City Council
Council Chamber, 2nd Floor - City Hall
Agenda — 202 items
- 1 Council Members Present
- 2 Absent
- 3 The Honorable Stephanie Lynch
- 4 Call to Order
- 5 Pastor Carla Pratt Keyes of Ginter Park Presbyterian Church provided the invocation. Members of Council and the audience recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
- 6 Spanish Interpretation Announcement
- 7 Chamber Emergency Evacuation Plan Announcement and Public Speaker Guidelines
- 8 The Honorable Cynthia Newbille, President The Honorable Katherine Jordan, Vice President The Honorable Sarah Abubaker (late arrival) The Honorable Andrew Breton The Honorable Kenya Gibson The Honorable Nicole Jones The Honorable Ellen Robertson The Honorable Reva Trammell
- 9 Action on Appointments and Reappointments
- 10 Board Appointments and Reappointments - May 11, 2026
- 11 Awards and Presentations
- 12 Public Comment
- 13 May 11, 2026 Public Comment Period Speakers List
- 13 Electronic Participation
- 14 Agenda Review and Amendments
- 14 Vice President Jordan announced that, pursuant to Rule III (D)(4)(b) of Council’s Rules of Procedure, Councilor Stephanie Lynch requested to participate in the meeting via Microsoft Teams from the Sheraton Bloomington Hotel located at 1501 West 78th Street in Edina, MN due to work obligation requiring travel to Minnesota.
- 15 Action Items (Consent Agenda)
- 15 Councilor Nicole Jones moved to allow Councilor Lynch to participate in the meeting by electronic communication means. The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes None. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 16 Action Items (Regular Agenda and Motions)
- 16 Councilor Lynch did not join the meeting.
- 17 Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings
- 18 April 27, 2026 Informal Meeting Minutes
- 19 April 27, 2026 Formal Meeting Minutes
- 19 Councilor Andrew Breton moved to refer the initial appointment recommendation for the Participatory Budgeting Steering Commission back to its assigned standing committee for reconsideration, which was seconded and approved: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 20 Introduction of Ordinances and Resolutions
- 20 Councilor Nicole Jones moved that the following appointments and reappointments be approved:
- 21 May 11, 2026 Introduction Papers List
- 21 Aging and Disabilities Advisory Board: Brienne Frankart
- 22 Reports or Announcements by Members of the Council
- 22 Richmond Behavioral Health Authority: Anika Richburg (reappointment) Rosario Miller Katie Smithwick
- 23 Adjournment
- 23 Richmond Public Library Board: Brent Graves (reappointment)
- 24 PAGE BREAK
- 24 Social Services Advisory Board: Sharon Walton Darby
- 25 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.
- 25 Board of Directors of the Economic Development Authority: Jeron Crooks (reappointment) Nathan Hughes (reappointment) Cynthia Cobbs
- 26 Time and Place of Meetings
- 26 Participatory Budgeting Steering Commission: Samuel Davies (reappointment)
- 27 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.
- 27 Commission of Architectural Review: Daniel Payne
- 28 Public Comment Period
- 28 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 29 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.
- 30 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.
- 30 There were no awards or presentations.
- 31 Council President Cynthia Newbille called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. and presided.
- 32 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.
- 33 Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
- 34 Melvin Jones expressed concerns about fiscal responsibility, citing issues such as bonuses, water bill increases, and the need for greater transparency in city spending.
- 34 Chris Suarez spoke about rising pedestrian fatalities in the city and urged Council to strengthen Vision Zero efforts and improve street safety infrastructure.
- 35 Maria Düster, Community Climate Collaborative, spoke in support of RES. 2026-R003, stating its importance for reducing high utility burdens and improving living conditions for low income residents.
