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City Council

June 2, 2025 ·6:00 PM Final

Council Chamber, 2nd Floor - City Hall

Agenda PDF 📹 Watch video Official record ↗

Agenda — 142 items

  1. 1 Interested persons that wish to provide comments by teleconference/videoconference via Microsoft Teams, must register prior to 10:00 a.m., on the day of the meeting, by calling the Office of the City Clerk at (804) 646-7955 and selecting option 3.
  2. 2 Spanish interpretation service (SIS) is now offered in-person and virtually during Richmond City Council Formal meetings. Please visit the SIS station in the Council Chamber for assistance or select the language interpretation option when joining the Microsoft Teams meeting.
  3. 2 The Honorable Cynthia Newbille, President The Honorable Katherine Jordan, Vice President The Honorable Sarah Abubaker The Honorable Andrew Breton The Honorable Kenya Gibson The Honorable Stephanie Lynch The Honorable Ellen Robertson The Honorable Reva Trammell The Honorable Nicole Jones
  4. 3 Spanish Interpretation Announcement
  5. 3 Call to Order
  6. 4 Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
  7. 4 Council President Cynthia Newbille called the meeting to order at 6:17 p.m. and presided.
  8. 5 Reverend Joshua D. Holmes of Hood Temple African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Zion Church, 16 W Clay St., Richmond, Virginia, provided the invocation. Members of Council and the audience recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
  9. 6 Chamber Emergency Evacuation Plan Announcement and Public Speaker Guidelines
  10. 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. City Clerk Reid also stated that Spanish interpretation service was available virtually through Microsoft Teams. Roxana Talavera-Denson, Language Access Coordinator, Office of Immigrant and Refugee Engagement, then provided Spanish interpretation of City Clerk Reid's announcement.
  11. 7 Upon the President's request, Assistant City Clerk Kimberly Morris provided information on the appropriate way to evacuate the Council Chamber in an emergency along with public speaker guidelines.
  12. 8 Councilmembers Present
  13. 9 Action on Appointments and Reappointments
  14. 10 Board Appointments and Reappointments - June 2, 2025 CD.2025.178
  15. 11 Awards and Presentations
  16. 12 Public Comment
  17. 13 June 2, 2025 Public Comment Period Speakers List CD.2025.180
  18. 13 Councilor Nicole Jones moved that the following appointments and reappointments be approved:
  19. 14 Agenda Review and Amendments
  20. 14 Advisory Board of Recreation and Parks: Anne Brooks Rich (reappointment) Thomas Briggs, Jr. Aging and Disabilities Advisory Board: Jodi Winship Charles Barker Capital Area Partnership Uplifting People, Inc.: Sam Paker (reappointment) Community Policy and Management Team: Charlotte Talley J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College Board: Brenda Drew (reappointment) Joseph Chaudhari Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens, Inc.: Alan Davis (reappointment) Madeline Mayhood Richmond Behavioral Health Authority: Kristi Babenko (reappointment) Dennis Cohen, Jr. (reappointment) Scott Cannady (reappointment) Noreen O’Brien Social Services Advisory Board: Caleb Fulford
  21. 15 The following agenda amendments were considered:
  22. 15 The motion was seconded and unanimously approved.
  23. 16 Public Hearing
  24. 17 Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings
  25. 17 There were no awards and presentations.
