Richmond City Council: March 2012

Friday, March 30, 2012

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force to hold meeting

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, March 30, 2012

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force to hold meeting

All residents are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force will hold a meeting. The purpose of the Task Force is to make recommendations to Richmond City Council with regard to enhancing mass transit in the Metro-Richmond area and the efficiency and effectiveness of the GRTC Transit System. The meeting is free and open to the public and all residents are invited and encouraged to attend.

WHEN Thursday, April 12, 2012
4:00-6:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Department of Economic Development
Richmond Main Street Station - 3rd Floor Conference Room
1500 East Main Street; Richmond, Virginia 23219
(PARKING: Free parking is available on the west side of the building by using the Franklin Street Entrance and using the lot below the Interstate. When facing the Train Station from the Franklin Street Entrance, make a right and park towards the Clock Tower end. When facing the building from the parking lot, the entrance door to the Richmond Department of Economic Development is located on the right of the building.)

WHO Members of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce W. Tyler, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com.

Background ____________________________________________________________________________

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force
Richmond City Council established the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force on September 27, 2010 by Richmond City Council Ordinance No. 2010-173-166.

The objective of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force is to provide a report to Council within in a year of its first meeting which recommends the following:

1. Any legislation, plans, policies, and programs that promote efficient mass transit in the city;

2. Economic development, economic growth, employment and tourism strategies that include public transportation; and,

3. Public relations and education programs to increase public use of mass transit.

4. The Task Force shall also work with interested private organizations to improve the service and efficiency of the GRTC.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Richmond City Council to introduce FY 2013 Richmond Government Budget amendments Tomorrow: Public Hearing on Amendments to be held Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED Monday, 30 April 2012 Richmond City Council to introduce FY 2013 Richmond Government Budget amendments Tomorrow: Public Hearing on Amendments to be held Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. Citizens interested in speaking on budget amendments are invited to attend the Formal Council Meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. (Richmond, Virginia) -- Following eight months of preparation, consideration and review, Richmond City Council will introduce Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget amendments tomorrow night, Tuesday, May 1, 2012 during a scheduled special meeting. No Public Hearing on Budget Amendments to be held during this meeting. The current proposed draft Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget is $1,485,564,478. A Public Hearing on the budget amendments will be held during the Richmond City Council Formal Meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012. This Formal Public Hearing will conclude with the establishment of the Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget. Citizens interested in speaking on the budget amendments are invited and encouraged to attend the Formal Council Meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. WHEN Council Introduces FY 2013 Richmond Government Budget amendments No Public Hearing on Budget Amendments to be held during this meeting. Tuesday, May 1, 2012 5:00-6:30 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING FY 2013 Richmond Government Budget amendments Monday, May 14, 2012 6:00-7:30 p.m. WHERE Richmond City Council Chambers Richmond City Hall 900 E. Broad Street - 2nd Floor Richmond, Virginia WHO The Honorable Members of Richmond City Council CONTACT Residents are invited and encouraged to share their comments, questions and concerns with Richmond City Councilmember representing them, using the following contact information: Member of the 2009–2012 RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL ________________ PRESIDENT (2011-2012) The Honorable Kathy Graziano Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Southwest 4th District 804.320.2454 (office tel); 640.9594 (mobile) kathy.graziano@richmondgov.com (email) VICE PRESIDENT (2011-2012) The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Gateway 6th District 804.646.7964 (office tel); 314.7658 (mobile) ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email) West End 1st District The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman Richmond City Council - West End 1st District 804.357.6007 (mobile) bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com (email) North Central 2nd District The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman Richmond City Council - North Central 2nd District 804.646.6532 (office tel); 690.0898 (mobile) charles.samuels@richmondgov.com (email) Northside 3rd District The Honorable Christopher A. Hilbert, Councilman Richmond City Council - Northside 3rd District 804.646.6055 (office tel) 306.0875 (mobile) chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com (email) Central 5th District The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman Richmond City Council - Central 5th District 804.646.5724 (office tel); 332.3654 (mobile) marty.jewell@richmondgov.com (email) East End 7th District The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman* Richmond City Council - East End 7th District 804.646.3012 (office tel); 241.7544 (mobile) cynthia.newbille@richmondgov.com (email) *Elected November 3, 2009 in special local election Southside 8th District The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman Richmond City Council - Southside 8th District 804.646.6591 (office tel); 240.5050 (mobile); 233.7382 (home) reva.trammell@richmondgov.com (email) South Central 9th District The Honorable Douglas G. Conner, Jr., Councilman Richmond City Council - South Central 9th District 804.646.5497 (office tel); 363.3443 (mobile) doug.conner@richmondgov.com (email) _____________________________________________________________ For updated meeting information, please contact the Richmond City Council Office of the City Clerk, at 804.646.7955. For more information regarding Richmond City Council, please contact Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager, Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff, at 804.646.6052 (o); or, steven.skinner@richmondgov.com Background ___________________________________________________________________________ As Americans, we pool our resources in order to own and operate our citizen-run governments. In doing so, we decide how we want our community to operate (laws); what public services we invest in (funding); the priority (investment levels) of services; and, how we pay for them (taxes/fees). As the governing body of Richmond, Richmond City Council represents residents in determining the laws and government services they want. Thus, each year Richmond City Council establishes an annual Richmond Government Budget (In practice: An initial biennial (2-yr.) fiscal plan budget is established that is further amended in its second year.) and establishes a Richmond Real Estate Tax Rate to help pay for some of it (estimated 15%). Richmond is currently in the second year of a two-year fiscal plan. Our Richmond government services include the management and delivery such things as the administration, management and delivery of clean/safe drinking water, streets and parks; trash/leaf/sewage removal; public transportation; police; firefighting/rescue; economic development; and, educating our children. Our Richmond Government Budget includes the following six components: Richmond General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, and Federal, State and additional funds for Richmond Public Schools. Our Richmond Government operates on a Fiscal Year running July 1 to June 30 annually. The current Richmond Government Budget for FY 2012 is $1,447,745,909 and was established by Richmond City Council on May 23, 2011. It began July 1, 2011 and ends June 30, 2012. Richmond City Council's review and establishment of a new budget for the upcoming fiscal year includes more than a dozen public meetings, hearings and work sessions. At the conclusion of the deliberations, Council will vote to officially establish an official Richmond Government Budget for the upcoming Fiscal Year (FY), which runs from July 1 to June 30 annually. Our Official Richmond Government Budget takes the form of laws, which are approved by Council as Ordinances. Council is scheduled to vote to establish a final budget during its regular Formal Council Meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The Richmond City Government Budget runs from July 1 to June 30 annually and the City operates on a two-year fiscal plan (Budget) that includes City General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan, Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, the City’s contribution to Richmond Public Schools and additional state, federal, and other funds provided to Richmond Public Schools. The Budget is typically amended every year. Each year, Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend any and all of the public meetings and budget work sessions. While there is no public comment during the work sessions, citizens are invited to publicly address Council regarding the Budget during the Council Public Hearings. Richmond City Council ____________________________________________________________ Mission - The mission of Richmond City Council is to represent citizens in creating and amending local laws, providing government policy and oversight, and approving the city budget. Vision - Richmond City Council is committed to creating a vibrant community that is a great place to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family. - End -

