Calci deplores feud with schools over money

WEST WARWICK — Town Councilman Peter F. Calci Jr., who is running for a third term in his Ward 5 seat, said the biggest governmental issue in the community is the continuing strife between the council and the School Committee, which is suing in Superior Court to get more operating money from the town.

The only fiscal bright spot, especially in this nose-diving economy, the Democrat said, is the $150-million water park and resort that is planned for the West Warwick Business Park.

“The fiscal system has been broken for many years and I have dedicated my first two terms of office attempting to make corrections,” said Calci, who now is acting council president.

Calci faces a November rematch against Republican Mark Bourget, who squared off against the incumbent in 2006 for the Ward 5 seat.

— TALIA BUFORD

Serpa: Experience tells

WEST WARWICK — State Rep. Patricia A. Serpa, Democrat seeking a second term in her District 27 seat, said in a statement, “I take pride in public service and believe that my constituents value life experience, maturity and how the responsibility of raising children, owning a home, paying bills and taxes and having a career influence one’s view when making important decisions.”

She is being challenged for the seat by political newcomer Ericka J. Atwell, 22, a senior at Rhode Island College.

Serpa points to her opposition to the rate hike proposed by the Kent County Water Authority, her championing of legislation to protect condominium association values and help stabilize real estate values throughout the community; and her sponsorship of a bill to make routine medical injections available at local pharmacies.

She is the mother of an adult son, and is a retired teacher. She currently works part time at Johnson & Wales University as a high school improvement liaison.

— TALIA BUFORD

Blais scores Registry

COVENTRY — Sen. Leo R. Blais, R-Dist. 21, says the Division of Motor Vehicles’ decision to no longer provide driving exams at its West Warwick branch is forcing area residents to go to Pawtucket or Middletown to take written or road tests.

“At a time when gas cost more than $3.50 a gallon, it is unconscionable to ask residents of the southern part of the state to drive to Pawtucket to take their driving tests,” Blais said. “Any savings realized on the part of the state will be outweighed by the increased cost to people …”

District 21 includes parts of Coventry, Scituate and Foster. Blais, who has been a senator since 1992, is being challenged in November by Democrat Salvatore Lombardi.

— TALIA BUFORD