively with council and committee members to develop support for such a merger. School Department Finances I am in favor of merging the accounting staff of the City and School departments. The financial decision making process of the School Committee would remain completely separate from that of the City, but sharing the staff accounting services would be a more efficient use of our skilled, award-winning staff and create a better system for creating understandable budgets and I believe would ultimately develop better trust between the School Committee and City Council. The City and School Departments finance departments already work together. For example the school does their own biweekly payroll but the City does the quarterly and annual payroll reporting including W-2s. The City also provides regular technical assistance, in particular with new requirements such as the new TIAA-CREF pension plans. So, shared services already exist but we can improve upon it, coordinate those efforts and ultimately free up money that can be spent on education. School Department Finances I believe an arrangement of this nature could be beneficial to both the School Department and the City Council, in that we could be receiving timely and correct information. Location of personnel could be accommodated by the City, to give school department employees quick and easy access to supervision and for questions that arise. This entire process would require trust and cooperation by both parties. If everyone was on the same page in regard to the finances, it would imbue a better sense of trust and responsibility with the Council, School Committee, and the public. School Department Finances I have always been a strong proponent of regionalizing services and where better to start then within the City itself. I believe the combining of all financial services under one director makes sense from a cost, quality and efficiency prospective. Currently the City Finance Director is assessing this option. I await her report.

Donald Boucher - at large candidate

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


School Department Finances The power of the purse should be in the hands of City Hall. This maximizes financial accountability and serves to preserve and strengthen our municipal debt ratings. If we are serious about building the best school system in Rhode Island we must foster a confidence of leadership from the top down, as well as strengthen cooperation and trust from the bottom up. Both the Council and the School Committee answer to the will of the people. What our citizens want, the Council will approve to fund, and the School Committee will implement a plan that will maximize the value of every dollar allocated to the future success of our students. School Department Finances I am in favor of such a merger and am on public record as such. School Department Finances School and municipal services should be shared in as many ways as possible while respecting the authority and responsibility of the school committee to oversee the delivery of educational services. The city and the school department use the same enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and that will make merging financial processes an easily achieved objective. The city council has unanimously supported the assessments and analyses needed to provide the basis and framework necessary to merge the financial services, and has provided clear and forceful guidance to the city manager to pursue such a merger. Merging municipal and school finance services, as well as other school functions, will result in cost savings and enhanced reliability of the merged processes School Department Finances Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #4 - Regionalization Do you agree that regionalization is a must for Newport's future? If not, why? If yes, list the most important two or three targets for regionalization and indicate what specific efforts you will pursue to advance towards achieving those targets.
Regionalization I think it would be helpful. I dont think it is a must. Newport is more than able to sustain itself independent of other regions and towns. Whatever format or design that regionalization takes it must benefit all parties involved. A reasonable strategy would be to start with issues that are simple and agreeable. Once relationships between the stakeholders are established, expanding to more complicated tasks will be possible, as positive outcomes are realized. An example of a simple task may be mutually supported programs for children. A complicated task may be determining where a cruise ship can park for three days. Regionalization Yes. I support regionalization wherever we can achieve realistic cost savings. Regionalization has been promised by nearly every council candidate for the last 10 years. Follow through has been minimal, largely because of unstated fear. Some are afraid to jump into the concept because it means giving up some control even on the small issues. Weve had some success with pooling purchasing with our neighbors, but weve had some big failures too Toppa Field. For years, Salve Regina offered to pay millions of dollars to resurface the field and share maintenance costs. The council refused to act, and so Salve partnered with Middletown to install a beautiful state of the art surface at Gaudet School. That facility is nearly always in use, and has become a real The city council really missed an opportunity to work with our neighbor Salve Regina to rehabilitate community center for Middletown. We cant afford any more missed opportunities to share costs. Regionalization only works when it benefits all parties. With respect to elementary, middle and high schools, the concept does not benefit our neighboring communities. Until theyre ready to partner, we have to think smaller. Instead of regionalizing an entire school system, Id like to explore regionalizing a school lunch program. Too often, our leaders are trying to hit five-run homers. We need to think smaller regionalize in smaller bites. Tax assessment and property re-valuation could be regionalized. Public Safety dispatch functions are another possibility for joint action. I will work with local communities and with the fire and police departments to find common ground on this effort. Regionalization I believe that Aquidneck Island will see increasing benefits to regionalization. As a past member of the Aquidneck Island Planning Commission, we researched the benefits of regionalizing tax collection and trash collection between the three communities. Though these ideas sounds small, if we cannot make the smaller, less complex ideas work, we will be continually hitting a wall when looking at larger more complex concepts of Island-wide sharing such as with our schools and government. I recently wrote a City Council resolution requesting a regional meeting between Aquidneck Islands emergency responders and the newly formed National Grid liaison staff so that we will be sufficiently prepared the next time we are hit by a natural disaster. We should learn from our past experiences such as Hurricane Irene and the more coordinated plans we have in place, the better off we will be and the better communication we have between the 3 communities, the easier it will be to share

