Woonsocket Council votes to raise budget levy to 5.5 percent amid financial struggles

The Woonsocket City Council convened on June 2, 2025, to address pressing budgetary concerns, ultimately approving a significant tax levy increase of 5.5%. This decision comes in response to financial challenges stemming from previous administrations, as highlighted by several council members during the meeting.

Councilwoman Sierra expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts in preparing the budget but acknowledged the difficult reality of raising taxes. She emphasized the need for residents to understand that the current council is addressing the financial burdens left by past leadership. "We have to fulfill a budget, and we have to pave roads, and we have to put kids on buses to get to school," she stated, urging residents to direct their concerns to the city administration.

Councilwoman Fox echoed these sentiments, noting the painful nature of the budget process but underscoring the importance of stability for the city. She pointed out the elimination of the economic development position as a tough but necessary decision, advocating for a proactive approach to attract new businesses and events to Woonsocket. "If we build more of this, it will come," she said, encouraging fellow council members to act as ambassadors for the city.

Councilman Dubois also weighed in, expressing his discomfort with the tax increase but recognizing it as a necessary step to avoid deeper financial issues in the future. He reiterated that the current council is dealing with the consequences of past mismanagement, stating, "This is the sins of the past administration that we all have to pay for."

Mayor Beauchamp acknowledged the challenges faced by the council and the administration, emphasizing the need for efficiency and exploring alternative revenue sources. He highlighted ongoing discussions about potential city property sales and grant opportunities to mitigate the impact of the budget cuts.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment among council members to navigate these financial challenges while prioritizing the needs of the community, particularly vulnerable populations such as the elderly on fixed incomes. As Woonsocket moves forward, the council's decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the city's financial health and overall quality of life for its residents.