We need to change mindsets and hold people accountable - parents, everyone. That’s the first place we start. We also need to concentrate our efforts on high-crime and high-risk areas, recognizing that these communities have been disproportionately affected by a lack of resources and opportunities. It’s crucial to leverage more dollars specifically to fight violence and crime. This includes providing more officers who are not just enforcers of the law but also partners in the community. Getting back to neighborhood-oriented policing and fostering strong police-community relationships is essential. This approach can help build trust and cooperation between residents and law enforcement. Opening up neighborhood storefronts can create accessible spaces where community members can interact with officers, report issues, and seek assistance. Another critical aspect is tackling gun violence. Collaborating with the ATF to address firearms trafficking and remove illegal guns from our streets is a priority. This, combined with community policing, can make a significant impact. Investing in job training programs for teenagers and others is another essential strategy. By providing viable alternatives to crime, we can steer individuals towards productive and fulfilling paths. These programs can empower residents with the skills they need to secure good jobs and build stable futures. In addition, we need to acknowledge and address the systemic issues that contribute to violence, such as resource scarcity, redlining practices, and disparate treatment in legal settings. These factors have historically marginalized certain communities, contributing to a cycle of poverty and crime. The school-to-prison pipeline, in particular, is a devastating reality that must be dismantled. Ensuring equitable treatment in education and legal systems is crucial for breaking this cycle. Focusing on neighborhoods that are suffering the most is essential. Every neighborhood deserves to be safe, and every resident deserves the peace of mind that comes with living in a secure environment. By addressing these root causes and investing in community-oriented solutions, we can create a safer, more equitable region for everyone.

Systemic solutions to address violence must tackle the underlying social contexts and structural inequities that disproportionately impact racial, ethnic, and lower socioeconomic groups. Here are some key approaches: 1. Economic empowerment to implement policies that promote job creation, fair wages, and economic opportunities in underserved communities. This includes investing in small businesses, providing access to capital, and supporting workforce development programs. 2. Education reform to ensure equitable access to quality education, including early childhood education, improved school funding, and resources for schools in marginalized communities. Programs that address educational disparities can reduce long-term socioeconomic inequalities. 3. Affordable housing to increase the availability of affordable housing and prevent displacement through rent control policies, housing subsidies, and incentives for developing low-income housing. Stable housing is crucial for reducing stress and fostering community stability. 4. Healthcare access to expand access to comprehensive healthcare, including mental health services, for all communities. Addressing health disparities can mitigate some of the stressors that contribute to violence. 5. Community policing and criminal justice reform to promote community policing strategies that build trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Additionally, reform the criminal justice system to address racial biases, reduce mass incarceration, and support reentry programs for formerly incarcerated individuals. 6. Youth and community programs to invest  in after-school programs, mentorship initiatives, and recreational facilities that provide safe spaces and constructive activities for young people. Such programs can prevent youth from engaging in violent behavior. 7. Addressing segregation by developing policies to reduce residential segregation by encouraging mixed-income housing developments and investing in public transportation that connects segregated neighborhoods to economic opportunities. 8. Public health approach to treat violence as a public health issue by implementing violence prevention programs that address root causes, such as poverty, trauma, and substance abuse. This includes data-driven strategies to identify and support at-risk individuals and communities.

The question of how to change the trajectory of violence in Richmond is vital to me and to the future of our community. As a legislator, I believe that we have the power to make a real difference. Our legislative authority allows us to create and implement policies that can transform our neighborhoods and improve the lives of our residents. We have identified the issues time and time again—poverty, lack of opportunity, inadequate education, and systemic injustice. The data is clear, and we don't need more studies or reports to tell us what we already know. What we need is action, and we need it now. Immediate solutions must focus on inviting our neighbors and constituents to co-create and jointly implement efforts to reduce violence. This means fostering strong community partnerships and investing in grassroots initiatives that are already making a difference. We can support community policing programs that build trust between law enforcement and residents, create job training and placement programs to provide opportunities for our youth, and invest in mental health and addiction services to address the root causes of violence. By empowering community leaders and organizations, we can create a network of support that addresses violence from multiple angles. It's about bringing everyone to the table—residents, businesses, faith groups, and law enforcement—to work together in building a safer, more just Richmond. As your next city council representative, I am committed to moving beyond the delays in motions, resolutions, and ordinances and also the issues with referrals, and deferrals. We need concrete actions that deliver immediate results. Together, we can create a comprehensive approach to violence prevention that is rooted in community involvement and driven by a shared vision for a better Richmond. We can't afford to wait any longer—it's time to act and make our city a safer place for everyone.