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force to hold meeting

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, March 30, 2012

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force to hold meeting

All residents are invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force will hold a meeting. The purpose of the Task Force is to make recommendations to Richmond City Council with regard to enhancing mass transit in the Metro-Richmond area and the efficiency and effectiveness of the GRTC Transit System. The meeting is free and open to the public and all residents are invited and encouraged to attend.

WHEN Thursday, April 12, 2012
4:00-6:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Department of Economic Development
Richmond Main Street Station - 3rd Floor Conference Room
1500 East Main Street; Richmond, Virginia 23219
(PARKING: Free parking is available on the west side of the building by using the Franklin Street Entrance and using the lot below the Interstate. When facing the Train Station from the Franklin Street Entrance, make a right and park towards the Clock Tower end. When facing the building from the parking lot, the entrance door to the Richmond Department of Economic Development is located on the right of the building.)

WHO Members of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce W. Tyler, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com.

Background ____________________________________________________________________________

Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force
Richmond City Council established the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force on September 27, 2010 by Richmond City Council Ordinance No. 2010-173-166.

The objective of the Richmond City Council GRTC and Transit Study Task Force is to provide a report to Council within in a year of its first meeting which recommends the following:

1. Any legislation, plans, policies, and programs that promote efficient mass transit in the city;

2. Economic development, economic growth, employment and tourism strategies that include public transportation; and,

3. Public relations and education programs to increase public use of mass transit.

4. The Task Force shall also work with interested private organizations to improve the service and efficiency of the GRTC.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to take part in dedication of Virginia Historic Marker honoring the late African American Broadway star Charles S. Gilpin

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 30 March 2012

Councilman Chris A. Hilbert to take part in dedication of Virginia Historic Marker honoring the late African American Broadway star Charles S. Gilpin today

Renowned 20th Century African American stage actor and major contributor to the Harlem Renaissance

WHAT The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman, Richmond City Council Northside 3rd District, will join the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority and the Virginia Department of Historic Resources today for the unveiling of an historic marker dedicated to Richmond native Charles S. Gilpin (November 20, 1878- May 6, 1930). This event is free and open to the public and the entire Richmond-metro Community is invited and encouraged to attend.

The marker will be placed near Gilpin's childhood home of 922 St. Peter Street, which is now the Gilpin Court Neighborhood that was named in his honor by the Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority. Gilpin, a renowned 20th Century African American stage actor, was a major contributor to the Harlem Renaissance in New York during the early part of the 20th Century.

As per the Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting, on March 9, 2012, the Gilpin Court Neighborhood, which was part of
the Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District, is now located in the Richmond Northside 3rd Voter District.

WHEN Friday, March 30, 2012
4:00- 4:45 p.m.

WHERE Corner of St. Peter and Charity streets in the Gilpin Court Neighborhood
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert, Councilman,
Richmond City Council, Northside 3rd District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Chris A. Hilbert, at 804.646.6055 or chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Councilmen Samuels and Tyler remind Richmond residents that the Monument Avenue 10k and Kids Run will be held Saturday and to make parking and travel

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 29 March 2012

Councilmen Samuels and Tyler remind Richmond residents that the Monument Avenue 10k and Kids Run will be held Saturday and to make parking and travel plans accordingly

WHAT The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, North Central 2nd District and The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District remind Richmond residents that the annual Monument Avenue 10k and Kids Run will be held this Saturday and to plan accordingly as they will impact the availability of parking and travel during this time.

The races will be held on two street courses located in Richmond's North Central 2nd District and the West End 1st District. For course maps, schedule of events and more information on the races, residents are invited to visit the Richmond Sports Backers race website, at http://www.sportsbackers.org/events/course-maps

WHEN Saturday, March 31, 2012

WHERE City of Richmond

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Charles R. Samuels, at 804.646.6532; or by email, at charles.samuels@richmondgov.com and/or Councilman Bruce W. Tyler, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Councilman Conner invites Richmond students (ages 12-17) and their parents to the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission Care

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 29 March 2012

Councilman Conner invites Richmond students (ages 12-17) and their parents to the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission Career Night Reception at the Richmond Technical Center

Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission

WHAT The Honorable Doug G. Conner, Councilman, Richmond City Council Southside 9th District, invites Richmond Public Schools students (ages 12-18) and their parents to attend the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission Career Night Reception at the Richmond Technical Center. This event is free and open to the public.

Sponsored by the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission, the purpose of the event is to expose students and parents to the wide-range of meaningful careers available and to showcase the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission and the Richmond Public Schools Richmond Technical Center.

The program for the event will include:

• The Honorable Mayor Dwight C. Jones, Mayor of Richmond
• The Honorable Doug G. Conner, Councilman,
Richmond City Council Southside 9th District
• Yvonne Brandon, Superintendent, Richmond Public Schools
• Free food and refreshments
• Information on apprenticeship programs
• Student project displays
• Free program materials

WHEN Tuesday, April 3, 2012
6:30-8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools
Richmond Technical Center
2020 Westwood Avenue
Richmond, Virginia 23230

CONTACT For more information, please contact Eli Wong, Legislative Liaison for Councilman Doug G. Conner, Richmond City Council, South Central 9th District, at 804.363/3443, or eli.wong@richmondgov.com; or Roy Reynolds, at 69kodiak@gmail.com.

Background on the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission
Established by Richmond City Council on December 14, 2009 by Council Resolution number 2009-R166-194, the Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission was born out of a Career and Technical Education Task Force organized in 2007 by Councilman Doug Conner. On November 28, 2007, Richmond City Council held a Richmond Regional Forum on Career and Technical Education that included presentations and discussions on model schools from around the country. Since that time the members of the Task Force and Commission have been holding regular organizational and planning meetings.

