Mayor of Richmond, Virginia facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mayor of the City of Richmond, Virginia |
|
|---|---|
.jpg) Danny Avula since January 1, 2025 |
|
| Style | The Honorable |
| Term length | Four years renewable once |
| Inaugural holder | William Foushee |
| Formation | 17th century |
| Salary | $125,000 |
| Website | www.ci.richmond.va.us/Mayor/index.aspx |
The Mayor of the City of Richmond, Virginia is the top leader of the city's government. Think of them as the chief executive officer for Richmond! The mayor's office manages all city services. This includes things like public property and police and fire protection. They also make sure city, state, and federal laws are followed in Richmond. The mayor helps manage the city's budget, which is about $765 million each year.
Contents
Who is the Current Mayor?
The current mayor of Richmond is Danny Avula. He is a member of the Democratic Party. Mayor Avula was chosen by voters in an election on November 5, 2024. He officially started his job on January 1, 2025.
A Look at the Mayor's History
.jpg)
In May 1782, leaders in Virginia wanted to move the state capital. They wanted a place safer from British attacks than Williamsburg. Richmond had been a temporary capital before. It was suggested by Thomas Jefferson. Soon, it was decided to make Richmond the permanent capital.
Two months later, on July 2, Richmond officially became a city. A special document called a charter was written. Twelve men were chosen from the city. They then picked one of themselves to be the Mayor. They also chose a Recorder and four Aldermen. The other six men became part of the Common Council. Most jobs lasted three years. However, the mayor could only serve for one year at a time.
A vote happened the very next day. Dr. William Foushee, Sr. was chosen as Richmond's very first mayor.
In March 1851, the city decided to change its original charter. This new plan said that all city officials should be chosen by popular vote. This means citizens would vote for them directly. After William Lambert served for 12 years, and a short time with Samuel C. Pulliam, elections were held. Joseph C. Mayo won and became mayor.
Mayor Mayo's time in office ended in April 1865. This was just weeks before the American Civil War finished. Union forces took control of the city at that time.
The system from the second City Charter worked well for a while. This was when Richmond was smaller. Most voters knew the people they were voting for. They also understood what the jobs required.
In 1948, Richmond changed its government again. The city stopped having a popularly elected mayor. Instead, it used a council-manager system. In this system, a city council hires a professional manager to run the city. This lasted until 2004. That year, the City Charter was changed once more. This brought back the idea of a mayor chosen by the people. Former Virginia Governor L. Douglas Wilder was elected mayor that year.
What Offices Does the Mayor Appoint?
- Further information: List of Richmond, Virginia agencies
The mayor has the power to choose leaders for different city offices and departments. This means the mayor picks who will be in charge of these areas. One important role the mayor appoints is the:
- Chief Administrative Officer
See also
