The Wetzel-Tyler Board of Health approved moving the health department from Paden City to New Martinsville, where a new building will be constructed.

By a 2-1 vote the Wetzel-Tyler County Health Department Board voted to purchase property in New Martinsville and construct a new facility. The department is currently leasing space in Paden City from the PC Development Authority and will remain in that location until construction is complete.

Board President Larry Lemon said the owners of the proposed property must go through a process to accept the board’s offer to buy before the deal can be completed and construction can begin.

He added they will inform both county commissions of the status of the transaction.

The decision to relocate from Paden City to New Martinsville, was decided on Thursday, March 6, 2025 at the Departments office in Paden City, following presentations by three entities interested in providing locations for the new location

The locations under consideration included a seven-lot lot site in Paden City at the corner of Route 2 and East Main Street. Property owned by and located next to the United Methodist Church in new Martinsville; and property owned by the Wetzel County Commission adjacent to the Wetzel County Hospital.

Cork Bowen, President of the Paden City Development Authority made a case for keeping the health department in Paden City. Bowen proposed the property commonly known as Pineapple Park, as the ideal site for the new facility. He also informed the board that he had a signed agreement from the property owner confirming a willingness to sell. He cited several reasons why Paden City would be a prime location including the availability of the seven lots at $20,000 per lot, easy and safe access through the traffic light at the corner, and a central location that would better serve the area’s aging population.

Additionally Bowen referenced data from the West Virginia Division of Highways which indicates that approximately 4,600 vehicles pass by the property daily. He also noted that a Phase 1 environmental assessment has been completed, revealing no environmental concerns, and that all necessary utilities are currently in place.

Speaking in favor of the hospital’s adjacent location, Bengy Swanson administration assistant for the Wetzel County commission informed the board that WVU medicine is interested in the site for the construction of a 15,000-square-foot facility. Under the proposed plan WVU medicine would utilize approximately 10,000 square feet, leaving 5000 square feet available for the health department’s needs with an option to rent additional space.

One advantage of this location would be its close proximity to the hospital, which could provide convenient access to medical services. Additionally, the Wetzel County Commission would take ownership of the property and assume responsibility for all costs including environmental assessments. The health department would lease space from the county potentially reducing financial strain. However, a significant drawback to this proposal is the extended timeline. The health department would likely have to wait two to three years before relocating, whereas other proposed sites may offer a quicker transition.

Speaking in support of the Methodist Church property was Jim Wobig. He highlighted several advantages of the site emphasizing that all utilities are already in place. While environmental studies were last completed in 2002 with no reported issues, an updated assessment would be required at the Methodist Church’s expense. Core samples have already been taken and the property is ready for construction.

The Methodist Church is offering the property as a community service gesture, at a cost of $125,000 recognizing the significant traffic the area receives from residents of Wetzel and Tyler Counties as well as Marshall, Pleasants, and Washington counties. Many individuals travel to the church to receive food, appliances, and furniture distributed through its outreach programs. The church also provides financial assistance for gas, groceries, and other necessities.

Wobig noted that the church regularly experiences an influx of people, particularly during the monthly Catholic Church food distribution event, which can bring in 150 to 200 cars. He stated the proximity to Walmart and other essential services would also benefit those seeking health department services. Additionally, the Methodist Church prioritizes health awareness and would be willing to collaborate with the health department on future initiatives.

Another advantage of this location is the availability of parking. The church has offered its parking lots for use in addition to the designated parking at the health department site.

Once the discussions were concluded an initial vote was held by a show of hands with the Methodist Church site receiving two votes, the Paden City site receiving one vote and the Property beside the hospital receiving none.

Voting in favor of relocating to New Martinsville by the Methodist Church were board members Carla McBee, and Tom Cooper, voting for the Paden City location was Eric Peters. The Board is made up of five members which also include Brent Gamble who was absent and Board President Larry Lemon who abstained from voting due to a possible conflict of interest.

Following the vote board member Eric Peters motioned for executive session to discuss financial considerations. No action was reported following the session.

Ed Parsons, contributed to this story