The Tyler County Commission convened Friday, August 8, at the senior center auditorium in Middlebourne for its regularly scheduled meeting. Commissioners quickly moved through routine business, including approval of the July 22 meeting minutes, the Fiduciary report, and Exonerations.

The first major item on the agenda was presented by E-911 Director Josh Folks, who brought forward a resignation letter from E-911 dispatcher Chris McGinnis. McGinnis is stepping down from his position effective August 12 to pursue a new job opportunity. The commission formally accepted his resignation.

Following that, Tom Cooper, Director of the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), addressed the commission with a request to approve documentation related to the Northwest West Virginia Transit Authority. Pleasants, Wetzel, Marshall, Doddridge and Tyler are all included in the transportation project. Each of those counties will also be asked to approve the Transit Authority document. Thanks went to Jill Ash and Tom Cooper for their efforts in spear heading the much needed transportation system in all counties. Tyler County Commission has pledged $50,000 to the project with the federal government matching those dollars. The minimum requirement is $38,000 and the hope is that all other counties will follow Tyler’s lead in pledges. The transportation project will provide two vehicles per county to transport those citizens in desperate need of transportation. Commissioners approved the request.

David Bland, a representative of the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades (IUPAT), appeared before the County Commissioners to share the organization’s mission and highlight opportunities for workforce development in the skilled trades. During the presentation, Bland explained that IUPAT represents a wide range of professions within the construction industry, including industrial, commercial and decorative painters, drywall finishers, glass workers, sign and display specialists, trade show workers, and floor covering installers. Emphasizing IUPAT’s commitment to building career pathways, Bland outlined the union’s robust apprenticeship programs designed to bring new workers into the trades and provide them with the skills needed for long-term, successful careers. As part of current hiring efforts, Bland announced that IUPAT is actively seeking to fill approximately 200 positions for hydro blasters, a high-demand role within the industrial sector. He encouraged anyone interested in pursuing a career with IUPAT to reach out directly to the organization for more information. Commissioners thanked Mr. Bland for his presentation.

Commissioner Mike Smith addressed the future of the county’s System for Award Management (SAM) administration. Speaking on behalf of Diana Mace, the current SAM administrator, Smith informed the board that discussions need to take place regarding the replacement of Mace in her current role. Mr. Smith stated that this needs to be pulled off Diana’s plate due to the amount of work required to ensure that the SAM number remains in place. Despite the conversation about a potential transition, Mace clarified that the county’s current SAM registration remains valid through June 2026. This ensures no immediate disruption to the county’s ability to apply for and manage federal funds, which rely on an active SAM registration. Commissioners approved moving forward to finding a new administrator.

Anne Wakeford, Coordination Biologist and Nate Taylor, representative for Wildlife Resources in District 6, approached the Tyler County Commission to propose a partnership with the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (DNR). The goal: to develop new public fishing and boating access points along the 77-mile stretch of Middle Island Creek. The proposal focused on three potential launch sites: the Jug Downstream Site, the Middlebourne Site, and the Tyler County Home Site. These locations would serve as designated areas for fishing and small watercraft use, aiming to boost outdoor recreation and tourism in the region. Commissioners decided to table the discussion until more detailed information and planning could be provided.

Commission Vice President Lance Hickman brought forward a set of appointments for the Solid Waste Authority Board. Hickman requested the approval of three individuals to help guide the board through the next several years. Anthony Campbell for a full term, set to run until June 30, 2028. Steven Weigle to fill an unexpired term ending June 30, 2026 replacing Brian Weigle, and William Roberts with a tern ending June 30, 2028. Commissioners approved all three appointments.

Assistant Prosecuting Attorney Kyle Elliott asked the commissioners to approve an oil and gas lease with Shenendoah Energy Partners. Commissioners approved signing the lease.

Commissioner Mike Smith then asked for approval for a job posting for a custodial position. Custodial duties will include the new courthouse and Magistrate building among other offices. Commissioners approve the job posting.

There was no one present for public comment and following the approval to pay the bills the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 AM. The next meeting of the Tyler County Commission is set for August 26 in the auditorium of the Senior Center in Middlebourne at 9:00 AM.