Past fellows include Vice President-elect Kamala Harris, Stacey Abrams, Rep. Gabby Giffords Mayor Levar Stoney has been named a Rodel Public Leadership Fellow. The Aspen Institute’s Rodel Public Leadership Fellowship is a nonpartisan program that identifies and convenes political leaders to explore and examine the responsibilities of public leadership and its role in American democracy.  Past fellows include Former U.S. Representative Gabby Giffords, Stacey Abrams and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris. “I’m honored and excited to be a part of this cohort of service-minded elected officials, including many of my fellow mayors,” said Mayor Stoney. “I believe Richmond can serve as a shining example to other cities of how to remove barriers for residents and make democracy work, a mission entirely in line with the values and goals of the Rodel Fellowship.” Says Vice President at Aspen and program leader John Kroger: "The Rodel Fellowship brings together the nation’s most promising po

City’s opportunity for revenue-increasing economic development project subject to voter referendum  Mayor Stoney announced today that the city has issued a request for qualifications/proposals (RFQ/P), launching a competitive process to bring a world-class resort casino to Richmond, subject to voter approval.  The proposals are due to the city by no later than 3:00 pm EST on February 22, 2021. At that time, the administration will begin the selection process, which will include resident feedback and third-party expert consultation.    Legislation adopted by the Virginia General Assembly and signed into law by Governor Northam earlier this year authorizes the city to host a casino gaming establishment, subject to the residents of Richmond approving a casino referendum. That referendum is anticipated to be on the ballot in November of 2021. The law requires that, prior to requesting the court to order a casino referendum, the city select a preferred casino operator and location.    “This