Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding the Bankruptcy Filing for Central Coventry Fire District

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said today that a state-appointed lawyer, Robert Flanders, and the Receiver for the Central Coventry Fire District, Steven Hartford, filed a petition in the United States Federal Bankruptcy Court to start Chapter 9 restructuring proceedings in regards to the fire district.

Governor Chafee continued: “This is an unfortunate step. Short of an agreement with the Firefighters Union and restructuring the district’s other debts, bankruptcy is the only tool left to us to finally set the fiscal ship of the Central Coventry Fire District on the right course. I fully expect the district to emerge from the bankruptcy with a reorganized and downsized operation that can pay back its debts and maintain a proper fire and rescue service, as well as assure tax stabilization for the residents.

“For about a year and a half, we have brought both sides – the Central Coventry Fire District and firefighting staff members – together to reconcile their differences. My administration has offered assistance, initiated back-and-forth discussion, and suggested and requested options. I have instructed members of my administration to continue the negotiations in hopes of working toward a resolution. The cost of the fire district has risen beyond the willingness of the taxpayers to pay, and now bankruptcy is the only means available to restructure the district's operations and obligations to restore it to fiscal solvency and stability for the future. While we are unable to predict how long the bankruptcy will take, our objective is to conclude it as soon as possible and obtain a confirmed plan to provide the district with a balanced budget for the next five to six years.

“Throughout my career as a mayor, senator and governor, I have been sensitive to striking the balance between the voice of the local taxpayers and the employees who work in our cities and towns."

Governor Chafee Orders Rhode Island Flags to Half-Staff to Honor the Memory of former R.I. Senator Lila M. Sapinsley

To honor the memory of Former Rhode Island Senator Lila M. Sapinsley, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today has ordered all Rhode Island flags across the State to half-staff on Friday (December 12) from sunrise to sunset.

Governor Chafee’s order applies to State flags on all public buildings and grounds in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

Statement from Governor Chafee on the passing of Lila Sapinsley

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said: “I was very saddened to learn of the passing of a dear family friend, Lila Sapinsley. She was a courageous and intelligent public servant who cared deeply for many Rhode Island causes, particularly issues that had an effect on women. In the 1960s, she was a key early supporter of my father. Lila also became my political mentor when she chaired our committee for the 1986 Constitutional Convention. She was the epitome of grace. It was a pleasure to serve with her. Today, Rhode Island lost a woman who dedicated many decades to making our State a better place to live and work.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding an Evaluation of a Traveler from West Africa at Landmark Medical Center

At the request of the Rhode Island Department of Health (HEALTH), a Rhode Islander returning from West Africa 17 days ago was evaluated at Landmark for mild symptoms. The evaluation suggested no presence of any significant disease. Yesterday, after the evaluation, the patient was sent home. The patient was part of the routine monitoring program set up by the Centers for Disease Control and administered by HEALTH.

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said, “On behalf of the State of Rhode Island, we appreciate the professionalism and service of the staff at Landmark. They were organized and effective. We are pleased that Landmark continues to actively participate in providing health care to our citizens, and that we are seeing collaboration among our hospitals, health-care professionals, first responders, and Rhode Island’s Health Department and Emergency Management Agency.”

Governor Chafee Orders U.S. and State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff During National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

In honor of National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, December 7, 2014, President Barack Obama has today requested the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct that the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff until sunset on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.

Accordingly, Governor Chafee has directed that, in addition to the flag of the United States, the Rhode Island flag fly at half-staff on all public buildings and grounds across the state on Sunday, December 7, until sunset.

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Today’s Decision for a Jury Trial in the Pension Lawsuit

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said, “I am pleased with Judge Taft-Carter’s decision to grant the State’s request for a jury trial in the pension cases. Nevertheless, I continue to hope that settlement discussions will be revisited when the General Assembly returns in January.”

Statement from Governor Chafee and Governor-Elect Raimondo

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee and Governor-elect Gina Raimondo met this afternoon at the State House to discuss plans for a seamless transition.

