Town Leaders Give COVID-19 Update

New Newport Town
Manager, Bryan Chadwick 

Mayor Dennis Barber

Newport Mayor Dennis Barber and new Town Manager, Bryan Chadwick, were the guest speakers, via Zoom, for the club's May 18, 2020 meeting. Like other local governments, Newport is having to deal with "unprecedented" numbers of "unprecedented" issues surrounding the pandemic. However, Newport was in good financial shape with its fund balance with an 18 month reserve, and has tightened its belt where possible to meet the financial challenges. Sales and Use Tax revenue income will most definitely be down, but projections are unsure how much. January 2021 has Heritage Point, Phase 1 coming online with new tax revenue expected. Town Hall is closed to visitors, but is now back to full staff and will set appointments to meet with those who need to meet in person. A lot of town business is being conducted by Zoom and by phone. Both Barber and Chadwick stressed that furloughing any town staff would be the very last resort, and they don't envision that happening anytime soon. Both leaders were thanked by club members for their flexibility and management of the crisis. 

Other discussion during the meeting also focused on funding existing projects and COVID-19 needs. Ongoing repair of the Rotary Building windows and siding, and approved new vinyl fencing around the propane tank were discussed. Newport Rotary is looking for ways to support the community through the crises with its upcoming grant funding with applications due June 1, 2020. Newport Elementary efforts to feed children end in June, so there's a big need. Also Food Pantries are low and need funds. District virtual meetings for Women in Rotary (May 20 @ 5pm), the Governor's Installation ( June 23 @ 6:15pm), the District Conference (September 25 @ 9am) can all the accessed via your online DaCdb portal.