Richmond, VA - The City of Richmond is proud to announce the appointment of Interim Fire Chief Jeffrey Segal as the permanent Chief of Richmond Fire and Emergency Services. His appointment comes as the department rolls out a series of new initiatives focused on strengthening operations, expanding leadership capacity, and reinforcing accountability for the department.

Chief Segal takes the helm having served as the Department's Interim Chief since January 2025. He joined the Richmond Fire and Emergency Services Department in 2020, where he oversaw the department's North Division and served as a Shift Commander.

"I am grateful to be able to continue in service to a community I have grown to love deeply," said Chief Segal. "I look forward to building on this Department's strong legacy and thank the Mayor and our CAO for entrusting me with this tremendous responsibility."

Chief Segal has a strong background in fire operations, special operations, emergency medical services (EMS), and incident management. Prior to his move to Richmond, Chief Segal served with the Baltimore City Fire Department for over 30 years. He advanced through the ranks becoming a Fire Pump Operator, Lieutenant, Captain, Battalion Chief, Battalion Commander, Division Chief, Deputy Chief, and subsequently Assistant Chief. He also served as the City's Interim Chief, Deputy Incident Commander on the Baltimore Regional Type III Incident Management Team and oversaw the Baltimore City Fire Department's Type IV Incident Management Team.

"For the last quarter I have had an opportunity to partner with Chief Segal in setting the foundation for the future of Richmond Fire," said CAO Odie Donald II. "Chief Segal not only has the trust and respect of his department and the community, his commitment to ethical leadership and best in class service delivery fully aligns with both Mayor Avula's vision for Richmond and the City's rich firefighting legacy."

Chief Segal's appointment is effective November 29, 2025.

New Leadership Positions

To ensure that RFD is well equipped to continue meeting the evolving needs of the city, the department is announcing the creation of a new role, a Senior Business Officer. This senior leadership-level unsworn position, which has been filled by City of Richmond Organizational Strategist Jeff Gray, will oversee the department's finances and general administrative activities, while ensuring the department consistently remains in alignment with citywide administrative and ethical standards. This new position also builds on the recently hired Internal Standards Officer, who focuses on monitoring compliance, makes sure that RFD's processes remain fair, and helps the department maintain a high level of trust.

"This new civilian Senior Business Officer will provide us with subject matter expertise to bring RFD's finance and operations in line with citywide standards and industry best practices," said Chief Segal. "I am excited to strengthen our leadership team with this addition."

New Proposed Policies to Ensure Consistency and Accountability 

Along with expanded leadership, the Richmond Fire Department is proposing three new policies to make sure its work stays consistent, fair, and in line with citywide administrative and ethical standards. Those new policies include:

1. Fire Inspection Control Measures and Guidance: Provides clear guidance for inspections to ensure they are done the same way across the city.
2. Anti-Corruption Policy: Reinforces the department's commitment to honesty and accountability.
3. Purchasing and Procurement Policy: Ensures that resources and supplies are purchased responsibly, with a streamlined process.

Together these initiatives build on work that is already underway within department, including biannual internal audits, supervisory oversight of inspection reports, and random accountability checks. With public trust and accountability at the forefront of these new initiatives, the Richmond Fire department is proud to be taking intentional steps to ensure that the city of Richmond continues to receive fire services that are professional, trustworthy, and reliable.

"Best in class service delivery is our citywide standard. The combination of this new structure and enhanced policies will keep the Fire Department running smoothly and ensure the department meets the high administrative and ethical standards our residents expect. I appreciate Chief's hard work and willingness to, as the Mayor says, 'Look for it, find it, fix it,'" said CAO Odie Donald II.

"One of my top priorities is taking Richmond's local government and transforming it into a model public-sector organization. That work happens through continuous, focused improvements to the way we do business. That's exactly what I've asked CAO Donald to do, and in collaboration with Chief Segal that's exactly what these new announcements deliver. This kind of nuts-and-bolts progress is how we build trust with our residents. More to come!" said Mayor Danny Avula.

