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Why I'm Running Again For the Coventry Town Council |
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Why I'm Running Again For the Coventry Town Council |
This two year old letter still expresses my feelings about the situation we face. August 1, 2006 Dear Friends, The town of Coventry has been facing critical issues in its recent history. Our town has grown rapidly and our plan for growth has been poor. We have earned the perennial distinction as the highest taxed citizens in the State of Rhode Island and yet our schools are continually clamoring for more money. Voters rejected our town budget in 2005, they sent it to an all day referendum in 2006, and the financial outlook for the future is even bleaker. We have all read the local news and continuously see headlines that cast an embarrassing light on Coventry. At our 2006 town financial meeting, many newcomers to our town expressed their frustration with our financial situation and openly questioned their decision to locate here. It was disheartening to listen and know that the very fabric of our community is in such jeopardy. The behavior of certain council members has led to a resignation, a leadership change and a termination of our long time town manager with no plan for succession. The town manager’s position had been vacant for over a year and nothing had been done to enable our town government to effectively provide solutions to our problems. As a longtime resident of Coventry with three children in the school system, I am deeply troubled by our current situation. I am also increasingly concerned for my children’s future and the quality of life in our community. That is why I have decided to run as the Republican candidate for District 5 Town Council. I respectfully ask for your vote, for me and the Town of Coventry. Sincerely, Ken Cloutier |
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