Transparency News, 2/19/21

The coronavirus pandemic is again upending the daily routines of the tradition-bound Virginia General Assembly. The body that traces its lineage back more than four centuries to 1619 has been working under extraordinary circumstances, legislating to a substantial degree by video conference. The situation has led to persistent technical difficulties, an uncharacteristically profane hot mic situation and more serious complaints from lawmakers and advocates alike. Critics say legislating over Zoom has limited transparency, stifled public participation and diluted the democratic process. “If we were to do this year in and year out, I would think it was terrible. I mean, given our situation, I think it’s OK,” said Megan Rhyne, executive director of the Virginia Coalition for Open Government.
The Washington Post

Virginia Tech provided The Roanoke Times with the salary figures for the team’s 2021 coaching staff on Tuesday. The Hokies recently finalized the staff with the addition of co-defensive line coach and defensive recruiting coordinator J.C. Price replace Darryl Tapp. The team previously promoted Jack Tyler to linebackers coach for Tracy Claeys, who retired after a one-year stint in Blacksburg. The Roanoke Times has requested information about football coaches taking pay cuts in 2020, but the school has declined to provide any details in response to multiple FOIA requests.
The Roanoke Times

Waynesboro City Manager Mike Hamp summed up City Council’s second budget work session with one word before if even began — tension. Although Hamp’s opening remarks were cut short because of technical difficulties during the virtual meeting, Deputy City Manager Jim Shaw reviewed council’s priorities as identified during its annual retreat. 
The News Virginian