The Observer Weekly covers the stories of Jefferson County and West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. Published by WV Independent Observer LLC, PO Box 3044, Shepherdstown WV 25443. Distributed weekly via free email subscription and online at ObserverWV.com. Send tips and event information to connect@ObserverWV.com.
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More County Commission Changes Ahead
Published about 3 hours ago • 13 min read
Observer Weekly
November 5, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
The election is (finally) behind us, and it was a historic one in many ways. Jefferson County’s state Delegates take office Dec. 1, and the new County Commissioners take office on Jan. 1.
As a subscriber, you’re invited to an in-person conversation with Observer Editor Steve Pearson and me about the election results and the local issues ahead in 2027.
We want to hear what’s on your mind and share what we’ve learned this year.
Sunday, Nov. 22, 2 to 3:30 p.m. Shepherdstown Opera House
131 West German St, Shepherdstown Free. Seating is limited to 100.
Democrats will hold a majority in both chambers of the United States Congress, according to projections as of Nov. 5, with several dozen House races still being counted.
As of Nov. 5, NBC News projects that the Democratic caucus will have 259 members and the Republicans will have 176 members in the next Congress. In the Senate, AP reports 54 seats won by Democrats, 44 seats won by Republicans, and two races yet to be called.
The House Democrats will have a large, but not record-breaking majority (see chart above).
In terms of how many seats flipped from Republican to Democrat in a mid-term election, the 44 seat swing in 2026 ranks third behind the 1974 mid-term election (48 seats flipped) and the 1958 mid-term election (50 seats flipped) according to The Observer’s review of records published by the United States House of Representatives.
A Smaller Shift In West Virginia
In the West Virginia legislature, Republicans kept a large Senate majority, but lost seats in the House of Delegates.
In the Senate Republicans won 18 of 19 seats up for election, giving the caucus a 30-4 seat advantage. In the House of Delegates, Democrats increased their caucus numbers from 9 to 21, dropping the House Republicans to 79 seats. While still far outnumbered, the Democrats will now have the votes to force more open floor debate. By crossing the 20 seat threshold, the Democrats also gain an additional seat on each House committee.
You can find additional local election coverage and analysis at ObserverWV.com. We will provide updates as West Virginia’s counties complete their canvass of the ballots and certify the results next week.
A message from the Skinner Law Firm
Winter Roads Are Coming. Know This Coverage.
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Jefferson County Commission Briefs
The County Commission had a full agenda for its November 5 regular meeting, which ran for a solid six hours, including four executive sessions. Here’s the highlights:
County Administrator Resigns — Edwina Benites-LM (image below, right), who has served as the County Administrator since April 2024, announced her resignation, effective December 3, 2026. Benites had shared this information in late October with the Commissioners in an email and a letter, but asked that the Commissioners not disclose her departure until after the recent election. Benites will start a new job as the County Administrator in Carroll County, Maryland on December 7, according to an announcement released earlier today by Carroll County.
Valley Link Opposition — The Commission voted unanimously to send a letter to Valley Link, the company planning to build a 765 kilovolt transmission line across Jefferson County. Commissioner Mike Mood characterized the company’s public communications so far as “smoke and mirrors, talking but not listening” and Commissioner Majdi drew a connection between the AI data centers being built in Northern Virginia and this proposed transmission line across Jefferson County. >>>Read the letter…
FOIA Request Backlog — The Commission went into executive session to receive legal advice about its ongoing backlog of unprocessed FOIA requests. No action was reported following the briefing from Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Stephen Groh and outside counsel William Rohrbaugh.
Appointments to Volunteer Boards & Commissions — The Commission filled open slots on several of its boards and commissions, including Kayla Whetstone to the Hope Services Consortium (an entity which works on affordable housing programs), Greg Welter to the Water Advisory Committee, Tasha Catro to the Agritourism Task Force, Karen Magaha to the Farmland Protection Board, and Paul Teeter to the Eastern Panhandle Transportation Authority. Commissioner Keys requested that the County Commission consider revising the bylaws of the Water Advisory Committee at the next Commission meeting. Keys noted that the Committee has had a persistent problem of empty seats due to requirements that block members of the public from serving in favor of reserving seats for local utility employees — a limited pool of people with little free time to serve on this Committee.
Agritourism Task Force Recommendations — The County Commission acted on two recommendations from its Agritourism Task Force with a motion to ask the Planning Commission to review sections 8.6A and 8.6B of the County’s zoning ordinance related to the regulation of farm markets and farmer’s markets. The substance of the recommendations would expand the uses allowed under the ordinance and streamline some of the restrictions.
