OHIO VALLEY — November 12, 2026 — Steubenville officials are addressing the future of the former Fort Steuben Mall, West Virginia local governments are facing rising health insurance costs, and a fallen World War II soldier has returned home to Marshall County.
Here are the latest River News headlines for Thursday, November 12.
Steubenville Mayor Addresses Fort Steuben Mall Closure
Steubenville Mayor Ralph Petrella delivered his first State of the City address Wednesday, highlighting community improvements and challenges facing the city.
Petrella discussed progress involving grants, parks and the city’s growing college community.
He also addressed the closure of the Fort Steuben Mall, identifying it as a major issue for Steubenville’s future. The mayor emphasized the city’s commitment to confronting the challenge.
West Virginia Local Government Workers Face Rising Insurance Costs
Health insurance costs could continue increasing for county and local government employees across West Virginia.
According to the West Virginia Association of Counties, proposed Public Employees Insurance Agency (PEIA) changes include a 24% premium increase for the Gold high-deductible plan and a 4% increase for most other plans.
The association estimates premiums could rise approximately 66% between 2023 and 2027.
County officials warn that increasing insurance expenses could make it more difficult for local governments to retain employees.
Fallen World War II Soldier Returns Home to Moundsville
The remains of U.S. Army Air Forces Technical Sergeant Raymond Richmond arrived in Moundsville on Veterans Day, more than eight decades after his death.
Richmond died while being held in a Japanese prison camp during World War II.
His remains were transported from Hawaii and escorted from Pittsburgh to Marshall County on Wednesday.
A public funeral is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, allowing family members and the community to honor his military service.
Steubenville’s Tuskegee Airmen Mural to Return Downtown
Steubenville officials announced Wednesday that the city’s Tuskegee Airmen mural will return to downtown.
The mural, which was removed over the summer, will be repainted on a wall at the Antiques Warehouse on Market Street.
The artwork honors the Tuskegee Airmen, the pioneering Black military aviators who served during World War II.
Woodsfield Man Accused of Cemetery Vandalism on Veterans Day
A 27-year-old man is facing charges following an alleged act of vandalism at a cemetery in Woodsfield.
Police accuse Cordell Vincent of damaging the cemetery and desecrating American flags on Veterans Day.
Vincent faces charges involving vandalism, desecration and littering.
The allegations remain subject to court proceedings.
Ohio Tax Collections Exceed State Projections
Ohio collected approximately $146 million more in tax revenue than projected during October, according to the state’s Office of Budget and Management.
The total was roughly 6% above expectations.
Since July, state tax revenue has increased approximately $829 million compared with the same period last year.
Non-auto sales taxes accounted for nearly 90% of that increase, indicating strong consumer spending.
Ohio Sees Increase in Mortgage Delinquencies and Foreclosures
Ohio officials are reporting an increase in the share of mortgages that are behind on payments or in foreclosure.
According to the Ohio Office of Budget and Management, that share increased 17% in September compared with the previous year.
The report also noted a national mortgage delinquency and foreclosure rate of 4.2%.
The figures highlight growing financial pressures facing some homeowners.
Wheeling-Based National Guard Helicopter Assists With Wildfire
A West Virginia National Guard Black Hawk helicopter based in Wheeling is assisting firefighters battling the Kessel Fire in Morgan County.
The helicopter has been collecting water from the lake at Cacapon Resort State Park and transporting it to the fire.
The aerial operation is supporting efforts to contain the wildfire.
New Art Marketplace Opening in Downtown East Liverpool
Makers Exchange & Galleria of Fine Arts is preparing to open in downtown East Liverpool on Saturday, November 28.
The marketplace will feature handmade products and fine art from local makers.
A grand opening ceremony is scheduled for 11 a.m., with shopping available until 4 p.m.
The new business aims to provide artists and creative entrepreneurs with a place to showcase and sell their work.
River News will continue providing updates on these stories and other developments affecting communities throughout the Ohio Valley.
Visit RiverNews.org for continuing local news coverage.
