Wednesday, January 10, 2018

The council approved a teacher housing partnership with the West Contra Costa Unified School District that will offer first-time homebuyers loans worth 10% of purchase price up to $50,000. Five residents spoke in favor of the program during public comment, emphasizing the need to help teachers afford homes in Richmond.

The council received updates on 1,981 new homes currently under construction or in the planning process across Richmond. This housing development presentation was given to both council and school board members to coordinate planning efforts.

School district officials presented updates on the Richmond Promise college scholarship program, which provides funding for Richmond students using $35 million from the Chevron refinery agreement. The program launched in 2016 and is funded over 10 years through the Environmental Enhancement Fund.

The council also received reports on the district's facilities upgrade program, including the complete replacement of Wilson Elementary with a new building and seismic safety improvements needed at Kennedy High School. Other updates included the ACHIEVE summer camp partnership and implementation of free feminine hygiene products in school restrooms as required by California law.