City Councilors Xay Khamsyvoravong, David Carlin, and Steph Smyth Call for Special Meeting to Address Environmental and Public Health Concerns

Newport, RI – January 21, 2025 – City Councilors Xay Khamsyvoravong, David Carlin, and Steph Smyth are jointly calling for a Special Meeting of the Newport City Council under the authority granted by Section 2-17 of the City Charter, which allows any three members of the Council to request such a meeting. The session shall address urgent concerns surrounding alleged unauthorized dumping at Easton's Pond and the status of the City’s lead pipe remediation program and overall water quality.

Concerns Regarding Easton's Pond

Recent reports and observations of alleged unauthorized dumping activities at Easton’s Pond have rightly raised questions and concerns among Newporters. Easton’s Pond – and the surrounding watershed – play a vital role in providing clean, safe water to Newport residents, and any potential contamination that could pose a serious risk to public health and the environment warrants a rigorous review.

Status of Lead Pipe Remediation Program & Water Quality

At the same time, the City has made progress in its lead pipe remediation efforts, but ongoing challenges – including aging infrastructure and a clear, comprehensive understanding of the pathway and safety of these measures within the community – remain.

Request for Appropriate Representation

Councilors Khamsyvoravong, Carlin, and Smyth also request that the administration have the appropriate City officials in attendance at this Special Meeting. The meeting should be an opportunity for the public and Council to engage directly with all involved entities to learn more about the actions being taken to protect Newport’s ecosystem, water resources, and public health.

Statement from Councilor Xay Khamsyvoravong:

“We need to address the quality of our drinking water head on by working together. Residents have done their job letting the Council know their concerns, and deserve answers and solutions. Now the Council needs to do its job of coming together with the administration to get the facts on the table and a solution in motion.”

Statement from Councilor Steph Smyth:

“Our residents deserve clear answers and decisive action on these critical issues. By holding a Special Meeting that engages the full strength of the City Council and City government, we can ensure accountability and the transparency needed to tackle problems head-on within a public forum.”