Kathy Graziano
Richmond City Council
Fourth District

Dear Neighbors,

It seems like only yesterday you gave me my first opportunity to represent and serve you on City Council. So much has happened in the years I have been on Council. I have attended more meetings than I can count - meetings concerning issues that involve not only our city, but also the greater region, and many, many meetings with you and your civic associations.

Many of you stated you wanted to be more involved in the decision-making process and be more aware of what takes place in not only the 4th District, but also the City. As such, my office began holding quarterly meetings and providing quarterly newsletters to each household in the District. In addition, we requested that any developer who proposes a project within the 4th District, meet with neighborhood groups to inform and work with the community to answer questions and resolve concerns. Your involvement with me and my office has been vital to setting policy and providing services that improve our community and our quality of life

During my first year in office, Dr. Charles Price expressed his concern about the future of the James River Park system. Through our efforts, and with your assistance, we established a conservation easement that forever protects the park from development, thus ensuring that our children and grandchildren will enjoy all that this beautiful park has to offer.

Over the years, seniors and disabled residents on a fixed income related the difficulties of paying real estate taxes. In response, through our efforts, and with your assistance, we improved and extended the parameters of a real estate tax relief program, enabling our seniors and disabled residents to stay in their homes.

Forest Hill Park has been restored with a wonderful lake, as well as hiking, biking and walking trails.  Through our efforts, and with your assistance, we helped establish the South of the James Market in Forest Hill Park on Saturday mornings, May through December. This market is reported to be the largest market in the state. On a side note, I especially want to thank the neighbors who live near the

park for their patience on market mornings.

Since I was first elected, the tax rate has decreased by fifteen cents. Throughout these difficult times, I have continued to work with the Mayor and my fellow Council members to reduce the city budget and hold the line on the tax rate. We still have many challenges in front of us – an aging infrastructure, too many citizens in poverty, declining neighborhoods and a lack of retail. Despite it all, Richmond is on the move, and I am excited about its direction.

I have thoroughly enjoyed representing the 4th District. It has been a privilege to serve you and I look forward to continue to serve as your Council representative..

With appreciation and thanks,