No
Do you support the North of Broad Coliseum Development project as it’s been described and documented to-date?
What will be your priorities and redlines when evaluating economic development projects such as this? How will you foster appropriate transparency and public participation in the vetting of economic development projects in the future as potential member of City Council?
No, we do not support the coliseum project in its current form. Our campaign has released a statement addressing our concerns about the Colosseum.
Our priorities on City Council are those of Richmond’s working class. Richmond gears need jobs, but those jobs must be good paying union jobs, not short term building projects that benefit private developers paid for by public tax dollars. We will evaluate all Economic Development projects based on how sustainable and beneficial those projects are to the average Richmond citizen. We will not use taxpayer dollars to fund a project that will benefit Tom Ferrell and other large corporate investors.
Unlike our current city council, we will not hamper Democratic efforts hold referendums on large-scale building projects. We will not be in tagging to stick to the Democratic process and we will hear the voices of working-class people instead of siding with corporate donors.
Will you expand greenspace to ensure every Richmonder is a 10-minute walk from a park, trail, or urban agriculture site?
[No Answer]
What investments do you feel are most needed to meet the goal of equitable access to greenspaces like parks and urban agriculture? Where would you most like to see the expansion of greenspace in Richmond to benefit residents?
We need to fund the planting of more trees and more expansive general foliage coverage in urban areas in Richmond. The benefits of expanding our tree planting program and the creation of new greenspaces in Richmond, with the proper funding of the tree planting budget, absolutely justify the cost of increasing the budget. We need to invest in connecting our city’s greenspaces more apparently and plan more deliberately for people rather than cars. The largest investments are needed in Southside which receives less attention and resources in many greenspaces. Additionally, we should work with city departments to make it easier for residents to create their own shared food growing spaces, especially in areas with low access to fresh food.
Will you take immediate steps to reduce the city’s carbon pollution?
Yes
What level and types of investment do you feel are necessary to meet the goal of an 80% reduction in the city’s carbon pollution by 2050? How should City Council ensure that our municipal energy sources, transportation networks, and infrastructure investments reduce our carbon footprint at the pace we need to?
City council should invest in providing residents with publicly owned means of sustainable living including but not limited to solar and wind energy production, recycling, and improved equitable transportation infrastructure. The key to reducing our carbon footprint is to remove capitalism from our energy production. The quest for profit gave us our climate problems and for-profit companies are not the solution. We must look to enable citizens to collectively own sustainable, self-sufficient energy and transportation systems.
Will you make significant investments to prepare our city for impacts of climate change?
Yes
Investments should include $21 million for stormwater management projects in 2020 and expanding Richmond’s tree canopy by 10% over the next five years. In addition, how will you work to ensure that the city’s zoning codes, capital projects, agency operating budgets, and other investments align to protect the James River from stormwater pollution, prepare neighborhoods to withstand extreme weather, and keep residents safe?
As a member of city council I will commit our budget to achieving our goals to reduce urban heat islands and improve the environmental quality of our city, including but not limited to improvements to our stormwater management systems and expansion of the tree canopy. I will work to bridge the gap where possible with the community and planners in the city to ensure the citizens of Richmond are supportive and feel they hold an equitable share in the improvement of our city’s environment. Securing the funding for these budgetary expenses is necessary to prepare our city for the long-term effects of climate change.
Do you plan to commit to accelerating the implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
It’s Complicated
What does the Council need to do to ensure the James River Park System and broader riverfront gets the funding and attention it needs? What level of funding would you find acceptable to support the James River Park System and implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
The James River system is one of our city’s greatest resources. Funding for river conservation and improvements to the riverfront should adequately meet the needs of the Riverfront Plan while also continuing to put public expenditures like equitable public transportation and schools before large scale city projects.
Do you plan to implement the Richmond 300 Master Plan?
It’s Complicated
Have you attended any of the meetings either as a member of the public or an Advisory Council/Workgroup member? Do you believe Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it? What three land use or housing policies would you like to see come out of the master planning process?
I have not attended a meeting for the Advisory Council of the Richmond 300 Master Plan. I believe Council should make changes to the Richmond 300 Master Plan based on community input. I plan to personally speak to as many residents as possible at their doors as a member of city council to discuss key components of the plan, changes to zoning, and budgetary expenditures. The most critical policies to come from a master plan would be constructing affordable housing, reaching our current demand for public housing, and building denser housing projects such as multifamily houses.
Do you support the increased density of Richmond’s housing stock?
Yes
Richmond was more dense in 1950 than it is today. Increased density cuts housing costs for residents, preserves the City’s limited greenspace, and saves the City money on providing essential services. What changes, either administratively or via ordinance, can the City make to facilitate dense residential development? How do we ensure a diversity of housing stock that is accessible to Richmonders at all income levels?
City Council must work to ensure housing is available to all in Richmond. To achieve this goal we will need to increase housing sustainability, reduce the cost of housing, and ensure transportation options make Richmond accessible to reduce the number of cars on our roads and the parking space required for automobiles. City Council must work with planners to increase zoning density where best suited and remove surface parking lots. Currently 25% of Monroe Ward consists of non-permeable surface parking lots. That area could be used more effectively if zoned as mixed-use. Additionally, our city should subsidize and work to decommodify housing to ensure all residents have adequate housing.
Do you support the creation and implementation of anti-displacement policies?
Yes
What kind of policy you would seek to help maintain Richmond’s economic and racial diversity? Are there existing programs that are underutilized, for example the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, that could be leveraged more effectively? Would you support a longtime owner occupant program similar to Philadelphia’s?
We believe relieving burdens on residents who have historically been oppressed and often are still oppressed by systemic and economic systems built on inequity. Removing tax burdens for those who cannot afford increasing tax rates and transitioning to progressive taxation system would be the optimal solution to address economic and racial inequalities in our city. We would support a longtime owner occupant program if also based on a progressive taxation model. We must work to combat gentrification and protect existing working-class residents.
Support diversity and inclusion training and trauma informed practices among all public safety personnel.
Yes
With the hiring of a new Police Chief and several staffing transitions, we believe it is critical for public safety personnel to develop authentic relationships with the communities they serve. Where does this rank on your list of public safety priorities? How will we ensure that we are holding our law enforcement more accountable and creating more transparency?
Police accountability has been one of the highest priorities for our campaign. Having been moved to run after the snub of the Justice and Reformation for Marcus-David Peters campaign by local elected officials, it is my priority to work with concerned residents and other council-members to develop answers to how we protect the community from unnecessary police violence and biased enforcement. Firstly we need to take a page from Charlottesville’s book and begin to implement a Civilian Review Board with full investigative power and the ability to propose and help pass legitimate changes in police training, funding, and administration. We also need to ensure that we’re protecting the individuals having mental health crises. The killing of Marcus-David Peters and Gay Plack prove that we need massive changes in the way our policing system treats people with with mental health issues. Finally, we need to be recording and using the data from policing as a basis for changing its practices. As the Richmond Transparency and Accountability Project recently made the case that we are not receiving full data about use-of-force incidents by the Richmond Police Department, but from what we can see, they are over-policing Black and working-class neighborhoods.
Support the funding priorities in the budget that will attract and retain bilingual government employees.
Yes
Richmond’s Latin-x population continues to increase with the US Census Bureau estimating a 12% increase over the last eight years. This trend is projected to steadily rise. How will you advocate for a workforce that is equipped to provide access to city services for the Latin-x population? How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every Latin-x student has access to quality education?
We believe Richmond Public Schools should continue to provide ESL services and expanded learning programs to immigrants of all backgrounds. We must invest more into our public school system to allow all students including our Latin-x population, to succeed and have an equitable level of education to other student populations.
Support data sharing and increased public access to the outcomes and performance measures for all agencies receiving non-departmental funding.
Yes
How should we hold non-departmental funding recipients accountable for quality services? What data sharing policies would you implement to increase public awareness of these services and resources? How would you ensure that recipients are making an impact in the City?
Our city must commit to better information sharing platforms for its citizenry. We should work to make information available to Citizens through online platforms available at all times in a way that all citizens can access. In the age of digital technology, there is no reason that citizens should not be able to access a complete range of statistics on City activities in an easily understandable, reliable, and remote fashion online.
Commit to $1 million per year of City funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
Yes
Establishing safe and accessible places for people to bike and walk will require capital funding for infrastructure. Where, specifically, would you invest in better pedestrian and bike infrastructure? What do you see as the major safety and mobility challenges facing pedestrians and people on bikes as they move around the 5th District?
To increase accessibility for bikes and other modes of transportation other than cars we must work to construct safer bike Lanes with protected access for bikes and connect the existing bike Lanes in our city. We are currently suffering from a disjointed bike system that does not provide adequate Transportation off options for bikers. Cars Remain the biggest threat all other modes of transportation in our city. You must work to provide modes of transportation other than cars and elevated position in our city converting streets from car only to complete streets or
non-automobile streets entirely.
Implement and support the legislative and budget components of the Vision Zero action plan.
Yes
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. In March 2016, Richmond City Council passed a Vision Zero Resolution (RES. 2016-R011) that “supports the development of a Vision Zero program for the City of Richmond with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries in road traffic to zero by the year 2030,” and in October 2017 Mayor Stoney signed a commitment to make Richmond a Vision Zero city. The City’s Vision Zero Action Plan includes legislative and budget actions that City Council could pass today. If elected to City Council, which of those would you prioritize and why?
To achieve Vision zero, we must commit to removing as many cars off of our streets as possible. Cars have always been the source of traffic fatalities since their introduction onto our streets. City council must work with planners to make as many streets and paths accessible too low risks modes of transportation such as pedestrians pedestrian traffic, bikes, and other last-mile modes of transportation. Traffic that is motorized should be kept at a safe distance from other modes of transportation to reduce the number of fatalities in traffic accidents. We must generally work to build a car-free city city that is reasonably navigable by residents and tourists alike without a car. In the twenty-first century we should not be relying on hold we have more intuitive ways to move people around our cities and Richmond must adapt that.
Establish and fund a dedicated Richmond Department of Transportation.
Yes
As Richmond continues to grow, so will the challenge of how to move more residents and visitors within the city limits by walking, biking, transit, car-share, driving, and future transportation options. How can the City overcome its current disconnected planning process and begin to centrally plan, coordinate, and build multimodal transportation projects?
We believe Richmond does need to have a central focus on public transportation. To build an equitable city, we must have an equitable transportation system. Our current infrastructure put scars before all other means of transportation. We have built a city that is barely navigable by pedestrians and remains hostile towards bikers. You should be able to travel from the north side of the city to the South Side whatever without ever getting in a car and vice versa. We must build a sustainable transportation system based on centralized planning that ensures all citizens have access to low-cost or free public transportation throughout the entire city. We must make sure that all citizens have equal access to every part of our city. Access to services and jobs in our city has remain segregated as a result of our current transportation infrastructure. We can end that segregation but we must commit to more inclusive transportation system it’s sustainable models of Transportation.
Increase GRTC’s annual operating funding by $2 million.
