Roanoke Adds City Jobs, UVA Reaches DOJ Deal, and GOP Aims to Regain Momentum — Oct 23 | WFIR News Express

Top stories across the Roanoke Valley and Virginia for Thursday, October 23rd, 2025:⚖️ Lynchburg Conviction: A 50-year-old man found guilty of raping and assaulting a woman with an intellectual disability now faces up to life in prison.🗳 GOP Campaign Push: The Republican National Committee pledges more resources to help Winsome Earle-Sears close the gap in the governor’s race, while former radio host John Reid gains ground in his bid for Lt. Governor.🤝 Bipartisan Support: Democratic State Senator Ghazala Hashmi earns endorsements from two former Virginia Republicans.🏛 Roanoke City Hall Expansion: Council approves four new positions—including a transit director and sustainability manager—costing over half a million dollars.🎓 UVA & DOJ Reach Agreement: The university agrees to pause civil rights investigations tied to admissions and DEI programs while maintaining academic freedom.🚒 Boones Mill Funding Feud: Dispute continues over the design and price of a replacement fire tanker truck.🎨 Art at the Taubman: “Making American Artists” opens this weekend, showcasing 200 years of creativity from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.🏫 Attendance Initiative: Giles County Schools launch a new plan to curb chronic absenteeism.🍎 Educator of the Year: Katrina Hill of Community School in Roanoke earns national recognition for her work with middle school students.⚡ Lower Power Bills Ahead: Appalachian Power announces a 24% rate cut expected to save Virginia customers about $10 per month.🅿️ Roanoke Parking Study: The city invites public input on a $127,000 review of downtown and Rivers Edge parking.