Richmond City Councilwoman Kim Gray officially announced she’s running for mayor at a campaign kickoff event at Bar Solita on Sunday.
Gray has served on city council since 2017, representing parts of the Fan and Scott’s Addition neighborhoods. She was also on the school board from 2009 to 2016. More recently, Gray led the fight against Mayor Levar Stoney’s proposal to redevelop the Coliseum and Navy Hill.
At her event on Sunday, Gray said she would fight against what she sees as an ineffective and opaque city hall, led by Stoney.
“Look at the unanswered questions and timeless delays in permitting, street paving or repairs,” she said. “Look at the closing of the Coliseum with no explanation and no reasons given. Shouldn’t the people have some say?”
Gray is the first person to announce they will run against Stoney, who is up for re-election in November. Anti-Navy Hill activist and lawyer Justin Griffin is also exploring a run for mayor.
Both candidates have indicated they will run on a platform of getting back to the basics, focusing on improving school funding and the condition of city streets.
“I envision a school system that allows every child the opportunity to become the best versions of themselves no matter their zip code,” Gray said. “We’re not there. We still have a ways to go, but I know we will get there.”
In order to qualify as a candidate for mayor, Gray will now need to get 50 signatures from all nine districts of Richmond. She has not yet named a campaign manager.