Friday, February 26, 2016

Updated: Richmond City Council schedule for establishing the FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget

Richmond City Council – Richmond City Hall - 900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305 - Richmond, Virginia  23219 U.S.A.  - www.council.richmondva.gov
                                                            
COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS RELEASE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 26 February 2016

Updated: Richmond City Council schedule for establishing the FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget

The Richmond Government Budget includes: General Fund, Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), Special Funds, Enterprise Funds, Internal Service Funds, Federal and State funds and funds provided to Richmond Public Schools.
         
WHAT        (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) - The Richmond City Council Budget Review and Approval Schedule for establishing the Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget is listed below.

                      The schedule includes special meetings, public hearings and action dates. Richmond Residents are invited and encouraged to contact the Councilmember representing them in their Richmond Voter District regarding the budget and/or to attend public budget meetings.

                           Residents may publicly address the full body of Richmond City Council regarding the Budget during scheduled Public Hearings (Note: Council Budget Work Sessions do not include public comment periods, but are open to the public).

                           This schedule is a working outline and dates/times/locations are subject to updates/change.

Richmond City Council FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget 
Review/Amendment/Approval Schedule
Most Public Meetings to be held in Richmond City Hall; 900 E. Broad St. Richmond, Virginia 23219 U.S.A.
NOTE: This schedule is subject to updates.

      
Date/Time
Description
Location
July/Oct. 2015
July/August/Sept./Oct.
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff
works on budget review and prepares Council Budget Retreat
Various locations
October 2015
Monday, October 19, 2015
Noon - 5:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Richmond City Council Budget Retreat
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff coordinates presentations for Council in preparation of Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget as follows:
   
·   Richmond Regional Economy
·   Richmond Real Estate Assessments and Budget Impact
·   Richmond Government Budget Debt Capacity and Impact on Upcoming Capital Budgets
·   Richmond City Council Approved Fiscal Year 2017 Plan
·   Richmond Government Budget Expenditures
·   Discussion: Richmond City Council Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget Priorities
·    2016 Virginia General Assembly Legislative Agenda/Proposals
Virginia Union University
Claude G. Perkins Living and Learning Center - 1500 N. Lombardy Street Richmond, Virginia
November 2015
November 9, 2015
6:00-8:00 p.m.

During Richmond City Council Formal Meeting
Public Meeting: Richmond City Council Formal Meeting 
Richmond City Council establishes Richmond Real Estate Tax Rate by Ordinance during scheduled Richmond City Council Formal Meeting. Richmond City Council kept low Rate, at $1.20 per $100. Council has kept lowest rate in more than 30 years. (2008-present rate is at $1.20/$100); The rate was $2.12 in 1980)
Richmond City Council Chambers
November 2015
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff works on budget and holds meetings with Administration.
Various locations
December 2015
December 2015
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff works on budget and holds meetings with Administration.
Various locations
December 2015
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff drafts Richmond City Council FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget Review/Amendment/Approval Schedule.

December 2015
TBA
Public Meeting
Mayor/Administration to submit Richmond Comprehensive Annual Financial Report
Richmond City Council Chambers
January 2016
January 2016
TBA
Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees to receive Richmond Public Schools Superintendent’s Proposed FY 2017 Richmond Public Schools Budget
As determined
February 2016
February 2016
Public Meeting
Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees to approve the
FY 2017 Richmond Public Schools Budget, which is to be transmitted to Mayor/Administration.
TBD
February 2016
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff prepares for Council Budget review.

March 2016
Friday, March 4, 2016
3:00-4:00 p.m.
   
Public Meeting: Richmond City Council Special Meeting
Mayor to submit to Richmond City Council a proposed FY 2017 Richmond (Biennial) Government Budget (To include: Proposed budgets, a budget message and a Proposed Richmond Capital Improvement Plan budget.)
                                                                                      
Deadline: Mayor to submit to Richmond City Council a proposed Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget; per Richmond Code of Laws (Ordinances): Section 42-10 (2004), as amended. Failure to submit to Council as required by law shall have the consequences set forth in Richmond Code of Laws: Section 42-10 (2004), as amended. (To include: Proposed Budgets, a budget message and a Proposed Richmond Capital Improvement Plan budget.)
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, March 14, 2016
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

(Added 2.25.2016)
Public Meeting: Joint meeting with the Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees
                                                                 
Richmond City Council and Richmond Public Schools Board of Trustees to hold a joint meeting to discuss matters pertaining to Fiscal Year 2017 funding/budget priorities for Richmond Public Schools
Richmond Social Services Building
(Marshall Plaza)
900 E. Marshall St., 3rd Floor Training Rooms A & B
Richmond, Virginia
Monday, March 14, 2016
Noon-3:00 p.m.

