Good morning, this is Virginia Beach Local Pulse for Thursday, June 12, 2025.
We wake up today with a mix of sunshine and clouds along the Oceanfront, with temperatures hovering in the mid-seventies. A gentle sea breeze will roll in by the afternoon, keeping things comfortable for anyone heading toward the boardwalk or planning outdoor activities at Mount Trashmore. Light showers are possible late this evening, but most of our day looks great for summer fun.
Let’s begin with breaking news that’s hitting our community hard. In Norfolk, investigators have confirmed the tragic discovery of missing Navy sailor Angelina Resendiz’s remains in the woods just west of the naval station. Authorities say another sailor is now in pretrial confinement as the investigation continues. It’s a somber moment for our military community, and our thoughts are with her family and shipmates.
Back in city government, the Virginia Beach City Council officially signed off on the 2026 city budget, totaling about $2.8 billion. That means, starting this July, we’ll see an increase in the meals tax for local restaurants and a bump in stormwater fees on our utility bills. The city says new revenue will back major projects, including courthouse updates and a long-awaited law enforcement training academy. Some residents are voicing concern about the elimination of five library jobs, which could impact services at several branches, including the one on Virginia Beach Boulevard.
On the jobs and business front, local employers are gearing up for summer, with hospitality and tourism postings on the rise. Coastal Edge, the surf shop on Atlantic Avenue, continues to thrive, drawing large crowds with their recent summer contest giveaway. Meanwhile, we’re seeing a handful of new small businesses opening up along Shore Drive and in Town Center, filling vacant storefronts and bringing fresh energy to the area.
In real estate, home prices across Virginia Beach have leveled off compared to earlier this year. The average home list price sits just above four hundred thousand dollars, and inventory is rising, giving buyers a bit more breathing room.
For cultural highlights, Ken Wright, a renowned abstract artist from right here in Virginia Beach, served as a judge for last night’s exhibition at the Sandler Center, showcasing local talent and awarding cash prizes. Coming up this weekend, don’t miss the Neptune Park live music series on the boardwalk, or the farmer’s market Saturday morning at Princess Anne Road for fresh produce and crafts.
Turning to sports, we’re proud to note that Noah Langford, a Virginia Beach native, has earned All-American status at Howard University in track and field this week—a tremendous achievement for our local schools and families.
On the public safety front, police report several minor thefts and one break-in overnight near Lynnhaven Parkway. No injuries, but officers urge us to lock cars and report suspicious activity as summer visitors bring more foot traffic. City leaders are also working on new tree mitigation plans along General Booth Boulevard, aiming to preserve our green spaces as development continues.
On a positive note, we close today with a smile: local elementary school kids showed true community spirit by organizing a beach cleanup at First Landing State Park, collecting bags of trash and earning recognition from city officials.
This has been Virginia Beach Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