Yes
Last year, Richmond and Henrico launched the region’s first bus rapid transit line and entirely redesigned their portions of the bus network. GRTC routes #2, #5, #20, and #78 all operate in the 5th District. In your view, how could bus service be improved—either in the 5th District or elsewhere—to help residents of the 5th?
The changes to the GRTC have been detrimental to many of the 5th District citizens. The new pulse Line took away vital resources from the Southside and Randolph communities without proper notification of working-class individuals about changes to bus routes. The city must commit to engaging with citizens about public transportation on their own terms. Meetings cannot be held during normal working hours and the city must make attempts to reach all citizens potentially affected by changes to public transportation. We must commit more tax dollars to public transportation. We have a City built around the car and that is not a sustainable model. We must commit to an increase of at least two million to the GRTC and to increase existing access to Residence. Residents who have been affected by changes to the GRTC bus line should be consulted by city council a new public transportation option should be made available to ensure that risk residents can reach their destinations. Residents, especially elderly citizens, have been affected by changes to bus routes. I have talked to many richmonders about the Wade buses allowed them to reach hospital and medical services that they can no longer reach. Our city must be built for the working class and that means having a public transportation system that allows all richmonders to travel our city without the need of a car.
Increase access to community and school based mental health services.
Yes
This year, the Virginia General Assembly increased state funding to support guidance counselors in school. Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan also includes a goal of increasing the number of school counselors by 25%. What specifically will you do to support RPS’ in their goal and to make sure Richmond’s youth have access to mental health services?
To achieve our commitments to increase access to better mental health care for our students, we have to put our money where our mouths are. We must commit to raising our public school budget in order to increase our staffing capabilities.
Cultivate a workforce development program for high school students.
It’s Complicated
Will you advocate for a cross boundary, coordinated approach to Out of School Time for high school students that ties economic development to apprenticeships, mentorships, and partnerships in collaboration with the region’s colleges? In addition, how do you envision engaging businesses in your district to participate in programs like this?
We Believe Richmond city council for better jobs and better opportunities for all Working Class People, especially Young Richmond’s. We Believe that it is not the taxpayers responsibility to incentivize for profit companies to hire from the labor force that makes up our city. We will not give handouts to corporations. If they want to draw from our labor pool, they need to take an equal share in supporting our citizens. We will support job training for young people in the public sector, doing work that benefits all taxpayers, not just those that have the money to pay.
Increase the number of early education opportunities and provide information on existing programs.
Yes
Over 9,500 children in Richmond under the age of five, live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; however, there are only 3,500 seats in both private and public early education centers in the city. What can City Council do to create more early educational opportunities for our most vulnerable children?
To adequately meet the educational needs of our city, we need to provide funding allows us that allows us to have programs that meet the needs of our city. If our real priority is funding education for all Richmonders we must provide a budget that matches our goals.
Fund Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan.
Yes
Schools are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every student has access to a high quality education and safe facilities to learn in? What funding streams would you like to see leveraged to support RPS’ strategic plan? How can Council support RPS’ efforts to streamline their budget?
On City Council, we will work to put Public Schools first. City council has slashed the budget Public Schools by over 9% over the course of five years. Efforts to privatize our schools have left students without properly maintained facilities, left teachers without adequate pay, and cats are public schools understaffed and unprepared to educate the future generation of Richmond. We need a 15% increase to the public schools budget to, at minimum, match our previous schools’ budget and make necessary repairs on our school facilities. The working class of Richmond is rarely considered when we discuss our schools. Streamlining our budget get us out of the hole we’ve dug ourselves into. Austerity is not the solution. We need to put our money where our mouths are. If we really care about our Public Schools like we claim we do, we need to adequately fund them.
Do you support the North of Broad Coliseum Development project as it’s been described and documented to-date?
No
What will be your priorities and redlines when evaluating economic development projects such as this? How will you foster appropriate transparency and public participation in the vetting of economic development projects in the future as potential member of City Council?
I have major concerns with the deal that would make me a “no” vote were it to come to council today. If the additional funding that would eventually be going to schools is based on the revenue generated from the NH project- what is the marketing and branding plan? Who and what is the management vendor planning to bring in during the first year? Compared to similar construction and large scale projects- how do these projected job numbers match up? What are the exact terms of negotiations for the non-recourse revenue bonds? Are we truly held harmless into future budget cycles? How could this deal impact the development happening in other parts of the city? What is the cost-benefit analysis on just selling the entirety of the property to a private developer and still drawing a TIF to collect revenue for schools/roads? This deal promises money in future budget years for future city councils- even if this is done by ordinance- doesn’t the city charter supersede and prohibit this action? Are we deferring funds away from other needs and away from schools via the local composite index, and has there been a serious analysis of the impact of this project on existing Richmond businesses? I’m interested in engaging in an honest dialogue with the community and experts on those questions before being able to support a project like this, but I’m keeping an open mind. Richmond has an opportunity here, but our communities have also suffered greatly from the exploits of former Mayor’s vanity projects. I’ve personally experienced the ramifications of these seemingly admirable but mismanaged undertakings. Under Mayor Dwight Jones, $1.8 million dollars was diverted away from a child care voucher local match that supported twenty of my students at a career technical program in favor of funding the renovation of Altria Theatre. We know this is not going to be the last controversial development project that is going to be considered in Richmond. If we are to expect public buy-in going forward, we have to make an enduring commitment to build together in the sunlight, in the shadows. I’m interested in making that a reality on day one, and I’m similarly committed to this project in my campaign. I’m the only candidate to offer a public survey on the Navy Hill Project–a survey that also clearly lays out my concerns, and provides relevant information and facts for context. Once in office, I would put forward legislation to create a permanent community development advisory commission – made up of citizens from across the City – to provide citizen input on all future projects above a certain dollar threshold. In the interest of transparency, effective communication, and genuinely representing the interests of residents, this is a necessity.
Will you expand greenspace to ensure every Richmonder is a 10-minute walk from a park, trail, or urban agriculture site?
Yes
What investments do you feel are most needed to meet the goal of equitable access to greenspaces like parks and urban agriculture? Where would you most like to see the expansion of greenspace in Richmond to benefit residents?
We need to start by properly funding our Parks and Recreation Department. We are underfunding parks by at least 30% relative to other localities, and proper funding would entail more access to after school programming, outreach efforts, and extended hours and access for all 5th District residents. We also need to fully partner with some of our incredible community organizations such as Tricycle Gardens, the Food Justice Alliance, and others to ensure that neighborhoods in the 5th, particularly south of the river, are given access to urban ag and fresh produce. As I address later on, our tree coverage in Richmond is another critical element to equitable access to green spaces. Not only does increased tree coverage abate runoff and erosion, but it also combats the urban heat island problem that is detrimental to resident’s health, and is concentrated in our poorest neighborhoods. I would call to fully fund the Urban Forestry Division, reinstate and empower the Tree Commission, and partner with philanthropic and community organizations to bring more attention and resources to tree canopy implementation and maintenance.
Will you take immediate steps to reduce the city’s carbon pollution?
Yes
What level and types of investment do you feel are necessary to meet the goal of an 80% reduction in the city’s carbon pollution by 2050? How should City Council ensure that our municipal energy sources, transportation networks, and infrastructure investments reduce our carbon footprint at the pace we need to?
We have a fantastic road map and framework to work off of when it comes to our ambitious but necessary carbon reduction goals. We should continue to focus on the areas outlined in the City’s “Roadmap to sustainability”, namely economic development, energy, environment, open space, and land use, and transportation. Comprehensive and coordinated action among City agencies is necessary to make progress in those areas, and on Council I would advocate for regular reporting from agencies and the administration on progress towards the established benchmarks. We have multiple funding avenues and opportunities to continue to support our carbon reduction mission, and some initiatives, such as installation of solar arrays on new school buildings, and the weatherization of City owned buildings, would actually be revenue positive in the long term. I believe we should leave no stone unturned to solicit grant funding, dollars out of the Virginia State budget, and private investment from our business community to help ensure we are doing everything we can to meet the 80% reduction goal. We can start first with leading by example and setting an audacious goal for requiring all city agency buildings, stop lights and non-departmental funded authorities to implement energy efficient bulbs. This small investment up front will actually yield a cost-savings that will be realized in our electric utility bills.
Will you make significant investments to prepare our city for impacts of climate change?
Yes
Investments should include $21 million for stormwater management projects in 2020 and expanding Richmond’s tree canopy by 10% over the next five years. In addition, how will you work to ensure that the city’s zoning codes, capital projects, agency operating budgets, and other investments align to protect the James River from stormwater pollution, prepare neighborhoods to withstand extreme weather, and keep residents safe?
We have to make across the board investments to protect Richmond from the long term effects of climate change, and to address issues such as flooding and sewage discharge that we are facing right now. Our Combined Sewer System is a sleeping giant that rears its head every time we have heavy rains, a phenomenon we’re experiencing more and more frequently with our changing climate. I would be in support of making above and beyond $21 million in investments to address our CSO, and would look at funding mechanisms such as raising our storm water fee in order to bring in matching SLAP dollars from the state and federal government as well. We also need to be making an investment in proactive and green development, focusing on implementing permeable surfaces wherever possible to reduce run off. Our tree coverage in Richmond is another critical element to the larger environmental picture, and in terms of addressing our flooding and stormwater problems. Not only does increased tree coverage abate runoff and erosion, but it also combats the urban heat island problem that is detrimental to resident’s health, and is concentrated in our poorest neighborhoods. I would call to fully fund the Urban Forestry Division, reinstate and empower the Tree Commission, and partner with philanthropic and community organizations to bring more attention and resources to tree canopy implementation and maintenance.
Do you plan to commit to accelerating the implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
Yes
What does the Council need to do to ensure the James River Park System and broader riverfront gets the funding and attention it needs? What level of funding would you find acceptable to support the James River Park System and implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
The James River Park system is the crown jewel of the 5th, and of Richmond at large. However, Richmond’s Parks and Recreations is 30% underfunded relative to other localities across Virginia. I have been the only candidate to endorse and promote fully funding our parks, and support the priorities as laid out in the James River Master Plan. We have a fantastic Friends of the James River Park System Association who have a proven track record of engaging the community and planning and fundraising for James River Park System’s top priorities, but they are often handcuffed by some of the dysfunctional mechanics in city government such as procurement and contract management. A recommendation that was made for year 5 in the James River Master Plan is to reconfigure the Friends of the James River Association as an Authority so that they could 1) have greater flexibility and shorter timelines on the execution of projects that would help improve the park 2) raise more dollars and ultimately purchase more land for public park use and access 3) adopt and expedite the downtown river development plan.
Do you plan to implement the Richmond 300 Master Plan?
Yes
Have you attended any of the meetings either as a member of the public or an Advisory Council/Workgroup member? Do you believe Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it? What three land use or housing policies would you like to see come out of the master planning process?
