Avula Rejects "Burn Bridges" Approach In VCU Health Tax Payment Negotiations

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jun 09, 2025

4.3

Share

Avula Rejects "Burn Bridges" Approach in VCU Health Tax Payment Negotiations

Richmond, VA – The ongoing tension between the City of Richmond and VCU Health System over millions of dollars in unpaid taxes took a new turn this week as City Manager Lincoln Saunders announced that he's pursuing a more conciliatory approach than previously suggested. This shift comes in direct response to concerns raised by Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and after City Councilmember Andreas Addison publicly criticized a strategy perceived as overly aggressive.

The "burn bridges" approach, as it was dubbed by some council members, involved a hardline stance on collecting the significant tax debt owed by VCU Health. This strategy included exploring legal avenues and potentially seizing assets, a move that many feared would severely damage the vital relationship between the city and its largest employer. VCU Health is a cornerstone of Richmond's economy, employing thousands and contributing significantly to the city's healthcare infrastructure.

Saunders Shifts Gears, Prioritizes Collaboration

City Manager Saunders, however, has indicated a decisive change of course. He stated publicly that he now prefers a collaborative approach, focused on negotiation and finding a mutually beneficial solution. This move was met with cautious optimism from both VCU Health and several City Council members. "We need to work with VCU Health, not against them," Saunders emphasized during a press conference on Tuesday. "A protracted legal battle would only hurt our city in the long run."

This shift aligns with the concerns raised by Mayor Stoney, who has consistently stressed the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with VCU Health. Councilmember Addison also voiced his support for the revised strategy, stating that "a collaborative, communicative approach is more likely to yield a positive outcome than a combative one."

Avula's Role in Shaping the Negotiation Strategy

While the specifics of the revised negotiation strategy remain undisclosed, sources close to the situation indicate that VCU Health CEO Dr. Michael Avula played a significant role in influencing the city’s change of heart. Dr. Avula's consistent emphasis on the importance of a strong partnership between VCU Health and the City of Richmond appears to have resonated with city leadership. He has reportedly stressed the need for a long-term solution that benefits both parties, rather than a short-term victory achieved through adversarial tactics.

What's Next for VCU Health and the City of Richmond?

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the success of this new, more collaborative approach. Both sides have expressed a commitment to finding a resolution that addresses the outstanding tax liability while safeguarding the vital partnership between VCU Health and the City of Richmond. Negotiations are expected to commence immediately, with a focus on open communication and finding common ground.

The outcome of these negotiations will have a significant impact on Richmond's economy and its healthcare landscape. The success of this collaborative approach will serve as a case study for how municipalities can navigate complex financial disputes with major employers while prioritizing mutually beneficial partnerships. Further updates will be provided as the situation unfolds. For more information on the ongoing dialogue, follow [link to City of Richmond website] and [link to VCU Health website].

Keywords: VCU Health, Richmond, Virginia, Taxes, Tax Payment, Lincoln Saunders, Levar Stoney, Andreas Addison, Michael Avula, Negotiation, Collaboration, Healthcare, Economy, City of Richmond, VCU Health System, Tax Debt.