Supporting Federal Workers After the Shutdown
The Town Council also approved a resolution to support federal employees affected by the recent shutdown. If you are a federal worker who went unpaid, your second-quarter taxes due December 7th can be delayed by 60 days, with no penalties and no interest. It’s a small but meaningful way to support the essential work you do.
Today marks one year since the current council was sworn in, and since I renewed my commitment to serve as your town councilor. It has been a productive year, and I’m excited to share a few updates on ongoing initiatives. Please be on the lookout for public hearings on these items to share your opinion on them. Or reach out any time!
1. Recreation Department
The Town Council has approved an expansion of services within the Recreation Department. These updates include:
- Providing support for the Senior Activities Committee and assuming oversight of the Town Pavilion at 4 Richmond Townhouse Road.
- Formalizing partnerships with both public and private organizations to strengthen and grow community programs.
- Updating the department’s staffing structure, including creating a dedicated Summer Camp Director position and refining roles for seasonal employees.
During early discussions of this reorganization, one proposal suggested having the Recreation Director “serve as a first point of contact for residents in need of social services”. I felt strongly that our ordinances should maintain clear distinctions between departments. Residents in need deserve straightforward, direct pathways to assistance. After legal review by our town solicitor, this proposal was removed.
No changes were made to the Human Services Director position or its responsibilities. This role remains funded through ARPA until the end of 2026.
At the most recent Council Meeting we appointed Robin Woodmansee as the Recreation Director!
2. Transfer Station Changes
We’ve been reviewing updates to improve efficiency at the Transfer Station, including increased signage to help residents navigate the facility. A public hearing will be held to discuss proposed amendments to Chapter 8.18 – Transfer Station, including:
- Changing open days to Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday
- Closing on Tuesdays and Thursdays
- Updating tipping fees to reflect increased state costs
- Adding a fee for air conditioners
- Updating rates for construction & demolition debris
📅 Public Hearing: December 16, 2025 at 6pm
Because I do not use the Transfer Station regularly, I requested that information about these proposed changes be shared directly with all residents who visit the facility before the hearing.
3. Policy for Use of Town Property
The Council has been working on a clearer, more accessible policy for the use of town property for public events. Our goal is to streamline the process and eliminate some of the hassle that residents and organizations have experienced in the past. More details will be shared as we finalize the policy. There will be a Public Hearing that date is to be determined when the council finalizes its draft.
4. Door-to-Door Sales Regulations
The Council is also reviewing updates to Richmond Code of Ordinances Chapter 5.20, which governs hawkers, peddlers, and door-to-door salespersons. After several discussions—and following guidance from our solicitor—we are working on changes that would:
- Require door-to-door salespeople to obtain a permit
- Limit the hours they may go door to door
- Increase the licensing fee
- Use collected fees to provide “No Soliciting” signs for residents
- Impose fines to anyone who trespasses and continues past a No Soliciting Sign.
While we cannot fully prohibit commercial free speech without legal risk, we can take steps to regulate it. If you prefer not to receive any solicitation, I encourage you to post a “No Soliciting” sign at your home.
There will be a Public Hearing that date is to be determined when the council finalizes its draft.
5. Municipal Court Update
The Town Council appointed its first Municipal Court Judge! Congratulations to Attorney Nicholas Solitro.
I brought the Municipal Court forward for discussion, following voter approval in 2022, and I’m thrilled to see this new public service moving toward completion. Two final approvals remain: appointing a court clerk and setting the court’s operating hours. No public hearing is required, as we have already established this ordinance.
Current Community Survey
The Wellness Committee is conducting a Richmond-specific transportation survey, and your input matters. Completing it takes only a few minutes and you’ll be entered to win a $25 Stop & Shop gift card. Survey link: https://forms.gle/p48hwLinqB9mPTaZ6
