Cynthia M. Drummond – Town Council

Cynthia is a journalist, and for more than a decade she covered many busy beats for the Westerly Sun. In addition to covering the news in Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton, she reported on the Chariho Regional School District and on scientific and environmental issues relevant to the three towns.

Understanding that many South County residents feel overlooked by the state legislature, Cynthia often invited state officials to meet with Sun reporters and editors to discuss issues affecting our part of Rhode Island. Former Governor Gina Raimondo visited several times, as did former RIDOT director Peter Alviti and others.

Cynthia took the same approach to covering the environment, developing ongoing relationships with leading scientists such as hurricane forecasting oceanographer Dr. Isaac Ginis and environmental hydrologist Dr. Thomas Boving.

Covering Planning Boards and Commissions was an important part of Cynthia’s work and provided her with an invaluable perspective on how towns address decisions pertaining to development – both economic and residential – and conservation.

Reporting has given Cynthia a unique perspective on the ways in which municipalities function and how they are adapting to emerging issues.

Her in-depth coverage of the Chariho Regional School District has also enhanced her understanding of the issues and challenges facing our schools.

Cynthia earned a Master of Marine Affairs degree from the University of Rhode Island in 2005. This interdisciplinary program combines advanced studies in ocean science and policy, ocean law, and resource economics, reflecting the complexity of the issues our town faces today.

“I feel that now is the time for me to move from observing and writing about the town to participating in municipal government,” Cynthia explained. “We bought our house in Charlestown 10 years ago, and it is wonderful to live in this town after covering it as a journalist for so many years. I am currently in a position where I will have the time to serve in municipal government, and if elected, I will put my professional and academic experience to work for the town.”