As we look ahead to 2025, I invite the people of Johnston to reflect on how far we’ve come and where we’re going. Johnston’s progress over the past few years has been nothing short of transformative, and I believe our success can serve as a model for other communities across Rhode Island.
We’ve broken ground on a $90-million, state-of-the-art elementary school, ensuring a modern learning environment for our children. We’ve prioritized public safety by hiring 12 new police officers and investing in essential equipment like new rescue and ladder trucks. Our town’s quality of life continues to improve with projects such as the opening of our ADA-accessible playground and the ongoing construction of a multi-purpose sports facility at Woodlake Park.
Economic growth has been central to Johnston’s success. Two major developments – the Encompass rehabilitation hospital and the Amazon fulfillment center – have already opened their doors, creating jobs and strengthening our local economy.
At the same time, we’ve worked diligently to keep residential property taxes stable. Homestead exemption recipients pay a property tax rate of $12.24 per $1,000, the 13th lowest in Rhode Island. What sets Johnston apart is that this competitive rate includes comprehensive services: a professional fire department, a municipal police force, public works, municipal trash pickup and a local school system. Unlike rural towns with similarly low rates, Johnston doesn’t rely on regionalized or volunteer services. Here, you get unmatched value for every tax dollar.
Our approach to economic development has been deliberate and strategic. By welcoming businesses that generate tax revenue without adding significant costs to our school system – where the price of educating just one student exceeds $18,000 annually – we’ve been able to balance growth and fiscal responsibility. To put this into perspective, a home would need to be valued at $1.5 million just to cover the cost of educating one child. Our business-friendly policies also mean more people work and spend their hard-earned dollars here in Johnston, benefitting local businesses and helping us keep taxes stable.
We’ve also taken a thoughtful stance on housing. By encouraging single-family home construction over high-density apartments, we’re expanding our housing stock to help ease demand and stabilize prices. This strategy supports families looking to build their futures in Johnston, while maintaining our town’s welcoming suburban character.
Looking forward, I remain committed to enhancing town services that improve residents’ day-to-day lives. Whether it’s completing large-scale projects like the new splash pad or tackling routine maintenance like storm-drain cleanings, these efforts ensure Johnston continues to be a great place to live, work and raise a family.
One of the most pressing challenges we face is flooding, which impacts neighborhoods across Johnston. With the steadfast support of Senator Reed, Senator Whitehouse, and Representative Magaziner, we’ve secured tens of millions in federal funding to address this issue. From road upgrades and drain replacements to targeted property solutions, we are taking the necessary steps to combat chronic flooding and protect our homes and infrastructure.
As your mayor, I want you to know that my dedication to Johnston remains unwavering. I will continue to fight for you, to listen to you, and to work for you every single day. I will stand with anyone – or stand up to anyone – if it means achieving the best outcomes for our town and its residents.
Johnston’s progress is real, measurable and just the beginning. I hope these successes inspire pride in what we’ve accomplished and optimism for where we’re headed. My priority has always been, and will always be, the people of Johnston.
Here’s to a bright, prosperous and exciting 2025. I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year. Together, let’s keep Johnston moving forward.
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