After the Election, Go Meet an Effective Mayor

Sadly enough, it's hard to tell after 14 debates and forums what exactly Richmond's going to get when its next mayor is elected on November 4 but two weeks after the election Richmonders can discover how an effective mayor can transform a city.

By effective mayor, we mean Rachel Flynn's favorite mayor, Joseph P. Riley of Charleston, South Carolina. If you attended any Downtown Master Plan session where Flynn spoke, or gazed idly at the glowing numbers on the elevator panel as you shared a ride with her to the lobby, you've heard her invoke Riley (or randomly mutter his name, as if warding off bad design concepts).

On November 18, the Richmond Regional Planning District Commission will be hosting Riley for an afternoon. It's titled "Building A Better Richmond, Part I," which implies that there will be a Part II and maybe a trilogy; Riley will demonstrate his prowess with the Force from 3:00 until 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 18, at the Greater Richmond Convention Center.

During his 33 years as Mayor of Charleston, South Carolina, Joe Riley has led efforts to revitalize Charleston's waterfront, preserve its architecture, rehabilitate historic buildings, develop nationally acclaimed affordable housing, and use tourism as a catalyst for sustained economic development.  Mayor Riley's tenure is living proof that excellent urban design and the creation of superior civic spaces can lead to world class urban renewal. Mayor Riley speaks passionately about urban livability and the creation of communities in which all citizens enjoy the benefits and beauty of their surroundings.

Admission is free, but the RRPDC asks individuals to register by phone at (804) 323-2033 or e-mail at jfry@richmondregional.org. To learn more about Mayor Riley, go to the City of Charleston website.