The City of Richmond released on Apr. 16 the outcome report from its first budget town hall series, which took place between January and February. The sessions were held in community centers across the city and aimed to explain the budget process to residents while gathering their input for the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget.
City officials said that more than 1,000 people participated in both in-person and digital sessions. During these events, residents learned how revenues are allocated and how funding decisions are made. Participants also took part in exercises that simulated actual budget negotiations by prioritizing city services after hearing presentations from department leaders.
Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II, who hosted the town halls, said, “We were proud to welcome more than 1,000 participants to our in-person and digital sessions. I truly believe we walked away more informed than we were before. City leaders learned a lot about where our residents want to see their tax dollars spent and our residents walked away with a deeper understanding of the budget process. This exchange truly represents how people-centered governance works.”
The report highlighted that public safety and education emerged as top priorities for residents when allocating mock budgets during these sessions. Administrative services and infrastructure followed closely behind as areas recognized for their importance in supporting government operations.
Mayor Danny Avula said, “Events like these are at the very heart of local government. Conversations held in town halls and community centers across the City featuring voices which represent the diverse backgrounds of our residents; these are the voices our policymaking and our administration need to reflect. I’m grateful to have had the chance to listen, learn, and incorporate these findings into my proposed budget.”
According to city officials, Education and Public Safety accounted for 39% of all resident mock allocations during the exercises—a priority reflected in Mayor Avula’s proposed FY2027 budget with $257 million directed toward Richmond Public Schools along with investments aimed at improving public safety training and equipment.
The Mayor’s office encouraged those interested to read this year’s final report or watch a recap video available online.
