Councilman John J. Lombardi is seeking the immediate appointment by Mayor David N. Cicilline of three people to the Recreational Advisory Board. The request is in response to the recent tragedies that took place at the Bucklin Street Pool.

As outlined in Section 1005 of the Providence Home Rule Charter, the Mayor is required to name three members to the five member board.  “Currently, there are three vacancies because there are no Mayoral appointments.  As a result, the board is unable to meet due to a lack of a quorum”, Councilman Lombardi noted.

On August 17, 2009, two children were pulled from the water unconscious from separate areas of the municipal facility at nearly the same time.  Apparently, both children were not breathing.  Cardiopulmonary resuscitation was performed on both children and both are listed in serious condition with life threatening injuries at Hasbro Children’s Hospital.  “By all accounts, the members of Providence Fire Rescue responded quickly and did an outstanding job attempting to resuscitate the victims”, Lombardi observed.

The Recreational Advisory Board shall consist of 5 members, three appointed by the mayor and two elected by the Council.  The members shall serve staggered terms.  Furthermore they will adopt rules of procedure for the conduct of its business that is consistent with the Charter.  Councilmen Terrence M. Hassett and Kevin Jackson are the current council appointments.

Lombardi feels that the Board needs to convene immediately so it can reorganize, elect officers and begin to fulfill the requirements under the Charter including:

a.    Advise the Mayor, City Council and Parks & Recreation Department relating to any and all matters as they apply to all activities and facilities to serve all the people of Providence;

b.    To review any and all existing policies, procedures, programs, and rules and regulations within the Department of Recreation;

c.    To make any and all budgetary recommendations to the appropriate parties; and

d.    To advise as to all proposals for changes in policies and procedures by discontinuing existing programs or services; initiating new programs or services; altering new programs or services or any and all rules and regulations which will effectuate a more efficient and safe Department.

Councilman Lombardi will submit a resolution requesting such action at the next regular council meeting on September 3, 2009.

Additionally, a letter was delivered to the Mayor requesting a speedy and thorough investigation into the incident and implementation of appropriate procedures to prevent further occurrences.  “This unfortunate tragedy has touched everyone in the community. Our immediate concern is for the two children who remain hospitalized and their families” Lombardi added.

“As a former Director of Recreation, and Pool Director, it is difficult for me to understand how this tragic event could have transpired.  We must conduct a thorough review of all practices and procedures and further determine if the understaffing of the current Recreational Advisory Board contributed to the tragedy”, Lombardi added.