City Council
Council Chamber, 2nd Floor - City Hall
Agenda — 208 items
- 1 Council Members Present
- 2 There were no appointments or reappointments for consideration.
- 3 Invocation
- 4 Pastor Peter DuMont of Eternity Church provided the invocation. Members of Council and the audience recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
- 4 Council President Cynthia Newbille called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and presided.
- 5 Call to Order
- 5 Spanish Interpretation Announcement
- 6 Chamber Emergency Evacuation Plan Announcement and Public Speaker Guidelines
- 6 City Clerk Candice Reid stated that Spanish interpretation service was available in the Council Chamber and that attendees should speak with a representative to receive the appropriate equipment. She also stated that Spanish interpretation service was available virtually through Microsoft Teams. Roxana Talavera-Denson, Language Access Coordinator, Office of Immigrant and Refugee Engagement, provided Spanish interpretation of Ms. Reid's announcement.
- 7 The Honorable Cynthia Newbille, President The Honorable Katherine Jordan, Vice President The Honorable Sarah Abubaker (early departure) The Honorable Andrew Breton The Honorable Kenya Gibson The Honorable Nicole Jones The Honorable Stephanie Lynch (early departure) The Honorable Ellen Robertson (early departure) The Honorable Reva Trammell (early departure)
- 7 Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
- 8 Action on Appointments and Reappointments
- 9 Awards and Presentations
- 10 20260727 Formal Awards and Recognitions Ceremony Docket
- 10 Upon the President's request, Deputy City Clerk Kiley Kesecker provided information on the appropriate way to evacuate the Council Chamber in an emergency along with public speaker guidelines.
- 11 Public Comment
- 12 July 27, 2026 Public Comment Period Speakers List
- 13 Agenda Review and Amendments
- 14 Amendments to the agenda were presented as follows:
- 15 Councilor Kenya Gibson moved that item 3, ORD. 2026-109 be moved from the Consent Agenda to the Regular Agenda. The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 15 President Cynthia Newbille, Councilor Nicole Jones, and Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald, highlighted the resilience of Black businesses, their role in strengthening neighborhoods and the city’s economy, and the city’s commitment to supporting minority business development.
- 16 Councilor Nicole Jones moved to approve the remaining agenda amendments as presented, which was seconded and approved: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 16 Scottessa Hurte, African American CEO Roundtable charter member, recognized representatives from several organizations in attendance, and emphasized the work they do every day to strengthen, support, and champion Black owned businesses throughout the region.
- 17 Vice President Jordan moved to expedite consideration of the resolution entitled:
- 18 To approve the issuance by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority of its multifamily housing revenue bonds in an amount up to $20,000,000 for the acquisition, construction, and equipping of the approximately 126-unit multifamily residential rental housing project located at 815 North 35th Street and 823 North 36th Street in the City of Richmond. (7th District)
- 19 Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings
- 19 Aurora Britt spoke in opposition to the city's contract with Flock Safety.
- 20 FY 2027 Budget Work Session Minutes
- 20 Jaume Plumb-Planas spoke in opposition to the city's contract with Flock Safety.
- 21 June 15, 2026 Code Refresh Work Session Minutes
- 21 Morgan Hafer stated that very little progress has been made on safe bike infrastructure after many years and trips by officials and bike planners to Europe.
- 22 June 22, 2026 Informal Meeting Minutes
- 22 S. Amtullah Jones spoke on unsafe conditions and criminal activity related to an alley located near the home of her in-laws.
- 23 June 22, 2026 Formal Meeting Minutes
- 23 Selden Richardson spoke on the importance of preserving the character of the Westwood neighborhood and expressed concerns the proposed density changes in Code Refresh.
- 24 July 6, 2026 Special Meeting Minutes
- 24 Charles Pool, Oregon Hill Home Improvement Council, spoke in opposition to Code Refresh.
- 25 Introduction of Ordinances and Resolutions
- 25 A copy of the material provided has been filed.
- 26 July 27, 2026 Introduction Papers List
- 26 Anas Elkattan expressed concerns with the development at 1401-1407 Hull Street, noting structural damage caused to his property and documented issues with the developer and the overall process.