  26. 18 May 12, 2025 Informal Meeting Minutes CD.2025.170
  27. 19 May 12, 2025 Formal Meeting Minutes CD.2025.179
  28. 20 Introduction of Ordinances and Resolutions
  29. 20 Melvin Jones addressed Council regarding the birthday celebration of Maggie L. Walker and asked that each Councilmember sign a birthday card to hallmark the occasion. Carol Adams, Engine Company No. 9 and Associates, Inc., addressed Council and stated the importance of continuing to tell the story of the city’s first black firefighters so that their legacy will never be forgotten. Willam Fuller, James Chambers, Cecil Dumas, Willam Harper and Donald Houston, veterans of the Richmond Fire Department, introduced themselves and thanked Council for its support. Andre Tolleris addressed Council and stated that clean, safe drinking water is a basic public health standard and expressed concerns about decades of infrastructure neglect. Mr. Tolleris also stated that the Department of Public Utilities has become synonymous with dysfunction and requested that Council fix recurring water issues immediately. Danielle Smith addressed Council and expressed support for implementing a proactive rental inspection program. Ms. Smith shared personal experience with toxic black mold in military housing as a child and stated her professional background in housing policy. Ms. Smith requested that Council keep the anticipated rental inspection ordinance in mind as it has potential to make housing safer for tenant families. William Ryan, Richmond Democratic Socialists of America member, addressed Council and advocated for the rental inspection ordinance on grounds that it would enable tenants to assert their rights to safe, healthy, and dignified housing without fear of reprisal from landlords. Mr. Ryan also stated that an enforcement regime could generate revenue for the city.
  30. 21 June 2, 2025 Introduction Papers List CD.2025.192
  31. 22 Reports or Announcements by Members of the Council
  32. 23 Adjournment
  33. 24 PAGE BREAK
  34. 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.
  35. 26 Time and Place of Meetings
  36. 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.
  37. 28 Public Comment Period
  38. 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.
  39. 29 Page Break
  40. 30 Guidelines for Public Participation*
  41. 30 Councilor Stephanie Lynch made a motion to further amend the agenda to consider the following resolution on the Regular Agenda:
  42. 31 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.
  43. 32 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.
  44. 32 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 1, Jones. Councilor Andrew Breton made a motion to approve the previously stated agenda amendments, which seconded and unanimously approved.
  45. 33 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.
  46. 34 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.
  47. 34 The following ordinances and resolutions were considered:
  48. 35 * 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.
  49. 36 PAGE BREAK
  50. 37 The Consent Agenda
  51. 38 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.
  52. 1. To authorize the special use of the property known as 3618 Hawthorne Avenue for the purpose of a four-unit multifamily dwelling and six single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (3rd District) ORD. 2025-014 continued and referred back
  53. 2. 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, Refuge Apartments, LP, and the Economic Development Authority of the City of Richmond for the purpose of facilitating the construction of an affordable housing development located at 5015 Snead Road, 5009 Rear Snead Road, and 5015 Rear Snead Road, or a site resulting from any such consolidation of the aforementioned parcels. (9th District) ORD. 2025-032 continued
  54. 3. To amend Ord. No. 2008-270-261, adopted Nov. 10, 2008, which amended Ord. No. 2003-296-255, adopted Sep. 8, 2003, which authorized a Community Unit Plan at 1300 Westwood Avenue for a mixed-use development consisting of a maximum of one hundred forty residential units, a community center with reception facility and non-medical office, a preventative healthcare facility, two private schools, and a fifty unit dormitory, and modified the plan for the fence required between the subject property and 1409 Palmyra Avenue, to modify the Community Unit Plan to allow for the development of tennis courts. (As Amended) (3rd District) ORD. 2025-046 continued
  55. 4. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1843 West Grace Street for the purpose of one dwelling unit within an accessory building to a [single-family] two-family attached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (2nd District) ORD. 2025-078 amended and continued
  56. 5. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1707 Tyler Street for the purpose of one two-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (3rd District) ORD. 2025-084 amended and continued
  57. 6. To declare a public necessity for and to authorize the acquisition of the parcels of real property owned by West Commerce Properties LLC located at 2210 Concord Avenue and 2202 Concord Avenue in the city of Richmond for the purpose of facilitating the development of affordable housing. (8th District) ORD. 2025-086 adopted Pass
