2025-70

WHEREAS, in September 2019, the City of Newport became the first community in Rhode Island designated as an "Age-Friendly" community by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). The effort was dubbed "Newport for All Ages" (N4AA); AND

WHEREAS, In 2019, Newport made the commitment to improve livability in the City of Newport. The initiative involved concerned residents, social service agencies, and others in the goal of understanding the challenges in making life more livable for our senior residents. Through a multi-year rigorous process that included surveys, research and interviews, Newport's Age Friendly designation demonstrates the vision for preparing the City for our rapidly aging population; AND

WHEREAS, through the continuation of Newport’s long range healthy aging plan, NFAA is a City of Newport initiative, co-led by the Edward King House Senior Center with support from Age Friendly Rhode Island and AARP Rhode Island; AND

WHEREAS, "Age Friendly" communities are safe and secure, have walkable streets, housing and transportation options, inviting parks and open spaces, and offer supports to help residents stay in their communities as they age; AND

WHEREAS; An Age Friendly Implementation Plan is the next step in achieving Newport's goal for healthy aging. N4AA, seeks to engage, municipal departments, social service organizations, religious institutions, and cultural institutions, to review the city’s policies and practices in the goals of enhancing the quality of life for all ages; NOW THEREFORE BE IT

RESOLVED, Therefore be it resolved that: the City of Newport will engage its personnel resources to assist in the Implementation Plan by committing to an ongoing pursuit to ensure that the policies and practices align with the goals of the “Age Friendly” initiative.

LYNN UNDERWOOD CEGLIE
CHARLES M. HOLDER, JR.
XAY KHAMSYVORAVONG
ELLEN PINNOCK
STEPHANIE SMYTH
JEANNE-MARIE NAPOLITANO

IN COUNCIL
READ AND PASSED
APRIL 23, 2025

Laura C. Swistak, CMC
CITY CLERK