- 27 Reports or Announcements by Members of the Council
- 27 A copy of the material provided has been filed.
- 28 Adjournment
- 28 page break
- 29 PAGE BREAK
- 30 City Council is Richmond City's local legislative body and is composed of one council representative elected from each of the city's nine voter districts. Council members are elected to serve a four year term of office. Council elects one of its own to serve as the president and presiding officer for a two year term.
- 31 Time and Place of Meetings
- 32 The public is invited and encouraged to attend and participate in the City Council meetings. The City Council meets in the City Hall second floor Council Chamber, in informal work session at 4:00 p.m., and in formal session at 6:00 p.m., on the second and fourth Monday during the months of January, February, March, April, May, June and September and only on the second Monday during the months of October, November and December. In the month of July, one such meeting is held on the fourth Monday of the month and in the month of August, no such meetings are held. All meetings of the Council are open to the public.
- 33 Public Comment Period
- 34 The Public Comment Period is an opportunity for persons to address Council concerning the services, policies and affairs of the city and to discuss issues not on the agenda for the business meeting.
- 35 Guidelines for Public Participation*
- 36 The maximum time allotted to persons speaking to any matter under consideration by the Council shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes for proponents and thirty (30) minutes for opponents. Speakers should state their full legal name, any organization(s) they represent and any economic or professional relationship(s) that would benefit by the adoption of the paper(s) they are addressing.
- 37 Speakers are not permitted to address or question the Council Chief of Staff, the City Attorney, the City Clerk, or any staff member directly. Questions should be directed to the President who may, at his/her discretion, solicit a response. Applause is permitted during the “Awards and Presentations” period only.
- 38 Persons speaking regarding agenda items are generally limited to three (3) minutes; however, no individual from the public may speak for more than ten (10) minutes total during the business meeting. Individuals may express their views in writing in lieu of an oral presentation.
- 39 Reasonable accommodations will be made for persons with a disability. Individuals are encouraged to contact the City Clerk’s Office at 804-646-7955 for a “Request for Reasonable Accommodation” form, which must be completed to receive assistance.
- 40 * The full text of the Council's Rules of Procedure is available on the City Clerk's website at www.rva.gov/office-city-clerk or in the Office of the City Clerk located in City Hall at 900 East Broad Street, Suite 200.
- 41 PAGE BREAK
- 42 THE CONSENT AGENDA
- 42 The Consent Agenda
- 43 Items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and non-controversial. The Consent Agenda provides a method for the expeditious handling of items that do not require discussion and will be approved unanimously by a single roll-call vote of the Council. The public may speak to any item on the Consent Agenda when the public hearing is announced by the President.
- 43 The following ordinances and resolutions were considered:
- 1. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3317 Rear Monument Avenue for the purpose of up to four single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 2. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3415 Crenshaw Mews Alley for the purpose of up to thirteen attached garages, upon certain terms and conditions, and to repeal Ord. No. 2021-325, adopted Dec. 13, 2021, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (As Amended) (1st District)
- 3. To close, to public use and travel, a portion of public right-of-way located south of Brookland Park Boulevard and east of Robin Hood Road, consisting of approximately 11,105± square feet upon certain terms and conditions.
