Richmond, VA - On October 14, Mayor Danny Avula announced the passage of key measures before City Council that protect core services: the passage of ORD. 2025-207, which maintains the real estate tax rate at $1.20 and avoids $17 million in cuts to essential services.

General property taxes are the single largest source of revenue for Richmond, funding schools, public safety, infrastructure, and neighborhood services that residents rely on every day. Each penny of the tax rate generates $4.2 million in City revenue. Maintaining the rate avoids a potential $17 million shortfall that would impact core services.

"Richmonders expect and deserve stability," said Mayor Danny Avula. "With the passage of this ordinance, we're protecting the progress we've made together - investing in our schools, keeping our neighborhoods safe, and strengthening infrastructure that supports smart growth and opportunity. I'm excited to keep building a Thriving Richmond."

"Richmond City Council voted to keep the Richmond Real Estate Tax Rate at $1.20, rather than increase or decrease it, reflecting its commitment to fiscal responsibility in meeting the needs, priorities, and values of Richmond residents," said Council President Cynthia I. Newbille. "Richmond City Council is committed to building a strong community by ensuring the availability of stable funding for safeguarding critical education, public safety, health, sanitation, roads, social services, and infrastructure residents need to thrive."

"Today's vote is a win for Richmond's frontline workers, working families, and the public services that keep our city strong. Maintaining the current tax rate protects quality services, good union jobs, and the promise of a living wage for the people who make Richmond thrive," said Felicia Boney, SEIU Virginia 512 Richmond Chair.

Council also approved Mayor Avula's ORD. 2025-226 to add at least 246 new units of high-quality affordable homes in Richmond near jobs, transit, public parks, and amenities. "Affordable housing is essential to creating thriving, inclusive neighborhoods," said Merrick Malone, Director of Housing and Community Development. "This project reflects the kind of progress we need to see a real difference in affordable housing to ensure that every resident has access to a place to call home."

Mayor Avula also applauded the passage of another ordinance he patroned, ORD. 2025-191, as part of the RVA Green 2050 initiative. The measure authorizes a 35-year lease for a solar farm and pollinator meadow on a former East End landfill. Community members helped shape the project by prioritizing clean energy and green space. A Community Benefits Agreement will also invest in projects identified by nearby neighborhoods.