REGULAR MEETING CITY COUNCIL PRINCETON, MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA - City of Princeton WV
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REGULAR MEETING ~ CITY COUNCIL
PRINCETON, MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA
June 14, 2021
A Regular Meeting of the Common Council for the City of Princeton, Mercer County,
West Virginia was held in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 800 Bee
Street, Princeton, WV, on Monday, June 14, 2021, at 6:30 p.m. In attendance were
Mayor David Graham; Vice Mayor James Harvey; Council Members Marshall Lytton,
James Hill, Jacqueline Rucker, Dewey Russell and Joseph Allen; Acting City Attorney
Trent Crewe and City Clerk Kenneth Clay. Absent were City Manager Michael Webb
and City Attorney Paul Cassell. A quorum was constituted thereby.
I. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor David Graham expressed thanksgiving for the declining Covid-19 cases that had
enabled City Council to meet in person once again; offered thanksgiving for the
successful completion of the City Election; offered a prayer for the protection of all first
responders and City employees and invoked divine guidance for the conduct of the City
Council meeting.
Council Member Joseph Allen led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United
States of America.
II. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Graham called the meeting to order.
III. PROCLAMATIONS ~PRESENTATIONS
There were no proclamations or presentations.
IV. PUBLIC INPUT
A. PUBLIC HEARING – The USDA Rural Housing Service has received an
application for Federal Assistance from the City of Princeton. The
proposed project consists of the purchase of an excavator for the Public
Works Department. The purpose of this hearing is to provide information
to the public regarding this project and to comment on the economic and
environmental impacts, service area or alternatives to the project.
Mayor Graham moved City Council into a public hearing at 6:32 p.m. on the foregoing
proposal and called for any questions or comments from the public.
At the request of Mayor Graham, Public Works Director Jackie Phillips explained that
the excavator will enhance the quality and effectiveness of his department’s work and,
with the addition of a boom, also enable the completion of various other jobs which have
been previously unattainable.
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There being no further comments, Mayor Graham closed the public hearing at 6:35 p.m.
B. PUBLIC HEARING – The USDA Rural Housing Service has received an
application for Federal assistance from the City of Princeton. The
proposed project consists of the purchase of emergency equipment
(defibrillator / monitor) for the Fire Department. The purpose of this
hearing is to provide information to the public regarding this project and
to comment on the economic and environmental impacts, service area or
alternatives to the project.
Mayor Graham moved City Council into public hearing at 6:35 p.m. on the foregoing
proposal and called for any questions or comments from the public.
In response to a request by Council Member James Hill, Fire Chief Chad Bailey
explained that this new defibrillator would be more effective in reviving EMS patients
than the current unit in use, which is fifteen years old.
There being no further comments, Mayor Graham closed he public hearing at 6:37 p.m.
V. CONSENT AGENDA
Without correction, Mayor David Graham deemed the Consent Agenda approved and
committed the record, as follows:
Minutes of the May 10, 2021, Regular City Council Meeting.
VI. POLICY AGENDA
A. COMMITTEE REPORTS
1. PUBLIC WORKS AND RECREATION
Chairperson Jacqueline Rucker reported that the Public Works and Recreation Committee
of Princeton City Council met on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, with the following items to
report out to City Council for action or as information:
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Mrs. Rucker reported on behalf of the Public Works Department as follows:
Monthly Report for May – Public Works crews continued their regular duties of
keeping storm drains and inlets cleaned, picking up and returning shopping carts,
miscellaneous trash and debris removal, and upkeep of city road signage. Crews also
performed 28 Service Order Requests from residents in May.
Mr. Phillips also reported the Public Works Department had been working short-handed
with a number of employees off on vacation during the months of May and June.
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Capital Paving Jobs – The following paving jobs continue in the planning stage:
1. Mill and pave Westview Ave.
2. Mill and pave Karnes St.
3. Mill and pave the steep side of Lilly St. (try to put slip resistant surface back
down) and repair the large “hump” in Park Avenue at the base of Lilly St.
