The Richmond City Council held an informal meeting on September 22, 2025, to discuss key issues affecting the city, including tax rates and housing supply. The meeting highlighted the council's ongoing efforts to engage with constituents and address their concerns regarding the proposed tax rate adjustments.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the potential vote on a new tax rate, which, if approved, would mark the first time since 2014 that the council has implemented changes before November. A council member expressed the importance of allowing sufficient time for public feedback, emphasizing that the community's understanding of the tax implications is crucial. They noted that residents are not solely focused on tax relief but are also concerned about the broader implications for city budgeting and services.

The conversation shifted to the impact of housing supply on local economics. A council member referenced data from various cities that have successfully increased housing production, leading to a stabilization of housing prices. They suggested that the federal government is also recognizing this trend, with bipartisan efforts aimed at enhancing housing production. The member proposed a more in-depth analysis of this data to better inform future decisions.

Additionally, the council discussed the importance of adhering to the rollback rate set by the state when budgeting, rather than making assumptions about future tax rates. This approach aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the city's financial planning.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to engaging with the community on tax and housing issues while emphasizing the need for informed decision-making based on robust data. The council plans to continue these discussions in future meetings, with a focus on educating the public about the implications of proposed changes.