Sidewinder Gets Pipeline Permit, Hill Top Hotel Moves Forward
Published about 3 hours ago • 14 min read
Observer Weekly
September 3, 2026
Jefferson County, WV news & events
Our lead story this week is a continuation of The Observer’s coverage of the proposed Middleway water bottling project. We first highlighted Sidewinder's plans in November 2024 just before the company’s first presentation to the Jefferson County Planning Commission. History seems to be repeating itself in 2026, as we’ve unearthed a fresh permit for constructing a water pipeline for Sidewinder.
State Issues Permit For Sidewinder Water Line Construction
The Observer discovered earlier this week that the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WV DEP) issued a construction stormwater permit, WVR 113389, for the Sidewinder Raw Water Line on May 26, 2026.
Cover page of the SWPPP document for permit WVR113389
The cover page of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that was submitted as part of the permit application (image above) indicates that the permit was issued to the Charles Town Utility Board (CTUB). The document indicates the application was prepared by Integrity Federal Services, the Martinsburg-based engineering firm that represented the Sidewinder company when it was seeking a permit from the Jefferson County Planning Commission to construct a water bottling facility on a former industrial site adjacent to the historic Middleway village.
CTUB General Manager Paul Mantello said he was not aware that this permit had been issued and had not seen any records of it in CTUB’s files when The Observer spoke with him this week. A SWPPP document produced by CTUB normally includes an affidavit of accuracy and completeness signed by the General Manager, but the SWPPP document included with this permit application is unsigned.
In response to inquiries from The Observer, a representative of Integrity Federal Services said he would be investigating if CTUB was notified of the application and permit documents, which include a public notice sign that is required to be posted along the route of the project.
Timeline of the Application
Documents available through the WV DEP online document portal show that the prior General Manager, Kristen Stolipher (who is married to Jefferson County Commissioner Steve Stolipher), signed the initial application for the permit in November 2025. Stolipher resigned from CTUB in February 2026.
The WV DEP portal shows that the Sidewinder application documents (including the November 2025 form signed by Stolipher) were uploaded on March 17, 2026 — after Stolipher had resigned, but before Mantello, who was hired on April 16, took on the General Manager role.
The WV DEP system also shows that a representative from Integrity Federal Services responded to several technical questions and the application was resubmitted twice, once on April 15 and again on May 22 (the Friday before Memorial Day). The application was approved on Tuesday, May 26 (the day after Memorial Day).
Pipeline Plan Has Troubled History
The second concept plan that Sidewinder presented to the Jefferson County Planning Commission in 2024 showed this pipeline running between its water well adjacent to Lake Louise and running under Old Middleway Pike before it turns and runs through the center of the historic Middleway village. The concerns that this pipeline construction would disturb the historic structures and sites along its path were cited as reasons when the Planning Commission rejected Sidewinder revised concept plan in March 2025.
In January 2025, the CTUB Board also took objection to how Stolpher had committed CTUB to taking ownership of this pipeline after it was constructed by Sidewinder, allowing the company to name CTUB as the applicant for permits it needed from the WV Division of Highways. The Board explicitly directed Stolipher to bring all future agreements with Sidewinder to its attention prior to making any commitments. There is no record in the CTUB minutes of any discussion about the CTUB board authorizing the General Manager to submit the construction stormwater permit application to WV DEP.
When the construction stormwater application was later uploaded into the WV DEP system in March 2026, Sidewinder was active in lobbying against several bills introduced in the State Senate and House of Delegates that would have added controls to water extraction in West Virginia. At the same time, another bill, SB 648, was passed and signed into law on April 1 2026. This new law could potentially reclassify water extraction as an activity that could be exempted from local control under certain circumstances.
The Jefferson County Commission has scheduled a special meeting on Friday, September 4 at 9 am. The agenda description for this meeting indicates the Commission may be reviewing Sidewinder’s activities to influence legislation at the same time it was laying the groundwork to build its pipeline.
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Hill Top Hotel Gets Final Permit Needed For Construction
The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (WV DEP) issued a construction stormwater permit to SWaN Hill Top House Hotel (SWaN) on August 13, 2026.
Access gate to public overlook
Laurel Ziemianski, SWaN’s project manager, says that this permit is the final required permit necessary for the Hill Top Hotel project to move forward. In a statement earlier this week to The Observer, Ziemianski said that the SWaN team is “grateful to the State of West Virginia and its agencies for helping us prepare for the upcoming “rebirth” of the Hill Top House Hotel.”