  58. 7. To (i) declare surplus and direct the conveyance of the City-owned real estate known as 2100 Rear Bellemeade Road, consisting of 1.245± acres, and a portion of the City-owned real estate known as 2101 Commerce Road, consisting of 0.490± acres, for nominal consideration to 2107 West Commerce LLC and (ii) retain certain storm water drainage easements for the purpose of facilitating the development of affordable housing. (8th District) ORD. 2025-087 adopted Pass
  59. 8. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2000 North 29th Street for the purpose of a private school, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-090 adopted Pass
  60. 9. To authorize the special use of the property known as 814 North 32nd Street for the purpose of up to three single-family attached dwellings, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-091 adopted Pass
  61. 10. To authorize the special use of the property known as 2003 West Grace Street for the purpose of a single-family detached dwelling and an accessory dwelling unit, upon certain terms and conditions. (2nd District) ORD. 2025-093 adopted Pass
  62. 11. To authorize the special use of the property known as 14 South Lombardy Street for the purpose of a multifamily dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District) ORD. 2025-095 adopted Pass
  63. 12. To authorize the special use of the properties known as 2916 Semmes Avenue and 2918 Semmes Avenue for the purpose of one single-family detached dwelling and one two-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District) ORD. 2025-096 adopted Pass
  64. 13. To amend Ord. No. 2024-099, adopted May 13, 2024, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by increasing anticipated revenues from certain funds granted to the City of Richmond from The Regents of the University of California in the amount of $25,000.00 and appropriating such increased estimated revenues to the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office for the purpose of the Partnering with Prosecutors to Reduce Racial Disproportionalities project. ORD. 2025-097 adopted Pass
  65. 14. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $160,000.00 from the Virginia Department of Forestry and to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities called the “Tree Maintenance Team for East End and Evergreen Cemeteries,” and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Special Fund Budget by increasing the estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities’ “Tree Maintenance Team for East End and Evergreen Cemeteries Special Fund” by $160,000.00 for the purpose of funding a tree maintenance team and ongoing care for East End and Evergreen Cemeteries. ORD. 2025-098 adopted Pass
  66. 15. To amend Ord. No. 2024-099, adopted May 13, 2024, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by changing the uses and allocation of the Council District Funds for the Sixth District pursuant to Va. Code § 15.2-2503 for the use of the Council Member in the representation of the Sixth District. ORD. 2025-101 adopted Pass
  67. 16. To amend Ord. No. 2024-099, adopted May 13, 2024, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by changing the uses and allocation of the Council District Funds for the Ninth District pursuant to Va. Code § 15.2-2503 for the use of the Council Member in the representation of the Ninth District. ORD. 2025-102 adopted Pass
  68. 17. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $3,000.00 from the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority and to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget by creating a new line item in the Non-Departmental agency to be called the “Hanover County OAA Project Recover Grant” line item, and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to such new line item by $3,000.00, all for the purpose of making a grant of matching funds to Hanover County to support the Project Recover initiative funded by the Virginia Opioid Abatement Authority. ORD. 2025-103 adopted Pass
  69. 18. To repeal City Code §§ 14-57, concerning the establishment of floodplain districts, 14-58, concerning district boundaries and the official floodplain map, and 14-121, concerning modification to requirements of the building code and to amend §§ 14-19, 14-21-14-23, 14-25, 14-55, 14-56, 14-59-14-62, 14-83-14-88, 14-120, 14-122, and 14-123, concerning floodplain management, for the purpose of aligning the City Code with the Letter of Final Determination from the Federal Emergency Management Agency dated Jan. 8, 2025, regarding the City’s revised flood insurance rate map. ORD. 2025-104 adopted Pass
  70. 19. To designate the 300 block of North 32nd Street in honor of Reverend Dr. Edward Daniel McCreary, Jr. ORD. 2025-105 adopted Pass
  71. 57 Public Hearing
  72. 20. To designate the 2100 block of Edwards Avenue in honor of Harold Thomas. ORD. 2025-106 adopted Pass
  73. 58 Latrice Gregory, city contractor custodian, addressed Council in opposition of Res. No. 2025-R019, and stated her gratitude for Council's recognition of the importance of raising wages for workers. Ms. Gregory stated that despite working hard, her paycheck doesn't cover basic needs. Ms. Gregory expressed disappointment that instead of moving forward with wage increases in this year’s budget, Council decided to turn it into a study. Ms. Gregory requested that Council pass a living wage ordinance for city contractor workers this summer.