I have not because I have had time conflicts during the dates/times when they have been scheduled, however my husband is a member and applied to be in all of the subcommittees. I have been keeping up with the Richmond 300 Master Plan iterations and look forward to supporting all aspects of the plan. I am hopeful that unlike previous attempts in 2000, it will spur some action items and really help to guide policy/decision making into the coming decade. As with the original master plan in 2000 suggested, I think exploring form-based code as a zoning practice would allow for optimal flexibility and ensure that builders can increase the affordable housing inventory.
Do you support the increased density of Richmond’s housing stock?
Yes
Richmond was more dense in 1950 than it is today. Increased density cuts housing costs for residents, preserves the City’s limited greenspace, and saves the City money on providing essential services. What changes, either administratively or via ordinance, can the City make to facilitate dense residential development? How do we ensure a diversity of housing stock that is accessible to Richmonders at all income levels?
We absolutely need to invest in dense, mixed and low income, and multi use development in the 5th. I would focus on a few key areas to ensure that we get this done. First, we need to invest our resources towards this problem through the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and other sources, and work with RRHA to make sure that there is a comprehensive plan to increase affordable and mixed income housing stock that is situated strategically in relation to transit and economic/job opportunities. Administratively, we need to look at the current process by which we auction off tax delinquent properties, and look into keeping those properties in City ownership through the Treasurer’s office to work with residents to try to keep them in their homes. Additionally, we need to pursue action via ordinance to ensure that future economic development and housing projects make a long term commitment to incorporate mixed income units and properties in their developments. We also need to directly address stresses on the housing stock by engaging with entities like VCU to enter into MOUs with surrounding neighborhoods to work towards a more deliberate process of growth and development that includes community buy in and feedback.
Do you support the creation and implementation of anti-displacement policies?
Yes
What kind of policy you would seek to help maintain Richmond’s economic and racial diversity? Are there existing programs that are underutilized, for example the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, that could be leveraged more effectively? Would you support a longtime owner occupant program similar to Philadelphia’s?
I think it is a testament to how incredible our vibrant and historical neighborhoods are that we have an influx of people moving in and buying homes in neighborhoods such as Randolph and Swansboro. However, that influx comes with a serious set of challenges. We need to ensure that that as we grow, we are helping families that have called these neighborhoods home for generations keep up with rising property values, assessments, and taxes. This will take a multi- faceted approach. First, we need to ensure that existing resources such as the elderly tax relief program are being fully utilized by our elderly friends and neighbors so that they are able to age in place and in their communities. I am the only candidate who is taking action to meet people where they are, and for every door I knock, I have produced, in partnership with nonprofit partners, an informational flyer on the Tax Relief Program in Richmond that I share with eligible voters. Second, we need to work through RRHA to heavily invest in mixed income, small scale development that is integrated into neighborhoods in a way that is sensitive to transportation needs and area employment opportunities. Lastly, I will advocate along with our Council and Administration at the state level to invest in programs such as the recently adopted Pilot Eviction Diversion Program, and continue to push for increased funding for initiatives such as the Virginia Housing Trust Fund.
Support diversity and inclusion training and trauma informed practices among all public safety personnel.
Yes
With the hiring of a new Police Chief and several staffing transitions, we believe it is critical for public safety personnel to develop authentic relationships with the communities they serve. Where does this rank on your list of public safety priorities? How will we ensure that we are holding our law enforcement more accountable and creating more transparency?
As a social worker who has experience working in communities that both are afflicted by crime and interact on a daily basis with our City’s police force, I know how important it is that we commit to a true community policing model. I have and continue to support the establishment of a Civilian Oversight Board in Richmond with the power to independently review and issue judgments regarding alleged abuse or racial bias on the part of our police. We also have to work with our Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office to ensure there is a rigorous procedure in place for investigating potential police abuses. On the ground, we need to make an investment in persistent community presence of both police and other city officials in affected neighborhoods, and those officials need to be trained on trauma informed, de escalation driven policing tactics. We also have to build on the progress that we’ve made to employ and retain a police force that is as diverse as our city is.
Support the funding priorities in the budget that will attract and retain bilingual government employees.
Yes
Richmond’s Latin-x population continues to increase with the US Census Bureau estimating a 12% increase over the last eight years. This trend is projected to steadily rise. How will you advocate for a workforce that is equipped to provide access to city services for the Latin-x population? How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every Latin-x student has access to quality education?
Diversity is our strength, and we need to ensure that the Latin-x community is not relegated to second class citizenship in Richmond because of a lack of resources and accessibility. Ensuring we have robust ESL programs in our schools, investing in creating Spanish language resources and materials for navigating City processes and at social services centers, and ensuring that we have employees who can work with our Latin-x community at City Hall in a culturally competent manner are all critical. As a social worker, I have seen what a significant barrier language can be to achieving basic quality of life. I look forward to working collaboratively with School Board and the Administration to support our Latin-x community wherever possible.
Support data sharing and increased public access to the outcomes and performance measures for all agencies receiving non-departmental funding.
Yes
How should we hold non-departmental funding recipients accountable for quality services? What data sharing policies would you implement to increase public awareness of these services and resources? How would you ensure that recipients are making an impact in the City?
It is a common practice in the nonprofit world for grant recipients to produce outcomes and annual reports which demonstrate not only their positive impact on the community, but their efficient use of dollars. The majority of 501 C3 non-profits who are also receiving non-departmental funds are in the habit of doing this and the city could easily make these Annual Reports available on its website. Where we lack is transparency in the quasi-agency/authority area. I do not believe we need to create more roadblocks and red tape for organizations that receive limited resources, but I do intend to promote performance-based practices such as requiring certain Authorities to set metrics and publicly post report cards on these metrics every year so that we as city council members can trust that we’re funding programs that are working for the people. Additionally, I would ask that the top 10 funded organizations receiving over a certain dollar amount are required to share their budgets with City Council members so that we can ensure that indirect costs (what’s being paid in salaries and operating costs) is at a sensible ratio to direct costs (costs going directly to serve the needs of citizens and/or the program). A sensible ratio as defined in the non-profit space hovers around 15%.
Commit to $1 million per year of City funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
Yes
Establishing safe and accessible places for people to bike and walk will require capital funding for infrastructure. Where, specifically, would you invest in better pedestrian and bike infrastructure? What do you see as the major safety and mobility challenges facing pedestrians and people on bikes as they move around the 5th District?
We have a cultural, resource, and access problem with regards to bike and pedestrian safety in our City. Culturally, we have to work to educate our residents starting in their behind the wheel training to better accommodate all occupants of the road. In terms of resources and access, we know that investing in sidewalks, bumpouts, high visibility crosswalks, and protected bike lanes all make a meaningful impact in preventing unnecessary traffic fatalities. With regard to specific projects, I think we have to hear from our local neighborhood associations, to embrace and fund suggestions such as creating a connected green way between the Maymont, Carilion, and Byrd park neighborhoods, implementing stop lights and high viz cross walks on Semmes, and more. Much of the funding to achieve these goals could be leveraged through increased enforcement of traffic and moving violations, as well as State and Federal level grants for Vision Zero projects. I would also like to see further implementation of the RVA Bike Share program south of the river. The concept behind a robust bike share system in Richmond has to based upon equitable access in residential communities across Richmond, not just in wealthier neighborhoods and downtown. Further expansion of the RVA Bike Share would mean increased low cost transit access for families, students, and workers, as well as potentially more commerce and foot traffic in less affluent neighborhoods. We have to make more affordable annual passes available, as well as partner with private interests in the City to sponsor the expansion of stations in order to make this a reality.
Implement and support the legislative and budget components of the Vision Zero action plan.
Yes
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. In March 2016, Richmond City Council passed a Vision Zero Resolution (RES. 2016-R011) that “supports the development of a Vision Zero program for the City of Richmond with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries in road traffic to zero by the year 2030,” and in October 2017 Mayor Stoney signed a commitment to make Richmond a Vision Zero city. The City’s Vision Zero Action Plan includes legislative and budget actions that City Council could pass today. If elected to City Council, which of those would you prioritize and why?
This will be one of my top priorities on day one. We can’t create a more inclusive and equitable 5th District if residents can’t get around safely and affordably. I will advocate for pedestrians with all of the tools afforded to me on Council, and this starts by fighting for more money in the budgeting process to invest in crosswalks, bike lanes, high visibility signage, and traffic calming measures such as curb bump outs and speed bumps. This will also take long term structural changes such as the city wide lowering of speed limits in residential areas as proposed by Councilman Jones, consideration of multi-modality in future development and expansion, and education, particularly in our behind the wheel courses in RPS, centered around drivers’ relationship with pedestrians. We also have to engage with existing partners such as Bike Walk RVA to leverage grassroots engagement and fully fund their proposals. We have a beautiful and vibrant 5th District, but unfortunately right now, a lot of people don’t have meaningful access to all it offers because of how difficult we make it to get around without a car. We have to change that.
Establish and fund a dedicated Richmond Department of Transportation.
Yes
As Richmond continues to grow, so will the challenge of how to move more residents and visitors within the city limits by walking, biking, transit, car-share, driving, and future transportation options. How can the City overcome its current disconnected planning process and begin to centrally plan, coordinate, and build multimodal transportation projects?
I think that this an excellent model for addressing this problem. We can not continue to silo these initiatives in DPU, DPW, and other City agencies when we are faced with such a systemic issue. A central Department would allow for more coordinated development and planning, easier cooperation with community organizations and transit oriented non-profits, and a more robust and dedicated funding mechanism in the long term.
Increase GRTC’s annual operating funding by $2 million.
Yes
Last year, Richmond and Henrico launched the region’s first bus rapid transit line and entirely redesigned their portions of the bus network. GRTC routes #2, #5, #20, and #78 all operate in the 5th District. In your view, how could bus service be improved—either in the 5th District or elsewhere—to help residents of the 5th?
My top transit priority would be increasing access and coverage for GRTC. The Pulse has been largely a success in terms of engaging more riders and driving up system wide ridership, as well as in terms of connecting residents with businesses and job opportunities, but it has unfortunately meant less access in some neighborhoods in the 5th as detailed in a recent analysis done by VCU. We need to emphasize broadening bus access and increasing frequency of lines, particularly on the 5th’s Southside. In order to achieve this, we have to look at increased funding for GRTC from the Richmond budget, but also at engaging with our regional partners in Chesterfield and Henrico to ensure that they’re paying their fair share. We also have to look at a modernized bus transfer center that can serve as a hub for routes throughout the City to more efficiently connect residents with work, school, and play.
Increase access to community and school based mental health services.
Yes
This year, the Virginia General Assembly increased state funding to support guidance counselors in school. Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan also includes a goal of increasing the number of school counselors by 25%. What specifically will you do to support RPS’ in their goal and to make sure Richmond’s youth have access to mental health services?
I am the only candidate with a track record of getting this exact work done. I have already spearheaded efforts at the state level to bring School Based Health Centers (SBHC) into Virginia, and helped to establish the first of its kind, trauma-informed care SBHC Pilot at Petersburg High School. A concept of community schools that fully addresses the holistic needs of students in one setting is absolutely critical, and is well worth our investment of budget dollars. We need to allocate sufficient money to be able to meet the match requirements set out by the state, and in future budget cycles we need to advocate for an increase to the “At Risk Add On” budgetary mechanism that would allow for more funding for the most resource strapped schools in Richmond.