(Meeting/Agenda moved to Monday March 21, 2016 on 2.25.2016)

Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Budget overview – Detailed review of Mayor’s Proposed Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget
• Richmond Real Estate Tax & Fee Rates
• Major Richmond General Fund Expenditure Changes
• One-time Richmond Budget Items
• Debt Service
• Richmond City Administration Personnel Complement
     - Changes (Position Eliminations)
     - Unfunded Vacant Positions
     - Pay Raises
• Richmond Govt. Employee Benefits & Human Resources
• Richmond City Government Retirement Rates/System
Richmond City Council Chambers
Friday, March 18, 2016
10:00 a.m.-Noon
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff Internal Budget Work Meeting
3rd Floor, Council Conference Rm.
Monday, March 21, 2016
Noon-5:00 p.m.

Noon-2:00 p.m.
(Schools)

(Meeting/Agenda from Monday, March 14, 2016 Moved to this date on 2.25.2016)


Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Education and Workforce Development (Noon-2 p.m.)
• Richmond Public Schools
         
Budget overview – Detailed review of Mayor’s Proposed Fiscal Year 2017 Richmond Government Budget
• Richmond Real Estate Tax & Fee Rates
• Major Richmond General Fund Expenditure Changes
• One-time Richmond Budget Items
• Debt Service
• Richmond City Administration Personnel Complement
        
     - Changes (Position Eliminations)
         
     - Unfunded Vacant Positions
        
     - Pay Raises
        
• Richmond Govt. Employee Benefits & Human Resources
• Richmond City Government Retirement Rates/System
         
Well-Managed Government
• Richmond Department of Finance
• Richmond Department of Procurement
• Richmond Office of the Mayor
• Richmond Office of the Chief Administrative Officer
• Richmond Department of Information Technology
         
Transportation and Sustainability and the Natural Environment
• Richmond Department of Public Utilities
• Richmond Department of Public Works
• Update on newly established Parking Enterprise Fund
Richmond City Council Chambers
Thursday, March 24, 2016
10:00 a.m.-Noon
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff Internal Budget Work Meeting
3rd Floor, Council Conference Rm.
Monday, March 28, 2015
Noon-4:00 p.m.


Richmond City Council Informal and Formal Meetings also to be held that day (beginning at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., respectively)
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Unique, Healthy & Inclusive Communities & Neighborhoods & Economic Growth
• Commonwealth of Virginia – State/Constitutional Office
         - Richmond Office of the General Registrar of Voters

Community Safety and Well-Being
·     Commonwealth of Virginia – State/Constitutional Offices
         - Richmond Office of the City Sheriff
         - Richmond Office of the Virginia Commonwealth's Attny.
·     Richmond Department of Justice Services
• Richmond Department of Fire & Emergency Services
• Richmond Office of Animal Care and Control
• Richmond Department of Emergency Communications
• Richmond Police Department
Richmond City Council Chambers
April 2016
Friday, April 1, 2016
10:00 a.m.-Noon
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff Internal Budget Work Meeting
3rd Floor, Council Conference Rm.
Monday, April 4, 2016
(Noon-2:00 p.m.)

Richmond City Council Organizational Development Standing Committee Meeting to be held: 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Intro. of Legislation
Federal Funds Consolidated Plan/Budget  
(Latest Date for Federal Funds Consolidated Plan/Budget Intro.)
   
