WHRO Reports (Norfolk, successor to WHRV HearSay)

High housing costs are significantly impacting senior adults, with many spending more than the recommended amount on rent. Local leaders are exploring the idea of utilizing spare bedrooms in homes to provide affordable housing solutions for seniors, inspired by a successful program in Oregon. This approach aims to create mutually beneficial arrangements that offer companionship and financial relief for both homeowners and renters.

James City County is conducting a groundbreaking study on using drones to deliver automated defibrillators to heart attack victims. The initiative, led by Dr. Joseph Ornato, aims to improve survival rates, with drones reportedly reaching emergency scenes six minutes faster than traditional vehicles. Funded by the American Heart Association, this project could potentially save tens of thousands of lives if expanded nationally.

A contract dispute between Centera Health and Anthem could impact nearly 380,000 Anthem members in Virginia. Centera is requesting a 6% increase in reimbursement rates, while Anthem has proposed only a 1% increase, potentially leading to higher costs for patients if no agreement is reached.

The Norfolk City Council has implemented new rules limiting public comments deemed repetitive, which has sparked pushback from residents who feel their voices are being silenced. Critics, including resident Henry Reid, argue that this practice obstructs their ability to communicate directly with elected officials, particularly regarding contentious issues like surveillance cameras. Mayor Kenny Alexander defends the measure as a way to ensure that public comment remains manageable and allows for a variety of topics to be addressed.

The Virginia Beach City Council has decided to sell the Virginia Beach National Golf Club property, encompassing 340 acres, to the Dragus companies. The deal includes plans to restore the golf course while also constructing 659 housing units, which has sparked frustration among citizens who prefer the course to remain public. City officials argue the sale will save taxpayers millions in maintenance costs, with some council members advocating for affordable housing assurances.

The cost of replacing Williamsburg's downtown library has risen significantly, now expected to exceed $30 million, potentially surpassing $31 million with optional features. Factors contributing to the increase include rising material and labor costs, despite efforts to reduce expenses through design changes. The city is exploring funding options, including a capital campaign and reallocating funds from another project, with a council vote anticipated by mid-September.

The Trump administration is considering leasing ocean tracts off Virginia's eastern shore for mineral mining, prompting local communities to voice their opposition. Residents and conservationists argue that seabed mining could disrupt marine ecosystems and undermine decades of conservation efforts. Local counties have formally opposed the proposal, emphasizing the cultural and environmental significance of the area.

A proposal to convert a brewery site into apartment buildings in Virginia Beach is set for a City Council vote. The plan includes two buildings with 250 units and the preservation of a historic farmhouse, but it has met resistance from local residents concerned about the impact on their community.