In their words: Richmond’s mayor candidates outline plans for economic development, housing
While on City Council, I have focused on helping Richmonders stay in their homes. In this year’s budget I introduced Richmond’s first right to counsel program, providing funding for legal representation for folks facing eviction. And as mayor, I will stop unsustainable tax increases on our homeowners.
When your neighbor sells their house for a large profit, your assessment and taxes go up. This places an unfair and sometimes impossible financial burden on residents. That’s why, in 2019, I worked with then-state Sen. Jennifer McClellan to pass legislation to allow Richmond to shift to a land value tax model. We’ve been leaning on housing market demand to generate more revenue. A land value tax would focus on the development of underutilized properties like empty parking lots and shuttered storefronts rather than on the backs of our current residents. We cannot just zone for the growth we want; we must also ensure we are taxing fairly, ensuring Richmonders can afford to stay in their homes. My administration will begin implementing a more just tax system in my first budget.
If we want to grow sustainably, we need City Hall to operate more effectively; we need to foster a circular economy centering our small businesses; and we need a robust workforce ecosystem. To do so, I’ll strengthen the Economic Development Authority (EDA) to be a resource for small businesses. The EDA will provide peer-to-peer learning, business coaching, and market insights, creating a one-stop shop for local businesses to learn, network, grow and succeed.
As a small business owner, I know firsthand how needlessly challenging it is to open and operate a business in Richmond. My administration will reduce tax burdens and provide the support small business owners and entrepreneurs need to scale, ensuring that City Hall is a partner, not a barrier, in their success. I will center customer service and cut red tape in City Hall by updating outdated technology and streamlining public-facing tools. This will ensure accurate records, seamless communication, and an efficient online system for applications and payments, making it easier for residents and businesses to interact with the city.
Finally, workers are the engines powering our economy, and I will focus on empowering all Richmonders to prosper from our city’s growth with new skills training and worker protections. I will start by repurposing city-owned land to build a Southside Workforce Development Center, partnering with local employers, J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College, and offering union-led training and apprenticeships for new career pathways.