Tom Butt
Architect, Recovered Politician, Historic Preservationist and Author
This web page started as a political campaign resource in the early 1990s. After 28 years on the Richmond City Council and eight years as elected mayor, I termed out in 2023, having served longer continuously than anyone in Richmond history. I have now reverted full-time to the architectural profession.
I started the blog TOM BUTT E-FORUM in 2000 to fill in the gaps and misinformation from traditional journalism. Although I have transitioned away from the predominantly community and political content , I have continued the E-FORUM, and the Archives are probably the best resource available for Richmond political history 2000 – 2023.
Latest E-FORUM Articles
From Email: Richmond’s Southern Waterfront Attractions and Opportunities Dwindling
Once a promising and exciting projection of Richmond’s future, the southern waterfront in the last two years has seen a shocking reversal of fortune. After years hosting events attended by thousands, the Craneway Pavilion, after a flash in the pan run as...
From Email: Rosie the Riveter Trust Gala Celebrates 25th Anniversary of Rosie the
Figure 1 - Rosie Visitor Center Shut Down by the Trump Administration While the Trump Administration shut down the Visitor Center at Rosie the Riveter WW II Home Front National Historical Park, Rosie the Riveter Trust celebrated the park’s 25th...
From Email: Launching Liberty
Last night, I was at Lara’s Fine Dining, enjoying dinner at the Early Childhood Mental Health Program Board/Donor Appreciation event. Outside the window was a placid marina that just over 80 years ago was the epicenter of the Richmond Kaiser Shipyards, bustling...
From Email: Fall Family Day at Richmond Art Center, Saturday October 11, noon to 3
https://richmondartcenter.org/events/fall-family-day-10-11-25/ Fall Family Day Celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day Saturday, October 11, 12pm-3pm | Free Richmond Art Center, 2540 Barrett Avenue, Richmond, CA Come celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day with us! Join the...
From Email: VISITORS WELCOME — Next Rotary Meeting Friday, October 10, 2025 | Art
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at the Richmond Golf Club (address below) on Friday, October 10, 12:30pm. Art in Richmond John Boychuk Richmond Rotarian John Boychuk will share some of his current projects with Rotary....
From Email: UCLA Recognition
I attended graduate school at UCLA 1971-73., receiving a Master’s Degree in Architecture and Urban Design. Having just left the Army the previous year, I used the GI Bill to pay for it, and Shirley worked to support us. In 1973, I also founded Interactive...