Newport Election Profile: Kate Leonard

NEWPORT, RI — Kathryn "Kate" Leonard is running for Ward 3 of Newport's City Council. The 74-year-old independent was first elected in Nov. 1995, and has served on the council ever since, except for two terms.

Leonard was a teacher and department head in Connecticut for 25 years and has been a realtor for the past 12 years.

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Campaign website

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Why are you seeking elective office?

I am known to be a strong advocate for our community in terms of creating balance. I believe that the residents deserve a good quality of life and a budget that allows locals to continue to live and work here. Businesses provide the jobs for our local residents to remain living here also. Therefore, there needs to be balance which I have always worked to provide. As such, I have been re-elected often. I do not like seeing the divisiveness that is occurring in Newport now--often brought here by non-residents. We have always been a supportive, generous community whereby some people give time, some give money and some give both to make Newport a special place to live. I enjoy representing my Ward and receive calls, texts, emails from all wards in Newport that I always respond to.

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

This is a national question that is difficult to answer. Again---health and safety and balance need to be delved into. Newport residents have been basically very good about keeping safe and wearing masks. To quell the spread of Covid-19, we all need to use common sense in preventing further spread. I think all people should wear masks in public places where they put others at risk. Other communities have mandated mask wearing. Newport has "encouraged" mask wearing. We are a tourism community in summer and, like Edgartown MA on Martha's Vineyard, I think that we should mandate masks in crowded areas...IF this is enforced.

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 think one has to define "systemic racism" which seems to be the new Buzz Term in the USA. What happened to George Floyd is unconscionable and those officers should be punished appropriately, but looting and rioting are not valid responses----that is basically anarchy. To "defund" the police is not realistic.

Many in Newport call for "One Newport." We cannot be One Newport without working together. The North Side/North End is a part of Newport that has existed long before me. We have spent $$Millions to improve that part of town to bring unity. Newport has created an Innovation Hub, helped bring CCRI, created opportunities/pathways to success for people. Without a good education, without good job skills that are marketable to provide better pay and a better quality of life, people will not get ahead. Equitable pay and opportunities come with hard work.

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

I work 24/7 to communicate with residents/business owners. People know that I am available, sleep little, and have dedicated my time and efforts to help make Newport a good place to live--a place where I want to live. I am not emotional. I am rational and reasonable. I look at goals. I study budgets. I look for accountability. I am a no-nonsense person who is very protective to those that I serve. I am fiscally responsible. It is an honor and privilege to serve. I have no personal agendas.
Some on City Council now think that money falls from the sky and that we should fund every "wish list." Some on City Council now are bringing national issues to Newport in an emotional way---people need to work on solutions and not stir the pot of divisiveness, in my opinion.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

Education--preparing students for life and the ability to earn a good living.

Fiscal responsibility - Keeping Newport affordable for working families and the middle class.

Diversity -- not letting "diversity" become "divisiveness" and working to promote a community where all residents can live well.

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

My work ethic and testimonials from both residents and business owners speak for themselves. I have a good track record or I would have been ousted from office long ago. I keep my word. I don't waffle on votes.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Do the best that you can. When you die, all that you leave behind is your name--a good one (good reputation) or a bad one. Work hard if you want a better life.

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

I have a positive attitude. I don't whine. I put up a good fight to advocate for my constituents.