The Sistersville City Council met Monday evening, June 9, at the City Building to address a packed agenda ranging from fire department oversight and property demolitions to preparations for the city’s annual Picnic in the Park celebration and key equipment purchases.

Council members began by discussing the management structure of the Sistersville Volunteer Fire Department. While no formal action was taken, concerns were raised about communication and oversight. Councilman Tommy Gray expressed his wish that the fire chief attend council meetings as a department head and council agreed to revisit the topic at future meetings.

The council also received an update on the city’s efforts to demolish several long-vacant and unsafe properties. Five structures, located at 127 Cliff Street, 294 North Wells Street, 119 Russell Avenue, 112 McKinley Street, and 120 Virginia Street, are scheduled for demolition. The total cost of the project is $107,925, including $67,788 for necessary asbestos abatement.

Another key issue discussed was a $10,000 increase in the city’s insurance premium. City Recorder Meghan Keller explained that the insurance company issued the hike following a safety survey, which revealed the city does not currently have a safety board or conduct regular safety meetings. The insurer has indicated that rates could drop again if the city becomes compliant with safety standards.

Turning to Fourth of July festivities, the council approved the allocation of a $5,000 grant from the West Virginia Attorney General’s Office to support the fireworks display during this year’s Picnic in the Park event. With this funding, officials noted, the city now has sufficient contributions to cover the cost of the celebration, which will include music, food, family activities, and a fireworks finale.

Council also took action on the remaining municipal funds provided by the Tyler County Commission. The city still has $38,549, which must be allocated by June 30. After discussion, the council approved the purchase of several items with those funds: a cement mixer, new pumps for the city pool, fencing for the park, storage building, and a new lawn mower to assist with ground maintenance.

Council then approved a request from the Oil & Gas Committee to use the Park from September 10 through the 13th.

The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss pending litigation. No action was announced following the closed session.

The next regular meeting of the Sistersville City Council is scheduled for Monday, July 14 at 7:00 p.m. at the City Building. The meeting is open to the public.