D'Ellena's Platform
Coastal Access
I understand how vital our coastline is to the community's identity, economy, and quality of life. Coastal access is not just about enjoying the natural beauty of our shores; it’s about preserving a way of life that has been cherished by generations. Our beaches, fishing spots, and waterfronts are the heart of our town, attracting visitors and providing recreation and livelihood for locals.
I successfully organized a petition against the implementation of 3-hour parking limit signs, gathering over 3,500 signatures from concerned residents and visitors. Twice, I have helped prevent these restrictive parking measures at the state level, preserving convenient access to our beloved coastline. By standing up for open and unrestricted coastal access, I’m committed to ensuring that everyone—from local families to tourists—can continue to enjoy Narragansett's shores without unnecessary barriers.
Coastal access is a cornerstone of our community, and I will continue to fight to protect it, ensuring that Narragansett remains a place where everyone can experience the beauty and benefits of our coastline.
Restoring the Strong Sense of Community in Narragansett
Narragansett has always been more than just a town; it’s a place where full-time residents, tourists, and college students alike have found a sense of belonging. Our community has long been a vibrant mix of people who all contribute to the unique character and charm of our town. Whether you’re a local family with deep roots, a visitor enjoying our beautiful coastline, or a student building a future, Narragansett has been a place where everyone feels at home.
I believe that a strong community is built on trust, collaboration, and shared values. That’s why I’m committed to restoring the sense of community in Narragansett. This means actively listening to residents’ concerns, supporting our local businesses, and creating opportunities for neighbors to connect and support one another. Whether it’s through town events, improving public services, or ensuring that every voice is heard in our local government, we must foster an environment where everyone—residents, tourists, and students alike—feels like they belong and can contribute.
Defending Property Rights
Property rights are a cornerstone of our freedoms and a vital part of what makes Narragansett a great place to live, work, and invest. As a community, we value the ability to own and manage property without undue interference, and this right must be vigorously protected. Whether you’re a homeowner, a landlord, or a small business owner, your property represents not just a place, but a significant investment and a piece of your livelihood.
In recent years, we’ve seen attempts to infringe upon these rights through restrictive ordinances and regulations that threaten to diminish the value and control that property owners have long enjoyed. As your representative on the Town Council, I will stand firm against any measures that seek to undermine property rights in Narragansett.
I believe that responsible ownership and respect for property rights are key to maintaining a vibrant and thriving community. That’s why I’m committed to opposing unnecessary restrictions that hurt landlords, homeowners, and renters alike. For example, I have taken a strong stand against ordinances that infringe on the rights of landlords, particularly those that would make it more difficult for them to rent to college students who rely on affordable housing options.
Senior Services
Our senior citizens have played an integral role in shaping the community we cherish today, and ensuring they have access to quality services is a top priority for me. As our population ages, it’s more important than ever to provide the support and resources that allow our seniors to live healthy, active, and fulfilling lives right here in Narragansett.
One of the key areas where we can make a real difference is in enhancing senior services and ensuring that our older residents have the transportation they need to stay connected and engaged. I am committed to continuing to fund and expand the transportation services between the Narragansett and South Kingstown Senior Centers. This vital link not only provides convenient access to essential services, programs, and social activities but also fosters a sense of community among our seniors.
The Point Judith Harbor breakwater has been crucial in supporting our bustling fishing fleet and accommodating numerous recreational vessels, particularly during the summer months. However, erosion and neglect have taken a toll on its structural integrity, leaving it vulnerable to storms. This degradation not only threatens the safety of our fishing fleet and harbor but also puts nearby homes and businesses at risk.
The Point Judith seawall has long been a vital part of our community’s maritime heritage, providing protection and security for both commercial and recreational activities. Yet, in recent years, the wear and tear on this critical infrastructure have reached a point where immediate action is necessary. If left unaddressed, the weakened seawall could lead to severe damage during storm events, endangering lives, livelihoods, and property.
I have taken proactive steps to advocate for the rebuilding and reinforcement of the Point Judith seawall. I have worked closely with state legislators to put forth a resolution requesting the Army Corps of Engineers to prioritize the repair of the breakwater. This resolution is a crucial step in securing the federal support and resources needed to restore the seawall to its full strength.
I’ve been actively engaging with local stakeholders, including fishermen, business owners, and residents, to ensure that the needs of our community are fully represented in the planning and execution of this project. By bringing together a coalition of concerned citizens and officials, we can push for the necessary repairs to be completed without delay, ensuring that our harbor remains safe and functional for generations to come.
Reviving the Point Judith Breakwater
Protecting Our Natural Environment: Standing Against Offshore Wind
Narragansett’s natural beauty is one of our greatest treasures. Our pristine coastline, vibrant marine ecosystems, and unspoiled landscapes are not only integral to our way of life but also to our local economy, which thrives on tourism, fishing, and recreation. However, these precious resources are now under threat from offshore wind projects that could have far-reaching consequences for our environment and community.
While renewable energy is an important part of our future, we must carefully consider the impact of such projects on our local environment before moving forward. The proposed offshore wind farms pose significant risks to our marine life, including the disruption of fish habitats and migration patterns that our local fishing industry depends on. Additionally, the construction and operation of these wind farms could lead to long-term ecological damage, including noise pollution, water quality issues, and harm to marine mammals.
As a community that values its natural surroundings, we cannot allow these risks to go unchecked. I am committed to standing against offshore wind projects that threaten our environment and way of life. We must prioritize the protection of our coastal and marine ecosystems, ensuring that any development in our waters is sustainable, responsible, and truly in the best interest of our community.