Governor Chafee said: “I was pleased to personally congratulate Governor-elect Raimondo. I look forward to working with the Governor-elect over the next two months to ensure she has everything necessary to prepare her for a successful start of her administration.”


Governor-elect Raimondo said: “I appreciated the opportunity to sit down with Governor Chafee today to ensure a smooth transition. Over the next two months, we will be working hard and assembling a topnotch team ready to hit the ground running on day one.”

Statement from the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding Data Sharing with the National Counterterrorism Center

A recent press release from the American Civil Liberties Union of Rhode Island reports that the Rhode Island Division of Motor Vehicles is one of 15 states sharing biometric data from drivers’ licenses with the National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC).

In regards to this allegation, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said: “On August 20, 2014, Anthony Silva, the Administrator for the DMV, received a letter inquiring about the reported transfer of data to NCTC. Since the receipt of the letter, my administration has done an investigation and has found no evidence of the proactive sharing of information with the NCTC. I look forward to working with the Rhode Island ACLU on this issue.”

For more information, contact: Anthony Silva, Administrator, Rhode Island DMV, 401-462-5705 or anthony.silva@dmv.ri.gov

Governor Chafee Calls for a Statewide Moment of Silence to Mark the Anniversary of the September 11 Terrorist Attacks

U.S. and State Flags to be Flown at Half-Staff During Patriot Day

and National Day of Service and Remembrance

To mark the thirteenth anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee will call for a voluntary statewide moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2014. In addition, in honor of Patriot Day and National Day of Service and Remembrance, President Obama has requested the Governors of the United States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, and the appropriate officials of all units of government, to direct the flag of the United States be flown at half-staff on all buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and in all areas under its jurisdiction and control.

Accordingly, Governor Chafee has directed that, in addition to the flag of the United States, the Rhode Island flag fly at half-staff on all public buildings and grounds across the state on Thursday, September 11, 2014.

“It is with great sadness that we prepare to mark the thirteenth anniversary of the September 11 attacks,” Governor Chafee said. “To honor that day’s many victims, from Rhode Island, across the country and around the world, I ask that Rhode Islanders observe a respectful moment of silence at 8:46 a.m. September 11 was a tragedy on every scale imaginable, and it is my hope that on its anniversary we are all able to engage in silent remembrance of those who were lost.”

Click here to view the President's proclamation for PATRIOT DAY AND NATIONAL DAY OF SERVICE AND REMEMBRANCE, 2014.

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding the Results of the Primary

Governor Chafee tonight said: “This primary season was particularly hard fought, and I want to congratulate the candidates for their hard work on the campaign trail. I am supporting all of the Democratic Party’s nominees, and regardless of party affiliation, I look forward to working with the new General Officers on their transition following the November election. I want to ensure that our State continues moving in the right direction by investing in education, infrastructure and workforce development, as well as ensuring the health of our cities and towns – the basic building blocks of a strong economy.”

Statement from Governor Chafee regarding the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement and FY14 General Fund Surplus

Today Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced that the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement, issued by the Department of Administration’s Office of Accounts and Control, shows the state ended fiscal year 2014 with a $68 million General Fund surplus.  General revenue expenditures were $16.1 million less than budgeted.  For each year of the current administration’s term, the state’s general revenue expenditures have been less than budgeted appropriations – $18 million less in 2011, $29 million less in 2012, and $17.8 million less in 2013.  This is the fourth year in a row that the state has seen strong closing surpluses – $64.2 million in FY11, $115.2 million in FY12, and $104.1 million in FY13.  $59.2 million of the surplus funds were accounted for in the FY15 budget as enacted by the General Assembly.

In addition, the FY14 Preliminary Closing Statement shows the budget reserve and cash stabilization account is fully funded with a balance of $177 million.  The Rhode Island Capital Plan Fund available balance is $124.4 million.

