Posted on June 09, 2025

Richmond, VA – On June 9, Richmond City Council confirmed Mayor Danny Avula's appointment of Odie Donald II as the City of Richmond's new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Mayor Avula announced Donald's nomination on June 6, 2025 following a rigorous five-month national searched launched shortly after Mayor Avula took office on January 1. Mr. Donald currently serves as Chief of Staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens.

"I am absolutely thrilled with this evening's City Council confirmation of my nominee for Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Odie Donald II. With his confirmation, Richmond gains a talented and experienced public administrator whose life story reflects our city's highest aspirations," said Mayor Danny Avula. "Odie brings both strong management and deep compassion, a combination that's essential to building a thriving Richmond. His belief in the power of local government to uplift and transform communities, and his experience doing so, are exactly what we need right now."

"I'm honored by the Council's confirmation, and deeply grateful to Mayor Avula for the opportunity to serve. From day one, we'll hit the ground running – focused on building a thriving City Hall that supports the community and delivers for Richmond's families. There's important work ahead, and I'm looking forward to partnering with the Mayor, Council, and approximately 4,000 dedicated employees to get the business of the city done," said Odie Donald.

"Richmond City Council looks forward to continuing the important work of Richmond residents and welcomes Mr. Donald to our city to serve as its Chief Administrative Officer," said Council President Newbille, Richmond City Council. "Richmond City Council looks forward to further strengthening our city and working with Mr. Donald's abilities in support and service of the needs of our community."

"Richmond is a vibrant, forward-moving city and I'm proud to support the introduction of a leader prepared to meet this moment," said U.S. Senator Tim Kaine. "The national interest in this role reflects the city's growing reputation and potential. It's exciting to think about what's ahead. I've always believed when you have the right team in the right place at the right time, great things happen."

Mr. Donald brings nearly two decades of executive-level experience in municipal government, with a track record of leading high-impact local, state, and federally funded organizations and programs. A native of Atlanta, Donald has held key leadership roles across Georgia, most recently serving as Chief of Staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. In this role, he provides strategic guidance on legislative and policy issues, led major public-private partnerships resulting in more than $1.6 billion in investment, and oversaw a broad portfolio including External Affairs, Communications, Cultural Affairs, Sustainability, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and the newly created Department of Labor and Employment Services.

Previously, Donald served as City Administrator for both South Fulton and Augusta-Richmond County. In Augusta, he improved bond ratings, managed over $150 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and spearheaded major economic development and transparency initiatives including the city's largest special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) program and its first comprehensive blight ordinance. In South Fulton, as the city's first City Manager, he built the local government from the ground up, eliminating a $25 million deficit, doubling revenues, establishing the city's first positive fund balance, and delivering its inaugural strategic plan.

Donald is also a recognized civic leader, having served as President of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (Metro Atlanta Chapter) and on the Georgia Forward Board of Directors. A two-time Georgia State University graduate with a BA in History (2003) and a Masters in Business Administration (2012), he has been honored in Georgia Trend's 40 Under 40, Georgia State's 40 Under 40, and Who's Who in Black Atlanta. He is a recipient of the John F. Wall Award from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.

"I am excited to see someone of this caliber stepping into the role of Chief of Administrative Officer," said Brian Anderson, President and CEO, ChamberRVA. "Mr. Donald's leadership and collaborative spirit will be key to strengthening the partnership between the City and the business community as we continue building a thriving and inclusive local economy."

"In a time of rapid changes and so much uncertainty at the federal level, it's reassuring to see someone with steady, proven leadership in multiple municipal governments with diverse populations. Mr. Donald's leadership in a vibrant, big city like Atlanta will be a real asset as Richmond continues to grow and evolve," said Tanya González, Richmond resident.

"I'm excited about Mr. Donald's background and his authentic public service dedication. He's learned what a community needs through real experience and has risen through the ranks of government on hard work and talent," said Rev. Donté McCutchen, Pastor of Greater Mount Moriah and Love Cathedral Church. "I trust he is well aligned with the values and vision we voted for in Mayor Avula and the kind of forward momentum Richmond needs right now."

"Richmond is an amazing city, and we are delighted to help welcome a new leader ready to meet its challenges and opportunities. There was enormous national interest in the Chief Administrative Officer position which speaks to the incredible dynamism and appeal of the city and its future," said Robert Bobb of the Robert Bobb Group, LLC. "The nomination of Mr. Donald reflects a strong match between the City's needs and a proven, thoughtful leader who understands what it takes to deliver results in a dynamic urban environment."

