The Richmond Common Council voted 7-to-2 Monday night to approve a forgivable loan financing structure for infrastructure at the planned Smith Hill housing development.

The move unlocks a 4.3-million-dollar READI 2.0 state grant. The vote followed heated debate. Some council members voiced frustration over shifting plans and the potential inclusion of rental townhomes. But representatives from Reid Health and the Wayne County Chamber urged approval, warning that Richmond desperately needs modern market-rate housing to recruit and retain workers—and that stalling would cost the community millions in state funding.