Newport Election Profile: Paul Marshall

NEWPORT, RI — Paul Marshall is running for a seat on the Newport City Council. The 31-year-old serves on the Planning Board for the City of Newport, currently the Resiliency Liaison.

Marshall lives with his wife, Charlotte, and their 15-month-old son. He is a Rogers High School graduate and holds bachelor's degrees in English and History from Hobart and William Smith Colleges, as well as a master's in Public Affairs from Brown University. He currently works as a marketing, communication, policy and sustainability consultant.

Campaign website

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Why are you seeking elective office?

I’m seeking elective office to help the City of Newport continue to grow in a diverse, inclusive and economically prosperous way in order to preserve, protect and plan for the future of this City.

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

On a local level, I believe that we need to enforce a mandatory mask policy.

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?

Yes, systemic racism is a problem in America that affects every aspect of life — from the economy, education, housing, to health. On a local level, I plan to look at every municipal issue through an equity and inclusion lens, consult with community leaders, and make sure I fully understand the impact, both positive and negative, this decision would have on the community as a whole.

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

Yes

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

The critical difference is that I will work to empower our community and plan for future generations through economic stability and growth, education and climate resiliency.

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

I stand for equity, education, environment and improving our year-round economy. As we look to the future, we need to be cognizant of our entire community and I hope to steer city-wide decisions in a more conscientious and equitable way. Also, our children need access to a safe and prosperous school system. Great schools benefit the entire community. Third, Newport is affected by climate change — from sea-level rise; storm water management; energy; and economy — and we should be a leader in climate change resiliency. Lastly, we need to address our year-round economy in a forward-thinking advantageous way to help keep young families in Newport.

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

First, I have worked in Newport’s hospitality industry for 10+ years, which has given me a true understanding of Newport’s current economy. Second, I have and will always continue to invest my time and energy into this community. Third, I recently completed a Masters in Public Affairs at Brown University and during my time there, I focused on the intersection of economic and environmental policy and worked on projects pertaining to sea-level rise and its effect on local marinas as well as global carbon supply chain reduction strategies. Lastly, I am currently an active member of Newport’s Planning Board and have worked on projects pertaining to the North End Urban Master Plan, Transportation Master Plan, Green and Complete Streets, and Renewable energy initiatives.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Be active, be present, and be open-minded.

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

I encourage all to register to vote. Last day to register to vote for the General Election is Oct. 3.