Observer Weekly

Observer Weekly January 8, 2026 Jefferson County, WV news & events The Governor and state legislators are heading to Charleston next week to open the 2026 legislative session. The House of Delegates wants to talk about investing for job creation and the Governor wants to talk about tax cuts. Nobody wants to talk about funding cuts. We’ll be following these conversations over the next two months, so stay tuned. In the meantime, stay healthy! — Steve Pearson If you value local journalism,...

Observer Weekly January 1, 2026 Jefferson County, WV news & events For our first story of the year, we take a look at the key issues likely to dominate the County Commission’s discussions as it works on next year’s budget. We’ve also been tracking several local utility rate cases now under review by the WV Public Service Commission. In today’s story, we break down how two different methods of setting water and sewer rates work — and what they could mean for customers’ monthly bills. — Steve...

Observer Weekly December 24, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events In today’s issue, we look back at 2025 and share ideas for local, last-minute gifts. For The Observer, a 2025 highlight was being voted Best Small Local Newspaper in WV Living’s Best of West Virginia awards. If you enjoy our weekly publication, consider forwarding it to a friend or two — it’s free, thoughtful, and a personal recommendation from a reader is one of the best ways to support independent local journalism. Warm...

Observer Weekly December 18, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events We’re excited to see that new businesses are coming to Jefferson County and our local governments are making plans to improve the livability of the community. As we prepare to wrap up 2025, we’d like to note our appreciation for the local businesses who advertise in the Observer Weekly. If you’d like to join them in promoting your business to our engaged readers across Jefferson County, you can email us at...

Observer Weekly December 11, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events We’ve attended many holiday events and community gatherings this week. What we’re seeing around the county is a lot of festivity and a lot of generosity. The weather may be a bit cold, but there are a lot of warm hearts around here. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free. If...

Observer Weekly December 4, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events There are lots of holiday festivities this weekend. On Friday evening, Bolivar & Harpers Ferry kick off Olde Tyme Christmas. The Shepherdstown Christmas Parade is Saturday morning, followed by the Charles Town-Ranson Christmas Parade on Saturday afternoon. Scroll down for our complete Activities & Events listings. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is...

Observer Weekly November 26, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events Happy Thanksgiving! We’re publishing a day early this week so we can enjoy some time with our family on Thursday. We hope to see you around the county this weekend for the many festivities that kick off the holiday season. — Steve Pearson Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free. If you value...

Observer Weekly November 20, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events Every week, The Observer digs into the details that matter in Jefferson County. Our content is free for everyone to read, but producing well-researched local news isn’t free. If you value local journalism, become a paid subscriber. Federal Agencies Plan To Swap Land In Harpers Ferry The four members of West Virginia’s Congressional delegation have introduced legislation to authorize a long-planned transfer of 71.5 acres of...

Observer Weekly November 13, 2025 Jefferson County, WV news & events Jefferson County’s water supply is in the news again this week. Circuit Court Judge Cohee rejected the water bottling companies legal arguments and the Charles Town Utility Board passed on an opportunity to apply for a state grant. Planning Commission Prevails Over Sidewinder In Court The intervenors from Middleway gathered outside the courthouse after the hearing (pictured left to right): William White Grantham, Margaret...