Tom Butt
Architect, Recovered Politician, Historic Preservationist and Author
This web page started as a political campaign resource in the early 1990s. After 28 years on the Richmond City Council and eight years as elected mayor, I termed out in 2023, having served longer continuously than anyone in Richmond history. I have now reverted full-time to the architectural profession.
I started the blog TOM BUTT E-FORUM in 2000 to fill in the gaps and misinformation from traditional journalism. Although I have transitioned away from the predominantly community and political content , I have continued the E-FORUM, and the Archives are probably the best resource available for Richmond political history 2000 – 2023.
Latest E-FORUM Articles
Next Rotary Meeting Friday, October 31, 2025 | Meet District Governor
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at the Richmond Golf Club (address below) on Friday, October 31, 12:30pm. Joy Alaidarous District Governor District 5160 Joy Alaidarous is honored to serve as the District Governor of Rotary...
Tax Credits Could Fund 59% of the $228 Million Port Repair Project
One very important thing missed in the presentations and reports about the projected $228 million Port of Richmond repair is that up to $46 million of the projected $228 million could be paid for with Historic Tax Credits. Previous city Councils had the foresight to...
Port of Richmond and the Whirley Crane
A long overdue Port of Richmond Study is projecting $228 million of repairs just to make the existing infrastructure minimally safe. I want to commend Port Director Charles Gerard for getting this done. Funding, however, is a real challenge since the latest...
TOM BUTT E-FORUM CORRECTION Next Rotary Meeting Friday, October 24, 2025 at La Strada |
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at La Strada, 2215 Church Lane, San Pablo on Friday, October 24, 12:30pm. Lunch is $30 or a $10 donation without lunch to Richmond Rotary Club is appreciated....
TOM BUTT E-FORM: VISITORS WELCOME –Next Rotary Meeting Friday, October 24, 2025 | Calib
Next Club Meeting Our next meeting will take place at the Richmond Golf Club (address below) on Friday, October 24, 12:30pm. Cecilia Garibay Caliber Public Schools At Caliber Public Schools, we believe that every student deserves a...
Back to UCLA for a Day
I left UCLA 52 years ago with a Masters Degree in Architecture and Urban Design. First time back a couple of days ago, I was invited to receive a 2025 Bruin Excellence in Civic Engagement Award. Click here for video. ...