The deteriorated walls of the historic Carriage House, located on Main Street in Sistersville, continue to be a burden to neighbors living in the adjacent house.

An historic building in Sistersville’s downtown district continues to threaten an adjacent home, raising concerns among the members of City Council.

Earlier this year, Bill and Penny Howard addressed the mayor and council regarding the Carriage House which is located next to their home on Main Street in Sistersville. Though the building’s owner, Norman Todd, has done some work since the initial complaint was filed, the Howards contest that the weather-worn building continues to pose a safety hazard to their home as well as neighboring dwellings and the community.

“Some of the repairs were done with galvanized guardrail which was designed to collapse,” Mrs. Howard stated.

She also reported that a few of the windows frames were no longer touching the building, proof to some that the building continues to shift as time goes on.

In spite of Todd’s efforts, the Howards have been in contact with the State Fire Marshal’s office and their attorney. In response, the council plans to have a series of committee meetings to discuss the City’s plan of action with Attorney Ryan Morgan.

In other business, the council accepted the resignation of Councilman Randall Eastham. Eastham, who serves the first ward, gave up his seat in light of taking a job in the southern part of the state.

The Municipal Election to fill Eastham’s seat as well as the seat previously held by Judy Light, will be held on March 25. Additional council seats, including that of Mayor, will also be on the ballot.

The filing period will begin Jan. 11. Information and filing forms may be obtained in the Recorder’s Office at the Sistersville City Building.

Allan Maxwell gave a report on the upcoming water project, stating that a bid meeting will be held in the near future. According to Maxwell, all right-of-ways have been obtained and the project is a go as soon as a contractor is procured.

He also reported the findings of a recent discovery survey conducted throughout the city to find water leaks. Maxwell said the crew found approximately 30 possible leaks, 13 of which were large.

“The leaks will be prioritized,” Maxwell concluded.

Under personnel reports, Sistersville Police Chief David Howell requested permission to hire Bryan Owens to fill a recent vacancy within the department. A motion was made and permission was granted.

Owens will join Howell, Ptlm. M.A. Corley and Ptlm. D.A. Northcraft to round out the force.