Data Center Event, Utilities Plan Rate Increases, Shepherdstown Spotlight
Published 1 day ago • 10 min read
Observer Weekly
March 12, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
The West Virginia legislature is closing in on the end of its regular 2026 session at midnight on March 14. A lot can happen in the last two days as the House and Senate take turns asking each other to concur as each body votes on last-minute floor amendments to legislation.
Last year, the HB 2014 “data center & microgrid” legislation changed several times during the final week as the two houses traded amendments. This year, the legislation that enacts the rules to implement HB 2014 has seen a similar back and forth. On March 10, the Senate amended HB 4983 to include a requirement to evaluate the water usage of these projects as part of the certification process. That bill was sent back to the House yesterday with a request that it concur with the change.
The Observer is partnering with the Stubblefield Institute to present a panel discussion on data centers and microgrids at the end of this month (details below) and we expect we’ll have a lot more information to share by then.
— Steve Pearson
The Observer is proud to be the "Best Small Local Newspaper" in West Virginia — WV Living's Best of West Virginia - 2025 Gold Award Winner
Earlier this week the WV Public Service Commission (PSC) gave its final approval for West Virginia American Water (WVAW) to raise water and sewer rates for customers across the state.
The rate increases approved as part of PSC cases 25-0426-W-42T (water) and 25-0426-S-42T (sewer) will be effective from March 1, 2026, according to a company press release issued on March 10. The company says “residential water customers using 3,000 gallons per month will see their average bill increase by approximately $6 per month, and residential wastewater customers will see their average bill increase by approximately $7 per month.”
American Water Forecasts Earnings Growth
The parent company of WVAW, American Water Works Company, Inc. (NYSE: AWK) provided earnings guidance during an investor presentation on March 10, indicating that its 2026 earnings would be in the range of $6.02 and $6.12 per share. The company forecast a long-term growth rate between 7 and 9 percent for its earnings per share (image from presentation, above).
First Energy Files Rate Increase Notice
On March 9, Potomac Edison and Mon Power, the First Energy subsidiary companies that provide electricity in West Virginia, filed a notice of intent for a rate increase request. The notice indicates that the full rate increase request will be filed with the WV Public Service Commission within 30 days. Customers will be able to submit comments about the rate increase request after the PSC opens the rate case.
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Shepherdstown Snapshot
Shepherdstown has been named one of the top 20 historic small towns in the United States by USA Today's 10Best readers' choice contest. Experience Shepherdstown is encouraging all county residents to show their support and cast a vote for Shepherdstown every day until the end of March (click here for the online voting link).
A new art bench at “The Wall” in front of McMurran Hall is turning heads with some legendary company. Created by local artist and longtime art educator Brandon Nicklas, the bench features a gathering of famous West Virginia cryptids — including the Mothman, the Flatwoods Monster, the Sheepsquatch, and the mysterious Snallygaster. The bench, which is the second in a new art bench series (the first one is the dog-themed bench in front of the Market House), was unveiled March 7 by Mayor James Gatz (photo above).
In a March 11 presentation to the Town Council, Jefferson County Convention and Visitors Bureau head Annette Gavin-Bates noted the popularity with visitors of the recently-remodeled Welcome Center which has been operated by the CVB since December 2024. She reported that the county once again led the state in visitor spending in 2025, with Jefferson County visitors generating $916 million — part of more than $6 billion spent statewide. The Eastern Panhandle as a whole accounted for 19% of West Virginia's total tourism revenue. Gavin-Bates also encouraged attendance at the annual Jefferson County Tourism Summit, scheduled for April 14 at the Bavarian Inn, with state Secretary of Tourism Chelsea Ruby expected to attend.
Shepherdstown's popular May Day celebration is returning to McMurran lawn this year. Maypole dancers and live music will come downtown on Sunday, May 3, starting at noon, with music continuing until 3 pm. The Town Council unanimously approved the event last night.
The Town Council and Planning Commission will hold a joint workshop on the town’s Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance on Monday, March 16 at 6:45 pm. The session is open to the public and details will be posted at Shepherdstown.gov.
The Town’s finance director reported yesterday that the town is on track to end the fiscal year — which closes June 30 — with a surplus. The Town Council is now working on next year's budget, which must be submitted to the state in April.
