RICHMOND, Va. -- Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney said the economic impact of COVID-19 on the city’s budget will lead to “significant” shortfalls for this and next year’s budget.
“We're talking to tens of millions here in the City of Richmond,” said Stoney.
Stoney, who introduced his FY2021 budget a little over a month ago, had included what he called “historic investments” in schools, affordable housing, and roads and sidewalks.
“And just like businesses, just like homes, we're going to have to curtail,” said Stoney. “We're going to curtail a lot of that back, because there will be a significant loss of revenue. Because we've been under a stay at home order for the last for at least a week, and we've been social distancing for roughly a month.”
Stoney said he is required to present a balanced budget to city council and he would take a responsible approach to doing so.
“I'm asking the community to buckle up because we're going to have to look at some significant losses,” added Stoney.
Stoney said we was going to present his changes at Monday’s FY2021 budget work session for city council, but later in the day the Office of the City Clerk announced Monday’s meeting had been postponed and the next scheduled meeting would be April 20.
Depend on CBS 6 News and WTVR.com for the most complete coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic.
COVID-19 Precautions
Most patients with COVID-19 have mild to moderate symptoms. However, in a small proportion of patients, COVID-19 can lead to more severe illness, including death, particularly among those who are older or those who have chronic medical conditions.
COVID-19 spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes.
Symptoms include fever, cough, and difficulty breathing. Symptoms appear within 14 days of being exposed to an infectious person.
Virginia health officials urged the following precautions:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.Stay home when you are sick.
- Avoid contact with sick people.Avoid non-essential travel.