- 4. To amend City Code § 11-105, concerning weeds and other vegetation, and to amend ch. 11, art. IV, by adding therein a new section numbered 11-101, concerning definitions, for the purpose of establishing exemptions for [Virginia Friendly Landscapes] native plants. (As Amended)
- 5. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 901 South Meadow Street, 903 South Meadow Street, 905 South Meadow Street, 907 South Meadow Street, 911 South Meadow Street, 915 South Meadow Street, 921 South Meadow Street, and 923 South Meadow Street, for the purpose of up to [31] 21 single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (5th District)
- 6. To close, to public use and travel, an unimproved portion of Lafayette Street, located north of Sterling Street and south of Grove Avenue, consisting of approximately 5,159± square feet, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 7. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2502 4th Avenue for the purpose of a day nursery for up to 12 children, upon certain terms and conditions. (6th District)
- 8. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1235 North 36th Street for the purpose of up to two single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District)
- 9. To authorize the special use of the property known as 5 North Colonial Avenue Rear for the purpose of up to six attached garages, which may be rented to persons who reside outside of the same entire block as the Property, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 10. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 5219 Euclid Avenue, 5221 Euclid Avenue, and 5221 ½ Euclid Avenue for the purpose of up to six single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District)
- 11. To amend and reordain Ord. No. 2021-018, adopted Feb. 22, 2021, as previously amended by Ord. No. 2022-052, adopted Mar. 28, 2022, which authorized the special use of the properties known as 5300 Rear Hull Street Road, 5311 Warwick Road, 5315 Warwick Road, and 5323 Warwick Road for the purpose of up to 65 single-family attached dwellings, to instead authorize up to 73 single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions, to modify the addresses included in the special use and certain terms and conditions, upon certain terms and conditions. (9th District)
- 12. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $15,987.00 from the Virginia Department of Historic Resources and to amend the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities entitled “Forest View Cemetery Special Fund,” and appropriating the increase to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities’ “Forest View Cemetery Special Fund” by $15,987.00 for the purpose of funding preservation, maintenance, and stewardship activities at Forest View Cemetery.
- 13. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $36,000.00 from the Church Hill Association of RVA and to amend the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities entitled “Libby Hill Park House Special Fund,” and appropriating the increase to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities’ “Libby Hill Park House Special Fund” by $36,000.00 for the purpose of restoring the Libby Hill Park House.
- 14. To adopt a new Code of the City of Richmond, Virginia; to repeal the Code of the City of Richmond, Virginia, 2020; to prescribe the effect of such repeal; and to provide for the manner of amending the new City Code.
- 15. To amend Ord. No. 2026-063, adopted May 11, 2026, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Special Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by transferring $480,000.00 from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services Special Fund, and to amend Ord. No. 2026-065, adopted May 11, 2026, which accepted a program of proposed Capital Improvement Projects for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and the four fiscal years thereafter, adopted a Capital Budget for Fiscal Year 2026-2027, and determined a means of financing the same, by appropriating $480,000.00 of such transferred funds to the Department of Fire and Emergency Services’ “Fire Training Facility Burn Tower Replacement” project in the Capital Investment Opportunities category for the purpose of constructing the City’s burn building to enhance the safety of fire service personnel while conducting live fire training.
- 16. To declare a public necessity for and to authorize the acquisition by gift, purchase, condemnation, or otherwise, certain fee simple interests, temporary construction easements, and permanent easements for the public purpose of facilitating the construction of the Hobby Hill Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project.
- 17. To declare a public necessity for and to authorize (i) the acquisition of the real property known as 5624 Campbell Avenue and (ii) the grant and acceptance of certain easements relating to the acquisition of such real property, for the purpose of implementing the combined sewer overflow mitigation project known as the CSO-012 Storage Tank project.
- 18. To amend City Code §§ 16-51, concerning the creation of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, and 16-113, concerning the administration of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, to ensure all receipts derived from principal, interest, penalties, and fees received for the repayment and management of loans or grants from the Affordable Housing Trust Fund are reserved for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund.
- 19. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a First Amendment to Grant Agreement between the City of Richmond, 512 Hull Street, LLC, and the Economic Development Authority of the City of Richmond for the purpose of clarifying the affordable housing requirements applicable to the residential development located at 512 Hull Street. (6th District)
- 20. To approve an amendment to the Master Plan for the City of Richmond, adopted by the City Planning Commission on Oct. 5, 2020, and approved by the City Council by Ord. No. 2020-236, adopted Dec. 14, 2020, to incorporate the Oak Grove Hillside Bellemeade Community Plan detailing the vision, guiding principles, goals, strategies, and big moves for development of and public investment in the Oak Grove, Hillside, and Bellemeade neighborhoods.