Donald Boucher - at large candidate

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


more services.Simple, ongoing coordination efforts such as City-wide and Island-wide purchasing of the same software programs is a simple way of laying the foundation for more regional shared services. Simple, ongoing coordination efforts such as City-wide and Island-wide purchasing of the same software programs is a simple way of laying the foundation for more regional shared services. Also coordination of service and maintenance contracts between the towns would step us forward. We have had good progress between the City and School Department in coordinating maintenance contracts, which will save money and create efficiencies between the departments. Regionalization Yes. We need to look at regionalization which could provide efficiencies and savings to the taxpayers in terms of economy of scale. There are areas, such as tax assessing, re-evaluation, and emergency dispatching, which could be explored in the immediate future. These important and full-time positions which are identical in training, and skill sets could be adapted, if necessary, for each community served. Regionalization Regionalization is way past due a must be seriously considered now. We should look at sharing tax assessor and collection services, dispatch services and of course our schools. The school regionalization will come when both Newport and Middletown realize that the current high school facilities are larger than we need for the number of students and that neither community can afford upwards of $100m for a new school. Regionalization I believe regionalization may be the best answer to our struggling school system. This should maximize our real dollars in per student investment while simultaneously cutting our costs from so many brick and mortar locations scattered across Aquidneck Island. I believe we should establish a Three Schools System: Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Vocational/Technical. This will prepare our children for their follow-on universities and professional careers. Our children each have unique gifts and desires. Our master plumbers, builders, mechanics, and electricians are equally and vitally as important to the future prosperity of our community, as are our children destined for the Ivy Leagues, RISD, and MIT. Regionalization I am in favor of regionalization not only for Aquidneck Island, but for those other geographically connected Rhode Island cities & towns. It is insane to have 39 cities and towns with 39 individual city and town governments sucking up the public's resources. The entire state will fit into an area equal to the City of San Antonio, Texas, with one administration. Being a realist, this will not happen in my time. If we cannot make a simple merger of the City's and School Department's financial departments, how can we even hope to go beyond that. Regionalization To regionalize, you need partners who are willing to work with you to achieve regional outcomes. I was actively involved in the Aquidneck Island study group that researched the benefits and mechanisms of school regionalization. With the financial assistance of all three communities, the General Assembly, and private donors, detailed financial and educational benefits studies were conducted that demonstrated that there are both financial and educational benefits to school regionalization. Yet, despite data that indicated that the three island communities faced fiscal challenges over the long term, which could be mitigated by school regionalization, in the final analysis the political will to move forward was not present in Middletown or Portsmouth. So, having failed thus far to move forward in a dramatic way and on a

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


large scale, we are left with approaching regionalization on a smaller scale and in ways that are not likely to be perceived by anyone as threatening. Tax assessment, information technology systems, and trash collection are possibilities, but major opportunities such as police, fire, dispatch, public works and schools, areas in which significant efficiencies and economies could be achieved, dont seem likely in the foreseeable future. Nonetheless, we should be open to any joint venture that has the potential to lower costs. Footnote: we should not forget that Newport is already involved in several major regional efforts (i.e., water and sewer), albeit in an arrangement in which Newport plays the leading role. Regionalization Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #5 - Communications a) Communication implies a two-way information flow, not just outbound messaging. What specific communication actions and programs will you pursue to accomplish this strategic communication goal and build public involvement with and trust in municipal government? b) What specific measures will you advocate to improve Police Department and Fire Department communication with one another and with the public?
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Communications The neighborhood associations are the best means for developing informal communication between the council and citizens. The use of the various commissions is also an important tool for communication. The media outlets are important. The members of the City Council are all available to communicate with the citizens we serve. We will continue to build as many bridges as possible in both formal and informal ways. Emergency communication is a much larger topic. By the grace of God we have not had a devastating natural disaster in recent memory. However as an island community we need to be even more diligent about the probability of such an event in our future. I will work with other leaders in the city to ensure that emergency plans are in place and well prepared for. The city policy of having community police officers is the best means for maintaining communication between the police department and the citizens of Newport. Jimmy Winters and the officers of the Newport Police Department are respectful and professional in their engagements the citizens of our city. I know that our fire department is always working to educate and inform our citizens about safety concerns in their homes and business that increase the chances of fire. Police and Fire fighters should be afforded the opportunity for the highest quality of training in evidence-based practices that keep the citizens, police and firefighters safe as possible Simply stated interventions based around supportive housing using a scattered site model radically reduce the number of police and fire calls made by police and fire department personnel. These interventions save money and have better outcomes for the individuals who are experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues. Communications Communication is an important core competency, particularly with regard to emergency communications. Regarding inbound communication: I am relatively satisfied with the options available to residents for contacting city staff. Any disaffected resident should immediately contact their ward councilor and ask for follow-up. Regarding public safety communication improvement: I will advocate for continued use of Amber Alert, Silver Alert in the appropriate public safety function. Simply stated interventions based around supportive housing using a scattered site model radically reduce the number of police and fire calls made by police and fire department personnel. These interventions save money and have better outcomes for the individuals who are experiencing mental health and substance abuse issues. Communications a. Improving the Citys website to have it become the go to place for getting information and providing information is one of my main goals. I would like the webpage to be much more interactive and the City is slowly moving in that

