As vacant property tax vote nears, residents debate effectiveness

Richmond residents will vote in November on a vacant property tax that could raise $5 million in revenue for homeless services and code enforcement. While almost everyone agrees that homelessness and blight are major issues facing the city, there’s a debate over whether taxing property owners is the most effective way to address the problem.

Read More

Planting seeds of change

Community members from the Coronado, Iron Triangle, and Santa Fe neighborhoods in Richmond came together on César Chávez’ 84th birthday to honor the farm labor leader by planting vegetables, trees, and other vegetation in local schools and neighborhoods. The first annual César Chávez’ Community Garden Day brought nearly 100 people out of their homes and into a garden at Richmond College Prep Charter School, sparking a true grassroots movement.

Read More