Jorge O. Elorza | Mayor, Providence
1. What is your New Year’s resolution for the city? The long-term vision we have built over the last five years has resulted in bond rating upgrades and consecutive surpluses; crime at historic lows; proactive investments in infrastructure; and major developments in each of our 25 vibrant neighborhoods. As we enter 2020 and begin a new decade, I am committed to providing the critical services that make Providence a city that works for all residents and businesses, while advancing first-of-its-kind investments.
2. Will any of the city’s $8.5 million operating surplus from fiscal 2019 be used to create opportunities for businesses? For the last four years ... we’ve seen operating surpluses that have built our city rainy day fund to $20 million, along with upgraded bond ratings and improved reviews from credit agencies. Our stronger financial position allows us to incorporate priorities such as expanding our infrastructure investments, investing in our school buildings, keeping tax rates down and supporting workforce-development programs into our budget planning process.
3. What parts of your Great Streets Initiative can Providence expect to see completed in 2020? In 2020, we expect to complete connections between Roger Williams Park, the new I-195 waterfront park in downtown, and the East Bay Bike Path. This network will ultimately incorporate connections to regional trails such as the Blackstone, Woonasquatucket River Greenway and Washington Secondary bike paths for residents and visitors to explore and enjoy.
4. Will we begin to see parts of your Climate Justice Plan put into place this year? We have already begun incorporating portions of the plan into our vision for the next year. One strategy aims to develop a community choice aggregation program that will allow residents and businesses to lock in lower, more stable [electricity] rates and increase the share of electricity coming from renewables. We’re also engaging stakeholders and property owners to reduce Providence carbon pollution.
5. Are you satisfied so far with progress in the state’s takeover of Providence public schools? While this process has been difficult, we are on the right path [toward] providing our kids with the 21st-century education they need and deserve. I firmly believe that a successful transformation is rooted in sustainable changes that center the voices of our students, parents and teachers.
Elizabeth Graham is a PBN staff writer. Contact her at Graham@PBN.com.
