Rhode Islanders face seven ballot questions this year, and few of them are simple to endorse or reject.
Question 1
Does the state need to replace the diminishing asset that is Newport Grand? Absolutely. And the proposal by Twin River to build and operate a new casino in Tiverton is a good one. But there is a problem. Tiverton is guaranteed $3 million in revenue per year from the facility based on net gaming revenue. But if operations fall short, the state will be forced to fill the gap from its take. Rhode Islander taxpayers should not have to do so. Vote Yes, but we're not happy.
Question 2
Without question it is time that the Ethics Commission have full power to censure state legislators. Vote Yes.
Question 3
In 2012, Providence Business News recommended rejecting the $94 million bond to build a new Veterans' Home, not because it wasn't needed but because the state's financial condition was not optimal. Now this project comes back to the public asking for an additional $27 million. The state should invest in many things, but it should find a way to pay for this out of the operating budget. Vote No.
Question 4
The future health of the state depends on building a more robust economy, and nothing is more robust than constant innovation. This ballot initiative proposes using $45.5 million to finish the upgrades to the University of Rhode Island's engineering college as well as creating an innovation center connected to URI. Vote Yes.
Question 5
Trade, despite taking a beating in the current presidential campaign, is a must for economic growth. This bond, $70 million to improve and expand the ports of Providence and Davisville, is the minimum that must be invested to make sure that Ocean State businesses are competitive on the regional, national and world stages. Vote Yes.
Question 6
Rhode Islanders are suckers for park improvements, brownfield cleanups and the like. This $35 million is more of the same. It is not clear that all of these efforts are needed, but the environmental scrubbing of the state is especially important. Vote Yes.
Question 7
Rhode Island has a well-earned reputation for not having enough affordable housing. This $50 million bond follows similar bonds passed in 2006 and 2012, both of which spurred significant private investment to complement the public contribution. This is without a doubt money well spent. Vote Yes. •