Mayor Danny Avula outlined on March 11 key investments in the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget aimed at strengthening Richmond’s City Hall workforce and improving essential services. The announcement highlighted a citywide investment of approximately $263.5 million related to collective bargaining, which is an increase of about $22.1 million over the previous fiscal year.
The proposed budget includes salary adjustments, market-based compensation changes, personnel costs, and operational expenses tied to labor agreements. Mayor Avula said all collective bargaining commitments will be funded, with raises for police, fire, and other union-represented employees beginning in July 2026. Equivalent adjustments are planned for non-union employees performing similar work.
Pillar One of the mayor’s plan focuses on transforming local government into a model public-sector organization that manages resources effectively and meets community needs. “Richmond’s success depends on the people who show up every day to keep our city running — from firefighters and police officers to the employees who maintain our infrastructure, support our neighborhoods, and deliver essential services,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “If we want a City Hall that gets things done, we have to invest in the people who make that work possible.”
Key investments include an average compensation increase of about 6.73% for sworn police and fire personnel starting July 2026, which covers negotiated pay adjustments and step increases. Union-represented employees in other bargaining units will receive a 3.25% salary increase effective July 2026, while non-union employees performing similar work will also see a 3.25% raise at that time. For other non-union staff, a proposed cost-of-living adjustment of 3% is delayed until January 2027.
These measures are part of a broader strategy to build a workforce reflecting Richmond’s commitment to service, accountability, and excellence while enhancing City Hall’s ability to serve residents effectively.
The preview is part of several early looks at how the FY27 budget supports Mayor Avula’s vision for a thriving Richmond across neighborhoods, families, economies, and city government operations. The full FY27 proposed budget will be presented publicly by Mayor Avula on March 11 at 3:00 p.m., after which it will be submitted to City Council for review.
