Eight years have gone by since I stood on the steps of Providence City Hall and raised my hand to take the oath of office as this city's 36th mayor. That wintry day was one I remember as filled with great hope and anticipation for what was ahead. These years have been challenging and exciting and more gratifying than I could ever have imagined when I began this journey. I am in awe of the spirit and determination of the residents of this city, who have worked so hard together to build and sustain our thriving community, even in the most difficult times.
Over the years, I have met and worked with so many fine leaders of business and industry, real estate and finance, profit and non-profit alike. Though our charges are different charges, we have shared a common goal of building a strong community by creating jobs and opportunity for the people we serve.
I will take to Washington the invaluable lessons I have learned as Mayor about the power of what is possible when we put the needs of community first. I have gained a deeply practical perspective from my experience as mayor that I hope will help to bridge the gap between federal policy developed in Washington and the kinds of initiatives and investments that can really make an immediate difference in people's everyday lives.
The dialogue I have been privileged to share with the residents and businesses of this city over the years—in print and in person—has provided so much insight and inspiration to me. I hope you will continue this conversation with me as I take to Congress our concerns about growing our state's economy by investing in infrastructure, supporting manufacturing and small business, and continuing to revamp and revitalize public education for the 21st century. Write to me, email me, or come see me in Washington or at the public office hours I will hold regularly throughout the district. Let me know what you think about what's working—or not working—for the people of our great state.
As mayor-elect Angel Taveras prepares to take the oath of office at City Hall, I am once again filled with hope and great confidence for the future of this wonderful city. I trust you will work with him as you have worked with me to make Providence everything it can be.
Have a happy and healthy holiday season.
David Cicilline is the mayor of Providence.