The Richmond City Council voted unanimously to adopt a resolution consenting to the mayor's designation of Sabrina Joy Hogg as interim chief administrative officer.

Mayor Avila introduced the nomination at the meeting, noting that former CEO Lincoln Saunders resigned at the end of December and that Hogg "has provided tremendous leadership in this first week" amid recent crises. The mayor said Hogg historically served as the city's TCAO and in finance administration roles and that the consent vote is required by code.

No members of the public signed up to speak during the public hearing on the nomination. Council member Abubakar said she supported Hogg's interim appointment but reiterated support for a national search for the permanent CAO. "I respect and appreciate the continuity, particularly in this transition period, but ... I'm still in full support of a national search for a permanent CAO," Abubakar said.

Council member Jones told colleagues she had participated in a candidate interview with the Robert Barbe Group and that the national search process is underway. "They are in the process of doing a national search," Jones said, and she encouraged other members to participate in interviews so their input on desired qualifications is heard.

After the public hearing and member remarks, the council called the question and adopted the resolution. Votes recorded at final question were: Mr. Bridal: Yes; Miss Gibson: Yes; Miss Jones: Aye; Miss Robertson: Aye; Miss Lynch: Aye; Miss Trammell: Aye; Miss Abubakar: Aye; Vice President Jordan: Aye; President Newbill: Aye.

The resolution provides the mayor's interim appointment the council's formal consent; members and the mayor discussed that a national search for a permanent CAO is ongoing but the council did not adopt further personnel actions at this meeting.