March 24, 2026
Mayor's Office
DATE: March 24, 2026
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM:
Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Subject:
Appointment of Asfar Ali to the Economic Development
Commission
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact associated with this item.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
N/A
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Asfar Ali is applying for a vacant seat on the Economic Development Commission
RECOMMENDED ACTION:
APPOINT Asfar Ali to a vacant seat on the Economic
Development Commission with a term that expires on
March 30, 2029 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo
Martinez 510-620-6503)
DISCUSSION:
Asfar Ali is seeking an appointment to the Economic Development Commission. He aims to bring a data-driven, execution-focused approach to economic strategy. Dr. Ali is a data scientist, holds a Doctor of Engineering degree, and is a local property owner AGENDA
REPORT
March 24, 2026
with a strong interest in applying proven analytics to support Richmond’s economic development efforts.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Asfar Ali’s redacted application.