4. Mill and pave Fink St.
5. Mill and pave easternmost section of Christie and Cove St.
6. Pave Beam Street
7. Self perform paving on the Bacardi Loop.
Sidewalk Work Needed:
Public Works will be seeking some cost information from a specialty company,
Precision Safe Sidewalks, to possibly remediate several areas where trip hazards
exist.
Rogers Street Storm Water Project Agreement re: Region I Planning and
Development Council – Jacqueline Rucker reported the Public Works and Recreation
Committee approved and recommended to City Council, and she so moved, approval of
an Administrative Services Agreement with Region I Planning and Development Council
for the administration and management of the Rogers Street Storm Water/Flood Control
Project on behalf of the City of Princeton.
James Hill duly seconded the motion.
Mr. Hill requested an explanation of the motion for the public’s benefit.
Mayor Graham explained that due to major flooding along Rogers Street the City now
has the financing to put a flood control project out to bid that will include the laying of a
storm drainage line with eight drops from the Pepsi Plant to Locust Street.
Mr. Hill added that another drainage line will cross over to Davey Fork.
Mayor Graham continued by explaining the project is being designed now and the work
will not disturb the roadway in any way. Per the aforementioned agreement, Region I
will manage the entire project on behalf of the City of Princeton.
On voting, the motion carried unanimously.
Letters of Conditions in re: Two USDA Rural Development Service Grants – Mrs.
Rucker reported that the Public Works and Recreation Committee approved and
recommended to City Council, and she so moved, authorization for City Manager Mike
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Webb to sign Letters of Conditions required for two USDA RDS grants, thereby enabling
the purchase of an excavator for the Public Works Department and a defibrillator /
monitor for the Princeton Fire Department.
Council Member and Vice Mayor James Harvey duly seconded the motion.
The motion carried unanimously.
PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Chairperson Jacqueline Rucker presented the following report on behalf of Park and
Recreation Director Amanda McCabe:
Mini-Minor Basketball League – Registration ended on June 9th for the Mini-Minor
basketball league for boys and girls ages 4 through 8 years. The last few years the
League averaged 100-125 kids. As of June 8th, there were 74 mini kids and 79 minor
kids signed up, totalling 153 participants. The teams will begin practicing within the
week and games will begin in July.
Summer Day Camp – The Summer Day Camp Program began on Monday, June 7th.
The program has started off really well with 33 kids pre-registered. So far the camp is
averaging 15-20 kids per day.
Seasonal Jobs – The Department has hired two seasonal maintenance employees, two
Recreation Center employees and 22 City Pool employees. The Recreation Center still is
very short staffed. Also, we are hoping to hire additional lifeguards. Currently, there are
only 10 lifeguards on staff.
City Pool – The City Pool opened on Saturday, June 5th and had a nice, warm opening
weekend. Saturday, the pool had 221 swimmers and Sunday there were 102. Private
rentals are available from 6:00 to 9:00 pm. and are booking up very quickly. Night Swim
events have been scheduled for every other Tuesday throughout the months of June and
July. The first Night Swim is scheduled for next Tuesday, June 15, from 6-9 p.m. Night
Swims include open swim time, games, prizes and a live D.J.
Appointments to the Park and Recreation Board – Mrs. Rucker reported that, on the
information and recommendation of City Council and Park and Recreation Board
Member, Joe Allen, the Public Works and Recreation Committee approved and
recommended to City Council the appointment of the following individuals to the Board
of Park and Recreation Commissioners, and she so moved:
1. Debbie Ball, 1102 South 9th Street, Princeton, WV – to complete an unexpired term
through May 18, 2025, and
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2. Floyd Ricks, 1606 West Main Street, Princeton, WV – to complete an unexpired
term through May 18, 2024.
Joe Allen duly seconded the motion.
Mr. Allen commented that he had known both individuals for a long time and explained
that both had been good athletes and a credit to their community.
James Hill described Ms. Ball and Mr. Ricks as two very good appointments.
On voting, the motion carried unanimously.
RAILROAD MUSEUM
Director Pat Smith remarked that it will be great to open the Railroad Museum on July 1st
after being closed for 13 months. She also expressed regret on hearing that Council
Member James Harvey would be leaving City Council at the end of June.