Official Introduction of U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (USHUD)/Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds/Federal funds funding Ordinances for Council public hearing being held Monday, April 11, 2016, during the Council Formal meeting.
Richmond City Council Chambers

Monday, April 4, 2016
2:00 p.m. or immediately following Special Meeting for Intro. of Legislation and may last through Council Org. Dev. Standing Committee Meeting, scheduled 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Richmond Capital Improvement Plan Initial Review (PART 1)
       
• Review of Federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban 
   Development/Community Development Block Grant 
   (CDBG) Funds/Federal Funds
       
•  Richmond Non-Departmental Govt. Budget Review
       
• Richmond Social Services (continued)
-   Richmond Public Library
-   Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities
       
Richmond City Council Offices

         - Office of the Assessor of Real Estate
         - Office of the City Attorney
         - Office of the City Auditor
         - Office of the City Clerk
         - Office of the Council Chief of Staff
Richmond City Council Chambers

Friday, April 8, 2016
10:00 a.m.-Noon
Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff Internal Budget Work Meeting
3rd Floor, Council Conference Rm.
Monday, April 11, 2016
Noon -4:00 p.m.



Richmond City Council Informal and Formal Meetings also to be held that day (beginning at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., respectively)
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Unique, Healthy & Inclusive Communities & Neighborhoods & Economic Growth       
       
• Richmond Social Services
-   Richmond Department of Social Services
-   Richmond Deputy CAO for Human Services       
       
·     Richmond Depart. of Planning and Development Review
         - Richmond Riverfront Plan
•  Richmond Dept. of Economic and Community Development
       
Education and Workforce Development
• Mayor’s Office of Community Wealth Building and
   Richmond Workforce Development                                                  

Richmond Capital Improvement Plan Initial Review (PART 2)
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, April 11, 2016
5:00 p.m.


DEADLINE: Councilmembers to submit proposed budget amendments to Richmond City Council Office of the Council Chief of Staff Budget Staff by 5:00 p.m.
N/A
Monday, April 11, 2016
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Council Formal Meeting

Public Meeting: Budget Hearings: Council Formal Meeting
Public Hearing on Budget to be held during Council Formal Meeting to solicit additional public input on Richmond Government Budget.
                                                                                                      
Public Hearing on U.S. Dept. of Housing & Urban  Development/ Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Funds/Fed. Funds
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, April 18, 2016
Noon-4:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Council Budget Amendment Discussion – Part 1
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, April 25, 2016
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Formal Meeting
Public Meeting: Council Formal Meeting
May include budget discussion
Richmond City Council Chambers
Thursday, April 28, 2016
3:00-5:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Meeting – Budget Work Session
Council Budget Amendment Discussion – Part 2
Richmond City Council Chambers
May 2016

Monday, May 2, 2016
1:00 p.m. – until

Richmond City Council Organizational Development Standing Committee Meeting to be held: 5:00-7:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Mtng. – Budget Amendments
Introduction of Council Budget Amendments
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, May 9, 2016
6:00-8:00 p.m.
Council Formal Meeting

Public Meeting: Council Formal Meeting
Possible Final Vote on Budget/Richmond City Council FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget Established
Council to vote on Richmond Public Schools funding for FY 2017;
proposed documents for U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant funds (Parts of the Richmond Government Budget); and, Richmond Capital Improvement Plan
Council to vote on the final amendments and parts of the FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget
Richmond City Council Chambers
Friday, May 13, 2016
DEADLINE: Richmond Public Schools Budget Adoption
NOTE: Pursuant to the Virginia Code of Laws: 22.1-93, Richmond City Council must adopt a Budget for Richmond Public Schools by May 15, or within 30 days of receipt of state school funding estimates to localities, whichever shall occur later.
N/A
Friday, May 13, 2016
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Mtng. (If Needed)
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, May 16, 2016 Federal Funds Submission *DEADLINE*/A
NOTE: Pursuant to U.S. Federal Law: The request for U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development Community Development Block Grant funds, which shall include Annual Consolidated Action Plans and Budgets, must be submitted to the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development no later than 45 days before the start of the grantee’s program year.
N/A
Monday, May 16, 2016
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Mtng. (If Needed)
Richmond City Council Chambers
Monday, May 23, 2016
Noon – 1:00 p.m.

