Local Government, Civic Affairs and Education
photo by Ian Price
A protest today against a rate increase request from Roanoke Gas Company of almost 11 percent. At the Roanoke City main library those opposing the hike urged the State Corporation Commission to reject that proposal. Preserve Salem and several other organizers say Roanoke Gas Company already hiked rates without permission 10.6 percent in January, to cover investment costs. Before an SCC hearing in August those who oppose – or support – the rate increase can offer their opinion online. One of the speakers was Roanoke attorney John Fishwick, who tied the rate increase request to RGC’s 46 million dollar investment in the Mountain Valley Pipeline project:
A unique way to raise money for the Prevention Council of Roanoke County’s efforts to combat substance abuse: on Sunday wedding dresses – many that have been stored for decades in a warehouse – will be sold “as is” during an event at Black Dog Salvage’s “Stone House” from 2 to 6-pm. Melissa Palmer with Chocolate Paper is one of the organizers: The $5 dollar on Sunday comes with wedding cake samples and yes, chocolate. You can watch Melissa Palmer open one of those storage boxes featuring a vintage wedding dress that will be for sale by visiting the WFIR News Facebook page.
Stan Seymour
A third candidate has entered the race to represent Cave Spring on the Roanoke County Board of Supervisors. Stan Seymour joins Republican Paul Mahoney, and Democrat Brian Powell in vying for the seat. Seymour owns local Bojangle’s franchises. He’s now involved in a zoning dispute with his residential neighbor – the Wildlife Center of Southwest Virginia – and with Roanoke County. Seymour, who will run as an independent in November, says he wants to be an advocate for responsive and transparent local government. He also ran as an independent unsuccessfully 8 years ago.