Richmond Rent Program executive director Nicholas Traylor retires; endorses Deputy Director Fred Tran as interim

Nicholas Traylor, the founding executive director of the Richmond Rent Program, delivered his outgoing message to the Rent Board on Feb. 18 and said he was leaving the agency with gratitude and confidence in its future leadership.

Traylor recounted the program’s development, thanked staff and partner organizations including the Eviction Defense Center and Project Sentinel, and recognized named staff members for their contributions to administration, billing, hearings and outreach. “Serving this community and working alongside each of you has been one of my greatest honors in my professional life,” Traylor said.

He concluded his remarks by endorsing Deputy Director Fred Tran as interim executive director. “I fully support and endorse Fred Tran as he takes the helm,” Traylor said. After Traylor’s remarks, the board and several staff members offered brief tributes and thanks; Cordell Henler, a Richmond resident who spoke during the meeting, closed his brief public comment with “Thanks for the memories.”

The board reported in open session that it had appointed Fred Tran as interim executive director following closed-session discussions; General Counsel Charles Ochinuga reported the motion and vote, saying Board Member Willis moved, Board Member Espinosa seconded, and all present members voted in favor. Traylor will step away and the board will continue the recruitment or appointment discussion for a permanent executive director at a future meeting.

What happens next: Fred Tran will serve as interim executive director while the board schedules follow-up to consider a permanent appointment.