Richmond City Council Budget Work Session on Planning and Economic Development

On March 18, 2026, the Richmond City Council held its first budget work session focusing on the planning and economic development portfolio. The meeting was presided over by Council President Newbill and included presentations from City Administration, led by Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Donald and Deputy CAO Ebert. The session followed a structured protocol: a 20-minute presentation, followed by two rounds of five-minute questions per council member, with a clock pause for responses. The goal was to review the proposed FY27 budget for five departments: Housing and Community Development, Economic Development, Planning and Development Review, Office of Sustainability, and Office of Community Wealth Building.

Discussion Items

• Budget Overview & Protocol: Council Chief of Staff RJ Warren outlined the standard operating procedures, including the timeline for budget work sessions, the amendment process (deadline April 7, 2026), and the order of questions. The presentation was time-limited to 20 minutes, and each council member was allotted two rounds of five-minute questions.
• Department of Planning and Development Review (PDR): Director Kevin J. Bonk discussed the department's budget, which decreased overall but is partially funded by building permit fees. Key topics included the zoning code refresh (to be completed in 2026), implementation of a new permitting software (Triple Unity), and concerns about staffing for property maintenance and code enforcement. Councilmember Breton and Vice President Jordan raised questions about the impact of the cannabis dispensary bill (expected to be signed by the governor) and whether the department has enough staff for enforcement. Director Bonk noted that proactive measures could be included in the third draft of the zoning code refresh.
• Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD): Director Merrick Malone highlighted accomplishments: 48 households housed via federal programs, 379 individuals supported in emergency shelters, completion of 800 affordable housing units, and a request for a dedicated attorney to expedite affordable housing permits. The mayor allocated $450,000 for implementing the Jackson Ward Community Plan, focusing on Gilpin Court residents. Councilmember Gibson sought details on the $450,000 and performance measures for affordable housing, referencing the Equitable Affordable Housing Plan (adopted in 2022). Deputy CAO Ebert noted that homeownership targets are behind due to rising home prices post-pandemic. A publicly accessible affordable housing GIS map is under development.
• Department of Economic Development: Director Angie Rogers reported on the department's work: services to over 200 businesses, a pilot “Buy Local” program supporting 453 businesses, approval of two tourism development financing projects (618 new hotel rooms, $150 million combined investment), and creation/retention of 347 jobs. The mayor added $250,000 for the facade improvement grant. Councilmember Robertson asked about revenue projections for the portfolio and specific growth nodes (Southside, medical/biotech). Councilmember Trammell inquired about the recently purchased Altria site (96 acres), with plans for park space and development of ~50 acres. Discussion included grocery store attraction strategies, the need for capital infrastructure funds, and the return on investment for the Diamond District stadium (projected $418 million in additional revenue over 30 years).
• Office of Sustainable Development: Director Laura Thomas presented on the 5-cent disposable bag tax, distribution of free reusable bags at community centers, and a forthcoming public dashboard tracking revenue and expenditures. Achievements included planting 1,174 trees (primarily in Southside) and partnering with the Office of Community Wealth Building to help eight residents earn solar energy credentials. The office has 8 FTEs funded by the general fund, plus additional positions funded by the USDA Cool the City grant.
• Office of Community Wealth Building (OCWB): Director Capricia Spielman reported that the office connected with over 1,000 residents, providing food, health, and mobility resources, and helping residents obtain jobs starting around $20/hour. The Richmond Resilience Initiative (RRI) is not funded for a new cohort in FY27; the current cohort runs through 2027. The office is now aligned with the planning and economic development portfolio to support a joint economic mobility initiative (GEMS).
• Equity and Needs Assessment: Councilmember Jones questioned how community input shaped the budget, noting that town halls drew about 1,000 participants. CAO Donald stated that a full report on public feedback will be released soon, and an equity impact assessment is being planned but not yet implemented. Councilmember Robertson and Jones emphasized the need for a clear plan for Southside growth, including a potential municipal grocery store.

Key Outcomes

• No formal votes were taken during the work session; the session was informational and for discussion.
• Amendments to the FY27 budget must be submitted by April 7, 2026, with a public hearing on April 13 and final deliberations on April 15.
• Follow-up questions from council members will be addressed in writing by council staff. Several members requested detailed projections, timelines, and performance measures for major projects (Diamond District, Coliseum site, Altria site, Southside corridors).
• Direction to staff: Council staff will compile unanswered questions and provide responses. The next budget work session is scheduled for Monday, March 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM, focusing on finance and administration.