Question and Answer
Candidate's responses are published as submitted, without edits.
Root Causes: Often, studies tend to focus on the individual characteristics of offenders, while neglecting ethnic and racial differences associated with neighborhood contexts...like resource scarcity, redlining practices, disparate treatment in legal settings, and the school-to-prison pipeline. Can you talk about the root causes you've identified as the precipitators of violence in our region?
Violence in our region stems from systemic issues like lack of resources, redlining, and unequal legal treatment. These factors, including the school-to-prison pipeline, have trapped communities in a cycle of disadvantage. We need to address these root causes by creating opportunities, ensuring fair treatment, and supporting our communities to break the cycle.
Systemic Solutions: Research tells us that race or ethnicity are not violence indicators. They are markers highlighting external social contexts differentially allocated by racial, ethnic, and economic status. Segregation by these social contexts disproportionately exposes members of these racial, ethnic, and lower socioeconomic groups to key violence-inducing or violence-protecting conditions. What are some systemic solutions that will consider these factors?
We need to tackle the social issues that put certain communities at risk. That means making sure everyone has access to good schools, affordable housing, and fair job opportunities, while also fixing our justice system to treat everyone equally. By addressing these inequalities, we can make Richmond safer for everyone.
Immediate Solutions: Motions, Resolutions, Ordinances, Referrals, Deferrals - and all policy changes can take time. What immediate solutions do you propose that will invite our neighbors and your constituents across Richmond to co-create and jointly implement efforts to change the trajectory of violence in Richmond?
We need to tackle the social issues that put certain communities at risk. That means making sure everyone has access to good schools, affordable housing, and fair job opportunities, while also fixing our justice system to treat everyone equally. By addressing these inequalities, we can make Richmond safer for everyone.
Climate Policy: After nearly 6 years of community engagement and climate analysis, the RVAgreen 2050 Climate Equity Action Plan was adopted in early 2023 as the City of Richmond’s official sustainability plan. As Mayor, will you fully execute this plan and seek to exceed the goals set out with respect to carbon pollution reduction and community climate resilience?
It's Complicated
Tell us more: As Richmond makes progress, what is the City getting right and what actions will you as the next Mayor take to overcome any challenges?
It's complicated because while Richmond has made significant progress in areas like community engagement and some infrastructure improvements, there are still challenges that need to be addressed. The city has done well in starting important conversations around equity and sustainability, but the implementation of these ideas hasn't always reached everyone equally. As mayor, I'll focus on ensuring that our progress benefits all residents, especially those in underserved communities. Overcoming these challenges will require a balanced approach strengthening what's working while addressing gaps in areas like affordable housing, public safety, and education. It's about making sure that as we move forward, so no one is left behind.
Environmental Justice: Richmond has just begun to repair some of the lasting harms of racially motivated redlining, highway construction, and disinvestment in low-income and Black and African American communities. Today, models like the City of Richmond Climate Equity Index, the Trust for Public Land ParkScore, and the White House’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool show disparities across neighborhoods in community resources, environmental quality, health outcomes, and economic opportunity. Do you see a relationship between climate action, poverty, and justice in Richmond?
Yes
Tell us more: If so, how would you describe this relationship and what actions, policy-related or otherwise, do you feel are necessary to address these issues?
Yes, there’s a strong link between climate action, poverty, and justice in Richmond. The communities that have faced the most neglect often low-income and Black neighborhoods are also the ones hit hardest by environmental issues. Tackling climate change isn’t just about the environment; it’s about righting those wrongs and making sure all neighborhoods have a fair shot. As mayor, I’ll work to make sure our climate efforts also bring more equity and opportunity to everyone.
Equitable Energy Transition: Richmond Gas Works is owned and operated by the City of Richmond. The Department of Public Utilities is facing financial and logistical challenges maintaining the network of 100-year-old gas pipes. The aging system has had nearly a thousand known gas leaks, with each jeopardizing public safety and the health of local residents. When leaked, methane is a potent climate pollutant that has a significant impact on climate change. When burned indoors in stoves and heaters, people can be exposed to fumes containing carcinogens like benzene, formaldehyde, and nitrogen oxides. If elected, would you work to develop a plan to phase out Richmond Gas Works in a financially responsible manner?