Ms. Smith continued by commenting that although the Railroad Museum had been
closed, a lot of things were going on, including 18 RV’s parked at he Museum in May,
with many of the owners receiving a tour of the Railroad Museum. Also, the senior
citizens from the Commission on Aging have been using the Museum for meetings and
tomorrow the travelers in four RV’s are scheduled to stop and also will receive tours.
Pat Smith advised of receiving a grant from the Southwestern West Virginia Action
Council which she relied upon to hire another new employee. In addition, Kaye Williams
continues working fulltime at both the Railroad and Agricultural Museums.
Ms. Smith then reported that on October 2nd this year the Railroad Museum will sponsor
and hold a celebration for the 15th birthday of the Railroad Museum.
Mr. Hill commented that since the Wayfinding Sign Project is back on track it should aid
in directing travelers to the Railroad Museum. However, he recommended that a sign is
needed at S. 2nd Street to direct people to the Museum.
Public Works Director Jackie Phillips remarked that a sign on 2nd Street notifying that the
Museum is straight ahead would be a quick fix in the meantime.
2. PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
Chairman James Hill reported the Public Safety Committee met after the Public Works
and Recreation Committee on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, with the following items to
report out to Council for action or as information:
CODE ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT
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Monthly Report for May 2021 – Chairman Hill presented the following report on behalf
of Code Enforcement Director Ty Smith:
COMPUTATION OF COMPLAINTS
Summary – Property Maintenance
Initial Complaints 377
Cumulative Complaints to Date – 40,683
Demolition/Renovation Programs Status
Condemnations/Unsafe in Process 2
Demolitions in Process (out for bid) 0
Demolitions w/Notice to Proceed 2
Total Demolitions to Date 685
Animal Control & Property Maintenance
Complaints this Month 121
Animal Control Cases 43
Impounded (dogs 6; cats 13; other 0) 19
Adopted 0
Euthanized 0
Reclaimed 4
Rescued 0
Property Maintenance Cases 78
(Melissa Meachum collected $900 in abatement costs in May.)
Ms. Meachum also is studying for the B-1 exam.
Build Inspection (Zoning, PM, RC)
Building Permits (Res. 22; Com. 12) 34
Total Inspections 18
Total Project Costs $360,044.88
Permit Fees $2,918.00
Flood Plain Management & Property Maintenance
Flood Plain Determinations 34
Flood Plain Permits Issue 1
New Flood Plain Mapping will be completed by FEMA by 2023 with all new
program data, including information on the county’s flood control dams.
Ben Love currently is preparing for the PM-64 Exam
Zoning Official
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Certificate of Occupancy Applications: 2
Certificate of Occupancy Inspections: 1
Zoning Board Cases: 1
Rental Compliance
Revenue in May $350; Total to Date: $14,123.50
Registered Units May: Houses 7; Apts. 0; Total Units 7
Cumulative Total: Houses 316; Apts. 506; Other 67; Total 899
Vacant Buildings
Registered Vacant Buildings in May 0; Total 15.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Call Report – Fire Chief Chad Bailey reported that during the month of May, the Fire
Department responded to 87 EMS calls and 44 fire calls; conducted three inspections and
issued one certificate of occupancy. Chief Bailey explained that the 44 fire calls equated
to five calls a day, which is the busiest the Fire Department has ever been for fire calls.
Personnel Update – Chief Bailey continued by reporting that the Fire Department’s new
hire, Firefighter Jonathan Franklin, is doing well and will test for his Firefighter I
certification tomorrow.
Boot Drive – Chief Bailey also reported that the Fire Department would conduct a Boot
Drive for the United Way in conjunction with WVNS-TV, on Friday, June 18th, that will
benefit local food banks directly.
Grant Application – The Fire Chief reported the Fire Department would be applying for
a West Virginia Water Company Grant again this year to assist in purchasing equipment
for the Department.
Promotional Exams – Chief Bailey lastly report that the Firemen’s Civil Service
Commission would be administering promotional exams the evening of June 16th for
leadership positions in the Fire Department.
