Home Rule In West Virginia

Several Mountain State communities are lining up for slots in next year's pilot project allowing increased autonomy (and tax-generating authority) for municipalities.

As both the Herald-Dispatch and Public Broadcasting (with audio) report, Huntington is hoping home rule will help it tackle some of its more chronic problems. The newspaper also offers an explanation of the pilot program approved by the Legislature earlier this year.

Charleston is weighing taking part as well, though Mayor Danny Jones entered the debate Monday "by declaring his opposition to a possible personal income tax," The Charleston Gazette reports. City Council, meanwhile, may submit the issue to voters, the Gazette also reports.