January 29, 2007 Contact: Sue Baker
For Immediate Release 738-2000
Avedisian seeks appointment of Warwick resident
to RIAC leadership post
WARWICK – Mayor Scott Avedisian has asked Governor Donald Carcieri to appoint a Warwick resident as the next chairperson of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) Board, he announced today.
In a letter sent Friday, Avedisian noted that the appointment of current Chairman James Rosati as president and CEO of Beacon Mutual would necessitate a change in the RIAC board membership. He said that selection of a Warwick resident would go a long way in assuring the city’s residents that the state is taking seriously their concerns about operations at T.F. Green Airport.
“As you are aware, the residents of Warwick have been extremely concerned with the proposed expansion at T.F. Green and the effect it will have on our neighborhoods, transportation, tax base and environment,” Avedisian wrote. “Too often, these concerns have been compounded by a perception that the FAA, the State and the RIAC board are not attentive enough, or listening to, their (very valid) concerns.
“Although communication between the City and RIAC has greatly improved since Mr. Brewer’s appointment, I believe that additional steps can be taken,” Avedisian continued. “Accordingly, I would respectfully request that the next RIAC chair be a resident of the City of Warwick. I believe that would send a strong message to the residents of this city that you and your office are committed to listening to their concerns.”