06/02/2026
Statement on Woonsocket Speed Camera Vote (June 1)
As a resident, taxpayer, and father in Woonsocket, I believe that nothing matters more than the safety of our community. Protecting our children, our families, and every driver and pedestrian who uses our roads must always be our top priority.
That’s why I am deeply disappointed in the City Council’s decision on June 1 to vote down the proposal for speed cameras in our traffic zones. These measures are about prevention, accountability, and saving lives—not punishment. Excessive speeding in residential areas and near schools is a real and ongoing danger, and we should be taking every responsible step to reduce it.
This isn’t just a policy issue—it’s something I have heard directly from our residents. During my 2024 campaign, while canvassing door-to-door across Woonsocket, one of the most consistent concerns I heard was about unsafe driving. Residents repeatedly raised concerns about speeding drivers, impaired drivers, and distracted drivers putting lives at risk in our neighborhoods. The message from the community was clear: people want safer streets.
We do not have to imagine the consequences of inaction—we have already lived them. On January 27, 2025, in front of Hamlet Middle School, 4-year-old Eliza Khan tragically lost her life. That loss should have been a turning point for our community—a moment that strengthened our resolve to do more to protect our most vulnerable residents.
As both a taxpayer and a parent, I expected better. I expected leadership that would put public safety ahead of hesitation or short-term concerns. Our community deserves proactive solutions to keep our streets safer—not missed opportunities.
We cannot afford to wait for another tragedy to force action. The safety of Woonsocket residents must come first, every single time.
Expect better. Demand more.
