Local government

Chesapeake history, Suffolk’s growth and a Newport News business owner crafting state rules: Hampton Roads through the news in the past year.

Virginia Beach plans to convert about eight acres back into tidal wetlands to earn mitigation credits. The city says without those, they can’t move forward with other projects like those under the Flood Protection Program.

The plan has been the topic of public contention. One civic league leader plans to get the attorney general involved.

The city last year switched to LED holiday lights on 17 buildings and parking garages.

State lawmakers this week heard a long-awaited report about the impact of data centers. Virginia has become a global hub for the industry.

The $20 million Pay-For-Outcomes program, meant to help clean up the Chesapeake Bay, was directed by the General Assembly this year.

Norfolk’s RISE Resilience Innovations last year funded four startups working on ways to improve and transform flood insurance, using Norfolk as a testing ground.

The nearly $3 million in state funding comes through the Virginia Land Conservation Foundation.

Familial connections, unique landscape and a historical story drew Martin to apply for the position held only by Glenn Oder thus far.

Residents and councilmembers can’t agree on a number of proposed changes in Suffolk’s comprehensive plan, most tied to the city’s rapid growth.