It's Complicated
Tell us more: How can low and median income households be protected and supported throughout an energy transition? *
If elected, I understand the serious concerns about Richmond Virginia Gas Works, especially with the aging infrastructure and the risks it poses to our community. I believe we need a balanced and thoughtful approach to transitioning away from this outdated system. I’m committed to exploring how we can phase out Richmond Gas Works in a way that’s safe and financially responsible. This means finding cleaner, safer alternatives without putting an undue financial burden on our residents. Additionally, I will prioritize implementing a strict methane regulation system to reduce emissions during the transition. We’ll need to involve the community in these decisions, ensuring transparency every step of the way. This is about protecting both our environment and our pocketbooks
What is your long-term vision for housing in our city and how do you plan to achieve it during your tenure as mayor?
My long-term vision for housing in Richmond is to ensure that everyone has access to true affordable housing, homes that people can actually afford without sacrificing other basic needs. This includes building more affordable units, preserving existing ones, and preventing displacement in our communities. I’m especially committed to protecting our seniors and those on fixed incomes, ensuring they can remain in their homes without being pushed out due to rising costs. Additionally, I want to help lower-income residents achieve sustainable housing through job placement, workforce development, and other supportive programs that provide economic stability. I plan to work closely with local developers, nonprofits, and community organizations to create housing solutions that reflect the needs of all Richmond residents. As mayor, I'll push for policies that increase affordable housing options, protect renters, and ensure that Richmond remains a place where everyone, regardless of income, can live securely and with dignity.
Tell us more: How will you measure the success of your housing policies and initiatives, and what benchmarks will you use to track progress?
I'll measure the success of my housing policies by looking at how many residents can access true affordable housing without being financially strained. Key benchmarks will include the number of new affordable units built, the preservation of existing affordable housing, a decrease in eviction rates, and an increase in homeownership, especially among first-time buyers. I’ll also track how well we’re preventing displacement in vulnerable neighborhoods. Regular community feedback will be essential to ensure that our efforts are truly meeting the needs of Richmond residents.
How do you define affordable housing
I define affordable housing as housing that allows people to live comfortably without sacrificing their basic needs. It means rent or mortgage payments that don't exceed 35% of a household’s annual income, ensuring that families can afford essentials like food, healthcare, and education. True affordable housing should be accessible to all income levels, offering stability and the opportunity to build a better future.
In your opinion, what role does housing (at all income levels) play in our city, region, and state economy?
Housing at all income levels is the backbone of our city, region, and state economy. It’s not just about providing shelter; it’s about creating stability, fostering community, and driving economic growth. Affordable housing, in particular, allows families to thrive without sacrificing their basic needs, which in turn boosts local businesses, supports job growth, and strengthens our neighborhoods. By ensuring a mix of housing options, we can create a more resilient and inclusive economy that benefits everyone.
Leadership in Transportation: Following decades of planning around primarily one mode of transportation - vehicles - residents and businesses have increasingly called upon Richmond leadership to retool its transportation system to work for many ways of getting around, including walking, biking, public transportation, rideshare, bike share, scooters, and beyond. Do you support expanding funding and implementation of a multi-modal transportation system in Richmond that prioritizes safe, walkable, and bikeable streets and frequent and far reaching public transit?
It's Complicated
Tell us more: How will you shape Richmond city government into a national leader in multi-modal transportation?
I'll shape Richmond city government into a national leader in multi-modal transportation by prioritizing investment in safe, walkable, and bikeable streets, and by expanding our public transit options. This means securing funding for infrastructure improvements, integrating technology for smarter transit solutions, and fostering partnerships with local and national stakeholders. I’ll also work closely with community members to ensure that our transportation system meets the needs of all residents. By setting clear goals and tracking our progress, we can make Richmond a model for sustainable and inclusive transportation.
Equitable Transportation Funding: Richmond has a history of inequitable investment in sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes, and bus stops. Zero fare GRTC Bus service has resulted in a ridership boom, lowering barriers to mobility and increasing access to jobs, health care, and schools. Yet, the state grant for zero fare is ending soon, leaving a funding gap. Many low-income Richmonders rely on equitable transportation solutions, and they need consistent leadership to deliver equitable transportation policies and programs. As mayor, will you prioritize equity in funding and implementation of transportation projects?
