5Q: Kate Michaud | Town manager, Warren
1. You are the former Warren town planner. How has a background in municipal planning prepared you for the role as town manager? My background in planning taught me to look at an issue or problem from multiple angles. Most things are not as simple as they seem and it’s important to anticipate impacts, both immediate and long-term. It also taught me not to be afraid to get my shoes dirty. The best way to get to know a project is to see it with your own two eyes.
2. Warren is well-known for its restaurants and independent businesses. How did the town encourage these small businesses? We like to say that you can come to Warren for everything that you can’t buy on the internet. Part of the town’s role is to help to foster a positive experience. We are working very hard to improve walkability, plant trees and to allow for a fun environment with things [such as] sidewalk dining and a robust event schedule. The town is also tasked with eliminating barriers to entry for new and growing businesses. With the help of the [R.I. Commerce Corp.] and the support of the Town Council, town staff went through the “lean” process to streamline the licensing and permitting processes.
3. The town recently announced a pending purchase of waterfront land owned by National Grid that is considered the “gateway” into the north end of town. What is the plan? The plan is to finally put this gem of a property back in service for the benefit of the community. The exact mechanism is still to be determined, but it will certainly include public access, preservation of the existing historic structure and increased economic activity. Once we finalize the purchase of the property, we will be moving forward through a public process to select a development partner.
4. How has the town changed since you have been involved with government? I am very lucky in the fact that this was a great town long before I came on the scene. This is a tiny community with a huge heart and there’s evidence of it everywhere. The major difference that I am seeing is that word is spreading.
5. What is the most significant challenge facing the residents – is it access to affordable housing as the town grows? Access to affordable housing is one issue for sure, and it is important that the town does not lose its character while it grows and prospers. This is one reason why it is so important to control property taxes and to diversify the tax base. Our manufacturing sector is our No. 1 employer and a significant contributor to the economic well-being of the town. We are working hard to support our manufacturers so that they can continue to provide a stable base for the town.
Mary MacDonald is a PBN staff writer. Contact her at Macdonald@PBN.com.
