I recognize the longstanding history of Newport's Sister City Program and appreciate the volunteers who dedicate their time to supporting international relationships and cultural exchanges.
My questions regarding funding have focused on fiscal accountability, transparency, and ensuring that public expenditures are appropriately documented and justified. These are expectations I apply consistently across all City programs.
Supporting the mission of a program and evaluating its use of taxpayer funds are not mutually exclusive. My responsibility as a councilor is to ensure that every expenditure is reviewed fairly and responsibly.