Economy
Opponents – and even supporters – of Tom Butt say Richmond’s mayor is guilty of what one critic described as a “flagrant abuse of power” and a council member called “highly inappropriate” actions. Emails between the mayor and residents indicate that many in the community were alarmed when the mayor used his regular “e-forum” to doxx political adversaries, sharing their home addresses and accusing them of violating Richmond’s rent control ordinance.
A federal judge signed a final judgment last month, prohibiting Valero Energy Corporation from buying oil storage and distribution terminals in Martinez and Richmond for the next 10 years.
As malls across the country shutter their doors, developers in Richmond are doubling down on the Hilltop Mall. LBG, Hilltop’s new owner, is focusing on transitioning Hilltop from a shopping location to an entertainment destination.
Twenty out of Richmond’s 25 city-based commissions and committees currently have empty seats, resulting in an approximately 30 percent vacancy rate. For these committees, this means more work and fewer opportunities to engage the public.
The Transient Occupancy Tax, typically paid by hotels, motels and tourists homes, may soon impact unincorporated areas like El Sobrante, Kensington and North Richmond, where there are no existing restrictions on short-term rentals, or the rules are not enforced.
Hilltop Mall is in limbo, suspended somewhere between the bustling commercial and social center it once was and the vision of what it could become.
Wendell Pierce and his real estate partnership are planning to invest in Downtown Richmond. They are working with local developers to provide housing units and 70,000 square feet of retail space.
Local businesses and organizations are stepping up to help those affected by the North Bay fires by collecting donations of food, water, and other supplies.
Richmond residents and small businesses are dismayed by the planned closure of the Main Post Office. Mayor Tom Butt hopes the city can keep it open by purchasing the property.