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
VISITORS WELCOME Rotary – Next Meeting Friday, May 29, 2026 | BARSHEEP
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at the Richmond Golf Club (address below) on Friday, May 29, 12:30pm. BARSHEEP City Trees Project Ed Church Berkeley Rotary President Elect We want to reduce the Urban Heat Island effect,...
Do We Really Want Democratic Socialists Running Richmond?
Vote for Mayor: Ahmad Anderson, City Council: Brandon Evans and Soheila Bana. A common thread that runs through candidates Claudia Jimenez, Eduardo Martinez and Jamin Purcell is their affiliation with, support of, and support by the Democratic Socialists of...
Remembering Richmond’s Vietnam Losses this Memorial Day 2026
Memorial Day is a federal holiday for remembering and honoring the U.S. military personnel who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May. It is also considered to be the unofficial beginning of summer....
Ahmad Anderson is the Only Candidate Who Answered My 21 Questions
1. How would you allocate the $550 million Chevron settlement funds? I would not treat those dollars like a one-time spending spree. I would allocate them with discipline, transparency, and a clear public return. First, I would stabilize Richmond’s core...
Sierra City Historic Resources
The Mountain Messenger Forum to Develop Vision for Sierra City Historic Resources The May 23 meeting will explore preservation opportunities and economic benefits. The trestle bridge at the Kentucky Mine - one of Sierra City’s historic...
City of Richmond Primary Election 2026 ICYMI
Election day is June 2, 2026. Vote by mail ballots went out yesterday. Because of Measure J of 2023, the Richmond City Charter was amended to require a primary election. If one of the candidates does not receive a majority of the vote in the primary, the top...