‘There is no reason for you to be concerned’: Richmond, Henrico leaders unclear on path toward stable water system

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — One Henrico County leader expressed concerns that the county and the city of Richmond are not aligned on how to create a shared water system.

During a recent meeting, officials from both jurisdictions gathered to discuss the formation of a regional water advisory board, an idea prompted by a water crisis in January.

While leaders agreed in principle to explore a more unified approach, some questioned whether the effort is necessary — or if there's genuine agreement on the path forward.

“I think all of us probably have something to say. I'm not sure we are all there with the same focus,” said Tyrone Nelson, a Henrico County Board of Supervisors member.

MORE: Richmond, Henrico leaders discuss water crisis, debate best path forward

The meeting revealed divisions, particularly among Richmond City Council members. Some argued that the city’s water treatment plant is fully capable of meeting existing obligations and questioned the need for a new advisory body.

“There is no reason for you to be concerned that our plant is not capable of providing the contract obligation that we have,” said Councilmember Ellen Robertson.

Councilmember Nicole Jones also questioned the necessity of the new group, asking, “Is there a reason why we need to put another body together?”

Nelson, however, emphasized the importance of transparency and inclusion, noting that Henrico leaders often lack insight into the ongoing management of Richmond’s water system because they are not involved in key discussions.

“We're not a part of those discussions,” Nelson said. “So, it seems like the treatment plant, based upon what Scott Morris was saying, based upon the confidence that Ellen Robertson spoke with, that the water treatment plant is good.”

He advocates for a regional advisory board that would provide consistent updates and a platform for all stakeholders — including residents — to be informed and engaged.

“I don't ever want to have to worry about waking up and turning the spigot on and not knowing the water's there because we had an institutional problem,” Nelson said.

8News contacted several Richmond City Council members for clarity on what they deemed a successful partnership, but they had not responded as of the time of reporting.