Richmond’s mayoral candidates brought visions and promises for the Greater Fulton area during a forum Tuesday evening organized by the Greater Fulton Civic Association and the League of Women Voters of the Richmond Metro Area.

Andreas Addison, Danny Avula, Michelle Mosby, Maurice Neblett and Harrison Roday shared a wide range of ideas to the event, hosted at Mount Calvary Baptist Church, with almost 60 people in attendance.

The forum was just one of many held this week for the mayoral election, as acknowledged by moderator Sam Florer, but the region brought plenty of unique topics and concerns for candidates to address.

General issues such as education funding and affordable housing were addressed alongside more specific matters for residents, from the impact of road shutdowns on the area to supporting underserved neighborhood organizations.

  

Candidates worked to tout their connections to the Fulton area throughout the forum, while also acknowledging the sense of disconnect and disinvestment residents have felt from the city.

Avula referenced his wife’s work at Chimborazo Elementary School, their time living in the area and his previous work as he offered ideas to the audience.

Some of these ideas included state-level partnerships to support education, uplifting and honoring little-known local histories, and ensuring a strong city staff.

“When government is run well, really remarkable things can happen,” Avula said, “and I want to bring that experience to City Hall.”

Neblett took a similar approach, noting his family’s long connection to the area and presenting himself as an “equalizer” whose life set him apart from the other candidates. He also said that experience was what made him best qualified to resolve the problems residents faced. Proposals included affordable homeownership and a business resource center in City Hall, with a focus on transparency and accountability.

“There’s a lot that hasn’t changed here in 30 years, since I ran around here at 5 years old,” Neblett said. “We know that local government needs to step up. How much longer do we wait?”

Mosby highlighted her record in city government while pledging to bring a cohesive, comprehensive vision for the city’s various districts and government. Her proposals, whether focused on affordable housing, hiring practices, support for local organizations or other questions, were largely shaped by her experience and the relationships she’s built over the years.

“We need someone who’s going to be intentional, across the board, in Fulton,” Mosby said.

Roday relied on his various endorsements from Richmond organizations and his past work with small businesses in pitching a vision of the Fulton area better connected to the larger city and with a more engaged leader. Revitalizing the area’s commercial corridor were among the proposals he shared, alongside targeted tax relief, improved communication and support for those already living in the city.

“I think there are opportunities for the city to be a much stronger partner,” Roday said, “whether it’s in supporting small businesses directly or working to support residents who want to invest in their neighborhoods or their community.”

Addison drew on his years of experience in various city government roles to position himself as someone capable of streamlining operations and improving transparency, ensuring residents understand city expenditures and projects. His background also shaped several of his proposals, including increased support for middle school athletics, the creation of a housing conservancy, and a focus on prioritizing community input.

“I’ve worked within City Hall, I’ve been asked the questions you’re asking your council leadership,” Addison said. “I want to make sure you have answers.”

Mayoral candidates met once again for the Richmond Mayorathon discussion hosted in the Virginia Museum of History & Culture Wednesday evening.