Yes

This is a layered question. What the City is Getting Right — 1. Sustainability Initiatives - the city has made strides in implementing sustainability initiatives, such as the RVA Green 2050 plan, which aims for the city to be carbon neutral by 2050. But it’s still sitting on the shelf with no action or very little to make it happen. 2. Public Transit Improvements - The city has expanded and improved its public transit options, such as the Pulse bus rapid transit system. This helps reduce carbon emissions by providing a reliable alternative to car travel. 3. Green Infrastructure - the city has invested in green infrastructure, such as rain gardens and green roofs, which help manage stormwater runoff and reduce urban heat island effects. These projects also enhance urban green spaces, contributing to improved air quality and community well-being. 4. Renewable Energy Adoption - There has been a push towards renewable energy sources, including solar energy installations on municipal buildings and incentives for residential solar panel adoption. Challenges and Actions for the City Council 1. Addressing Environmental Inequities: • Challenge: Historically marginalized communities in Richmond often bear the brunt of climate impacts, such as flooding and heat waves. • Action: The City Council can focus on targeted investments in these communities, ensuring equitable distribution of resources for climate adaptation and resilience. This includes enhancing green spaces, improving housing infrastructure, and ensuring access to cooling centers. 2. Enhancing Energy Efficiency: • Challenge: Many older buildings in Richmond are not energy efficient, leading to higher energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. • Action: Implement stricter energy efficiency standards for new buildings and provide incentives for retrofitting existing structures. Expanding programs like weatherization assistance for low-income households can also help reduce energy costs and emissions. 3. Improving Public Transit and Mobility: • Challenge: Despite improvements, public transit in Richmond can be further enhanced to reduce reliance on cars. • Action: Increase funding for public transit to expand coverage and frequency. Promote active transportation options, such as biking and walking, by investing in more bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. 4. Combating Urban Heat Island Effect: • Challenge: Urban areas in Richmond experience higher temperatures due to the concentration of buildings and pavement. • Action: Increase urban tree canopy coverage and implement cool roofing and pavement technologies. Promote policies that incentivize developers to include green roofs and reflective materials in new constructions. 5. Water Management: • Challenge: Richmond faces challenges with stormwater management and flooding, exacerbated by climate change. • Action: Invest in modernizing the stormwater management system, including expanding green infrastructure projects. Implement policies that require new developments to include stormwater mitigation measures. 6. Promoting Renewable Energy: • Challenge: While progress has been made, the transition to renewable energy sources needs to accelerate. • Action: Increase incentives for solar and other renewable energy installations, both residential and commercial. Explore partnerships with private companies and state programs to fund larger-scale renewable energy projects. 7. Education and Advocacy: • Challenge: Public awareness and engagement on climate issues can be limited. • Action: Launch educational campaigns to inform residents about the importance of climate action and how they can contribute. Partner with schools, community organizations, and businesses to promote sustainability practices.

Yes

There is a profound relationship between climate action, poverty, and justice in Richmond. The city’s history of racially motivated redlining, highway construction, and disinvestment in low-income and Black and African American communities has left a lasting impact. These actions have created disparities in community resources, environmental quality, health outcomes, and economic opportunities. The City of Richmond Climate Equity Index, the Trust for Public Land ParkScore, and the White House’s Climate and Economic Justice Screening Tool highlight these disparities across neighborhoods. They demonstrate that the communities most affected by historical injustices are also the ones most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Addressing climate action in Richmond must go hand-in-hand with tackling poverty and advancing justice. By focusing on equitable climate initiatives, we can improve environmental quality, enhance community resources, and create economic opportunities for those who have been historically marginalized. This holistic approach is essential for building a resilient and just Richmond for all its residents.

