Government

New scholarship helps Richmond college students

The Richmond City Council voted Tuesday evening to include all of Richmond’s students in a new college scholarship program. Students who earn the scholarship will receive $1,500 per year, starting with high school graduates in 2016. The scholarship program known as the Richmond Promise is financed by a grant from Chevron Corp.

Contra Costa seeking alternative to shackling during transport of juveniles

Critics claim that the indiscriminate use of restraints, particularly when youth are out in public wearing shackles, is damaging and unnecessary. Until recently, probation department drivers carrying minors would park their vehicles in a lot across the street from the Martinez courthouse. The designated curb stop was created amid complaints that the long walk amounted to an unnecessary humiliation.

Meeting of the Minds aims to design more livable cities

Last week’s Meeting of the Minds Conference at the Craneway Pavilion brought together social entrepreneurs, politicians and innovation strategists to help Richmond and other cities design more efficient, livable urban environments. Here are four audio interviews of individuals at the forefront of these efforts:  

Conference highlights innovative approaches for sustainable city

Over a two-day period, conference participants presented projects ranging from the rehabilitation of public parks and arts education to sustainable energy and transportation initiatives. A number of local projects demonstrated how Richmond is being transformed through investment and creative redevelopment.