Author: operations@endocollab.com

The U.S. House of Representatives will vote this week on a bill impacting Virginia’s ability to set clean vehicle emissions standards. The bill targets California standards requiring 100 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, which Virginia and 16 other states have adopted. Supporters of the standards say they encourage electric vehicles, saving consumers money and reducing pollution, while opponents claim they restrict consumer choice. A Government Accountability Office report suggests Congress may not have the authority to repeal the standards. The U.S. Senate is also considering similar legislation.

Busch Gardens Williamsburg recently debuted new signs detailing park mileage and inclines and announced the Sip, Savor, and Sprint 5K race for May 4 to highlight fitness opportunities for guests.

U.S. Rep. Rob Wittman was featured in a local “Ten Questions with” series in the Historic Triangle. He represents Virginia’s 1st District, which includes the Historic Triangle. Rep. Wittman lives full-time in his district and commutes to Washington D.C. He regularly meets with constituents across the district, including in the Historic Triangle where he has an office in Yorktown and visits Williamsburg. He defines success as enabling others to succeed. His most successful accomplishment in Congress is the bipartisan America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act, which benefits the Chesapeake Bay. Personally, he is most proud of his family. He enjoys home renovation projects for relaxation. Rep. Wittman intends to continue serving the people of his district.

James City County’s Fort Magruder Hotel at 6945 Pocahontas Trail may be converted into 126 apartments, with 40 percent designated as affordable housing, under a proposal by New Jersey-based Conserve Holdings. The plan also includes 32,000 square feet of commercial space in the existing conference center. The county planning commission recommended approval on April 2, and the Board of Supervisors will consider the rezoning application on May 13. The developer aims to revitalize the underutilized property and provide needed housing, particularly affordable units for local workers, although the county’s Housing Administrator expressed concern that some affordable units are tiered for incomes up to 120% of the area median income, potentially not reaching the lowest-wage workers. A historical feature, Redoubt 3 from the Civil War Battle of Williamsburg, located in the hotel courtyard, is planned to be preserved.

A property firm proposes converting the Fort Magruder Hotel in James City County into 126 apartments, including 52 affordable units. Conserve Holdings seeks a rezoning for the property at 6945 Pocahontas Trail to allow the project. The plan includes keeping 32,000 square feet for commercial use and preserving a Civil War-era redoubt on site. The county planning commission unanimously recommended approval of the rezoning on April 2. The James City County Board of Supervisors is scheduled to consider the application at its May 13 meeting. A county housing official expressed concern that targeting some affordable units for those earning 120% of the area median income might limit availability for lower-wage workers. The county is holding a community housing forum on April 30.

Strangeways Brewing in Williamsburg will host an adult book fair on May 31 from noon to 5 p.m., aiming to evoke childhood nostalgia with books, craft beer, local authors, and vintage vendors.

Virginia’s $2.3 billion park economy faces a staffing crisis due to National Park Service funding and job cuts. Hundreds of probationary staff were fired nationwide, including about 63 in Virginia parks, impacting services at popular destinations like Shenandoah National Park. Visitors may see reduced ranger programs, shorter operating hours, longer wait times, and decreased maintenance. Park advocates warn the cuts could harm Virginia’s significant tourism industry and park resources, despite high visitation. The NPS states the cuts are part of efforts toward fiscal responsibility and efficiency under President Trump’s administration.

The Williamsburg Daughters of the American Revolution chapter celebrated its 100th anniversary with a ceremonial tea party on April 22. Formed by twelve local women on March 26, 1925, the chapter was chartered in 1927. The event highlighted the chapter’s long history and commitment to historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Williamsburg Mayor Doug Pons declared April 22 as Williamsburg Daughters of the Revolution Day. The chapter is seeking new members.

The Williamsburg Women’s Chorus will present their spring concert, “Our Voice: Music of Our Time,” featuring works by six modern composers, on Tuesday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church, 215 Richmond Road. Suggested donation is $15 for adults and $10 for students.

Virginia Tax reminds residents that the individual income tax filing and payment deadline is Thursday, May 1. The agency recommends filing electronically for faster refunds, processed in about four weeks compared to eight weeks for mailed returns. No penalties or interest are applied if filing and full payment are made by the May 1 deadline. An automatic six-month filing extension is available, but taxes must be paid by the original deadline to avoid additional penalties and interest. Information, free online filing options for qualified individuals, and various payment methods are available on the Virginia Tax website. Tax relief is offered for taxpayers affected by Hurricane Helene or the February 2025 flooding and winter storms in Southwest Virginia. Taxpayers can track returns or refunds using online accounts or the Where’s My Refund application on the Virginia Tax website.