  74. 21. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $75,000.00 from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, and to designate funds in the total amount of $25,000.00 in the City Sheriff General Fund Budget as the required local match; to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Special Fund Budget by creating a new special fund for the City Sheriff called the “DCJS JAG - Vehicle Cameras Special Fund;” and to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Special Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the City Sheriff’s “DCJS JAG - Vehicle Cameras Special Fund” by the total amount of $100,000.00, all for the purpose of equipping the City Sheriff’s fleet vehicles with camera equipment. ORD. 2025-107 adopted Pass
  75. 59 There was no discussion, and the Consent Agenda was unanimously adopted.
  76. 22. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $1,500,000.00 from the Virginia Resources Authority and to amend the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Wastewater Utility Budget which appropriated the estimated receipts of the wastewater utility, by increasing estimated receipts and the amount appropriated for the wastewater utility by $1,500,000.00, for the purpose of funding the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant Thickening and Dewatering Facilities Improvements project. ORD. 2025-108 adopted Pass
  77. 23. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Financing Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Virginia Resources Authority for the purpose of funding the City’s Wastewater Treatment Plant Thickening and Dewatering Facilities Improvements project. ORD. 2025-109 adopted Pass
  78. 61 The following resolution was considered:
  79. 24. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Richmond Ambulance Authority Grant Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Richmond Ambulance Authority for the purpose of funding a Peer Recovery Specialist project to combat the opioid crisis in the City of Richmond. ORD. 2025-110 adopted Pass
  80. 62 To express support for the study and installation of photo speed monitoring devices in high-risk intersection segments[, including the 600 and 700 blocks of South Belvidere Street and certain other locations,] pursuant to Va. Code § 46.2-882.1 and [through the City of Richmond’s Department of Police “Safety Camera Program” and] to request that the Chief Administrative Officer consider identifying additional locations for the installation of photo speed monitoring devices and increasing the number of photo speed monitoring devices deployed by the City. (As Amended) (5th District) RES. 2024-R041
  81. 25. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Health Brigade Grant Contract between the City of Richmond and Health Brigade for the purpose of funding the creation and implementation of a substance use disorder treatment program to combat the opioid crisis in the City of Richmond. ORD. 2025-111 adopted Pass
  82. 63 Councilor Stephanie Lynch stated that Council's support of the proposed resolution is a signal and endorsement of a policy that will require political will and motivation to keep it as a priority. Councilor Lynch noted that legislation passed in the 2024 General Assembly allows placement of photo speed cameras within 1,000 feet of school zones where traffic fatalities have occurred.
  83. 26. To express support for the study and installation of photo speed monitoring devices in high-risk intersection segments[, including the 600 and 700 blocks of South Belvidere Street and certain other locations,] pursuant to Va. Code § 46.2-882.1 and [through the City of Richmond’s Department of Police “Safety Camera Program” and] to request that the Chief Administrative Officer consider identifying additional locations for the installation of photo speed monitoring devices and increasing the number of photo speed monitoring devices deployed by the City. (As Amended) (5th District) RES. 2024-R041 continued
  84. 64 Page Break
  85. 27. To support the application for an allocation of $10,000,000 through the Virginia Department of Transportation Revenue Sharing Program to provide maintenance and construction assistance to certain transportation projects. RES. 2025-R018 adopted Pass
  86. 65 Public Hearing
  87. 28. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause to be conducted a study of the fiscal, operational, and other considerations associated with requiring janitorial and security contractors under contract to provide services to the City to pay the City’s minimum wage, currently $20.00 per hour, to their employees who are performing work under City contracts, and to provide the Council with any recommendations for implementing such a requirement by no later than Nov. 1, 2025. RES. 2025-R019 adopted Pass
  88. 66 Momin Khan addressed Council in support of the resolution and stated that without seeing a resolution such as the proposed, it is unclear what the city's intention is regarding intersection safety. Mr. Khan further stated that striking the resolution would lose confidence in Council's goal for Vision Zero.