Cultivate a workforce development program for high school students.
Yes
Will you advocate for a cross boundary, coordinated approach to Out of School Time for high school students that ties economic development to apprenticeships, mentorships, and partnerships in collaboration with the region’s colleges? In addition, how do you envision engaging businesses in your district to participate in programs like this?
I absolutely would advocate for coordinated out of school time for high and middle school students. I see the relationship between Richmond area businesses and our schools as a symbiotic one. We have one of the most talented and diverse workforces in all of Virginia, and we have Richmond Public Schools to thank for that. As businesses leverage our local talent, it’s important that they give back to their community. This partnership can and should take many forms, including corporate financial support for our schools, jobs training and mentorship programs starting in early ed, and continuing education opportunities in the form of licensing, credentialing, and job placement opportunities upon graduation. I am proud of the work that I’ve done in this area, and my track record of raising over $120,000 in private dollars in pursuit of the Petersburg High School School Based Health Center speaks to my ability to leverage relationships and create meaningful partnerships in this space.
Increase the number of early education opportunities and provide information on existing programs.
Yes
Over 9,500 children in Richmond under the age of five, live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; however, there are only 3,500 seats in both private and public early education centers in the city. What can City Council do to create more early educational opportunities for our most vulnerable children?
Head Start is a federally funded program with state allocation towards localities- so we are somewhat hampered by the limited resources given at the state and federal level, however we can be creative with our remaining resources at the local level. We have Boys and Girls Clubs, thriving YMCA and YWCA programming and over 21 community centers that host summer, before and afterschool programming. I have been very vocal about fully funding Parks & Recreation (where our Community Centers receive their funding), and coordinating more access to experiential learning in our city’s parks and green spaces.
Fund Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan.
Yes
Schools are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every student has access to a high quality education and safe facilities to learn in? What funding streams would you like to see leveraged to support RPS’ strategic plan? How can Council support RPS’ efforts to streamline their budget?
Richmond Public Schools absolutely needs additional funding support, and the strategic plan is a top priority. If elected, I would pursue a couple of things right off the bat. I would push for 1) an increase in the “payment in lieu of taxes” from tax exempt property on our state agency buildings, who pay next to nothing but take up a combined $782 million of taxable property; 2) advocate for the increase of the At-Risk Add On at the state level to leverage more dollars for schools and teachers so that we reallocate more funding for buildings; 3) demand that the Virginia Lottery funds are audited so that we can gain an understanding of the funding mechanisms available there; 4) work with the School Board to overhaul the way that RPS does procurement of developers and contractors.
Do you support the North of Broad Coliseum Development project as it’s been described and documented to-date?
No
What will be your priorities and redlines when evaluating economic development projects such as this? How will you foster appropriate transparency and public participation in the vetting of economic development projects in the future as potential member of City Council?
Anytime we consider dedicating public funds to these types of projects, we must weigh the economic promises made by the developers against the potential risks of failure. I do not support the current NH proposal. My economic priorities are: on-site paid job training/certification, realistic affordable housing, and procurement guarantees for minority-owned and Richmond-based businesses. I want Richmonders building Richmond. I am always willing to discuss changes to the proposal, but this plan needs to sufficiently address these key priorities of Richmonders in future projects. The current plan does not.
Will you expand greenspace to ensure every Richmonder is a 10-minute walk from a park, trail, or urban agriculture site?
Yes
What investments do you feel are most needed to meet the goal of equitable access to greenspaces like parks and urban agriculture? Where would you most like to see the expansion of greenspace in Richmond to benefit residents?
I support the full implementation of the James River Park System Master Plan, the Regional Rivers Plan, and the Richmond 300 Plan, where I sit on the Advisory Council.
Will you take immediate steps to reduce the city’s carbon pollution?
Yes
What level and types of investment do you feel are necessary to meet the goal of an 80% reduction in the city’s carbon pollution by 2050? How should City Council ensure that our municipal energy sources, transportation networks, and infrastructure investments reduce our carbon footprint at the pace we need to?
Implementation of the Greater RVA Transit Vision Plan, with a particular focus on a North-South bus rapid transit line to complement the East-West Pulse line. We need to incentive cleaner public multi-model options in our city.
Will you make significant investments to prepare our city for impacts of climate change?
It’s Complicated
Investments should include $21 million for stormwater management projects in 2020 and expanding Richmond’s tree canopy by 10% over the next five years. In addition, how will you work to ensure that the city’s zoning codes, capital projects, agency operating budgets, and other investments align to protect the James River from stormwater pollution, prepare neighborhoods to withstand extreme weather, and keep residents safe?
The effects of climate change is tough to predict, but the city has laid out plans to improve our aging infrastructure. The biggest is upgrading our sewage and stormwater systems to account for the projected population in crease in the coming decades. We also need to encourage citizen use more environmentally-friendly practices in regards to runoff and recycling.
Do you plan to commit to accelerating the implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
It’s Complicated
What does the Council need to do to ensure the James River Park System and broader riverfront gets the funding and attention it needs? What level of funding would you find acceptable to support the James River Park System and implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
As previously stated, I support the full implementation of the James River Park System Master Plan, the Regional Rivers Plan, and the Richmond 300 Plan. We should fund these project conjugation with building new school inphasture and with an eye to preserve and monetize on our natural asset- the James River.
Do you plan to implement the Richmond 300 Master Plan?
Yes
Have you attended any of the meetings either as a member of the public or an Advisory Council/Workgroup member? Do you believe Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it? What three land use or housing policies would you like to see come out of the master planning process?
As previously stated, I serve as an Advisory Council member for Richmond 300 Plan. City Council is entitled to make the change they deem neccessay. The Plan is a recommendation to be adopted. I support the increased density with more duplexes and multi-family developments. I also support more multi-model transit options across the city.
Do you support the increased density of Richmond’s housing stock?
Yes
Richmond was more dense in 1950 than it is today. Increased density cuts housing costs for residents, preserves the City’s limited greenspace, and saves the City money on providing essential services. What changes, either administratively or via ordinance, can the City make to facilitate dense residential development? How do we ensure a diversity of housing stock that is accessible to Richmonders at all income levels?
We need to re-examine our zoning laws to allow for denser and affordable housing options along public transit routes. We know that the best way to counteract rising housing costs is to increase the supply of new housing units.
Do you support the creation and implementation of anti-displacement policies?
Yes
What kind of policy you would seek to help maintain Richmond’s economic and racial diversity? Are there existing programs that are underutilized, for example the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, that could be leveraged more effectively? Would you support a longtime owner occupant program similar to Philadelphia’s?
Yes, the city’s Real Estate Tax Relief for the Elderly & Disabled. I would champion a public awareness and application campaign to get more qualified elders in the program. Most of the eligible elders in Richmond are not in this program which is exacerbating gentrification.
Support diversity and inclusion training and trauma informed practices among all public safety personnel.
Yes
With the hiring of a new Police Chief and several staffing transitions, we believe it is critical for public safety personnel to develop authentic relationships with the communities they serve. Where does this rank on your list of public safety priorities? How will we ensure that we are holding our law enforcement more accountable and creating more transparency?
Increased diversity and trauma inform practices are vital to preparing our officers to “protext and serve.” But we also need change the culture in RPD to know community members outside of National Night Out. We have numerous unsolved murders in the city that strong relationships in the detective ranks can solve.
Support the funding priorities in the budget that will attract and retain bilingual government employees.
Yes
Richmond’s Latin-x population continues to increase with the US Census Bureau estimating a 12% increase over the last eight years. This trend is projected to steadily rise. How will you advocate for a workforce that is equipped to provide access to city services for the Latin-x population? How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every Latin-x student has access to quality education?
Council should continue allocating more funding to RPS for the increase in Latin-x students. We should also increase bilingual staff and signage in public facilities and transit. This population is entitled to city services and we need staff that can address their concerns in the language they are more fluent in.
Support data sharing and increased public access to the outcomes and performance measures for all agencies receiving non-departmental funding.
It’s Complicated
How should we hold non-departmental funding recipients accountable for quality services? What data sharing policies would you implement to increase public awareness of these services and resources? How would you ensure that recipients are making an impact in the City?
I plan to work with colleagues on Council to audit and find best practices to streamline this information.
Commit to $1 million per year of City funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
Yes
Establishing safe and accessible places for people to bike and walk will require capital funding for infrastructure. Where, specifically, would you invest in better pedestrian and bike infrastructure? What do you see as the major safety and mobility challenges facing pedestrians and people on bikes as they move around the 5th District?
I will support expanding protected infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians across our entire city, prioritizing the roads and intersections that have seen multiple collisions. The Semmes/Forest Hill corridor stands out. Speeding on this road is a hazard for drivers, cyclist, and pedestrians.
Implement and support the legislative and budget components of the Vision Zero action plan.
Yes
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. In March 2016, Richmond City Council passed a Vision Zero Resolution (RES. 2016-R011) that “supports the development of a Vision Zero program for the City of Richmond with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries in road traffic to zero by the year 2030,” and in October 2017 Mayor Stoney signed a commitment to make Richmond a Vision Zero city. The City’s Vision Zero Action Plan includes legislative and budget actions that City Council could pass today. If elected to City Council, which of those would you prioritize and why?
Last year, the number of pedestrians killed by drivers was more than doubled from 2017. That is unacceptable and we are clearly dropping the ball when it comes to protecting our neighbors and implementing the Vision Zero Action Plan. In addition to reducing speed limits, stepping up enforcement, and expanding protected bike lanes, and installing “curb bulbs” at high traffic area
Establish and fund a dedicated Richmond Department of Transportation.
Yes
As Richmond continues to grow, so will the challenge of how to move more residents and visitors within the city limits by walking, biking, transit, car-share, driving, and future transportation options. How can the City overcome its current disconnected planning process and begin to centrally plan, coordinate, and build multimodal transportation projects?
I will commit to funding multimodal alternative forms of transportation that take cars off of the road, which leads to a safer and healthier environment for us all. We need to expand transit options through out the based on recommendations from Richmond300 (which I serve on).
Increase GRTC’s annual operating funding by $2 million.
Yes
Last year, Richmond and Henrico launched the region’s first bus rapid transit line and entirely redesigned their portions of the bus network. GRTC routes #2, #5, #20, and #78 all operate in the 5th District. In your view, how could bus service be improved—either in the 5th District or elsewhere—to help residents of the 5th?
Implementation of the Greater RVA Transit Vision Plan, with a particular focus on a North-South bus rapid transit line to complement the East-West Pulse line. Another priority would be ensuring that all bus stops in the city have shelter and seating.
Increase access to community and school based mental health services.
Yes
This year, the Virginia General Assembly increased state funding to support guidance counselors in school. Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan also includes a goal of increasing the number of school counselors by 25%. What specifically will you do to support RPS’ in their goal and to make sure Richmond’s youth have access to mental health services?
I plan to support RPS in their goals by working with my colleagues on Council to increase funding and find new approaches to support our students’ mental health and trauma informed care.
