The City of Richmond filled several top leadership roles last week, with new appointments made in government operations, election oversight and gun violence prevention.

On Monday, Richmond City Council approved Odie Donald II as the city’s new Chief Administrative Officer. Seven councilors voted in favor of confirming Mayor Danny Avula’s nominee. Donald will begin his duties Wednesday, July 9, succeeding interim CAO Sabrina Joy-Hogg and acting CAO Sharon Ebert.

 Odie Donald II
 

During the discussion, some concerns arose about the speed of the selection process. Third District Councilor Kenya Gibson abstained from voting. However, most council members expressed enthusiasm about Donald’s qualifications and the importance of filling this key role.

Donald currently serves as chief of staff to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, and will bring almost 20 years of experience in government and organizational operations throughout Georgia.

“I’m honored by the Council’s confirmation, and deeply grateful to Mayor Avula for the opportunity to serve,” Donald said in a statement released after the vote. “There’s important work ahead, and I’m looking forward to partnering with the Mayor, Council and approximately 4,000 dedicated employees to get the business of the city done.”

In addition, David Levine was announced as Richmond’s new General Registrar by the Richmond Electoral Board. Levine starts the position Tuesday, July 1, following a nationwide search to fill the vacancy left by Keith Balmer’s departure late last year amid an investigation into misconduct and misuse of funds.

“He’s worked in a lot of aspects of elections and has a wealth of knowledge about the industry,” Electoral Board Chair Starlet Stevens said. “He comes to us with excellent qualifications.”

Also last week, Gregory Hopkins was named director of the city’s new Office of Gun Violence Prevention during a national gun violence awareness press conference at City Hall.

Hopkins brings over 20 years of juvenile justice experience from the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services, where he supported policy and programs aimed at juvenile justice, delinquency prevention and racial equity.

“He is an experienced and compassionate expert,” Avula said. “Together, if aligned, I know that we can create a Richmond where every child and every family and every neighborhood is safe from gun violence.”

Hopkins’ appointment follows the recent creation of the Office of Gun Violence Prevention, announced alongside initiatives including the designation of the first Friday in June as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in Richmond.