The goal of the Commission is to explore the development of career and technical education options for K-12th grade students, young adults, displaced workers and those reentering the workforce and to identify and review various existing career and technical education providers to determine which are employing “best practices” educational and training techniques and which might be the best model for Richmond. The Commission is to provide Richmond Public Schools with its final recommendations concerning the provision of career and technical education within 12 months of the final member being appointed to the Commission. Members of the Commission are still being appointed.

The Richmond City Council Career and Technical Education Commission includes the following 21 members:

• A Member of the Richmond City Council Health, Human Services and Education Standing Committee, who shall serve as Chairman;
• A member of the Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees;
• A representative from the Richmond Public Schools Administration;
• A representative from the Richmond Public Schools Richmond Technical Center Advisory Board
• A representative from the Richmond Department of Economic Development
• A representative from the Greater Richmond Partnership;
• A representative from the Richmond Capital Regional Workforce Investment Board;
• A representative from the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), a federation of international labor unions.
• A representative from the Greater Richmond Chamber of Commerce;
• Ten at-large members who shall either be Richmond residents or operated businesses in the city; and
• Two members appointed by the Mayor by letter to the Richmond City Council Office of the City Clerk.

Richmond City Council has previously appropriated $75,000 to assist a study on the ways to enhance vocational and technical education options within the city of Richmond.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Friday, March 23, 2012

Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission to hold Strategic Planning Meeting

Thursday, March 22, 2012

New Richmond Voter District Maps representing City of Richmond

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS RELEASE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Thursday, 22 March 2012

New Richmond Voter District Maps representing City of Richmond

Per the Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting process

(Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) -- Attached are 10 New Richmond Voting Districts Maps, these includes one large detailed Richmond Voting District map and nine individual detailed maps that represent the nine new Richmond Voting Districts that were established during Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting process that took place from November 2009 to March 2012. These maps are also stored on the City of Richmond website and can be accessed via the following link: http://eservices.ci.richmond.va.us/applications/maplibrary/maps.asp?library=council_districts

Happening only once every decade, the core intensive work of the Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting was performed during six comprehensive stages and resulted in the establishment of a new Richmond Voter District Boundary Plan, established on November 28, 2011, as Council Ordinance # 2011-185 (As Amended), and changes to Richmond Voting Precincts and Richmond Voting Locations/Polling Places, established on January 9, 2012. Richmond received preclearance from the U.S. Department of Justice to begin official use of the map/plan on March 9, 2012.

Preclearance by the U.S. Department of Justice was in response a formal request package that was sent for review and preclearance on behalf of Richmond City Council on January 10, 2012 by the Richmond Office of the City Attorney to the United States Department of Justice (in Accordance with the Untied States of America Code of Federal Regulations (28 C.F.R. §§ 51.27 AND 51.28). The formal request package is available on the Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting Website, at http://www.richmondgov.com/Redistricting/index.aspx

The Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting process represented more than two years of dedicated public process that included thousands of hours of work and hundreds of pages of documents.

WHO The Honorable Members of Richmond City Council

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond City Council 2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting plans or process, Richmond citizens should contact the Richmond City Council Councilmember (contact information below) that represents them or Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager, Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff, at 804.646.6052 (o); or, steven.skinner@richmondgov.com

BACKGROUND __________________________________________________________________________

2011 Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting
We, as Americans, govern ourselves at the state, local and national level and choose (elect) fellow citizens to assist us with the ownership and operation of our government. In order to do this, we organize ourselves into geographical areas (districts) based on population and we use these "voter districts" to determine where we vote, which positions we vote for and who we wish to represent us. This self-governance includes deciding how tax monies are invested; what laws are needed; and, what types of services are provided and how they are managed.

As populations shift over time, we redraw (redistrict) these areas to reflect population changes and help ensure everyone is represented as fairly as possible. Thus, every 10 years (decennially), we perform a United States Census to gather statistical information about ourselves and we use this (in accordance with state, local and federal guidelines) to update the boundary lines of our voting districts.

In 2011, Richmond City Council redistricted (redrew) the existing nine Richmond Voter District boundaries that we use to elect our local Richmond Elected Government Officials (which include: Members of Richmond City Council, Mayor of Richmond, Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees) in response to results of the 2010 U.S. Census. Adjustments to voting precincts and locations were subsequently made as well.

From 2000-2010, Richmond's population increased from 197,790 to 204,214 and population shifts occurred. Changes included (among others) a sizable population increase (+3,862) in the old North Central 2nd District and significant decreases (-3,460) in the old Northside 3rd District. The new Richmond Decennial Voter District Redistricting plan attempts to equalize the number of residents in each Richmond Voter District based on city population shifts reported by the 2010 U.S. Census, represents an overall percentage population variance between the nine Richmond Voter Districts of 8.2 percent.

New Richmond Voter Districts were based on the 2010 Census population figures for Richmond (available from U.S. Census website, at www.census.gov) and the following criteria (the first five of which are mandatory) and the following four were adopted by Richmond City Council, by Council Resolution on February 28, 2011:

1. Equal population (Making voter districts, as near equal population as possible.)
2. Compactness (Making voter district shapes as closely packed as possible.)
3. Contiguity (Making voter district physically encompassed/connected, which may include spanning water.)
4. Avoidance of split U.S. Census Blocks (Not dividing the smallest geographic unit of census data when forming precincts/districts.)
5. Compliance with the Voting Rights Act (Redistricting Plan must comply with the U.S. Voting Rights Act and be approved by the U. S. Department of Justice
6. The 2011 redistricting plan should, if possible, avoid splits of voting precincts between the Council, School Board, state legislative and congressional election districts.
7. The 2011 redistricting plan should maximize voter convenience and the effective administration of elections.
8. The 2011 redistricting plan should preserve communities of interest.
9. The 2011 redistricting plan should, if possible, consolidate smaller voting precincts so that the number of registered voters in each precinct is at least the statewide average of 2,013.

