Richmond City Council has had a full plate during the last four years dealing with issues and proposals ranging from the $1.5 billion Navy Hill Development Corp. Coliseum and Downtown development plan to an increase in the city meals tax to fund the construction of three new schools.

The next City Council will be faced with even tougher issues as Richmond works to recover from the impact of COVID-19 on businesses, schools, health, housing and government operations, just to name a few.

The next City Council also must grapple with police reform, racial equity and the transformation of public spaces following the removal of Confederate statues along Monument Avenue and elsewhere in the city. These are all significant issues spotlighted by the recent months of protests in Richmond following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police in Minneapolis.

We need a City Council comprised of rigorous and forward thinkers who, while they may disagree on the details, can come together and help navigate the city through the problems of COVID-19 with the compassion and equity that recognizes the value of all residents and works to lift those of all backgrounds.

To that end, we are endorsing six current City Council members who are seeking re-election: Andreas D. Addison, 1st District; Kristen Nye Larson, 4th District; Stephanie A. Lynch, 5th District; Ellen F. Robertson, 6th District; Cynthia I. Newbille, 7th District; and Michael J. Jones, 9th District.

While we have not agreed with all of them on all things during the past four years, we believe they will continue to work hard to move the city forward, with consideration of and equity for all.

We were particularly impressed with Ms. Lynch and Dr. Jones going into the streets during the recent protests to see for themselves the conflict between demonstrators and police. It was unfortunate that their resulting resolution to ban the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and other non-lethal weapons to control crowds was rejected by a City Council subcommittee and not resurrected by the full council. We hope, however, they will continue their efforts in this important fight.

Ms. Lynch also has been a leader in city efforts to provide day care for families during the COVID-19 crisis. Assistance for families, students and businesses must continue to be a priority of the mayor and City Council if Richmond is to bounce back successfully from the pandemic.

After discussions and reviewing candidates’ records, we believe that Tavarris J. Spinks in the 2nd District and Amy C. Wentz in the 8th District would be the best additions to City Council to help tackle the current problems.

Mr. Spinks has a solid grasp on issues large and small within the district, and we believe his analytical skills and energy will add focus to the council.

Ms. Wentz, who has lived outside the district and returned home, will bring new ideas, new vision and fresh energy to the 8th District that has been served well by Councilwoman Reva M. Trammell in the past. But we believe it is time for Councilwoman Trammell to step down and use her energies elsewhere for the good of the district.

We make no endorsement in the 3rd District. We recognize the strengths of each of the three candidates vying for the open seat and leave it to the voters to decide who can best represent them and their interests on City Council.