As he concluded his report, Fire Chief Chad Bailey thanked City Council for 26 great
years with the City of Princeton Fire Department.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Update on Officers at the Police Academy – Police Chief Tim Gray reported that two
officers had begun their certification training at the State Police Academy a week ago
Monday. However, one had to withdraw due to a medical emergency and currently is
under medical evaluation before being cleared to return to duty with the Department.
CC-06/14/21Page 8 Testing for Patrolman Position – Chief Gray reported that the Policemen’s Civil Service Commission would be advertising for potential new hires this month and into July. Thereafter, the Civil Service Commission will supervise both physical ability and written exams on Saturday, July 17th, in the morning and afternoon, respectively. Grant Application – Chief Gray reported that he would be submitting an application to the Shott Foundation for a grant to fund the purchase of ten body cameras. He also informed that a representative from Watch Guard would be demonstrating the cameras for the Police Department to familiarize the officers with their use. New K-9 Unit – Chief Gray continued by reporting that Cole Automall had contacted him with an offer to fund a new K-9 unit for the Police Department. The Chief explained that the dog, a Malamute, had been purchased and was currently in training before being returned to the Department to link up with assigned partner, Officer James Carroll. This brings the total number of K-9 units at the Princeton PD to four the Chief reported. Food Truck Frenzy – The Police Chief reported that his department would be involved in policing the Food Truck Frenzy at the Mathena Center of Saturday, June 26th, which will be an all day event. Passing of Former Princeton Officer M. B. Gergely – Chief Gray informed the City Council of the recent death in Florida of former Police Officer Mary Beth Gergely who had passed due to complications related to cancer. The Chief described Ms. Gergely as an excellent officer during her time with the Princeton Police Department. PD’s Bike Patrol - Council Member James Hill made note of the Bicycle Patrol’s active role during the first installment of the Cruise In event in May. He also remarked as to how much traffic had backed up at times, but a peaceful and enjoyable atmosphere was maintained throughout that Saturday evening. Shooting Incident – On inquiry, Chief Gray explained that he did not have any information regarding a recent shooting that occurred outside the Princeton PD’s jurisdiction, but noted that the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department did an excellent job in investigating the incident which involved two different shooters. 3. FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE Vice Mayor and Finance Committee Member James Harvey reported the Finance and Administration Committee of Princeton City Council met on Wednesday, June 9, 2021, immediately following the Public Safety Committee, with the following items to report out to Council for action or as information: FINANCE DEPARTMENT May 2021, Financial Report – Finance Director Danny Dillow reported that as of end of CC-06/14/21
Page 9
May, the eleventh month of FY2021, the actual revenues collected stood at 93.83% of the
budgeted amount, while actual appropriations were expended at a rate of 84.24%, as
compared to the budget projections of 91.67% forecast for the end of May. Total funds
available for City operations at the end of May were $2,399,894.
Noteworthy Expenditures for May:
Fredeking-Stafford Construction . . . . . . .$14,900
WV Division of Highways . . . . . . . . . .$40,000
PEIA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $52,855
Mr. Harvey further reported the Finance and Administration Committee approved and
recommended the May, 2021, Financial Reports to City Council, and he so moved.
Marshall Lytton duly seconded the motion.
The motion carried unanimously.
FY2021 General Fund Budget Revision #5 – The Finance Director continued by
reporting that Budget Revision #5 to the FY2021 General Fund is required to appropriate
additional, expected revenue to correct fund balances for unappropriated funds in prior
year. Furthermore, the additional funds need to be allocated to funds showing an actual
deficit in the accounting records. This revision will increase estimated revenue by
$730,750 and bring the FY2021 General Fund Budget to $10,131,416.
