Rhode Island has implemented a new “Non-Owner Occupied Property Tax,” dubbed the “Taylor Swift Tax” after the singer’s Watch Hill estate, targeting luxury homes left vacant for most of the year. On September 15, over 350 Providence properties valued above $1 m…
A new report from United Way reveals that nearly 40% of households in Rhode Island are struggling to afford basic necessities. This financial hardship persists even though many residents hold one or more jobs, highlighting ongoing economic challenges in the st…
Maureen McManus, a Department of Public Works (DPW) official, has been on paid leave since January 10. Recently, a panel approved a settlement concerning her employment status. Details of the settlement have not been fully disclosed, but the approval marks a s…
The Providence Board of Canvassers reported that approximately 70 poll workers failed to show up on the morning of last week's primary election. This significant absenteeism posed challenges for the smooth operation of polling sites across the city. Despite th…
Providence voters face important decisions in Rhode Island’s general election on November 3, including five state ballot measures and two city questions. Voter registration closes October 4, with mail-in ballots due by October 14, which also marks the start of…
Maureen McManus, the Deputy Director of Providence's Department of Public Works (DPW), has been on paid leave since January, during which she has collected a salary totaling $128,000. The city has not provided any explanation for why McManus was placed on leav…
Over the past decade, the progressive spirit ignited by Bernie Sanders’ 2012 Rhode Island presidential primary campaign has culminated in a significant political shift in Providence. Volunteers from Sanders’ 2020 campaign founded Reclaim RI, a housing advocacy…
David Morales secured the Democratic nomination for Providence mayor in the recent primary, marking a significant progressive victory. His win was notable not only for his campaign but also because it reflected broader support from prominent progressive figure…
The Advisory Council on Historic Preservation has proposed major changes to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), potentially limiting consultation rights for Native American tribes, local governments, and the public on federally funded…
In Providence’s recent primary elections, a progressive coalition aligned with Democratic mayoral nominee David Morales achieved significant victories, promising to foster a “Providence for All.” At least five new City Council members will join the council in…
Progressive State Representative David Morales defeated incumbent Providence Mayor Brett Smiley in the Democratic primary held Wednesday, securing 53% of the vote to Smiley’s 46%, winning by just over 1,700 votes. Morales, a 27-year-old democratic socialist, c…
David Morales, at 27 years old, is on track to become the youngest mayor in Providence's history following a significant electoral victory. His win marks a swift ascent in local politics, reflecting strong community support and a desire for fresh leadership in…
