NEW: Smiley Opens Committee to Explore Providence Mayoral Run
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Brett Smiley announced today the formation of the Smiley for Mayor Committee, with Myrth York and Christine West to serve as co-chairs, and said he will only pursue the Mayor’s office if Mayor Taveras decides not to run for re-election.
See Announcement Below
The following announcement was released this morning regarding Smiley's move:
Smiley, Chair of the Providence Water Supply Board and the founder and owner of a successful development, election compliance and advocacy business, named Myrth York and Christine West as the Co-Chairs of this exploratory effort. Lauren Nocera will serve as a Senior Adviser.
A former State Senator and Democratic candidate for Governor, York now leads the Otto H. York Foundation and is Chair of the Providence Zoning Board of Review. Christine West is the Chair of the Providence City Plan Commission and the co-owner of KITE Architects. York is an East Side resident and West a West Side one.
Former Providence Democratic City Committee Chair and Elmhurst resident Lauren Nocera, a leader in the health care community, is an experienced campaign strategist, who successfully managed several highly contested campaigns including that of Angel Taveras in 2012 and State Representative Frank Ferri in 2007.
Brett Smiley said, “I love Providence and know first-hand the positive impact a passionate and committed mayor can have on the city and its residents. I believe I bring the business background, broad community involvement, ideas and energy needed to get this big job done.”
Myrth York said, “I have worked closely with Brett Smiley and I know he has the management skills, temperament, and work ethic that will serve him and the residents of Providence well as Mayor.”
Christine West said, “Brett Smiley has the strong commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovative development that is key to revitalizing Providence’s economy and improving our quality of life.”
The Treasurer for the Committee is Sally Lapides, the owner of Residential Properties, one of Rhode Island's leading real estate firm.