According to organizers, more than 4,000 seats have been sold for this year's American Conservation Film Festival, which opens tomorrow and runs over the weekend at the Frank Arts Center on Shepherd University's campus. The annual festival draws environmental and nature film fans to town for several days of screenings and other programming. Unclaimed seats will be sold 15 minutes before each screening to walk-up patrons.
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Data Center Panel Discussion — The Stubblefield Institute at Shepherd University will host a discussion about data centers on March 31 featuring four panelists:
Cara Keys, Jefferson County Commissioner
Amy Margolis, Tucker United (a citizens advocacy group)
Chris Morris, WV’s Data Economy Office
Dada Slezak, QTS (a data center developer)
The event will be moderated by Steve Pearson, editor of the Observer Weekly. In-person tickets for the event are sold out, but the event will also be broadcast live. The public is invited to submit questions prior to the event. More information at StubblefieldInstitute.org.
Temporary Restraining Order On Williamsport ICE Facility — According to a statement released by Maryland Attorney General Anthony G. Brown on March 11, the “U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) immediately pausing any construction or retrofitting of a warehouse near Williamsport, Maryland.” The Attorney General’s complaint filed with the District Court earlier this week cited concerns about the inadequacy of the water and sewer infrastructure at the facility and irreversible harm to the local environment from sewage and construction runoff. The Department of Homeland Security purchased the 825,000 square foot warehouse facility located at 16220 Wright Road on January 12 2026 for $102 million. Last week, DHS issued a $113 million contract to retrofit the facility as a detention center, with a target completion date in May 2026.
National Poison Prevention Week (March 15 – 21) — The national poison help line is 800-222-1222. The help line is free, confidential, and available 24/7, offering expert guidance for poison exposures involving medications, chemicals, plants, or gases. The poison help website hosted by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services offers tips and resources for reducing poison risks in home as well as guidelines for what to do if you need help.
MEETINGS
Mar 20 (Fri, 9:00 am): Jefferson County Commission — special budget workshop. Location: County Government Building meeting room (393 North Lawrence St, Charles Town — entrance is on the right side of the building). Agenda details: Presentation on revenues, department budget requests, deliberation by County Commission and possible adoption of fiscal year 2027 county budget. The meeting will be broadcast via Zoom (see agenda for details).
Celebrate the music and magic of Neil Diamond in this heartfelt musical drama. Song Sung Blue follows the journey of a tribute band as they chase their dreams, navigate relationships, and rediscover the joy of performing.
Featuring Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson, the film has earned an Oscar nomination for Best Actress and a sky-high Rotten Tomatoes audience rating of 98%. Perfect for music lovers and anyone who believes in the power of song and resilience.
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Film: Arctic Alchemy — Documentary screening examining climate science and Arctic ecosystems followed by a discussion. NCTC Auditorium, 698 Conservation Way, Shepherdstown. Thursday, Mar 12, 7 pm. No reservations required. Discussion following the film. Free. Info…
Lecture: Civilian Conservation Corps at Gettysburg — Dr. Jill Titus of Gettysburg College to speak about the history and impact of the CCC at Gettysburg National Military Park in the program presented by Shepherd University’s George Tyler Moore Center. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Thursday, Mar 12, 7 - 8 pm. Free admission (drinks and popcorn/candy for sale). Info…
American Conservation Film Festival — Annual film festival presenting conservation‑themed documentaries and short films from around the world. Frank Center, 260 University Dr, Shepherdstown. Friday, Mar 13 – Sunday, Mar 15, Various times. $ Tickets & Info…
Case Nature Center Open Day — Drop‑in day with nature activities, docents, and wildlife exhibits at the Case Nature Center. Cool Spring Preserve, 1469 Lloyd Rd, Charles Town. Friday, Mar 13, 9:30 am - 3 pm. Free. Info…
Turtle Time at Case Nature Center — Family‑friendly program introducing turtles and their habitats. Cool Spring Preserve, 1469 Lloyd Rd, Charles Town. Friday, Mar 13, 10 am. Free. Info…
