This is a letter from Rep. Jay Edwards, who represents the Island Park and Common Fence Point sections of Portsmouth:

Dear District 70 Voter,
The next 2 years will be critical to our State and more important, our Town as items such as the School Funding Formula and various taxes are reviewed and voted on by the General Assembly. We need people with experience, not only legislatively but also with our community. I have that experience and have always worked for my constituents’ best interests, whether as a member of the Zoning Board, the Elementary School Building Committee, a Town Councilor or most recently as the Representative for Tiverton and Portsmouth.

I have actively worked for our small businesses, holding a number of forums in Town to get their input directly. I have also successfully cosponsored multiple initiatives to reduce the number of regulations on small businesses and to make the licensing process more streamlined and predictable. I believe that it is our small, local businesses that will drive our local economic engine and help this community both fiscally and socially.

Unlike some who are currently running for office in Town, I have a long and strong connection to this community. All three of my children have gone from Kindergarten through High School in Tiverton public schools; my youngest is currently a sophomore at THS. I have worked tirelessly for over 18 years, in various positions, for this community. When the Town Council requested legislation this past session, they came to me to get it through, which despite being late in the legislative calendar, I was able to do. In addition to working a demanding full time job, I have maintained a perfect attendance record and look forward to continuing that on your behalf.

I respectfully request your vote this coming Tuesday as I seek re-election to the RI House of Representatives.

John (Jay) Edwards
RI State Representative, District 70
69 South Ave.

Full disclosure: I am a supporter of Jay's and a member of his district committee. He will be an ally for our town in the fight to modify the state education funding formula, and I believe he deserves our support.

Update: Added CFP to the sections of Portsmouth Jay represents; I didn't have my boundary map handy. Sorry about that.