As Richmond citizens, we use our Richmond Voter Districts to elect the following positions that are established in the Richmond City Charter:

Richmond City Charter Officials
• Members of Richmond City Council, the governing Body of Richmond, (elected by Richmond Voter District to serve four-year terms)
• A Mayor (who must receive the most votes in at least five of the nine Richmond Voter Districts and who serves a 4-year term)
• Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees (elected by Richmond Voter District to serve four-year terms)

Virginia Constitutional Officers (Elected Government Officials)
Additional local positions we elect persons to include Virginia Constitutional Officers, which serve at the Richmond level but are established by the Virginia Constitution and are independent of local government. These positions are elected in Richmond citywide (not by district) but voting may be affected due to changes to voting precincts and locations, they include:

• A Richmond Sheriff (Commonwealth of Virginia) (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)
• A Virginia Commonwealth’s Attorney of Richmond (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)
• A Richmond Clerk of the Court (Supreme Court of Virginia) (elected citywide to serve an 8-year term)
• A Richmond Treasurer (Commonwealth of Virginia) (elected citywide to serve a 4-year term)

National and State Elected Government Officials
Voting for the following national and state positions may also be affected due to changes to Richmond voting precincts and locations (Note: Decennial redistricting of voter districts in which these positions are elected will be performed in 2011 by the Virginia General Assembly:
• A President/Vice President of the United States of America (elected nationally to serve a 4-year term)
• Members of the United States Senate (elected statewide to serve 6-year terms)
• Members of the United States House of Representatives (elected by state districts to serve 2-year terms)
• Members of the Virginia State Senate (elected by state districts to serve 4-year terms)
• Members of the Virginia House of Delegates (elected by state districts to serve 2-year terms)

Member of the 2009–2012 RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL _____________________________________

PRESIDENT (2009-2010 and 2011-2012)
The Honorable Kathy Graziano

VICE PRESIDENT (2009-2010 and 2011-2012)
The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson
_________________________________________________________________________________________

West End 1st District
The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman
Richmond City Council - West End 1st District
804.357.6007 (mobile)
bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com (email)

North Central 2nd District
The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman
Richmond City Council - North Central 2nd District
804.646.6532 (office tel); 690.0898 (mobile)
charles.samuels@richmondgov.com (email)

Northside 3rd District
The Honorable Christopher A. Hilbert, Councilman
Richmond City Council - Northside 3rd District
804.646.6055 (office tel) 306.0875 (mobile)
chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com (email)

Southwest 4th District
The Honorable Kathy Graziano
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Southwest 4th District
804.320.2454 (office tel); 339.8393 (mobile)
kathy.graziano@richmondgov.com (email)

Central 5th District
The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman
Richmond City Council - Central 5th District
804.646.5724 (office tel); 332.3654 (mobile)
marty.jewell@richmondgov.com (email)

Gateway 6th District
The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Gateway 6th District
804.646.5724 (office tel); 314.7658 (mobile)
ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email)

East End 7th District
The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman*
Richmond City Council - East End 7th District
804.646.3012 (office tel)
cynthia.newbille@richmondgov.com (email)
*Elected November 3, 2009 in special local election

Southside 8th District
The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman
Richmond City Council - Southside 8th District
804.646.6592 (office tel); 240.5050 (mobile)
reva.trammell@richmondgov.com (email)

South Central 9th District
The Honorable Douglas G. Conner, Jr., Councilman
Richmond City Council - South Central 9th District
804.646.6592 (office tel); 512,0500 (mobile)
doug.conner@richmondgov.com (email)

MAILING ADDRESS/WEBSITE

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Hall - 900 East Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219 - 804.646.7955
www.council.richmondva.gov (website)

Richmond City Council __________________________________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council is to represent citizens in creating and amending local laws, providing government policy and oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to creating a vibrant community that is a great place to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

- end -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Wednesday, March 21, 2012

Updated: Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille and Delegate Delores L. McQuinn invite everyone to attend the Richmond 9th Annual Heritage Celebration:

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Wednesday, 21 March 2012

Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille and Delegate Delores L. McQuinn invite everyone to attend the Richmond 9th Annual Heritage Celebration: Celebrating African American Women Achievers

This event is free and open to the public

WHAT The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, and The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District, invite the entire Richmond-metro community to attend the Richmond 9th Annual Heritage Celebration: Celebrating African American Women Achievers. The celebration will be a fun-filled event for the entire family and is free and open to the public. Everyone is invited and encouraged to attend. The event will include:

• Guest Speaker, Dr. Sulayman Clark, Author, "The Rains"

• Free Theatrical Theatre IV Presentation of "The Oliver Hill Story"
(begins at 1:30 p.m.)

• The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City
Council East End 7th District

• The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of
Delegates Voter District 70

• The African American Experience - Panel Discussion
The Honorable Henry L. Marsh, Senator
Senate of Virginia - Voter District 12
The Honorable Melvin Law, President
Richmond Chapter of the NAACP
Rev. Marcus Martin, Pastor, New Bridge Baptist Church
Dr. Kim Allen, Interim Executive Director
Martin Luther King, Jr. Living History and Public Policy Center

• 2012 Virginia General Assembly Report
The Honorable Henry L. Marsh, Senator
Senate of Virginia - Voter District 12
The Honorable Joseph D. Morrissey, Delegate
Virginia House of Delegates - Voter District 74
The Honorable Betsy Carr, Delegate,
Virginia House of Delegates - Voter District 69

• Free Entertainment

• Free Soul Food Dinner

• Free Admission

The Richmond 9th Annual Heritage Celebration: Celebrating African American Women Achievers is personally sponsored by The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, and The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District.

WHEN Saturday, March 24, 2012
1:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Theatrical Theatre IV Presentation of "The Oliver Hill Story" begins at 1:30 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools
Franklin Military Academy Auditorium
701 North 37th Street
Richmond, Virginia

WHO The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District; and,
The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District,

CONTACT For more information please contact Sam Patterson, District Liaison for The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, at 804.646.3012; or sam.patterson@richmodngov.com.
and/or

Keith Westbrook, Legislative Assistant for The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond Slave Trail Commission (Member, Virginia House of Delegates -70th Voter District) at 804.698.1070, or deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov

- end -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission 2012 Regular Schedule of Meetings

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Monday, 19 March 2012

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission 2012 Regular Schedule of Meetings

All Citizens invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission holds monthly meetings
regarding its work and ongoing projects in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The meetings are scheduled to be held the first Thursday of each month, beginning at 4:00 p.m., at the same location. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. The agenda for these meeting typically include the following:

• Welcome
• New Business
• Updates
• Committee Reports
• Charette
• Upcoming Events
• Closing Remarks/Adjournment

WHEN Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
2012 Regular Schedule of Meetings

Thursday, April 5, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, May 3, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, June 7, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, July 5, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, August 2, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, September 6, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, October 4, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, November 1, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 6, 2012; 4:00-5:30 p.m.

