Rep. Costantino to run for Prov mayor

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) - Another candidate threw his hat in the ring for Providence's mayoral race Thursday afternoon.

State Rep. Steven Costantino announced his plans to run for office during a news conference at Prospect Park. The Democrat is currently the chairman of the House Finance Committee.

Noting the high numbers of unemployed workers, Costantino said his chief priority will be to attract businesses, retain those already established here and create jobs.

“I will roll up my sleeves and design programs and incentives to retain and grow businesses already established here while recruiting new, vibrant businesses to the city," he said. "We are in competition with the rest of the nation and we have seen businesses and jobs come and go. I will be creative. I will be proactive. And I will be diligent."

Costantino is just the latest person to announce candidacy after current Mayor David Cicilline revealed his plans to run for the U.S. Congressional seat being vacated by Rep. Patrick Kennedy.

City Council President John Lombardi and Christopher Young have also announced their candidacy for mayor. Others who may be planning to get into the race include former Councilman Andrew Annaldo, Councilman Michael Solomon, lawyer Angel Tavares, state Sen. Juan Pichardo, former state Senator Myrth York and former Mayor Joseph Paolino.