Government Center Construction Funds — The Commission approved spending $4.1 million on the construction of the new facilities for the Health Department, Probation Office, and Day Report Center in the new County Government Center (393 North Lawrence St, Charles Town). The funds for this construction had already been reserved in the County’s Capital Outlay budget. The County does expect to receive a $375,000 grant to offset some of this expense. According to County staff, the construction of these improvements is expected to begin in January 2027 and the three departments are expecting to move in by early summer 2027. The Government Center already houses the County’s administrative services, the County Clerk, County Assessor, mailroom, and GIS office. The Sheriff’s Tax Office, Engineering, Planning & Zoning, and Prosecuting Attorney’s offices are expected to be relocated by January.
A message from Over The Mountain Studio Tour
All year long, the artists of the Over the Mountain Studio Tour prepare to open their studios each fall, welcoming visitors to discover their newest creations and experience the inspiration behind their work. Nestled among the beautiful rolling hills of Jefferson County, our studios offer a unique glimpse into the creative process and the lives of local artists. From expansive farms and rustic workshops to charming historic homes, each stop offers its own special experience. This free, self-guided tour invites you to explore at your own pace, meet the artists, and enjoy a weekend of art, inspiration, and discovery.
Commission OKs Collections For Unpaid Ambulance Fees
The County Commission voted at its Nov. 5 meeting to contract with a collection agency to collect more than $2 million in unpaid ambulance fee bills, some dating back to 2014.
Two Jefferson County ambulances at Citizens Fire Department on Nov. 3
Following questions from Commission President Pasha Majdi, the County’s Chief Financial Officer David Bound shared his estimate that the County could realistically expect to receive $1 million from a successful collection effort.
The report discussed by Bound during the meeting showed a total of $2,060,613 in unpaid ambulance fee bills as of August 2026. Bound divided the unpaid bills into two groups:
$1,325,551 for bills issued in fiscal years 2020 through 2026.
$735,062 for bills issued prior to fiscal year 2020 (some dating back to the first bills issued in 2014).
Under the contract that the Commission approved, the collection agency will retain 30% of the amounts collected. Bound’s calculations showed that the County could collect $1,442,429 (after the collection fees) if the entire amount is collected, which he said is unlikely.
The Commission has asked staff to report on the progress of the collection effort at its next meeting.
Fire Department Open House (Nov. 8) — The Shepherdstown Volunteer Fire Department will host an open house on Sunday to celebrate the dedication of its new Tanker 3 vehicle and a ribbon cutting for its station renovation. The public is invited for tours and refreshments. 2 – 4 pm, Sunday, Nov. 8 at 8052 Martinsburg Pike, Shepherdstown. >>>Event details…
Potomac Edison Planned Outage (Nov 9) — Several neighborhoods near Old County Club Road in Charles Town will be affected by work at the nearby Potomac Edison substation, according to a report from the Jefferson County Homeland Security & Emergency Management (JCHSEM) office. The service interruption will last for 6 hours, between 8 am and 2 pm, on Monday, November 9. The affected streets are Posting Way, Barrel Horse Drive, Bellair Manor Drive, Hanoverian Drive, Kimberwicke Drive, Walker Court, Bridle Court, Breckenridge Subdivision, Trotting Way, Pommel Lane, Belgian Way, Boulder Spring Terrace, Appaloosa Way, Polo Court, Buckskin Court, Pelham Lane, Shire Court, and Welsh Court. >>>Follow JCHSEM for updates…
First Aid Classes — The Jefferson County Emergency Services Agency will conduct two community first aid classes in November. Free to community members, registration is recommended
Nov. 7 — Parade in downtown Martinsburg (begins at noon). Parade begins at Berkeley County Judicial Center (380 West South St) and marches down Queen Street. >>>Event details…
Nov. 8 — Parade in Brunswick, MD (begins at 1 pm). >>>Event details…
Nov. 11 — Parade in Bolivar & Harpers Ferry (begins at 9 am). Lineup at 8:30 at the Post Office, march to Harpers Ferry Middle School, followed by ceremony and remarks.
Nov. 11 — Ceremony at Jefferson Memorial Park (begins at 11 am) At the memorial on East Forrest St, Charles Town. Lunch following at the Jackson-Perks American Legion Post 71 (225 West Washington St, Charles Town).
