Additionally, invites City Council and Henrico's Board of Supervisors to a joint public meeting

Richmond, VA - Mayor Danny Avula today announced invitations to regional partners to join together in conversations and planning about the future of the region's drinking water system. The goal is to form a regional advisory group and explore a path forward to ensure a strong and sustainable water infrastructure for all. The Mayor has invited neighboring localities Chesterfield, Hanover, and Henrico to join the City in this effort.

The advisory group would build on earlier conversations between City leadership and neighboring localities and recognizes that the future of drinking water in the region is a both an urgent challenge and regional opportunity.

The advisory group will work together to identify regional challenges, align priorities, and build consensus around strategies for drinking water system resilience. "With the launch of this new water advisory group, we are coming together for honest dialogue, shared problem-solving, and meaningful action," said Mayor Danny Avula. "I was elected to fix deeply entrenched problems, and that means working across jurisdictional lines with our neighbors, just like I've done in previous roles. We are closely connected with our regional partners, and it is vitally important that we intentionally plan for a resilient, thriving regional water system. I'm confident that by putting the greater Richmond region at the center of our solution, we can move forward with a shared approach that meets the needs of Richmonders and neighboring localities."

The water advisory group will hold a kickoff meeting in July. Work groups with subject matter experts will convene over the summer and fall to develop initial recommendations. A final consensus report outlining key recommendations is expected in spring 2026.

While the advisory group will include both elected officials and locality administrators, Mayor Avula has additionally invited all members of Richmond's City Council and Henrico's Board of Supervisors to convene a joint public meeting. This dedicated meeting of elected leaders will allow for open dialogue around the distinct needs and priorities of each locality. "The creative ideas, deep experience, and collaborative spirit Council brings to the table will be critical in shaping thoughtful solutions for the region," Mayor Danny Avula said. A public notice of this meeting will be issued in the coming weeks.