Moore: After Providence Scandal, Muksian Returns to Cranston

Moore: After Providence Scandal, Muksian Returns to Cranston

It didn’t take long for Robin Muksian to land herself another cushy, municipal government position. On Friday, GoLocal reported that Muksian is set to become Cranston’s Director of Administration.

In March, Muksian was still working for the City of Providence’s Director Administration. GoLocal uncovered an extensive social media relationship between Muksian and Tashi Hamilton, a Massachusetts resident. Muksian had also bought a horse from Hamilton’s father, Stephen Hamilton. Hamilton was the administration’s candidate to become the city’s new license administrator.

The city council later rejected the appointment, with members questioning the appointment since Hamilton didn’t meet the minimum qualifications, including having a Bachelor’s degree.

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Let’s not sugar coat the situation, Muksian was trying to get a friend a appointed to a job that she otherwise wasn’t qualified for. What’s actually surprising about the whole situation is the fact that Hamilton is from Massachusetts, since this type of stuff is normally the Rhode Island way of doing business. I jest.

A New Post

Of course, after she “resigned” from her position amidst the scandal, the administration decided to pay her a $34,000 severance--without city council approval. Nobody who resigns receives a severance package. So we all know the administration was forced to reluctantly fire Muksian over the scandal.

Everybody makes mistakes. But it’s hard to get past the fact that Muksian partook in what really can only be described as self-dealing. How else can someone explain attempting to secure a job for an unqualified friend.

What’s even more confusing is why Cranston Mayor Allan Fung was in such a hurry to hire Muksian as Cranston’s Director of Administration.

We all know that Fung is gearing up to run for Governor in 2018--so why would he want to give his opponents any fodder to criticize him? It’s certainly a curious decision on his part.

Future Campaign Issue?

Here’s Fung in his own words: “I’m excited to welcome Robin Muksian back to oversee day-to-day operations of the City of Cranston and bring her wealth of experience, institutional knowledge, and management skills as we continue to move Cranston forward,” he said.

“Robin will hit the ground running and serve our city with passion and dedication backed up by her outstanding credentials and accomplishments.”

Sure, she had served in the position previously, from 2009-2011 to be precise. And yes, she had generally received high praise for her efforts during her tenure in Cranston. So on that front, it’s rational that Fung would be happy to have Muksian back in a position she performed well in.

But the reality that she brings baggage with her cannot be avoided.

In any event, let’s face it: it’s unlikely that Muksian will make the same mistake that saw her leave the position in Cranston--so we shouldn’t expect a scandal to come of this appointment. And perhaps Fung is correct and that it’s the right thing for Cranston.

Yet Fung shouldn’t be surprised if, and when this appointment becomes a campaign issue next year.

Russell J. Moore has worked on both sides of the desk in Rhode Island media, both for newspapers and on political campaigns. Send him email at [email protected]. Follow him on twitter @russmoore713.