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


direction. Next season residents will be able to sign up for the Hut activities online but we should offer much more than that. Residents should be able to pay all their City bills online; neighborhood groups should be able to post their meeting dates. The webpage should become a vital resource of City and local events. The City should also use social media more aggressively to send out event notices, public utility notices, anything we would like for the public to be made more aware of. b. I support the efforts that Fire and Police should have shared dispatch and continue the flow of information between Fire, Police and the City Managers office. Part of the National Grid resolution was to evaluate the use of the new Code Red system and to improve and expand upon its use.The City Manager recently gave the go ahead for the Police to create a Facebook page, and I believe that is one of todays new ways of communicating information to the public. The Police also recently hosted a public Community Meeting and we must also continue this traditional form of communication. Communications 1. There are a number of programs initiated in communities around the country which involve communications with the citizenry. Programs such as Red Alert, Amber Alert, Silver Alert, can robocall phones and messages via computers. If the service is offered and a citizen provides thd appropriate information to receive this type of notification, it would be to everyones benefit.. Id like to see more interaction with the Citys Website. Develop a mechanism to report a problem or issue, whereby a citizen can initiate via the website. Provide a monthly report indicating the disposition of all requests. Finally, it was never clearer to me, as during Hurricane Irene, with most of the City out of electricity, the importance of communication. Although some listened to their portable radios, (although most information was in regard to the Providence area) it was unclear where shelters were, how one could get their cell phone recharged in case of another emergency, or how to care for a family member with medical needs. At that point ham radio users would have been extremely useful. Utilizing the public would have provided more boots on the ground in helping those in need. 2. In terms of specific measures, there are times when the adding personnel on the ground, public, private, and more than one department to expand a search for a missing child, senior, or someone with special needs, should be easy to implement. In terms of Police & Fire Personnel communications with one another and the public, recommendations should be provided to the council with a cost/benefit analysis by the City Manager before implementation. Communications The City Manager and her Staff will be conducting community meetings this fall to provide information and to receive feedback from the residents. This is a beginning. Im a firm believer that we cant over communicate. The City Manager and her Staff will be conducting community meetings this fall to provide information and to receive feedback from the residents. This is a beginning. Im a firm believer that we cant over communicate. We also need to make the City web site much more user friendly. The Police and Fire services communicate very well with each other and for the most part with the community. Are there issues once in a while that must be critiqued and processes changed to improve, yes but in no way do I think the communication lines are broken Communications I propose a 311 style city-wide system like they have in New York City. 311s mission is to Quote: Provide the public with quick, easy access to all city government services and information while maintaining the highest possible level of customer service. The message to its citizens is If you see something, say something. I lived and worked in NYC.

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


This system works well. It would work even better in a smaller city like ours. Additionally, FEMA is rolling out The Commercial Mobile Alert System (CMAS). The system interfaces to the Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) service that wireless carriers are rolling out across the nation in 2012. CMAS is a partnership between FEMA, the FCC, and wireless carriers, to enhance public safety. We can implement a similar local program as well. Communications This is a goal that we as a Council have incorporated in our strategic plan. Ref. the next question Communications Substantial improvements in the communication of information to the public in recent years include: an increase in the number of meetings and workshops that are recorded for subsequent broadcast on public access TV; availability of council dockets in searchable PDF format; and a dramatic increase in the amount of information available on the citys website including financial reports (budgets, audits, CIPs), information about Public Utilities (water and sewer) and Public Services (road repair) projects, and status reports on other major infrastructure projects. At the same time, the city web site, both organization and content, needs updating, and work is underway to do this. I have advocated for conducting another citizen survey and I expect to see that happen in the coming year. I have also advocated for live web streaming of city council meetings (as well as other bodies, such as the school committee) and I expect to see the city implement that in the coming year. I have also lobbied for creation of inbound communications mechanisms such as an on-line inquiry and feedback process that would make it easier for residents to communicate with the city, and I expect to see major near-term improvements in those areas as well. I know that we can do a better job and I am confident that our City Manager shares my interest in instituting communications enhancements that will achieve that improvement. (b.) I was instrumental in hiring a City Manager who I believe will ensure that these departments work together. She knows its what the council wants, she knows that she has the support of the council, and I have no doubt that she will ensure that this happens and that we will see continuous improvement in this area. I will rely on her professional judgment to identify and craft the best possible way to implement communication best practices within and between those departments. Communications Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #6 - Strategic (Long Range) Planning Four years ago Newport's voters approved changes to the City's Charter that included requirements for the City Council to develop a strategic plan and to report annually on progress in achieving that plan. Four years later a strategic plan has only recently taken shape and there have been no annual progress reports. What value do you place on strategic planning for Newport and what will you do to assure compliance going forward?
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Strategic (Long Range) Planning I believe that it is an important and vital process to go through. It is a more difficult process because of the nature of political turn over in the city council. The document itself is developing and should always be developing. To paraphrase Mayor Winthrop the strategic plan only has value if it is living and breathing document. If you do not have a destination it is hard to know where you are going. The strategic plan helps point the way to a more livable Newport. When I think about the strategic plan I think about it from a three-fold perspective. There are the people of Newport, the product of Newport and the performance of Newport that should be included in the plan. The strategic plan promotes Newport as a product well. We are a global tourist destination and that has to be greatly emphasized in our strategic plan. It also measures performance through in the section on incremental improvement. Given the opportunity I would add a section about the development of the people of Newport. Visitors should leave Newport talking about the quality of our service, the taste of our food, and the friendliness of our taxi drivers as much as they should talk about the beauty of our landscape and our history. Our harbor industries should be the best in the world and they should be supported by a well trained local skilled work force. Strategic (Long Range) Planning I place some value on strategic planning, but I place higher value on accomplishments. I will encourage the Mayor or his or her designee to specifically reference the strategic plan and accomplishments in a State of the City address once annually. Ive reviewed the strategic plan documents. It seemed, to me, that the plan is to continue to form groups, take surveys, and have meetings and discussions about economic development, and communications, and infrastructure and continuous improvement. Id prefer to focus on measureable, concrete objectives: Implement the homestead property tax exemption for our year round residents. The council has had this authority for eight years, but has failed to implement any meaningful tax relief for our year-round residents. Resurface 5-7 or more miles of road every year, without relying on bond funds. To adequately maintain our roadways, we must resurface 5- 7 miles of roads every year. For many years, we paved zero (0) miles of road. Because of this total failure in planning, our roads deteriorated to the point where we needed to issue bonds to repair them. This is totally unacceptable. When our bond funds are used up, we must develop and implement a long term roadway maintenance plan, funded from general revenue. Achieve every major target in the citys Hazard Mitigation Plan. The city HMP identifies dozens of action items. Many of these remain uncompleted. The goal should be to implement 95% of the items prior to the 2013 hurricane season. Add parking options. The city identified a need for additional parking, and developed a plan to pay for it. Years later, when sufficient funds had accrued to pay for more parking options, the city took money from the parking enterprise fund to plug budget

