Richmond, VA – Mayor Danny Avula has initiated the formation of two strategic work groups to plan for a sustainable and resilient water future in the region. This initiative aims to ensure long-term reliable water infrastructure through regional partnership and analysis.
The first work group is an internal team led by Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald and Director of Public Utilities Scott Morris. It will focus on scenario planning, evaluating options such as capital investment needs, debt management strategies, and ratepayer impacts. External consultants like Davenport Financial Advisors and Raftelis may be involved as necessary.
A second work group consists of a regional collaboration among water utility leaders and technical experts from Richmond, Chesterfield County, Hanover County, and Henrico County. This group will handle operational planning and coordination by reviewing capital improvement plans, evaluating rate models, coordinating state funding requests, conducting joint exercises, and providing updates to regional partners.
“These two work groups mark a critical step forward in building a stronger, more resilient water system for the region,” said Mayor Danny Avula. He highlighted recent collaboration where Richmond provided additional water to Henrico County during maintenance at Henrico’s treatment facility.
Today’s operation saw Richmond’s Water Treatment Plant increase its supply to Henrico County while both jurisdictions ensured their reservoirs were full. The transition was closely monitored to ensure uninterrupted service.
Scott Morris emphasized the importance of these collaborations: “These work groups and real-time collaborations are exactly what it takes to meet the challenges of modern infrastructure.”
Both groups have already convened for further direction and meeting cadence refinement.
