On December 15, 2025, the Richmond City Council held a meeting addressing various ordinances and resolutions, including special use permits for multifamily dwellings, amendments to economic interest disclosures, and a proposed real estate tax levy. Public comments highlighted community concerns and support for transparency initiatives. Key actions were continued to future meetings for further review. For details, visit www.rva.gov/office-city-clerk.
On January 12, 2026, Richmond City Council will hear public comments on various topics, including the use of vacant city property, updates on VMFA expansion, and concerns about funding cuts for the McShin Recovery Resource Foundation.
The Education & Human Services Standing Committee of Richmond will discuss updates on youth programs and consider three ordinances for funding community initiatives, including trauma-informed care, life skills at MLK Middle School, and a regional recovery academy.
The Richmond City Council is reviewing options for janitorial and security contracts amid rising labor costs. Proposed changes include updating contracts to meet the City's $20 minimum wage, projected to increase costs by $1.04M annually for janitorial services and $1.1M for security. Bringing services in-house could nearly double expenses, with significant long-term implications. The Administration recommends keeping the current model while focusing on fair compensation through contractual amendments.
The City of Richmond's Education and Human Services Standing Committee is reviewing vacancies across various boards, including the Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks, Aging and Disabilities Advisory Board, and Human Rights Commission. These boards require applicants who are city residents or work in Richmond, aiming to enhance community representation. Current vacancies include reappointments and new applications for individuals with diverse backgrounds in public service, health, and community engagement. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply.
The Richmond Public Safety Standing Committee discussed public safety concerns in Shockoe Bottom, approved amendments to towing fees, and reviewed regulations for retail tobacco and hemp sales. The meeting also addressed funding challenges for the Richmond Ambulance Authority.
The City of Richmond is considering a request for a subdivision exception at 3618 Hawthorne Avenue. The proposal seeks to waive the lot depth requirement to allow for six single-family attached dwellings. This requires a Special Use Permit as the current zoning does not permit this type of development. Staff recommends approval, aligning with the Richmond 300 Master Plan's residential goals.
Ordinance No. 2025-262 authorizes Richmond's Chief Administrative Officer to accept $5,077.23 from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority. These funds will support a matching grant to Hanover County for the Project Recover initiative aimed at opioid remediation. Public hearing scheduled for January 12, 2026.
On December 15, 2025, the City of Richmond introduced Ordinance No. 2025-264 to accept $9,950 from the Urban Sustainability Directors Network. This funding will establish a special fund to enhance energy resilience at Whitcomb Court, supporting sustainability initiatives in public housing. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026.
The City of Richmond is set to accept $8,519.98 from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority to support the Chesterfield Recovery Academy. This funding will be used to create a new budget line item for matching funds in the General Fund Budget, aimed at combating the opioid crisis. A public hearing will be held on January 12, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced Ordinance No. 2025-278 to authorize a one-year lease agreement with Virginia Community Voice for the old T.B. Smith Center at 2015 Ruffin Road. The organization aims to empower local communities through various programs. A public hearing is scheduled for January 26, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced Ordinance No. 2025-285 to authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to execute a Cooperation Agreement with the Economic Development Authority. This agreement aims to facilitate the redevelopment of the city-owned property at 500 North 10th Street. A public hearing is scheduled for January 26, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced an ordinance to amend the Coliseum Parcel Redevelopment Cooperation Agreement. This amendment extends the deadline for redevelopment and allows for partial sales or leases, aiming to facilitate a mixed-use City Center. Public hearing on Jan 26, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced Ordinance No. 2025-287 to amend City Code § 27-131, focusing on the traffic signal enforcement program. This amendment reallocates civil penalties from traffic violations to support the Safety Camera Program and the Vision Zero Action Plan. A public hearing is scheduled for February 9, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced an ordinance to establish a real estate tax deferral program for qualified owner-occupied properties, effective January 1, 2027. This program allows eligible homeowners to defer taxes exceeding 105% of the previous year's levy. Public hearing set for January 26, 2026.
The Richmond Organizational Development Standing Committee met on December 1, 2025, to discuss the Parks Master Plan, emphasizing community engagement and accessibility. Updates on the Council Chief of Staff's progress were also shared. No votes or appointments were made.
The City of Richmond has introduced an ordinance for a special use permit at 1920 Fairmount Avenue, permitting office and social service uses in a residential district. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026. Dwelling or recovery residence uses are not allowed.