Michael Farley - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


gaps and pay for pet projects. It is staggering that council members could claim credit and accept accolades for their astute planning to address the parking problem for years, then turn around and destroy the plan in one budget cycle. Planning, while important, is far less worthy of merit than accomplishment. Complete the Pell School on-time and on-budget. Make city decisions (criminal, civil, zoning, planning, HDC) searchable. Making these decisions searchable could generate additional revenue, particularly in the area of criminal expungements. The state charges $100 per expungement. If city records were searchable and the city charged a similar fee, criminal defendants would be motivated to clear their record of any criminal convictions, generating significant new annual revenue. At present, there is little or no motivation to seek expungement, because the records are not searchable. Even so, there are dozens of free annual expungements granted by the municipal court every year. Zero beach closures. Sell Sheffield School. End the chronic blight at 50 Washington Square See below. Strategic (Long Range) Planning I have always been an advocate both for long-term and short planning as a way to define goals and to create a clear path of implementation. A Strategic Plan, which is a clear vision from Council, will be the building blocks for Staff to develop priorities, for information to flow into the content of our Comprehensive Land Use Plan and for that to inform our zoning ordinances. A new Council forms every 2 years but with a solid Strategic Plan, a consistent set of priorities are instituted, creating stability. These priorities can be and should be re-evaluated and reviewed by each new Council, but by having an endorsed document as a starting point; it should allow us to continually move forward with our goals. Strategic (Long Range) Planning I believe strategic planning could prove to be an invaluable tool to the future success of Newport. While the Council has made some inroads, in terms of setting goals and milestones, we have not received much feedback. Components of the plan should be developed at a high level, and should have input from citizens, staff, and elected officials. Gathering input from stakeholders as the Citys mission, vision, and goals are established should be reflective of the needs and expectations of the stakeholders. Clear links should be established among goals, strategies, and results. This would result in a set of City-wide priorities and define goals that act as a guide for the Council and Administration. It also should be reviewed and updated at least once a year and reported to our citizens in accordance with the Charter. Performance measurements, which are integral to the plan, should be objective and functional. The measurement outcomes will clearly indicate whether we are on the right track and could be adjusted accordingly The process of strategic planning is important as it systematically addresses our purpose, internal and external environment, value to stakeholders, and current and future plan of action. All budgeting decisions, capital planning, performance measurements, reporting, and evaluation should start with the direction set during the strategic planning process. Developing a cohesive strategic plan will help guide Newport to a better future. Strategic (Long Range) Planning I have been a champion of developing a Strategic Plan for the City In my position as Council chair I will continue to push this initiative forward.

