Local government doesn’t happen in a vacuum! Advancing a Thriving Richmond means working across federal, state, and regional levels to make sure that our city has the resources and partnerships it needs to get things done. The Office of Intergovernmental Affairs is responsible for fostering those close working relationships with policymakers, leaders, and partners.  

What does the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs do on a daily basis?  

• Build and Strengthen Relationships. OIA works with federal, state, regional, and local government leaders to educate them about Richmond’s priorities and to identify areas where collaborative advocacy can move us forward faster. When the unexpected happens, OIA works across levels of government to help keep Richmond running.
• Develop and Align Legislative Priorities. Work closely with City leaders, Richmond's lobbyists, and elected partners to craft clear and actionable legislative agendas that reflect community and City needs. You can follow along with all of OIA's General Assembly work on the updates page.
• Collaborate to Advance Shared Goals. Partner with stakeholders, regional coalitions, and advocacy groups to promote legislation, funding opportunities, and projects that deliver results for the City's goals. The energy and expertise of Richmond and the Commonwealth's advocacy communities help the OIA find win-wins that will serve our residents better. For example, we are working to ensure Richmond can accelerate work to modernize its combined sewer system to protect water quality in the James without burdening ratepayers. OIA built a coalition and worked with over a dozen diverse partners to jointly support and advocate for the Commonwealth's investment in this essential project. Partnerships like these can involve coordinating meetings, circulating joint statements, and coordinating to speak jointly with legislators.