Ordinance No. 2025-268 seeks to authorize a special use permit for 413 North 33rd Street for a three-story addition to a single-family dwelling, due to zoning regulations. A public hearing is set for January 12, 2026.
The City of Richmond is considering Ordinance No. 2025-269 to allow special use of 406 Brook Road for retail, jewelry repair, and restaurant with outdoor dining. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026. This proposal supports local business growth.
Ordinance No. 2025-272, introduced on December 15, 2025, seeks to authorize the use of 2301 Fairmount Avenue for a multifamily dwelling with up to 17 units. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026. The special use permit aims to revitalize a vacant church, aligning with the Richmond 300 Master Plan.
The City of Richmond has introduced Ordinance No. 2025-274 to authorize special use of properties at 3013 and 3015 N Street for corner lot uses in the R-63 Multifamily District, including a commissary kitchen and social services. A public hearing is set for January 12, 2026.
Ordinance No. 2025-266 proposes to declare the City-owned property at 500 North 10th Street surplus and transfer it to the Economic Development Authority for a nominal fee. This aims to support redevelopment as part of the "City Center" mixed-use project. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026.
The City of Richmond's Planning Commission will review a request from Watchtower Homes for an exception to the subdivision ordinance at 3200 2nd Avenue. The request seeks to waive the 100-foot average lot depth requirement for three of seven proposed lots. This development aligns with the Richmond 300 Master Plan and a previously approved Special Use Permit. Staff recommends approval of the exception.
On December 15, 2025, Richmond's City Council introduced an ordinance to authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to enter a partnership with Henrico and Chesterfield Counties for a Recovery Academy initiative funded by the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority. Public hearing on the ordinance is scheduled for January 12, 2026.
The City of Richmond has introduced Ordinance No. 2025-275 to amend the FY 2025-2026 Special Fund Budget. It reallocates $1.1 million to create two new special funds within the Department of Justice Services: “Safer Communities – YWCA” and “Safer Communities – Next Up,” aimed at supporting gun violence prevention initiatives. A public hearing is scheduled for January 12, 2026.
The Richmond Education and Human Services Committee met on Nov 13, 2025, to discuss updates on Richmond Public Schools, food distribution during the federal shutdown, and gun violence prevention. They forwarded a resolution to support juvenile crime control programs to the full Council.
The Richmond City Planning Commission met on December 16, 2025, to appoint a new secretary and discuss the Code Refresh process. Key items included a proposal for five single-family homes on Tuxedo Boulevard, which was ultimately denied due to community opposition.
Richmond City Council's Chief of Staff RJ Warren highlights key accomplishments and priorities from the past six months: office restructuring, budget process improvements, and better legislative coordination. Council member feedback is requested to enhance support and staffing.
The City of Richmond has introduced legislative measures for 2026, including a legislative agenda, budget amendments, and funding for opioid recovery and sustainability initiatives. Public hearings on various proposals will begin on January 12, 2026.
Join the City of Richmond meeting online via Microsoft Teams for audio and video access. Stay informed about local legislation and city developments. Click the provided link to participate.
The City of Richmond's 2026 Legislative Agenda supports proposals for anti-rent gouging, affordable housing, and public safety funding. The Council seeks backing from the Virginia General Assembly for these priorities. A public hearing is scheduled for Dec 8, 2025.
On December 8, 2025, Richmond City Council will hold a public hearing to consider a resolution to allocate up to $2.2 million from the FY 2024-2025 general fund surplus for retirement bonuses, family support, and affordable housing initiatives.
On November 10, 2025, Richmond City Council discussed various appointments, housing legislation, and a proposed residential rental inspection program aimed at improving living conditions. Key ordinances will be continued for further review.
The 2025 Annual Report of the Urban Design Committee outlines member terms, by-laws, meeting dates, and the committee's advisory role to the Richmond City Planning Commission, focusing on urban design standards and community appearance. Public participation is encouraged.
The Richmond City Council met on November 10, 2025, to discuss several legislative items, including amendments and continuations for various ordinances and resolutions. Key topics included updates on homelessness services and preparation for the 2026 General Assembly session.
The City of Richmond will hold a public comment period on December 8, 2025, allowing residents to address City Council on various issues, including budget cuts for the Latin Jazz Festival and maintenance requests.
On November 5, 2025, the Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals approved several special exceptions for new single-family homes at various locations, allowing lot splits and construction despite disapprovals from the Zoning Administrator due to zoning ordinance requirements.