Cultivate a workforce development program for high school students.
Yes
Will you advocate for a cross boundary, coordinated approach to Out of School Time for high school students that ties economic development to apprenticeships, mentorships, and partnerships in collaboration with the region’s colleges? In addition, how do you envision engaging businesses in your district to participate in programs like this?
Absolutely, investing in youth summer jobs and apprenticeships is a staple of my campaign. I plan to work with our business community to create pipelines for our students to get in-demand job skills and certifications.
Increase the number of early education opportunities and provide information on existing programs.
It’s Complicated
Over 9,500 children in Richmond under the age of five, live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; however, there are only 3,500 seats in both private and public early education centers in the city. What can City Council do to create more early educational opportunities for our most vulnerable children?
Our pre-K system is broken in Virginia. City Council should work with School Board and private providers (faith-based organiation) to insure adiquate supply of high quality early education centers across the city near public transit. But this ultimately requires the General Assembly to allocate more funding to education that they cut during the Great Recession.
Fund Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan.
Yes
Schools are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every student has access to a high quality education and safe facilities to learn in? What funding streams would you like to see leveraged to support RPS’ strategic plan? How can Council support RPS’ efforts to streamline their budget?
I support funding RPS’s strategic plan. We just need to adjust our approach to funding to better serve all our students. We need support from RPS to rezone to address unsafe buildings, overcrowding, and segregation.
Do you support the North of Broad Coliseum Development project as it’s been described and documented to-date?
It’s Complicated
What will be your priorities and redlines when evaluating economic development projects such as this? How will you foster appropriate transparency and public participation in the vetting of economic development projects in the future as potential member of City Council?
The City affordable housing rate vs the regional affordable housing rate. The current project is not including a good portion of the population in Richmond. Many are classified as the working poor. This is what mixed income housing is a better option than affordable housing. There is no clear plan for parking to support large events. Just as in the past Richmond could not attract major tournaments because of parking. We also do not have 3 years to wait for school funding. Total transparency and public participation will always be a part of any decision I vote for or policy I may create.
Will you expand greenspace to ensure every Richmonder is a 10-minute walk from a park, trail, or urban agriculture site?
It’s Complicated
What investments do you feel are most needed to meet the goal of equitable access to greenspaces like parks and urban agriculture? Where would you most like to see the expansion of greenspace in Richmond to benefit residents?
We need to invest in creating and preserving our greenspaces particularly in our low income areas. I would promote and support more engagement with our Parks & Recreation Department to create more opportunities to engage the community encouraging the use of our parks and the creation of more community gardens. Richmond 300 is off to a good start in addressing this issue. I would also encourage civic organizations, churches and schools to help educate our citizens about the agencies that are investing in developing our city. As a council person I will inform my district and all citizens of Richmond through as many forms of communication possible.
Will you take immediate steps to reduce the city’s carbon pollution?
It’s Complicated
What level and types of investment do you feel are necessary to meet the goal of an 80% reduction in the city’s carbon pollution by 2050? How should City Council ensure that our municipal energy sources, transportation networks, and infrastructure investments reduce our carbon footprint at the pace we need to?
Trees, Trees, Trees, and more trees. Solar panels for more city buildings as our schools are currently using. Support solar panel programs for homeowners. Reaching out to the surrounding County Boards to create transit stations and to support extended GRTC service to decrease the commuter traffic for work, business, entertainment, recreation, education and extended employment opportunities for City and surrounding county residents. I will encourage our Civic Associations to include as much education for our citizens as possible on the many small things each of us can do to shrink our individual footprints. I would also promote and support churches to cross denominational and racial lines, partnering with local Communities and Schools in Climate Justice Projects.
Will you make significant investments to prepare our city for impacts of climate change?
It’s Complicated
Investments should include $21 million for stormwater management projects in 2020 and expanding Richmond’s tree canopy by 10% over the next five years. In addition, how will you work to ensure that the city’s zoning codes, capital projects, agency operating budgets, and other investments align to protect the James River from stormwater pollution, prepare neighborhoods to withstand extreme weather, and keep residents safe?
Hold our businesses accountable for clean energy practices enforcing and adding any needed legislation to protect our natural resources.
Do you plan to commit to accelerating the implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
It’s Complicated
What does the Council need to do to ensure the James River Park System and broader riverfront gets the funding and attention it needs? What level of funding would you find acceptable to support the James River Park System and implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
There is no actual line item for the River Front Project, I believe; non-profit groups obtain grants and that some city funding is involved. I would definitely support the maximum possible to invest in the upgrade of infrastructure and only approve projects which will support the required drainage systems required to protect our James River and surrounding area. We have the Chesapeake Bay Agreement in place as well as the Governor’s Watershed Implementation Plan with the goals of pollution redirecting and sanitary overflow. We have several areas throughout the city that are affected by heavy rains which cause flooding in neighborhoods and well traveled streets.
Do you plan to implement the Richmond 300 Master Plan?
It’s Complicated
Have you attended any of the meetings either as a member of the public or an Advisory Council/Workgroup member? Do you believe Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it? What three land use or housing policies would you like to see come out of the master planning process?
I have attended a couple work group meetings. Yes I do believe that City Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it only upon yielding to the majority of the District I represent.
Do you support the increased density of Richmond’s housing stock?
It’s Complicated
Richmond was more dense in 1950 than it is today. Increased density cuts housing costs for residents, preserves the City’s limited greenspace, and saves the City money on providing essential services. What changes, either administratively or via ordinance, can the City make to facilitate dense residential development? How do we ensure a diversity of housing stock that is accessible to Richmonders at all income levels?
Mixed income housing. Prime example, Monument Ave. Apartment complexes between equally sized million dollar mansions. I resided in Shoreview Minnesota and my community consisted of eight-plexes containing 3 bedroom, 2 bedroom, 1 bedroom and studio units in between $300,000-500,000 homes with green spaces.
Do you support the creation and implementation of anti-displacement policies?
It’s Complicated
What kind of policy you would seek to help maintain Richmond’s economic and racial diversity? Are there existing programs that are underutilized, for example the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, that could be leveraged more effectively? Would you support a longtime owner occupant program similar to Philadelphia’s?
Yes, the Real Estate Tax Relief Program applications are being made clearer. I believe the previous language used was a little confusing and many qualifying citizens did not realize that they would be able to participate. By the way the 5ht District is the best performing at this time and we will continue working with our wonderful Civic organizations to reach everyone who would benefit. We have the Homestead ACT and yes, I would support a program similar to the long term owner occupant program in Philadelphia.
Support diversity and inclusion training and trauma informed practices among all public safety personnel.
It’s Complicated
With the hiring of a new Police Chief and several staffing transitions, we believe it is critical for public safety personnel to develop authentic relationships with the communities they serve. Where does this rank on your list of public safety priorities? How will we ensure that we are holding our law enforcement more accountable and creating more transparency?
[No Answer]
Support the funding priorities in the budget that will attract and retain bilingual government employees.
It’s Complicated
Richmond’s Latin-x population continues to increase with the US Census Bureau estimating a 12% increase over the last eight years. This trend is projected to steadily rise. How will you advocate for a workforce that is equipped to provide access to city services for the Latin-x population? How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every Latin-x student has access to quality education?
We must reach out to Latino Community leaders to assist with recruiting Latinos to equip our workforce and offer incentives for bilingual employees. Council should work with RPS on funding for alternative school hours for the Latino Students who have to work during regular school hours disrupting their academic progress. Support RPS with funding to recruit translators and tutors for our Latino Students. I also support the Middle College at J S R Community College.
Support data sharing and increased public access to the outcomes and performance measures for all agencies receiving non-departmental funding.
It’s Complicated
How should we hold non-departmental funding recipients accountable for quality services? What data sharing policies would you implement to increase public awareness of these services and resources? How would you ensure that recipients are making an impact in the City?
Posting accountability reports for all the sub-grant recipients. GRTC for example. Keeping the public informed. Total transparency
Commit to $1 million per year of City funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
It’s Complicated
Establishing safe and accessible places for people to bike and walk will require capital funding for infrastructure. Where, specifically, would you invest in better pedestrian and bike infrastructure? What do you see as the major safety and mobility challenges facing pedestrians and people on bikes as they move around the 5th District?
Infrastructure including more sidewalks needed for pedestrians, more visible street signs controlling vegetation and needed traffic lights at high traffic intersections. Lower speed limits and on several corridors with bus riders, pedestrians and those with limited mobility crossing streets. Wheelchair ramps at all bus stops.
Implement and support the legislative and budget components of the Vision Zero action plan.
It’s Complicated
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. In March 2016, Richmond City Council passed a Vision Zero Resolution (RES. 2016-R011) that “supports the development of a Vision Zero program for the City of Richmond with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries in road traffic to zero by the year 2030,” and in October 2017 Mayor Stoney signed a commitment to make Richmond a Vision Zero city. The City’s Vision Zero Action Plan includes legislative and budget actions that City Council could pass today. If elected to City Council, which of those would you prioritize and why?
This is going to be a step by step process. Gradual steps in infrastructure, funding and educating citizens. Vision Zero is a great plan to make district and city safer for our children, pedestrians, cyclists, scooters and vehicles. We must educate our citizens prior to and during new changes infrastructure and traffic adjustments. We also need to reach out to our citizens creatively reinforcing common sense safety practices.
I would prioritize infrastructure, speed limit changes and educating citizens.
Establish and fund a dedicated Richmond Department of Transportation.
It’s Complicated
As Richmond continues to grow, so will the challenge of how to move more residents and visitors within the city limits by walking, biking, transit, car-share, driving, and future transportation options. How can the City overcome its current disconnected planning process and begin to centrally plan, coordinate, and build multimodal transportation projects?
I would support a Regional Transit System which would need to be discussed between the nine districts and surrounding County Boards. I would support legislation similar to the Funding Stream for Hampton Roads.
Increase GRTC’s annual operating funding by $2 million.
It’s Complicated
Last year, Richmond and Henrico launched the region’s first bus rapid transit line and entirely redesigned their portions of the bus network. GRTC routes #2, #5, #20, and #78 all operate in the 5th District. In your view, how could bus service be improved—either in the 5th District or elsewhere—to help residents of the 5th?
Data Driven. Need public input
Increase access to community and school based mental health services.
It’s Complicated
This year, the Virginia General Assembly increased state funding to support guidance counselors in school. Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan also includes a goal of increasing the number of school counselors by 25%. What specifically will you do to support RPS’ in their goal and to make sure Richmond’s youth have access to mental health services?
The trauma information need has been identified. Now it is time for the resources to address the issues.
Trained professionals, partnering with Clergy and retired educators.
Cultivate a workforce development program for high school students.
It’s Complicated
Will you advocate for a cross boundary, coordinated approach to Out of School Time for high school students that ties economic development to apprenticeships, mentorships, and partnerships in collaboration with the region’s colleges? In addition, how do you envision engaging businesses in your district to participate in programs like this?
Absolutely. This sort of program is vital to our education process. Corporations will benefit from this because they would be investing in their future workforce. Branding opportunities for our current and new schools and colleges. Incentives for small businesses as well to participate.
