Cranston Election Profile: Don Roach

CRANSTON, RI — Don Roach is running for the Cranston City Council. The 43-year-old Republican is a newcomer to elected office.

Roach holds a master's degree and served as a director of strategic planning and analysis.

Campaign website

Why are you seeking elective office?

I want to be the voice for my neighbors. Someone they can call and know they will receive help.

What do you believe should be done to contain the coronavirus pandemic, and what would you do to lessen its economic impacts?

Social distancing has helped stem the tide some, but we need tests that get results faster and better contact tracing. Isolating this virus is the key to beating it in my opinion. As for the economic impacts, my heart breaks for the many businesses that have closed and people who have lost jobs due to the pandemic. What I'd like to do is hold some community forums to generate unique ways for us to assist those whose jobs and businesses have been affected. I am committed that if elected my top priority will be to do whatever I can to help those who have been economically impacted by the pandemic.

Do you believe systemic racism is a problem in America generally and Rhode Island specifically, and if so, what would you do to combat it?

I do believe systemic racism is a problem. I've worked most of my career in Corporate America and see instances of unconscious bias every day. The key to combating unconscious bias is conversation. We need to talk to each other, learn from our differing perspectives, and have a little grace. As part of Cranston's Diversity Commission, I'm a part of this effort today. My motto is this — we overcome hate with love, not more hate and I refuse to allow hat to consume us nor will I sit idly by while systemic racism continues to affect us.

Should the words "Providence Plantations" be removed from the state's name?

No

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

I don't know the other candidates well and so it's difficult to say. What I will say is that I bring a strong financial background, experience on the zoning board, a fierce passion to advocate for all people regardless of background, and a genuine desire to serve our residents. I'm definitely a nerd, but I will be accessible and relentless in ensuring my neighbors feel like they have a friend in me on the Council.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)

I believe all candidates for this race are not incumbents.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Other issues I will fight for are school committee/city council collaboration, keeping our property taxes down, smart development, and fighting for all residents not just those who support my party or even political views.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

I was a member of the Zoning Board for a couple of years, I was on the board of a non-profit several years ago, I have a Master's in Accountancy and understand the budgeting process and can bring that expertise to the city, I mentor 30-35 people on my job and know how to connect people and get things done for others, and this is probably most important I find it's an accomplishment to say I admit mistakes and learn from them.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Leaders lead. Don't wait for someone to tell you to lead or for you to be in a position of authority to lead. Leaders just lead.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

I'd just love voters to tell me about what's important to them. I want to listen and I want to fight for what's important to my neighbors.