Yes

several measures can be implemented: 1. Subsidies and Financial Assistance — Provide direct financial assistance or subsidies to low and median-income households to offset the costs of transitioning to cleaner energy sources. This could include grants, rebates, or low-interest loans for energy-efficient appliances and home retrofits. 2. Energy Efficiency Programs — Implement programs that improve the energy efficiency of homes, such as weatherization assistance, upgrading insulation, and installing energy-efficient windows and appliances. These measures can reduce overall energy consumption and lower utility bills. 3. Education and Outreach —  Conduct educational campaigns to inform households about the benefits of energy transition, available financial assistance programs, and energy-saving practices. Partner with local organizations to ensure widespread dissemination of information. 4. Community Solar Programs — Develop community solar programs that allow low and median-income households to benefit from renewable energy without needing to install their own solar panels. These programs can offer reduced rates for electricity sourced from community solar farms. 5. Job Training and Employment Opportunities — Provide job training and placement programs to help workers transition from traditional energy sectors to jobs in the renewable energy industry. This can ensure that the workforce is prepared for the changing energy landscape and that economic opportunities remain available. 6. Regulatory Protections — Ensure that regulatory measures are in place to protect low and median-income households from potential rate hikes during the transition period. This could include capping utility rates or providing tiered pricing structures based on income levels. 7. Infrastructure Investments — Invest in upgrading the local energy infrastructure to support renewable energy sources and ensure reliable energy delivery. This can include modernizing the grid and expanding access to renewable energy sources. By implementing these measures, we can ensure a just and equitable transition away from Richmond Gas Works. These steps will help mitigate the financial burden on low and median-income households, provide them with opportunities in the new energy economy, and ensure they benefit from the environmental and economic advantages of a cleaner energy future.

It's Complicated

In Richmond, the process of addressing zoning issues has become increasingly problematic. The same developers, their representatives, and developer-bought politicians are repeatedly chosen to be at the table, while genuine community representation remains minimal. This setup not only neglects the voices of the people but also perpetuates a cycle where decisions are made to benefit a select few rather than addressing the broader needs of the community. Local governments play a crucial role in land use and zoning, directly impacting the housing supply and the types of housing that get built. In Richmond, the Planning Department has started the essential work of rewriting the zoning code, a step I wholeheartedly support. A citywide zoning code rewrite is an opportunity to correct past oversights and ensure that our zoning policies reflect the diverse needs of our community. In terms of zoning changes, I would advocate for several key adjustments: 1. Inclusionary Zoning — Policies that require a percentage of new developments to be affordable for low and moderate-income residents. This ensures that as our city grows, it remains inclusive and accessible to all income levels. 2. Mixed-Use Development — Encouraging mixed-use zoning, which allows for residential, commercial, and recreational spaces to coexist. This creates vibrant, walkable communities where people can live, work, and play. 3. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — Supporting the creation of more ADUs, such as garage apartments or in-law suites, which can provide additional affordable housing options within existing neighborhoods. 4. Density Bonuses — Offering specific and vetted incentives for developers to include affordable housing units in their projects by allowing higher density developments in certain areas. 5. Preservation of Existing Housing Stock — Implementing policies to protect existing affordable housing from being converted into luxury units, thus preventing displacement of long-term residents.