  89. 67 The Regular Agenda
  90. 67 Councilor Nicole Jones stated that while Council is not in denial about traffic and pedestrian safety issues, the administration has already provided the requested study data. Councilor Jones expressed support for the work but emphasized the need for equity analysis to ensure cameras are not just placed without consideration of equity impacts across all districts. Councilor Ellen Robertson stated that the Land Use, Housing and Transportation Standing Committee wanted to ensure the study was inclusive and provided information about high priority areas rather than identifying just one specific location. Councilor Robertson noted that city staff have answered questions about cost, revenue generation, and administration, but suggested the full council needs to review the complete report. Councilor Reva Trammell shared recent examples of speeding incidents on Richmond Highway, including a truck that flipped over and a crash that caused extensive property damage to a hotel. Councilor Trammell emphasized the urgent need for tools to help police slow down traffic. Councilor Jones asked about the effectiveness of current cameras and whether they are reducing traffic or helping with enforcement.
  91. 29. To amend ch. 26 of the City Code by adding therein a new art. XIX, consisting of §§ 26-1288-26-1292, for the purpose of establishing a disposable plastic bag tax. ORD. 2025-099 adopted Pass
  92. 68 There was no additional discussion, and Councilor Robertson made a motion to continue Res. No. 2024-R041 to the June 9, 2025, Council meeting, pending amendments to address the concerns raised by members and remove specific location prioritization. The motion was seconded and unanimously approved. The following ordinance was considered:
  93. 30. To amend City Code § 12-12, concerning the form of the budget submitted to Council, to require publication of a side-by-side comparison with the mayor’s proposed budget submission with agency-level budget request documents and to amend ch. 12, art. I of the City Code by adding therein a new section 12-25, concerning publication of agency-level budget requests, for the purpose of requiring submission of agency-level budget request documents. ORD. 2025-100 continued and referred back
  94. 70 Laura Thomas, Director of the Office of Sustainability, addressed Council and stated that the ordinance would implement a plastic bag fee across the city for grocers, drug stores, and convenience stores when distributing plastic bags, imposing a five-cent fee per bag. Director Thomas stated that revenues would be four cents per bag to the city and one cent per bag to the retailer. Ms. Thomas further stated this is an effort to reduce chronic litter, reduce impact on stormwater and water infrastructure, reduce capital maintenance costs, and improve environmental quality. She also stated that if approved, this would become effective January 1, 2026, giving a six-month window for outreach and education.
  95. 71 Public Hearing
  96. 72 Steve Marzolf, Clean City Commission chair, addressed Council and stated that the Clean City Commission fully supports this ordinance. Ashley Coles, Clean City Commission 6th District member, addressed Council via Microsoft Teams and expressed support for the ordinance. Councilor Ellen Robertson asked whether this would be regional or just in Richmond, how much revenue is expected to be generated, and whether there are other options where the cost is not passed on to consumers, but retailers would be charged with using alternatives to plastic bags. Ms. Thomas responded that this is specifically for Richmond, though the city would like regional collaboration. Director Thomas stated that Richmond would become the 11th municipality in the state to implement the tax. Ms. Thomas further stated that in year one, revenue is anticipated to be approximately $400,000, but in subsequent years there would be a reduction in plastic bag usage with anticipated revenue of $100,000 to $150,000. She also stated that retailers can choose to pass the fee on or absorb it themselves. Councilor Robertson requested a list of businesses subject to collecting the proposed tax. Councilor Reva Trammell stated opposition to the ordinance due to concerns from seniors about the cost impact, especially for those on fixed incomes. Ms. Trammell stated that seniors are concerned about additional fees and referenced previous fee increases that have grown over time. Vice President Katherine Jordan asked about delivery services and outreach to seniors for reusable bags. Ms. Thomas stated that food retailers are not included in this ordinance, so food delivery would not be affected. She also stated commitment to working with Council to identify groups for reusable bag distribution.