- 36 PAGE BREAK
- 36 Vice President Katherine Jordan moved to amend the agenda as follows:
- 37 The Consent Agenda
- 38 The following ordinances and resolution were considered:
- 1. To authorize the special use of the property known as 101 Cowardin Avenue for the purpose of a multifamily dwelling containing up to 120 dwelling units, upon certain terms and conditions, and to repeal Ord. No. 85-316-86-1, adopted Jan. 13, 1986, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (As Amended) (6th District)
- 2. 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)
- 3. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3119 Napoleon Street for the purpose a single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (6th District)
- 4. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 3401 Rosewood Avenue and 3405 Rosewood Avenue for the purpose of up to three single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District)
- 5. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3601 Hopkins Road for the purpose of a multifamily development containing up to 172 dwelling units within four residential buildings, upon certain terms and conditions. (8th District)
- 6. To commit to working with the City’s Administration to [development and implement] develop a [comprehensive] City-wide energy efficiency program that [reduces the] advances equitable reductions in energy burden [and cost of living for vulnerable households, supports small businesses, assists in the preservation of housing and the stabilization of neighborhoods, and makes meaningful], accelerates progress [towards the City’s climate goals] toward Richmond’s 2050 net-zero goals, and institutionalizes interdepartmental coordination across housing, utilities, and community development. (As Amended)
- 44 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 45 Budget Related Papers
- 7. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1705 Commonwealth Avenue for the purpose of a space for outdoor events, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (1st District)
- 8. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3219 Tuxedo Boulevard for the purpose of up to [five] four single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) (As Amended)
- 9. To amend City Code 2-728, concerning the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response, to require the routing of E-911 calls for emergency medical services to the Richmond Ambulance Authority by the Department of Emergency Communications, Preparedness, and Response.
- 10. To amend City Code §§2-1301.4, concerning the City’s rights and authority, and 2-1301.14, concerning labor-management dispute and impasse resolution, to modify collective bargaining procedures. (As Amended)
- 11. To establish the Code Refresh Review Commission for the purpose of developing optimal recommendations for a forthcoming rewrite of the City’s zoning ordinance, based upon best practices and expert and community input.
- 12. To establish the Resident Planning Review Commission for the purpose of advising the Council concerning the City’s implementation of the Master Plan.
- 13. 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.
- 52 Public Hearing
- 53 The following ordinances were considered:
- 14. To adopt the annual budget, which includes all of the separate current expense budgets for the general operation of the City government and for each utility as defined in ch. 13 of the City Charter and provides for increases to certain fees for the fiscal year commencing Jul.1, 2026, and ending Jun. 30, 2027, and to appropriate the estimated revenues for such fiscal year for the objects and purposes stated in such budget. (As Amended)
- 54 Carolyn Pugh, Community Climate Collaborative, spoke in support of RES. 2026-R003 and described the need for a long term city strategy to address unsafe housing conditions and unaffordable energy costs.
- 15. To accept a program of proposed Capital Improvement Projects for the fiscal year beginning Jul. 1, 2026, and for the four fiscal years thereafter; to adopt a Capital Budget for the fiscal year beginning Jul. 1, 2026; and to determine the means of financing the same. (As Amended)
- 55 Annika Schunn, Housing Opportunities Made Equal, spoke in support of RES. 2026-R003 noting the urgent need for utility cost relief.
- 16. To adopt a new pay plan for the City for Fiscal Year 2026-2027 and to repeal Ord. No. 2025-059, adopted May 12, 2025, and all amendatory ordinances thereto. (As Amended)
- 56 Lori Hunter spoke in support of RES. 2026-R003 and stated that vulnerable residents face disproportionately high energy costs and would benefit from structured citywide assistance.
- 17. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer to submit a PY 2026-2030 Consolidated Plan and PY 2026 Annual Action Plan to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as an application for the receipt of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, HOME Investment Partnership (HOME) funds, Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) funds and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) funds; to accept funds from the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in the total amount of $12,553,779.59; and to appropriate $12,553,779.59 for various projects. (As Amended)
- 57 There were no comments or discussions and the Consent Agenda was adopted: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 58 Public Hearing
- 18. To appropriate and to provide funds for financing the school budget for the fiscal year commencing Jul. 1, 2026, and ending Jun. 30, 2027.
