June 23 Newsletter: Here comes the sun
Weather: We are in a severe heat warning until at least Wednesday, with "feels like" temperatures nearing 110. A list of city resources is here.
On this date in 1987, businesses in the West End agree to subsidize an unprofitable bus route that ferries workers to Henrico from the city. The companies pay $15 per month for each worker who uses the bus.
Richmond seeks $3.7 million in federal funds for protected bike lane, Southside sidewalk projects
City Council will vote tonight on whether to approve the funding request, which would cover 65% of the cost of four projects:
- Expanding protected bike lanes on Franklin Street.
- Expanding crosswalk access and safety on Forest Hill Avenue.
- Building sidewalks on Carnation Street and German School Road.
Read more on the projects here.
Richmond election officials appear not to have enforced finance disclosure mandates
Nearly half of the 16 candidates for Richmond School Board last year missed at least one deadline for campaign finance disclosures, according to a review of reports.
The registrar's office also appears not to have provided guidance to candidates on closing out accounts after elections.
As the city welcomes a new registrar on July 1, David M. Poole says that shoring up campaign finance enforcement should be a top priority.
Avula asks for joint Richmond-Henrico meeting to discuss future for region’s water system
The initial meeting the mayor is requesting will be part of a broader push for a “regional advisory group” that would also involve Chesterfield and Hanover Counties.
A report with policy recommendations could be completed by spring 2026.
As VCU rebuilds its basketball team, local ties will be a priority
After featuring a lineup heavy on local talent in recent years, this year's Rams team will feature just one player from the 804 area, Brandon Jennings.
New coach Phil Martelli Jr. said he hopes that changes going forward, and noted that as players being to receive payments directly from schools, they may have better opportunities to build their brand by staying close to home. Read more here.
In other news
- Theater teachers press Henrico School Board about lower pay than athletic coaches (Henrico Citizen)
- Unreleased IG report cites millions in Richmond tax overpayments that weren't refunded, 'confusion' in process (CBS 6)
- A Skybridge Deferred: The Limitations of the Proposed Arthur Ashe Bridge (What's Next, Richmond?)
The editor's desk
There are many great ways to cool off this summer, but only one correct take on ice cream: Soft serve is way better than scooped.
Michael Phillips, founding editor
mphillips@richmonder.org
Sent this by a friend? Sign up for our free thrice-weekly newsletter here.
Want to support The Richmonder? Become a donor for $9.99 a month and keep quality local journalism in the community.