Increase the number of early education opportunities and provide information on existing programs.
It’s Complicated
Over 9,500 children in Richmond under the age of five, live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; however, there are only 3,500 seats in both private and public early education centers in the city. What can City Council do to create more early educational opportunities for our most vulnerable children?
We must review and update job descriptions and review our current staff with HR and ensure they are performing as they should, engaging the children. I will support funding for solid policy to address zoning issues and transportation to quality facilities. State Social Service off site facilities.
Fund Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan.
It’s Complicated
Schools are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every student has access to a high quality education and safe facilities to learn in? What funding streams would you like to see leveraged to support RPS’ strategic plan? How can Council support RPS’ efforts to streamline their budget?
I will support the maximum funds allowable for new and upgraded facilities, Community Schools, Teacher salaries above the national average and better pay for teacher assistants. Equal resources to all schools. I would like for the current cigarette tax to be used in addition to reaching out to our state legislature to increase the alcohol tax. I would reach out to corporations to engage in Corporate Citizenship being good stewards in our communities by investing in schools with branding opportunities while investing in their future workforce. Property taxes on facilities like the Arthur Ashe Center and recurring tax payments. Strengthening the Education Compact and post it publicly. More on time reconciliation of categorical funding transfers approved by City Council. State Lobbyist and City Council/RPS Lobbyist coming back to us.
Did Not Submit Questionnaire
Did Not Submit Questionnaire
Did Not Submit Questionnaire
Do you support the North of Broad Coliseum Development project as it’s been described and documented to-date?
It’s Complicated
What will be your priorities and redlines when evaluating economic development projects such as this? How will you foster appropriate transparency and public participation in the vetting of economic development projects in the future as potential member of City Council?
I support economic development, rightly done. Our city needs to continue to grow, and we need to reverse decades of private and public disinvestment in our city, and we need to provide immediately accessible economic opportunities for our thousands of city resident living below or near the poverty line. Our city needs more revenue so we can better meet the many needs described throughout this questionnaire, without having to resort to continual tax increases.
What does rightly done look like? I stated in July five clear principles for evaluating economic development proposals: capacity to generate living wage jobs benefitting city residents (especially under-employed residents); capacity to develop new affordable housing; minority contracting provisions; transparency as to taxpayer risk (and potential benefit); and whether or not the project gains a broad cross-section of public buy-in.
With respect to North of Broad, I’m still evaluating the degree to which it meets these criteria, well aware that to this point it has not won public buy-in. I also have stated repeatedly that with a deal of this magnitude, especially bearing the name of Navy Hill, it must have an explicit community wealth building component that goes beyond employment to impact who actually owners businesses and restaurants as a result of the project (if completed). The project must be explicit about building black wealth and building community wealth.
For me to potentially support the project, I will also need to see the basis for all financial projections, a detailed table showing year-by-year financial flows projected from the project, and most importantly an assurance that the project as a whole does not negatively impact funding for RPS at any point in the life of the deal compared to the status quo.
The establishment by City Council of a review commission for the Navy Hill proposal was appropriate and I will be paying close attention to its work, findings, and recommendations, as well as the perspectives of 5th District voters. Opinions on this project are intense, but my responsibility as a potential Council member is to be sure my vote is based on an informed assessment of the deal and a consistent application of the evaluative principles listed above.
Quite clearly, there is room for improvement in process for future economic development deals. Public involvement on the front end of projects, prior to the release of RFPs or RFQs, is essential going forward, and in general the City should seek to avoid circumstances in which there is only one qualified bid for a project. I have concerns about any proposal to create a standing review commission for proposed developments; there are numerous process steps in place already a project must pass through to reach final approval. We should also recognize that public-private partnerships sometimes require negotiations be private, although the results of such negotiations must always be public and subject to scrutiny. I do believe the current administration erred in fighting FOIA requests related to the Coliseum proposal (not least because the released documents showed that the City staff was asking quite rigorous questions of the developer).
I will be releasing my final statement evaluating the viability of this proposal no later than October 21. If elected to the position and the project is still moving forward, I will call for a community meeting with the developers and the administration my first week in office to facilitate dialogue and gain as much community input as possible, and I will host as many such meetings as requested by constituents.
Will you expand greenspace to ensure every Richmonder is a 10-minute walk from a park, trail, or urban agriculture site?
Yes
What investments do you feel are most needed to meet the goal of equitable access to greenspaces like parks and urban agriculture? Where would you most like to see the expansion of greenspace in Richmond to benefit residents?
My campaign has called for a comprehensive equity audit of all City agencies, to measure where and to whom services are being delivered, as well as who has access to services and amenities. We need more greenspace throughout the City, but I will support prioritizing expansion of parks and urban agriculture in districts that lack sufficient access (such as much of the East End). I also believe the participatory budgeting process slated to begin next year with $3 million of capital budget annually is a great opportunity to fund community-identified priorities for green space expansion.
The Fifth District is blessed with some incredible resources such as Byrd Park, Maymont, James River Park, Carter Jones Park, access to Forest Hill Park, and more, as well as model community gardens such as McDonough Community Garden. My priority as 5th District representative will to secure resources to maintain and improve these assets, to expand access and use especially for children and low-income residents, and to identify and support opportunities to develop more community gardens in the District.
Will you take immediate steps to reduce the city’s carbon pollution?
Yes
What level and types of investment do you feel are necessary to meet the goal of an 80% reduction in the city’s carbon pollution by 2050? How should City Council ensure that our municipal energy sources, transportation networks, and infrastructure investments reduce our carbon footprint at the pace we need to?
As a first step, we need to make the City’s Sustainability Office a free-standing, permanent agency with a triple mandate: a) Developing a strategy by which City agencies (including Public Utilities) can measure and commit to limiting their carbon footprint; b) Developing a set of best practices applicable to other local public agencies that receive City funding and that have substantial carbon impact, such as Richmond Public Schools; c) Engaging all residents and businesses in the City to drive down our carbon footprint. A well-funded Office could draft a strategic plan with specific action steps and timelines, with requirements for ongoing reporting to City Council on progress made.
The RVAGreen plan produced in the Jones administration is a great starting point, but to date it has not translated into concerted direct action or implementation of the many policy steps recommended in the report. Likewise the RVA2050 commitment articulated by Mayor Stoney requires substantial work to be translated into a concrete action guide.
A free-standing, well-funded office directly reporting to the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Operations day-to-day but with direct access and regular direct reporting to the Mayor and Chief Administrative Officer is essential if the City is to make marked progress on the plans that have been drawn up. (Currently the City’s Sustainability office has limited personnel and funding and is structurally located within the Department of Public Utilities.) When elected, I will urge the Mayor to include establishment of the Department of Sustainability in his FY 2021 budget proposal, and if it is not included in the budget proposal I will seek to build Council support for a budget amendment and corresponding legislation to create such an agency within the next year.
Since I have written extensively about issues related to urban design and climate change—see my 2010 book, Sprawl, Justice and Citizenship: The Civic Costs of the American Way of Life (Oxford University Press), as well as related research on greening American cities—let me make some additional high-level but critical observations.
First, we should always be thinking not just about the City’s carbon output but that of the regional metropolis as a whole. From a regional perspective, the most urgent priorities are a) encouraging more people to live in the central city where there are non-car transportation options b) encouraging greater density in both the city itself but also the immediately adjacent counties and c) establishing a robust, regional transportation network. A one-sided concern with limiting the City’s carbon output could create a perverse NIMBY-ism that inhibits development and growth in the City population, with the consequence that development takes place instead in the suburbs with detrimental net effect on our carbon output.
Second, we need major investments in multimodal transportation regionally and in the City. Richmond is still more car-dependent than many other cities; the frank reality is most residents with economic means drive to get places and don’t see existing public transit or biking as a realistic alternative. We need to continue to fill in holes in the route network and also maximize access to the BRT (which is fairly weak in the 5th District currently).
Third, we need to develop an energy strategy focused on solar, wind and renewable energy, as well as on energy reduction. A huge opportunity at the intersection of energy conservation and community wealth building is to invest in weatherization of older homes in Richmond and train and employ city residents to perform weatherization work. The RVAGreen plan specifies a number of additional steps and policy measures the City should consider.
Change of this magnitude does not and will not happen unless it’s prioritized by the Mayor and City administration. That’s why transitioning the existing Sustainability Office into an independent agency, that connects with but is independent from other City agencies and that issues regular public reports to City Council, is the critical first step. Simply put: the Sustainability Office should make bold, specific recommendations to the Mayor for action to implement its strategic vision; the Mayor and CAO should then vet the recommendations and order their implementation in a timely manner.
Based on my experience in City Hall I understand that bureaucratic structure matters. We need to have Sustainability treated as a core goal of city government, and that begins by affording it agency status.
Will you make significant investments to prepare our city for impacts of climate change?
Yes
Investments should include $21 million for stormwater management projects in 2020 and expanding Richmond’s tree canopy by 10% over the next five years. In addition, how will you work to ensure that the city’s zoning codes, capital projects, agency operating budgets, and other investments align to protect the James River from stormwater pollution, prepare neighborhoods to withstand extreme weather, and keep residents safe?
Responsibility for assuring that City projects, budgets and other investments support key sustainability goals would naturally fall under the Office of Sustainability described in detail above, working in concert with the Office of Budget and Strategic Planning and the Performance Management Office. A protocol needs to be created whereby agency actions potentially impacting sustainability goals are reviewed by the Office of Sustainability (in addition to another required environmental impact statements).
The detailed question asked concerning environmental impact is best answered by an empowered, professional staff, not by part-time City Council members with many responsibilities. This is not to denigrate Council’s role but rather recognize that it is absurd to expect improvements in this area without hiring and assigning professional to do complex analytic work of this kind (i.e. assuring alignment of all policies and initiatives with key goals).
So again my first priority as a Council member is to make sure we have that professional expertise in place through the Office of Sustainability, who can work on the “front end” of the annual budget cycle to scrutinize agency proposals before they get included in the Mayor’s budget proposal; once the Mayor’s budget proposal is released, I then will review in detail all plans and proposals at budget time to assure that no actions are being taken purposively or inadvertently that might threaten our sustainability goals.
I call this a two-ply approach to making sure our budgets are aligned with our priorities: assuring we have appropriate expertise on staff and that they are empowered to make sure budget proposals advance rather than undermine our sustainability goals, before they become part of the Mayor’s budget proposal; and then as a Council member doing an independent check and review of each project in light of the stated goals, while assertively asking questions about projects or plans that might negatively impact sustainability. Importantly, on Council I will also listen to the perspectives of informed advocates on sustainability issues in the community as I evaluate specific proposals.
Do you plan to commit to accelerating the implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
Yes
What does the Council need to do to ensure the James River Park System and broader riverfront gets the funding and attention it needs? What level of funding would you find acceptable to support the James River Park System and implementation of the Riverfront Plan?
