Political Profile: Juan Pichardo, Candidate for Providence City Council, 9th Ward

Political Profile: Juan Pichardo, Candidate for Providence City Council, 9th Ward

Juan Pichardo is running for Providence City Council in the 9th Ward -- here's why. 

 

1. What do you think is the biggest political issue this campaign season in Providence?

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Quality of life – Public safety is the major concern, as I have spoken to many throughout the city.  It is affecting all aspects of our lives in our Capital city.  The neighbors want peace and quiet, businesses want a better parking system that encourages flow of customers.  Young people want to feel safe while walking to school or the local stores.  We need to invest in our neighbors to establish meaningful relationships with those that serve us and protect us, such as firefighters, Police, and city public workers. I am committed to lead and invest in efforts of quality services for Non-Violent approaches to address these issues and make our city more friendly and respectable for us all.

 

2. What do we need to do to improve Providence's economy?

To improve Providence's economy there are three focus points we must undertake.  We need to recommit highlighting the wonderful offerings the city has to offer for all, such as the variety of restaurants, local diverse businesses, and our renowned Roger Williams Park.  The park is a gem and Ward 9s’ back yard !!

We must invest in building more housing throughout the city that helps keep people in their neighborhoods as they age.  We all know that a place to live and call home is the most important issue for all.  We need to invest and grow the City’s Low to moderate affordable housing by revising the building requirements to allow building upwards in all districts.  I am pleased that the Senate and House of Rep.’s leadership has committed, with urgency, the commitment to providing millions for such development.

We must have the over 45 % institutions who are “non-for profit / Tax-Exempt” pay a more equitable share of property taxes to the city to improve services and have a less burden to homeowners and landlords via lower taxes.  These action steps will enhance the spending power for many residents.

 

3. What is the greatest challenge facing Providence as a city?

The housing crisis and pension obligation is the critical challenge Providence is facing.  The city’s pension obligation and loss of revenue must be addressed as soon as possible when the interest rate is in our favor. We must continue to work together with the Governor and General Assembly to explore other avenues to address within a couple of years.  The same goes for affordable housing.  The people of Ward 9 and the many throughout the city are being priced out due to lack of low-moderate affordable housing.  I will lead conversations and work with leaders when elected as councilperson.

4. Why are you running for office? What makes you uniquely qualified? 

I want to continue to serve the people of Ward 9 so that we all can have opportunities to thrive.

I am ready, experienced to lead and work together to create healthier and safer communities for all our residents, especially our 55+ elderly.  Advocate for quality and equitable education for all children and youth.  Increasing funding for low, moderate housing.  Finally, making sure to assist micro businesses and increase sustainable living in Ward 9.

As a former state Senator, I have gained the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed in government on my constituents' behalf. During my time in the Senate, I worked to increase higher education outcomes, address health disparities, and promote economic opportunities in our state. In addition, I had the responsibility of serving on the Senate Finance Committee for 16 years, where I learned the skills necessary to pass a balanced state budget, and I will bring those skills to the City Council. Finally, as a 22-year veteran of the U.S. armed forces who received the RI Star and special recognition by President Barack Obama for honorable service, I will continue to find ways to lead, create opportunities, invest in the future, and work to continue making this country the greatest in the world.  

 

5. Who is your inspiration?  

Over time, my family, especially my grandparents (Papa Pablo, Mamatea) and my mom, Eva.  They have been my inspiration to be able to contribute to making our place we call home a place everyone feels welcome.  Civically, Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta and Martin Luther King, who fought for so many years advocating and leading to unite people for better working conditions and unity. My goal is to honor their service.

 

BIO:

I am a Son, Husband, Father, Veteran of U.SAir Force / Air National Guard. Former State Senator (16 years).  I was a child when I immigrated from the Dominican Republic to the U.S.A and have lived in Providence, RI for over 43 years.  Attended public schools in Gilbert Stuart, Mount Pleasant High and earned an associate from CCRI and B.A from RIC.  Worked in many places including McDonalds and RI Hospital as a patient financial advocate, while serving in the military. An Honor Guard and now Retired Veteran as a Master Sergeant after serving 22 years.

Served on various community and city boards such as Former President of The Elmwood Foundation for historical preservation, Roberto Clemente Little League, Ebenezer Knight Dexter commission and Board of Providence City License. Served in the RI State Senate as a Senator, chair of Housing and Municipal Govt. and President Pro Tempore.  I am committed to service and always putting people first.  Married to a lovely wife, Janet for 29 years. We have 3 kids and two grandkids.  Currently a Real Estate Realtor.