Yes

Ensuring each council district in Richmond has its own share of affordable housing is crucial for several reasons: 1. Equitable Distribution — Distributing affordable housing across all districts ensures that no single area bears the entire burden. This prevents overconcentration of low-income housing in one part of the city, promoting a more balanced and inclusive community. 2. Access to Resources — Affordable housing spread across districts allows residents better access to diverse resources such as schools, healthcare, transportation, and employment opportunities. This enhances the quality of life and helps residents become more integrated into the broader community. 3. Diverse Communities — Mixing affordable housing with market-rate housing creates diverse neighborhoods. This promotes social integration, reduces stigmatization of low-income residents, and fosters a sense of community across different economic backgrounds. 4. Economic Benefits— When affordable housing is available citywide, it can boost the local economy by increasing the workforce’s stability and spending power. Residents living in affordable housing are more likely to spend money locally, supporting businesses and services in all districts. 5. Alleviating Pressure on Services— Spreading affordable housing can alleviate pressure on public services in certain areas. By distributing the demand for social services, schools, and infrastructure, the city can manage resources more effectively and avoid overloading specific districts. 6. Prevention of More Gentrification — Affordable housing in all districts can help mitigate the negative effects of gentrification. As neighborhoods develop and property values rise, having a baseline of affordable housing ensures that long-term, lower-income residents can remain in their communities.

Yes

I support relaxing or eliminating zoning rules that hinder development, particularly those that disproportionately affect small and part-time builders. But community input is crucial every step of the way: Key areas to address include: 1. Flexible Zoning for Mixed-Use Developments — Allowing more mixed-use zoning can encourage diverse developments that include residential, commercial, and community spaces, making neighborhoods more vibrant and economically resilient. 2. Streamlined Permitting Processes — Simplifying and expediting the permitting process can reduce barriers for small builders and ensure projects are completed more efficiently, benefiting the local economy and addressing housing shortages. 3. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) — Easing restrictions on ADUs can provide affordable housing options and additional income for homeowners, contributing to a more inclusive housing market. 4. Reducing Lot Size Requirements — Lowering minimum lot size requirements can promote more dense and affordable housing, allowing for greater diversity in housing types and more efficient land use. 5. Relaxing Height and Density Limits — Adjusting height and density regulations can help accommodate more housing units, particularly in high-demand areas, addressing the supply side of the housing crisis.

yes

To address the challenge of providing seamless, interconnected multimodal networks in the 6th district of Richmond, I will support legislation and funding initiatives that prioritize accessibility, safety, and efficiency for all modes of transportation. My approach will include: 1. Expanding Public Transit: - Increase Funding for GRTC: Advocate for increased funding for the Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) to expand bus routes and increase frequency, particularly in underserved areas. - Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Expansion: Support the extension of the Pulse BRT line to connect more neighborhoods and key destinations, making transit more efficient and reliable. 2. Improving Infrastructure for Non-Motorized Transport: - Complete Streets Policy: Advocate for the implementation and enforcement of a Complete Streets policy that ensures streets are designed and operated to enable safe access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and transit riders. - Bicycle Infrastructure: Secure funding for the expansion of bike lanes, bike-sharing programs, and secure bike parking facilities to encourage cycling as a viable transportation option. 3. Enhancing Connectivity: - Multimodal Hubs: Develop multimodal transportation hubs where different modes of transportation converge, making it easier for residents to switch between buses, bikes, scooters, and walking. - Pedestrian Improvements: Invest in pedestrian infrastructure, such as improved sidewalks, crosswalks, and pedestrian signals, to make walking safer and more convenient. 4. Advocating for Equitable Access: - Transportation Equity Fund: Establish a transportation equity fund to ensure low-income communities and communities of color have improved access to transportation options. - Affordable Transit Passes: Work with GRTC to provide affordable or subsidized transit passes for low-income residents, seniors, and students to ensure everyone can afford to use public transportation if free fare is not continued. 5. Supporting Smart Growth and Development: - Transit-Oriented Development (TOD): Promote transit-oriented development policies that encourage higher-density, mixed-use development near transit stations to reduce the need for car travel and create more walkable communities. - Zoning Reforms: Advocate for zoning reforms that support the development of mixed-use neighborhoods where people can live, work, and play without relying on cars. 6. Leveraging Technology: - Smart Transportation Solutions: Support the integration of smart transportation solutions, such as real-time transit tracking apps, mobile payment systems, and smart traffic management systems, to enhance the efficiency and user experience of public transit.

yes

We need decisions that don’t divide us: decisions that don’t have the impact of neglecting communities and worsening social inequities. This, we need programs that increase opportunity. We need community pilots, grant programs focused on equity, carbon reduction programs, congestion relief programs, programs designed to electric vehicles and programs to provide safety and focus on underserved communities.

yes

I will prioritize and embrace the programs that deal with safety and mobility. I’m concerrned about land use, historic preservation, community families planning and integrating transportation.