The construction stormwater permit issued by WV DEP — officially known as National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit WVR113536 — includes a plan for erosion and sedimentation controls to ensure that the activity on the site during and after construction does not discharge more water or sediment than the site generates in its existing, pre-construction, state.
The new NPDES permit replaces a permit issued in 2022 for the demolition of the prior Hill Top Hotel structure.
The NPDES permit documents indicate an estimated start date of November 2026 and an estimated completion date of December 2028. Ziemianski says that SWaN is still finalizing the project financing. The company has not yet announced a specific date for when it will begin construction on the site.
A message from the Jefferson County Chamber of Commerce
Join Us for the 50th — BRING A FRIEND & GET IN FREE!
Bring a friend and make a day of it! Celebrate the 50th Annual Mountain Heritage Arts & Crafts Festival with incredible handmade arts and crafts, live Appalachian music, delicious food, family-friendly fun, and the rich traditions of our region.
For a limited time, buy one admission and get one FREE! It’s the perfect excuse to grab your favorite festival buddy and enjoy a day filled with creativity, Appalachian heritage, music, food and memories.
Don’t miss this golden anniversary celebration, 50 years of Appalachian tradition!
You must have a printed copy (color or b/w) of the BOGO ad in hand to enjoy the BOGO, download one here!
County Commission OKs Data Center "Guardrails" Effort
On September 3, the Jefferson County Commission voted unanimously to approve a data center workshop bringing together representatives from the county's five municipalities — Ranson, Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, Bolivar, and Shepherdstown — along with the County Commission and the public.
Jefferson County Commission
The workshop, which the County will work to schedule for September 28, was proposed by Commissioner Cara Keys. According to Keys, the goal is to develop a “Jefferson County Good Neighbor Data Center Guardrails” document to help guide local decisions and give the county and its towns one unified voice.
Keys said she wants the workshop to open with public comment. Then the attendees would discuss concerns specific to each town and the county, and work together to shape the document. A key outcome of the workshop would be a two-page outline of the protections residents care about most. Keys also wants the workshop group to figure out next steps for taking a unified stance at the state level. Keys plans to prepare a first draft to kick off the discussion.
Commission President Pasha Majdi called the effort timely and responsive to the state’s request for local input. Governor Patrick Morrisey’s “Responsible Data Center Development Plan,” announced last month, calls for a Data Center Advisory Council with members from local government, universities, conservation groups, industry, and utilities. The council, which has not yet been formed, would recommend statewide rules on things like setbacks, noise, and distance from sensitive sites like schools.
Whatever standards the state’s advisory council eventually recommends, Jefferson County's own authority remains constrained by existing law. HB 2014 prohibits counties and municipalities from enforcing zoning, land-use, permitting, or licensing requirements against projects certified as “High Impact Data Centers.”
The state's new plan does not amend HB 2014 or restore the control counties and towns had before Governor Morrisey signed it in April 2025. A guardrails document can't change that, but the Commission's vote suggests officials hope it can shape the standards to come.
A message from WVU Medicine
The Future is Here!
WVU Medicine is bringing advanced specialty care, new services, and major investments directly to the Eastern Panhandle region. Advancements are underway to ambulatory services, cancer care, and more at WVU Medicine Jefferson Medical Center as part of a major $260 million investment to expand healthcare access in the Eastern Panhandle. Learn more about our new services and providers at WVUMedicine.org/FutureisHere, or follow us on social media.
Fun In The Town Run — The Town Run Watershed has a monthly cleanup, with this month’s event meeting at the lower parking lot in Morgan’s Grove Park on September 12 at 9 am. On Sunday, September 20, the group hosts a “ducky race” for kids of all ages. >>>More details…
Data Center Forums — There are two data center information events scheduled for Saturday, September 12:
The Jefferson County NAACP will be hosting an event at Wright Denny Intermediate school (209 West Congress Ave, Charles Town) from 3 to 5 pm. This event will be moderated by Annette Ringgold and will include Than Hitt, Cara Keys, Staci Hartwell, Theodora Scarato, and Alexander Link as panelists. >>>Details…
Local residents have organized a forum at Spring Mills High School (499 Campus Dr, Martinsburg) from 6 to 8 pm. >>>Details…
Two Rivers Giving Circle Grant Program — Applications are being accepted from the Two Rivers Giving Circle for historic preservation and natural resource conservation projects. Grant applications between $500-$2500 will be accepted until September 14 for the 2026 grant cycle. >>>Details and application form…
Food Box Giveaway Event in Ranson (Sep 15) — Community Markets, Ranson Parks & Recreation, and the City of Ranson are hosting a food box event on September 15 between noon and 2 pm. The event will take place at Marcus Field (132 Athletic Way, Ranson). >>>Details…
A message from The Bridge Gallery
Matthews & Shank Art Collection Sale
On Saturday, September 12 the Bridge Gallery is opening a sale of paintings from the personal collection of longtime Shepherdstown residents and former antique and art dealers, John Shank and Joe Matthews. While a portion of their estate has been sent to auction, there remains a collection of beautiful paintings and art pieces for this sale. A selection of local and regional artists will be a part of the exhibit including work by Ben Summerford, Don Rees, James Kline, Seth Hill, Jacob Stilley, and more. The exhibit will run through October 11.
