The Richmond City Council held an informal meeting on July 28, 2025, focusing on key updates and personnel changes within the city government. The meeting began with an introduction from the Mayor, who highlighted the progress made in the first six months of their administration.

A significant portion of the discussion centered around the new Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), Odie Donald, who officially started on July 9. The Mayor expressed enthusiasm about Donald's extensive experience in municipal leadership, having previously served in various capacities in cities such as South Fulton, Athens, and Atlanta. The Mayor emphasized Donald's dual expertise in operational management and political dynamics, which is expected to benefit Richmond's governance.

The Mayor also underscored the shared values between Donald and the city leadership team, particularly regarding transparency, accountability, and a commitment to public service. These principles are seen as essential for fostering a collaborative and effective city government.

As CAO, Donald's primary responsibility will be to oversee the daily operations of the city government. The Mayor noted that Donald has already begun to engage with city directors and staff, indicating a proactive approach to his new role.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the administration's commitment to enhancing city operations and serving the community effectively. Further updates on city initiatives and Donald's integration into the team are anticipated in future meetings.