- 19. To authorize the issuance of general obligation bonds and notes of the City of Richmond in the maximum principal amount of $135,014,135 to finance the cost of school projects and general capital improvement projects of the City for the following purposes and uses: construction, reconstruction, improvements and equipment for public schools; construction, reconstruction, improvement and equipment for various infrastructure needs, including transit facilities, traffic control facilities, streets, sidewalks and other public ways, bridges, storm sewers, drains and culverts, street lights, floodwall and levee system facilities and refuse disposal facilities; construction, reconstruction, improvement and equipment for public safety and other governmental purposes; to make grants or loans to assist in financing capital expenditures for the purposes of promoting the development of housing projects for the benefit of persons with low or moderate incomes; participation in redevelopment, conservation and community development programs, including the construction, reconstruction, improvement and equipment for targeted public facilities included in these programs; construction, reconstruction, improvements and equipment for public institutional, operational, cultural, educational and entertainment buildings and facilities, including but not limited to the theaters, parks, playgrounds, cemeteries, libraries and museums; acquisition of real property therefor as appropriate; and the making of appropriations to the City’s Economic Development Authority and the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority to be used to finance capital expenditures or to make loans or grants to finance capital expenditures or to make loans or grants to finance capital expenditures for the purposes of promoting economic development or promoting the development of housing projects for the benefit of persons with low or moderate incomes; to authorize the Director of Finance, with the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City, to sell such bonds for such capital improvement projects; to provide for the form, details and payment of such bonds; to authorize the issuance of notes of the City in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds; and to authorize the issuance of such bonds as either federally tax-exempt bonds or federally taxable bonds, or both.
- 20. To authorize the issuance of general obligation public improvement bonds of the City of Richmond in the maximum principal amount of $9,778,140 to finance the cost of capital improvement projects of the stormwater utility of the City for the following purposes and uses: replacement of and upgrades to the stormwater facilities, including but not limited to, construction, reconstruction, improvements, rehabilitation and upgrades of stormwater sewers and associated facilities; new and replacement infrastructure of the storm sewer system, drainage structures, catch basins, ditches, storm sewer pipes, culverts, green infrastructure; acquisition of real property therefor as appropriate; and equipment for various infrastructure needs; to authorize the Director of Finance, with the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City, to sell such bonds for such capital improvement projects; to provide for the form, details and payment of such bonds; to authorize the issuance of notes of the City in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds; and to authorize the issuance of such bonds as either federally tax-exempt bonds or federally taxable bonds, or both.
- 21. To authorize the issuance of public utility revenue bonds of the City of Richmond in the maximum principal amount of $314,003,404 to finance the cost of capital improvement projects of the gas, water and wastewater utilities and public utility buildings and facilities for the following purposes and uses: enlargement, extension, repair, replacement, improvement and equipping of the gas plant, gate stations, transmission, distribution and service lines and associated metering equipment; enlargement, extension, repair, replacement, improvement and equipping of the waterworks plant, pump stations, transmission, distribution and service lines and associated metering equipment; enlargement, extension, repair, replacement, improvement and equipping of the wastewater plant and intercepting lines; construction, reconstruction, repair, replacement, and improvement of sanitary and storm water sewers, pumping stations, drains and culverts; construction, reconstruction, repair, replacement, improvement and equipping of public utility buildings and facilities therefor, including but not limited to the stores division; and acquisition of real property and real property rights (including without limitation easements and rights-of-way) therefor as appropriate; to authorize the Director of Finance, with the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City, to sell such bonds for such capital improvement projects; to provide for the form, details and payment of such bonds; to approve the form of supplemental indenture of trust; to authorize the issuance of notes of the City in anticipation of the issuance of such bonds; and to authorize the issuance of such bonds as either federally tax-exempt bonds or federally taxable bonds, or both.
- 22. To authorize the issuance of general obligation equipment notes of the City of Richmond in the maximum aggregate principal amount of $11,000,000 to finance the costs of equipment and vehicles for the various departments, bureaus and agencies of the City and the Richmond Ambulance Authority; and to authorize the Director of Finance, with the approval of the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City, to issue and sell equipment notes to finance the acquisition of such equipment and vehicles; to provide for the form, details and payment of such notes; and to authorize the issuance of such notes as either federally tax-exempt notes or federally taxable notes, or both.
- 70 Cheryl Nici, retired Richmond Police officer, spoke in support of a yearly cost of living adjustment (COLA) for city retirees.
- 71 Michael Wyche spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 72 William Holland spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 73 Aurora Britt spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 74 Nicole spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 75 Almonte Canselo spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 76 Cameron C. spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 77 Jack Timmons spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 78 Mary Donahue spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 79 B. Chambers spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 80 Anneli Voelker spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 81 Sky Beau spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 82 Patrick Hanlon spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 83 Maya Dora, VCU student, spoke in support of increased funding for sidewalk improvements and pedestrian infrastructure.
