Vote Smiley for Mayor

Brett believes that Providence can be the best-run city in the country by supporting quality schools, building safer streets, and improving city services for residents in every neighborhood.

 

As the 39th Mayor of Providence, Brett Smiley is delivering on his promise to build the best-run city in America — with smart investments in public safety, housing, infrastructure and youth, and a clear focus on the quality-of-life issues that matter most to neighbors and businesses.

From day one, Mayor Smiley has led with transparency, accountability and urgency — making City Hall more accessible and responsive, and putting Providence on a path to becoming the best-run city in America.

Under his leadership, the city has tackled big challenges with thoughtful, data-driven solutions.

He has:

  • Delivered a historic $223 million PILOT agreement with local colleges and universities — more than doubling their financial contributions and setting a national standard for equitable partnerships.

  • Prioritized public safety by increasing skilled staffing in the Police and Fire Departments, investing in community policing and focusing on both violent crime and quality-of-life concerns.

  • Advocated for accelerated housing production by supporting projects and initiatives that address both short- and long-term solutions to address homelessness and affordability.

  • Developed a Capital Improvement Plan that reflects community feedback and strengthens the city’s roads, sidewalks, parks, and stormwater systems, with climate resiliency at its core.

A longtime advocate for equity, inclusion, and public service, Brett has worked with organizations such as Planned Parenthood, Marriage Equality Rhode Island, and the National Gay & Lesbian Victory Fund over the years. He currently serves on the U.S. Conference of Mayors Advisory Board and co-chairs the national Mayors and Police Chiefs Task Force.

Mayor Smiley holds a degree in finance and an MBA from DePaul University. He lives with his husband Jim DeRentis, their dog and two cats. Both Brett and Jim are avid runners who love this city.