Yes
Tell us more: What are 3 actions you will take to prioritize equitable transportation?
To prioritize equitable transportation, I will first work to secure long-term funding for zero fare bus service and other essential transit projects, ensuring that all residents have access to affordable and reliable transportation. Additionally, I’ll focus on investing in underserved neighborhoods by building and improving sidewalks, crosswalks, and bike lanes, making sure everyone can safely walk, bike, or use public transit. Finally, I’ll establish a dedicated task force to engage directly with residents, especially those in low-income areas, to ensure that our transportation projects truly meet their needs and address their concerns.
Transportation Infrastructure: The Richmond region has the opportunity to invest in several regional infrastructure projects that will transform our transportation systems – from the development of the seven-locality Fall Line trail, to the North-South Pulse bus-rapid transit expansion, to the Transforming Rail in Virginia program, to the replacement of the 111-year-old Mayo Bridge. With hundreds of millions of dollars in local, regional, and statewide funding on the line, Richmond’s mayor needs to work with neighboring counties on regionally important transportation projects. Will you ensure that Richmond takes a leading role in securing regional transportation funding?
Yes
Tell us more: What projects will you prioritize while leveraging federal, state, and regional grant funding?
I will prioritize projects that have the greatest impact on improving connectivity, safety, and accessibility for all Richmond residents. This includes the expansion of the Pulse bus-rapid transit system, the development of the Fall Line trail, and the replacement of the Mayo Bridge. These projects not only enhance our transportation infrastructure but also promote economic growth and environmental sustainability. Leveraging federal, state, and regional grant funding, I’ll ensure these initiatives are fully supported and delivered efficiently to benefit our entire community.
Emerging Adults: What kind of future do you envision for young people coming out of school today and transitioning to adulthood? What are your priorities to ensure they are set up for success?
I envision a future where young people in Richmond have every opportunity to succeed, no matter their background. My priorities include expanding access to quality education, including vocational training and apprenticeships, to prepare them for the workforce. I’ll also focus on creating more job opportunities, particularly in emerging industries, and ensuring affordable housing options so they can build their futures here in Richmond. By providing strong support systems and resources, we can set our young people up for success as they transition into adulthood.
Youth Centered Question: As students, so much of our lives revolve around school; because of this, the lingering fear and dread we face when doing basic everyday things in school is more than just debilitating. Everyday we fear that while doing our school work or walking down the road, a senseless act of gun violence will take our life. Virginia and Richmond specifically needs to do better, not just for the current teenagers directly affected by the gun violence, but for the small children who grow up and see the same things we do, with little to no explanation or understanding of why. We see what happens in our neighborhoods; in our state; in our country as a whole. We need change but we have to start here, at home. We need you to promise to help us make that change. Tell us your plan and overall strategy for addressing gun violence, including but not limited to, allocating funds and leveraging resources to support violence prevention, intervention, and crisis response?
I hear you, and I promise to help make that change. As someone who grew up in Richmond and has seen firsthand the impact of violence in our communities, I’m committed to addressing gun violence with a comprehensive approach. My plan includes allocating funds to support violence prevention programs in schools and neighborhoods, investing in mental health services, and strengthening community partnerships for intervention and crisis response. I’ll also work to ensure that our schools are safe spaces where students can focus on learning without fear. Together, we can create a Richmond where everyone, especially our young people, can feel safe and secure.
Family Centered Question: Access to year-round high-quality childcare, education, afterschool and summertime activities, and family-oriented community resources are key priorities voiced by families in our community. How do you propose the Mayor’s Administration and Council should work to ensure that every child (birth – 18) has access to high-quality care, education, wraparound services, and safe spaces to thrive in?
As mayor, I will work closely with the City Council and the School Board to ensure that every child in Richmond has access to the high-quality care, education, and services they deserve. This means increasing funding for early childhood education and expanding access to affordable childcare. I’ll also prioritize partnerships with the school board, and local organizations to provide robust afterschool and summer programs that keep kids engaged and safe. Additionally, I’ll push for more wraparound services that support families, including mental health resources, tutoring, and safe community spaces. By working collaboratively with the School Board, we can ensure that our educational initiatives are aligned and effective. Together, we can create a Richmond where every child has the support they need to grow and succeed.