Isaacs Wants To Continue Consolidation, Structural Improvements

Michael Isaacs is running for re-election to a fifth term on the East Greenwich Town Council to continue what he calls the panel's "fiscally responsible policies," while holding down property taxes. 

In response to a questionnaire emailed to Town Council candidates, Isaacs said his overriding concern is to keep property taxes stable. "Personnel costs of the town and schools are the largest expenditures, so these must be given particular attention," he said.

Isaacs also noted the importance of continuing consolidation: "Another priority will be continuation of structural changes in government, consolidation and shared services."

A third area of concern for Isaacs is repairs for roads and sidewalks. "We need to address this by shifting funding to this capital improvements area," he said. "As we have taken on other projects, this basic function has fallen behind."

Isaacs said the Fire District should be merged with the town. "I am of the opinion that we have too much government in Rhode Island. I have continually looked for ways to make structural changes in government that will result in greater efficiencies in the future and provide for better governance," he said.

Isaacs said "employee costs and benefits" are one area to look at for savings going forward. He also suggests the town take over more administrative functions for the schools. 

"Generally, I believe that services within the School Department that do not involve educational policy should be considered for consolidation with the municipal side of government," he said.

One area Isaacs said he would not want to cut was the police department. "The size of the East Greenwich police department is appropriate to our size and is in line with or below staffing levels in other communities," he said.

Isaacs said the Financial Town Meeting has outlived its usefulness: "The Financial Town Meeting is not the democratic institution that it once was. It derives from a time when the town had a smaller population that was less mobile. Now, our population is larger, our residents travel for business and pleasure, and people have multiple commitments for their time."

When asked why residents should vote for him, Isaacs said, 

"I have extensive experience as an attorney and business executive. I have brought this expertise to my analysis of town issues. I look for ways in which municipal government can operate like an efficient business, with a concern for its customers – the taxpayers. My approach is to develop practical solutions and foster teamwork. This has enabled us to establish a record of accomplishments and fiscal responsibility, which includes – good management practices, control of operating and employee costs, spending discipline, highest bond rating in the state, no new vehicle taxes, consolidation, shared services, increased senior services, successful town construction projects."

Michael Isaacs is one of six people seeking a term on the five-person Town Council. East Greenwich Patch is publishing candidate responses to questionnaires this week. To read Michael Isaacs's full responses to the questionnaire, click here.

To read about Jeff Cianciolo, click here. To read about Jean Ann Guliano click here. To read about Brad Bishop, click here. To read about Mike Kiernan, click here. To read about Mark Gee, click here.