To the Editor,

To read the front-page article “Shaking up Edgewood Residents, Laundromat Working to Address Neighborhood Vibration Issues,” reporting on the quality-of-life matter brought before the Cranston City Council demonstrated what city government looks like when a Ward Councilwoman works on behalf of her constituents.

I applaud Council Vice-President Lammis Vargas for speaking up and speaking out for her people and working diligently to protect their homes and health.

It was encouraging to witness that in this instance of vibration, noise and toxins disrupting people’s lives, no one showed indifference. Not one member of the Council, or Chief of Staff Anthony Moretti, suggested to the people of Edgewood that they should leave their homes – make other arrangements –  while the Council and the administration figure out what to do.

Vice-President Vargas brought the issue before the Council immediately upon receiving complaints. It didn’t take years to get her attention. The people of Ward 1were not told, “It doesn’t bother me. You don’t matter; go away.”

To hear the entire Council express the sentiment “Your problem is our problem” was simply stunning.

Every Cranston resident has the right to the safe and peaceful enjoyment of their home. Whether it’s vibration from a laundromat, the expansion of a gravel pit that’s cracking foundations and coating our homes in dust and dirt, or gunfire terrorizing a community, it all needs to stop. If there are gaps in city ordinances to protect the citizens of Cranston, then new laws need to be passed – and enforced.

Assistant Solicitor John Verdecchia informed the Council, “The City Council has all the power of the city to do what’s best to promote the health, safety, welfare, and morals of its citizens.”

It’s time now for the Council to use that power to protect all citizens – in every ward – without fear or favor.

Martha DiMeo

Cranston, Ward 5