News Summary
Dick Fossa, chief of staff to North Providence Mayor Charlie Lombardi, has announced his retirement effective September 3, 2025. After nearly two decades in the role, Fossa’s departure raises concerns about finding a suitable replacement. The mayor acknowledged Fossa’s significant contributions and the void his exit will create within the administration. Despite the ongoing FBI investigation into town spending, Fossa emphasizes that his retirement is unrelated to these issues, marking the end of an era in local governance.
North Providence
Dick Fossa, the chief of staff to North Providence Mayor Charlie Lombardi, has announced his retirement, effective September 3, 2025. Fossa, who is 88 years old, had his last working day on July 28, 2025, and will utilize vacation days leading up to his official retirement date.
Having served as Lombardi’s chief of staff for nearly two decades, Fossa remarked on the roles he has played with a hint of humor, referring to his tenure as a favor he agreed to 18 years ago. Mayor Lombardi acknowledged Fossa’s extensive service and expressed concern over the challenges of finding a suitable replacement. The mayor noted the significant impact Fossa’s departure would have on the town’s administration.
Fossa made it clear that his decision to retire is not connected to the ongoing FBI investigation into town spending that has garnered media attention. He stated that he has no involvement in the issues related to this investigation. In light of recent changes in his responsibilities at work, Fossa felt that now was the right time for him to step down.
Background on Dick Fossa
Fossa’s extensive political career began in the early 1970s when he was elected to the Town Council. Since then, he has held various positions, including serving as mayor before becoming chief of staff. Known for his dedication and strong work ethic, Fossa has often been seen at Town Hall for long hours, emphasizing his commitment to his role rather than the financial incentives it may provide.
Impact and Future Planning
Mayor Lombardi indicated plans to seek potential replacements for Fossa’s chief of staff position in the coming weeks. The transition is expected to leave a meaningful void within the town’s administration, given Fossa’s long-standing contributions to local governance and community engagement.
Conclusion
As Fossa prepares for his retirement, his legacy and the influence he has had on North Providence over the years will certainly be felt. Despite his departure, he leaves behind a notable record of service to the town and its residents. Fossa’s announcement marks the end of an era in local politics, raising questions about how the town will adapt to his absence in the years to come.
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Additional Resources
- WPRI News: Dick Fossa Stepping Down
- Turn to 10: Fossa Chief of Staff Retiring
- Providence Journal: Dick Fossa’s Political Career
- Wikipedia: North Providence, Rhode Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rhode Island
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