Expenditure adjustments include the following:
Increase in Economic Development fund for contributions received and paid
Appropriate for under budgeted Salaries and Wages (multiple funds)
Appropriate for additional expenses for printing materials (multiple funds)
Appropriate for additional legal expenses
Appropriate for additional City Hall expenses (maintenance, services & supplies)
Appropriate for approved capital improvement transfer
Appropriate for additional Police Dept. expenses (including an additional lease
payment)
Appropriate for additional expenses for Utilities and Materials and Supplies for
multiple funds
Appropriate for additional Fire Dept. expenses (maintenance, supplies, and
improvements)
Appropriate for additional capital purchases (multiple funds)
Appropriate for additional allocations to both Library and Parks and Recreation
Appropriate for additional CIC expenses
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Total revisions increase the General Fund Expenditures Budget by $730,750, bringing the
total General Fund appropriations for FY2021 to $10,131,416, thereby creating a
balanced budget.
Mr. Harvey continued by reporting the Finance and Administration approved and
recommended Budget Revision #5 for the FY2021 General Fund to City Council, and he
so moved.
Jacqueline Rucker duly seconded the motion.
The motion carried unanimously.
Resolution in re: American Rescue Plan Act Funds – Finance Director Danny Dillow
reported that the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended to
City Council a blanket resolution authorizing him to drawdown the American Rescue
Plan Act Funds and to sign any and all documents related thereto, including certification
of the City’s compliance with Title 6 and Corona Virus requirements, as follows:
AUTHORIZING RESOLUTION
of the
Princeton City Council
WHEREAS, the City of Princeton, West Virginia has been designated to receive
American Rescue Plan Act Funds; and
WHEREAS, the Common Council of the City of Princeton must name an
authorized representative of the City of Princeton to drawdown said ARPA funds as
outlined by the U. S. Department of Treasury.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED THAT:
At a regular meeting of the Common Council of the City of Princeton, held on this
the 14th day of June, 2021, Danny Dillow, Finance Director for the City of Princeton, is
appointed as the duly authorized official of the City to act upon and sign on behalf of the
City of Princeton, any and all required federal and state actions as they relate to the
receipt of American Rescue Plan Act Funds.
Dated this the 14th day of June, 2021.
David E. Graham, Mayor
CC-06/14/21Page 11 Council Member James Hill inquired as to how much ARPA funding the City would be receiving. Mr. Dillow responded the City will receive $2.5 Million in ARPA funding. Mr. Harvey further reported that the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended to City Council, and he so moved, adoption of a resolution authorizing Finance Director Danny Dillow to sign all documents related to the drawdown and administration of American Rescue Plan Act funds. Marshall Lytton duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. Dates for the July 2021, City Council Meetings – Mr. Dillow explained that additional time was required for him to transition the City’s accounts from FY2021 to FY2022 and, therefore, requested the dates for Councils meetings in July be pushed back a week to Wednesday, July 14th, for Council’s Committees and to Monday, July 19th, for the regular Council meeting. MOTION: Dewey Russell moved that City Council’s meetings in July be pushed back a week to Wednesday, July 14th, for the Committees and to Monday, July 19th, for the regular Council meeting. James Hill duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. Dates for the August 2021, City Council Meetings – Mr. Dillow also requested, due to a conflict with the dates of the WV Municipal League’s Annual Conference, that Council’s meeting dates be rolled back a week in August to Wednesday, August 11th, for the Committees and Monday, August 16th, for the regular Council meeting. MOTION: James Harvey moved that City Council’s meetings in August be rolled back a week to Wednesday, August 11th, for the Committees, and to Monday, August 16th, for the regular City Council meeting. Jacqueline Rucker duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. Special Organizational Council Meeting – Mr. Harvey reported the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended to City Council, and he so CC-06/14/21
