RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Richmond Mayor Danny Avula presented his $3 billion budget plan proposal to city council members detailing where crucial investments will go and where funding for others will be slashed. Avula said the goal for fiscal year 2026 was creating a budget that would not raise tax es and reflects his council's shared vision for the city. “This year, we are building a budget at a time when we as a city face rising costs and there’s a very uncertain federal landscape,” Avula said. Avula highlighted an $18.6 million investment for city employee salaries, technology and police vehicles. “We worked with leaders across every city department for our community to find creative ways and our needs while also creating focus our priorities,” Avula said. Avula also stated improvements to be made for the 311-call center, affordable housing and transportation services like the Greater Richmond Transit Center (GRTC). However, Avula announced non-profit organizations would only be getting $9 million, as opposed to the $13.4 million they received during the FY25 budget cycle. While the Richmond Police Department has historically budgeted for 725 police officers, only 60 could be added in 2026 to its current total of 590. In addition, Richmond Public Schools (RPS) got $9.6 million dollar -- nearly $21 million less than what the school district asked for. “While we are grateful for the 9.6 million, we must recognize that it's just not enough,” said RPS chair Shavonda Fernandez. “We have higher credit score. Our absentee rates have gone down dramatically, amongst other things. If that doesn't show that it's important for us to invest in our children, I don't know what does.” Fernandez said the district will continue advocating for the money she believes students need. City council members will review the proposed budget in upcoming work sessions. To get the full FY26 budget proposal, click here. ...read more read less