$2 Million to Boost Housing Trust Fund, and 78 New Affordable Housing Units Approved

Richmond, VA -- Mayor Danny Avula today applauded Richmond City Council for approving a series of measures that move the city closer to a Thriving Richmond - strengthening neighborhoods, advancing energy resilience, and expanding access to affordable housing.

$2 Million Boost for Affordable Housing Trust Fund

Leading the list of accomplishments, Council approved ORD. 2025-225, which transfers $2 million into the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. The Affordable Housing Trust Fund supports mixed-income development, rehabilitates blighted properties, and advances housing stability.

"This investment represents the heart of what it means to build a thriving city," said Mayor Danny Avula. "Every dollar we put toward affordable housing is a commitment to stability, opportunity, and equity for Richmond families."

"Every Richmond resident deserves access to safe, affordable housing and a place to call home," says Councilmember Ellen F. Robertson, Richmond City Council, Richmond Gateway 6th District. "Investments like this help ensure we are building a more equitable city where no one is priced out of the community they love."

Council also advanced ORD. 2025-236, authorizing a grant agreement to support Bellevue Gardens, a 78-unit affordable housing development at 3940 Rosedale Avenue in the Northside area of Richmond. The project will include 42 homes for residents earning 0-50% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and 36 homes for those at 50-80% AMI, with completion expected in 2026.

Protecting Renters and Strengthening Neighborhoods

To promote safe and healthy housing conditions, City Council unanimously approved Mayor Avula's ORD. 2025-161, establishing a Residential Rental Inspection Program (RRIP). The Administration will use the next six months to create the policies, procedures and process by which tenants, advocacy groups, and concerned citizens may request a specific parcel or parcels be designated as a Rental Inspection District because rental dwelling units are either blighted, or in the process of deterioration, or in need of inspection by the Building Commissioner to prevent deterioration. ORD. 2025-161 does not itself designate any Rental Inspection Districts. Creating a district requires a separate Council action after review of factors such as building code or health violations, public safety responses, or tenant petitions.

"Safe housing is healthy housing," said Mayor Danny Avula. "This ordinance creates a pathway to ensure that Richmond renters live in homes that meet basic standards of safety and dignity. I look forward to working with CAO Donald and the rest of the team to build a fair, transparent process that protects tenants, supports responsible landlords, and strengthens neighborhoods."

"This is a major step forward in protecting renters," said Councilmember Stephanie Lynch, Richmond City Council, Richmond Central 5th Voter District. "While full implementation will take time and coordination, this is a significant piece of a plan to build stronger, fairer housing for tenants throughout Richmond."

Driving Tourism and Economic Growth

Council also approved ORD. 2025-233 and ORD. 2025-234, authorizing two major tourism development projects under the Virginia Tourism Authority's program:

• A 253-key dual-branded hotel by Shamin Hotels at North Arthur Ashe Boulevard and Myers Street.
• A 95-key boutique hotel by Capital Square at Roseneath Road and West Moore Street.

These investments are expected to generate new jobs, attract visitors, and spur private investment in the Scott's Addition area.

"Scott's Addition continues to be one of Richmond's success stories," said Councilmember Katherine Jordan, Richmond City Council, Richmond North Central 2nd Voter District. "These projects build on that momentum to bring new jobs, new energy, and new opportunities to residents, visitors, and small businesses. I'm thrilled to see investment that drives tourism and strengthens the fabric of our community."

"These projects represent the kind of smart growth that fuels Richmond's economy, strengthens our hospitality industry, and keeps our city on the map as a destination for business and leisure alike," said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. "Tourism is more than just visitors - it's also jobs and investment aimed at supporting our neighborhoods."

Building a Sustainable Future

With the adoption of ORD. 2025-232, the City will launch a Virginia Energy Resilience Study Fund to support energy planning in the East End through a $10,000 Virginia Department of Energy grant.

Additionally, ORD. 2025-227 authorizes new electric vehicle charging stations on North Arthur Ashe Boulevard, expanding access to clean transportation options.

"As a physician, as a dad, and as Mayor, I see every investment in sustainability as an investment in public health," said Mayor Danny Avula. "Energy resilience, EV access, and cleaner air are how we build a future-ready city that's thriving for generations to come."

