Richmond committee forwards two citizen advisory commission ordinances to full council after public hearing

The Organizational Development Standing Committee of the Richmond City Council voted 6-0 to forward Ordinance 2026-692 (Code Refresh Review Commission) and Ordinance 2026-696 (Resident Planning Review Commission) to full council with no recommendation following a public hearing that drew both advocates and opponents.

Supporters said the commissions could strengthen transparency and resident accountability during a major overhaul of the city's zoning code and master plan. Patty Merrill, president of the Westhampton Citizens Association, urged the committee to "create such a citizens commission" to build trust and provide reliable, shared information. Susan Rebello, who said she had reviewed national studies, told the committee a citizens advisory commission is a proven tool to reduce polarization and improve inclusion.

Opponents warned the new bodies would duplicate existing processes and delay implementation. "Adding another commission to this process will largely be duplicative of the current bodies providing oversight and the community feedback that has already been collected," said Woody Rogers, policy director at the Partnership for Housing Affordability, who also stressed urgency in expanding housing and cited a city housing gap of "nearly 18,000 units." Annika Shun of Housing Opportunities Made Equal said the proposed structures would likely fail to reach renters, low-income homeowners and Spanish speakers who do not attend daytime meetings.

Councilmembers pressed patrons and staff for details about outreach, staffing and funding before making a recommendation. Councilwoman Nicole Jones asked how a small commission would reach "20 something thousand neighbors" in a district and whether the effort would be council-led or led by administration. Kevin Javon, director of planning, development and review, told the committee the code refresh process began in early 2024 and that the overall project budget is "about $1,200,000" with roughly "$100,000 on engagement" so far; he said staff estimated direct engagement with at least 5,000 individuals and that a postcard was mailed to every Richmond household to notify residents about the process.

RJ Warren, council chief of staff, clarified that both ordinances designate the office of the council chief of staff to provide staffing and resources for the commissions if they are adopted.

Councilwoman Auerbacher moved to forward both ordinances to full council without recommendation to allow additional information and discussion; Councilmember Gibson seconded. The committee recorded six ayes and the measures will proceed to the full City Council docket. President Newbill asked members to submit outstanding questions to staff so administration can respond at the next council meeting.

The committee did not vote to adopt either ordinance; the next procedural step is consideration by the full City Council.