On November 5, 2025, Richmond's Board of Zoning Appeals reviewed multiple applications, granting special exceptions for lot splits and new single-family dwellings at various locations, while addressing zoning compliance issues. Public input was noted with no opposition.
The Richmond Planning Commission met on March 4, 2025, discussing updates on the Code Refresh project and the Richmond 300 Master Plan. Key items included proposals for multifamily dwellings and school expansions, all continued for future consideration.
The Richmond Planning Commission met on March 18, 2025, to discuss special use requests for residential and recreational developments. Key items included continuances for multifamily housing proposals and a resolution to amend zoning regulations for tobacco and hemp retail sales.
The City of Richmond's Urban Design Committee will meet on December 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Citizens can access the meeting via phone or online. Public comments can be submitted prior to the meeting or made live during the session.
The City of Richmond's Urban Design Committee is reviewing the Maury Street Streetscape Project Phase 2, aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and connectivity along Maury Street. The project includes new sidewalks, traffic calming measures, and landscaping.
The Richmond Inspire Plan aims to improve parks and recreation citywide, emphasizing community engagement, investment in underserved areas, and sustainability. A draft will be presented to City Council in December 2025 for public review.
The Richmond Organizational Development Standing Committee met on November 3, 2025, to discuss legislative priorities for the 2026 General Assembly, including low-income housing and school construction funding. The meeting also addressed impacts of the federal government shutdown on local programs.
The Richmond City Planning Commission has approved a resolution to amend the Stony Point Community Unit Plan, allowing for 28 single-family attached dwellings at 9040 Stony Point Parkway. This decision followed a public hearing and aligns with zoning regulations.
The City of Richmond's Public Art Commission met on October 23, 2025, to approve minutes from July 2025. Present were six commissioners, with three absent. The meeting was adjourned after discussing other business.
The Richmond Finance and Economic Development Committee discussed several ordinances on October 15, 2025, including funding for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, energy resilience planning, and tourism projects. They also reviewed board vacancies and addressed a resolution on mitigating housing displacement. All items were forwarded to the City Council for approval.
The City of Richmond is considering an ordinance to approve a public sculpture titled "Cardinal Points" by local artist Noah Scalin, to be installed at the end of South Addison Street. The project aims to enhance community engagement and improve public spaces.
The Finance & Economic Development Standing Committee convened on October 15, 2025, to review four ordinances: transferring $2M to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, accepting $10K for energy resilience planning, and two tourism projects. Presentations included risk management and tax relief program performance.
The City of Richmond is considering several legislative amendments and ordinances, including enhanced economic interest disclosures for board members, updates to the open data portal, special use permits for residential developments, and funding for public projects. Public hearings are scheduled for December 8, 2025.
The Richmond Land Use, Housing, & Transportation Committee discussed several ordinances and resolutions, including a one-year extension for Maymont Foundation's management of Maymont Park, a new bus stop agreement with FlixBus, zoning code amendments for historic structure penalties, and declaring surplus property at 8790 Strath Road for sale.
The Finance & Economic Development Standing Committee will review eight ordinances and resolutions, including funding for youth programs, infrastructure incentives for CoStar, and a bus boarding platform. Key discussions will cover ARPA expenditures and FY25 budget surplus.
The City of Richmond's 2026 Legislative Agenda emphasizes housing, public safety, education, and infrastructure improvements. Key requests include anti-rent gouging laws, funding for water treatment upgrades, and enhanced local control over zoning and housing policies.
Join the City of Richmond's meeting online via Microsoft Teams. Access audio and video through your computer, tablet, or smartphone. For details and to join, visit the provided link. Engage with local legislation and community discussions.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, to consider an application from 1900 Decatur Street LLC for a building permit to convert a vacant building into a 5-unit multifamily dwelling at 1900 Decatur St.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, regarding BZA 44-2025. The application seeks approval for a lot split and permits to build two single-family homes on Corbin Street, requiring public input.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM to consider BZA 45-2025. The application seeks approval for a lot split and permit to build a new single-family dwelling at 3601 Decatur Street. Public participation is welcome.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, at 1 PM to review BZA 46-2025, an application by Brad Elliott Pledger for a building permit to enclose a rear porch and add a sunroom and rooftop deck at 405 N Robinson St. Public comments are welcome.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, at 1 PM to consider an application for an electrical permit to install electric vehicle chargers at 320 North 2nd Street, a nonconforming parking lot. Public participation is encouraged.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on December 3, 2025, to review an application for a building permit for 3010 Maplewood Avenue. Proposed developments include a bike shed, roof deck, attic expansion, and carport. Comments can be submitted online or in person.