Under the City of Richmond's Charter, the mayor appoints a Chief Administrative Officer with strong executive and administrative qualifications. This person has virtually all of the formal authority to run the City's operations. The Chief Administrative Officer is responsible for personnel decisions, financial and administrative activities, and close relationships with City Council.

The expedited resolution for Mr. Donald's appointment was introduced at the June 9 by City Council meeting. Council approved the proposed salary of $365,000. Mr. Donald will begin his duties on July 9. City Council also approved Sharon Ebert as Acting Chief Administrative Officer from June 9 through July 9.

Learn more about the role of a CAO here.

Looking for something to do this summer? The City’s Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities (PRCF) is sure to have an event or program to kick start your summer along with great, free activities for everyone in your family!  

The 2025 Festival of Arts season is in full swing at Dogwood Dell. Remaining performances and events for the month of June include the Multicultural Festival presented by the Office of Multicultural Affairs and ReEstablish Richmond on Saturday, June 14 beginning at 1 p.m. and the KOS Band on Saturday, June 28 beginning at 8 p.m. The full schedule for the 68th Festival of Arts can be found on the Parks and Recreation website. 

The department will also be celebrating Juneteenth with three events. Beginning with Our Man Mitchell, the Journey Program from Pine Camp Arts and Community Center will perform their play about John H. Mitchell, Jr. and how he used his position and platform as Editor in Chief of The Richmond Planet to advocate for Richmond’s black population. The free performance will take place on Saturday, June 14 at 2 p.m. at Pine Camp Arts & Community Center (4901 Old Brook Road). On June 19, the Juneteenth celebration will continue at Intermediate Terminal (3101 Wharf Street) with the 4th Jubilation in June Festival featuring Grammy nominated R&B artist Carl Thomas. The festival will end with a fireworks show beginning approximately at 8:50 p.m. On Friday, June 20, Legacy Band will be performing at Dogwood Dell beginning at 8 p.m. 

Jazz at Fountain Lake at Fountain Lake in Byrd Park will be returning for 2025! This event introduced in 2023 features jazz and R&B artists as part of the department’s Open Streets concept which allows for the space to be used for a range of activities. The first performance featuring The Francoise Experience will be on Sunday, June 29 beginning at 4 p.m. 

For more information about the department, follow PRCF on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram or visit our website. 

Richmond, VA - Mayor Danny Avula today announced Odie Donald II, Chief of Staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, as his nominee for Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of the City of Richmond. Mr. Donald's nomination is the result of a rigorous five-month national search launched shortly after Mayor Avula took office on January 1.

"Odie Donald is a talented and experienced public administrator with a compelling life story that speaks to Richmond's highest aspirations. He believes in effective and responsible public management, and in the necessity of local government to uplift and transform lives. His combination of strong management and deep compassion is exactly what is needed to realize our vision of a thriving Richmond that leaves no one behind," said Mayor Danny Avula.

"I'm deeply honored by Mayor Danny Avula's trust in me to serve the people of Richmond as Chief Administrative Officer. Throughout my career, I've been passionate about building strong, effective teams that truly deliver for residents-from streamlining services and improving infrastructure to fostering economic development that benefits everyone. Richmond has incredible potential, and I'm excited to work alongside the talented City staff and dynamic City Council to, together, build a strong foundation for thriving neighborhoods, an efficient City Hall, and a city where every resident has the opportunity to succeed," said Donald.

Mr. Donald brings nearly two decades of executive level experience in municipal government, with a track record of leading high impact local, state, and federally-funded organizations and programs. A native of Atlanta, Donald has held key leadership roles across Georgia, most recently serving as Chief of Staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens. In this role, he provides strategic guidance on legislative and policy issues, led major public-private partnerships resulting in more than $1.6 billion in investment, and oversaw a broad portfolio including External Affairs, Communications, Cultural Affairs, Sustainability, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, and the newly created Department of Labor and Employment Services.

Previously, Donald served as City Administrator for both South Fulton and Augusta-Richmond County. In Augusta, he improved bond ratings, managed over $150 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, and spearheaded major economic development and transparency initiatives including the city's largest special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) program and its first comprehensive blight ordinance. In South Fulton, as the city's first City Manager, he built the local government from the ground up, eliminating a $25 million deficit, doubling revenues, establishing the city's first positive fund balance, and delivering its inaugural strategic plan.

Donald is also a recognized civic leader, having served as President of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators (Metro Atlanta Chapter) and on the Georgia Forward Board of Directors. A two-time Georgia State University graduate with a BA in History (2003) and a Masters in Business Administration (2012), he has been honored in Georgia Trend's 40 Under 40, Georgia State's 40 Under 40, and Who's Who in Black Atlanta. He is a recipient of the John F. Wall Award from the National Association of State Workforce Agencies.