- 21. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1110 Oakwood Avenue for the purpose of transitional housing, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District)
- 22. To amend and reordain Ord. No. 2025-152, adopted July 28, 2025, which authorized the special use of the property known as 2300 Ingram Avenue for the purpose of up to seven single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions, to modify the addresses included in the special use and the plans. (8th District)
- 23. To amend Ord. No. 2026-063, adopted May 11, 2026, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by (i) modifying the name of certain line items in the attachment entitled “General Fund Budget, Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations, July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027,” (ii) transferring and appropriating certain funds from certain Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations line items to such modified line items, (iii) transferring and appropriating the remaining funds from such modified lines items to the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services, and (iv) authorizing the Chief Administrator Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute the necessary documents to effect such appropriations, all for the purpose of providing grants to certain entities and providing funding to the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services for the procurement of administration services for such grants.
- 66 Public Hearing
- 24. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Grant Agreement between the City of Richmond, ECG Rady, LP, and the Economic Development Authority of the City of Richmond for the purpose of facilitating the construction of an affordable residential development located at 2811 Rady Street, and to repeal Ord. No. 2025-008, adopted Jan. 27, 2025.
- 67 Murray Withrow spoke in support of ORD. 2026-167 and provided information on the residential mentorship program that would be located at the property.
- 25. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Shockoe Legacy Foundation Grant Contract between the City of Richmond and the Shockoe Legacy Foundation for the purpose of funding expenses incurred by the Shockoe Legacy Foundation for the planning and development of the Slavery and Freedom Heritage Site, including the Lumpkin’s Pavilion and the National Slavery Museum, in the city of Richmond.
- 68 George White spoke in support of ORD. 2026-167 and the residential mentorship program, which gives disadvantaged young men a stable foundation and positive environment for opportunities.
- 26. To amend the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 General Fund Budget by (i) re-appropriating $3,168,000.00 from the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 General Fund Committed Fund Balance to the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget, (ii) creating a new line item in the Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations agency entitled “Presbyterian Homes and Family Services, Inc.,” and (iii) appropriating such $3,168,000.00 to such new line item and to existing Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations agency Central Virginia Legal Aid Society, Inc., Freeze Program, and Southside Community Development and Housing Corporation line items, all for the purpose of funding active housing cost relief initiatives serving City residents.
- 69 The Consent Agenda was adopted: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 27. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause the Department of Planning and Development Review to (i) collaborate with the residents of and community stakeholders in the Westwood neighborhood, bordered by Dunbar Street[, Patterson Avenue, and] to Glenburnie Road and from Stokes Lane to the north side of Patterson Avenue, to evaluate and recommend appropriate land use, zoning, and policy tools, and (ii) develop community-informed design guidelines and strategies to preserve the cultural and historic character of the Westwood neighborhood and support neighborhood stability, and (iii) provide a written report of such findings and recommendations. (As Amended) (1st District)
- 70 Motion
- 28. To express the City Council’s support for and request the Commonwealth Transportation Board to provide funding for Chesterfield County’s SMART SCALE Round 7 candidate projects for 2026.
- 71 Councilor Andrew Breton moved that the resolution entitled:
- 29. To express the City Council’s support for and request the Commonwealth Transportation Board to provide funding for Henrico County’s SMART SCALE Round 7 candidate projects for 2026.
- 27. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause the Department of Planning and Development Review to (i) collaborate with the residents of and community stakeholders in the Westwood neighborhood, bordered by Dunbar Street[, Patterson Avenue, and] to Glenburnie Road and from Stokes Lane to the north side of Patterson Avenue, to evaluate and recommend appropriate land use, zoning, and policy tools, and (ii) develop community-informed design guidelines and strategies to preserve the cultural and historic character of the Westwood neighborhood and support neighborhood stability, and (iii) provide a written report of such findings and recommendations. (As Amended) (1st District)
- 30. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer execute a Joint Gilpin Transformation Working Group Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Richmond and the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority to establish the intended roles of the parties as partners in the redevelopment of the Gilpin Court housing community, and to request that the Chief Administrative Officer enter similar memoranda of understanding with the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority for future redevelopment of other Richmond public housing communities.
