Today in Richmond, Mayor Danny Avula highlighted recent actions by the City Council aimed at maintaining core city services, expanding affordable housing, and supporting small businesses. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to foster growth and stability in the community.
Property taxes make up more than half of Richmond’s budget, with each cent of the tax rate generating about $4.2 million for essential services such as schools and public safety. Mayor Avula and Council President Cynthia Newbille co-sponsored an ordinance to keep the property tax rate at $1.20, which would prevent a potential $17.2 million reduction in city services if lowered. The council voted to continue this ordinance and is expected to take further action next month.
“The City passed a responsible budget together based on a $1.20 rate,” said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald. “It is my hope that the Council remains committed to delivering excellence for our 230,000 residents. Maintaining the rate is step one in doing so, allowing us to make continued progress so that Richmonders get the first-class service they deserve. Reducing the rate hinders our ability to do that.”
“Richmond families deserve stability and investment, not disruption of core services,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “Reducing the rate would hinder our ability to provide essential services, fight crime, and invest in infrastructure. I’m confident we will return to the prudent path forward, and I look forward to additional work on this critical issue.”
The council also unanimously approved two ordinances related to affordable housing sponsored by Mayor Avula: one project will bring 180 multifamily units and a community clubhouse at 5015 Snead Road; another allows student housing near Virginia Union University through mixed-use development.
“This is great news for Richmond,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “Affordable housing is a pillar of thriving neighborhoods. Every resident deserves a safe, affordable place to live, and I’m incredibly encouraged by these projects that will bring much-needed affordable housing to Richmond.”
A resolution was also passed unanimously directing city administration to review contracting practices with small and minority-owned businesses after findings showed that while nearly 18% of available businesses are minority-owned, they receive only 3% of city contract spending. The resolution aims for greater equity in contracting opportunities.
“I’m so glad that Council took this important step,” said Pat Foster, Director, Minority Business Development. “This resolution strengthens the City’s commitment to fairness and equity, and creates more opportunities for small and minority-owned businesses to compete and thrive. When our entrepreneurs succeed, our neighborhoods and our whole city grows stronger.”
Additionally, council established a new Northside planning node as part of updates for Richmond’s master plan known as Richmond 300—an area designed as a local hub connecting residential neighborhoods with commercial corridors.
“As Code Refresh works to create more homes for more people, this Richmond 300 Master Plan update ensures that City departments are collaborating on infrastructure improvements, public amenities, and incentive programs that support new development and strengthen neighborhoods,” said Kevin Vonck, Director, Planning and Development Review.
Another ordinance approved by council authorizes continued development on the Fall Line Trail – Kanawha Plaza connector—a regional trail intended to connect Petersburg with Ashland through central Richmond—with major sections expected by 2026.
“I’m so thrilled about this next step for the Fall Line Trail. It’s more than a connector, it’s a pathway to a thriving, sustainable environment. This investment brings people together, supports healthy communities, and will boost tourism and economic development. It’s truly a win-win-win!” said Lawson Wijesooriya, Chief of Staff to Mayor Danny Avula.
On budgeting reforms within city government processes: while expressing support for recommendations from an Administration-Council Budget Task Force—including early collaboration between mayoral offices & council members plus enhanced public engagement—Mayor Avula voiced concerns over implementing changes not recommended by the task force itself.
“I was encouraged by the Task Force’s thoughtful recommendations, and I believe they will achieve the transparency, accountability ,and time for much more meaningful engagement we’re all aiming for,” said Mayor Danny Avula.” At the same time,I have concerns about introducing a dramatic change that wasn’t part of Task Force’s recommendation.The Task Force brings great deal wisdom,and I’d prefer we build on rather than move forward with one-off proposals.”
The recommended reforms include earlier collaboration between officials during budget planning; advancing timelines; restructuring work sessions around key portfolios; standardizing amendment procedures; increasing public hearings;and annual reviews.
