VIDEO: Columbus Statue Removed - Councilman Questions Lack of Community Input & Mayoral Authority

VIDEO: Columbus Statue Removed - Councilman Questions Lack of Community Input & Mayoral Authority

The statue of Christopher Columbus was removed from its now-former location in the Elmwood neighborhood in Providence on Thursday.

Now, the Councilman who represents the ward in which it was located is questioning the legal authority of Mayor Jorge Elorza to have taken the action. 

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“As I’ve said all along, the Ward 8 community should have a say on whether it stays or goes,” said Councilman Jim Taylor. 

“I’m not sure [of the Mayor’s authority to remove it],” he continued. “According to the City Charter, the only authority to remove statues or monuments is with the Board of Parks Commission.”

READ: See Elorza’s Statement on Statue Removal HERE

“We want our community’s voice centered in the decisions made around the memorials, historical markers and monuments that represent the city,” said Elorza.

“Using his own words — then why take it down until Ward 8 voices were heard?” said Taylor.  “I paid and did board the statue up myself to protect it.”