Matos Has Votes to be Next Providence City Council President, Says Former Council President
Friday, October 05, 2018
Former Providence City Council President Luis Aponte said Thursday that Councilwoman Sabina Matos has enough votes to regain the council's top spot following November. Matos had previously served as interim Council President.
Matos, who is running unopposed in Ward 15 in the general election, confirmed that she is working on returning to the Presidency, after current Council President David Salvatore made the power play to take the spot less than a year ago last fall.
"It's too early to say that I have the votes -- but I'm definitely running for the presidency," said Matos, "I've been lobbying my colleagues."
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTAponte, however, was more bullish on the prospect.
"She will be a fantastic city council president," said Aponte, who said she "has the votes."
Female Council Majority Expected
Following September's primary, it is likely that the Providence City Council will have a female majority -- 8 of 15 -- in January.
The majority would include incumbent councilors Matos, Jo-Ann Ryan, Carmen Castillo, Mary Kay Harris, and Nirva LaFortune, and newcomers Kat Kerwin, Helen Anthony, and Rachel Miller.
"We want a City Council that functions, that's a strong body that has the respect as a branch of government," said Matos. "I'd like to see leadership that is balanced and represents the different voices and neighborhoods of the city."
Aponte said he is wary of a Council President with "Mayoral aspirations."
"Since Councilman Salvatore took over, one thing has been consistent on the office -- fundraising, policy positions, and overall demeanor of someone who wants to be Mayor," said Aponte. "When you are the Council President, first and foremost the responsibility is to represent the body -- you negotiate and try to work with whatever administration is there. When you ask folks in that position if they're running for Mayor -- and they say I'm not ruling it out -- that's a sign. I'd say do the job at hand."
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