Just a brief update on the happenings in City and in Ward 1. We are in the midst of preparing to respond to a decrease in revenue sharing from the state. At this point it is not clear as to the depth of such a cut, but discussions are underway to deal with the budget changes. I have responded to many calls with ideas, suggestions and concerns regardingthe budget and city expenditures. On a Ward 1 level, Gaspee residents have begun to form a Civic Association and I remain avaiblable to support them in whatever way possible. This is a good compliment to the stronf neighborhood associations that exist in our community already. I receive consistent updates from Colonel McCartney regrarding the safety of our neighborhoods. He informs me that things to look out for are thefts from automobiles and scams that attempt to take advantge of older people in our neighborhoods - these appear to be city wide concerns and all of us should make sure to check in now and again on our older neighbors.

One issue that has come up with the council on several occassions concerns the condition of our streets, particularly as it relates to potholes. These cause damage to cars and can be dangerous in many different ways. If you see a pothole on a city street, please report it the Department of Public Works.

Lastly, a major concern persists regarding the sewer project underway in Governor Francis. I have been speaking daily with members of the Warwick Sewer Authority regarding related issues and will continue to work on ways to manage the costs of this project and offset costs to residents in the long run. This is not an easy issue and carries many complexities, but bottom line is that the people of Ward 1 need to be treated in a fair and equitable fashion.

As always, you can contct me with questions or concerns. 401 941-9399 or saco13@verizon.net

Respectfully
Steven Colantuono
Councilman - Ward 1