Page 12 moved, the scheduling of a Special Council Meeting for July 1, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. to seat the four Ward Council Members-Elect and organize Council for the upcoming 2021-22 Term. James Hill duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. B. & O. Tax Incentive Application – Finance Director Danny Dillow reported the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended to City Council approval of the following business for the one-year B. & O. Tax Incentive for new businesses. Mr. Dillow further explained that, based on the owner applying anew on behalf of the LLC, the business qualifies as a first time applicant. The Oasis Beauty Bar & Boutique, LLC – 1307 Mercer St. – Karry Williams, Owner MOTION: James Harvey moved City Council approve the business, The Oasis Beauty Bar & Boutique, LLC, for the one-year B. & O. Tax Incentive. Jacqueline Rucker duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. Wayfinding Signs – Mr. Harvey reported the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended to City Council, and he so moved, the expenditure of $34,712.28 for the materials, fabrication and installation of 12 Wayfinding Signs directing travelers to important destinations in the City of Princeton. James Hill duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously. PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY Finance Committee Chairman Marshall Lytton presented the following Library Report on behalf of Director Sheena Johnson: Summer Fun Events – June 2021 Your Favorite Things Dream Catcher, June 2nd – Drop by and pick up a grab and go bag with a 3D printed ring to make a dream catcher decorated with your favorite things. Desk Pet, June 3rd @ 11 am – Have you ever wanted a pet but you just can’t have one? Well, now you can have a low maintenance pet that will liven up even the most humdrum desk. Pet, care supplies, and a how-to tutorial will be provided by the Library. CC-06/14/21
Page 13 Banned Book Club, June 17th, 3:30 p.m. – This month we will be reading The Giver by Lois Lowry. The Giver is written from the point of view of Jonas, an eleven-year old boy living in a futuristic society that has eliminated all pain, fear, war, and hatred. This book includes the mentioning of sex, infanticide, suicide, starvation, and euthanasia in order to show the power of the book’s main themes of suffering and individuality. Build Your Cat a Castle, June 29 @ 2:00 p.m. – Join us as we celebrate all cats by building you cat a unique, decorative castle. By using cardboard boxes, and a little craft power, we will create beautiful castles for you to take home to your fury friends. This event is in person and sign up is required. All ages welcome. Other Special Offerings Shadow Wings, June 7th @ 10 am – By using cardboard and colored cellophane, you can make your own beautiful butterfly wings. Join us in this fun way to transform yourself into a butterfly. All materials will be provided. Sign up is required. Father’s Day Craft Pack, June 14th – We’ve put together a special craft packet so you can show your father how thankful you are for all that he does for you. Available while supplies last. Tiny Seed Packets, June 14th @ 3 pm – Join us as we decorate our own tiny seed packets and then top it off with a spoonful of wildflower seeds. Materials will be provided. Sign up is required. Pressed Flower Bookmark, June 18th @ 3 pm – You can enjoy your favorite flower much longer by making pressed flower bookmarks. Come to the Library and enjoy making your own bookmark. This event will be set up in the large meeting room and all materials will be provided by the Library. Butterfly Bombs, June 22nd @ 1 pm – Help make a friendly habitat for monarch butterflies by making and planting a butterfly bomb. Sign up is required. Beekeeping 101, June 26th @ 10 am – This is part one of a four part adult program which teaches how to bee keep at home. This program will be instructed by Will Lambert from Blue Ridge Bee Company and will take place in person in the Library. Preregistration is required for this event and attendees should plan to attend every session. Regular Monthly Programs Drop in Tech Time, June 15th and 29th @ 2 p.m. – Need help setting up your WV Reads account? Navigating your new device? Come to the Library to meet in person with our Tech to guide you through your techy questions. CC-06/14/21
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D&D 5th Edition, June 15th @ 3 p.m. – Princeton Public Library will be hosting in
person 5th Edition Dungeons & Dragons gaming sessions. Please contact the Library for
details.
Cinema Society, June 8th @ 3 p.m. – This month’s discussion will be about the 2005
Rian Johnson film, Brick. Brendan Frye, a high school student who, after learning a note
directing him to a pay phone, received a worrisome call from his ex-girlfriend, Emily
Kostich. The fill follows Brendan as he tries to piece together what happened to Emily.
The DVD is currently available at the Library.
Life Lessons Book Club, June 23rd @ 11 a.m. – Join us for the discussion of Never
Caught: The Washingtons’ Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave, Ona Judge by
Erica Armstrong Dunbar. A powerful tale of how Ona risked everything to gain freedom
from the famous founding father and most powerful man in the United States at the time.
Our regularly scheduled Story Times are on Facebook Live on Fridays with the inclusion
of a Friday craft every week with tutorial, and materials provided for pick up at the
Library.
