Brown University survey: Providence mayor's popularity increases despite concern on budget

By Tatiana Pina PROVIDENCE, R.I. - - Nearly 86 percent of Providence voters are concerned about the city's budget issues but are divided on ways to reform the current pension plan, according to a recent public opinions survey by the Taubman Center at Brown University.

The survey says that 85.9 percent of Providence voters characterized the city's budget problems as "somewhat serious" or "very serious."

Despite continuing concerns, the approval rating of Mayor Angel Taveras has risen to 60 percent, up 10 points in the last year.

Researchers surveyed a random sample of 425 registered voters.

Most of the voters, 64 percent, said they are aware of the unfunded pension liability issue facing Providence and other cities, and 64.7 percent believe that all affected parties -- retirees, current workers and future workers -- should bear an equal share of the burden of pension reform.