Newport commissioners rejected the city’s roughly $58,000 Southbank Partners membership payment this week, citing concerns about transparency, oversight and unfinished projects. The Newport City Commission voted 3-2 Monday against paying its annual dues to Southbank Partners at its Sept. 14 meeting. Commissioners Ken Rechtin, Mike Radwanski and Vice Mayor Julie Smith-Morrow voted no, while Mayor […]
Tag: Julie Smith-Morrow
Posted inNews
Newport to advance medical marijuana discussion with split vote
As many municipalities around the region have already passed legislation regarding medical marijuana in their cities, Newport has been meticulous in its process. The Newport Board of Commissioners held the first reading of an ordinance regarding medical marijuana in August 2024; however, now that time has passed and a new board member has joined, they […]
Posted inNews
Newport creates new roles to enhance engagement with residents, businesses
Newport is hiring new city roles, including a municipal and community liaison who will engage with the public and an economic development coordinator to attract and retain businesses.
Posted inNews
Newport Police Department considers adding social worker
Newport City Commission has approved the first reading of an ordinance to add a police social worker to the department, funded by the opioid settlement funds, to help limit the number of calls police officers have to respond to situations outside their training.
Posted in2024 Primary Election, Elections, News, Politics
Newport’s top vote getter named vice mayor
Vice Mayor Julie Smith-Morrow received the most votes in the Newport City Commission race earning her the title of vice mayor.
Posted inNews
Tom Fromme reflects on a 44-year career
Tom Fromme, a third-generation resident of Newport, is set to retire after 44 years of service, having served as police chief and city manager and leaving a legacy of civic pride and successful development projects.
Posted inNews
Newport police provide update on shootings amid misinformation
Newport Assistant Police Chief Herschel Day updated the Newport Commission on the three shootings the city has experienced this year, stating that all three remain open and the police department is actively investigating each case.
Posted inNews
Medical cannabis in Newport? Commission mulls possibilites, faces opposition
Newport Commissioners Julie Smith-Morrow, Mike Radwanski and mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. expressed interest in allowing medical cannabis operations in the city, while Commissioner Ken Rechtin intends to vote no, and multiple residents spoke at the meeting asking the city to vote no.
Posted inCulture
Newport to explore implementation of façade grant program for Buena Vista
Newport City Commission voted to explore creating a façade grant program to help residents of the local Buena Vista Historic District make improvements and repairs to their homes.
Posted inCulture
Newport commission discusses local Buena Vista historic district
Newport held a first reading on adopting the Buena Vista Local Historic District, with support from Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr., commissioners Beth Fennell, Julie Smith-Morrow, and Ken Rechtin, and opposition from commissioner Mike Radwanski.