Shepherdstown Council Approves Banner Contest Funds, Sexual Assault Awareness Ribbons, and FY28 Budget

The Shepherdstown Town Council has greenlit funding for cash prizes in an upcoming banner contest, agreed to display teal ribbons to support Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and finalized the proposed Fiscal Year 2028 Operating Budget, according to information released by the Town. These decisions, made during a special meeting on March 19, 2026, reflect ongoing efforts to enhance community engagement, support local initiatives, and manage town finances responsibly. The approved budget projects revenues and expenditures of $3.03 million, aiming to fully fund essential services while maintaining a contingency reserve.

The “Welcome to Shepherdstown” Banner Contest will now include cash prizes for winning designs, building upon previous funding allocated for the creation of new banners. This initiative aims to engage local artists and celebrate the unique character and culture of Shepherdstown through public art displays. In a separate community awareness effort, the Council has authorized the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center to place teal ribbons on town trees throughout April, marking the 25th annual observance of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This campaign seeks to raise public awareness and offer support to survivors of sexual assault.

The Town Council also accepted several key donations designed to bolster town services and infrastructure. The Women of the Moose contributed $100 to support the Police Department’s operational needs. Additionally, the City of Martinsburg donated a used vehicle for police use, an important contribution that will aid the department’s work. Furthermore, an in-kind donation from Friends of the Rumsey Monument, Inc., valued at an estimated $15,000 to $20,000, will facilitate improvements at Rumsey Monument Park. These enhancements are set to include the addition of parking spaces, concrete pads for a bicycle rack and signage, and general landscaping upgrades.

The approved FY28 Operating Budget, prepared in accordance with state requirements, outlines a balanced financial plan with projected revenues and expenditures each totaling $3.03 million. This budget is slated for submission to the State and will be published in the Spirit newspaper in the coming weeks. The FY27 budget emphasizes fiscal responsibility, ensuring essential operations are fully funded and a contingency reserve is maintained. It reflects conservative financial projections while continuing to support core town priorities such as public safety, public works, community engagement, and the ongoing modernization of governmental operations. Residents can expect these initiatives to be supported by the town’s financial planning, with the budget reflecting investments in public services and community development.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Shepherdstown West Virginia

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