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
Bay Trail Richmond New Year Report – From TRAC
Friends of the Bay Trail in Richmond, Attached for your enjoyment is the 27th Bay Trail Richmond New Year Report prepared by TRAC, the Trails for Richmond Action Committee. 2025 was a remarkable year. Construction began on 2.5 miles of Point...
Eduardo Martinez Antisemitic Controversy, Conspiracy Theories, the RPA
The Jewish Community Relations Committee (JCRC) reported today that more than 80 mayors, council members, trustees, and community leaders from across the Bay Area have disavowed Mayor Martinez and his antisemitic posts in a signed unity letter including more than 60...
ZOOM LINK & In-Person Invitation to ANNUAL CHRISTMAS EVE JAZZ SERVICE
If you are looking for a perfect Christmas Eve Service, you can attend either in person or virtually. Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. Richmond First United Methodist Church Sanctuary and via Zoom The Kurt Ribak Quartet,...
Betty Reid Soskin 1921-2025
Tributes are flowing in for Betty Reid Soskin who left us today at age 104. At Rosie the Riveter WWII Home Front National Historical Park, she became the iconic face of Richmond’s national park, and even the Park Service, itself. Glamour Magazine named her woman of...
Architects call on Shalom Baranes Associates, the new White House East
Architects call on Shalom Baranes Associates, the new White House East Wing ballroom designer, to decline Trump’s commission By Daniel Jonas Roche • December 11, 2025 • Architecture, East, News, Professional Practice The...
OM BUTT E-FORUM: Rotary Auction — Do Not Miss — Only 3 Days Away!
This really fun event with great auction items funds the Richmond Rotary community projects for the entire year. Hope to see you there! https://richmondcarotary.org/holiday-auction/ Want to receive TOM BUTT E-FORUM delivered to your...