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Strategic (Long Range) Planning My mission platform includes a published Strategic Plan for Newport within the first 100 days in office. As an Army Captain who served at battalion, brigade, and division staff levels, I had the experience and good fortune of writing numerous large-scale operation plans. We have four Engage Newport events being held throughout the city on October 11th, 20th, 23rd, and 27th. I will be at all four. The peoples input from these events will go into the publication of this Strategic Plan. By the 100th day of the new City Council, the people will have the opportunity to then edit, revise, and expand on that draft. It should include but not limit itself to: Completion of the new Pell Elementary, Newport Heights and Park Holm renewal, Infrastructure modernization, Environmental and Conservation throughout the City, Redevelopment of the Old Navy Hospital, What to do with our vacant school properties, Regionalization, and a long and short-term cost-benefit analysis. Strategic (Long Range) Planning Please refer to the City's press release of 9/5/12 where the City is holding four "engage Newport' meetings in October of this year. These meetings fulfill the goal of our strategic plan. Strategic (Long Range) Planning I have advocated for strategic planning initiatives since I was first elected. Having a clear understanding of where you want to go and how to get there requires planning and performance measurement. Creation of a strategic planning culture takes time and requires commitment from the council and from the city staff. Weve taken some important steps, but I dont think we have achieved as much as we should have by this time. However, I do believe that we have laid a good foundation and have created a framework that will allow us to move forward with greater speed in the next few years. Under the leadership of the council and the City Manager, I expect to see a more robust implementation of strategic planning-based initiatives. Strategic (Long Range) Planning Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #7 - 50 Washington Square There are ongoing complaints about 50 Washington Square and its impact on the surrounding area from residents, businesses, tourists, users of City Hall and parents of students attending Thompson Middle School. What do you think should be done about this and what specific measures will you pursue to alleviate this problem?
Donald Boucher - at large candidate 50 Washington Square 50 Washington Square provides permanent housing to low-income individuals that are safe affordable and well managed. The vast majority of persons who live in the building and in the shelter live without incident in the Broadway community. They spend their disposable income in the community. They shop at the local convenient stores, they have their hair cut by local barbers and they eat in the dinners The problems around 50 Washington Square are as much of a problem for 50 Washington Square as they are for businesses, residents, and tourist that frequent the area. The problem is panhandling and public drunkenness. This is the issue that has to be addressed. 50 Washington Square services are part of a group that is directly targeting interventions for this difficult to serve group. . The group includes Riverwoods Housing First RI program where I am the Director of Homeless Services, Turning Around Ministries, Newport County Mental Health, the Housing Hotline and the Newport police and again 50 Washington Square Services. Formal meetings with this group occur monthly specifically targeting the persons with the highest service need. It would benefit the city and city council to have a member who understands how to minimize the problems associated with this population so that business can be conducted for the benefit all persons who live work and visit the Washington Square area. 50 Washington Square The present use of 50 Washington Square is a major blight on the city. Like many residents, I see and hear the impact on residents, students, tourists and businesses nearly every morning when I pass the facility on my way to Newports Superior Court, or District Court or Family Court. Unfortunately, there is no easy solution. There are legal, financial and moral barriers to overcome. Having studied this issue, I believe that the best solution to this problem is to exercise eminent domain to take over the building and open the real estate up for economic development. An appropriate use of eminent domain could convert the building to a use which provides jobs, and benefits all residents, and not just those in need of subsidized housing which permits alcohol consumption and intoxication. I firmly believe that the 50 Washington Square tenants can be better served away from the temptations of the street, and will work to implement such a movement. In the interim, I would like to see increased police foot patrols to discourage loitering and crime in this area. 50 Washington Square The City Council was recently invited to tour 50 Washington Square and the subsequent meeting and tour was extremely informative. The building was originally developed using Low Income Housing Tax Credits and federal historic tax credits issued by the Federal government to encourage the development of affordable housing and preservation of historic buildings. The funding came with the restrictions that the property remains affordable housing for at least 40 years. The restrictive covenants were placed on the property when it was last rehabilitated in 2005 and run through

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


2035. I see 2 main ways to implement improvement in our surrounding neighborhood streets and in the relationship between the facility and Newporters. The first is the continued, vigilant enforcement of our public safety and nuisance laws and maintaining a visible police presence along Broadway, Washington Square and Eisenhower Park. The second way is to work with Church Community Housing Corp and its recently established advisory organization, Washington Square Services Corp, to insist that they remain vigilant in enforcing their rules and requiring their short and long-term residents to meet all of their internal qualifications. If residents fail to meet their rules, there should be no delay in addressing the problems. 50 Washington Square There should be some responsibility of the establishment (Fifty Washington) to provide security for its residents and adjacent business neighbors, from unacceptable behaviors. There should also be an outreach program on the part of Fifty Washington Square, to educate the public in understanding how many residents are there, both transitional and long-term, what programs are offered to help their residents, what security measures could be implemented for the residents and public, and ways the public may assist in improving outcomes for the residents and the surrounding neighborhood. 50 Washington Square The issues are not at the shelter but rather in the surrounding area. This becomes a city enforcement issue that we must vigorously pursue. 50 Washington Square The mark of a moral society is how it takes care of those who cant take care of themselves. As a veteran, Im no stranger to seeing the effects of PTSD on fellow soldiers. As private citizens, weve all come in contact with those who suffer from mental illness and drug dependency. Sometimes its just poverty and lack of opportunity keeping a person down. 50 Washington may not structurally be the best facility or location to deal with these issues. Mental illness and drug dependency requires professional hospital care. The poor need clean and safe long-term housing, job training, and an economy that actually has jobs. This will require federal and state financial aid and cooperation to do what is best for the residents of 50 Washington and the neighborhood. I believe building new facilities is the ultimate answer, but I will not displace those who need help the most. 50 Washington Square There have been various proposals offered by people who would fund a move of the entire organization, only to be turned down by the owner occupants. There is a definite need for such a shelter. That said, the shelter management by offering such is obligated to provide guidance, help, therapy, to their occupant/clients, looking to accepted behavior on the streets by these. Failure of accepted street behavior of these residents leaves only the very strictest of police enforcement. 50 Washington Square 50 Washington Square is a multi-faceted place in a complex community. That complexity includes homeless people with alcohol and drug addiction problems. There is no doubt that the shelter for homeless people located in the 50 Washington Square building poses challenges, nor is there any doubt that the shelter addresses an important social need in the community. If the shelter did not exist, there is no reason to think that Newport would be free of homeless people who drink and use drugs. But 50 Washington Square is a lot more than a shelter; it provides low-cost housing

