08/26/2025
Mayor's Office
DATE: August 26, 2025
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Subject:
Authorization for International Travel to Shimada, Japan in October 2025
FINANCIAL IMPACT: Up to $16,000 total for airfare and land costs for city travelers (below). The individual appropriations for the Mayor, Councilmember, and council staff have funding to cover the cost.
Mayor Martinez – Account String: 01101011-400243
Vice Mayor Zepeda – Account String: 01115211-400243
Councilmember Jamelia Brown – Account String:
01115111-400243
Council Office, Mary Marable – Account String:
01115111-400243
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
September 17, 2019
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
A Richmond delegation seeks authorization to travel to
Shimada, Japan, in October 2025 to strengthen the
Sister City relationship, explore economic opportunities, and participate in cultural exchange. This visit continues the long-standing practice of delegations traveling
between Richmond and Shimada to maintain and grow
the partnership.
AGENDA
REPORT
08/26/2025
RECOMMENDED ACTION: AUTHORIZE a delegation of Mayor Martinez, Vice-Mayor Zepeda and Councilmember Brown and a City staff
member to travel to Shimada, Japan in October 2025 to
strengthen the Sister City relationship, explore economic opportunities and participate in a cultural exchange-
Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503).
DISCUSSION:
In 1964, the Richmond City Council voted to establish a Sister City affiliation with Shimada, Japan (Resolution 8337), fostering exchanges in culture, education, and civic engagement. The City Council has previously approved travel to Shimada, Japan, for the purpose of cultural exchange, reaffirming Richmond’s commitment to this relationship for more than 59 years. Over the years, both cities have hosted delegations, celebrated joint festivals, and maintained ongoing correspondence through the Richmond–Shimada Friendship Commission.
The City of Shimada has invited Richmond representatives to take part in the 2025 “Obi Matsuri,” a tradition that dates back to 1695. Richmond’s delegation, which includes elected officials, city staff, Shimada Friendship Commissioners, and community partners, will meet with Shimada officials, join in festival activities, and continue discussions aimed at deepening the Sister City relationship. Current and former members of the Richmond–Shimada Friendship Commission will join the delegation at their own expense.
This visit builds on a long history of cultural exchange and friendship between the two cities. It offers an opportunity to strengthen people-to-people connections, reaffirm Richmond’s commitment to international understanding, and highlight shared traditions.
The delegation will also explore economic ties, including potential collaborations in business, tourism, and educational partnerships, areas where Richmond and Shimada have mutual interest.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Invitation from the Mayor of Shimada
Attachment 2 – Resolution 8337 Establishing the Richmond–Shimada Friendship Commission