"The Office of Sustainability is working hard at bringing RVAgreen 2050, the City's Climate Equity Action Plan, to life. Council's adoption of these ordinances helps move that vision forward, and we're proud to share that 28% of the plan is already complete. Richmond is truly thriving as we build a more sustainable and resilient city, said Laura Thomas, Director of the Office of Sustainability.

Getting Things Done

Council also passed measures that make City operations more effective and responsive, including:

• ORD. 2025-222 - updating towing and storage fee limits for greater clarity and consistency.
• ORD. 2025-237 - renewing the Enterprise Zone Cooperation Agreement with the City's Economic Development Authority, continuing incentives that drive private investment in key neighborhoods.

"Renewing the Enterprise Zone Cooperation Agreement reinforces our commitment to growing equitable opportunities in Richmond's neighborhoods," said Angie Rodgers, Director of Economic Development. "These incentives continue to be a powerful tool for attracting private investment, strengthening commercial corridors, and ensuring that our communities benefit from long-term economic growth."

Utility Relief Measures in Effect for Richmond Residents

Richmond, VA -- As the federal government shutdown continues, the City of Richmond, Richmond Public Schools, regional and state partners, and community organizations are standing together to ensure residents have access to essential resources-from food assistance and utility relief to emergency shelter and family support.

Mayor Danny Avula was joined on Friday, November 7, by representatives from the Richmond Health District, Richmond Redevelopment and Housing Authority, Richmond City Council, Richmond Public Schools, Feed More, and members of state delegation to highlight collaborative efforts underway across the region.

In the past week alone, the City of Richmond, and Chesterfield, and Henrico counties have jointly contributed $300,000 to support Feed More, Central Virginia's regional food bank and its network of more than 300 food pantries.

"In uncertain times like these, Richmond shows what it means to thrive - not just to get by, but to come together. This is the Beloved Community in action: neighbors caring for neighbors, communities stepping up for families, a city that won't let anyone be left behind. That's the Richmond I believe in, and that's the Richmond we're building together," said Mayor Danny Avula.

The City's Office of Neighborhood Engagement has distributed fliers and resources throughout communities to raise awareness about food assistance, while volunteers-including the City's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)-have joined Feed More to help with distribution.

"Our partners have been here all along, and I've seen the wonderful work residents are doing to be neighbors to one another. Hunger is not something we should have to face in our city. I'm proud to stand with the partners here today to stand in the gap," said Richmond City Councilmember Ellen F. Robertson.

"At RPS, our motto is to lead and serve with love. That means more than teaching reading, writing, math, and art-it means stepping into the breach when our students and families need us most. We did that during the pandemic, and we'll continue to do it today and, in the days, ahead," said Richmond Public Schools Superintendent Jason Kamras. "I'm so grateful for our extraordinary partnership with the City and Feed More as we work together to support our kids and families."

The Commonwealth's Virginia Emergency Nutrition Assistance (VENA) program has also mobilized state resources to expand access to food across the Commonwealth. Residents can continue to donate food or make monetary contributions to Feed More to strengthen regional food security.

To ease financial strain during the shutdown, the City's Department of Utilities (DPU) has implemented temporary utility relief measures effective November 1:

• Suspending disconnections for non-payment through the end of November.
• Waiving late fees for the month of November.
• Residents facing DPU hardship are encouraged to call (804) 646-5420 to establish a payment plan or seek assistance through MetroCare Water Assistance.

Additionally, with cold temperatures arriving earlier than usual, the City has partnered with The Salvation Army to open its Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS) ahead of schedule. Located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue, the shelter provides overnight warmth and safety for individuals experiencing homelessness during this week's cold snap. The IWS will function as an overnight shelter beginning Thursday, November 6 to help residents stay safe and warm during periods of extremely cold temperatures. For more information about the Inclement Weather Shelter visit Inclement Weather | Richmond.

CARITAS is hosting a Surge Shelter that can accommodate up to 60 people if demand exceeds available capacity. These efforts are supported by regional collaboration with Chesterfield, Henrico, and Hanover counties, ensuring that every resident across Central Virginia has access to a safe place to stay when temperatures drop.