Richmond City Council Informal and Formal Meetings also to be held that day (beginning at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., respectively)
Public Meeting: Council Special Mtng. (If Needed)
Richmond City Council Chambers
Tuesday, May 31, 2016
Noon – 1:00 p.m.
Public Meeting: Council Special Mtng. (If Needed)
Richmond City Council Chambers
July 2016
July 1
New Richmond City Council
FY 2017 Richmond Government Budget begins


CONTACT    Richmond Residents are invited and encouraged to contact the Richmond City Councilmember representing their Richmond Voter District, using the following contact information:

2016 Richmond City Council Councilmember/ Liaison Contact Information

Richmond West End 1st Voter District _______________________________

The Honorable Jonathan T. Baliles
Councilman, Richmond City Council
Richmond West End 1st Voter District
            804.646.5349 (tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            jonathan.baliles@richmondgov.com (email)

            Mr. Yueh Hai "Eli" Wong, Liaison for The Honorable Jonathan T. Baliles
            Richmond City Council, Richmond West End 1st Voter District
            804.646.5935 (tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            eli.wong@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District __________________________

The Honorable Charles R. Samuels
Councilman, Richmond City Council
Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District
            804.646.6531 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            charles.samuels@richmondgov.com (email)

            Mr. Craig Bieber, Liaison for The Honorable Charles R. Samuels
            Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District
            804.646.6532 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            craig.bieber@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond Northside 3rd Voter District ______________________________
     
The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert
Councilman, Richmond City Council
Richmond Northside 3rd Voter District
(Vice President of Richmond City Council)
            804.646.0070 (office tel)
            chris.hilbert@richmondgov.com (email)

            Ms. Lisa F. Townes, Liaison for The Honorable Chris A. Hilbert
            Richmond City Council, Richmond Northside 3rd Voter District Liaison
            804.646.6055 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            lisa.townes@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond Southwest 4th Voter District ______________________________
     
The Honorable Kathy Graziano
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council
Richmond Southwest 4th Voter District
            804.320.2454 (office tel)
            804.320.6030 (fax)
            kathy.graziano@richmondgov.com (email) 

            Mr. Tim Grimes, Liaison for The Honorable Kathy Graziano
            Richmond City Council, Richmond Southwest 4th Voter District
            804.320.2454 (tel)
            804.382.6998 (mobile)
            804.320.6030 (fax)
            timothy.grimes@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond Central 5th Voter District ________________________________
    
The Honorable Parker C. Agelasto
Councilman, Richmond City Council
Richmond Central 5th Voter District
            804.646.6050 (tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            parker.agelasto@richmondgov.com (email)

            Ms. Ida I. Jones, Liaison for The Honorable Parker C. Agelasto
            Richmond City Council, Richmond Central 5th Voter District
            804.646.5724 (tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            ida.i.jones@richmondgov.com

Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District ______________________________

The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council
Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District
            804.646.5348 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            ellen.robertson@richmondgov.com (email)
                                                     
            Mr. Kiya Stokes, Liaison for The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson
            Richmond City Council, Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District
            804.646.7964 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            kiya.stokes@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond East End 7th Voter District _______________________________
   
The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council
Richmond East End 7th Voter District
            804.646.5429 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            cynthia.newbille@richmondgov.com (email)

            Mr. Sam Patterson, Liaison for The Honorable Cynthia I. Newbille
            Richmond City Council, Richmond East End 7th Voter District
            804.646.3012 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            sam.patterson@richmondgov.com (email)

Richmond Southside 8th Voter District ______________________________
  
The Honorable Reva M. Trammell
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council
Richmond Southside 8th Voter District
            804.646.6592 (office tel)
            804.240.5050 (mobile tel)
            804.233.7382 (home)
            804.516.8067 (mobile tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            reva.trammell@richmondgov.com (email)

            Mr. Rick Bishop, Liaison for The Honorable Reva M. Trammell
            Richmond City Council, Richmond Southside 8th Voter District
            804.646.6591 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            richard.bishop@richmondgov.com (email) 

Richmond South Central 9th Voter District __________________________
     
The Honorable Michelle R. Mosby
Councilwoman, Richmond City Council
Richmond South Central 9th Voter District
(President of Richmond City Council)
            804.646.5497 (office tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            michelle.mosby@richmondgov.com (email) 
District Office Location: 4805 Forrest Hill Avenue; Richmond, Virginia

