Where we’ve been - Where we’re going
It has been a bit longer than I had hoped to get a website up and running - as the saying goes, time flies when you’re having fun. Now that this website is live it will be a platform for updates on the work of the Town Council, important issues in Richmond, a resource for additional information and upcoming events.
The first 10 months on Town Council have been busy. In addition to getting the budget passed, we have been tackling several tasks to make Richmond better. The budget for fiscal year (FY) 2026 began on July 1. There was no increase in the tax rate. The budget also included $550,000 to be used toward road repaving and maintenance. This amount combined with additional state funding of $133,500 makes the total investment in our roads for this year $685,000, without borrowing a dime. Areas under consideration are Wilbur Hill area, Old Mountain Road, and Pine Hill Road.
I have supported the Town Council’s work to establish a municipal court. The council will be interviewing candidates for a municipal judge soon with the goal of the court beginning in early 2026. The municipal court will provide residents a convenient way to deal with motor vehicle violations. The court will also make the enforcement of housing violations more effective and efficient. A municipal judge will be better able to work with property owners to resolve issues that are identified. Being able to deal with violations locally through the municipal court will be more efficient and less costly for Richmond.
Last but not least the Town Council has been pushing to move forward with the improvements at 4 Richmond Townhouse Rd (across from Town Hall). Because the funding is coming from the Federal government there are more bureaucratic requirements that need to be met before construction can begin. Phase 1 includes a large pavilion with rest rooms and a handicap accessible parking area that can be used by residents. The town is seeking additional grants to enhance what is available for residents at the property. Ideas that have been suggested are a play ground, open space/field, and multi-use courts. Hopefully residents will see work beginning soon.
The council has also supported community events. Food truck nights returned to Town Hall and were well attended. The Recreation Commission’s first Fall Festival on October 19th was a great success, and the annual Tree Lighting Festival will be held December 5th.
Thank you for reading, I welcome hearing from Richmond residents and business owners.