Opening Reception is Saturday, September 12, 5-7 pm.
Call (304) 876-2300 for additional information.
Battle of Harpers Ferry Anniversary Events Sep 12 – 15
The Harpers Ferry National Historical Park will commemorate the 164th anniversary of the Battle of Harpers Ferry this month with four days of special events. No pre-registration is required and event admission is included in the regular park fee.
September 12 (Saturday afternoon) — Under Fire: The Battle of Harpers Ferry, 1862. The Baltimore Light Artillery volunteers and park rangers will conduct artillery demonstrations at 1:00, 2:00, and 3:00 pm. Experience the sights, sounds, and smell of roaring cannons to better understand how field artillery helped Confederate forces under Stonewall Jackson capture the U.S. garrison. >>>Event details…
September 13 (Sunday morning) —A Terrible Engagement of Small Arms: The Fight for Maryland Heights. Follow in the footsteps of U.S. soldiers as they rushed to defend Maryland Heights during this strenuous, ranger-guided hike to the Stone Fort. The total trail length is a minimum of 6 miles. >>>Event details…
September 13 (Sunday afternoon) — Seeking Freedom. During the Civil War, about 2,000 enslaved people sought freedom amongst the U.S. Army lines in Harpers Ferry. Following the U.S. garrison’s surrender, freedom seekers who had sought refuge within U.S. Army lines faced re-enslavement. This program will present the stories of 13 women and children among them and their attempt to claim freedom. >>>Event details…
September 14 (Monday afternoon) — Like a Disturbed Anthill. After losing Maryland Heights, U.S. troops could do little but endure as Confederate forces bombarded their positions with artillery. Explore their fate as Confederate General Jackson sought to bring the Battle of Harpers Ferry to a swift conclusion during this half-mile, ranger-guided walk. >>>Event details…
September 15 (Tuesday morning) — The Fate of Harpers Ferry was Sealed. Take a one-mile, flat hike with a ranger to learn the key role the Chambers Farm played on Sept. 15, 1862. This will include a 1-mile, easy hike. >>>Event details…
A message from the Shepherdstown Opera House
Short Film Festival Comes To Shepherdstown
The Shepherdstown Opera House is participating in the MANHATTAN SHORT Film Festival on September 25, 26 & 27. Last year’s event was so popular that we added an extra day — purchase your tickets now so you don’t miss out on the fun!
Highlights of upcoming events around Jefferson County:
Shepherdstown Live: First Friday — Live music with Megan Jean & Byrne Klay. Jefferson Security Bank parking lot, 105 East Washington St, Shepherdstown. Friday, September 4, 5-7 pm. Free. Info…
Theatre People, or The Angel Next Door — A young novelist's forthcoming Broadway adaptation is complicated when a countryside weekend reveals hidden secrets. Old Opera House, 204 North George St, Charles Town. September 4–13, Fri & Sat 7:30 pm, Sun 2:30 pm. $. Tickets & Info…
Charles Town Car Show — The 17th annual car show brings vintage and classic vehicles to downtown Charles Town. 101 E Washington St, Charles Town. Saturday, September 5, 10 am - 3pm. Free. Info…
Waste Not, Want Not: Recycling, Repairs, and Repurposing in Historic Trades — A living-history program exploring how 19th-century workers recycled, repaired, and repurposed everyday materials rather than discarding them. Lower Town, Blacksmith Shop, Harpers Ferry National Historic Park. Saturday, September 5, 11 am. Included with park admission. Info…
Annual Labor Day Picnic and Boot Sale — A community picnic paired with a "boot sale" — a yard sale from the trunk of your car — with concessions, live music, and kids' activities. Morgan's Grove Park, 4198 Kearneysville Pike, Shepherdstown. Monday, September 7, Noon-3 pm (picnic) and 9 am-2 pm (boot sale). Free. Info…
Shepherdstown Live: Labor Day Celebration — Live music with the Shenandoah Dukes to launch the opening of a temporary pedestrian plaza behind the Market House, 100 East German St, Shepherdstown. Monday, September 7, 5-7 pm. Free. Info…
Rolling Ridge Conservancy Bird Walk — A guided morning bird walk through the forested trails of Rolling Ridge Conservancy. Preregistration required. 138 Tupelo Lane, Harpers Ferry. Tuesday, September 8, 7:30-10:30 am. Free, donations welcome. Info…
