Who are the Mayors of Warwick, Rhode Island?
Warwick, Rhode Island is a city that has had a long history of leadership under the guidance of various mayors. From its first mayor in 1931 to the current one, the city has been fortunate to have leaders who have contributed to its growth and development. The mayoral position in Warwick is an important one as the city is the second largest in the state, and the mayor is responsible for managing its affairs and addressing the needs of its residents.
Mayor Frank Picozzi: The Current Mayor of Warwick
Frank Picozzi is the current mayor of Warwick, having been elected in November 2020. Prior to his mayoral appointment, he was a member of the city council for over two decades. Picozzi has focused on issues related to public safety, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. He has been a vocal advocate for the city and its residents, working to create a more sustainable and prosperous future for Warwick.
Previous Mayors of Warwick: A Historical Overview
Warwick has had many mayors since its first, Charles Donovan, took office in 1931. Each one has left their own unique mark on the city. Some of the more notable mayors include Vincent A. Cianci Jr., who was known for his controversial tenure and eventual resignation after being convicted of corruption charges, and Scott Avedisian, who served as the longest-tenured mayor of Warwick for over 18 years. Other former mayors include Joseph J. Solomon, Bruce Sundlun, Lincoln D. Chafee, James A. McNamara, and Henry T. L. Oxnard.
Mayor Joseph J. Solomon: The 18th Mayor of Warwick
Joseph J. Solomon served as the 18th mayor of Warwick, having taken office in 2018. Before that, he was the president of the city council. During his tenure, Solomon focused on initiatives related to public safety, economic development, and improving the city’s infrastructure. He was also instrumental in securing funding for the renovation of Warwick’s historic City Hall.
Mayor Scott Avedisian: Longest-Serving Mayor of Warwick
Scott Avedisian served as the mayor of Warwick for over 18 years, from 2000 to 2018. During his tenure, Avedisian was known for his efforts to improve the city’s economy and infrastructure. He was also an advocate for education and worked to improve the city’s schools. After leaving office, Avedisian was appointed as the CEO of the Rhode Island Public Transit Authority.
Mayor Bruce Sundlun: The Only Governor to Serve as Mayor
Bruce Sundlun was the mayor of Warwick from 1975 to 1979. He was also the governor of Rhode Island from 1991 to 1995. During his time as mayor, Sundlun focused on reducing crime and improving the city’s infrastructure. He was instrumental in securing funding for the construction of the T.F. Green Airport Terminal.
Mayor Lincoln D. Chafee: From Mayor to Governor
Lincoln D. Chafee served as the mayor of Warwick from 1992 to 1999 before being elected as a U.S. Senator and later becoming the governor of Rhode Island. During his time as mayor, Chafee focused on improving the city’s infrastructure and promoting economic development. He was also known for his efforts to improve education and reduce crime in the city.
Mayor Charles Donovan: The First Mayor of Warwick
Charles Donovan was the first mayor of Warwick, having taken office in 1931. During his tenure, he focused on improving the city’s infrastructure and attracting businesses to the area. He was instrumental in the construction of Warwick’s first city hall and improving the city’s transportation system.
Mayor James A. McNamara: A Legacy of Public Service
James A. McNamara served as the mayor of Warwick from 1966 to 1975. Before that, he was a member of the city council. During his tenure as mayor, McNamara focused on improving the city’s infrastructure and expanding its parks and recreation areas. He was also known for his work to improve the city’s schools and promote economic development.
Mayor Vincent A. Cianci Jr.: The Controversial Mayor
Vincent A. Cianci Jr. served as the mayor of Warwick from 1975 to 1984 and again from 1991 to 2002. He was a controversial figure who was known for his flamboyant personality and strong-arm tactics. Despite being convicted of corruption charges, Cianci was elected as mayor three times and was credited with revitalizing the city’s downtown area.
Mayor Henry T. L. Oxnard: A Brief Tenure as Mayor
Henry T. L. Oxnard served as the mayor of Warwick for a brief period of time in 1940. He was known for his efforts to improve the city’s infrastructure and attract businesses to the area. Oxnard was also instrumental in securing funding for the construction of Warwick’s first high school.
Conclusion: The Mayors of Warwick and Their Contributions
Each mayor of Warwick has left their own unique mark on the city. From Charles Donovan, the first mayor of Warwick, to the current mayor, Frank Picozzi, each one has contributed to the city’s growth and development. Some mayors, like Scott Avedisian and Joseph J. Solomon, focused on improving the city’s infrastructure and promoting economic development, while others, like Vincent A. Cianci Jr. and James A. McNamara, were known for their efforts to improve education and reduce crime. Regardless of their individual achievements, each mayor has played an important role in the history of Warwick.
