The Observer focuses on the stories of Jefferson County and West Virginia, looking beyond the headlines to inform the public discusssion on important topics relevant to the community, including the local economy, environment, education, politics, and public health. We also spotlight local artisans, artists, musicians, businesses & community organizations.
Home Building Construction Continues On Fast Pace In Jefferson County
County-wide, including Charles Town and Ranson, there were 612 permits issued to begin new home construction in the first half of 2024. Read the Full Story >>
August 27 Public Hearing For Comment On County Comprehensive Plan
The Jefferson County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing about the draft comprehensive plan on August 27 at 7:00 pm. Read the Full Story >>
General Stores In Shepherdstown Invite Patrons To Slow Down & Enjoy Shopping
Shepherdstown is home to two general stores, both of which offer a variety of helpful and whimsical products. Read the Full Story >>
Forum at Shepherd University Discusses Issues Of Child Care Services
Shepherd University hosted a panel discussion titled “A 360 View of Child Care in Jefferson County” on July 24. Read the Full Story >>
Jefferson County Commission Rejects Solar Project Tax Abatement Request
The Jefferson County Commission voted to reject a tax abatement agreement request for the Wild Hill solar project. Read the Full Story >>
Debut Performance Of “The Niagara Movement Suite” In Harpers Ferry
The Appalachian Chember Music Festival will perform “The Niagara Movement Suite,” a new work by composer Rufus Reid, during a free concert on Sunday August 11 at the Mather Campus in Harpers Ferry. Read the Full Story >>
Tribute Hall Honors Page-Jackson High School
Delores Foster, president of the Page-Jackson Alumni Association, spoke to an enthusiastic crowd gathered on July 27, 2024 to dedicate the newly redesigned Page-Jackson Tribute Hall. Read the Full Story >>
Shepherdstown Elects New Mayor and Town Council Members
Shepherdstown residents elected James Gatz as mayor on June 4 along with 2 incumbent and 3 new council members. Read the Full Story >>
Draft Map For The Future Of Jefferson County Proposes New Growth Areas
The Jefferson County Planning Commission is holding a final input session on Monday May 13 for public comment on the future land use map and action items for the new county comprehensive plan. Read the Full Story >>
Shepherdstown Comprehensive Plan Review Presented and Discussed in Special Hearing
On April 30, Shepherdstown’s Planning Commission held a hearing at which a special committee’s recommendations to update the town’s comprehensive plan were presented to the public. Read the Full Story >>
The Rebirth Of The Mountain Lake Club In Shannondale
Jeff Shores and Matt Barager have reestablished the Mountain Lake Club in Shannondale as a family-friendly recreation spot for the community. Read the Full Story >>
Republican Party Divison Stalls County Government
Following the removal of Tricia Jackson and Jennifer Krouse on May 1, the Jefferson County Commission will operate with only 3 commissioners. Read the Full Story >>
County Commission Hires Administrator, But Many Open Items Still Need Action
The Jefferson County Commision voted on April 22 2024 for Eddie Benites-LM to continue as the County Administrator on a permanent basis. Read the Full Story >>
A Full Summer Calendar At Shepherdstown Public Library
The Shepherdstown Public Library will kick off its summer reading program with a festival on June 1. Read the Full Story >>
Getting To Know The Shepherdstown Town Run
Local residents have organized to educate, maintain, and preserve the resources of the Shepherdstown Town Run. Read the Full Story >>