Dear Neighbors and Friends
I’m proud to be the only candidate for Mayor running an entirely positive campaign– because the stakes are too high for mudslinging and negative attacks.
Providence is at a critical point. With major financial agreements expiring and requiring re-negotiation, the decisions of the next Mayor will determine whether we can put our city on sound fiscal footing for generations to come. The ability to focus on the job at hand without getting mired in finger-pointing will be essential in the next 10 years.
Consider these facts:
Twenty years ago, Mayor Cicilline negotiated the first agreement with the colleges for payments in lieu of taxes. That agreement expires this year.
Ten years ago, Mayor Taveras negotiated with the unions to suspend certain pension costs. That agreement expires next year.
And last year our city received a windfall of federal money that makes it look like we don’t have any financial problems whatsoever. We all know that is not the case.
To be prepared for this moment, we need a leader that isn’t learning on the job.
I was Providence’s first Chief Operating Officer.
I was Governor Raimondo’s Chief of Staff.
I was the Director of the Department of Administration.
I’m the only candidate who has managed budget and personnel of this size.
I’m the only candidate who has negotiated union contracts, and I’m the only candidate who has already managed city operations.
I am ready for these challenges, and I know how to fix them.
While opponents have been focused on each other and launching negative attacks, I’m focused on attacking our challenges.
Due to redistricting, many polling locations have changed and we’re still living with COVID-19 which is why having a plan to vote is more important than ever.
If you need a ride to the polls, #TeamSmiley will help you get there.
For too long, Providence politics has been defined by what politicians are willing to do to their opponents: low blows, half-truths, and negative attacks.
I’m running for Mayor because I have a vision for what we can do for this city: fixing our schools, keeping our streets safe, and delivering high-quality city services to our neighbors.
I ask for your support Tuesday and in the years to come.
Sincerely,
Brett Smiley
