William Bill Bell

The Sistersville City Council held its regular monthly meeting Monday evening July 14, 2025 at the City Building, addressing a range of local issues including infrastructure concerns, community funding requests, and progress on property cleanup initiatives.

The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the approval of the July agenda and the minutes from the previous meeting on June 9. Council also approved the June P-card bills totaling $12,732.71 and additional city bills amounting to $15,461.12.

Connie Boyd of the Sistersville Planning Commission reported positive feedback from the recent “Picnic in the Park” event, noting widespread community praise for the gathering.

A recurring concern over the leaking South Water Tank was discussed. While final costs for necessary repairs have not yet been determined, council members agreed to table the issue until further financial details become available.

Betsy George addressed council on behalf of the Leo Lions Club, which includes 34 youth members from Friendly, Paden City, Sistersville and Middlebourne. George requested financial support for the club’s ongoing community service projects. The council tabled the request pending the receipt of municipal funding from the Tyler County Commission.

Mayor Rice provided an update on the city’s ongoing effort to address dilapidated structures. Two additional houses have been demolished since the last meeting, bringing the total to five.

William “Bill” Bell was present at the council meeting after his appointment by Governor Patrick Morrissey to fill the vacancy left by David Kelly in the eighth district of West Virginia House of Delegates. Mr. Bell was present to introduce himself and commented that he would be available for any issues or concerns that Sistersville may have in the future.

No residents were present to speak during the public forum, and the meeting was adjourned without further business.

The next meeting of the Sistersville City Council is scheduled for August 11, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Sistersville City Building.