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


for many Newporters who are proud to call that building their home. Thus, it is unreasonable to imply, as the question seems to, that all of the problems on Broadway are caused by residents of 50 Washington Square or people who use the shelter. Just as it would also be unreasonable to think that the homeless people who use the shelter do not contribute to those problems. The professional staff at 50 Washington Square are dedicated to working with the people who use the shelter to help them and to mitigate those problems. I believe their efforts and the improvements that have already occurred on Broadway and in Washington Square, including the upgrades to Washington Square, new businesses on Broadway and increased police attention to problems in the area, have resulted in a reduction of incidents. I expect the execution of the Broadway Streetscape initiative in 2013 will result in further improvement. 50 Washington Square Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #8 - Boards and Commissions A common piece of advice for property owners appearing before the Historic District Commission, the Planning Board or the Zoning Board is: "Take a lawyer with you." Assuming this is good advice, what will you do to make it possible for ordinary, uninformed, apprehensive persons who cannot afford a lawyer to feel comfortable about dealing with these entities? What should these commissions/boards do to become more "user friendly?"
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Boards and Commissions I believe if we actively promote a service orientation in every area of government on service in Newport the intimidation associated with these kinds of encounters will take care of itself. Boards and Commissions A common piece of advice for property owners appearing before the Historic District Commission, the Planning Board or the Zoning Board is: "Take a lawyer with you." Assuming this is good advice, what will you do to make it possible for ordinary, uninformed, apprehensive persons who cannot afford a lawyer to feel comfortable about dealing with these entities? What should these commissions/boards do to become more "user friendly?" There are many pitfalls for the unwary in the field of real estate law. Although it is sometimes painful, nearly every applicant will be better served by bringing a lawyer. That said, not everyone will hire an attorney. For those individuals, I would encourage them to study the rules and procedures, and attend at least one hearing before representing yourself. As a law school professor once told me: Dont just be prepared. Be over-prepared! In my experience, city staff have always been helpful and patient. But many times, they are juggling multiple responsibilities. Call and make an appointment to discuss your matter with staff. They cannot give advice, but they can explain the hurdles which you must overcome to succeed.Perhaps the only change I can recommend to the city would be to publish the opinions so that future applicants can get a better sense of what they need to present when appearing before the individual boards. Boards and Commissions This question has come up during meetings of the Economic Development Working Group, which I currently Chair, because not only does our current process seem challenging to home owners, it also is daunting for potential businesses. In our recent Vision Statement document endorsed by Council this past June, we prioritized developing a manual or training procedures for Planning, Zoning and Historic District Board Members and to foster a positive inhouse attitude that the City Staff is there to guide projects, to create a welcoming approach. Boards and Commissions Applicants should initially be able to speak with either a zoning officer, or other City designee to determine if their request if routine, or more complex, which may require legal representation. It would be helpful, if the City were to developed a trial application which could be used interactively by an applicant and zoning. Zoning could then email applicant with recommendations or suggestions which would be helpful to the applicant and the zoning board, prior to a formal submission. All commission meetings are on-line and open to the public. If a resident has an interest in a particular board or commission, attendance at a meeting would be welcomed. Boards and Commissions I never recommend for someone to bring a lawyer to these boards. These boards provide a vital service to the city and its residents and do it very well. Sometimes people dont like the outcome of their hearing or appeal but that doesnt