I support adoption of the James River Park System Master Plan as well as unfinished elements of the Downtown Master Plan and Riverfront Plan. I endorse former Planning Director Rachel Flynn’s proposition that the most valuable land and property near our natural assets should belong to the public, and hence support moving quickly to acquire islands in the river that are now private property, as per the draft James River Park System Master Plan. I also strongly support investments to create outdoor educational centers within the James River Park System to facilitate increased access, usage, and appreciation of the James River by all Richmonders, especially youth.
I am not going to commit to a specific level of funding because these priorities need to be balanced year-by-year with our enormous needs for investments in schools, housing, and public infrastructure; and sometimes it’s better to complete a less-expensive project than to “half-do” a more expensive undertaking that you cannot fully fund. What I will commit to is that each succeeding budget year must show tangible progress towards adoption of some element of the Master Plans, and to demanding that the administration present a concrete timeline for fulfilling all aspects of the plans within the next ten years. I will move to amend any proposed capital budget that does not make a tangible investment in the Park System. My top prioritization would be towards acquisition of needed land to expand the park or protect it from intrusive development, followed closely by completion or enhancement of trails and outdoor education facilities. I will also support Friends of James River Park in any capacity requested to assist with fundraising efforts to enhance the City’s investment in the park.
It’s also important not to neglect the operating budget. James River Park System is chronically under-staffed relative to its mission and importance, and finding funds for additional positions could lead to tangible improvements in programming and user experience nearly immediately.
Do you plan to implement the Richmond 300 Master Plan?
Yes
Have you attended any of the meetings either as a member of the public or an Advisory Council/Workgroup member? Do you believe Council is entitled to make substantive changes to the plan before adopting it? What three land use or housing policies would you like to see come out of the master planning process?
I attended initial meetings of the Richmond 300 process while still a staff member in the Mayor’s Office, and I have reviewed the Draft Strategies document and associated maps. It is a terrific document and I strongly endorse its general principles. I believe City Council should review the plan carefully and as needed make friendly amendments consistent with the spirit and purposes of the overall plan. I do not think Council should try to rewrite the plan or compromise key elements of the plan.
We need numerous land use and housing policies appropriate for a growing city: among these I would prioritize a commitment to requiring affordable housing in all future housing developments, a major investment in the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, the Maggie L. Walker Community Land Trust, and other tools aimed at creating more affordable housing and countering gentrification, and a shift towards transit-oriented development (design of places oriented around transit and pedestrian use) and away from surface parking lots and other car-centered land uses. I also support deliberate preservation and expansion of open public space even as the City continues to growth.
I believe the proposal to re-organize land use zoning into ten clear categories makes sense, and will facilitate the need to promote greater population density as our City grows. Once Richmond 300 has been ratified by Council, I will support starting implementation of the new master plan with this initial step. Full implementation of the plan’s recommendations over the next decade would have a dramatic, positive impact on our City with immediate and long-term benefits.
Do you support the increased density of Richmond’s housing stock?
Yes
Richmond was more dense in 1950 than it is today. Increased density cuts housing costs for residents, preserves the City’s limited greenspace, and saves the City money on providing essential services. What changes, either administratively or via ordinance, can the City make to facilitate dense residential development? How do we ensure a diversity of housing stock that is accessible to Richmonders at all income levels?
In 2010 I published a major critique of suburban sprawl in the United States, Sprawl, Justice and Citizenship: The Civic Cost of the American Way of Life (Oxford University Press) that is considered one of the most authoritative assessments of sprawl in print; one academic reviewer wrote “This is a definitive analysis of sprawl and should be widely read by urbanists of all stripes.” I state this as background to indicate a) I have been thinking about these issues for a long time and b) I strongly support effort to increase population and therefore density herein Richmond.
We need a comprehensive housing plan appropriate for a growing city, aimed both at facilitating growth and improving affordability. That strategy should encompass construction of new units at all income levels, moving vacant properties back on the tax rolls (with a development agreement), judicious use of tax credits for restoration, greater use of the Affordable Housing Trust fund, greater use of the Maggie L. Walker Community Land Trust, and plans to revitalize or re-develop public housing communities without displacing residents and one-for-one replacement of all affected units. It also must involve improvements in permitting processes, promoting more high-density development through zoning modifications, making inclusion of affordable housing mandatory in new developments, and consideration of entirely new strategies such as promoting and supporting a “tiny house” sector in Richmond. Because housing affordability is a function of income as well as housing cost, we also must boost investment in strategies to help more residents bolster their incomes such as the workforce programs of the Office of Community Wealth Building.
Continued investments in public transportation—including attention to “feeder routes” and everyday amenities such as bus stop shelters—must also be part of this strategy.
It’s important to understand that the conversation around growth in Richmond is not simply a planning or land use conversation. It is also centrally related to overall quality-of-life in the City and in particular the performance of our public schools. Strengthening public education is the key to attracting and retaining new families, thereby strengthening the tax base and our ability to invest in education and other needs.
The need for a comprehensive housing strategy (with suitable investments) cannot be pitted against the need for comprehensive improvement in our public schools; it’s not either/or, it must be both/and.
Do you support the creation and implementation of anti-displacement policies?
Yes
What kind of policy you would seek to help maintain Richmond’s economic and racial diversity? Are there existing programs that are underutilized, for example the Real Estate Tax Relief Program, that could be leveraged more effectively? Would you support a longtime owner occupant program similar to Philadelphia’s?
The first part of this question is phrased a little oddly: we need an economically diverse city, but not a city that’s diverse in its current form, with 25% of residents below the poverty line. We need an economically thriving city in which as few residents as possible are below the federal poverty line and there is a range of incomes well above that line. That cannot mean displacement of current low-income residents; rather it must mean assisting thousands of current residents to actually grow their incomes and transition from earning to survive to earning to build wealth. So we need to invest in workforce development and other strategies with potential to connect city residents to economic opportunity and higher incomes.
We also need specific initiatives to offset gentrification, including dramatic expansion of the Maggie L. Walker Community Land Trust to keep a significant proportion of housing permanently affordable, as well as increased use of the existing Real Estate Tax Relief Program. City agencies and community organizations should conduct a major public outreach campaign to encourage use of the Real Estate Tax Relief Program by eligible residents; I will gladly participate in and help promote such campaigns as a City Council member. More nuanced taxation tools that exempt long-time homeowners and/or persons on fixed incomes from the impact of increased property valuations also are essential tools. The Philadelphia program referenced is probably actually too weak as it focuses on households experiencing a 50% one-year increase in assessments; in Richmond I would recommend setting the threshold for relief at a lower percentage (such as 20%).
Support diversity and inclusion training and trauma informed practices among all public safety personnel.
Yes
With the hiring of a new Police Chief and several staffing transitions, we believe it is critical for public safety personnel to develop authentic relationships with the communities they serve. Where does this rank on your list of public safety priorities? How will we ensure that we are holding our law enforcement more accountable and creating more transparency?
The Police developing authentic relationships with the communities they serve ranks at the very top of public safety priorities, because trust between public safety officials and the public is the foundation of successfully preventing and solving crimes. We want a virtuous cycle in which strong relationships produce greater trust, helping to solve more crimes committed (especially major crimes), and thereby deterring future crime. I believe Richmond Police Department does many positive things in the community and should be encouraged to build on successful partnerships like the RVA League for Safer Streets basketball program. I also strongly support the “Beyond Containment” initiative of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office which seeks to push policy and practice more in the direction of addressing root causes of crime on the front end. Workforce development programs of the Office of Community Wealth Building and other initiatives aimed at adults—especially younger adults not working full-time—have a vital role play in this effort.
I also support establishment of a Civilian Review Board for the Police Department with the capacity to review alleged incidents of police misconduct and issue advisory recommendations as to appropriate action. I do not think this step needs to be framed or understood as adversarial to the Police Department or its officers, but rather as a necessary component of building long-term trust in the community and helping the Police Department better fulfill its mission. Richmond should study the model adopted recently in Charlottesville as well as other national precedents to develop an effective Civilian Review Board.
Support the funding priorities in the budget that will attract and retain bilingual government employees.
Yes
Richmond’s Latin-x population continues to increase with the US Census Bureau estimating a 12% increase over the last eight years. This trend is projected to steadily rise. How will you advocate for a workforce that is equipped to provide access to city services for the Latin-x population? How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every Latin-x student has access to quality education?
We need to take several steps in this area. First, the Office of Multicultural Affairs within Human Services is understaffed and needs to be expanded so it has more capacity to serve Latin-x residents and others. Second, all Human Services agencies need to have multiple bilingual staff members. Third, the City administration and City Council should invest in translation services for all public meetings as well as key public documents.
The RPS Strategic Plan identifies support for the Latin-x population as a priority (see for instance action item 1.6) and I will support its full implementation. The RVA Education Compact should be the vehicle by which City Council can receive regular updates on RPS’s progress and challenges in implementing identified action steps. Within the 5th District, we have an urgent need to rebuild George Wythe High School as soon as possible as a model community school with a strong emphasis on support for Latin-x students and engagement with Latin-x families through on-site services as well as on-site recreational facilities.
Support data sharing and increased public access to the outcomes and performance measures for all agencies receiving non-departmental funding.
Yes
How should we hold non-departmental funding recipients accountable for quality services? What data sharing policies would you implement to increase public awareness of these services and resources? How would you ensure that recipients are making an impact in the City?
While serving in the Mayor’s Office in 2017 I re-wrote the non-departmental grant application, in conjunction with Budget & Strategic Planning staff, for the FY 2018/19 budget process. The intent was to compel applicants to explain clearly how their requested grants and resultant programming would contribute to the city’s strategic goals related to education, housing, and health and human services. The Office of the DCAO for Human Services is responsible for oversight of most grants in this category; the goal should be able to show how the non-departmental grants enhance the services offered by City government and fit into a collective strategic plan.
In the upcoming FY 2020 budget process the City administration should require all recipients of grants in the past two years to make a thorough report on progress and accomplishments resulting from funds received. I would also recommend that the City administration as it proposes the next budget include explicit narrative regarding the non-departmental sector so the public can more clearly see why the different grants are recommended and how they fit into a strategic plan.
City funds are scarce and it should be understood that organizations must have a compelling case for accessing grant funds: that they are providing a vital service to the City residents that is not offered by City agencies or is qualitatively different than services offered by City agencies; that these services contribute to the City’s strategic goals; and that the organization has the capacity to deliver the planned services. Going forward the City administration in its budget proposal must verify that is the case for all agencies recommended for funding.
Failure to do so creates three problems: a) Potentially using money that under-resourced agencies badly need to support ineffective programming b) Creating the impression that the grants are politically motivated rather than part of a strategic partnership between city government and the nonprofit sectors c) Open Council members to pressure to fund programs or organizations that have not been funded.
We must also hold quasi-governmental organizations such as GRTC that receive non-departmental grant funding to high accountability standards. In the case of GRTC, a new Department of Transportation (see below) should take as one of its major responsibilities ongoing communication with GRTC, assuring accountability for funds disbursed, and discussing future plans. Human Services should be taking a similar role with respect to non-City agencies receiving City funding such as Richmond City Health District and Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, and the Department of Housing and Community Development should do the same with respect to RRHA.