WHERE Richmond East District Initiative Government Services Building
701 N. 25th Street (In Richmond’s Historic East End)

WHO The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, Delegate, Virginia House of Delegates 70th District,

The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission

CONTACT For more information regarding the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, please contact The Honorable Delores L. McQuinn, Chairman, Richmond Slave Trail Commission (Member, Virginia House of Delegates -70th Voter District) at 804.698.1070, or deldmcquinn@house.virginia.gov
or
The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council East End 7th District, Member, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission, at 804.646.3012; or cynthia.newbille@richmodngov.com.

Background _________________________________________________________________________

Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission
The Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is a government entity of Richmond City Council that was established by Resolution Number 98-R 102-107, adopted July 13, 1998, as amended by Resolution No. 2000-R111-109, adopted July 24, 2000, as amended by Resolution No. 2003-R132-123, adopted July 14, 2003, as amended by Resolution No. 2003-R155-141, adopted September 8, 2003, as amended by Resolution No. 2004-R125-131, adopted June 28, 2004.

The purpose of the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission is to assist Council with oversight and assistance in helping to preserve and present the history of slavery in Richmond. The Commission meets monthly and includes 17 members that are appointed by Council to serve for three year terms. The composition of membership is as follows:

The Commission shall be composed of seventeen (17) members. Such persons shall be appointed by the Council and shall serve for terms of three (3) years. The membership of the Commission shall include at least one (1) member of City Council, not less than three (3) members of the “Hope in the Cities” organization and a representative from the Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities. Any appointed Council members shall be given the first option of serving as the Chair of the Commission in order of their appointment. Five members of the Commission shall constitute a quorum for meetings.

Over the years, Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission has worked on a number of important projects, which have included:

• 2011
Unveiling of 17 Richmond Slave Trail Markers located throughout the Shockoe Bottom area of Richmond, marking sites that help tell the historic journey, human impact, and the role Richmond played in the tragic history of slavery.

The Richmond Slave Trail Markers will serve to recognize the regrettable time in our nation’s history when parts of the United States allowed the enslavement of fellow human beings and an estimated 8 percent of U.S. families owned slaves just before the U.S. Civil War. The site of the event and location of one of the 17 markers, Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave-holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. The Confederate Army surrendered Richmond, the Capital of the Confederacy, on April 3, 1865.

Following shortly after the end of the U. S. Civil War, which ended in Virginia on April 9, 1865, the Thirteenth Amendment to the United States of America Constitution was adopted on December 6, 1865. This amendment officially abolished slavery. A precursor for this amendment was the Emancipation Proclamation, an Executive Order signed by President Abraham Lincoln, on January 1, 1863, which proclaimed the freedom of slaves living in states under Confederate control.

• 2009
Development of the conceptual Richmond National Slavery Museum
Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance and financial support for the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission. Council staff support includes providing fiscal management, public information, writing, publication creation, graphic design, special event and project management, promotions and fundraising. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.

• 2009
Development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program, Signage and
Commemorative Site: Lumpkin’s Slave Jail

• 2008
Discovery of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail historic foundation and architectural
artifacts.

• 2008 – 2009
Phase II Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment: which
included engineering and storm water engineering

• 2007
Richmond International Unveiling of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue on Friday, March 30, 2007, erected at 15th and E. Main Streets. Included design and construction of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza and erection of the statue. This project was part of a global initiative placing three statues in three countries. Dedicated to slavery reconciliation, the installation of the statue represents nearly 10 years of work between the City of Richmond, Virginia, USA (North America), Liverpool, England (Europe), and the Republic of Benin (Africa). A statue was erected in Liverpool in 1989 and the Republic of Benin in August 2005.

• 2006
Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment
Lumpkin's Slave Jail was the largest slave holding facility in operation in Richmond, Virginia from 1840 until the end of the U.S. Civil War in 1865. During that time, Richmond was home to the largest domestic slave export business in the United States. Owned by Robert Lumpkin, the jail was a place that tens of thousands of African men, women and children were "stored" before being transported to slave owners living in states where slavery was legal. Following Lumpkin's death shortly after the Civil war, his common law widowed wife Mary Lumpkin, who was African-American, inherited the estate. In 1867, she leased the jail to Reverend Nathaniel Colver, who established a school for freed slaves at the site. Founded by the American Baptist Home Missionary Society and the National Theological Institute, the school grew into what is now Virginia Union University.

• 2003
Acquisition of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue. For three quarters of the 18th Century, Virginia (North America), Liverpool, England (Europe), and the Republic of Benin (Africa) represented one of the largest global commercial trade triangles of enslaved Africans. Liverpool's shipbuilding industry provided the vessels that sailed to the Kingdom of Dahomey, now the Republic of Benin, where Africans were loaded on ships and transported to the Americas, with Richmond, Virginia being one of the major recipients.

Support
Richmond City Council provides annual staff assistance as available and financial support for the Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission. Council staff support includes providing fiscal management, public information, writing, publication creation, graphic design, special event and project management. Additional staff support is provided by the Richmond City Administration through the Richmond Department of Economic Development, which includes project engineering and management.
Council financial support is provided through appropriations in the Richmond City Budget. This includes appropriations in the Richmond City Budget Capital Improvement Plan, Non-Departmental budgets and Departmental budgets. Funding is predicated on requests made by the Commission and as determined by Council.

Examples of Richmond City Council Slave Trail Commission financial investment support, per Fiscal Year (FY), include:

• FY 2011- $6,000
For general Commission support

• FY 2010- $6,000
For general Commission support

• FY 2009 - $75,000
For general Commission support ($30,000 - spent $5,124) and for development of the Richmond Slave Trail Marker Program; signage and commemorative site; Lumpkin’s Slave Jail; development of conceptual National Slavery Museum; and, paid sponsorship for Symposium at the University of Richmond for the Civil War Sesquicentennial.

• FY 2008 - $370,000
For general Commission support ($30,000 - spent $7,748) and for Phase II of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment, which included $155,000 for earthmoving and $35,000 for engineering and stormwater engineering (floodplain and proximity to I-95 berm) and $150,000 for archaeological services to hire a vendor.

• FY 2007 - $511,000
For general Commission support ($11,000) and design and construction of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statute plaza; erection of the statue; and, the International Unveiling of the Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue

• FY 2006 - $35,000
For Richmond Slave Trail Brochure Creation/Printing Phase I of Lumpkin’s Slave Jail Archaeological Assessment

• FY 2003 - $119,000
For acquisition (purchase) of Richmond Slavery Reconciliation Statue and freight
from the United Kingdom

Additional financial, staff and archeological support has also been provided by the Virginia Department of Historic Resources, Alliance to Conserve Old Richmond Neighborhoods, and a number of corporate, nonprofit and individual financial sponsors.

