Todd Jackson - The Roanoke Rambler

Politics

Roanoke Council Race Ramps Up with Five More Candidates

The race for three council seats includes seven candidates as of Tuesday, including five Democrats.

Development

Blue Ridge Land Conservancy in Talks to Buy Most of Evans Spring — But Needs City Action

The conservancy is partnering with a national group to potentially find a solution to appease all involved.

Arts

New Model for Cash-Strapped Jefferson Center Pursued Through Management Firm Idea

“I am very encouraged and very hopeful that there is a path forward,” the facility's board director said.

Policing

Audit Finds Police Department Grant Overspent, Youths Treated Questionably, Contract Not Bid According to Policies

"People didn't do their jobs -- that's the bottom line," City Councilwoman Evelyn Powers said.

City Hall

Roanoke Planning Director Exits As One-Third of Department's Jobs Remain Vacant

Jillian Papa is the latest in a string of managers to leave City Hall.

City Hall

Money on the Mind: Roanoke's Finances Generate Debate Amid Meals Tax, Debt Decisions

The city needs revenue -- and the city council may leave a tax in place past its sunset to do that.

History

History Takes a Hit: Wrecking Ball Swings as Advocates Try to Stave Off More Demolition

"Preservation shouldn't depend on who shows up at the last minute," said a local advocate.

Politics

Kathy Cohen Enters Roanoke Council Race, Criticizes Recent School Funding Cut

Cohen will run as an independent in a race that's expected to have a full field.

City Hall

Roanoke Gets $75,000 From Casino Developer, What It's For Remains Out of Public Eye

Of an entertainment district with a possible casino at the Berglund Center, Mayor Joe Cobb wrote Tuesday that "saying no doesn't get us anywhere."

Development

With State Action on Casino Unlikely, Roanoke Focus Group Hears Berglund Needs Help

A new group is tasked with helping the city decide what to do with the civic center.

City Hall

Roanoke's AI-Driven Parking Offers Easy Access, City Says — But Not All Agree

The city contracted with the largest private parking firm in the country to provide the latest AI-driven technology.

Education

Roanoke School District Returns $20.5 Million, Council Weighs Using Portion for Other Needs

The city council is now a about a year into using a private attorney's advice. The schools recently asked for $8.3 million for high school trailers and council agreed on $4.3 million.

City Hall

Roanoke Is Paying Richmond Lobbying Firm $6,000 Monthly To Pursue Casino Deal

The city will need to beat long odds at the moment to get a casino license.

City Hall

Turnover Tension Grips Roanoke City Hall As Two Key Figures Depart

City Attorney Tim Spencer is retiring March 1 and Finance Director Margaret Lindsey’s last day was Monday.

Politics

As Rasoul Explores Run For Congress, Macy Responds That She's Not a 'Career Politician'

An expected redistricting referendum next year could bring new opportunities and alter the status quo.

Housing

Roanoke Zoning Debate Isn't Over — and Could Seep into 2026 Council Race

A zoning overhaul that prompted litigation remains an issue that will extend into 2026.

Legal

Roanoke Federal Courthouse Was Renamed for Civil Rights Leader Reuben Lawson. Then His Name Disappeared.

When Lawson's name will be reinstalled is unclear as a project that faces complications is dealt with by the GSA.

Politics

Council Approves Wish List With a Dissent as Casino Plan Proceeds on a 'Different Path'

Councilman Nick Hagen voted against the city and schools state legislative requests as he joins Terry McGuire opposing a casino.