What are zoning and subdivision ordinances? – Ever wonder what they are, how they work, and what’s in each section? Join Planning staff as they walk you through the County’s newest video series to teach you the ins and outs of the ordinances, how they influence what our community looks like, and how they’re used to help implement the 2009 Comprehensive Plan. Then plan to attend a Planning Commission Forum on the update process on August 24 or September 1. More information is available online.

Good news for homeowners with flood insurance – In recognition of floodplain management activities implemented by the County, homeowners covered by standard flood insurance policies now qualify for a 10 percent discount in their premiums. Standard policies include coverage for properties located within the FEMA floodplain. Homeowners covered by preferred risk policies that cover property outside of the FEMA floodplain receive a five percent discount.

The discounts will automatically be applied to policies at renewal. For more information, visit the website.

Move over, it’s the law – Virginia law states that when approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing, blinking or alternating blue, red or amber lights, you must proceed with caution and, if reasonable and safe, change lanes away from the stationary vehicle. If changing lanes would be unreasonable or unsafe, you must proceed with due caution and maintain a safe speed for highway conditions.

A single violation is punishable as a traffic infraction. Subsequent violations may be punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor. For more information, visit VDOT’s website.

When in doubt, throw it out – Many County households lost power during a strong thunderstorm earlier this month. With more storms on the radar and the height of hurricane season around the corner, it is a good idea to refresh your knowledge on food safety without electricity.

Visit the USDA’s website to learn what needs to be tossed and what can be saved.

Make plans with Destination Recreation – The Fall 2010 Parks and Recreation Destination Recreation Brochure will be available Wednesday,
August 18! Look for it online.

The brochure details classes, events and activities occurring through December. The brochure is available exclusively online, supporting the County’s ongoing efforts to reduce paper use and printing and distribution costs.

Speaking of recreation – Want to know what’s available for you and your family at the Williamsburg/James City Community Center? Check out the video produced by the kids at the County’s TV Camp!

JCC TV shows are available on demand, on the County’s YouTube channel or on Cox Cable Channel 48. Let us know what you think!

Connect with James City County! Visit us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

Are you on the e-FYI mailing list? Send an e-mail to pubinfo@james-city.va.us.