- end -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place

Councilwoman Cynthia I. Newbille and Delegate Delores L. McQuinn invite everyone to attend the Richmond 9th Annual Heritage Celebration: Celebrating A

Friday, March 16, 2012

10 High School Students from Japan arrive in Richmond on Tuesday

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 16 March 2012

10 High School Students from Japan arrive in Richmond on Tuesday

Public invited and encouraged to attend Welcoming Ceremony

WHAT Ten high school students and two teachers from Urawa Municipal High School in Saitama, Japan will arrive in Richmond on Tuesday to take part in a week-long scholastic and cultural exchange .

The students, 10 girls, will be visiting the Richmond Area for one week and be attending classes at Chesterfield County Public Schools Clover Hill High School as part the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission's Exchange Program between Richmond and its sister city, Saitama, Japan. This marks the 13th successful year of what began as a teacher exchange program between Richmond and Saitama in 1998.

WHEN Welcoming Ceremony
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
2:30-3:30 p.m. (estimated time of arrival)

WHERE Chesterfield County Public Schools - Clover Hill High School
13301 Kelly Green Lane, Midlothian, Virginia 23112

CONTACT For more information, please contact Miss Catherine E. Nexsen, Chairman of the Japan-Richmond Committee of the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission, at 919.902.4704 (mobile); 804.355.2780 (home); or 804.784.7630 (office)

BACKGROUND __________________________________________________________________________
One of Richmond City Council's 55 official boards, task forces and commissions that assist it with providing oversight of certain projects and priorities, the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission was established by Council in 1980 and operates under Council guidelines and by requirements of the Sister Cities International organization, located in Washington, D.C.

An early champion of international relations, Richmond began a relationship with its namesake, Richmond Upon Thames, England, in 1930. In 1956 a formal Sister City concept was established in the United States of America by U. S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower. President Eisenhower's idea called for exchanges between Americans and people in other countries, with a goal of fostering peace, understanding and harmony.

The term “Sister City” is used to express a closeness that is engendered through commonalities between communities. Formal friendships are then established to promote cultural understanding and educational and economic prosperity.

For example, cities linked with Richmond are generally capital cities with comparable populations, notable points of historic interest, and potential opportunities for economic development and trade.

Globally, there are more than 2,400 Sister City partnerships in 134 countries. Nineteen Virginia cities represent approximately 50 of those partnerships. This includes seven in Richmond.

Richmond Sister City Relationships
Richmond currently maintains the following Sister City relationships:
1. Richmond upon Thames, England (Europe)
2. Saitama City, Japan (Asia)
3. Olsztyn, Poland (Eastern Europe)
4. Uijeongbu, South Korea (Asia)
5. Windhoek, Namibia (Africa)
6. Zhengzhou, China (Asia)
7. Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa)

Interest
Throughout the year, Richmond City Council receives requests from citizens and interested cities regarding its Sister Cities Program, which are shared with the Commission.

Recent Sister Cities Activities _____________________________________________________________

Republic of Mali
Richmond’s partnership with Segou is Richmond's city’s newest Sister City relationship. Richmond and Segou became Sister Cities in 2009 following the adoption of Richmond City Council Resolution 2009-R99-109, adopted July 27, 2009 that invited Segou to be a formal Sister City of Richmond, and the formalization of the relationship in Richmond on October 12, 2009 with a visiting delegation of dignitaries from Segou.

In April 2010 Richmond was awarded a $115,000 grant from Sister Cities International for a two-year African Sustainability Project that will be used to assist with performing projects in Segou that will assist with addressing sanitation, health, and water issues. On May 10, 2010 Richmond City Council received and welcomed a visiting delegation from the Republic of Mali. The delegation included six members of the country’s government who were in Richmond for the day as part of a government training program sponsored by the Institute for Global Training, USAID in Washington D.C. and were being show state and local government by the University of Virginia Weldon Cooper Center’s Virginia Institute of Government.

On October 6, 2010 the Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission and members of Richmond City Council and the Richmond Government Administration welcomed The Honorable Ousmane K. Simaga, Mayor of Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa); The Honorable Madani Sissoko, Councilman, Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), President of the Segou Sister City Commission; and, a number of additional dignitaries from Segou, Republic of Mali (Africa), during its monthly meeting.

Richmond upon Thames
2008 visit from the Mayor and Councilmember's to Richmond; 2007 visit of Mayor and Councilmembers. Coordinated planning and events leading up to Virginia’s 400th-year celebration in 2007.

Zhenghou, China
Continue supporting teacher exchanges and exchanges of art and culture through museums, economic trips to China (conducted by Governor of Virginia with representation from Richmond). A book collection was presented to Richmond citizens from Zhengzhou citizens, which is displayed at the City’s Main Library.

Saitama, Japan
Annual student, academic, sports and cultural exchange programs.

Windhoek, Namibia
August 2007: the U.S. State Department brought a camera crew to Richmond from Windhoek coordinated events. July 2003: Richmond donated a Fire Truck to Windhoek.

Uijeongbu, South Korea
Includes relationships with the Richmond Korean community and business exchange as well as educational and cultural programs.

The Richmond City Council Sister Cities Commission consists of 13 members, of whom at least one is a Councilmember. Commission members are appointed by Richmond City Council for a term consisting of three years and no person appointed is eligible to serve more than two successive terms, although persons appointed to fill vacancies may serve two additional successive terms. Members appointed to the Commission are required to either reside or work in the City of Richmond. Originally comprised of 19 members, in 2009 membership was lowered to 13.

- end -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Wednesday, March 14, 2012

Councilman Bruce W. Tyler to hold meeting in the West End 1st District

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Wednesday, 14 March 2012

Councilman Bruce W. Tyler to hold meeting in the West End 1st District

Entire West End 1st District invited and encouraged to attend

WHAT
The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman, Richmond City Council, West End 1st District, will hold a meeting in the West End 1st District. Councilman Tyler holds individual meetings in Richmond’s West End 1st District throughout the year, typically at the same time and place, on the fourth Tuesday of every other month. His meetings include information on his goals and accomplishments, a thematic agenda of current interest and special guests. The meetings are free and all West End 1st District citizens are invited and encouraged to attend. This meeting will include:

Agenda ____________________________________________________

• Richmond Department of Public Works

• Public Safety Report on the West End 1st District
Richmond Police Department 3rd Precinct

• Comments, Questions and Concerns

WHEN Tuesday, 27 March 2012
6:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

WHERE Richmond Public Schools - Mary Munford Elementary School - Auditorium
211 Westmoreland Street (Between Cary Street and Grove Avenue in Richmond’s West End 1st District)

WHO The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman
Richmond City Council, West End 1st District

CONTACT For more information, please contact Councilman Bruce Tyler, at 804.357.6007; or bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com.

