September 15, 2026
Mayor's Office
DATE: September 15, 2026
TO: Members of the City Council
FROM: Mayor Martinez
Subject: Appointment of Free Brown to the Macdonald Ave Corridor Taskforce
FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with this item.
PREVIOUS COUNCIL
ACTION:
None.
STATEMENT OF THE
ISSUE:
Free Brown is applying to serve on the Macdonald Ave
Corridor Taskforce.
RECOMMENDED ACTION: APPOINT Free Brown to the Macdonald Ave Corridor Taskforce to a vacant seat with a new term ending
December 31, 2026 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo
Martinez 510-620-6503).
DISCUSSION:
Free Brown is seeking appointment to the MacDonald Ave Corridor Taskforce. Free is a downtown Richmond business owner who is committed to strengthening the local economy through support for small businesses, cultural vitality, and equitable growth.
Drawing from her firsthand experience as a business owner, she understands the challenges and opportunities facing the community. Through her work combining food, AGENDA
REPORT
September 15, 2026
arts, and community wellness, she has demonstrated how culturally rooted businesses can foster local ownership, encourage responsible investment, and promote community- centered economic development and expansion.
DOCUMENTS ATTACHED:
Attachment 1 – Free Brown’s redacted application