  97. 73 Councilor Nicole Jones expressed some support for the paper due to issues with single-use plastics clogging drains and causing infrastructure problems, while acknowledging the need to provide alternatives for residents. Councilor Kenya Gibson stated that the city is committed to using operational dollars from the Office of Sustainability for reusable bags for SNAP and WIC recipients and using additional operational funds for broader distribution to seniors and others. Councilor Andrew Breton expressed support, noting that flat taxes can have regressive impacts but that taxing something the city wants less of is appropriate. Mr. Breton stated that pollution and litter also have inequitable impacts. Councilor Stephanie Lynch stated that she had evolved from opposition to support after participating in neighborhood cleanups and seeing plastic bag litter throughout the environment. Councilor Ellen Robertson expressed concerns about the regressive nature of the tax and its impact on low-income communities, particularly those without access to quality grocery stores. Ms. Robertson stated opposition due to the inequitable burden on lowest income families.
  98. 74 There was no additional discussion, and Ord. No. 2025-099 was adopted: Ayes 6, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes 2, Robertson, Trammell. Abstentions 1, Jones.
  99. 75 Motions
  100. 76 Vice President Katherine Jordan moved that the ordinance entitled:
  101. 77 To authorize the special use of the property known as 1843 West Grace Street for the purpose of one dwelling unit within an accessory building to a [single-family] two-family attached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (2nd District) ORD. 2025-078
  102. 78 be amended and continued to June 23, 2025, to change the dwelling type from single-family attached to two-family attached. The motion was seconded and unanimously approved. Councilor Kenya Gibson moved that the ordinance entitled:
  103. 79 To authorize the special use of the property known as 1707 Tyler Street for the purpose of one two-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (As Amended) (3rd District) ORD. 2025-084
  104. 80 be amended and continued to June 23, 2025, to modify the survey. The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes None. Lynch was away. Councilor Ellen Robertson moved to expedite consideration of the following resolution:
  105. 31. To appoint Kimberly Kyle to the position of Council Liaison. RES. 2025-R021 adopted Pass
  106. 82 The motion was seconded and approved: Ayes 8, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes None. Lynch was away.
  107. 83 Councilor Ellen Robertson stated that Ms. Kyle comes with several years of experience working with the city, and that Ms. Kyle has provided excellent service and has extensive knowledge of the city.
  108. 84 Public Hearing
  109. 85 There were no public hearing speakers.
  110. 86 There was no discussion and Res. No. 2025-R021 was unanimously adopted: Ayes 9, Breton, Gibson, Jones, Robertson, Lynch, Trammell, Abubaker, Jordan, Newbille. Noes None. Vice President Jordan moved to expedite consideration of the following resolution:
  111. 32. To appoint Foster Curtiss as the Interim Inspector General. RES. 2025-R022 adopted Pass
  112. 88 The motion was seconded and unanimously approved.
  113. 89 President Cynthia Newbille introduced the proposed resolution.
  114. 90 Page Break
  115. 91 Public Hearing
  116. 92 There were no public hearing speakers. Councilor Reva Trammell and President Newbille discussed Ms. Trammell’s concerns and questions regarding the process to remove the previous inspector general and appoint an interim inspector general.
  117. 93 There was no additional discussion, and the resolution was unanimously adopted.
  118. 95 There were no amendments or corrections to the meeting minutes of the Informal and Formal Council meetings held on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 4:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m., and Council approved the minutes as presented.