Envisioning a future for young people transitioning into adulthood involves considering their diverse needs and the challenges they face. My vision is: 1. Economic Opportunity — Ensuring access to quality jobs, vocational training, and career development opportunities. 2. Education and Skills — Providing robust support for higher education, apprenticeships, and skill-building programs that align with industry demands. 3. Affordable Housing — Facilitating affordable housing options to help them establish independence without financial strain. 4. Mental Health and Wellness — Addressing mental health needs with accessible resources and support systems. 5. Community Engagement — Encouraging active participation in local governance and community service to build leadership skills and civic responsibility. Actions I will take: 1. Expand Job Training Programs — Partner with local businesses and educational institutions to create and fund job training and apprenticeship programs that offer real-world experience. 2. Support Higher Education — Advocate for scholarships, grants, and affordable higher education options to reduce student debt. 3. Promote Affordable Housing — Work on policies that support the development of affordable housing and first-time homebuyer programs. 4. Enhance Mental Health Services — Increase funding and access to mental health resources and counseling services in schools and communities. 5. Foster Community Involvement — Create programs that encourage youth to engage in community service and local government, providing them with leadership opportunities and a sense of civic duty.

1. Strengthening Community Partnerships: Building strong collaborations with local organizations, schools, and community leaders to create comprehensive violence prevention programs. You aim to ensure these programs are well-funded and targeted to areas with the highest need. 2. Enhanced Crisis Response: Investing in and improving crisis response services, including mental health support and intervention programs. This involves working with local agencies to ensure rapid, effective responses to incidents and supporting the training of first responders in de-escalation techniques. 3. Gun Safety Initiatives: Advocating for and implementing local policies that promote gun safety, such as mandatory safety training for gun owners, secure storage requirements, and community education about safe gun practices. 4. Youth Engagement Programs: Developing and supporting programs aimed at youth to provide positive alternatives and mentorship opportunities, thus steering them away from violence and crime. 5. Community Policing: Encouraging a community policing approach that fosters trust and cooperation between law enforcement and local communities. This approach includes increased police accountability and transparency. 6. Data-Driven Approaches: Utilizing data to identify patterns and hotspots of violence, ensuring that resources and interventions are directed where they are most needed. 7. Support for Victims: Ensuring there are adequate resources and support systems for victims of violence, including counseling services, legal assistance, and advocacy.

To ensure every child in Richmond has access to high-quality care, education, and wraparound services, I will champion the following strategies: 1. Expand Early Childhood Education: Increase funding for preschool programs, improve access to quality early childhood education, and support initiatives that provide comprehensive care and developmental services for infants and toddlers. 2. Enhance K-12 Education: Invest in public schools, ensuring equitable funding and resources for all schools. Support teacher training and development, and promote programs that address diverse learning needs. 3. Strengthen Community Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, non-profits, and businesses to provide wraparound services like tutoring, mental health support, and extracurricular activities. 4. Increase Access to Health Services: Improve access to healthcare services, including mental health services, for children and families. Support programs that offer free or low-cost health screenings and vaccinations. 5. Support Family Engagement: Encourage family involvement in education through workshops and resources. Provide support services for parents to help them navigate and advocate for their children’s needs. 6. Address Economic Barriers: Implement programs that assist low-income families, such as food assistance, housing support, and financial literacy programs. 7. Promote Policy Changes: Advocate for policies that ensure equitable distribution of resources and support for all children, including addressing disparities in funding and services. 8. Monitor and Evaluate Programs: Regularly assess the effectiveness of programs and services to ensure they meet the needs of children and families, making adjustments as necessary.