Richmond Mayor Danny Avula has announced plans to introduce an ordinance that would formalize the creation of a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Library, aiming to make city records more accessible to the public. The initiative is intended to enhance government transparency and accountability by expanding access to information.
The proposed ordinance builds on previous efforts, including the launch of the City’s FOIA Water Library in April 2025, which made frequently requested records available online. The new FOIA Library would post releasable records that have been requested by multiple individuals and are considered to be of clear public interest. Records containing sensitive privacy, security, or confidential information will not be included if redaction cannot fully protect against misuse.
Mayor Avula outlined criteria for what types of documents would be eligible for inclusion in the library. Eligible records must be responsive, releasable (with legal redactions as needed), requested by at least two people, and central to government operational accountability. Records involving strong privacy concerns or those that could endanger safety will not be posted if adequate protection cannot be ensured.
“As a public health doctor and now, as Mayor, open communication and transparency have always been the bedrock of my work. This initiative is an extension of those values,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “I’m excited about the FOIA Library because it will make it simpler for residents to access information. It’s another step toward earning and keeping the public’s trust, strengthening accountability, and showing our commitment to open government.”
The ordinance is expected to be introduced on October 14, 2025.
