SENATE RESOLUTION HONORING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JULIE LEDDY UPON HER RETIREMENT AFTER TWENTY-NINE YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO THE COVENTRY HOUSING AUTHORITY

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Pete Appollonio and 9 co-sponsors

Acknowledge Julie Leddy’s leadership at Coventry Housing Authority and her 29 years of service expanding affordable housing, with best wishes for her future.

05/14/2026 Senate read and passed

Summary of Bill: SR 3283 (Rhode Island, 2026)

Purpose and Intent

This Senate Resolution honors and congratulates Julie Leddy, Executive Director of the Coventry Housing Authority, on her retirement after 29 years of service.

It recognizes her leadership, dedication, and contribution to expanding affordable housing opportunities in Coventry, Rhode Island.

Key Provisions and Provisions’ Effects

States in formal terms Julie Leddy’s tenure and accomplishments as Executive Director of the Coventry Housing Authority (CHA).

Highlights CHA’s history and impact:

CHA’s establishment in 1963 to provide safe, decent, and affordable housing for low-income households in Coventry.
Notable developments under CHA’s leadership, including Knotty Oak Village (built in 1967), John O. Haynes on Carley Drive (1980), and North Road Terrace (began 1983; expanded 1989).
In 2001, CHA became the first Rhode Island public housing authority to have a participant close on a home through the Housing Choice Voucher Homeownership Program.
CHA’s designation as a HUD “High Performer” under Julie’s leadership, indicating sustained excellence in management, fiscal responsibility, and service delivery.

Emphasizes Julie Leddy’s contributions:

Professionalism, compassion, visionary leadership, and commitment to residents across seniors, disabled households, families, and veterans.
Expansion of affordable housing, development of new units, support for homeownership, and community partnerships.
Focus on leadership, teamwork, communication, professional development, efficiency, and meaningful resident relationships.
Recognition through awards and accolades during her tenure.

Purely ceremonial/recognition nature:

The resolution is a vehicle to publicly acknowledge her impact and extend best wishes for health, happiness, and continued success.

Who Is Affected

Julie Leddy (the honoree) and the Coventry Housing Authority (contextual acknowledgment of leadership and achievements).

The broader Coventry community, particularly residents benefiting from CHA’s programs and the historical growth of affordable housing initiatives in Coventry, Rhode Island.

Procedural and Timeline Details

Introduced Date: May 12, 2026.

Action: Placed on the Senate Consent Calendar (motion to pass without objection) on May 14, 2026.

Sponsor/Co-sponsors: Primary sponsor Senators Raptakis, Rogers, Gallo, Burke, Appollonio, Famiglietti, Valverde, Patalano, Thompson, McKenney; multiple co-sponsors listed.

Nature of bill: Non-binding Senate Resolution (SR) to commend and honor an individual for public service.

Notable Details for Readers

The bill does not impose new laws, funding, or regulatory changes; it is a ceremonial recognition expressing appreciation for a public servant’s career.

The resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to Julie Leddy.