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Council approves May Fourth Group lobbyist contract after divided debate, 3‑2
Summary
After extended debate over cost and value, the council voted 3–2 to approve a contract with the May Fourth Group for lobbyist services (contract rate discussed at $4,500/month; annualized roughly $54,000). Supporters said a dedicated presence in Providence yields large returns; opponents cited the town—s budget pressures.
The Town Council approved an agreement with consultancy May Fourth Group to provide lobbyist services after a contested debate that split the board 3–2.
The contract—s monthly fee of $4,500 was discussed extensively during the meeting; opponents argued the $54,000 annual cost is large for a small town amid projected statewide budget constraints, and suggested the town—s state senator and representative should be relied upon instead. Supporters said the firm—s day‑to‑day presence in Providence, the firm—s recent work securing grants and legislative support, and the difficulty of maintaining a continuous in‑state presence from the island justify the expense.
Councilors in favor cited recent results obtained with lobbyist assistance, including grant funding that benefited the town and housing board efforts, and emphasized that other stakeholders and nearby municipalities maintain such representation in Providence. Opponents said they preferred to first exhaust direct engagement with state legislators and the League of Cities and Towns given the current fiscal picture.
The motion to approve the agreement was moved and seconded during the meeting; the roll call vote was not read into the transcript by name, but the clerk announced the outcome as a 3–2 approval. Staff later confirmed the contract commenced in January and the council will pay for eleven months under the current arrangement.
Following the vote, councilors directed staff to coordinate the lobbyist firm—s priorities with the council—s updated 2025 legislative agenda and to ensure the town manager and department heads serve as the firm—s primary contacts for operational direction.
