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Resident urges council to press federal representatives on proposed Department of Defense spending cuts
Summary
A Newport resident told the council the community could be harmed if proposed Department of Defense cuts proceed and asked the council to consider a resolution urging state and federal lawmakers to act.
Resident Mike Goldstein, of 107 Bellevue Avenue, used the citizens forum to urge the Newport City Council to consider action after reports that the Department of Defense plans annual spending cuts of about 8% per year for five years. Goldstein said many residents work for the Navy and that job losses would ripple through the local economy.
A councilor thanked Goldstein for raising the issue and suggested the council prepare a resolution for consideration at the next meeting to alert federal and state representatives about potential local harm. The council did not vote on a resolution at the meeting; members directed staff to draft language for a future agenda.
Goldstein framed the concern as economic: job losses could reduce patronage at local businesses and affect housing and consumer decisions. Councilors noted the city had experienced federal defense‑related economic impacts in the past and said a formal resolution could underline local stakes to legislators.
