The City of Richmond has introduced a new dashboard aimed at increasing transparency in its procurement processes. The dashboard, now available on the city’s website, is designed to provide accessible information about how public funds are managed. It is open to residents, media, community organizations, and businesses.
The launch of this dashboard was prompted by Councilmember Kenya Gibson’s introduction of ORD. 2025-211. This ordinance seeks to enhance public access to procurement data.
“This is about building accountability and trust,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “When Richmonders can see how we are using their hard-earned dollars to reinvest into their communities, it strengthens confidence in our government and helps us all to feel more connected to the work of serving our community.”
The dashboard brings together links to existing city-managed data sources. These sources provide current information on city contracts, bids, requests for proposals, and suppliers.
According to city officials, platforms such as the RVA Open Data Portal, the Minority Business Development Vendor Registry, and OpenGov play a key role in fostering trust and accountability in city operations.
“Transparency is central to the work of the Avula administration,” said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. “The Administration and City Council are united in a commitment to transparency, which only happens with the leadership of our partners in City Council. Their vision for a more transparent procurement process is in lockstep with our own and I am so thankful for their work, particularly that of Councilmember Kenya Gibson, in advocating for these solutions.”
Councilmember Kenya Gibson stated: “The residents of Richmond deserve to know exactly how their money is being spent by the City. To that end, I’ve introduced ORD. 2025-211 specifically to give the public access to an extensive set of data about the City’s procurement functions. This level of transparency is an absolute must, and I’m looking forward to collaborating with the Administration on this ordinance.”
The announcement comes ahead of a discussion by the Governmental Operations Standing Committee regarding ORD. 2025-211. The ordinance proposes changes to expand the range of datasets published by the city, an effort that is being addressed with the new dashboard.
Further information about Richmond’s efforts to improve procurement transparency and access to the dashboard can be found at https://rva.gov/procurement-services/procurement-transparency-dashboard.