            Mr. Uzziah Anthony Harris, Liaison for The Honorable Michelle R. Mosby
            Richmond City Council, Richmond South Central 9th Voter District
            804.646.2779 (tel)
            804.646.5468 (fax)
            uzziah.harris@richmondgov.com (email)

Mailing Address
     
The Honorable _________
Councilwoman/Councilman
Richmond City Council
Full name of Richmond Voter District
Richmond City Hall
900 E. Broad Street, Suite 305
Richmond, Virginia  23219 U.S.A.

Background - Richmond Government Budget
As Richmond Residents, we pool our resources in order to own and operate our local government and decide what public services we want to invest in; the priority (investment levels) for these services; and, how we pay for them. Examples of our services include the management, oversight and delivery of such things as clean/safe water; streets/parks; laws; law enforcement/firefighting/rescue; trash/sewage removal; public transportation; and, our children’s education. Together, we own, operate, use and benefit from these services on a daily basis.
          
     Funding for our services and enforcement of laws comes from state, local and federal sources, including fees and taxes.  
          
     In order to set the investments levels we want for these services, Richmond City Council establishes an official annual Richmond Government Budget in May of each year for the upcoming Fiscal Year.

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

      The Richmond Government Budget is typically amended annually. Thus, every year a proposed (draft) Richmond Government Budget (Fiscal Plan) is submitted to Richmond City Council by the Mayor, who is responsible for administering local government services. Council then reviews, analyzes, amends and establishes an official Richmond Government Budget based on the priorities of Richmond Residents.
                     
     Richmond City Council budget deliberations begin each August and intensify the following year. They include more than two dozen public meetings, hearings and work sessions from August through May.

     The Richmond Government Budget takes the form of Ordinances that are approved by Richmond City Council each May for an upcoming Fiscal Year.

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.


- E N D -


Steve Skinner
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 U.S.A.
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
____________________________________________________

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.

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold a South of the River District Meeting for the Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District: “Status of African Americans in Richmond"

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

COUNCIL PUBLIC INFORMATION NEWS RELEASE
IMMEDIATE RELEASE TO BE FORWARDED AND SHARED
Friday, 26 February 2016

Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson to hold a South of the River District Meeting for the Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District: “Status of African Americans in Richmond"

All Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District residents invited and encouraged to attend
         
WHAT         (Richmond, Virginia U.S.A.) - The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District, will hold a South of the River District Meeting for the Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District. This is part of the regular meetings she typically holds each month, which include information on her Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District goals and accomplishments; thematic agendas of current interest; and, special guests. These meetings are free and open to the public and all Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District residents are invited and encouraged to attend. Free refreshments will be served. The planned program/agenda for this meeting includes the following:
                 
                  PROGRAM/AGENDA

                  Status of African Americans in Richmond

·      Richmond City Council Legislative Update
  - Maggie L. Walker Statue
  - Richmond Bulk Trash Pick-up
  - GRTC Transit Company Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)/PULSE

·      F Y 2017 Richmond Government Budget
                                    - Richmond Public Schools FY 2017 Budget Request:
                                       Additional $18 Million
                                    - Richmond Gateway 6th District Projects

·      Upcoming Events
                                    - Richmond Real Estate Tax Abatements for
                                      Seniors and People with Disabilities

WHEN         Saturday, February 27, 2016
                  10:00-11:30 a.m.
                   
WHERE        Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities
                  Bellemeade Community Center
                       1800 Lynhaven Avenue; Richmond, Virginia 23222
                       804.646.8235 (tel)

WHO          The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman
                  Richmond City Council, Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District

CONTACT   For more information, please contact Mr. Kiya Stokes, Liaison for The Honorable Ellen F. Robertson, Councilwoman, Richmond City Council, Richmond Gateway 6th Voter District, at 804.646.7964 (tel), or kiya.stokes@richmondgov.com (email)



- E N D -





Steve Skinner
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 U.S.A.
804.646.6052 (office)
804.335.4054 (mobile)
804.937.1386 (home/mobile)
804.646.5468 (fax)
______________________________________________________________

