In today's newsletter, we look ahead to a busy Council week, recap our zoning changes community meeting, and more. As always, be sure to check out the bulletin board for upcoming events like Shamrock the Block (now on Leigh St), City resources, and engagement opportunities.
Zoning Changes Meeting Recap
Thank you to the Fan District Association, Binford Middle School, my co-host Councilor Stephanie Lynch and everyone who came out on Tuesday evening to hear an update on the three proposed zoning changes, ask questions, and offer your thoughts on the proposals. Thank you also to Planning Director Kevin Vonck, Senior Planner Brian Mercer and Councilor Andreas Addison for addressing community questions throughout the evening. We had fantastic turnout, but for those who were unable to make it, you can view the full recording of the meeting here, as well as the full presentation given by the Planning Director here.
Of special note for those that couldn't attend, the current draft now has a primary residency requirement in residentially zoned areas, thanks in large part to the overwhelming community feedback to retain that requirement. Separate restrictions will be placed on mixed-use districts, as laid out in the presentation.
If you're new to the three proposed zoning changes (allowing for accessory dwelling units, eliminating parking minimums, and amending our short-term rentals regulations) please be sure to check out the City zoning changes site, which includes summaries of the proposals and of the previous rounds of engagement and discussion, which started last August. The three proposals, which will all be voted on separately, are expected to come before Planning Commission and Council in April.
Council Week Ahead
I want to highlight a number of important Council meetings coming up next week, including:
City Council's Next Budget Work Session will be held on Monday at 12:30pm. An in-depth review of the Mayor's budget proposal, which was introduced March 6th, can be found here. You can find more info on the work session meeting here.
Council's Formal Meeting will be held on Monday at 6pm. You can view the full agenda here.
The Finance & Economic Development Committee will meet on Thursday at 1pm. You can view the full agenda here.
Aging & Disability Advisory Board Opening
If you're looking for an opportunity to give back to your community and have an interest in serving elderly people and people with disabilities in the City, there is a fantastic opportunity for you to serve on the Aging & Disability Advisory Board! There is a vacancy for a Second District appointee, and the first round of applications are due March 15th. You can learn more and apply here. Questions? You can reach out to cityclerksoffice@rva.gov, and please copy our office.
Have a wonderful weekend!
Sincerely, Katherine
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Office Contact Katherine Jordan
Councilmember
Office: (804) 646-6532 Email Sven Philipsen
Council Liaison
Office: (804) 646-6532
Cell: (804) 201-5069 Email
RVA311
The quickest way to report a City customer service request or delivery of service issue is to use Richmond’s online web portal, rva311.com.
For more information on testing options, the latest CDC guidance, and vaccinations, check out the RCHD's latest weekly update here.
Bulletin Board
Leaf Collection: the City's vacuum leaf collection service ends this Monday. Check out more information here.
Shamrock the Block: Shamrock the Block is back in a new location this weekend. You can find more information on the anticipated road closures on Leigh St and event info here.
Monument Avenue 10K: Get your tickets for this year's 10K, taking place on Saturday, April 22nd. Tickets and more info here.
DPU Financial Assistance: Richmond DPU is now participating in the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), which helps Virginia residents pay their water and wastewater bills. The program will run through December 31, 2023, or until all funds have been distributed. More info here, and below the bulletin board.
City & Community Resources
Call 804-205-3501 to register for free community testing. Events are subject to change or cancellation. Locations are accessible for wheelchairs and other mobility support devices. Click here for non-community testing options.