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


make these boards unfriendly. Boards and Commissions We are a historic city, and passionate about keeping it that way. Property owners approach our Planning and Zoning Boards with the best of intentions, but you block one neighbors view of the water and its Armageddon. This is normal in a city this historic and densely populated. To build what I like to call a Modern Classic city, our boards should approach a property owners building proposal as an investment in the city in the form of construction jobs, increased property values, and tax revenue. That board member happily takes that draft application and proactively works with the property owner to find a legally acceptable solution in the neighborhood. Your experience should never feel like the DMV. Lawyers should only be necessary in the most extreme cases where a compromise cant be reached or a neighbor built illegally or without permit. Boards and Commissions Some petitions presented by property owners can be administrated by either the City Planning Officer, the City Historical Officer or the City Zoning Officer. It is when the petition becomes complicated or there are protesters, that to address the tenants of the law, it is a good practice to engage an attorney. I sat on the Zoning Board of Review for fifteen years. I learned that unless complicated, most of the protesters were made up of people with a previous agenda that in some cases resulted from a barking dog, a child playing a bal the others house, or power lawn mowing in the early morning and now it was "pay-back time." Zoning has its roots in a land mark case in Euclid, Oho, that protected the property owners from a proposed steel mill. In order to obtain a special exception or a variance to zoning, one must prove why either or both should be granted because of instances unforeseen in the law or by failure to grant would amount to confiscation. Unless the petitioner is aware of the laws that apply an attorney is money well spent to advance the petition. With Planning the petitioner must prove that the petition meets with the City's Comprehensive Land Use Program. To do that the petitioner needs to be familiar with this program or engage some one who is familiar and can promote the petition. And lastly, the hardest in my mind is the Historic district Commission. The historic district houses are a combination of additions and subtractions to those buildings over the years. These additions and to what era does one apply is the complication of the Historic District Committee. In many cases the ruling is pure conception. There are historic guidelines and these need to be addressed by the Council in the future. Boards and Commissions First and foremost, we need to create a process that gives people who appear before these boards an opportunity to provide feedback on their experience so that we can identify problems and opportunities for improvement. In addressing the need for improvement, there are three areas to consider: law, staff, and members of the respective boards. Law: The authority of the planning, zoning and historic boards is a function of state law and municipal ordinance. Some of the complexity of their activity is related to the nature of land use and property rights. There are situations in which failure to have legal counsel would be foolish. But not every action is necessarily so complex as to automatically require the assistance of an attorney (or an architect for that matter). To the extent existing law and ordinance create unnecessary requirements that result in an apparent need to have legal assistance that legislation needs to be reviewed to identify how it can be improved. Staff: Staff who provide support to the boards, as well as assistance to members of the public who appear before those boards, need to be constantly aware of their responsibilities to those two constituencies. To the extent the staff creates or compounds unnecessary complexity in these processes, the City Manager and the

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


immediate supervisor(s) of the staff need to take appropriate action to redress the situation. Boards: The boards need to be sensitive to the need to balance the requirements of the laws that govern their activity and their responsibility to serve the residents on whose authority they act. The city council needs to ensure that it appoints competent and qualified people to the boards. And while the council needs to avoid any appearance of attempting to exercise control over these independent boards, it nonetheless should have in place a mechanism for monitoring their performance and should be prepared to take action when needed to ensure that the boards are providing an appropriate level of service. Boards and Commissions Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #9 - Ward Representation Newport's three wards are not cohesively delineated, making it difficult in many situations for Council members serving those wards to even-handedly represent the sometimes conflicting interests of their constituents. What changes to the City Charter would you recommend to deal with this problem -- fewer or no wards? more wards? redrawn wards? Please explain your answer.
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Ward Representation I would not change a thing. I believe it would be a waste of time to spend several council meeting discussing where lines are drawn. We have a working council that is active, mature and is trying to make Newport New Englands Most Livable City. I think the citizens of Newport want us to working to make their lives better not our ward delineations more clear. Ward Representation When compared with other issues facing the city, I dont see the present ward system as a major problem. A little conflict probably provides motivation for new candidates to enter the process. And it is far more manageable for a ward candidate to get to know the constituency. Ive talked to almost every 2d ward councilor going back almost 25 years and the list is interesting: Steve Waluk, Jim Baccari, Keith Stokes, Justin McLaughlin. Each of them began as a ward councilor and made an important mark on the city whether they went on to other positions or simply remained a ward councilor. Perhaps if they had faced the task of campaigning city-wide in their first race, they might never have had such success. Im certainly open to the idea of changing the system during the next charter review period, but for now, I am satisfied with the system. Ward Representation As a City, we are merging together more and more, for example the new Pell Elementary School will open next fall. I believe 7 at large Councilors would be good for Newport. As a current at large Councilor, I dont find the Citys character to be accurately defined by the Ward map, instead I see us as a vibrant set of smaller neighborhoods each with their own distinction but also all reliant on each other for our overall success. I travel all over the City on a daily basis, constantly talking to residents about their specific issues and often an answer for one resident is the same answer for a resident on the other side of the City. By running at large, the job responsibility is set up to maintain a holistic view of the City. Ward Representation There would still be diversity and differences among the council, but important projects would receive a more evenhanded review, not just in terms of the impact of a particular area In my opinion, everyone should be at-large representing the interest of all the citizens in Newport. Ward Representation We should elect all Councilors at-large and do away with the antiquated ward system. Ward Representation I support an all at-large City Council. The hybrid system we have now of 3 wards and 4 at-large is not truly reflective of