Banks, Government Offices, Banks, Libraries, and Post Offices are closed on Nov. 11.
Rabies Clinic (Nov. 14) — The Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County will offer a rabies vaccination clinic on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 8 am to 10 pm at the Moose Lodge in Ranson (77 Universal Products Rd, Ranson). $10 for one-year vaccination; bring a prior (unexpired) rabies certificate to get a new three-year certificate. >>>Event details…
Survey About Road Safety (Nov 15 deadline) — The HEPMPO (Hagerstown/Eastern Panhandle Metropolitan Planning Organization) Intersection Safety Survey is live, starting today until November 15, 2026. HEPMPO wants public input to help guide how it prioritizes the region’s intersections for safety improvements. >>>Take the survey…
A message from WV Energy and Community Alliance
Your Voice Needs to Be Heard
The proposed 765-kV Valley North line would cut through Jefferson County’s homes, farms, history, and groundwater. It won’t deliver power to our homes. It’s built to move electricity to Northern Virginia and its data centers.
We get the towers. They get the power. We pay the cost.
Don’t let them decide without you.
Valley Link Open House Wednesday, November 18, 4-7 PM Ranson Civic Center 432 W. 2nd Ave, Ranson, WV
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Theater: Twelfth Night — Shepherd University’s Rude Mechanicals Medieval and Renaissance Players perform a 1990s take on Shakespeare’s comedy. Marinoff Theater, Shepherd University, 62 West Campus Drive, Shepherdstown. Thursday–Saturday, November 5–7 and 12–14, 7 pm. Sunday, November 8 and 15, 3 pm. $5 at the door, free for Shepherd students, faculty and staff. Tickets & Info…
1st Annual Amazing Inflatables Race — Participants in inflatable costumes race and play silly games. Spectators are welcome in front of Town Hall, 104 North King St, Shepherdstown. Friday, November 6, 5 pm. Free. Info…
Film: Clueless — The Shepherd University Writing Project presents Amy Heckerling’s 1995 comedy reimagining Jane Austen’s “Emma.” Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Friday, November 6, 7 pm. Free/Pay-What-You-Can, with free books and giveaways for students with ID. Tickets & Info…
Morgan’s Grove Park Cleanup — Volunteers will help the Shepherdstown Community Club clean up the park. Bring garden gloves. Morgan’s Grove Park, 4198 Kearneysville Pike, Shepherdstown. Saturday, November 7, 9-10 am. Free. Info…
Middleway Slabtown Cemetery Volunteer Day — Volunteers will cut up downed trees, pile brush and do general maintenance to prepare the cemetery for ground-penetrating radar. Middleway Slabtown Cemetery, Leetown Road, Middleway. Saturday, November 7, 9 am. Free. Info…
Bolivar Day — The Town of Bolivar’s community afternoon with first responder displays, historical presentations, music and family activities. Bolivar Children’s Park, 1387 West Washington St, Bolivar. Saturday, November 7, 1-4 pm. Free. Info…
Movie in the Park: National Treasure — Outdoor screening of the 2004 adventure film. Bolivar Children’s Park, 1387 West Washington St, Bolivar. Saturday, November 7, 5:30 pm. Free. Info…
Film + Sing-along: Fisherman’s Friends — Comedy based on the true story of Cornish fishermen who became a popular singing group, followed by a sing-along led by the Appalachian Adaptation Sea Shanty Society. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Saturday, November 7, 7 pm. Pay-What-You-Can. Tickets & Info…
Contra Dance — Beginner-friendly contra dancing with a caller, no partner needed. War Memorial Building, second floor, 102 East German St, Shepherdstown. Saturday, November 7, 7:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Blue Moon: The Music of Rodgers & Hart — The Robert Sykes Trio and vocalist Karen Gray perform jazz songs by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart. Happy Retreat, 600 Mordington Ave, Charles Town. Sunday, November 8, 2 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Film: Barbarian Utopia — Thad Lamar’s documentary about his 2014 hike of the Appalachian Trail, followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker via Zoom. Shepherdstown Opera House, 131 West German St, Shepherdstown. Sunday, November 8, 4 pm. Pay-What-You-Can. Tickets & Info…
Spark Lecture: Refusing an Illegal Order — Michelle Casuccio presents “Refusing an Illegal Order – A Hero’s Story” in Shepherd University’s Lifelong Learning Spark Lecture Series. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Monday, November 9, 1-2:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Exhibit: The Art of Michael Austin — The Shepherdstown Community Club shows work by local veteran Michael Austin. War Memorial Building, 102 East German St, Shepherdstown. Monday–Thursday, November 9–12. Opening reception Monday, 5-8 pm. Info…