“I am very proud of our team of directors and state employees throughout all of state government who deserve significant credit for spending less than their enacted budget,” stated Governor Chafee.  “I am gratified once again that the state has ended each year that I have been Governor with a healthy surplus.  For the last two years, my administration has submitted a balanced budget on time and now, due to the strong fiscal management exhibited by our state agencies, we can announce that this is the fourth straight year in a row with state agencies coming in under budget.

“Recent economic indicators – including the steadily declining unemployment numbers, the increase in median house prices, continued economic growth in Q1 and Q2 and projected growth for Q3 – combined with this latest news of the state’s positive economic performance, show that together we are strengthening Rhode Island’s economy.  I am proud that my administration has set a strong platform for the next governor and the next stage in our state’s recovery.”

Online: http://controller.admin.ri.gov

 

Governor Chafee Orders the Rhode Island Flag to Half-Staff to Honor the Memory of Former United States Congressman Fernand St Germain

To honor the memory of Former U.S. Congressman Fernand St Germain, Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today has ordered all Rhode Island flags across the State to half-staff until Congressman St Germain is laid to rest. Governor Chafee’s order applies to State flags on all public buildings and grounds in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations.

Statement from Governor Chafee Relating to the Passing of Legendary Vermont Senator James Jeffords

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “On Behalf of the State of Rhode Island, I join the nation, along with Vermont, in mourning the loss of Jim Jeffords. Jim Jeffords made history in the spring of 2001 with his bold move out of the Republication Party. He will be remembered for sending a message to the rest of the country that he was not going to put partisan politics before his work in Washington, D.C. Throughout his distinguished and lengthy career, Jim cared deeply about our environment. He displayed fiscal common sense, and he developed government programs that build a strong middle class. He was also one of the 23 senators to have the courage and foresight to vote against the Iraq War Resolution. He was revered by all who knew him.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding the Passing of Legendary U.S. Congressman Fernand J. St Germain

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “We mourn the loss of former United States Congressman Fernand J. St Germain, who left a lasting impression on Rhode Island. He was a life-long Democrat who fiercely fought for the rights of the working and middle classes. From 1961 to 1989, he served Rhode Island’s First Congressional District in the U.S. Congress, and one of his accomplishments was a stint as the Chairman of the Committee on Banking, Finance, and Urban Affairs. Before representing Rhode Island in Washington, he was a valuable member of Rhode Island’s General Assembly where he became a respected and revered politician. On behalf of the State of Rhode Island, I send condolences to his family.”

Statement from Governor Chafee regarding the Investigation into the Contract for Concessions at Three Rhode Island State Beaches

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said today: “Rhode Island State Police officials have briefed me and continue to keep me apprised of the law enforcement agency’s active investigation into the contract for the concessions at three Rhode Island State Beaches.”

According to Governor Chafee’s Director of Communications Faye Zuckerman, state law provides in the Access to Public Records Act (APRA) a clear mandate that state agencies and the Office of the Governor do not release documents or information that might potentially adversely impact an ongoing investigation. The State Police determines what information can and cannot be released, and no state agency or the Governor’s Office will take action during any inquiries.

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Unaccompanied Children in the Southwest

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee said:“During a conference call between the federal government and the country’s governors yesterday, officials for the United States Departments of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services reported that the number of unaccompanied children coming across the border has tapered off. The need for large facilities has dissipated, and the officials added that they will notify the governors if and when an assessment of possible settings is required in the future. To date, no federal entity has reached out to the State of Rhode Island regarding housing the unaccompanied children. The Department of Health and Human Services said that most of the children have found shelter with relatives or family friends.”

Statement from Governor Chafee Regarding Unaccompanied Children in the Southwest

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: “The State of Rhode Island has not been officially contacted by any federal entity regarding either services or sheltering unaccompanied children who have crossed the U.S. border in the Southwest. If and when there is a request from the federal government, I will share it publicly.”

Statement From the Office of Governor Chafee Regarding His Support for An Act Authorizing State-Operated Casino Gaming at Newport Grand

Governor Chafee today reiterated his wholehearted support for An Act Relating to State Affairs and Government – Authorizing State-Operated Casino Gaming at Newport Grand Subject to Statewide and Local Voter Approval,H 8294, Substitute A/2, As Amended.

