Bucci seeks Ward 6 seat

Paul Bucci, a Democrat and former member of Cranston’s School Committee, is seeking the Ward 6 seat on the City Council in this year’s election.

“I am running for City Council because I want to make sure Ward 6 has a councilperson that is accessible and accountable to the people,” Bucci said in a campaign announcement. “It is so important that people know who their elected officials are. So often, they have problems and they do not know who to turn to. I want to make sure the residents of Ward 6 have a councilperson that will listen to their concerns and help them resolve their problems. I promise accessibility and accountability to the people of Ward 6.”

Bucci, 51, served on the School Committee from 1994 to 1998, shortly after his 1992 graduation from the University of Rhode Island. A lifelong city resident and native of the Eden Park neighborhood, he has lived in Dean Estates for more than 20 years with his wife and two sons. He has taught social studies at Cranston High School East for 18 years and serves as a cross country and track coach at Cranston East and Cranston High School West.

Bucci is seeking the Ward 6 seat being vacated by Republican Michael Favicchio, the council’s vice president, who cannot seek reelection due to term limits. Republican Matthew Reilly is also running for the seat.

In his announcement Bucci called “maintaining and improving” the city’s public schools a “top priority.” He supports the $147 million bond question meant to fund a major school facilities project, which will go before voters in November.

“A great public-school system attracts new homeowners to our city, creates a stable and expanding tax base, and most importantly, ensures a bright future for our children,” Bucci said in his announcement.

Bucci also cites his support for economic development in the city but said a “neighborhoods first approach” is required.

“I have lived in Dean Estates for over 20 years and have witnessed the economic growth of Garden City and Chapel View,” he said. “I am all for economic development and for the enhancing of our business climate, but our neighborhoods, communities, and quality of life must come first. We can welcome new businesses to Cranston, and make sure the needs and concerns of our residents are heard and represented and I will do just that as the Ward 6 Councilman.”

Bucci’s statement congratulates Favicchio for his service and touts support from other elected officials, including state Rep. Robert Jacquard and School Committee Chairman Dan Wall, who represents Ward 6.

“Paul will be a tireless worker for the residents of Ward 6. As a lifelong resident and a career public servant, Paul knows the city of Cranston and he will be a strong advocate for his constituents,” Jacquard said in the announcement.

“Paul is a role model for his students and for his student athletes. He brings energy to his classroom every day,” Wall said in the announcement. “He will bring that same energy to the Cranston City Council on behalf of the residents of Ward 6.”

Farina receives IBPO Local 301’s endorsement

The city’s police union has formally endorsed City Council President Michael Farina’s bid for mayor.

Farina, a Republican, announced the endorsement from IBPO Local 301 – which has been expected – in a press release last week. Farina has also received the backing of the city’s firefighters union.

“Our Union’s leadership has supported Councilman Farina’s run for Mayor from the moment he announced his candidacy … Michael Farina has demonstrated consistent leadership throughout his years on the City Council and as City Council President,” Michael Caramante, Local 301’s president, said in the release. “He has been a committed partner and advocate with the law enforcement community during the toughest of times. Our Police Union shares his vision to improve public safety in the great community we serve. We look forward to working collaboratively with him as he leads the City as our next Mayor.”

“The endorsements I received by both the Police and Firefighter Unions of Cranston further validates that I am the candidate of choice to partner with our City’s finest. We share the same vision for Cranston: a safe environment for all residents where community-building remains a priority,” Farina said in the release.

Gallo backs Zelazo’s council bid

State Sen. Hanna Gallo (D-Dist. 27, Cranston) has endorsed Dylan Zelazo’s candidacy for a citywide seat on the City Council.

Zelazo is part of a four-person Democratic citywide field that includes School Committee member Paul Archetto, Jessica Marino and Larry Warner. Zelazo, Archetto and Warner received the endorsement of the Cranston Democratic City Committee late last month. Three of the candidates will advance to the November general election ballot based on the results of the Sept. 8 primary.

“Cranston is a wonderful place, and we need new leaders to keep our city moving forward,” Gallo said in a press release. “Dylan Zelazo has a proven track record of leadership in Rhode Island local government. He is committed to improving our public schools and protecting our taxpayers.”

“I am grateful for Senator Gallo’s support,” Zelazo said in the release. “She represents Cranston with distinction at the State House. The Senator cares deeply for the future of our city, and I am proud to have earned her endorsement.”

Zelazo, who serves as Pawtucket’s director of administration, previously received the endorsement of state Rep. Chris Millea (D-Dist. 16, Cranston) and Ward 1 Councilwoman Lammis Vargas.

Political Winds is a semi-regular feature focused on the 2020 election campaign. Candidates or those with political news may contact Daniel Kittredge, editor, at 732-3100, ext. 234, or dan@rhodybeat.com.