"I am excited to see someone of this caliber stepping into the role of Chief of Administrative Officer," said Brian Anderson, President and CEO, ChamberRVA. "Mr. Donald's leadership and collaborative spirit will be key to strengthening the partnership between the City and the business community as we continue building a thriving and inclusive local economy."

"In a time of rapid changes and so much uncertainty at the federal level, it's reassuring to see someone with steady, proven leadership in multiple municipal governments with diverse populations. Mr. Donald's leadership in a vibrant, big city like Atlanta will be a real asset as Richmond continues to grow and evolve," said Tanya González, Richmond resident.

"I'm excited about Mr. Donald's background and his authentic public service dedication. He's learned what a community needs through real experience and has risen through the ranks of government on hard work and talent," said Rev. Donté McCutchen, Pastor of Greater Mount Moriah and Love Cathedral Church. "I trust he is well aligned with the values and vision we voted for in Mayor Avula and the kind of forward momentum Richmond needs right now."

"Richmond is an amazing city, and we are delighted to help welcome a new leader ready to meet its challenges and opportunities. There was enormous national interest in the Chief Administrative Officer position which speaks to the incredible dynamism and appeal of the city and its future," said Robert Bobb of the Robert Bobb Group, LLC. "The nomination of Mr. Donald reflects a strong match between the City's needs and a proven, thoughtful leader who understands what it takes to deliver results in a dynamic urban environment."

Under the City of Richmond's Charter, the mayor appoints a Chief Administrative Officer with strong executive and administrative qualifications. This person has virtually all of the formal authority to run the City's operations. The CAO is responsible for personnel decisions, financial and administrative activities, and close relationships with City Council.

The expedited resolution for Mr. Donald's appointment, including the proposed contract and salary of $365,000, will be introduced at the June 9 City Council meeting. Mr. Donald's proposed start date will be July 9.

Resources

• DannyCam: Introducing Odie Donald II
• Learn more about the role of a CAO

El alcalde Avula anuncia a Odie Donald II como su nominado para ser Oficial Administrativo en Jefe

Richmond, Virginia - El alcalde Danny Avula anunció hoy a Odie Donald II, jefe de gabinete del alcalde de Atlanta Andre Dickens, como su nominado al cargo de Oficial Administrativo en Jefe (CAO) de la Ciudad de Richmond. La nominación del Sr. Donald es el resultado de una búsqueda intensiva a nivel nacional de cinco meses de duración, la cual se inició poco después de que el alcalde Avula tomara posesión de su cargo el 1º de enero.

Dijo el alcalde Danny Avula: "Odie Donald es un administrador público talentoso y experimentado con una fascinante historia de vida que responde a las más altas aspiraciones de Richmond. Él cree en una administración pública efectiva y responsable, así como en la necesidad de que el gobierno local mejore y transforme las condiciones de vida. Su gran combinación de sólida gestión y profunda compasión es exactamente lo que necesitamos para hacer realidad nuestra visión de una Richmond próspera que no deje a nadie al margen".

Agregó el Sr. Donald: "Me siento profundamente honrado por la confianza que el alcalde Avula deposita en mí al querer que le sirva al público de Richmond como su Oficial Administrativo en Jefe. A lo largo de mi carrera, he estado convencido de que hay que crear equipos sólidos y efectivos que realmente le cumplan a la población - desde la agilización de los servicios y la mejora de las infraestructuras hasta el fomento de un desarrollo económico que nos beneficie a todos. Richmond tiene un potencial increíble y estoy emocionado de trabajar junto al talentoso personal de la Ciudad para que juntos podamos construir unos cimientos fuertes para que florezcan los barrios y vecindarios, haya un Ayuntamiento eficiente y una ciudad donde todos sus habitantes tengan la oportunidad de alcanzar el éxito".

El Sr. Donald trae consigo casi dos décadas de experiencia a nivel ejecutivo en gobiernos municipales, con un historial de liderazgo en organizaciones y programas de gran impacto financiados a nivel local, estatal y federal. Originario de Atlanta, el Sr. Donald ha desempeñado cargos directivos importantes en Georgia, el más reciente como jefe de gabinete del alcalde de Atlanta, Andre Dickens. En este cargo, ha proporcionado orientación estratégica sobre temas legislativos y políticos, ha dirigido importantes alianzas público-privadas que han dado lugar a una inversión de más de 1600 millones de dólares, y ha supervisado una amplia cartera que incluye Asuntos Exteriores, Comunicaciones, Asuntos Culturales, Sostenibilidad, Diversidad, Equidad e Inclusión, y el recién creado Departamento de Trabajo y Servicios de Empleo.

