In her 32nd year of service to the City of Newport, Vice Mayor Beth Fennell announced today that she will not seek reelection as a member of the Newport City Commission in 2024.
As one of the longest-serving elected officials in the area, Fennell said the decision was not easy and would miss representing Newport’s citizens.
“I have been fortunate to see Newport evolve from a downtrodden city, which many residents hoped to flee, to a vibrant community where people from all parts of the area and country want to live,” Fennell said.
Fennell said it has been gratifying to continue her family’s love and involvement with the city that started with her great-great grandparents arriving in the 1840s with her great grandfather Fennell’s stove and heating business in the 1890s, and her great grandparents Purser’s Horseshoe and Livery business on Monmouth.
“I am humbled and eternally grateful to the voters of Newport, past and present, who had faith in me and supported me through the years,” Fennell said. “It was an honor to serve them. The city is in good hands and the success will continue. I will still be involved on some level with our dear city.”