To the Editor,
Congratulations to the newly elected Newport Councilors whose first task will be to decide who among the four at-large Councilors will be Chairman of the Council. Whomever is selected, will carry the ceremonial title of Mayor, which brings no extra vote or other power. Two years ago, our present mayor, Xay Khamsyvoravong won by the largest margin
(23 Percent) in decades and was elected Mayor unanimously. This, in contrast to this year’s exceptionally small (1percent) margin between the top three.
During his term as Mayor, Xay has brought much support from the Federal and State governments needed for the repair to the city’s infrastructure, housing, and educational needs. He has worked full-time for the city.
This year, he is the third largest voter getter among those running at-large.
So why isn’t he the top-voter this year?
Like throwing wet spaghetti at a wall to see what sticks, a known website whose owner has a personal vendetta against Xay, has hurled sly attacks of malicious false accusations against Xay. Even former Mayor Napolitano bought the insinuation that Xay would sell Easton Beach and assured her public in an ad that she would not let that happen.
When one tries new ways of doing things in public for the people, some are afraid of change. Like making an omelet, you must break some eggs. In this case, I maintain that these crushed eggs represent an old guard whose egos are offended by what Xay has managed to accomplish in two short years, what they could have, should have, would have… but didn’t.
Newport’s future is facing several crucial challenges that will be best met by a city council led by Xay Khamsyvoravong, a tested, competent person that will hit the road running. This is not the time to change horses.
Sincerely,
Lisette Prince, Newport
