In the heart of Richmond City Hall, a passionate plea echoed through the chambers during the formal council meeting on September 8, 2025. A Presbyterian pastor and member of the Richmonders Involved to Strengthen Communities (RISC) stood before the council, urging city leaders to fulfill their legal obligation to fund the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. This fund, he emphasized, is not just a financial reserve but a lifeline for the city's most vulnerable residents, particularly those earning 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI) or below.

The pastor's call to action highlighted a critical issue that has persisted for over four years: the city’s failure to adhere to an ordinance passed in January 2021. This law mandates that all expiring tax abatements be placed into a special reserve, or "lockbox," from which funds can only be transferred to the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. Yet, according to the pastor, the director of finance has never executed this transfer, leaving a significant gap in resources meant to address Richmond's pressing affordable housing crisis.

Council member Robertson, who has been actively engaged in discussions surrounding housing issues, expressed gratitude for the community's involvement and reiterated the urgency of the situation. She acknowledged that the need for affordable housing is growing, with estimates suggesting that the city requires at least 16,000 additional affordable units—a number that continues to rise as development lags behind demand.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment among council members to tackle the housing crisis head-on. With support from RISC and other community advocates, there is hope for a renewed focus on establishing a dedicated funding stream for the Affordable Housing Trust Fund. As the council deliberates, the voices of concerned citizens serve as a reminder of the pressing need for action in a city where safe and affordable housing remains a distant dream for many.

As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and determination. The council's next steps could very well shape the future of affordable housing in Richmond, making it a pivotal moment for both city leaders and the residents they serve.