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Steps to Achieve this Part of Gayle's Plan

2. Strong Economic Development with Social Equity

Historically, the industrial base of Richmond’s economy has been petrochemical and petrochemical related. Although a certain level of economic diversity currently exists, I believe we need to further broaden the base of our economy. We also need to demand responsibility and fair share of taxes from existing industry. This is paramount to build the Richmond of the future. Very few Richmond residents are employed in local petrochemical companies. I am committed to actions that will aid small businesses, spur employment, diversify the economy, and foster new technological innovations.

As mayor, I will:
Diversify the economy by shifting from reliance on a few industries to many industries,
protecting light industrial zones and expanding neighborhood-based planning.
Increase the general fund by eliminating all tax perks (like the utility users tax cap) and
collecting all outstanding revenue due to the city fund.
Support small businesses and balanced neighborhood economies. Rather than let
chain stores overrun our neighborhoods, I will support the creation of a municipal bank and
work with present local banks to offer low-interest loans to small businesses.
Create a Small Business Commission to help small business owners, many of whom
are women, be successful in Richmond
Generate good paying jobs by developing Richmond’s “human infrastructure,” and
creating apprenticeship and job training programs that feed directly into existing public
jobs. Create job opportunities that give our youth not only a paycheck, but a chance for a
meaningful experience in shaping a Better Richmond.
Grow green industries by expanding cost-effective energy conservation programs,
promoting solar-energy programs, and requiring the inclusion of local employment
opportunities in major environmental clean-up and redevelopment projects.
Support community groups, like Solar Richmond, dedicated to the promotion of
alternative energy throughout the City.
Expand the development of downtown Richmond, Macdonald Ave., 23rd Street, and
San Pablo Ave.
Put the arts to work by helping non-profit arts organizations stay solvent, increasing the
art components in public works projects, and supporting a cultural and entertainment
district featuring the diversity of Richmond‘s rainbow of cultures and traditions. The
district will attract bookstores, music stores, community theaters, as well as coffeehouse
and cafes, which will not only raise revenue, but will foster cultural growth and provide
gathering places for our residents, young and old.

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