Bristol Election Profile: Tony Teixeira

BRISTOL, RI —Antonio (Tony) A. Teixeira is running for a seat on the Bristol Town Council. The 64-year-old Independent currently serves on the council.

Teixeira has a master's degree in counseling education. He served as a teacher and administration for 31 years, from 1978 until 2009. He has served two terms on the Town Council, the first from 2010 to 2012 and from 2018 to the present. Teixeira also served as the town administrator for four years, as well as the appointed Town Administrator in Little Compton from Dec. 2018 to the present.

He and his wife, Jacqueline, have six children and nine grandchildren.

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to continue to serve the citizens of the community that adopted me and has given me many opportunities since I arrived from the Azores. Many projects have been initiated during my tenure and I want see them to fruition.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

We need to follow the recommendations from the health professionals and wear masks. As to what can be done to lessen the economic impact — work with and support the local businesses.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

I do believe that racism is a problem across the country, including in Rhode Island. We need to treat others as we like to be treated regardless of color or ethnicity.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

Yes

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I bring a range of experience from the years of service at the various levels. I have lived in the community for 50 years.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

NA

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Continue to support the infrastructure projects; road paving, sewer, sidewalks construction, the addition to the marina for additional docks, the fuel station and continue to watch the budget and the taxes.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

My years of service as a Councilor and my years as Administrator and initiatives; start a road paving program, the purchase of the Prudence Ferry dock, the purchase of the two Azevedo buildings on Thames Street to that have them rehabbed, supported the start of the downtown hanging baskets, ...

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Care for your community and treat others as you want to be treated!

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I will continue to do my best at all times with the best interest of Bristol at heart!