CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Satyendra Huja, former mayor and longtime city planner, died on February 14, 2025, at the age of 83.

Huja was elected to Charlottesville City Council in 2008 and served two terms as mayor from 2012 to 2016. His work in local government included efforts to expand housing access and support community programs such as Meals on Wheels and the Mediation Center. During his tenure, he worked on projects such as the development of the Downtown Pedestrian Mall, revitalization of Court Square and the University Corner area. In addition to his public service, he was a lecturer in the University of Virginia’s School of Architecture for 40 years and authored six books.

Born in Kohat, India (now in Pakistan) in 1942, Huja immigrated to the United States in 1960 and earned degrees from Cornell University, Roberts Wesleyan College, and Michigan State University. He joined Charlottesville’s government in 1973 and held several positions, including Director of Planning, Director of Community Development, and Director of Strategic Planning.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, March 1, at 3:00 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church on Rugby Road. Donations in his memory may be made to Meals on Wheels or the Charlottesville Municipal Band.