Todd Jackson - The Roanoke Rambler

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.

Business

Roanoke Strip Club Can Reopen Without Zoning Board Action, Building Permit Issued

A $50,000 renovation is ongoing as a plan to reopen a club on Franklin Road progresses, according to city records.

Business

Will Airport Expansion Fly? Land Sale Remains a Question as $7 million Study Sought

The price of the property - part of the former Countryside Golf Course - is a component of the talks, a city official said.

Politics

Beth Macy Enters Race for Congress Blasting Ben Cline and Saying Enough Is Enough

Democratic candidates are lining up to get a chance to run against incumbent Republican Ben Cline.

Education

Roanoke School Funding Percentage to Drop If Draft Policy Is Approved by Council

A task force is meeting as a debate revolves around a consultant's report and how much money the school system deserves.

City Hall

'Some Tough Decisions' Ahead as Consultant Gives Reality Check on Roanoke Finances

The city paid PFM Group to take an independent look at what the next five years may bring.

Business

Substance Abuse Treatment Clinic at Valley View Gets a No From Roanoke Commission

The opposition included the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Politics

Hash Wins Roanoke Sheriff Race Handily, Rasoul and McNamara Reelected to State House

After an eventful race with Republican James Creasy, Sheriff Antonio Hash said his campaign didn't need to "sling mud."

Politics

Concerns Raised About Creasy Address, Hash-led Operations as Roanoke Sheriff Race Closes

Voters will elect incumbent Sheriff Antonio Hash, a Democrat, or Republican James Creasy next week.