Anteriormente, el Sr. Donald fue administrador municipal de South Fulton y del condado de Augusta-Richmond. En Augusta, mejoró la calificación de los bonos, gestionó más de 150 millones de dólares en fondos del Acta del Plan de Rescate Estadounidense (ARPA, por sus siglas en inglés) y encabezó importantes iniciativas de desarrollo económico y transparencia, incluyendo el mayor programa de impuestos locales sobre las ventas con fines especiales de la ciudad (SPLOST) y su primera ordenanza integral contra la degradación del patrimonio. En South Fulton, en su calidad de primer administrador municipal, construyó el gobierno local desde cero, eliminando un déficit de $25 millones, duplicando los ingresos, estableciendo el primer saldo positivo de fondos municipales y ejecutando su plan estratégico inaugural.

El Sr. Donald es también un reconocido líder cívico, habiendo sido Presidente del Foro Nacional de Administradores Públicos Afrodescendientes (Filial Metro Atlanta) y miembro de la Junta Directiva de Georgia Forward. Graduado en dos ocasiones por la Universidad Estatal de Georgia con una licenciatura en Historia (2003) y una maestría en Administración de Empresas (2012), él ha sido distinguido en Georgia Trend's "40 Under 40", Georgia State's "40 Under 40" y en "Who's Who in Black Atlanta". Así mismo, él obtuvo el Premio John F. Wall de la Asociación Nacional de Agencias Estatales de Empleo.

Dijo el presidente y director ejecutivo de ChamberRVA, Brian Anderson: "Me entusiasma que alguien de este calibre asuma el cargo de Oficial Administrativo en Jefe", y añadió: "El liderazgo y el espíritu de colaboración del Sr. Donald serán fundamentales para reforzar la alianza entre la Ciudad y la comunidad empresarial a medida que seguimos construyendo una economía local próspera e incluyente".

La líder comunitaria Tanya González dijo: "En una época de cambios rápidos y tanta incertidumbre a nivel federal, es tranquilizador ver a alguien con un liderazgo constante y comprobado en múltiples gobiernos municipales con poblaciones diversas. El liderazgo del Sr. Donald en una ciudad grande y vibrante como Atlanta será un valioso activo a medida que Richmond siga creciendo y evolucionando".

El reverendo Donté McCutchen dijo: "Me entusiasma la trayectoria del Sr. Donald y su auténtica dedicación al servicio público. Él ha aprendido lo que una comunidad necesita a través de la experiencia real y ha ascendido en los rangos del gobierno mediante su esfuerzo y talento", y agregó: "Confío en que esté en sintonía con los valores y la visión que elegimos con nuestro voto al alcalde Avula y con el tipo de impulso que Richmond necesita en estos momentos".

Dijo Robert Bobb de Robert Bobb Group, LLC: "Richmond es una ciudad increíble, y estamos encantados de ayudar a darle la bienvenida a un nuevo líder dispuesto a afrontar sus retos y oportunidades. Ha habido un enorme interés nacional por el cargo de Oficial Administrativo en Jefe, lo que demuestra el increíble dinamismo y atractivo de la ciudad y su futuro", y añadió: "La candidatura del Sr. Donald refleja una fuerte coincidencia entre las necesidades de la ciudad y un líder experimentado y reflexivo que entiende lo que hace falta para obtener resultados en un entorno urbano dinámico".

Bajo los estatutos de la Ciudad de Richmond, el alcalde nombra a un Oficial Administrativo en Jefe (CAO) que posea grandes calificaciones a nivel ejecutivo y administrativo; esta persona tiene prácticamente toda la autoridad para dirigir el funcionamiento de la Ciudad. El CAO es responsable de las decisiones de personal, así como de las actividades financieras y administrativas, además de mantener una relación cercana con el Concejo Municipal.

La resolución acelerada para el nombramiento del Sr. Donald, incluyendo el contrato propuesto y el salario de $365,000, se presentará en la sesión del Concejo Municipal del 9 de junio. La fecha de inicio propuesta por el Sr. Donald será el 9 de julio.

Aquí podrá conocer más sobre el papel que desempeña el CAO.

Richmond, VA — The City of Richmond will host an in-person informational session on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, to help prepare vendors, contractors, and business owners for upcoming changes to the City’s construction procurement process. 

Where: Midtown Green, located at 2401 W. Leigh Street 

When: Wednesday, June 4, 2025 

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 

Background

This event follows the Richmond City Council’s adoption of Ordinance No. 2024-186, which established Section 21-74 of the City Code. Under this new section, all City-funded construction projects valued at $250,000 or more must adhere to prevailing wage requirements beginning July 1, 2025. The ordinance aligns with Virginia Code § 2.2-4321.3(C) and is designed to ensure fair and competitive wages for workers on large-scale public construction contracts. 