Crafty Story Time — Story reading followed by a themed craft for children. Bolivar‑Harpers Ferry Public Library, 151 Polk St, Harpers Ferry. Friday, Mar 13, 11 am. Free. Info…
Hedda Gabler — Roving Peregrine Theater Company presents Henrik Ibsen’s drama about autonomy and societal expectations. Black Box Arts Center, 113 South Princess St, Shepherdstown. Friday, Mar 13 – Sunday, Mar 22, various times. $ Tickets & Info…
Martinsburg Apollo Film Festival — Showcase of independent and regional films with screenings and panels. Apollo Civic Theater, 128 East Martin St, Martinsburg. Friday, Mar 13 – Sunday, Mar 15, Various times. $ Tickets & Info…
Pancake Breakfast — Community breakfast fundraiser with pancakes, sausage, and coffee. New Street United Methodist Church, 202 West New St, Shepherdstown. Saturday, Mar 14, 7 - 11 am. $ Tickets & Info…
Town & Trail Alliance Trash Pick Up — Volunteer cleanup of trails and public spaces organized by Town & Trail Alliance. Meeting Point: Harpers Ferry Town Hall, 1010 Washington St, Harpers Ferry. Saturday, Mar 14, 10 am - noon. Info…
Youth Book Club (Ages 8–12) — Book discussion and activities for children ages 8–12. Bolivar‑Harpers Ferry Public Library, 151 Polk St, Harpers Ferry. Saturday, Mar 14, 11 am. Free. Info…
Celebrate Youth Art Month — Opening reception celebrating student artwork for Youth Art Month. Firehouse Gallery, 108 North George St, Charles Town. Saturday, Mar 14, 1 - 3 pm. Free. Info…
St. Patrick’s Day Celebration — Fifth annual celebration featuring live Irish‑themed music, food trucks, local restaurant specials, and vendors. Downtown Martinsburg. Saturday, Mar 14, 12 pm - 7 pm. Presented by Main Street Martinsburg. Free. Info…
Shepherdstown Farmers Market — Last indoor market of the winter season with fresh produce, baked goods, and artisan foods from local vendors. War Memorial Building, 102 East German St, Shepherdstown. Sunday, Mar 15, 10 am - 1 pm. Free. Info…
Community First Aid — Basic first aid instruction offered by Jefferson County Emergency Services Agency. Jefferson County Emergency Services Agency, 419 Sixteenth Ave, Ranson. Tuesday, Mar 17, 6 pm. Free. Info…
Farmer Workshops: What Certifications Are Right For Me? — Workshop covering certification options for farmers; pre‑registration required. Shepherd University Farm, 482 Billmyer Rd, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, Mar 18, 5:30 - 7 pm. Free. Info…
SKYWARN Basics Class — Severe weather identification and reporting basics for volunteer storm spotters; pre‑registration required. Jefferson County Government Complex, 393 North Lawrence St, Charles Town. Wednesday, Mar 18, 6 - 8 pm. Free. Info…
History on Tap: Irishman Joseph Barry and his American Dream — Talk on Irish immigrant Joseph Barry and his experience in 19th century Harpers Ferry. Alstadts Ale House, 408 Alstadts Hill Rd, Harpers Ferry. Thursday, Mar 19, 6 - 7 pm. Free. Registration recommended. Presented by Harpers Ferry Park Association. Info…
Stitch & Flicks: How To Make An American Quilt — Craft and film night featuring the movie How To Make An American Quilt, co‑presented with Yarnability. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Thursday, Mar 19, 6:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Ongoing
Art Exhibit: The Audacity of the Mundane — Photography by Charlee Brodsky. Shepherdstown Public Library, 145 Higbee Ln, Shepherdstown. Exhibit runs until Mar 31. Free. Info…
St. Isidore Market — Community market offering locally produced food and goods. St. James Church, 49 Crosswinds Dr, Charles Town. Thursdays, 5:00 - 6:30 pm. Free. Info…
234 runners registered for Ranson’s inaugural Race 5K on Saturday, March 7. The race was held in conjunction with the Health and Wellness Fair at the Ranson Civic Center. Debbie McClure, Director of Community Projects, explained that the health fair was a new last year, and the the City was looking to expand the event for this year.
City Council member Jaelyn Wratchford took up the challenge and connected with the local running community and businesses to add the race to the schedule for this year. Wratchford said “the civic center is a place that can draw people to Ranson and this event is a good way to showcase the facility. Our goal was 100 runners, so we’re excited to see how many signed up.”
The Observer asked the organizers if they have plans to keep expanding the event and they floated the idea of adding a kids fun run. Stay tuned and mark your calendars for next March!
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.