- 73 be amended to modify the substance of the collaboration and the neighborhood borders by changing the streets and roads that serve as boundaries.
- 74 The Regular Agenda
- 74 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 31. To amend City Code § 12-16, concerning publication of the City’s payment register, for the purpose of promoting transparency and accountability in the expenditure of public funds by providing public access to information regarding payments made by the City to vendors for goods and services and reimbursements to employees, while protecting confidential and personal information as required by law. (As Amended)
- 75 RES. 2026-R024 was considered.
- 32. To authorize the Council’s Organizational Development Standing Committee to investigate the City’s failure to publish a monthly payment register as required by City Code § 12-16 and application of exclusions allowed under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
- 76 Councilor Breton introduced the proposed resolution, stating that the community driven neighborhood plan is an investment of city time and expertise in a resilient, under recognized historic Black community.
- 33. To order the submission to the qualified voters of the City of Richmond of the question of whether the City should be authorized to levy a local sales tax at a rate not to exceed one percent, the revenues from which shall be used solely for capital projects for the construction or renovation of public school facilities, for a referendum thereon.
- 77 Public Hearing
- 78 Jeanette Brown, Westwood Civic League President, spoke on the historical significance of the Westwood neighborhood and in support of RES. 2026-R024. She requested genuine collaboration with the community on tools that will sustain and preserve Westwood.
- 79 Vicky Hinton read a statement of support for the proposed resolution by S. Norwood Thornton on behalf of extended families that helped build Westwood.
- 80 Breanna Prentis, Westwood Baptist Church member, spoke in support of RES. 2026-R024, stating that community character must be protected and design decisions should be centered on existing and multi-generational Westwood residents.
- 81 Ron Skinner, Westwood resident, spoke in support of the proposed resolution and asked Council to use vision and prudence to preserve neighborhoods like Westwood.
- 82 Cyane Crump, Historic Richmond Foundation Executive Director, spoke in support of the proposed resolution and stated that historic designation alone does not fully protect Westwood so overlay and planning tools are also needed.
- 83 Council members thanked Westwood residents for continuing to make their voices heard and engaging in the process, noting the importance of protecting Richmond's historically and culturally significant neighborhoods.
- 84 All members of Council requested to be added as co-patrons to RES. 2026-R024.
- 85 There was no further discussion and RES. 2026-R024 was adopted: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 87 The following ordinance was considered:
- 89 Councilor Kenya Gibson stated that she requested that the proposed ordinance be moved to the regular agenda to allow for public comments, noting that the community still has concerns about details of the site plan. She also highlighted a discrepancy between the ordinance notice that states there would be 34 parking spaces and the current plans that indicated 24 spaces.
- 90 Public Hearing
- 91 Chris Banks, Sherwood Park Civic Association Government Affairs and Safety Committee Chair, spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance, noting the significant loss of public space and concerns with pedestrian safety.
- 92 David Maier spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance, stating that converting the green right‑of‑way into a parking lot would permanently damage the historic character of the area and reduce green space.
- 93 Robert Hood spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance, stating that the grassy right-of-way is a defining feature of the neighborhood and the proposed parking lot would have a negative impact on neighborhood character and property values.
- 94 Tara Fitzpatrick spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance, stating the need for safer bike and pedestrian infrastructure rather than sacrificing neighborhood green space for cars.
- 95 John Gass, Sherwood Park Civic Association, spoke in opposition to the proposed ordinance and stated that any closure or parking plan should be a part of a broader neighborhood safety approach.
- 96 Andrew Ross, Waldorf School Executive Director, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance and explained that the right‑of‑way closure and parking lot are intended to get cars off streets and improve circulation. He also expressed willingness to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the civic association to establish shared expectations.
- 97 Pete Markham, Waldorf School Parents Association Chair, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance, stating that it would reduce on street congestion and unsafe driving maneuvers.
- 98 Lory Markham, urban planner and designer of the proposed project, spoke in support of the proposed ordinance and stated that it is part of a comprehensive safety solution, not a stand alone parking expansion.