Commit to $1 million per year of City funding for pedestrian and bicycle improvements.
Yes
Establishing safe and accessible places for people to bike and walk will require capital funding for infrastructure. Where, specifically, would you invest in better pedestrian and bike infrastructure? What do you see as the major safety and mobility challenges facing pedestrians and people on bikes as they move around the 5th District?
We need to invest in improved sidewalks and bike lanes throughout the 5th District, guided by the existing Bicycle Master Plan. Current priorities in or adjoining the 5th District identified by the Department of Public Works include a bicycle corridor on Roanoke Street and painting identified bike lanes on Westover Hills Boulevard. My goal on City Council will be to assure that tangible progress is being made in the form of new capital projects or completion of existing projects to support bike and pedestrian infrastructure within the 5th District each and every year.
Ongoing public education aimed at motorists to promote safety and respect of bicyclists and pedestrians is an urgent need, as are other steps related to implementing Vision Zero.
Implement and support the legislative and budget components of the Vision Zero action plan.
Yes
Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, and equitable mobility for all. In March 2016, Richmond City Council passed a Vision Zero Resolution (RES. 2016-R011) that “supports the development of a Vision Zero program for the City of Richmond with the goal of reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries in road traffic to zero by the year 2030,” and in October 2017 Mayor Stoney signed a commitment to make Richmond a Vision Zero city. The City’s Vision Zero Action Plan includes legislative and budget actions that City Council could pass today. If elected to City Council, which of those would you prioritize and why?
I am prepared and eager to champion the Project Zero vision as aggressively as possible if elected to represent the 5th District, in cooperation with Council colleagues. I will support concrete steps such as allocating more resources to enforce speed limits, adopting anti-distraction legislation, adding more crosswalks and where needed more traffic lights, identifying and mitigating dangerous intersections, assuring construction projects don’t create dangerous situations, aggressive public service announcements and signage to promote traffic safety., and more.
I also will champion and work with any neighborhood that wishes to become an enhanced penalty speed zone or to establish speed tables or other mechanisms to create safer streets—and assure that approved speed tables are fully funded. We need to pay special attention to streets around our schools, especially those (like Patrick Henry) on or near high traffic volume streets, to be sure that all kids and families can get where they need to go safely at all times.
We need to fund and implement the administrative and policy components of the Vision Zero plan, but there is no substitute for cultural change. Cultural change means driving within the speed limit, putting away the distractions, being alert to pedestrians and vehicles at every moment, and practicing defensive driving. I look forward to working with residents and community organizations in the 5th District to bring about the changed laws and changed habits needed to make the loss of life on our streets a thing of the past.
Establish and fund a dedicated Richmond Department of Transportation.
Yes
As Richmond continues to grow, so will the challenge of how to move more residents and visitors within the city limits by walking, biking, transit, car-share, driving, and future transportation options. How can the City overcome its current disconnected planning process and begin to centrally plan, coordinate, and build multimodal transportation projects?
We urgently need a Department of Transportation led by a director oriented towards multimodal transportation in City Hall. The new department needs to integrate staff working on transportation-related issues currently dispersed in different departments, and it needs to lead the City’s relationship with GRTC. I saw firsthand the challenges our current structure posed for project management of GRTC Pulse. The idea of creating a Department of Transportation has been discussed inside the administration; I will support moving it forward should it be proposed this year.
Increase GRTC’s annual operating funding by $2 million.
Yes
Last year, Richmond and Henrico launched the region’s first bus rapid transit line and entirely redesigned their portions of the bus network. GRTC routes #2, #5, #20, and #78 all operate in the 5th District. In your view, how could bus service be improved—either in the 5th District or elsewhere—to help residents of the 5th?
My top three transportation priorities for the 5th District:
- Continued progress towards development of a regional transit system using primarily county and state resources – this is included in an important set of priorities that I helped established and outline in the Mayor’s Anti-Poverty Commission Report (which I authored). Regional transportation is essential to better connect all residents to job opportunities throughout our region. Richmond currently ranks near the bottom of “Top 100” metropolitan areas in job accessibility via transit – development of such a system would be transformative for the 5th District and the entire city.
- More frequent service within the 5th District to connect residents to emerging employment opportunities at or near Richmond Marine Terminal (Port of Richmond) and to connect residents more directly to the GRTC Pulse. Unfortunately, there is currently no direct service connecting Byrd Park, Randolph and Maymont residents to the Pulse via north-south arteries like Robinson Street … this needs to change! Service along Robinson Street has been listed as a priority by the Richmond 300 “Future Connections” map.
- Install shelters at bus stops wherever feasible to provide bus riders with shade, seating, and protection from the elements.
More generally, on City Council I will take my guidance from the Richmond 300 Plan as well as recommendations from the envisioned Department of Transportation, community advocates, and GRTC itself as we move forward with continual improvement and expansion of service over the next decade.
Increase access to community and school based mental health services.
Yes
This year, the Virginia General Assembly increased state funding to support guidance counselors in school. Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan also includes a goal of increasing the number of school counselors by 25%. What specifically will you do to support RPS’ in their goal and to make sure Richmond’s youth have access to mental health services?
I applaud RPS’s plan to increase the number of school counselors significantly, and I plan as a member of Council to support full funding of the RPS strategic plan including funding for school counselors. I also will support efforts to a) where appropriate co-locate mental health and other services within school buildings b) through the Education Compact, encourage the Children’s Cabinet to develop a comprehensive plan to connect children in need to available and appropriate resources, as well as identify and advocate for additional resources.
I already have experience getting more resources into the counseling space. As Director of the Office of Community Wealth Building I spearheaded the collaboration process between RPS, the City, RPS Education Foundation and community stakeholders which led to the creation of the successful RVA Future Centers in all five comprehensive high schools, to augment the counseling capacity of RPS and assure students receive targeted support in applying for college, seeking financial aid, and other concrete steps to plan for life after high school. In the process I learned firsthand from RPS staff the need for more counseling staff capacity to meet the needs of students. We successfully obtained City funding for this initiative, now in its fifth year of operation.
Cultivate a workforce development program for high school students.
Yes
Will you advocate for a cross boundary, coordinated approach to Out of School Time for high school students that ties economic development to apprenticeships, mentorships, and partnerships in collaboration with the region’s colleges? In addition, how do you envision engaging businesses in your district to participate in programs like this?
I strongly support efforts in this area, and again have extensive experience. In 2014 as co-chair of the Maggie L. Walker Initiative I personally advocated for City support ($350,000 a year initially) for NextUp RVA, which has grown in impact as a coordinator of quality out-of-school time programming in Richmond. I also in 2017 while in the Mayor’s Office convened an out-of-school time working group involving City providers and key nonprofit leaders which led to public-private funding for out-of-school time expansion in the FY 19 budget. I strongly support a focus on high school students through expansion of the Mayor’s Youth Academy (which provides paid summertime opportunities for youth), using the RVA Future Center to connect high school students to vocational training opportunities, and working towards assuring all graduating RPS students have a “fourteenth” year: either enrollment in college or enrollment in an apprenticeship or vocational training program. Again, a collaboration of this kind should be stewarded through the Education Compact.
I will encourage 5th District businesses to participate in existing programs such as the Mayor’s Youth Academy as partners committed to hiring youth in summertime, and also challenge our universities and larger businesses to provide more pathways to employment for local youth. The Mayor’s Youth Academy and Office of Community Wealth Building’s partnership with Capital One to provide trainings leading to full-time employment at a high wage to recent high school graduates is a good model to build upon.
Increase the number of early education opportunities and provide information on existing programs.
Yes
Over 9,500 children in Richmond under the age of five, live at or below 200% of the federal poverty level; however, there are only 3,500 seats in both private and public early education centers in the city. What can City Council do to create more early educational opportunities for our most vulnerable children?
I worked on this issue extensively as Director of the Office of Community Wealth Building; in 2015, our staff and I wrote and won a two-year, $300,000 grant from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to examine Richmond’s early childhood system, interview low-income residents about early childhood issues, and conduct a pilot program in Gilpin Court. The central recommendation of the final grant report authored by Dr. Meg Pienkowski (now at Smart Beginnings), to create an Office responsible for coordinating early childhood programming and develop and lead implementation of an ongoing plan to expand and implement resources in this area, remains to be implemented. These issues are currently being examined by the Children’s Cabinet, and I am hopeful that it will be included in the FY 2021 mayoral budget proposal, as an Office located within Human Services. This needs to happen immediately and I will strongly support it.
I am delighted that the RPS strategic plan calls for enrolling 3 year olds in preschool over the next several years, and will support this effort. We also need to improve outreach efforts to be certain all eligible 4 year olds are attending pre-school.
To increase the overall number of slots we will need a multi-pronged effort involving more state and local funding, changes in the reimbursement formulas to allow more nonprofit partners to be viable, working with small-scale providers to promote quality, and potentially launching new social enterprises focused on providing quality care for young children. Providing quality child care options in low-income communities will allow parents to more easily find and maintain employment arrangements that work, and should also be a source of employment itself for neighborhood residents. I believe the new Early Childhood Office should coordinate with the Office of Community Wealth Building and other partners to create a quality child care model targeted on low-income parents of very young children.
We also need to undertake a massive parent and community education effort on the importance of early childhood development to promote best practices (like reading to kids) inside families and other spaces where kids’ brains are developing. The RVA Basics program underway in Chesterfield (based on Boston Basics) is a promising model, as is the RVA Reads program now in Pre-K centers citywide, which we launched in 2015 as a partnership between RPS, Richmond Public Library, and the Office of Community Wealth Building.
Fund Richmond Public Schools’ strategic plan.
Yes
Schools are the heart and soul of our neighborhoods. How do you propose Council should work with RPS and the School Board to ensure that every student has access to a high quality education and safe facilities to learn in? What funding streams would you like to see leveraged to support RPS’ strategic plan? How can Council support RPS’ efforts to streamline their budget?
While serving in the Mayor’s Office I orchestrated adoption of the RVA Education Compact, which requires Council, School Board and Mayor to meet on a quarterly basis and also requires RPS and various City agencies and community advocates to meet together (the Children’s Cabinet). One major intent behind the Compact is to promote a “Whole Child” approach that recognizes that we must address family and community issues impacting children at the same time we invest in schools if we are to making breakthrough progress in a school system with 40% child poverty. The Compact has absolutely improved communication and the relationship between RPS and the Mayor’s Office, but more work attention needs to be done to realize the goal of having a holistic, community-wide plan to support children and families inside and outside the classroom, a plan that encompasses RPS, the city agencies, non-departmental grant partners, and others. I will diligently support the Compact as a member of Council, and attend all meetings prepared to ask key questions of both the City administration and RPS.
The other major intent behind the Compact was to improve dialogue around the annual budget process. This improved communication led to the administration fully funding schools in the most recent introduced budget, which represents significant progress. Going forward the budget conversation is likely to get even more challenging as the RPS Strategic Plan calls for additional investment, year-by-year. We need a coordinated effort to advocate for more RPS funding at the state level.
