Murray Thanks All Supporters

To the editor,

I would like to thank all my supporters, from the folks who signed my nomination papers back in July to those who worked the polls for me that chilly Election Day.

It must be understood that I am not a politician per say but a lifelong resident who cannot stand by and watch our town be systematically razed by special interest or lackadaisical politicians who believe they have been doing a great job.  

I believe we have left an indelible impression with the political class in our town.  Our campaign position was sixth in a five-seat race, but we were all responsible for providing constituents with a clear choice in ideology (Conservatism). This choice provides all citizens and town workers with ownership of their town government through accountability and awareness. 

In the next two years this council needs to make contract changes with town employees.  Change is not easy after years of protectionism and unsustainable benefit packages.  Change will come either by an elected Narragansett Town Council with the political stomach to do so, or a court-appointed judge through Chapter 9. 

I did address the town council on its first night in session, Nov. 19, to congratulate our new town council, and below is an outline of that address:

Good evening, I would like to congratulate all of you on your successful campaigns and re-appointment or new appointment to this council.  I myself was humbled by my experience and I can appreciate first hand your commitment and devotion to our community. I do have a brief statement.

Tonight, this council sheds its old skin and begins anew.  Many difficult decisions regarding the town’s financial sovereignty lie ahead but this council’s most daunting task is to restore confidence and trust in our town government. 

Constituent apathy runs deep in this community.  I implore all citizens to rid yourself of apathetic thoughts and to turn apathy to accountability, mistrust to awareness of your town government. 

Do not give up on this grand old lady Narragansett – she turns 125 years and she is ill with a financial deficiency.  Her prescription is revenue through growth and reduced spending, and not taxation.  We need to get her to her feet and nurse her back to health. 

A town without citizen participation and awareness of its town government is in itself bad government. God save our town, thank you. 

In closing, our unfunded liability is now at $143 million, or about $8,950 per resident.

- Patrick Murray