- 84 Lori Hunter spoke in support of increased funding for sidewalk improvements, noting heavy pedestrian traffic areas in the city with no sidewalks at all.
- 85 Derek Starr Redwine, Richmonders Involved to Strengthen our Communities (RISC), expressed support and gratitude for the funds dedicated for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund (AHTF).
- 86 Janice Lacey, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 87 Steve Saltzburg, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 88 Marty Wegbreit, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 89 Brenda Hawkins, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 90 Dennis Holley, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 91 Ralph Hodge, RISC, expressed support for funding the AHTF.
- 92 Emily Grimes spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 93 Victoria spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 94 Yohance Whitaker spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 95 Eric Bento spoke in opposition to funding the city's contract with FLOCK security.
- 96 Reniya Kearsy spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 97 Jasmine Jackson Kearsy spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy (RVA).
- 98 Kia, 6th grader at Richmond Virtual Academy, spoke in support of continued funding for RVA.
- 99 Elijah Kearsy, 7th grader at Richmond Virtual Academy, spoke in support of continued funding for RVA.
- 100 Felicia Mines, Parent of RVA student, spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 101 Dee Winston, parent of RVA student, spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 102 Jacqueline Wilson spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 103 LaTasha Smiree spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 104 Tomorrow Lofton-Pickens, RVA Compliance Coordinator, spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 105 Mariah White, Richmond Crusaders Education Committee Chair, spoke in support of continued funding for Richmond Virtual Academy.
- 106 Councilor Kenya Gibson stated that while more transparency and clarity is still needed, the budget makes meaningful progress for the city despite limited resources.
- 107 Councilor Reva Trammell expressed concerns about school safety and frustration with uncertainty around how school funds would be used.
- 108 Councilor Nicole Jones stated that there are obvious processes that need to be done more collaboratively, and she hoped for more inclusive, transformative budgeting in the future, grounded in youth voices and community needs.
- 109 Vice President Jordan noted many improvements in school funding and the budget process. She also encouraged residents to advocate at the state and federal levels for funding and structural reforms.
- 110 Councilor Ellen Robertson stated that the budget reflects important steps forward, particularly in affordable housing. She also noted the importance of continuing public participation to help shape priorities in the future.
- 111 Councilor Andrew Breton thanked members of the public for their participation and stated that pedestrian safety and transparency were central to this year’s budget process.
- 112 President Cynthia Newbille acknowledged that not all needs could be fully addressed and encouraged ongoing engagement between Council, administration, and residents.
- 113 There were no further comments and ORD. 2026-063, ORD. 2026-064, ORD. 2026-065, ORD. 2026-066, ORD. 2026-067, ORD. 2026-068, ORD. 2026-069, ORD. 2026-070, and ORD. 2026-071 were adopted: Ayes 7, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 0. Abubaker had yet to arrive.
- 114 Councilor Sarah Abubaker arrived at 8:11 p.m. and was seated.
- 115 The Regular Agenda
- 116 The following ordinance was considered:
- 118 Kevin Vonck, Director of Planning and Development Review, provided an overview and background information on the proposed special use of 1705 Commonwealth Avenue.
- 119 Public Hearing
- 120 Sidney Bragg urged denial of the SUP due to excessive noise and the venue’s close proximity to homes.
- 121 Adam Young spoke in opposition to the proposed sup and stated that amplified outdoor music is incompatible with the residential setting
- 122 Victoria Young stated that prior events disturbed her children’s sleep and that the proposed event schedule is far too intensive for a quiet neighborhood.
- 123 Story Hinckley expressed concern over traffic and parking overflow affecting the safety of families and children.
- 124 Nicholas Pfab described historical noise issues and said enforcement is inadequate to manage frequent outdoor events
- 125 Amanda Murphy stated that community negotiations with the applicant failed because the applicant insisted on amplified music outdoors and large gatherings.
- 126 Rachel Pfab expressed concerns with the SUP applying to the property, not the applicant, and stated that future owners could hold even larger events.
- 127 Debbie Bragg stated that there were multiple failed attempts to compromise with the applicant and noted the importance of protection of the neighborhood’s quality of life.