- E N D -

______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

UPDATED SCHEDULE: Richmond City Council schedule for establishing Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget

RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 200 - Richmond, VA 23219 - www.council.richmondva.gov

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS ADVISORY
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Tuesday 13 March 2012
UPDATED SCHEDULE: Richmond City Council schedule for establishing Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget

The Richmond Government Budget Includes: Richmond General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, and Federal, State and additional funds for Richmond Public Schools

(Richmond, Virginia) -- UPDATED SCHEDULE BELOW. As Americans, we pool our resources in order to own and operate our citizen-run governments. In doing so, we decide how we want our community to operate (laws); what public services we invest in (funding); the priority (investment levels) of services; and, how we pay for them (taxes/fees).

As the governing body of Richmond, Richmond City Council represents residents in determining the laws and government services they want. Thus, each year Richmond City Council establishes an annual Richmond Government Budget (In practice: An initial biennial (2-yr.) fiscal plan budget is established that is further amended in its second year.) and establishes a Richmond Real Estate Tax Rate to help pay for some of it (estimated 15%). Richmond is currently in the second year of a two-year fiscal plan.

Our Richmond government services include the management and delivery such things as the administration, management and delivery of clean/safe drinking water, streets and parks; trash/leaf/sewage removal; public transportation; police; firefighting/rescue; economic development; and, educating our children.

Our Richmond Government Budget includes the following six components: Richmond General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, and Federal, State and additional funds for Richmond Public Schools.

Our Richmond Government operates on a Fiscal Year running July 1 to June 30 annually. The current Richmond Government Budget for FY 2012 is $1,447,745,909 and was established by Richmond City Council on May 23, 2011. It began July 1, 2011 and ends June 30, 2012.

Richmond City Council's review and establishment of a new budget for the upcoming fiscal year will include more than a dozen public meetings, hearings and work sessions. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond residents are invited and encouraged to attend.

At the conclusion of the deliberations, Council will vote to officially establish an official Richmond Government Budget for the upcoming Fiscal Year (FY), which runs from July 1 to June 30 annually. Our Official Richmond Government Budget takes the form of laws, which are approved by Council as Ordinances. Council is scheduled to vote to establish a final budget during its regular Formal Council Meeting on Monday, May 14, 2012, beginning at 6:00 p.m.

The Richmond City Government Budget runs from July 1 to June 30 annually and the City operates on a two-year fiscal plan (Budget) that includes City General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan, Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, the City’s contribution to Richmond Public Schools and additional state, federal, and other funds provided to Richmond Public Schools. The Budget is typically amended every year.

Richmond citizens are invited and encouraged to attend any and all of the public meetings and budget work sessions. While there is no public comment during the work sessions, citizens are invited to publicly address Council regarding the Budget during the Council Public Hearings.

The following is the Richmond City Council Comprehensive Schedule for establishing the Fiscal Year 2013 Richmond Government Budget. It includes budget review, work sessions public hearings and action dates. This schedule is subject to change. For the latest times and locations, please call the Richmond City Council Office of the City Clerk, at 804.646.7955.

UPDATED: FY 2013 Council Budget Review Timeline
updated 3.13.2012/1531 hours/srs
Meetings to be held at Richmond City Hall, 2nd floor; 900 E. Broad St. Richmond, Virginia 23219

Date/Time Title Description Meeting Location
August 2011-February 2012
August 2011 - February 2012 Council Budget Review Council works with Administration to Review Budget needs Ongoing staff meetings Different locations
March
Tuesday
March 6, 2012
3:00 p.m. Budget Proposal submitted to Council by Mayor Council receives a proposed budget from Mayor Council Special Meeting Council Chambers
Friday
March 9, 2012
1:00 p.m. Internal Initial Budget Review Internal Staff meeting: Budget Meets with Council Staff for an Initial Budget Review Work Session Staff meetings 3rd Floor, Conference Room
Monday
March 12, 2012
2:30 p.m. Council Initial Budget Review Well-Managed Government
• Real Estate Tax Rate for 2013 &
Fee Changes
• Major Gen. Fund Expenditure Changes
• One-time Budget Items
• Debt Service Council Informal Meeting Council Chambers
Thursday
March 15, 2012
3:00 p.m.
Budget review begins 5:00 p.m. Finance Meeting begins at 3:00 p.m.
Council Budget Review begins at 5:00 p.m. Education and Workforce Development
• Richmond Public Schools Budget
• Review of Workforce Development
Goals, Budget Items & Initiatives
• City Personnel Complement
Changes (Position Eliminations)
• Unfunded Vacant Positions Council Finance & Economic Development Standing Committee Meeting Council Chambers
Moved to 20th
March 16, 2012
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Unique, Healthy Inclusive Communities/Neighb.
• Non-Departmental Budget Review
• Special Revenue Funds Review
• Latest Date for Federal Funds
Consolidated Plan/Budget Intro Special Budget Work Session Council Chambers
Monday
March 19, 2012
4:00 p.m.
Budget review begins 5:00 p.m. Public Safety Meeting begins at 4:00 p.m.Council Budget Review begins 5:00 p.m. Community Safety and Well-Being
• Police & Fire Budget Reviews
• E-911 System Update
• Constitutional Offices
• Unfunded Vacant Positions Council Public Safety Sanding Committee Meeting Council Chambers
Tuesday
March 20, 2012
6:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Unique, Healthy and Inclusive Communities and Neighborhoods
• Non-Departmental Budget Review
• Special Revenue Funds Review Council Land Use Standing Committee Meeting Council Chambers

