To the Editor:

On Monday, June 27 I officially filed my declaration of candidacy for the Warwick City Council Ward 7 seat. I am excited to take this next step in my campaign for City Council. I am running to ensure Ward 7 residents have safe, strong neighborhoods, receive exceptional city services, and have responsible, fiscally sound budgets that promote job growth.

Since the announcement of my candidacy in April, I have been meeting with citizens of Ward 7. Many have indicated they are ready for a leader with new ideas that will help reinvigorate our great city. My experience in federal, state, and local government paired with my work with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce will help foster collaboration between the city and small businesses for the good of the community.

One way to create jobs and strengthen our local economy is by making it easier to start or conduct business in Warwick. Launching a site readiness program modeled after the Quonset Business Park is a specific step elected officials can take to help stimulate economic growth. This pre-permitting process would make the city ready for immediate development. The more new jobs and tax revenue we can create, the more we can invest in our infrastructure, our schools, and other city services.

In recent meetings with residents of the ward, other issues I have been highlighting include reducing the prevalence of speeding drivers in the

Greenwood neighborhood, preserving our environment by providing resources to protect Warwick Pond and the Pawtuxet River, and maximizing value while eliminating waste in city budgets.

Warwick is a great place to live, work and play. I am looking forward to continuing to meet with the residents in Ward 7, to listening to their concerns, and to speaking with them about how my professional and community experience will serve them well on the City Council.

Steve McAllister

Democrat Candidate for City Council Ward 7