The following statement was released by Interim Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services Stephen W. Harms following a press conference held with City Auditor Umesh Dalal: “We appreciate the City Auditor’s continued assistance in identifying deficiencies and opportunities to improve the operations of the Richmond Department of Social Services (RDSS). We have made many improvements in that department, but clearly more are needed.  “Mayor Jones acted swiftly when deficiencies were initially found. Personnel changes were made from top to bottom. Three external reviews were requested and completed last year, providing a blueprint for improvements. Deputy Police Chief Tonya Vincent, who agreed to serve as the interim director for social services since May, initiated many improvements. We thank her for her dedicated service under very difficult conditions and wish her well in her new position. We soon expect to name a new permanent director to continue the progress started b...

~National honor recognizes collaborative campaign to ensure more low-income students are reading on grade level by the end of third grade~   The City of Richmond’s campaign to improve reading proficiency among its youngest students has been recognized as a 2013 Community Pacesetter by the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading   (GLR), an honor that reflects the energy, mobilization and creativity that the local community has brought to this important work. “I am extremely pleased to learn that Richmond has been named a 2013 Pacesetter Community by the Campaign for Grade-Level Reading. Collaboration is critical in addressing educational issues, and the range of partners involved in developing Richmond’s youth shows our community’s commitment to selfless sharing as we strive to achieve our grade level reading goals,” said Mayor Dwight C. Jones. “Engaging youth, strengthening families and transforming communities is paramount in building a stronger future for our great city.” Richmon...