Wednesday
March 21, 2012
4:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Unique, Healthy/Inclusive Communities & Neighborhoods & Economic Growth
• Human Services (RDSS, RJS, Hispanic
Liaison, RDCAO/HS, Library,
Parks/Recreation/Community Facilities) Council Health & Human Services Standing Committee Council Chambers
Thursday
March 22, 2012
4:00 p.m.
Budget review begins 5:00 p.m. Gov. Operations Meeting begins at 4:00 p.m.Council Budget Review begins 5:00 p.m. Transportation and
Sustainability and the Natural Environment
• Public Works
• Public Utilities Council Government Operations Standing Committee Council Chambers
Monday
March 26, 2012
2:30 p.m. Council Budget Review Well-Managed Government
• Employee Benefits and Human
Resource Issues (Joint Healthcare
Savings Update)
• Retirement System (Need to discuss
the remaining unfunded liability)
• Latest Date for Federal Funds
Consolidated Plan/Budget Intro Council Informal Meeting Council Chambers

April
Tuesday
April 3, 2012
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Capital Improvement Plan Initial Review Council Special Budget Work Session Council Chambers
Thursday
April 5, 2012
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Capital Improvement Plan Review (Cont.) - Initial Discussion of Council Amendments Council Special Budget Work Session Council Chambers
Monday
April 9, 2012
2:30 p.m. Council Budget Review Unique, Healthy and Inclusive Communities and Neighborhoods &
Economic Growth
• CDBG Funds/Federal Funds Review
• Mayor's Richmond Public Schools Accountability and Efficiency Review Task Force Report to Council Council Informal Meeting Council Chambers
Tuesday
April 10, 2012
6:00 p.m. Public Hearing on Budget Meeting to solicit the public's input on the budget Council Special Budget Public Hearing Council Chambers
Tuesday
April 17, 2012
3:00 p.m.
Budget review begins 5:00 p.m. Land Use Meeting begins at 3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review begins 5:00 p.m. Capital Improvement Plan
Amendment Discussions (If Needed)
• Council Agency Requests
• Amendment Discussions Council Land Use, Housing and Transportation Standing Committee Council Chambers
Thursday
April 19, 2012
3:00 p.m.
Budget Review begins 5:00 p.m. Finance Meeting begins at 3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review begins 5:00 p.m. • Council Agency Requests
• Final Discussion of Budget
Amendment Council Finance & Economic Development Standing Committee Council Chambers
Friday
April 20, 2012
10:00 a.m. DEADLINE:Council Amendments to City Attorney Council Staff Will Provide List of Budget Amendments to City Attorney's Office N/A N/A
Monday
April 23, 2012
6:00 p.m. Federal Funds Public Hearing Public Hearing Federal Funds Council Formal Meeting Council Chambers
Monday
April 23, 2012
6:00 p.m. Introduce Council Budget Amendments Amendments Introduced for All Budget Papers Council Formal Meeting Council Chambers
May
Tuesday
May 1, 2012
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Additional Meeting for Possible Discussion on Richmond Public Schools (After Virginia General Assembly Meetings) Council Special Budget Work Session Council Chambers
Thursday
May 3, 2012
5:00 p.m.
3:00 p.m. Council Budget Review Additional meeting if needed Council Special Budget Work Session Council Chambers
Monday
May 14, 2012
6:00 p.m. Public Hearing on Amendments & Budget Adoption Adopt all Budgets (including Federal Funds) at First Council Meeting in May Council Formal Meeting Council Chambers
Tuesday
May 15, 2012
N/A DEADLINE:Richmond Public Schools Budget Adoption Per State Law, Richmond Public Schools' Budget Must Be Adopted by May 15, 2012. N/A N/A
Tuesday
May 15, 2012
N/A Federal Funds Submission *DEADLINE* Pursuant to Federal Law, Federal Funds, Annual Plan and Budget must be submitted to U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development - No Later Than May 15, 2012. N/A N/A

CONTACT Residents are invited and encouraged to share their comments, questions and concerns with Richmond City Councilmember representing them, using the following contact information:

Member of the
2009–2012 RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL ________________

PRESIDENT (2011-2012)
The Honorable Kathy Graziano
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Southwest 4th District
804.320.2454 (office tel); 640.9594 (mobile)
kathy.graziano@richmondgov.com (email)

VICE PRESIDENT (2011-2012)
The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council - Gateway 6th District
804.646.7964 (office tel); 314.7658 (mobile)
ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email)

West End 1st District
The Honorable Bruce W. Tyler, Councilman
Richmond City Council - West End 1st District
804.357.6007 (mobile)
bruce.tyler@richmondgov.com (email)

North Central 2nd District
The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman
Richmond City Council - North Central 2nd District
804.646.6532 (office tel); 690.0898 (mobile)
charles.samuels@richmondgov.com (email)

Northside 3rd District
The Honorable Christopher A. Hilbert, Councilman
Richmond City Council - Northside 3rd District
804.646.6055 (office tel) 306.0875 (mobile)
chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com (email)

Central 5th District
The Honorable E. Martin Jewell, Councilman
Richmond City Council - Central 5th District
804.646.5724 (office tel); 332.3654 (mobile)
marty.jewell@richmondgov.com (email)

East End 7th District
The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille, Councilwoman*
Richmond City Council - East End 7th District
804.646.3012 (office tel); 241.7544 (mobile)
cynthia.newbille@richmondgov.com (email)
*Elected November 3, 2009 in special local election

Southside 8th District
The Honorable Reva M. Trammell, Councilwoman
Richmond City Council - Southside 8th District
804.646.6591 (office tel); 240.5050 (mobile); 233.7382 (home)
reva.trammell@richmondgov.com (email)

South Central 9th District
The Honorable Douglas G. Conner, Jr., Councilman
Richmond City Council - South Central 9th District
804.646.5497 (office tel); 363.3443 (mobile)
doug.conner@richmondgov.com (email)
_____________________________________________________________

For updated meeting information, please contact the Richmond City Council Office of the City Clerk, at 804.646.7955.

For more information regarding Richmond City Council, please contact Steve Skinner, Council Public Information Manager, Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff, at 804.646.6052 (o); or, steven.skinner@richmondgov.com

Richmond City Council ____________________________________________________________

Mission - The mission of Richmond City Council is to represent citizens in creating and amending local laws, providing government policy and oversight, and approving the city budget.

Vision - Richmond City Council is committed to creating a vibrant community that is a great place to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.

- End -
______________________________________
Steven R. Skinner, APR
Council Public Information Manager
RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
OFFICE OF THE COUNCIL CHIEF OF STAFF
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
steven.skinner@richmondgov.com (email)
www.council.richmondva.gov(website)
____________________________________________

MISSION The mission of Richmond City Council
is to represent citizens in creating and amending
local laws, providing government policy and
oversight, and approving the city budget.

VISION Richmond City Council is committed to
creating a vibrant community that is a great place
to live, work, learn, play, visit and raise a family.