A group of student auditors asked a dozen localities for public information. The responses clarify where local government deserves credit for transparency and where it falls short of its responsibilities as keepers of the people’s information, as well as how local governments understand and execute their responsibilities under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act.
Susan Cameron
Susan Cameron is a reporter for Cardinal News. She has been a newspaper journalist in Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee for nearly 40 years. She is based in Bristol. Reach her at susan@cardinalnews.org or 276-791-5928.
Posted inEconomy
Creeper Trail has $61 million annual impact on 4 Southwest Virginia counties, new study finds
Work on the study began just days before Hurricane Helene hit the region and decimated half the trail. Researchers at Virginia Tech recommend that additional survey work be done after the trail fully reopens.
Posted inLocal
Spradlin named new Bristol city manager
Tamrya Spradlin, the former assistant city manager, has been serving in an interim role since the departure of longtime City Manager Randy Eads.
Posted inLocal
Washington County supervisors to consider support for foster care project
The Isaiah 117 House, which is under construction between Bristol and Abingdon, would help children who are waiting for foster care placement.
Posted inSports
Bristol’s decision to scrap plan for new baseball stadium leaves minor league team’s future uncertain
The stadium was to be used by the minor league Bristol State Liners and the Virginia High School baseball team. But city leaders said Bristol can no longer afford the financial commitment.
Posted inLocal
Bristol council names nonprofit executive to vacant seat
The vote to appoint Alex Littleton came after a nearly four-hour meeting in closed session Tuesday night.
Posted inLocal
Bristol City Council expected to choose new member Tuesday
The person chosen will replace former member Becky Nave, who resigned in January due to the demands of a new job.
Posted inEconomy
With hands-on learning and on-site child care, workforce hub aims to boost Southwest’s economy
EO opened the Abingdon hub in hopes of helping to solve two of the main problems that hinder growth in the region: a shortage of available workers for existing jobs, and a lack of child care options.
Posted inLocal
VDOT to hold public meeting Tuesday about Abingdon traffic study
The project will study congestion and safety issues on Cummings Street in Abingdon.
Posted inHealth Care
Dickenson County drug treatment center gets conditional license to operate from the state
Wildwood Recovery Center is now expected to open in the second half of 2026.