(The following is not a verbatim transcript of comments or discussion that occurred during the meeting, but rather a summarization intended for general informational purposes. All motions and votes are the official records).
CRANSTON CITY COUNCIL
Special Meeting
| Jessica M. Marino, President, City-Wide | Bridget R. Graziano, Ward 1 |
| Daniel Wall, Vice-President, Ward 6 | Kristen E. Haroian, Ward 2 |
| Richard D. Campopiano, City-Wide | Andy M. Andujar, Ward 3 |
| Christopher E. Buonanno, City-Wide | Frank J. Ritz, Jr., Ward 4 |
| | Michael A. Traficante, Ward 5 |
MINUTES
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2025 at 6:00 P.M.
A Special Meeting of the City Council was held in the Cranston City Council Chambers, Cranston City Hall, 869 Park Ave., Cranston, RI 02910 for the purpose of considering the following items listed on the agenda. Remote participation was also available.
YouTube Livestream
The meeting was live streamed on YouTube. Click the link below to view the meeting. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtE9vwA1B1PQHuftrNPcZjg.
I. CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:13 P.M. by Council President Daniel R. Wall. President Wall called for a moment of silence to honor the victims of senseless violence.
II. ROLL CALL
The roll was called by the Clerk. Stated as present: Councilman Campopiano, Councilman Buonanno, Councilwoman Graziano, Councilwoman Haroian, Councilman Andujar, Councilman Ritz, Councilman Traficante, and President Wall. Also present: Stephen J. Angell, Legal Counsel; David DiMaio, Internal Auditor; Anthony Moretti, Director of Administration; Christopher T. Millea, City Solicitor; and Tracy A. Nelson, City Clerk.
MOTION made by Councilwoman Haroian, SECONDED by Councilwoman Graziano to take the agenda out of order. Ayes – 8 (unanimous)
III. NEW BUSINESS
APPOINTMENT of Emilia Vaziri (D) to the Cranston City Council, as city-wide member, filling the vacancy created by the resignation of city-wide Councilwoman Jessica M. Marino (D), pursuant to Section 2.06 - Vacancies of the Cranston City Charter (votes may be taken)
MOTION made by Councilwoman Haroian, SECONDED by Councilman Traficante to appoint Emilia Vaziri to the Cranston City Council filling the city-wide vacancy.
Discussion:
Councilman Traficante spoke of Ms. Vaziri’s impressive resume academically and professionally as well as her community service.
Council President Wall is proud to support her nomination. She is a well-educated business owner, athlete, and coach. She believes in public service, giving back to the community. Her skill set will benefit Council. She will be an asset.
VOTE: Ayes – 8 (unanimous)
ADMINISTRATION of the Oath of Office by the City Clerk (no votes taken)
City Clerk Tracy Nelson administered the Oath of Office to Ms. Vaziri.
IV. PUBLIC COMMENT – DOCKETED ITEMS ONLY (no votes)
Michael Traficante, 173 Sweetbriar Dr. spoke in support of the appointment of Emilia Vaziri to the City Council. She is a positive role model. She is intelligent, well-spoken, and immersed in the community. She is a tremendous addition to the Council.
Kenneth Hopkins, 157 Kearney St. stated it is a good day for the City of Cranston to work together again. Emilia Vaziri is a great addition to the Council.
V. NEW BUSINESS
UPDATE from Council President Wall on City Council Committee membership (no votes)
Council President Wall announced that City-Wide Councilwoman Emilia Vaziri will serve on all Council committees.
VI. ADJOURNMENT (vote may be taken)
MOTION made by Councilman Andujar, SECONDED by Councilman Traficante to adjourn at 8:22 6:22* P.M. All Ayes
Minutes approved as amended* September 22, 2025
Attest: Tracy A. Nelson, City Clerk