Community CPR and Stop the Bleed — A hands-on training course covering CPR and bleeding-control techniques. Jefferson County Emergency Services Agency, 419 Sixteenth Avenue, Ranson. Tuesday, September 8, 6:00 pm with additional sessions offered this fall. Free. Info…
Nature's Palette Watercolor Workshop: Monarch butterfly — A monthly watercolor class exploring a new corner of the natural world each session, with this month's theme the Monarch butterfly and no experience necessary. Cool Spring Preserve, 1469 Lloyd Road, Charles Town. Tuesday, September 8, 6 pm. $. Tickets & Info…
Story artist: Adam Booth — 2022 West Virginia Folk Artist of the Year Adam Booth blends Appalachian folklore, music, and storytelling artistry in this Speak Story Series performance. Marinoff Theater, 62 West Campus Dr, Shepherdstown. Tuesday, September 8, 7:30 pm. $. Tickets & Info…
Wee Naturalists at Cool Spring: Monarch Migration — A hands-on nature program for young children (ages 3-5) to learn about the monarch butterfly's life cycle. Cool Spring Preserve, 1469 Lloyd Road, Charles Town. Wednesday, September 9, 9:30 am-2:30 pm (2 sessions offered). $. Tickets & Info…
Harpers Ferry Civil War Roundtable — Dinner (reservation required) and discussion, this month led by James Hessler exploring the Battle of Little Bighorn. Camp Hill Methodist Church, 645 Washington St, Harpers Ferry. Wednesday, September 9, 6:30 pm. Info…
Trail Stewards Volunteer Workday at Yankauer Nature Preserve — Join the Potomac Valley Audubon Society’s Land Management and Conservation team for trail stewardship. Recommended for ages 16 and up. Yankauer Nature Preserve, 438 Whitings Neck Road, Martinsburg. Thursday, September 10, 9-11:30 am. Free. 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…
Historic Shepherdstown Museum — The museum is open for its 2026 season for visitors to explore exhibits on local history and heritage. Historic Shepherdstown Museum, 129 East German St, Shepherdstown. Saturdays, 11 am-5 pm and Sundays, 1-4 pm. Admission by donation ($5 suggested). Info…
Charles Town Farmers Market — Weekly open-air farmers market featuring local produce, baked goods and artisan vendors. South Samuel St between Washington St and Congress St, Charles Town. Saturdays, 9 am-noon. Free. Info…
Martinsburg Farmers Market — Seasonal farmers market featuring local produce, meats, baked goods and crafts. 125 West King St, Martinsburg. Saturdays, April-October, 10 am-2 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…
Women's Ride on the C&O Canal — A group bicycle ride on the C&O Canal. Shepherdstown. Wednesday, Aug. 12, 5:30-7:30 pm. Free. Info…
Group gathered at the North Mildred Depot building
“Two years of nothing turned into something” was how Liz Cook began her remarks at this week’s “Walk About Nothing.” The September 2 walk drew a crowd of 109 participants who gathered at the North Mildred Depot for music, ice cream and cake to celebrate the second year anniversary of the program.
Cook continued her remarks by thanking several volunteers who have assisted with the program for the past two years, including Patrick Wallace and Christina Smith of the Old Opera House, Jess Derr and Seth Rivard of Charles Town Now, and Jessy and Matt Printz of the North Mildred Depot. Cook also recognized the efforts of two participants, Tim and Brian, whom she designated as the program’s safety officers and Sandy and Andy Cavalier, who provided the oversized cake for the anniversary celebration.
Cook says that she has several special themes scheduled for walks this fall, including a history walk with Randy Hilton, sneak peaks at some new businesses coming to downtown, a murder-mystery walk on October 7, and a Halloween-themed walk later in October.
Walks About Nothing are scheduled for the first and third Wednesday of each month. The walks begin at 6 pm in front of the Charles Town City Hall (101 East Washington Street). The Charles Town Now Facebook page is a resource for details of upcoming walks (posted a week or so in advance) and other community events happening in Charles Town.
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