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Neighbor raises concerns about VMFA expansion, alleged zoning and communication problems
Summary
A First District resident told council the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts foundation has acquired multiple properties near Grove Avenue, used a residential property as a construction office and failed to adequately communicate with neighbors about expansion plans.
A First District resident urged Richmond City Council on Monday to press the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (VMFA) and its foundation for clearer communication about its expansion and property acquisitions near Grove Avenue.
Thomas Courtney said the mayor serves ex officio on the VMFA board of trustees and criticized the foundation’s use of private entities that he said operate outside public records and FOIA disclosure. Courtney alleged the VMFA Foundation acquired most properties on the 2800–2900 block of Grove Avenue, operates a bed-and-breakfast he said has no educational purpose for the museum, and is using a multifamily residential site at 2823 Grove Avenue as a construction office without appropriate permits.
Courtney also said the VMFA’s private attorney serves on a code-refresh committee and urged council to seek proactive dialogue and a clear timeline for information sharing from VMFA and its affiliated entities. He cited March 2025 comments from the board of zoning appeals urging VMFA entities to work better with neighbors.
Council did not respond with immediate action items during the public comment period; the issue was submitted for council consideration via public testimony.
