Political Notes

The Cranston Herald ·

Two of the Democratic candidates for at-large seats on the City Council are teaming up for a series of weekly visits to Cranston businesses.

Kate Aubin and Lammis Vargas in a joint statement last week announced their “We Mean Business” initiative, which will involve Wednesday visits to different parts of the city. The statement indicates the candidates will be “visiting local establishments and speaking with business owners about their experiences running Cranston-based businesses, the obstacles they face, and what they need to better succeed.”

“Economic development improves property values, strengthens the tax base, and improves and enhances quality of life,” Vargas said through the statement. “Small businesses are a vital part of that economic development … As a candidate I look forward to continue to hear how we can better support Cranston businesses and entrepreneurship from a government perspectives, make the steps less of a burden for newcomers and continue to make Cranston the creative economic hub.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of our city,” Aubin said through the statement. “They know and support their neighbors, they serve and build relationships with the community, and they add character and culture to a neighborhood’s identity. I want to assist local businesses in Cranston, whether it be through the creation of merchant’s associations, increased walkability around their establishments, or through a ‘shop local’ marketing campaign.”

The candidates plan to make stops in the following areas: Park Avenue and Rolfe Square; Knightsville; Dyer Avenue and Cranston Street; Reservoir and Atwood avenues; Pawtuxet Village; and Oaklawn Avenue. More information is available on their Facebook pages.

Millea announces District 16 bid

Christopher T. Millea, the Democratic candidate for the District 16 seat in the state House of Representatives, has outlined his background and goals in a statement.

“As a husband and father of two young girls in Cranston, The time to begin creating a better future is now. That is why I will be your next state representative,” he said in a recent statement.

“My vision to create a better future is clear. My top priorities are investing in education, fighting for accountability and ethical conduct of our public servants and improving our quality of life. I’m respectfully asking for your vote in the general election on Nov. 8.”

Millea is a lifelong Rhode Islander, and a graduate of Mount Saint Charles Academy, Providence College, and Roger Williams University School of Law. He is an attorney with extensive jury trial and courtroom experience, representing public and private clients.

Millea is challenging first-term Republican state Rep. Robert Lancia.

Herald, library sponsoring forums for local candidates

The Cranston Herald and Cranston Public Library will sponsor a pair of upcoming public forums featuring candidates for local offices in November’s election.

The first event, scheduled for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 29, will feature candidates for ward seats on the City Council and School Committee. The format will include statements from the candidates and questions from a Herald panel – including editor Daniel Kittredge and reporter Pam Schiff – as well as members of the public.

The second gathering is scheduled for 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 6. From 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., citywide council candidates will provide opening statements and answer questions from both panelists and members of the public.

Starting at 7 p.m., the two candidates for mayor – incumbent Republican Allan Fung and Democratic challenger Michael Sepe – will appear. They will provide statements and answer questions from the panel and the public.

Both forums will be held in the conference room at the Central Library, located at 140 Sockanosset Cross Road.

Members of the public may submit questions in advance via email at dank@rhodybeat.com. Questions may also be submitted prior to the start of each forum for consideration.

The panelists will review submissions and select questions to be asked during the forum, by either the person making the submission or a panel member.

The forums will focus on a range of issues, including the economy, education, development, infrastructure, and city services. Candidates will also be asked about their records and platforms.

Organizers ask that those in attendance remain respectful and refrain from interrupting the proceedings.

While demonstrations of support for candidates are welcome, it is also asked that campaign signs or similar materials that might cause visual impediment or distraction to others on hand remain put away while the programs are in progress.