NEW: Elorza Unveils “Vision for Providence” to Voters
Monday, September 29, 2014
Democratic candidate for Mayor of Providence Jorge Elorza announced he would be "unveiling his vision for Providence" on Monday at a press conference at Asa Messer, where he reiterated his existing platform focused on education, job creation, and crime prevention, which he has articulated throughout his campaign.
Elorza, who defeated City Council President Michael Solomon in the Democratic primary, said Monday's purpose was a "reintroduction" of himself to voters, following the primary.
"I have a bold and clear vision moving forward," said Elorza. "For me it's personal."
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Elorza spoke both his youth growing up in the city -- and what his plans are if elected Mayor.
"I am a proud product of Providence public schools," said Elorza. "I grew up here, I struggled here."
Elorza mentioned that after becoming a CPA in New York City, he came back to Rhode Island after a best friend from childhood had been killed.
Speaking about creating a government and business climate "that's transparent and friendly," Elorza also addressed the need for more polices officers in the city.
"We need more officers living in the city and truly reflective of the community it serves," said Elorza, who said he would "offer incentives" for officers to live in Providence. Elorza touched upon campaign themes he that he has discussed before, including a citywide broadband network, and setting a goal to double exports from the city.
Elorza didn't unveil any detailed proposals on Monday, but reiterated his "One Providence" theme.
"Growing up, it didn't feel like "one Providence," said Elorza. "There were those of us who didn't run in the right circles."
Explaining Further
Elorza did speak to what exports he expected could grow two-fold.
Doubling exports "starts with a plan," said Elorza, saying he looked to other cities for best practices, citing Portland, Oregon, as an example.
"What's going to be shipped out? Used cars, services we can export. Design services can be exported. TF Green not has international capacity," said Elorza.
Elorza addressed the recent endorsements received by his opponent Buddy Cianci. "I want the endorsement of the voters throughout the city," said Elorza.
Elorza also spoke to increasing the compliment of police officers.
"We used to get $8.5 million in federal funds, now we get a quarter million," said Elorza, who noted he would "personally" hand in grant applications if need be.
"We need to watch every expense closely," said Elorza, when asked how much it would cost to increase the force. "Raising taxes is not an option."
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