Vithoulkas gives his state of the county address virtually

Henrico County Manager John A. Vithoulkas is presenting his 2020 state of the county address in a series of videos highlighting the county’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic as well as scores of accomplishments and initiatives in such areas as economic development, services and infrastructure, sports tourism and public-private partnerships.

The State of the County address went live Dec. 4 online; Vithoulkas typically gives it in person but couldn’t this year because of COVID-19. The theme of the address – “Strengthening Henrico’s Connections” – reflects of Henrico’s efforts to address the many challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Establishing and enhancing our connections with the community is an integral part of what we do in Henrico County,” Vithoulkas said. “COVID-19 has served as a stark reminder of the importance of having healthy connections. As a local government focused on customer service, we must always understand and be aligned with the needs of our community and be able to meet them in an efficient and fiscally sound way.”

In 12 produced videos, Vithoulkas and other officials discuss details and insight into a variety of county efforts relating to public-private partnerships; public health; schools and outreach; budget; public safety; community needs; services and infrastructure; sports tourism; development; economic development; and GreenCity, a proposed mixed-use development announced this week that would include a 17,000-seat arena.

“We have taken deliberate steps to ensure that development and economic development can continue without missing a beat,” he said. “We also have forged exciting new partnerships that will ensure our county’s exceptional quality of life and favorable business climate continue for years to come.”