For up-to-date information about the City of Richmond's support to residents during the federal shutdown:

Go.rva.gov/snap

Go.rva.gov/shutdown

Ways to Help

• Donate: The best way for residents to support this ongoing effort is to donate to Feed More (go.rva.gov/feedmore). A $5 donation provides 20 nourishing meals to residents in need. These donations will directly support food distribution in the Richmond region the week of November 4.
• Donate (your time): The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond is sharing volunteer opportunities related directly to food insecurity and food access.
• Donate (your food): Feed More will accept donations of food. You can learn more about how and what to donate on feedmore.org.

The City of Richmond, in partnership with The Salvation Army, announces the activation of the Salvation Army Inclement Weather Shelter (IWS), located at 1900 Chamberlayne Avenue. The IWS will function as an overnight shelter beginning Thursday, Nov 6 to help residents stay safe and warm during periods of extremely cold temperatures.

This activation falls outside of the regular cold weather shelter season (November 15 – April 15) and is being implemented in response to forecasted low overnight temperatures this weekend and upcoming week. The Inclement Weather Shelter will open for the winter season on Saturday, November 15 at 5 p.m.

The shelter will operate:

• Thursday, Nov. 6 – Friday, Nov. 7: 5 p.m. – 8 a.m.
• Monday, Nov. 10 – Tuesday, Nov. 11: 5 p.m. – 11 a.m.
• Tuesday, Nov. 11 –Wednesday, Nov. 12: 5 p.m. – 8 a.m.
• Thursday, Nov. 13 – Friday, Nov. 14: 5 p.m. – 8 a.m.
• Friday, Nov. 14 – Saturday, November 15 : 5 p.m. – 8 a.m.

Guests are encouraged to arrive by 10 p.m. to ensure check-in and placement before lights out.

“The City of Richmond remains committed to ensuring that every resident has a safe place to go when temperatures drop to dangerous levels,” said Mayor Danny Avula. “We are grateful for our continued partnership with The Salvation Army and the many community organizations working together to protect our most vulnerable neighbors.”

The shelter is accessible by GRTC Route 1 with nearby stops along Chamberlayne Parkway. Riders can use the GRTC Transit On The Go app or visit ridegrtc.com to plan their trip.

For more information about the City’s cold weather response and available resources, residents can visit Inclement Weather | Richmond.

Richmond, VA - The City of Richmond Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) is pleased to announce two Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for affordable housing developments at city-owned surplus property sites in the City's 6th and 7th districts. The two sites-one at 212 N. 18th St. and the other at 911 & 913 Hull St. - are each ideally situated in the historic neighborhoods of Shockoe Bottom and Manchester, respectively, and present a unique opportunity to add quality affordable housing through the creative and intentional use of surplus properties.

On Wednesday, City leaders gathered with community members, nonprofit and for-profit developers, and others at the 212 N. 18th St. location (a City-owned parking lot) to celebrate the announcement and to discuss the RFP process and site details. "Take a good look at this asphalt," said Councilwoman Cynthia Newbille. "Because tomorrow, this will be a place that Richmonders can call home."

"We endeavor to be a City that creates opportunities, fosters community, and provides every Richmonder the opportunity to have a safe, quality, affordable roof over their heads" said Chief Administrative Officer Odie Donald II. "We are fortunate, in my view, to be able to seize a moment where everyone is aligned on this goal; a goal outlined in the Mayoral Action Plan and one which I am laser focused on seeing through. I am excited to see the results of this first step on the path of delivery."

Proposals are due to HCD staff by February 24, 2026 at 3:00pm. Applications will be scored by an evaluation committee which will consider applications based on factors including conceptual design, project financing, community benefit, and demonstrated experience, among others.

Additional site information as well as RFP guidelines and evaluation details can be found in the attached or online via the following: 

• 212 N. 18th St. (click for more)
• 911 and 913 Hull St. (click for more)

"We are grateful to have so many talented for-profit and nonprofit developers in this town," said Director of Housing and Community Development Merrick Malone. "I look forward to seeing what they bring to the table in transforming these spaces into the quality, affordable, mixed-use development that we need."