- 99 Councilor Kenya Gibson stated that additional time for thorough review and community discussion would be ideal considering the ongoing neighborhood concerns about site plans and impacts.
- 100 Councilor Gibson moved to continue ORD. 2026-109 to the Monday, September 28, 2026, Council meeting, which was seconded and approved: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0.
- 101 Councilor Sarah Abubaker left the meeting at 8:02 p.m.
- 102 The following resolution was considered:
- 104 Vice President Katherine Jordan introduced the proposed resolution and explained that it would simply place a question on the ballot asking voters to approve a 1% local sales tax dedicated to school construction and renovation.
- 105 Odie Donald introduced David Rose of Davenport Public Finance, who gave a presentation on debt service and revenue projections based on the enactment of the proposed 1% sales tax.
- 106 A copy of the material provided has been filed.
- 107 Public Hearing
- 108 Shavonda Fernandez, Richmond City School Board Chair, spoke on behalf of the School Board, stating their support for putting the 1% sales tax referendum on the ballot. She stated that establishing a dedicated funding stream will help with modernization and ease pressure on the rest of the Richmond Public Schools (RPS) and city budgets.
- 109 Jason Kamras, RPS Superintendent, spoke in support of the proposed resolution and committed that, if the referendum passes and new funds are available: • RPS will create a new facilities plan as the roadmap for using the funds. • The process will be transparent and focused on efficient use of every dollar. • Every child will get a fair chance to be educated in a modern facility.
- 110 Dr. Jackie McDonnough, former RPS teacher and VCU School of Education faculty, spoke in support of placing the 1% sales tax referendum on the ballot, but questioned why previously dedicated school improvement funds are not being used while buildings deteriorate. She also expressed concerns that new tax revenue will be managed properly.
- 111 Mariah White, parent of RPS students, spoke in support of the proposed resolution on the condition that the revenue be used exclusively for school capital projects.
- 112 Councilor Stephanie Lynch requested that the Superintendent bring at least a draft of the schools facilities master plan by before Council by September.
- 113 Council members expressed support for advancing the referendum but focused on the importance of transparency and accountability with clear public reporting about school facilities projects.
- 114 There was no further discussion and RES. 2026-R028 was adopted: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 115 Motions (continued)
- 116 Councilor Andrew Breton moved that the ordinance entitled:
- 2. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3415 Crenshaw Mews Alley for the purpose of up to thirteen attached garages, upon certain terms and conditions, and to repeal Ord. No. 2021-325, adopted Dec. 13, 2021, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (As Amended) (1st District)
- 118 be amended and continued to September 14, 2026, to modify certain terms and conditions.
- 119 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 120 Councilor Ellen Robertson moved that the ordinance entitled:
- 4. To amend City Code § 11-105, concerning weeds and other vegetation, and to amend ch. 11, art. IV, by adding therein a new section numbered 11-101, concerning definitions, for the purpose of establishing exemptions for [Virginia Friendly Landscapes] native plants. (As Amended)
- 122 be amended and continued to September 14, 2026, to modify such exemptions and certain definitions.
- 123 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 124 Councilor Nicole Jones moved that the ordinance entitled:
- 5. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 901 South Meadow Street, 903 South Meadow Street, 905 South Meadow Street, 907 South Meadow Street, 911 South Meadow Street, 915 South Meadow Street, 921 South Meadow Street, and 923 South Meadow Street, for the purpose of up to [31] 21 single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (5th District)
- 126 be amended and continued to September 14, 2026, to modify the number of dwelling units, certain terms and conditions, and the Plans.
- 127 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 128 Councilor Andrew Breton moved that the ordinance entitled:
- 31. To amend City Code § 12-16, concerning publication of the City’s payment register, for the purpose of promoting transparency and accountability in the expenditure of public funds by providing public access to information regarding payments made by the City to vendors for goods and services and reimbursements to employees, while protecting confidential and personal information as required by law. (As Amended)
- 130 be amended and continued to September 28, 2026, to modify certain definitions and the contents of the payment register.
