April Update with Third District Council-woman Ann-Frances Lambert

by Brigette Kelly 04.2022

Redistricting

Richmond’s population over the past decade increased by 11% from 204,000 to 226,600, according to last year’s census data. Each district needs around 25,000 residents to make them equal. Based on this data, the city needs to adjust four of its nine council districts: the 2nd, 3rd, 6th, and 7th.

Upcoming Redistricting Meetings:

  • Monday, April 11, 2022; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

  • Monday, April 25, 2022; 6:00-8:00 p.m.

  • Thursday, May 26, 2022; Adopted redistricting plan takes effect (no meeting)

For more information please visit https://www.rva.gov/index.php/richmond-city-council/redistricting 

FY ‘23 Budget

Mayor Levar Stoney released his budget on Friday, March 4. Please click here to see his budget presentation. 

To see a calendar of upcoming budget meetings, please visit 

https://richmondva.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=1&clip_id=2949

Removing Barriers for Women

The city has partnered with the National League of Cities, Leadership Metro Richmond, and United WE to remove barriers for women, especially women of color serving in appointed positions.“Our partnership with the City of Richmond and United WE’s Appointments Project will strengthen the city by increasing the number of women and women of color who are at the decision-making table of their communities,” Myra Goodman Smith, the head of Leadership Metro Richmond said.

Recycling Service Pickups 

If you are experiencing a delay in your pickup:

  1. Leave recycling out for 24 hours after your can is supposed to be picked up.

  2. Call CVWMA’s customer service line at 804-340-0900

  3. Email CVWMA at custtomerservice@cvwma.com 

Richmond Public Works Department - Annual Neighborhood Cleanup Program

The program runs on selected Saturdays beginning March 12 through November 19. DPW crews will collect curbside items and items in alleys from 8 a.m. until noon on designated Saturdays.

Get details & schedule at https://rva.gov/public-works/neighborhoodcleanups 

Chamberbrook

The Chamberbrook Business and Arts district is a movement dedicated to reestablishing a business and arts district in Northside. The district will institute the Chamberlayne and Brookland park Corridor as the premier community of the area. The project will provide residents with essential resources, generate sustainable growth, and will reinforce an overall sense of community. 

 The movement wants entrepreneurs, artists, business owners, and neighbors to help create a unique place rooted in community, history, and culture. To hear Councilwoman Lambert’s comments visit https://www.nbc12.com/video/2022/03/02/infrastructure-upgrades-could-be-way-richmonds-chamberlayne-neighborhood/ 

Legislation

In 2020, Richmond had the highest opioid overdose death rate in all of Virginia, with 203 opioid-related deaths in all.

The Richmond Metropolitan Spike Alert Program will be operated in partnership with agencies across Richmond, Henrico, and Chesterfield. The system will alert the public in all three localities when an overdose spike is occurring. More information will be shared in the coming weeks as the alert system is established.


Civilian Review Board Update

Dr. William Pelfrey presented his research and recommendations on a Civilian Review Board at the February 28th informal city council meeting. To see Dr. Pelfrey’s presentation, please visit https://richmondva.granicus.com/MediaPlayer.php?view_id=1&clip_id=2941 

Gun Violence

Councilwoman Lambert is working with city leaders, the private sector, RPD, the non-profit sector, and community leaders to address gun violence in Richmond. Councilwoman helped secure $1.5 million from ARP funds last year that will go to gun violence prevention. For more information please visit

https://www.wric.com/news/local-news/richmond/send-in-the-violence-interrupters-richmonds-new-plans-to-combat-gun-crime/