Angela (McCalla) Lima won't seek re-election to Newport City Council

Angela (McCalla) Lima has announced that she will not seek re-election to continue representing Ward 1 on Newport City Council in November.

Angela provided the following letter to What’sUpNewp on Tuesday, June 18; where she endorses a candidate running to fill her seat on City Council.

“Dear Friends and Neighbors,

After much reflection and heartfelt deliberation, I have decided not to seek re-election for a fourth term as your Ward 1 Newport City Councilor.

Serving this vibrant, diverse community over the past three terms has been one of the greatest honors of my life. Together, we have navigated challenges, celebrated victories, and created lasting change… and we’re only getting started.

My decision comes from a deeply personal place that is filled with gratitude.

I’m extremely thankful for all of your support over the years and could not have done this without you. Today, I find myself at a crossroads where my focus needs to shift to my family, career, and new ways I can show up for Newport.

My work advocating at the State House and with the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island will continue and I will never stop championing our community.

I believe in finishing strongly and will continue fighting for the causes close to my heart.

Throughout my tenure, I have championed initiatives focused on environmental justice related to reducing carbon footprint, gas emissions, and implementing electric and solar initiatives. I was also responsible for reallocating resources in the millions to focus on stormwater runoff in our neighborhoods and surrounding businesses. Focusing on Urban development and zoning practices, I take pride in being the first in the state and second in New England to bring Equitable Development zoning into practice in order to reduce disparities while fostering places that are healthy and vibrant. I also championed a two-tiered tax system saving homeowners thousands of dollars. I was also responsible for installing Rhode Island’s First Pride Crosswalk. Most importantly, I have kept my promise in ensuring to listen and uplift the issues of our First Ward and all of Newport.

It is time for a new chapter, both for me and for our city. I believe in the power of fresh perspectives and new leadership.

We need representatives who are not entrenched in the politics of self-preservation but are instead dedicated to the real work of public service.

Our city deserves leaders who will approach governance with integrity, transparency, and a commitment to hard work.

To that end, while I will not be on the ballot this year, you’ll still see me on the campaign trail proudly supporting my friends Ellen Pinnock and Steph Smyth in their runs for City Council in Ward 1 and At-Large, respectively.

Let us continue to strive for a community where every voice is heard, and every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

With deepest gratitude,

Angela (McCalla) Lima”