- 128 Krista Mathis stated that the venue’s planned use conflicts with current zoning and undermines the intent of noise protection restrictions.
- 129 Ryan Oliver stated that the proposed use is not compatible with current zoning and that past events were louder and more disruptive than the applicant claims.
- 130 Nancy Oliver concerns about early morning event setup noise and protecting the family oriented nature of the block.
- 131 Vince Lovejoy stated that approval of the SUP would set a harmful precedent and weaken neighborhood protections citywide.
- 132 Lee Stanfield expressed concerns with the city’s ability to enforce decibel limits, stating that the enforcement burden would fall on residents.
- 133 Kristine Smetana stated that the business should continue operating indoors only, as outdoor events would permanently impact livability in the neighborhood.
- 134 Brandy Jarvis, Jackson Ward Collective Foundation and founder of Dog Adventures, LLC, spoke in support of the proposed SUP, stating that past concerns were addressed, the venue operates responsibly, and the business provides meaningful cultural and economic value to the community.
- 135 Nadia Anderson, applicant and owner of Lavender Hill, stated that she follows city guidance, including investment in sound mitigation, and explained that she needs the ability to host outdoor events to sustain her business.
- 136 Aaron Foster spoke in support of the proposed SUP, stating that Lavender Hill is a positive community space and that the applicant has made significant efforts to collaborate with neighbors and operate responsibly.
- 137 Jolinda Anderson stated that outdoor events are exaggerated by opponents and that the city’s process has been confusing and unfair to the applicant.
- 138 James Henry Harris stated that the applicant is a person of integrity who has repeatedly faced unfair barriers as a Black woman business owner, and denying the SUP would perpetuate historical patterns of discrimination.
- 139 Megan Rollins, The Knot Worldwide, spoke in support of Lavender Hill and noted the venue's economic value to the wedding industry.
- 140 Will Rollins provided information stating that very few events took place at Lavender Hill and no noise violations were ever received, arguing that objections to the SUP are not supported by evidence.
- 141 Michael Wray spoke about the importance of “ruthless fairness” and suggested the restrictions placed on Lavender Hill amounted to an unreasonable regulatory burden.
- 142 Christina Dick stated that opposition to the proposed SUP is driven by fear rather than facts, and praised the applicant’s community contributions.
- 143 Michael Raven stated that opposition materials circulating in the neighborhood used racially charged language and warned that denial of the SUP could open the city to civil rights litigation.
- 144 Demond Davis described the “Beats and Blockbusters” series of events at Lavender Hill as culturally enriching and specifically scheduled to minimize neighborhood disruption.
- 145 Tamara Green Jones stated that the business model of Lavender Hill depends on hosting outdoor events and that the city provided inconsistent instructions throughout the process.
- 146 Aubrey Fountain, VCU adjunct professor specializing in land use law, stated that the current zoning of the property allows event spaces with conditions and cautioned that NIMBY concerns alone cannot legally justify denial.
- 147 Dineen Harris stated that events she attended at Lavender Hill were quiet and professionally run, and asked for equal treatment compared to similar venues in the city.
- 148 Grace Carter stated that Lavender Hill has significantly reduced event frequency to meet neighbors halfway, and noted that it is a rare example of a Black‑owned outdoor venue in the city.
- 149 Councilor Nicole Jones asked for clarity on what version of the ordinance Council was actually considering, noting conflicting public statements about event limits and other stipulations.
- 150 Kevin Vonck, Director of Planning and Development Review, stated that no amendments had been submitted for Council’s consideration and that the only version before Council was the original ordinance recommending approval with conditions based on the staff analysis.
- 151 Councilor Andrew Breton stated that months of negotiations between the applicant and neighbors concluded that the parties remained too far apart on a solution, and that he could not support the SUP as written.
- 152 Councilor Ellen Robertson stated that Council may want to consider a reduced event compromise and expressed frustration that the applicant’s scaled down proposal was not able to be included in a formal amendment.
- 153 Councilor Reva Trammell emphasized the importance of protecting long established neighborhoods and stated she could not support amplified outdoor music events near homes.
- 154 President Cynthia Newbille acknowledged the extensive engagement from both sides and stated that there is a need for a clear process moving forward.
