Chafee names former Supreme Court justice as Central Falls receiver

PROVIDENCE – Gov. Lincoln D. Chafee on Monday named former state Supreme Court Justice Robert G. Flanders Jr. as Central Falls receiver, replacing another former judge, Mark A. Pfeiffer.
Chafee said Flanders’ judgment and experience, which includes a recent term as chairman of the Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education, make him the right fit for the job.
‘I am confident that he has the ability, the background, the needed skills, and the commitment required to address the considerable challenges involved with transforming Central Falls into a successful community,” Chafee said in a news release. He added Flanders may also assist other financially distressed communities.
The governor also praised Pfeiffer, who had served as Central Falls receiver for the past six months. Pfeiffer retired from the Superior Court bench in 2009 and was asked by then-Gov. Donald L. Carcieri to become the city’s first receiver in July.
“Judge Pfeiffer has made considerable steps in the very difficult task he accepted when he answered the call to serve as receiver,” Chafee said. “He has worked tirelessly and has sacrificed a great deal of time and energy” on the task.
In December, Pfeiffer said in a report that the financially troubled city should attempt to be annexed by neighboring Pawtucket.
Central Falls has a projected deficit of as much as $25 million from 2012 to 2016 and an $80 million unfunded pension liability, according to Pfeiffer’s report.
Flanders served for eight years on the R.I. Supreme Court. He recently completed his term as chairman of the R.I. Board of Regents for Elementary and Secondary Education, but will continue on the board until his successor is named and confirmed.