October 7, 2025
Mayor's Office
DATE: October 7, 2025
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Councilmember Robinson
Subject:
Establishment of a Council and City Staff Ad Hoc
Committee for the Black Resiliency Project and Fund
(BRPF)
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no direct financial impact from the establishment of the Ad Hoc Committee. City staff time will be required to support the Committee’s meetings and work.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
June 17, 2025
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
While the Black Resiliency Project and Fund has been
established and funded, it is important that the Council remain directly involved as stewards of its intent and
priorities. Forming an Ad Hoc Committee of Council and
staff will ensure the fund’s implementation reflects the vision behind its creation, strengthens accountability, and builds community trust.
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
DIRECT the City Manager to establish a Council and City staff Ad Hoc Committee on the Black Resiliency Fund,
composed of Mayor Eduardo Martinez and
Councilmember Doria Robinson, to provide guidance to
staff regarding the purpose, goals, and use of the Fund — Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503)/
Councilmember Doria Robinson (510-620-6565).
AGENDA
REPORT
October 7, 2025
DISCUSSION:
The Black Resiliency Project and Fund (BRPF) was created to begin to address and acknowledge long-standing inequities and disproportionate impacts faced by Richmond residents of African descent. As the project moves into the implementation phase, clarity is needed to ensure that resources are used effectively and, in a manner, consistent with the fund’s original intent.
Purpose:
The Ad Hoc Committee will guide the goals and implementation of the BRPF, help staff interpret its original intent, review and recommend approaches to allocation and accountability, and serve as a liaison between staff, Council, and the community.
Timeline:
The Ad Hoc Committee will be dissolved once City staff have developed clear implementation guidelines and the full City Council has adopted them. Ad Hoc dissolution is anticipated to occur within six (6) months of the Committee’s formation, but no later than April 30, 2026.
Membership:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Councilmember Doria Robinson
Designated City staff (to be identified by the City Manager)
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 - June 17, 2025, Agenda Report - Establish a Black Resiliency Project and Fund