- 155 Councilor Robertson expressed interest in continuing ORD. 2025-215 to allow for the preparation of an amendment, based on the willingness indicated by the applicant to accept reducing the number of events per year.
- 156 Councilor Breton moved to call the question, which was seconded.
- 157 Councilor Robertson moved to continue ORD. 2025-215 to allow for preparation of an amendment, which was seconded.
- 158 President Newbille stated that the first motion would need to be addressed first.
- 159 City Attorney Laura Drewry stated that the motion to call the question must be voted on first, as it was made and seconded first.
- 160 The motion to call the question was approved: Ayes 5, Breton, Gibson, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan. Noes 2, Jones, Robertson. Abstentions 1, Newbille.
- 161 Discussion ensued regarding what was being voted on, and City Clerk Candice Reid confirmed that no amendments had been introduced and clarified that the next vote would be on whether or not to approve ORD. 2025-215 as read in its submitted form.
- 162 Councilor Robertson stated that she would not support the SUP as it appears on the docket and reiterated that she asked for an amendment to the ordinance, noting that her motion for the ordinance to be continued had not been considered.
- 163 Ms. Reid stated that she would defer to the City Attorney on whether or not the question needed to be called on Ms. Robertson's motion to continue the ordinance.
- 164 Ms. Drewry stated that since the motion to call the question was approved, then the vote on the ordinance itself would be in the correct order.
- 165 President Newbille stated that if the ordinance is approved, then there would not be anything to continue.
- 166 Council Chief of Staff RJ Warren clarified the order of events as follows:
- 167 • The first motion to call the question was made and received a second. • There was a second motion made to continue the ordinance that also received a second. • The first motion must be addressed, which is to call the question. • That motion was approved. Therefore, the only subsequent action is that the question must be called.
- 168 Mr. Warren continued, stating that if the question is called and the ordinance is denied, it cannot be continued. He likewise noted that an ordinance that has been approved cannot be continued. Therefore, whatever the result of the question before the Council, the motion to continue would be moot.
- 169 ORD. 2025-215 was rejected: Ayes 1, Jones. Noes 6, Breton, Gibson, Robertson, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan. Abstentions 1, Newbille.
- 171 There were no amendments or corrections to the following meeting minutes, which were approved as presented.
- 176 City Council will hold a public hearing on the following ordinances and resolution on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.:
- 23. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute an Agreement between the Virginia Department of Health and the City of Richmond for the purpose of funding public health services provided by the Richmond City Health Department.
- 24. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $2,002,659.00 from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Capital Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Department of Public Utilities’ Stormwater Facilities Improvements project in the Utilities category by $2,002,659.00 for the purpose of funding the Broad Rock Creek Stream Restoration project.
- 25. 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)
- 26. To approve the Work Plan and Budget for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2027, for the provision of services in the Downtown Special Service and Assessment Districts.
- 27. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute an Eighth Amendment to the Agreement for the Provision of Services in the Downtown Richmond Special Service and Assessment Districts between the City of Richmond and Venture Richmond, Inc., for the purpose of extending the term of the agreement to June 30, 2031.
- 28. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause the Department of Housing and Community Development, in coordination with other relevant City departments, to conduct a feasibility and potential methods study by which the City may purchase real property within the city of Richmond for the development of affordable housing and to provide the Council with written recommendations for implementing the findings of the study. (As Amended)
- 183 City Council will hold a public hearing on the following ordinances on Monday, June 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.:
- 29. To amend ch. 2, art. V of the City Code by adding therein a new div. 23, consisting of §§ 2-1202.15-2-1202.18, for the purpose of establishing the Sister Cities Commission, and to repeal Res. No. 91-R180-207, adopted Jul. 22, 1991, and all amendatory resolutions thereto.
- 30. To authorize the special use of the property known as 607 Arnold Avenue for the purpose of up to two single-family detached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (6th District)
- 31. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2720 Clearfield Street for the purpose of no more than one single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (9th District)
- 32. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1710 Mactavish Avenue for the purpose of a motor vehicle sales, rental, and service facility, upon certain terms and conditions. (2nd District)
- 33. 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)
- 190 Members of Council provided reports and announcements regarding respective district meetings and activities.
- 192 There being no further business before the Council, the meeting adjourned at 10:33 p.m.
- 193 ___________________________________ CITY CLERK