Campaign News & Information
Dear Neighbor,
I can’t believe it’s that time again. On November 4th, Richmond will go to the polls to cast ballots for president, for the Senate and House of Representatives, for Mayor and to select nine members of Richmond City Council.
It seems like yesterday that you gave me the opportunity to represent and serve you on City Council. The last 41 months have been busy. Between Council and committees, I have attended more than 600 meetings and this does not include civic and neighborhood meetings. I am constantly learning and the advice and information you have provided me have formed the foundation of much of what we have accomplished.
For instance, during my first campaign, a neighbor pointed out that Richmond did not have a program to collect and dispose safely and cleanly of household hazardous waste. Finally after three years of effort, that facility is now open for business.
During that first campaign, Dr. Charles Price came to me with his concerns about the future of our jewel, the James River Park system. From that first meeting came my effort to create a conservation easement that would forever protect the park from development. This will ensure the park will be here for our children and grandchildren and their heirs.
Many of you recounted the stories of how hard it can be to be elderly or disabled with mounting real estate taxes on a fixed income. In response, we improved and broadened the reach of a real estate tax relief program for the elderly and disabled on a fixed income. Now many of our senior residents, those who have given much to the city, can look forward to staying in their homes thanks to tax reductions.
Richmond is a wonderful place to live, a city of neighbor-hoods, but the cost of that attractiveness is reflected in a rising cost of housing, higher real estate assessments and aging infrastructure. You have expressed these concerns and I have heard you. I have worked with Council to cut the tax rate by at least 15 cents in just three years. These tax cuts were often opposed by some who complain that we are not taking in enough money.
One thing I am most proud of comes from the many people who told us they felt isolated from their government; they did not feel included in the decision- making process. Now, we have quarterly newsletters that reach every home in the district, we have quarterly meetings, in which residents can ask questions of city officials, can learn of new programs, and can become involved in their government.
When a developer wishes to propose a project in the Fourth District, we advise that he meet with neighborhood groups, describe his plans, and work with the community to resolve concerns. In exchange, we get an economically and socially healthy community, with high standards and neighborhood involvement.
I have enjoyed immensely my work with you, and hope that you would support me in continuing that effort. I have decided to run for re-election, but need your help.
I have petitions at my office, which I hope you can help with, so that I can appear on the ballot in November. Remember that all signatures must be witnessed by the person circulating the petition, and that your affirmation on the back of the petition must be notarized. We have a notary in my office, and you can call at 320-2454 to make arrangements, or come by from 4 to 6 pm, May 30th to visit, have refreshments and have your petitions notarized.
I also have a volunteer/donation form [PDF], in case you are able to support my campaign as a volunteer or with a contribution. Your help with my campaign makes a difference. City Council is too big a job for one person. Your help makes it possible.
Thanks again for all you have done, and I look forward to seeing you in the coming months.
With appreciation,
