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
RETRACTION) Richmond CA Planning Manager Thinks He is in Richmond VA
Well, I’ve been scammed. This is happening in several cities and counties. The email address is planning_ci.richmond.ca@usa.com, which is not a City of Richmond email address. Want to receive TOM BUTT E-FORUM delivered to your email address?...
Richmond CA Planning Manager Thinks He is in Richmond VA
To show you how out of touch Richmond’s highest-ranking planner, Avery Stark, is, he doesn’t even know where he works. The signature for his emails uses the seal of Richmond, Virginia. Sincerely, Avery Stark Planning Manager City of Richmond 450 Civic...
New fund helps Richmond families afford swim lessons – Richmond Standa
New fund helps Richmond families afford swim lessons - Richmond Standard https://richmondstandard.com/community/2026/04/10/new-scholarship-fund-helps-richmond-families-afford-swim-lessons/?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=nextdoor.com&utm_campaign=nextdoor_news...
Next Rotary Meeting Friday, April 10, 2026 | Johnnie Greenstock and the 4P’s of Nutritio
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at the Richmond Golf Club (address below) on Friday, April 10, 12:30pm. Johnnie Greenstock and the 4P's of Nutrition Monica Wilcox Nutritional education for children. I have developed a nutrition...
Campus Bay Legal Challenge Denied by Appellate Court
While I was still mayor, the City Council approved a major development project known as Campus Bay, a 89.6-acre property planned for up to 2.1 million square feet of R&D/Business/Service, up to 320,000 square feet of retail use, up to 2,530...
Candidate Questions
It would be helpful if mayoral and city council candidates provided their opinions and positions on actual public policy issues that are likely to be addressed by the new city council. Most candidates tout their qualifications with broad commitments that mean...