Bird Walk — Bill Telfair and Master Naturalist Scot DeGraf lead a Potomac Valley Audubon Society bird walk on the Rolling Ridge Conservancy trails, and pre-registration is required. Rolling Ridge Conservancy, 138 Tupelo Lane, Harpers Ferry. Tuesday, November 10, 7:30 am. Free/Donations accepted. Info…
Nature’s Palette Watercolor Workshop: Wood Turtle — Potomac Valley Audubon Society watercolor workshop for ages 12 and older, and registration is required. Cool Spring Preserve, 1469 Lloyd Road, Charles Town. Tuesday, November 10, 6-8 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Story Artist: Linda Schuyler Ford — Ford premieres “A Woman’s Issue: Madame Restell Speaks,” a first-person portrayal of the 19th-century abortion provider, presented by the Speak Story Series. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Tuesday, November 10, 7:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Small Ensembles Recital — Shepherd University music ensembles perform. Shipley Recital Hall, Frank Arts Center, 260 University Drive, Shepherdstown. Tuesday, November 10, 7:30 pm. $ Tickets & Info…
Master Naturalist Open House — Potomac Valley Master Naturalists hold a brief social and answer questions about becoming a Master Naturalist ahead of the Potomac Valley Audubon Society’s monthly program. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, November 11, 6 pm. Free. Info…
10 Simple Ways to Be a Good Wildlife Neighbor — CJ White of the Second Chance Wildlife Center presents the Potomac Valley Audubon Society’s monthly program. Byrd Center Auditorium, 213 North King St, Shepherdstown. Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 pm. Free. Info…
Harpers Ferry Civil War Round Table — Author Tim Snyder discusses Stonewall Jackson’s raids against the C&O Canal and the Bath-Romney Campaign in the winter of 1861-1862, the subject of his new book. Camp Hill United Methodist Church, 645 Washington St, Harpers Ferry. Wednesday, November 11, 6:30 pm dinner, 7:30 pm program. $20 dinner, reserve by November 8 at paigehfcwrt@gmail.com. Tickets & Info…
Ongoing
St. Isidore Market — Weekly market featuring local produce, baked goods and artisan products. St. James Church, 49 Crosswinds Dr, Charles Town. Thursdays, year-round, 5-6:30 pm. Info…
Shepherdstown Farmers Market — Weekly farmers market featuring local produce, meats, baked goods and artisan products. Behind the Market House, 100 South King St, Shepherdstown. Sundays, April-December, 9 am-1 pm. Info…
The Bridge Gallery is opening the holiday season with an exhibit of some of our favorite artists. We will be adding ceramics and assorted gift items throughout the season.
Joshua Hoffman, one of our exhibitors, will be doing an art demo at the gallery on Sunday, November 15 starting at 2 pm.
Spotlight — Cam Wesson, Shepherd University President
Cam Wesson receives applause following the inauguration ceremony on Oct. 30.
The Ram community gathered in Butcher Center on October 30, 2026 for the ceremonial investiture of Dr. Cameron Wesson as Shepherd University’s 17th President.
Shepherd University Provost Jack DeRochi led the proceedings, introducing the elected officials and student, staff and academic leaders who helped welcome Dr. Wesson to his new role. Among the speakers were U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito, Representative Riley Moore, and Shepherdstown Mayor James Gatz.
“I am humbled to be named the 17th President of Shepherd University,” said Wesson. “I have already learned that people are our greatest strength. That includes our many supporters who believe in the work we are doing for our students and the region.”
In his remarks, Wesson talked about planting seeds that inspire each generation, about building the future, and his unshakable belief in the value of education. Looking out over the audience, he remarked that “Our students are preparing for a world none of us can fully predict. And that makes the work of universities not less important—but more important. Because when we can’t know exactly what the future will require, we must educate people capable of meeting whatever lies ahead.”
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.
The Observer Weekly covers the stories of Jefferson County and West Virginia's Eastern Panhandle. Published by WV Independent Observer LLC, PO Box 3044, Shepherdstown WV 25443. Distributed weekly via free email subscription and online at ObserverWV.com. Send tips and event information to connect@ObserverWV.com.
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