Essex County Local Composite Index Set to Increase
Essex County officials say the Local Composite Index will rise this year, driven largely by last year’s real estate reassessment. The increase could affect school funding formulas and county budgets, potentially tightening finances during an already challenging budget season. Officials say residents and policymakers should prepare for adjustments in local revenue and spending priorities as […]
Read MoreTappahannock Planning Commission Delays Rezoning Vote
The Tappahannock Planning Commission has postponed a vote on rezoning a half-acre parcel at 524 Daingerfield Street. Cheryl and Warren Evans requested changing the property from CG-2 General Commercial to R-3 Town Residential. Commission members cited the need for additional information to address zoning classification concerns. The vote has been rescheduled for February, giving officials […]
Read MoreVirginia Lawmakers Move to Ban Assault Weapons and High Capacity Magazines
A bill to ban the sale of so-called “assault weapons” and high-capacity magazines is back in the Virginia General Assembly after being vetoed twice by outgoing Governor Glenn Youngkin. Democrats have now reintroduced the legislation ahead of Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger’s inauguration this Saturday. The measure would make selling, importing, or transferring what some describe as […]
Read MoreVirginia Expands Drought Warnings as Conditions Worsen
The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality has issued drought warnings for 22 counties and 13 cities. DEQ also expanded drought watch advisories statewide, leaving just 12 counties and seven cities without any alert. Officials cite ongoing precipitation deficits that have lowered streamflow, groundwater, and soil moisture in many regions. Residents are urged to conserve water […]
Read MoreVirginia Officials Target Lower Drug Prices in 2026 Legislative Session
Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger is pushing for cost-saving health measures as Virginia’s 2026 General Assembly session begins. The Prescription Drug Affordability Board bill, if passed, would negotiate lower prices for commonly used medications. Pharmacy Benefit Managers and prescription middlemen are reportedly highlighted in Spanberger’s agenda. Lawmakers are seeking bipartisan support ahead of the session, which starts […]
Read MoreVirginia Beach Angler Hooks 835 Pound Bluefin Tuna Expected to Break State Record
Virginia Beach resident Mike Rogerson landed an 835.8-pound bluefin tuna last Saturday aboard the charter boat High Hopes. The catch, reeled in after a 90-minute battle off the Smith Island Flats, is expected to surpass the current state record by more than 130 pounds once certified by the Virginia Marine Resources Commission. The 23 year […]
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