Statement from Council President Sabina Matos Regarding Last Night’s Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year ’21 Budget

Statement from Council President Sabina Matos Regarding Last Night’s Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year ’21 Budget:

When the original Public Hearing was Zoom-bombed by hateful rhetoric, this Council made a decision to reschedule it.

We rescheduled it because the Public Hearing is the only opportunity for the community to go on record with feedback on the Administration’s proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year.

After 9 consecutive hours of public testimony last night, one thing is abundantly clear: the community is not content with what the Administration has submitted for the Police Department’s budget.

The Council will now engage in the task of examining the Police Department budget to evaluate where amendments could be made that are reflective of the community’s priorities.

We will do this in collaboration with community leaders, public safety officials, and the Administration. We are hopeful that a unified approach will result in safer neighborhoods and a more empowered community.

Sabina Matos, President

Providence City Council

Councilwoman – Ward 15