Special Committee on Ways and Means | Public Hearing | June 8th, 2026

Audio testing and preliminary setup occur before the meeting officially begins. No legislative business is conducted during this period.

Councilor Miguel Sanchez calls the public hearing of the Special Committee on Ways and Means to order. He introduces the committee members and staff present for the budget discussion.

Michelle Wilcox, CEO of Crossroads Rhode Island, speaks in support of the proposed budget grant for homelessness services. She highlights the organization's efforts in providing permanent supportive housing and case management for vulnerable residents.

Kalimara Ojekri from Amos House presents the Hand Up program, which employs residents to clean and beautify city neighborhoods. Councilor Vargas commends the program for its positive impact on the community's appearance and the participants' skills.

Suzanne Burnaby of the Downtown Providence Park Network discusses the organization's mission to activate public spaces through events and wayfinding projects. She requests continued city funding to support free public programming and community well-being.

Emily Desquois describes the GOAT team's work in providing trauma-informed support to victims of domestic violence and child abuse. She emphasizes the importance of pairing social service professionals with law enforcement to assist families in crisis.

Lifelong resident Amber Heard provides public comment regarding the importance of community support programs. She urges the council to continue investing in initiatives that benefit local residents.

Cheryl Spates, Executive Director of the Community Library of Providence, requests additional funding to maintain library operating hours. Councilor Sanchez expresses support for the libraries and indicates that the council will address the funding request during the amendment process.

Tatiana Baena, Executive Director of the Providence After School Alliance, speaks in support of the FY 2027 budget allocation for youth programming. She highlights how the organization creates belonging and opportunity for middle and high school students.

Nirvila Fortune, Executive Director of City Year Rhode Island, presents data on the program's success in improving student academic performance and attendance. She advocates for increased city investment to sustain the organization's near-to-peer coaching model in schools.

The chair concludes the public hearing after confirming there are no further speakers. The meeting is adjourned with a reminder of the upcoming budget amendment discussion on Wednesday.