I had the opportunity to sit down with West Virginia State Delegate Bill Ridenour, who represents Jefferson County’s District 100. We had a thoughtful discussion on several key issues affecting both the state and our local community.

We addressed the topic of tax reciprocity, specifically regarding state income tax and personal property tax, and explored potential reforms that could better serve the interests of West Virginians. We also examined the increasing development of solar farms in the Eastern Panhandle and the broader implications of Virginia’s efforts to shut down its power plants while relying on West Virginia to provide the energy, allowing them to appear "green" at our expense. This shift could place a significant burden on our state, especially in the form of new high-rise transmission lines.

Tourism in Jefferson County was another important focus of our conversation, as was our shared pride and deep love for the state of West Virginia. Finally, we discussed the urgent need for healthcare reform to promote growth and improve access to quality medical services across the state.