"Exceptional leadership, dedication, and a commitment to improving the quality of life for all Charlestown residents."
By Ronald H. Russo
 |
| Left to right, top: Rippy Serra, Steve Stokes, Peter Slom. Bottom: Deb Carney, Craig Marr |
Under the council’s guidance, our town has seen exceptional
budget management practices that have led to one of the lowest real estate tax
rates in the state. This is a testament to their collaborative efforts in
working for the common good of Charlestown. These dedicated public servants
have demonstrated that effective governance transcends political divides, in a
time when fiscal responsibility is paramount.
One of the most recent notable achievements of the current
Town Council was their collaborative effort for an emergency repair to the west
wall of the Charlestown breachway. Due to three consecutive storms in December
2023 and January 2024, the walls of the breachway could not keep up. Emergency
action was required. This devasting situation has had a profound impact on the
health of the pond and on our town’s residents and local businesses. The
council’s ability to work collaboratively with all those involved, listening to
the concerns of residents and taking decisive action was instrumental in moving
forward with the emergency repairs, which should be completed by the end of the
month.
Furthermore, council members Carney, Serra, Stokes and
Slom’s commitment to transparency and open communication has been exemplary.
They have facilitated well-run regular town meetings, community forums and
accessible online resources ensuring that residents are well-informed and have
ample opportunities to voice their opinions and concerns.
I believe their vision is exactly what our town needs. Their
proactive approach to addressing change and their commitment to the well being
of our town are truly commendable.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly support and endorse the
reelection of the four members of our current CRU-majority Charlestown Town
Council; Deb Carney, Rippy Serra, Peter Slom and Stephen Stokes and the
addition of Craig Marr.
I also support the following CRU-endorsed candidates: Glenn
Babcock and Laura Rom for Planning Commission, Ray Dreczko for town moderator,
and Laura Chapman for School Committee.
I am confident that our community will be best served under their leadership.
A version of this article appeared as a Letter To the Editor in The Westerly Sun on October 7, 2024.