New: Rhode Island State Rep Williams Calls for Mayor to Open Pool
Monday, July 15, 2013
Representative Anastasia P. Williams (D), who has represented District 9 in Providence since first being elected in 1992, has sent an official letter to Mayor Taveras calling for a "practical solution" to addressing the closure of the Davey Lopes pool in South Providence.
Chairwoman of the Rhode Island Black and Latino Legislative Caucus, as well as the House Labor Committee, Williams has been vocal in pressing for answers to the city's recent policy decision that has sparked strong reaction from the community.
See copy of letter here
In a letter dated July 1st, Representative Williams began the communication to Mayor Taveras with the following introduction.
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTDear Mayor Taveras:
It has come to our attention that the pool at the Davey Lopes Recreation Center, 227 Dudley St, Providence, has been closed until further notice because of safety issues. When pressing members of your administration and the City Council about how to remedy the situation, we were told it was not worth the cost of repairs because there are not enough children utilizing the facility.
The outrage from parents and children in Upper South Providence and nearby neighborhoods has led us to believe that the notion about the pool's usage seems to be blatantly untrue. With all due respect, Mr. Mayor, it should not be necessary to remind you that recreational facilities in urban communities are often vitally important in providing needed activities that in turn deter mischievous and criminal activity. It keeps our children and your children out of trouble and puts them in proximity to other positive, engaging, and productive activities.
Read the rest of the letter, including Williams' claim that the "Department of Public Works initially caused the damage to the pool and never returned to do the repairs, which leaves us to wonder if there was an ulterior motive there," here.
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