The City of Richmond's 2026 Legislative Agenda highlights key initiatives for affordable housing, public safety, education, and economic development. It seeks state support for a revised Low-Income Housing Tax Credit, funding for school construction, and resources to improve public safety, infrastructure, and health services.
The City of Richmond's Tourism Annual Presentation reports visitor spending of $982.1 million in 2024, supporting nearly 9,000 jobs. It highlights ongoing marketing efforts, regional cooperation, and the need for a competitive HQ hotel to capture lost economic opportunities.
The Richmond Organizational Development Standing Committee met on October 6, 2025, to discuss FY2027 non-departmental grant processes and legislative proposals for the 2026 Virginia General Assembly, emphasizing transparency and accountability in grant management.
The City of Richmond has enacted regulations on retail sales of tobacco and hemp products through ORD. 2025-157. This legislation defines uses, restricts locations, and aims to reduce youth access and health risks. Compliance measures are outlined for existing retailers.
The Public Safety Standing Committee will discuss public safety concerns related to vape shops and receive updates from the Richmond Ambulance Authority. Ordinance No. 2025-222 proposes increasing towing fees and outlines payment methods.
The Richmond Government Operations Standing Committee discussed several ordinances on October 22, 2025, focusing on enhancing transparency and open data, including a new FOIA library and procurement data requirements. Presentations included updates on sustainability initiatives and the Green Fleet Plan.
On October 14, 2025, Richmond introduced legislative measures, including new directors for the Greater Richmond Transit Company and amendments on rental inspections, open data transparency, and nightclub conditions. Public hearings are set for November 10, 2025.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, at 1 PM to consider Trek Properties LLC's application for a lot split and permit to build a single-family dwelling at 2417 Warwick Avenue. Public comments welcome.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, at 1 PM regarding a building permit application for a new single-family dwelling at 2201 Venable Street. A variance is needed due to setback issues. Public participation is encouraged.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, at 1 PM regarding BZA 41-2025. The application seeks approval for a lot split and a building permit for a new single-family dwelling at 3108 Groveland Ave. Public comments welcome.
The Richmond Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on November 5, 2025, at 1:00 PM regarding BZA 42-2025. The application seeks approval for a lot split and a permit to build a new single-family home at 3310 Semmes Avenue. Public participation is encouraged.
The City of Richmond's trail system, integral to its parks since 1972, emphasizes connectivity and safe access. The Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Facilities aims to enhance trails, supporting community health and economic growth in line with the Richmond 300 plan.
The City of Richmond's Governmental Operations Standing Committee reports multiple vacancies across various boards and commissions, including the Clean City Commission and the Public Utilities and Services Commission. Key appointments are needed for effective governance. Interested residents can apply to fill these roles.
The Richmond Governmental Operations Standing Committee met on September 24, 2025, discussing public works, transparency legislation, and funding for a wastewater project. Key proposals include enhancing FOIA transparency and a new data portal. Details will continue in upcoming meetings.
The Richmond Governmental Operations Standing Committee met on June 11, 2025, to discuss various ordinances, including amendments to city codes for utility services, public health agreements, and procurement processes. Key items included aligning city laws with state regulations and modifying residency requirements for certain city employees. The committee recommended approval of all discussed ordinances.
The Richmond Governmental Operations Committee met on July 23, 2025, to discuss employee engagement, city code reports, and a circular economy initiative. Key actions included recommending approval of ordinances to streamline staff appointments and authorize design-build procurement for Canoe Run Park.
The FY25 Joint Energy Team Annual Report highlights Richmond's efforts to enhance clean energy and operational efficiency. Established in FY24, the team includes over 100 employees focused on sustainability, saving hundreds of thousands and earning national accolades.
The City of Richmond's Green Fleet Transition Plan aims to enhance sustainability by prioritizing electric and hybrid vehicles in its fleet. The plan aligns with RVA 2050 emission goals, addressing infrastructure gaps and fiscal constraints while promoting eco-friendly practices.
The City of Richmond is advancing the Fall Line Trail, a 13-mile shared-use path connecting Ashland to Petersburg. With public support and secured funding, the trail aims to enhance economic growth and connectivity. Ongoing planning and engagement efforts continue.
The Richmond Land Use, Housing, & Transportation Committee discussed several ordinances and resolutions, including utility easements for Lewis Ginter Gardens, a lease with Richmond Community ToolBank, and penalties for demolishing historic structures.