Charles Town Commission Advances Courthouse Plans Amid Criticism
JCC raises impact fees as it moves toward securing $16M building bond; Commission defends $35M facility purchase, upgrade against critics
The Spirit of Jefferson | Thursday, June 12, 2025
The Spirit of Jefferson reports that the local commission in Charles Town is moving forward with plans to purchase two American Public University System buildings to facilitate a new courthouse and administrative facility. As part of this initiative, the commission voted to increase impact fees for new development, enabling them to secure a $16 million bond to fund the $23.552 million purchase. The decision has garnered criticism from local nonprofit watchdog groups questioning the financial implications and transparency of the decision-making process. Despite the concerns, county officials, including Administrator Edwina Benites, emphasize the need for more space and modernization to improve access to services for residents and reduce long-term costs.
