Morgantown election results reveal new council members and ballot initiative outcomes

The Morgantown City Council meeting on May 6, 2025, focused on the recent municipal election results and upcoming legislative changes. A total of 1,924 ballots were cast in the election held on April 28, with Mark Downs elected as the representative for the Sixth Ward. Jody Hollingshead and Jenny Celine secured their positions in the Second and Fourth Wards, respectively.

In addition to the council elections, voters considered two ballot initiatives. The first initiative, which proposed a charter amendment allowing the city council to approve the city manager residing outside the city, was rejected by a significant majority. The vote count was 1,412 against and 429 in favor. The second initiative concerned the repeal of ordinance number 2024-29, related to camping on public property. Residents also voted against the repeal, with 986 voting no and 905 voting yes.

The meeting also highlighted the hard work of poll workers and city staff during the election process. Acknowledgment was given to various departments, including public works and IT, for their contributions to the election's success.

Looking ahead, the council discussed several legislative items following the conclusion of the state legislative session. One proposal includes expanding safe haven sites to include the public safety building. Additionally, a new law will prevent charging parking fees for disabled veterans and Purple Heart recipients, with plans to present an ordinance to codify these exemptions. Another law will create exceptions for home-based businesses regarding permitting and tax requirements, which the council aims to implement before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to community engagement through the election process and responsiveness to new legislative requirements.