- 131 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 34. To approve the issuance by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority of its multifamily housing revenue bonds in an amount up to $20,000,000 for the acquisition, construction, and equipping of the approximately 126-unit multifamily residential rental housing project located at 815 North 35th Street and 823 North 36th Street in the City of Richmond. (7th District)
- 134 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 135 RES. 2026-R030 was considered.
- 136 Michelle Brown Peters, Deputy Director for Housing and Community Development stated that the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority (RRHA) requested that Housing and Community Development bring the proposed resolution to Council for expedited review.
- 137 Sherrill Hampton, RRHA, described the project as a bond funded affordable housing development with 126 total units.
- 138 Public Hearing
- 139 There were no public hearing speakers.
- 140 Councilor Andrew Breton asked for clarity on the bond volume cap and the urgency behind the request for expedited consideration.
- 141 Mike Graff, RRHA Bond Counsel with McGuire Woods, explained that revenue bonds for affordable housing developments are awarded a state bond volume cap allocation on a competitive basis. He also stated that without expedited action, Richmond’s application might be at a disadvantage compared to projects submitted by other localities due to Council's upcoming summer recess.
- 142 Councilor Gibson stated her intention to abstain from the vote, and added that when a project is located in her district, she does not want it to be expedited because it does not allow for ample public input.
- 143 There was no further discussion, and RES. 2026-R030 was adopted: Ayes 6, Breton, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abstentions 2, Gibson, Lynch. Abubaker had departed the meeting.
- 145 There were no amendments or corrections to the following meeting minutes, which were approved as presented.
- 153 City Council will hold a public hearing on the following ordinances and resolution on Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.:
- 35. To close, to public use and travel, an alley in the block bounded by South Meadow Street, Appomattox Street, Hampton Street and Powhatan Street, consisting of approximately 1,600± square feet, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District)
- 36. To authorize the conditional use of the property known as 2900 West Broad Street for the purpose of a nightclub, upon certain terms and conditions. (2nd District)
- 37. To amend and reordain Ord. No. 2025-022, adopted Feb. 24, 2025, which authorized the special use of the property known as 1001 Barlen Drive for the purpose of up to two single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions, to modify the plans and the terms and conditions. (9th District)
- 38. To amend and reordain Ord. No. 76-61-59, adopted Apr. 26, 1976, as previously amended by Ord. No. 87-273-260, adopted Dec. 21, 1987, which authorized the special use of the real estate, a parcel of land, located at the northeast corner of Woodlawn Avenue and Grove Avenue, fronting 152 feet on Grove Avenue, and 160 feet, more or less, on Woodlawn Avenue, for the purpose of a physicians’ office and general office purposes, upon certain terms and conditions, to modify the special use and certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 39. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 1800 North 27th Street and 1802 North 27th Street for the purpose of up to four single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions, and to repeal Ord. No. 2024-327, adopted Feb. 10, 2025, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (7th District)
- 40. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1003 Baywood Court for the purpose of up to one single-family detached dwelling and one two-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 41. To authorize the special use of the property known as 4508 West Broad Street for the purpose of automobile sales and service, excluding engine replacement, transmission replacement, and collision repairs, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 42. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1900 Broad Rock Boulevard for the purpose of a building accessory to an automotive sales and repair facility, upon certain terms and conditions. (9th District)
- 43. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 2410 Brook Road, 2412 Brook Road, 2412 ½ Brook Road, 2414 Brook Road, and 2416 Brook Road for the purpose of no more than one multifamily dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (3rd District)
- 44. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1501 Brookland Parkway for the purpose of one single-family detached dwelling and one dwelling unit within an accessory structure, upon certain terms and conditions. (3rd District)
- 45. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 1101 Hampton Street, 2004 Powhatan Street, 2008 Powhatan Street, 1006 South Meadow Street, 1008 South Meadow Street, and 1010 South Meadow Street, for the purpose of no more than one multifamily dwelling and off-street parking area, upon certain terms and conditions, and to repeal Ord. No. 84-310-278, adopted Dec. 17, 1984, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (5th District)
- 46. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3407 Lawson Street, for the purpose of up to two two-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District)
- 47. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2300 Mimosa Street for the purpose of no more than two single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (6th District)
- 48. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2310 Mimosa Street for the purpose of up to 22 single-family attached dwellings and one single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (6th District)
- 49. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1209 Overbrook Road for the purpose of a multifamily dwelling containing up to 100 dwelling units, upon certain terms and conditions. (3rd District)
- 50. To authorize the special use of the property known as 5729 Swanson Road for the purpose of up to three single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (9th District)
- 51. To authorize the special use of the property known as 5706 York Road for the purpose of up to eight single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (1st District)
- 52. To establish the Affordable Dwelling Unit Advisory Committee for the purpose of advising the Council and the Mayor on the development of an affordable housing dwelling unit program.