  119. 100 City Council will hold a public hearing on the following ordinances and resolutions on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.:
  120. 33. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to accept funds in the amount of $11,573.50 from the Library of Virginia, and to appropriate the increase to the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Special Fund Budget by increasing estimated revenues and the amount appropriated to the Circuit Court Special Fund by $11,573.50 for the purpose of records preservation. ORD. 2025-122 introduced and referred
  121. 34. To amend Ord. No. 2024-099, adopted May 13, 2024, which adopted the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 General Fund Budget and made appropriations pursuant thereto, by changing the uses and allocation of the Council District Funds for the Fourth District pursuant to Va. Code § 15.2-2503 for the use of the Council Member in the representation of the Fourth District. ORD. 2025-123 introduced and referred
  122. 35. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a First Amendment to Opioid Funds Agreement between the City of Richmond and the City Sheriff for the purpose of continuing the Medication Assisted Treatment Pilot Program. ORD. 2025-124 introduced and referred
  123. 36. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a City of Richmond Grant Contract between the City of Richmond and the James River Association for the purpose of implementing green infrastructure practices to increase stormwater detention as part of the Greening Richmond Public Libraries project at the Ginter Park Branch. ORD. 2025-125 introduced and referred
  124. 37. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Programmatic Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, the State Historic Preservation Office for the purpose of ensuring compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act in the performance of programs funded by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. ORD. 2025-126 introduced and referred
  125. 38. To authorize the special use of the property known as 7 North 18th Street for the purpose of a one-story building and a parking garage, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-127 introduced and referred
  126. 39. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1824 North 28th Street for the purpose of one two-family detached dwelling and one dwelling unit within an accessory structure, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-128 introduced and referred
  127. 40. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1426 North 30th Street for the purpose of up to two two-family detached dwelling units and two accessory dwelling units, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-129 introduced and referred
  128. 41. To authorize the special use of the property known as 1404 North 32nd Street for the purpose of up to four single-family attached dwellings and one dwelling unit within an accessory structure, upon certain terms and conditions. (7th District) ORD. 2025-130 introduced and referred
  129. 42. To authorize the special use of the property known as 101 South Colonial Avenue for the purpose of outdoor dining accessory to a restaurant, upon certain terms and conditions. (5th District) ORD. 2025-131 introduced and referred
  130. 43. To authorize the special use of the property known as 5201 Sylvan Court for the purpose of a single-family detached dwelling, upon certain terms and conditions. (4th District) ORD. 2025-132 introduced and referred
  131. 44. To authorize the Chief Administrative Officer, for and on behalf of the City of Richmond, to execute a Financing Agreement between the City of Richmond and the Virginia Resources Authority for the purpose of funding the Almond Creek Interceptor Creek Crossing and Stream Stabilization project. ORD. 2025-133 introduced and referred
  132. 45. To amend City Code §§ 28-54, concerning deposits and refunds on gas and water utilities accounts, 28-57, concerning disconnection of gas, water and wastewater service for nonpayment of service charges and notice, and 28-58, gas service to residential customers billed under RS rate schedule, disconnection for nonpayment of gas, water and wastewater services for nonpayment and notice, all for the purpose of aligning the City Code with state law. ORD. 2025-134 introduced and referred
  133. 46. 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 facilitating the performance of public health services by the Richmond Henrico Health District. ORD. 2025-135 introduced and referred
  134. 47. To repeal City Code §§ 2-29, 2-31, 2-32, and 2-33, concerning the classifications of Council liaison, Council Policy Analyst, Council Budget Analyst, and the Council Public Relations Specialist, respectively, and to amend City Code § 2-30, concerning the Council Chief of Staff appointment and duties, for the purpose of providing for the appointment of employees in such classifications by the Council Chief of Staff. (As Amended) ORD. 2025-136 introduced and referred
  135. 48. To request that the Chief Administrative Officer cause to be established a work group to work in collaboration with Richmond Public Schools to develop a funding formula for allocating General Fund revenues annually for school operating expenses and a plan for implementation in the Fiscal Year 2027 General Fund Budget. (As Amended) RES. 2025-R023 introduced and referred
  136. 49. To support an application to the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program for the purpose of funding the installation of a five-foot wide sidewalk westbound along German School Road from Glenway Drive to Blakemore Road and to commit to the required agreements of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program. RES. 2025-R024 introduced and referred
  137. 50. To support an application to the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program for the purpose of funding the installation of five-foot wide sidewalk along Carnation Street from Hioaks Road to Warwick Road and to commit to the required agreements of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program. RES. 2025-R025 introduced and referred
  138. 51. To support an application to the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program for the purpose of funding the installation of pedestrian crossing improvements along Forest Hill Avenue from Westover Hills Boulevard to Taylor Avenue and 48th Street and to commit to the required agreements of the Virginia Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternatives Program. RES. 2025-R026 introduced and referred
  139. 120 Reports or Announcements by Members of the Council
  140. 121 Members of Council provided reports and announcements regarding respective district meetings and activities.
  141. 123 There being no further business before the Council, the meeting adjourned at 8.27 p.m.
  142. 124 ___________________________________ CITY CLERK