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate Harry Winthrop - at large candidate Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


the way the Council has to vote. Each vote impacts the entire city, and ward reps must still balance the needs of their other two neighbors. Conversely, we could go to a 7 ward council, but that would just create infighting. 7 wards and 7 agendas could only be balanced by a strong mayor system serving in a full time capacity. I dont believe that kind of big government is necessary for a city our size. Ward Representation I will not ask the voters to change the wards, their numbers, or their boundaries. There is not a ward without economic and conflicting interests. In any drawing or elimination of wards there will be pockets of conflicting agendas. The solution is in our democratic way of government; the individual majority prevails. Ward Representation The last charter review commission extensively discussed the question of wards. I testified before that body in favor of eliminating wards and having all councilors elected at-large. My experience on the council has shown that the challenges facing the city transcend wards: decisions about public safety, drinking water, sewers, streets and sidewalks, schools, parks and recreation, support to business and tourism - the essence of government - have nothing to do with ward boundaries and everything to do with prioritization and resource allocation within the context of a budget and its associated tax rate. While there is a need for residents to be able to appeal directly to a member of the council in a variety of situations, wards are not the only way to do this: there are representation paradigms involving use of ombudspersons, neighborhood associations and community organizations that could be put in place to ensure that ability to interact. An election process in which all city councilors were elected at-large and each resident had the opportunity to vote for the seven people who were best prepared to deal with the challenges the city faces would better serve Newport. I would support presenting that option to the voters. Ward Representation Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


Question #10 - Neighborhood Associations Should the City form partnerships with its neighborhood associations, formally recognizing them? What, if anything, will you do encourage a closer relationship between the City and the neighborhood associations?
Donald Boucher - at large candidate Neighborhood Associations I absolutely believe that the city should form partnerships with neighborhood associations. City council candidates should want to do that simple out of self interest. The City Council should be motivated to do so because it increases the two way communication that we are seeking with the citizens of our city. I would have concerns that formal recognition would politicize these associations. They should be independent and self sustaining based on local citizen involvement. Neighborhood Associations Neighborhood associations are a great bellwether for all city issues. But regarding formal recognition: the devil is in the details. If the groups are formally recognized, would they become subject to the open Meetings Act and Public Record/FOIA requests? If so, formal recognition might cause more harm than good. The existing associations effectively advocate for their issues (especially those touching on livability) and the councilmembers who ignore them do so at their peril. If elected I will continue to listen to the advice provided from those groups. Neighborhood Associations Our neighborhood organizations are a wonderful and productive way to learn about specific issues and to convey information. I believe the City should make better use of providing the Associations with both local initiatives but also use it as a platform to convey information on general city-wide projects, to let as many people as possible know what is going on around the City. The importance of neighborhood groups is encouraged in the revised Comprehensive Land Use Plan draft. Formalizing Neighborhood Groups has been discussed but if adopted they would need to meet a new level of legal requirements that I believe could be burdensome and somewhat limiting in their membership and flexibility to weigh in on issues. Oftentimes individuals within a neighborhood are not a uniform voice; whose opinion takes precedence? I believe Associations are most productive when they focus on awareness and convey information back and forth between the City and residents, but that individuals should retain the right to convey their opinions. Neighborhood Associations Again, there are many communities throughout the United States that offer this type of collaboration and cooperation. The City of Brookline, Massachusetts comes to mind. It has proven to be an effective means of informing residents before a project is undertaken and getting feedback from their citizens and/or particular neighborhoods. Neighborhood Associations could provide valuable information on a regular basis regarding traffic patterns, neighborhood issues, and general questions or recommendations from residents which could make living or doing business in Newport more user-friendly. Neighborhood Associations I dont understand what you mean by formally recognizing neighborhood associations. If you mean board or commission status then no. Neighborhood associations provide a vital service to the city and this must be recognized

Michael Farley - at large candidate

Naomi Neville - at large candidate

Jeanne-Marie Napolitano - at large candidate

Harry Winthrop - at large candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

Alliance for a Livable Newport


by all of us. Neighborhood Associations Yes. On my website I have a dedicated section inviting all community groups, committees, and alliances to post their links and contact information. I am seeking to represent all of First Ward. That includes The Heights, The Point, and all points in between. Lets share our visions for a better Newport with one another. Neighborhood Associations The partnership is already in place with the three wards. The neighborhood associations are membership segments of those wards. The oldest association, the Point Association, came about to purchase a plot of land. Then with the City and the Preservation Society combined the two other adjacent lots into a park, Storer Park. It since has become a group promoting and protecting a neighborhood resident life style. This promotion by the Point Association and other neighborhood associations is listened to, heard and respected by the City Council. I have been associated with other associations that had a short life span, such as Businesses Cleaning Newport and the Newport Business Alliance. Both organizations that had a particular agenda that once their agendas were met disbanded. Neighborhood Associations Neighborhood associations can play an important role in helping to identify community concerns and ways in which those concerns can be addressed. Members of the city council and city administration routinely meet with neighborhood associations and community groups. I consider it one of my primary responsibilities. These interactions provide opportunities for two-way communication with residents and help to inform municipal government about issues. Municipal government should work with these groups to the greatest extent possible. The existing willingness to work with these groups would seem to constitute de facto recognition. Nonetheless, I would have no objection to a more explicit arrangement so long as there was a clear understanding that a willingness to engage and work with these groups did not convey authority and responsibility that devolves to elected and appointed officials. Neighborhood Associations Due to a serious illness in her immediate family, Kate Leonard has not responded to the Questionnaire.

Marco Camacho - 1st Ward Candidate

Charles Duncan - 1st Ward Candidate

Justin McLoughlin 2nd Ward Candidate

Kate Leonard - 3rd Ward Candidate

PO Box 2636, Newport, Rhode Island 02840 | Email info@newportalliance.org | Website http://www.newportalliance.org

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