During the session, City staff and subject matter experts will provide critical guidance on: 

• Which businesses and contracts are subject to the new ordinance 

• How wage classifications and rates are determined 

• Documentation requirements and steps to ensure full compliance  

“This session is an opportunity for our partners in the construction industry to receive clarity and support as we implement these important wage protections,” said Rene Almaraz Director of Procurement. “We want to ensure everyone is equipped to meet the new standards with confidence and transparency.” 

The session is especially recommended for construction companies, general contractors, subcontractors, and business owners currently working on or planning to bid on City of Richmond construction projects.

Participants are asked to RSVP by Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/4gqbgpa.

La Ciudad de Richmond tendrá una sesión informativa acerca de los nuevos requisitos salariales para los proyectos de construcción

RICHMOND, Virginia — La Ciudad de Richmond presentará una sesión informativa en persona el miércoles 4 de junio de 2025, para ayudar a preparar a los proveedores, contratistas y propietarios de negocios para los próximos cambios en el proceso de contratación de trabajos de construcción en la Ciudad.

Dónde: Midtown Green, ubicado en el 2401 de West Leigh Street.

Cuándo: Miércoles 4 de junio de 2025.

Hora: de 10:00 a.m. a 12:00 p.m.

Contexto

Este evento sigue a la adopción por parte del Concejo Municipal de Richmond de la Ordenanza # 2024-186, que creó la Sección 21-74 del Código Municipal. Bajo esta nueva sección, todos los proyectos de construcción financiados por la Ciudad valorados en $250 000 o más deben cumplir con los requisitos salariales predominantes a partir del 1 de julio de 2025. La ordenanza se alinea con la sección § 2.2-4321.3 (C) del Código de Virginia  y está diseñada para garantizar salarios justos y competitivos para los trabajadores en contratos de construcción pública a gran escala. 

Durante la sesión, el personal de la Ciudad y los expertos en la materia proporcionarán orientación crítica sobre:

• Qué empresas y contratos están sujetos a la nueva ordenanza,
• Cómo se determinan las clasificaciones e índices salariales,
• Documentación, requisitos y pasos para garantizar el pleno cumplimiento.

"Esta sesión es una oportunidad para que nuestros socios en la industria de la construcción reciban claridad y apoyo a medida que implementamos estas importantes protecciones salariales", dijo René Almaraz, Director de Adquisiciones. "Queremos asegurarnos de que todos estén equipados para cumplir con los nuevos estándares con confianza y transparencia".

La sesión está especialmente recomendada para compañías de construcción, contratistas generales, subcontratistas y propietarios de negocios que actualmente trabajan o planean presentar ofertas en proyectos de construcción de la Ciudad de Richmond.

Pedimos a los participantes que confirmen su asistencia antes del martes 3 de junio de 2025 en la página: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/4gqbgpa.

Posted June 2, 2025

~ Community meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 11 ~

Richmond, VA – The Department of Public Works will hold a community meeting to review project plans for the Arthur Ashe Boulevard Bridge Project on Wednesday, June 11 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Science Museum of Virginia located at 2500 West Broad Street. This project will replace the existing bridge structure over the CSX Railroad at the City’s crossroads between Broad Street and Interstate I-64/I-95, adjacent to Scott’s Addition and the Diamond District.

Benefits include:

• Replacing structurally deficient bridge infrastructure
• Enhancing connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles
• Enhancing a multimodal transportation network
• Enhancing safety and lowering the risk of crashes along this high-traffic area
• Improving access to local businesses and attractions
• Promoting and supporting economic development in the vicinity

The project team along with consultants from the Timmons group will be available to answer questions.

The bridge will remain open during construction with planned traffic shifts to maintain continued access. The city will work with the community to enhance safety and reduce disruptions.

This $38 million project is funded through a combination of local and federal funding.

For more information, go to rva.gov/public-works/AABB

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The City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) is one of only 195 currently accredited public works agencies in the United States. DPW’s portfolio comprises a wide array of services to include leaf collection; street, sidewalk and alley maintenance; trash collection; recycling; grass cutting; graffiti removal; parking enforcement; urban forestry; street signs; traffic signals and pavement markings and civil engineering. In addition, DPW maintains upkeep on most city buildings; issues permits for working in the city’s right-of-way; manages the RVA Bike Share program and maintains the fleet of city vehicles. DPW’s operating budget comes from the general fund of the City of Richmond.  For more information about DPW services, click here or call 3-1-1