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Community groups and council push for dedicated Affordable Housing Trust Fund funding
Summary
Mayor and council presented a revised Affordable Housing Trust Fund ordinance, and dozens of faith and advocacy groups urged the council to adopt predictable funding (2.5% of real-estate tax was discussed) with strong implementation, transparency and protections for households at 30% AMI and below.
The mayor and council presented a revised Richmond Affordable Housing Trust Fund ordinance intended to create a predictable, dedicated funding stream for the construction and preservation of deeply affordable housing.
Mayor Daniel Avila and CAO Odie Donald (presenting for administration staff) outlined a two-part strategy: increase supply and prevent displacement through zoning updates, collaborative redevelopment and preservation strategies, and dedicated predictable funding. "This legislation ... creates a dedicated, transparent and fiscally responsible source" for affordable housing, the mayor said.
Advocates, faith leaders and members of the community testified in support. Derek Starr Redwine of RISC said the ordinance establishes a reliable funding stream but warned that the law's strength will be measured by faithful implementation and public oversight. Deacon Janice Lacey and other RISC leaders calculated that the proposed 2.5% allocation of property-tax revenue over five years would generate more than $63,000,000 for the trust fund, language repeated in several public comments.
Council members emphasized accountability and monitoring. "There are reporting requirements for both the Affordable Housing Trust Fund board and an implementation period," said the administration; Council member Ellen Robertson highlighted the ordinance's emphasis on serving the lowest-income households, including the requirement that 30% of funds go to households at 30% AMI and below.
Speakers including the trust-fund board and RISC acknowledged compromises in the ordinance (concerns about use of bond financing and reauthorization language were raised) but urged approval and close oversight. Marty Wegbride cited a recent audit that found missing implementation plans and unrevealed set-asides; he said the ordinance's new transparency and reporting rules should address those omissions.
The public hearing closed and council resumed discussion. Members asked for staff reports and implementation details; administration representatives said they will provide implementation plans and follow-up reporting. The transcript does not record a final disposition of the ordinance during this meeting (final vote status not specified in the record provided).