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, February 25, 2016

Celebrate Jackson Ward: Past, Present and Future New Festival Will Showcase the History, People and Places of

Celebrate Jackson Ward: Past, Present and Future
New Festival Will Showcase the History, People and Places of
One of Richmond’s Most Historic Neighborhoods
May 20-22, 2016

February 25, 2016 – Richmond, Virginia: the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Dorothy McAuliffe; The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor, City of Richmond; The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District; Marilyn H. West, Chair of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia; Dr. Levy M. Armwood, Jr. Pastor, Ebenezer Baptist Church; and Steven Smith, Music Director of the Richmond Symphony are pleased to announce a special festival celebrating the people, places and history of Richmond’s historic Jackson Ward. Celebrate Jackson Ward: Past Present and Future will showcase the unique history of Jackson Ward through the stories and performances from individuals and organizations that continue to make a positive impact on the area. The Festival will feature three days of performances and activities on May 20-22, 2016. Anchored by a performance by the Richmond Symphony under its new “Big Tent” with Virginia Repertory Theatre, Richmond Jazz Society and Elegba Folklore Society, the festival will also give many professional, community and school groups a chance to perform on the Symphony’s new state-of-the-art outdoor stage. The festival will also highlight ART 180's annual spring showcase, The Really BIG Show, as part of the weekend's festivities.

“Jackson Ward has a long and rich heritage as a community filled with African-American leaders who made outstanding contributions as bankers, dancers, ministers and musicians,” says First Lady Dorothy McAuliffe. “The neighborhood continues to thrive, and I am excited to be part of this new festival celebrating Jackson Ward’s energy and diverse culture. The Richmond Symphony and other sponsors are doing great work to highlight this treasure in the heart of Richmond, and I am pleased that the festival will support the preservation of the neighborhood’s history as well as the education of future generations.”

"I am pleased that we will again partner with the Richmond Symphony to highlight another part of our great city. The Jackson Ward Festival also provides the opportunity for more of the city’s musical and cultural groups to experience performing under the Big Tent, while the event itself will leave a lasting impression on future generations," says Mayor Dwight C. Jones. "Jackson Ward has had such a tremendous impact in the shaping of the Richmond region, and I’m happy the City can be a partner in a festival that will celebrate this historic neighborhood."

“Music truly has the power to unite humankind” says Richmond Symphony Music Director Steven Smith. “Sharing the planning process for this exciting festival with the many community partners has united us all in support of the joyous celebration that will take place. This celebration will not end in May, but continue for generations to come. Our community is rich with talent, wisdom and resources; the sharing of music, art, faith and history will be the story of our future.”

“The Richmond Symphony is excited to be a partner in the Celebrate Jackson Ward Festival,” says Executive Director David J. L. Fisk. “This will be the second community festival venture for the “Big Tent” as it travels through the city and region. Music has the unique ability to tell a story about who we are as a culture, about where we have come from and where we aspire to go. Jackson Ward has a special place at the heart of the history of Richmond, and its own stories to tell. We hope that this festival will help shine an appreciative light on one of the City’s important neighborhoods.”

“It is a great honor to be part of the 2016 Celebrate Jackson Ward Festival in Abner Clay Park”, says The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District. “This event will showcase a remarkable variety of musical and artistic talent during the three days of performances in May. Historic Jackson Ward is truly experiencing a renaissance, and this festival will continue the neighborhood’s positive momentum.”

In addition to festival performances and activities, the event is designed to create a lasting and positive benefit in the Jackson Ward Neighborhood. To that end, proceeds from the festival will benefit the Friends Association for Children, The Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia and G.W. Carver Elementary School.

“The Black History Museum board and staff are excited to be a part of the energy that is reinvigorating Jackson Ward” says Black History Museum Board Chair Marilyn West. “The Celebrate Jackson Ward festival could not be happening at a better time as it coincides nicely with our upcoming grand opening. In addition, we are grateful that the Black History Museum is one of the organizations that will receive funds raised from the festival – the funds will help enhance our community outreach and arts programming.”

