Government and Politics - The Roanoke Rambler

Feature

Hailed as Visionary, Roanoke Libraries Director Sheila Umberger Retires after 43 Years

Sheila Umberger, who began working for the city in 1982, leaves behind a transformative legacy.

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.

Racial justice

Roanoke Weighs Reparations Fund as Council Warms to Urban Renewal Apology

City Council members offered positive comments about an Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board plan to make sure action follows an apology.

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

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.

Racial justice

Urban Renewal Apology Moves Closer to City Council Decision

After three community meetings, Roanoke's Equity and Empowerment Advisory Board will take its recommendations to city council.

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.

Transportation

Leaders Celebrate, Evaluate Valley Metro at 50-year Mark, as New RFP Issued

Is the city about to hire a new manager for its bus system?

Politics

In Blue and Red Roanoke Valley Districts, Challengers Seek to Disrupt the Expected

Candidates in the Roanoke-related contests are competing amid the attention-seeking blitz of statewide races.

Education

School Funding Task Force To Shape Future As McGuire Joins Sanchez-Jones On Sidelines

City leaders heard about school needs as a group meets privately to discuss the future of local education funding.