Government
Police and religious leaders gathered to explore how to better work together.
The city of Richmond is considering an ordinance that will prohibit the distribution of plastic bags and allow retail establishments to charge customers a fee for paper bags. The city’s Environmental Initiatives department, which is the agency facilitating the ordinance, held a community meeting Wednesday night to solicit feedback from residents and business owners.
Proposed budget cuts to adult education threaten adult literacy program.
One of Richmond’s greatest community leaders was honored for his lifetime of work during an emotional ceremony Tuesday night.
When Richmond’s code enforcement manager Tim Higares realized his unit was bringing in less money this fiscal year than the last, he was actually happy. He said less money means more clean-up cooperation from property owners—mostly banks—who face steep fines for allowing foreclosed properties to fall into disrepair. “We need to stabilize these communities,” said Higares. “The drop in penalty fees means that we’re getting compliance.” Richmond was hit particularly hard by the foreclosure crisis. Higares said code enforcement receives…
Cortland “Corky” Boozé is a rarity in local politics: The hard-luck local provocateur who finally broke into the inner circle.
The new left-leaning city council faces steep challenges ahead.
As a cost-saving measure, City Hall will be closed during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day during December 27 to 31. City manager Bill Lindsay said police and fire services would be the exception, as they will stay open throughout the holidays. However, non- emergency city services like public works and library services will be on a limited schedule, he said. Only the main public library will remain open, Lindsay said. The Finance Department estimates that the cost-saving…
The future of the local green economy faces a test over the next 4 years.