As always, please visit the Library’s on-line calendar for more details on events and for
available Zoom links. Also, please join the Library’s You Tube Videos and Facebook
Live Feeds online.
COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT COMMISSION
Mr. Harvey presented the following report on behalf of the Community Improvement
Commission:
The CIC approved the Beautification Grant application of Mr. Wyatt Lilly of
Cheap Thrills Records on Stafford Drive for $2,000, for pressure washing and
painting the building’s exterior, painting of a mural and for the cost of labor and
materials.
CIC also approved the Beautification Grant application of Anthony and Maxine
Johnson of Appalachian Artistic Adventures at 850 Mercer Street for $593.00, for
an overhanging sidewalk sign intended to advertise the business and attract people
traveling on Mercer Street.
The CIC members continued planning for the acquisition of Christmas
decorations by the end of June that will include multi-colored lights of red, blue,
green and yellow for the strands of lights overhanging Mercer Street and to also
order new, snowflake decorations for the utility poles.
Received a report that wooden flower boxes approved by the CIC had been placed
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at various locations in the commercial districts along Mercer Street , Thorn and
Rogers Streets, as well as Stafford Drive. The Flower Committee reported the
flowers should be coming into full bloom this month.
Lastly, the CIC discussed the ordering and fabrication of additional and ever
popular metal flowers for placing throughout the business districts and along
major thoroughfares in the City.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Acting City Attorney Trent Crewe presented the following ordinance for a second
reading, by title, and public hearing:
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ARTICLE 1345, “DISTRICT USES,” AND
ARTICLE 1345.01, “ZONING SCHEDULE OF USE CONTROLS,” OF THE
CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF PRINCETON, WEST
VIRGINIA; TO-WIT: TO ADD MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARIES AS
A PERMITTED USE IN THE COMMERICAL (C-2) ZONE.
PUBLIC HEARING
Mayor David Graham moved City Council into public hearing at 7:26 p.m. and called for
comments or questions regarding the proposed ordinance.
There were no comments forthcoming. Therefore, Mayor Graham declared the public
hearing closed and reconvened the Regular Meeting.
MOTION: Vice Mayor James Harvey moved City Council adopt the ordinance as
presented on second reading.
Jacqueline Rucker duly seconded the motion.
Council Member James Hill commented that the ordinance complies with all State laws
enacted regarding Medical Marijuana Dispensaries.
Mayor Graham explained that the City’s C-2 Zoning District consists primarily of
Stafford Drive and Rogers Street.
On voting, the motion to adopt the ordinance carried unanimously.
C. CITY MANAGER
City Manager Mike Webb thanked everyone for coming out to the Council meeting and
commented as the amount of business coming before Council of late. He also
acknowledged Mr. Hawkins as the newest Council Member and welcomed him and
welcomed the re-elected ward incumbents back to Council. Mr. Webb then wished
CC-06/14/21Page 16 departing Council Member Jim Harvey well and commented that he would be missed. D. CITY CLERK City Clerk Kenneth Clay thanked City Council Members for their support and guidance during the recently completed City Council Ward Election. Councilman James Hill commented that he would not be in favor of incorporating the City’s elections within the State and County elections out of a concern the City issues would become lost among the County and State issues on the ballot. Councilman Dewey Russell remarked that he was pleased to have Council Member-Elect James Hawkins and his wife present for the meeting. Mr. Russell also acknowledged Mr. Harvey’s wife who was present and added that Mr. Harvey would be missed on City Council. He then acknowledged that Mr. Hawkins had run a good race in gaining election as the Ward III City Council Member. E. HUMAN RESOURCES Human Resources Director Brian Blankenship informed that Council Members and staff who desired to attend the West Virginia Municipal League’s Annual Conference in August to email him with the essential details required in making their reservations. VII. COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE Dewey Russell – Mr. Russell commented that he was glad to be back in Council Chambers and see familiar faces again. He acknowledged Mayor Pat Wilson in the audience, welcomed her and remarked that he was proud to see her present for