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🌱 Patch AM: What will Roanoke do with its $2.5 million housing boost?

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Hi there, Roanoke! We've got your morning read ready! Read on to stay connected. ☕️️

In today's newsletter:

  • What will Roanoke do with its $2.5 million housing boost?
  • How does Roanoke stack up in Virginia’s housing zoning debate?
  • Thinking about policing or forensics? See how Virginia Western trains locals.

Also on today's calendar: KIDZ BOP LIVE: The Concert Movie - Roanoke and 4 more events.

Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: How many sheep does it take to make a sweater? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Roanokefor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Saturday: Increasing amounts of sun, with a high of 62 and low of 37 degrees.
  • Sunday: Cooler with low clouds, temps: high: 49, low: 43.
  • Monday: A couple of showers, with a high of 54 and low of 22 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Gov. Youngkin announces millions in funding for Workforce Housing Investment Program (wsls.com) — Roanoke is set to receive $2.5 million from Virginia’s Workforce Housing Investment Program to help create new middle-income housing units. The funding, part of more than $15 million statewide, aims to expand affordable options so local workers can live closer to where they work and support a stronger regional economy.
   

2. Virginia needs more housing, but what kind and where? (cardinalnews.org) — Roanoke stands out in a new statewide zoning report as one of Virginia’s most welcoming cities for multifamily housing and smaller lot sizes, which can help keep homes more affordable. The analysis contrasts Roanoke’s approach with stricter suburban rules, including nearby Botetourt County, and fuels debate over whether the state should push localities to allow more dense housing types.
   

3. Hometown Jobs: Criminal Justice Program at Virginia Western Community College (wdbj7.com) — Roanoke-area students interested in criminal justice can train locally through Virginia Western Community College’s hands-on program, which partners closely with Roanoke, Roanoke County, and Salem police. Instructors and recruiters stress community policing, internships, and real-world experience to prepare future officers, probation workers, and forensic professionals for hometown careers.
   

4. Virginia homebuyers get relief as interest rates drop and assistance programs stack up (wdbj7.com) — Roanoke-area homebuyers, especially first-timers, are seeing a rare window of opportunity as mortgage rates ease and sellers grow more willing to cover closing costs. Local realtors describe how “stacking” those concessions with Virginia Housing and SERCAP assistance programs can significantly lower upfront expenses and interest rates for eligible buyers.
   

5. Local fire marshal talks holiday heating safety reminders (wfxrtv.com) — Cold weather is moving back into the Roanoke area, and the Bedford County fire marshal is urging residents to heat their homes safely as they turn up the warmth. He stresses cleaning fireplaces, keeping combustibles three feet from heaters, avoiding gas or kerosene devices indoors, and never leaving cooking unattended during busy holiday gatherings or trips out of town.
   

📸 Around Roanoke

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Please share & repost to help reunite this stray cat!
    FOUND on December 25, 2025 in Roanoke, VA 24012 near 20th St Sharing for a neighbor. For the latest information or to contact the finder, view this… (Nextdoor Hollins Rd)
  • Any recommendations for a dentist who is good with kids?
    My 13-year-old has anxiety about dental visits, and her stress levels skyrocket no matter what needs to be done. Appreciate any suggestions in… (Nextdoor Kenwood)
  • Sam's Club posted a job opening for Merchandise and Stocking Associate in Roanoke. Apply here.
  • Walmart posted a job opening for Cart Attendant in Roanoke. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Roanoke here.

Ok Roanoke! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I have no idea. I didn’t even know sheep could knit.
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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