Harrison County Voters Approve $1.4 Million Annual Levy, Reject Historic Preservation Funding
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — Harrison County voters approved a countywide levy expected to generate approximately $1.4 million annually for public health services, libraries and community projects, while rejecting a separate funding proposal intended to support historic preservation organizations throughout the county.
The two proposals appeared on the November 3 general election ballot, giving voters an opportunity to decide whether to continue dedicated funding for community services and establish a new revenue source for local historical organizations.
The Community Health Organizations Levy received 72.42 percent voter support, comfortably exceeding the 60 percent approval threshold required for county excess levies.
The measure is expected to generate approximately $1.4 million annually over four fiscal years, beginning July 1, 2027, and continuing through June 30, 2031.
The Clarksburg-Harrison Health Department will receive the largest portion of the funding, approximately $900,000 annually, supporting public health programs and services throughout the county.
Three public libraries will also benefit, including the Clarksburg-based Lowe Public Library, Southern Area Public Library and Nutter Fort Public Library. Each is expected to receive approximately $10,000 annually.
The remaining funding, estimated at between $450,000 and $500,000 annually, will support the Harrison County Commission's special projects fund.
While the community health levy received overwhelming approval, a separate proposal supporting historic preservation organizations fell short.
The Historical Preservation Alliance Levy received 57.89 percent voter support, narrowly missing the required 60 percent threshold.
The proposal would have generated approximately $100,000 to $110,000 annually for 13 historical and cultural organizations throughout Harrison County.
Those organizations include the Clarksburg History Museum, Harrison County Historical Society, Waldomore Mansion, Fort New Salem, the Salem Depot, Lost Creek Depot, Jennings Randolph House and several other museums and preservation groups.
The proposed funding would have helped organizations maintain historic buildings, preserve local collections, support tourism and pursue improvements to their facilities.
Despite receiving support from a majority of voters, the measure could not be approved without reaching the required supermajority threshold.
The outcome leaves participating historical organizations continuing to rely on fundraising, private donations, grants and other sources of support for their operations and preservation efforts.
Harrison County's historical attractions play an important role in preserving the region's heritage, particularly in communities such as Clarksburg, Salem, Shinnston and Lost Creek.
The election results highlight differing outcomes for two proposals intended to support community organizations, with voters overwhelmingly approving funding for public health and community services while stopping short of authorizing a new dedicated revenue source for historic preservation.
The results reported on election night remain subject to the county's official canvass and certification process.
