In July 2025, the Jefferson County Commission voted to dissolve the Jefferson County Development Authority Board — a move that left many residents wondering what the county’s vision for economic development really is. In the absence of a clear strategy, we risk allowing speculation and politics to drive decisions that should be grounded in data.

So, I did what any policy-minded citizen might do: I ran the numbers.

As part of a graduate-level regional economics course, I conducted a full economic analysis of Jefferson County’s Arts, Entertainment and Recreation (AER) sector using employment and wage data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What I found was sobering — but not surprising. Between 2015 and 2024, Jefferson County lost AER jobs, even as the industry grew across West Virginia and the U.S. overall. In short, we’ve been falling behind while others move forward.

Using tools like location quotient and shift-share analysis, I confirmed that our AER sector is no longer a local strength — and not because the industry itself is weak. The problem lies in our inability to capitalize on our regional advantages: proximity to Loudoun County, a growing population, unique cultural assets and natural beauty that draws visitors from across the Mid-Atlantic.

But it’s not all bad news. Jefferson County has the raw materials for economic renewal. The Contemporary American Theater Festival brings in more than 14,000 attendees each summer. Harpers Ferry, Summit Point Raceway and Freedom’s Run already attract cultural tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. We also host more than 20 annual parades and community festivals. These are not just celebrations — they are economic opportunities.

Modest investments in infrastructure, marketing and support for small businesses could reverse Jefferson County’s decline in the AER sector. A $250,000 investment in promoting arts and culture could yield more than $1.4 million in seasonal tourism spending, just from CATF alone. Supporting creative entrepreneurs, updating recreation facilities and coordinating across municipalities would allow us to grow jobs, increase local income and strengthen our tax base, without chasing big industry.

This is not to say we don’t need industry. But we must diversify. We’ve seen what happens when a community puts all its eggs in one economic basket. The AER sector, by contrast, supports many small employers, enhances quality of life and brings in outside dollars — all while preserving what makes Jefferson County special.

As the Jefferson County Commission works to restructure the Development Authority, I hope they appoint individuals who understand the importance of using data — not just guesswork — to guide decisions that affect all of us. We owe it to the people of Jefferson County to make smart, evidence-based investments in our future.

If anyone would like to read my full report, I’m happy to share it.

Donna Joy, of Shepherdstown, is in her second term on the Jefferson County Board of Education. Her comments are personal, and do not represent the Jefferson County Board of Education as a whole. She can be reached at aumpeace@msn.com.