Friday, November 13, 2026
Several developments are making headlines across the Ohio Valley, including a dispute over public spending in Jefferson County, proposed changes to Ohio’s legislative process, new investments in local communities, and preparations for the Thanksgiving travel season.
Jefferson County Commissioners Approve Water Line Payment
Jefferson County commissioners voted Thursday to authorize a payment of more than $243,000 for relocating a water line along State Route 213.
County Auditor E.J. Conn has refused to release the payment for approximately seven months, raising concerns that the project moved forward without a formal vote, competitive bidding, or a signed contract.
Commissioners maintain that the relocation was necessary to accommodate state road repairs. Conn said his attorney will review the resolution and commissioners’ vote.
Wintersville Lawmaker Proposes Changes to Ohio’s Veto Override Process
Ohio State Representative Ron Ferguson, a Republican from Wintersville, is introducing a resolution that would lower the number of House votes required to override a governor’s veto from 60 to 50.
The proposal follows election results that ended the Republican supermajority in the Ohio House.
Ferguson’s proposal has received a cautious response from Republican leadership as lawmakers prepare for the General Assembly’s lame-duck session.
Wintersville Secures Approximately $360,000 Through Oil and Gas Lease
The Village of Wintersville is expected to receive approximately $360,000 after fees through a new oil and gas lease covering roughly 60 acres, including village streets and alleys.
Mayor Mike Petrella said 25% of the proceeds will be placed into the village’s perpetual fund, while the remaining money will support street improvements and water infrastructure projects.
Marshall County Breaks Ground on New Elementary School
Marshall County school officials broke ground Thursday on a new Riverside Elementary School in McMechen, West Virginia.
Superintendent Shelby Haines said the current Riverside Elementary is among the district’s older school buildings and was originally designed with an open classroom floor plan.
The project includes $9 million in funding from the West Virginia School Building Authority.
West Virginia Announces Major Energy Investments
West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey announced plans for significant investments in the state’s energy infrastructure.
According to Morrisey, Appalachian Power is committing $17 billion toward three natural gas power plants, along with another $7.5 billion for improvements to existing coal-fired facilities.
The investments are part of the governor’s broader goal of tripling West Virginia’s power generation capacity by 2050.
Belmont County Salvation Army Launches Holiday Fundraising Campaign
The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle Campaign is underway in Belmont County, with officials reporting a growing need for assistance this holiday season.
The organization has set a fundraising goal of $96,000, as up to 350 families have already applied for assistance.
Donations collected through the campaign will help support individuals and families in need.
Pittsburgh International Airport Prepares for Thanksgiving Travel Rush
Travelers flying through Pittsburgh International Airport this Thanksgiving are being encouraged to prepare for heavy passenger traffic.
Transportation Security Administration officials recommend arriving at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.
Officials expect the Sunday following Thanksgiving to be among the busiest travel days as passengers return home.
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