Buckhannon City Council advanced an ordinance to buy a long-abandoned property on Cleveland Avenue, capping the purchase price at $5,000 ahead of a final vote. Once the title is cleared, the city plans to obtain an asbestos certification and demolish the building.
State Sen. Robbie Morris says he opposes the proposed Valley North transmission line after hearing concerns from area residents. He urged opponents to submit comments before Aug. 14 and noted the PSC will make the final decision.
Get the latest news and event briefs in this edition of the Banter, featuring all the buzz in Buckhannon.
James “Jim” L. Harris, Sr., 92, of Buckhannon, WV, passed away on July 9, 2026, in Cambridge, Ohio. A Christian, Mason, Shriner and retired businessman, he will be deeply missed by his family and friends.
Dorothy Ann “Dotti” Eiker, 86, of Queens, WV, passed away peacefully on July 10, 2026. A lifelong horticulturist and devoted volunteer, she cherished her family, community, and the mountains of West Virginia.
Norman Howard Helmick, 56, of Buckhannon, WV, died on July 8, 2026, at WVU Medicine United Hospital Center in Bridgeport. He was a former truck driver and well tender.
West Virginia families can apply for the 2026 School Clothing Allowance starting July 20, with eligible children receiving $200 for school clothing. Applications close Aug. 15 or when funds run out.
West Virginia is pausing its SNAP Healthy Choices waiver after federal guidance tied to a court ruling. Sweetened, carbonated beverages are again eligible for SNAP purchase effective immediately.
Vandalia Health Davis Medical Center welcomes board-certified surgeon Steven Conkel, MD, MS, FACS, expanding access to advanced robotic, endocrine and breast surgery services close to home in Elkins.
Buckhannon Mayor Robbie Skinner was named to Generation Next’s 40 Under 40, recognizing his statewide leadership in community vitality, young professional retention and economic development.
The Fred W. Eberle Technical Center Administrative Council will meet Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the center in Buckhannon. The meeting will be held at 208 Morton Avenue.
Community Bulletin
Since joining Vandalia Health, the former Davis Health System has widened access across central West Virginia. Primary care remains the front door — now at five clinics, including Buckhannon Medical Care, backed by a 190-location network.
Upshur County commissioners will consider a resolution next week opposing the 765,000-volt Valley Link power line after residents packed Thursday’s meeting and none spoke in favor.
Buckhannon City Council approved buying a low-mileage 2016 pumper from Milton for $310,000 and splitting the cost with the Buckhannon Volunteer Fire Department — considerable savings over a new truck, which could cost more than $1 million.