- 53. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $137,038.00 from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services and amend the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the Department of Justice Services entitled “Byrne/JAG Program - Juvenile Detention Centers Special Fund,” and appropriating the increase to the Department of Justice Services’ “Byrne/JAG Program - Juvenile Detention Centers Special Fund” by $137,038.00 for the purpose of funding a juvenile detention center program.
- 54. To adopt the City of Richmond’s Emergency Operations Plan in accordance with the Commonwealth of Virginia Emergency Services and Disaster Law of 2000.
- 174 City Council will hold a public hearing on the following ordinances and resolutions on Monday, September 28, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.:
- 55. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $500,000.00 from the Historic Richmond Foundation and to amend the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities entitled “Pump House Roof Replacement - HRF Special Fund,” and appropriating the increase to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities’ “Pump House Roof Replacement - HRF Special Fund” by $500,000.00 for the purpose of providing funding for the Pump House Roof Replacement project.
- 56. To amend Ord. No. 2026-063, adopted May 11, 2026, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by (i) transferring $150,000.00 from the Office of Sustainability, (ii) creating certain new line items in the Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations agency, and (iii) appropriating such $150,000.00 of transferred funds to such new line items in the Outside Agencies and Central Appropriations agency, all for the purpose of providing grants to certain entities to facilitate the implementation of neighborhood climate resilience projects.
- 57. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a License Agreement between the City of Richmond and The Friends of East End Cemetery, Inc. for the purpose of providing maintenance services to include but not limited to vegetation management, grave care, and documentation at East End Cemetery and Evergreen Cemetery located at 1750 Stony Run Parkway, 1751 Evergreen Road, and 3600 East Richmond Road in the City of Richmond, and 50 Evergreen Road in the County of Henrico.
- 58. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept a donation of certain services, including but not limited to the design of an AI proof of concept and a survey, valued at approximately $268,209.02 from Ernst & Young LLP and, in connection therewith, to execute a Donation of Services and Data Sharing Agreement between the City of Richmond and Ernst & Young LLP, all for the purpose of enhancing the City’s certificate of occupancy processes.
- 59. To amend City Code § 26-355, concerning the levy of tax on real estate, to establish a tax rate of $1.16 for the tax year beginning Jan. 1, 2028.
- 60. To amend City Code § 27-197, concerning parking prohibitions in specified places, to modify the prohibited parking zone near intersections and to allow the Chief Administrative Officer to establish longer no-parking distances.
- 61. To express the Council’s support for the constitutional amendments on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot concerning reproductive freedom, marriage equality, and restoration of voting rights upon release from incarceration.
- 62. To request that the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer prepare administrative regulations for City departments, agencies, and employees regarding the disclosure of City information concerning the citizenship or immigration status of persons and use of City-owned resources for purposes of civil federal immigration enforcement by no later than January 1, 2027.
- 184 Members of Council provided reports and announcements regarding respective district meetings and activities.
- 185 Councilor Reva Trammell left the meeting at 9:06 p.m.
- 186 Councilor Stephanie Lynch left the meeting at 9:07 p.m.
- 187 Councilor Ellen Robertson left the meeting at 9:13 p.m.
- 188 Vice President Katherine Jordan left the meeting at 9:16 p.m.
- 190 There being no further business before the Council, the meeting adjourned at 9:17 p.m.
- 191 ___________________________________ CITY CLERK