On Wednesday, November 19, Mayor Danny Avula presented to the Richmond and Redevelopment Housing Authority (RRHA) Board of Commissioners. View the full presentation and read his reflections below:

"As Mayor, I am committed to building a future in which every resident lives in a safe, high-quality, code-compliant home in a thriving neighborhood. The future of public housing in Richmond is one of the most important responsibilities we have as a city. We have a real opportunity to build a different model - one that expands opportunity for families, strengthens our neighborhoods, and engages and supports residents every step of the way.

The message I shared tonight with the RRHA Board of Commissioners was simple and heartfelt: redevelopment must be rooted in dignity, stability, and opportunity for every current resident.

To achieve that, we need two key ingredients. First, a shared governance model that brings the City, RRHA, Gilpin residents, and community partners to the table as equals to guide decisions and ensure transparency. Second, a great People Plan that guarantees every family access to high-quality housing, support to remain lease-compliant, and connections to childcare, education, workforce opportunities, and health resources.

If we pair shared governance and a great People Plan with the redevelopment work ahead, we can set a new standard for resident-centered public housing transformation and ensure Gilpin families remain at the heart of Gilpin's future."

-Mayor Danny Avula