The Shepherdstown Town Council held a special meeting on Thursday, March 19, to address several items related to community initiatives, donations, and the Town’s upcoming fiscal year budget.

The Town Council approved funding for cash prizes associated with the upcoming “Welcome to Shepherdstown” Banner Contest, building on previously approved funding for the production of new banners. The contest will invite local artists to contribute designs that reflect the Town’s character, culture, and identity.

In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Town Council also approved a request from the Eastern Panhandle Empowerment Center to display teal ribbons on town trees throughout April. This year marks the 25th-annual observance of the campaign, which aims to raise awareness and support survivors.

The Council approved several donations to support Town services and community improvements as well, including a $100 cash donation from the Women of the Moose to assist the Police Department with operational expenses, and the donation of a used vehicle from the City of Martinsburg for police use. 

Additionally, the Council accepted an in-kind contribution valued at approximately $15,000–$20,000 from the Friends of the Rumsey Monument, Inc., which will support improvements at Rumsey Monument Park, including parking spaces, concrete pads for a bicycle rack and signage, and landscaping enhancements.

Finally, the Town Council approved the proposed FY28 Operating Budget in the format as required by the State. The Operating budget outlines projected FY27 revenues of $3.03 million and expenditures of an equal amount for the upcoming fiscal year in accordance with state requirements. The Operational Budget will be submitted to the State and printed in the Spirit newspaper in the coming weeks as required by State law. 

The FY 2027 Operating Budget is balanced, fully funds essential operations, and maintains a responsible contingency reserve. Overall, the budget reflects conservative financial assumptions while continuing to support Town priorities, including public safety, public works, community engagement, and ongoing modernization of government operations.