Council Majority Leader Terrence M. Hassett (Ward 12), in reaction to yesterday’s dismissal of Providence Tax Collector Robert Ceprano, issued the following statement:

“The great public service of Robert Ceprano, Providence City Tax Collector, came to an abrupt and untimely end on Tuesday, January 27, 2009, at the hand of Mayor David N. Cicilline’s administration. The circumstances associated with Mr. Ceprano’s dismissal are particularly confusing and without justification.

“While it is well understood that the mayor’s finance director has the chartered authority to appoint the tax collector, and in this case, remove him, Mr. Ceprano’s termination is highly inappropriate and in conflict with the high ethical standards he demonstrated in his appointed office of tax collector. Realizing wide and deep support and respect among city leaders, his actions as reported by the independent auditor should be celebrated as courageous, and atop a high ethical level where he has always stood.

“Regretfully, Mr. Ceprano appears to be the convenient choice for termination for standing his ground in resistance to actions that caused him great concern. He demonstrated wise and ethical judgment, revealing his protests to the requests that were made by other city officials.

“Mr. Ceprano has performed very well and in the interest of the taxpayers of Providence at all times. He continues to enjoy the support of the City Council and many other city leaders.

“Mr. Ceprano should not have been dismissed.”

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