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Here’s a recap of the top stories on the morning of Friday, December 10, 2021:
This week, the Supreme Court of Virginia shared drafts of what state and congressional voting districts could look like for a decade in the commonwealth. As Patrick Larsen reports, the proposals draw some current legislators out of their districts. Virtual public hearings on the maps will be held on December 15th and 17th. Virginia residents can sign up to comment virtually, or send written comments to the court by emailing [email protected].
Under the last state budget proposed by Governor Ralph Northam, Virginia’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities are set to receive nearly 300 million dollars in additional funding. Javaune Adams-Gaston, Norfolk State University’s president, says H-B-C-Us are historically underfunded. Norfolk State University would get the largest chunk of money from Northam’s budget, about 164 million dollars. It will go to books, childcare and transportation for students. Virginia State University will receive the second-most amount of funding from the proposal.
Governor-elect Glenn Youngkin says he wants Virginia out of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative. The move could slow down the statewide response to climate change and sea level rise. Jonah Grinkewitz, from our partner station WHRO, has more.
A drop in real estate taxes could be on the horizon for Chesterfield residents. The announcement was made at the State of the County Address this week. According to the Richmond Times Dispatch, county Administrator Joe Casey is proposing that the rate goes down from 95 cents to 93 cents next year, because there was an increase in home sale prices this year. Casey has also highlighted a need to reduce future tax rates to make the county a more affordable place to live and work. The Board of Supervisors is expected to vote on the proposal next week.
Every town and city has “that street,” known for its diversity and vibrance. As VPM News Intern Adiah Gholston reports, a state grant aims to revitalize these important parts of the community.
Visitors to Shenandoah National Park will soon have to pay more for some activities. The cost of accessing the park will remain the same, but prices will go up for camping and hiking, according to CBS19. Campground fees will increase to $30 per night, while group campsite fees will rise to $75. New fees will also be established for backcountry camping and hiking the Old Rag trail. Officials say the additional money from the fees will be used to improve facilities within the park. The camp site fees will take effect on December 16th. The other changes will be implemented by 2023.