the Council meeting. Mr. Russell also expressed that he was glad to everyone out for the Council meeting. Marshall Lytton – Mr. Lytton also recognized Pat Wilson and acknowledged her accomplishments during her time as Mayor of Princeton. Mr. Lytton also welcomed Ward III Council Member-Elect James Hawkins to Council. He followed by expressing regret at Fire Chief Chad Bailey’s departure from the City and added that was something he did not want to hear and thanked Chief Bailey for 26 years of service to the citizens of Princeton. Mr. Lytton expressed to James Harvey that it had been a pleasure serving with him on Council the last eight years, urged Mr. Harvey to enjoy himself and thanked him for a job well done. Lastly, Mr. Lytton thanked City Clerk Kenneth Clay for his work in relation to the City Election of June 1, 2021. CC-06/14/21
Page 17 Jacqueline Rucker – Mrs. Rucker commented that she was in agreement with the comments of the gentlemen who preceded her in the Roundtable. She continued by thanking Pat Wilson for her time as Mayor and Council Member on the Princeton City Council. Mrs. Rucker then thanked retiring Fire Chief, Chad Bailey, for his 26 years of dedicated service to the City of Princeton, expressed that she would miss Mr. Harvey on City Council and advised him to have a nice time in retirement. Next, Council Member Rucker congratulated Mr. Hawkins on his election to City Council and welcomed him to Council. Mrs. Rucker acknowledged Railroad Museum Director Pat Smith and remarked that she was glad the Railroad Museum was opening July 1st and commented that Library Director Sheena Johnson was doing an excellent job at the Library. James Harvey – Mr. Harvey congratulated Marshall Lytton, Joe Allen and Jackie Rucker on their re-election to City Council and James Hawkins for winning election to the Ward III Council seat. Mr. Harvey acknowledged the wives that were present for the Council meeting and informed that tomorrow he and his wife would be celebrating their 52nd anniversary. James Hill – Council Member Hill commented that when he came on Council Mr. Harvey said that he would be one of seven and now he is pleased to call Mr. Harvey a good friend. He added that a lot has happened over the past eight years, many changes have taken place for the good, but Jim Harvey’s presence on Council will be missed, Mr. Hill remarked. Mr. Hill expressed “best wishes” to retiring Fire Chief Chad Bailey, thanked him for his time on the Fire Department in which a lot of strides had been made and noted how well all Council Members work together for the citizens of Princeton. Mr. Hill expressed that the Princeton Fire Department has fire engines and equipment which is second to none as evidenced by a Class II ISO rating, one of six fire departments in the State of West Virginia with the rating. Lastly, Mr. Hill acknowledged that the Stafford Drive flooding had been curbed while Mr. Harvey was on Council and through Mr. Harvey’s support and guidance. Joe Allen – Council Member Joe Allen thanked all the guests for coming out to the Council meeting and remarked that the City’s department heads and employees make it happen for the City. CC-06/14/21
Page 18 Mr. Allen thanked Fire Chief Chad Bailey for his service to the citizens of Princeton by making the Princeton Fire Department the best in the State and expressed his belief that Chad would do well in any endeavor. Mr. Allen welcomed Pat Wilson back to the City and to the City Council meeting. Next Councilman Allen thanked Mr. Harvey for his able service on City Council and also for the support and guidance Mr. Harvey had given him during the past year. Mayor David Graham – Mayor Graham thanked everyone for attending the meeting tonight and expressed that it was wonderful to meet as City Council in a public forum once again. The Mayor thanked Mr. Harvey for his service to the citizens of Princeton and for being his right arm as Vice Mayor. Mayor Graham acknowledged Pat Wilson’s presence, expressed that it was good to have her back in Princeton and attending the Council meeting and thanked her for what she had done for the City of Princeton while on the Council. The Mayor congratulated James Hawkins as the Council Member Elect-from Ward III and welcomed him as a member of Council. Lastly, Mayor Graham addressed Fire Chief Chad Bailey by commenting that he would be missed, thanked Chief Bailey for his 26 years of service to the City and acknowledged that it would be difficult to replace him. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, on motion, the June 14, 2021, meeting of the Princeton City Council adjourned at 7:45 p.m.
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