“The historic Ebenezer Baptist Church has been one of the faith-based centers in Jackson Ward for 158 years” says Dr. Levy M. Armwood, Pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church. “We are delighted to be included in this historic 2016 Celebrate Jackson Ward Festival. The church has served the community in many ways, especially in education, by organizing public education for African American youth in the 1860's. Our congregation welcomes and is looking forward to the wonderful activities across from our church.”

Celebrate Jackson Ward will kick off Friday, May 20 with ART 180's spring program celebration, The Really BIG Show. This celebration will spotlight artwork created by young people at a dozen ART 180 program sites this spring. Saturday May, 21 will feature a variety of performances including: a children’s performance from Virginia Repertory Theatre, Ezibu Muntu African Dance, the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra, various local performing arts groups and storytellers, and will be anchored by a performance of the Richmond Symphony with Virginia Repertory Theatre, Richmond
Jazz Society and Elegba Folklore Society. The festival will conclude on Sunday, May 22 with performances by local church choirs, liturgical dancers, and a mass ecumenical service representing several of Jackson Ward’s churches.

The festival is intended to attract thousands of people from throughout the region over the course of the weekend. Local restaurants, craft beer, vendors, businesses and non-profits will also be featured. Festival admittance is free and open to the public.
Organizations, artists, and vendors who wish to participate in the festival should go to celebratejacksonwardrva.com to complete an interest form. There will be limited performance time availability. Entry fees may apply to participating vendors.

Sponsor, business partnership and individual support opportunities are also available. For more information, please visit celebratejacksonwardrva.com or call 804.788.4717.



Scott Dodson, Richmond Symphony
(804) 788.4717 ext. 120 /sdodson@richmondsymphony.com


To date, festival sponsors include:
The E. Rhodes and Leona B. Carpenter Foundation
Genworth Financial
The Richard and Caroline T. Gwathmey Memorial Trust
The Beirne Carter Foundation
The City of Richmond
To date partners include:
ART 180
Black History Museum and Cultural Arts Center of Virginia
Carver Area Civic Improvement League
Richmond Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Facilities
Richmond Department of Planning and Development Review
Richmond Public Art Commission
Richmond Neighbor-to-Neighbor program
Ebenezer Baptist Church
Elegba Folklore Society
Ezibu Muntu African Dance Company
Friends Association for Children
Historic Jackson Ward Association
J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College
Office of The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District
Richmond Jazz Society
Richmond Public Schools
Rotary Club of Richmond
Sixth Mount Zion Baptist Church
TheatreLab
VCU Division of Community Engagement
Virginia BioTech Park
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Virginia Repertory Theatre
Virginia Union University

About the Richmond Symphony
Founded in 1957, the Richmond Symphony is the largest performing arts organization in Central Virginia. The organization includes an orchestra of more than 70 professional musicians, the 150-voice Richmond Symphony Chorus and more than 260 students in the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra programs. Each season, more than 200,000 members of the community enjoy concerts, radio broadcasts, and educational outreach programs. The Richmond Symphony is partially funded by the Virginia Commission for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.


Wednesday, February 24, 2016

Special Joint Announcement

We invite you to join the First Lady of the Commonwealth of Virginia, Dorothy McAuliffe, The Honorable Dwight C. Jones, Mayor, City of Richmond, The Honorable Charles R. Samuels, Councilman, Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District., Marilyn H. West, Chair of the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia, Dr. Levy M. Armwood, Jr., Pastor, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and Steven Smith, Music Director of the Richmond Symphony for a very special joint announcement about a new project in Richmond’s Historic Jackson Ward.   

When: Thursday, February 25 at 1:30 p.m.
Where: Abner Clay Park (Brook Rd. and Leigh St.)

In case of inclement weather, the announcement will go ahead at the given time in Ebenezer Baptist Church.

Information will be issued immediately after event.

For more information, please contact:
Scott Dodson, Richmond Symphony
(804) 788.4717 ext. 120 /sdodson@richmondsymphony.com

R. Scott Dodson
Director of Advancement and Patron Communications
The Richmond Symphony
612 E. Grace St.
Suite 401
Richmond, VA  23219
p. 804.788.4717 ex. 120
m. 215.301.2526
f. 804.788.1541