Community Pulse
What residents are talking about in Blacksburg public meetings, ranked by community engagement.
3 topics
Flock ALPR cameras
Election interference
Sewer Backup Claims and Municipal Liability
In the News
12 articlesRecent coverage of Blacksburg from local and regional media.
Firefighter pay-per-call, personal tax reductions being used in region to entice volunteers
Volunteers in Botetourt County receive a stipend based on the number of calls they answer and their level of training. This has encouraged volunteers to stay active and pursue additional certifications, according to the fire department. Courtesy of Z...
Oct 30, 2026The Local is open, reviving the old Cook’s Cleaners building in downtown Blacksburg. We took a look inside.
Wall space at The Local displays products from micro-businesses. Photo by Erick Solorzano. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/cardinalnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/DSC06207-scaled.jpg?fit=780%2C439&ssl=1" /> Five businesses are open, along w...
Oct 28, 2026Penalty for a noncompliant Airbnb just got cheaper in Blacksburg
The front of a Blacksburg home registered as a short-term rental. Photo by Erick Solorzano. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/cardinalnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/IMG_6046-scaled.jpeg?fit=780%2C439&ssl=1" /> The town lowered the fine and ch...
Oct 19, 2026Secrecy pact ends for project
WOOD HAVEN DATA CENTER
Oct 8, 2026Blacksburg Town Council Candidate Forum
Blacksburg Town Council Candidate Forum League of Women Voters
Oct 8, 2026Commentary: Fotheringay plan would destroy Elliston's rural identity
The Blue Ridge Land Conservancy has always supported the right of private property owners to do what they want with their land, within what the zoning and economic realities will allow. That’s been the same whether we’re talking about Evans…
Oct 4, 2026Volunteer firefighter numbers have declined across the U.S. In Blacksburg, college students help fill the ranks.
Blacksburg volunteer firefighter Jacob Stone lifts a fire hose as part of the 2026 Combat Challenge course. Photo by Erick Solorzano. " data-large-file="https://i0.wp.com/cardinalnews.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/DSC05933-scaled.jpg?fit=780%2C439&...
Sep 30, 2026Blacksburg Town Council
BLACKSBURG — This fall, Blacksburg voters will elect two candidates to fill two vacant seats on the Town Council.
Sep 28, 2026Wood Haven land to be developed for a data center, regional group says
The Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority announced more details about the proposed data center near the I-81/I-581 interchange.
Sep 22, 20262026 Voter Guide: Blacksburg Town Council
The two candidates for Blacksburg Town Council explain their views on the town's growth, Flock cameras, data centers and more.
Sep 18, 2026The Short List: Aug. 3
It's primary election time. Voters head to the polls Tuesday to select the candidates they want to see on the ballot for the general election in November.
Jul 31, 2026Montgomery County approves tax break for volunteer fire and rescue personnel
Montgomery County approved a reduced vehicle tax rate for volunteer fire and rescue personnel while advancing broader discussions on emergency services needs.
Jul 28, 2026