The Governor, who signed the Act, said, “I support casino gaming in Newport, both as a revenue generator and as a bulwark against competition from a potential casino in southeastern Massachusetts.”

The Act authorizes a local and statewide referendum to approve casino gaming in Newport. If approved by the voters, the new legislation provides that certain payments will be made to the City of Newport.

Statement Regarding Rhode Island Commerce Corporation’s Settlement with Certain Defendants in Pending 38 Studios Lawsuit

As Chairman of the Board of the Directors of the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation (RICC), Governor Lincoln D. Chafee announced today that a proposed settlement between the RICC and Antonio Afonso, Jr. and Moses Afonso Ryan Ltd. was filed today in the Rhode Island Superior Court. The proposed settlement is contingent upon approval by the Superior Court in the pending litigation.

The settlement provides for payment to the RICC of the gross sum of $4,370,000. This sum represents the full amount remaining of these settling defendants’ insurance coverage, less a sum of $200,000 set aside to pay the legal fees of these individual settling defendants in the pending action and related lawsuits or proceedings. Although the original coverage limits on this insurance policy were $5,000,000, the insurance policy provides that all defense costs are deducted from the coverage limits. Defense costs to date have been approximately $430,000.

The settling defendants have not acknowledged or admitted any liability or wrongdoing in connection with the matters on which the pending litigation is based. To the contrary, they maintain their original position that they have no liability and committed no wrongdoing. The settlement agreement states that the RICC and the settling defendants are mindful of the inherent uncertainty of litigation, and the financial costs associated with the ongoing prosecution and/or defense of same.

Under these circumstances, the RICC and the above-named settling defendants have agreed that this settlement is reasonable. The RICC’s litigation is still going forward against other defendants who are not included in this settlement.

“The proposed settlement is a step in the right direction, and I hope this is the beginning of a positive resolution to the 38 Studios saga,” Governor Chafee said.

Statement from Governor Lincoln D. Chafee Regarding His Intention to Sign the FY 2015 Budget

Governor Lincoln D. Chafee today said: "The FY 2015 budget passed by the General Assembly, which I intend to sign into law, presents many of my initiatives and some modifications that are encouraging.

"First and foremost, I was pleased that the debate on whether to pay the 38 Studios moral obligation bond ended with the right decision for Rhode Island. I have been unequivocal in my belief that we must honor our debts, however painful. Second, the General Assembly’s FY 2015 budget has a plan to eliminate the toll on the Sakonnet River Bridge by charging a 1-cent gas tax. I have been adamant that absent tolling a reasonable alternative be reached. The reality is we cannot afford to see another bridge completely replaced – at great cost to taxpayers – because of a lack of maintenance.

"I am heartened and commend the legislature for investing in education and our public schools. The budget retains the education aid formula and a tuition freeze for Community College of Rhode Island, Rhode Island College and University of Rhode Island. The $125 million voter bond to enhance URI’s College of Engineering complex will attract and retain talent and is another commendable investment in the future. With the approval of the lease for the Nursing Education Center, which will be headquartered in the former South Street Power Station, the budget buoys my long-term strategy to strengthen the “meds and eds” and grow our Knowledge District. In addition, the $1.5 million for workforce development is a meaningful commitment to worker training and closing the skills gap.

"I was pleased that the voter bonds I had proposed were included in this year’s ballot. The bonds reflect important strategies to grow our economy through improving infrastructure and higher education; enlarging our arts and cultural economy; and protecting Rhode Island’s environment. By maintaining my proposed aid to cities and towns, we continue our work with the municipalities to reverse the damage caused by the previous administration.

"Since taking office, I have proposed reducing the state’s corporate tax rate from 9 percent to 7 percent. I applaud the General Assembly for taking this step through combined reporting to make us more competitive. We need to be mindful that with any budget we put forth, it must be focused on priorities and strategies that send a clear and consistent message far beyond our borders that we honor our commitments, and that the leaders in our state are doing all they can to make Rhode Island a great place to live and work."