Tyler County Commission addressed a mixed agenda Tuesday morning, Feb. 22. County Commissioner Eric Vincent, President Charles “Pork” Smith, Vice President John Stender, County Assessor Jack Hayes, Sheriff Earl Kendle, Jr., and County Clerk Teresa Hamilton were present at the meeting.

Vice President Stender stated in his report to commission that the projects at the 4-H grounds will begin the final stages around April 1, with the exception of the water project which should be completed by May 30. Also discussed was the condition of the bridge at the grounds. “The bridge needs painted,” Stender remarked. “It is also in need of some minor repair work. He added, “It is safe, however, according to the last inspection.”

Vincent informed those present that he had attended last week’s meeting of the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Council, adding that he learned grant funding was still available in the amount of $80,000 to $85,000 for energy-saving improvements to courthouses. The grant money must be spent by the end of the fiscal year or forfeit the excess. It was decided that commission would apply for grant funding to replace windows in the courthouse that need updated. Hayes was asked to get estimates for the project and be the contact person for the project. MOVRC is also offering a free training session to members in advanced training in computer programs including Excel and PowerPoint, Vincent noted.

Smith next reported on several topics, beginning with the re-appointment of Ted Koerber to the building commission. The necessity of a building commission, he explained, concerns the school bus garage being built on property owned by the county. “The Board of Education cannot own the bus garage, due to state guidelines,” he continued. “Once the building is constructed, the board will be responsible for the loan payment, which will be paid as rent. After the loan is paid off, they will pay the commission to lease it.” The building commission will act as a fiscal agent for the property.

Smith also advised commission that he had received an estimate from Basement Systems of West Virginia in the amount of $4,740 for repairs. “They do quality work, he noted. “I think it is a very reasonable figure.” The project involves repairing leaks in the basement of the courthouse. “The contractor said it would only take a couple of days to do the work,” said Smith. A motion to authorize the contract was made by Stender, seconded by Vincent, and was approved. The commission also will consult with the contractor about work at the 4-H campgrounds.

Smith next informed commission that the Mid-Ohio Valley Regional Council had tendered a request that commission adopt a regional Natural Hazards and Mitigation Plan.

The adoption of the resolution is required for further grant funding. The final regional plan then must be submitted to and approved by FEMA. Commission voted to adopt the resolution and plan to present the guidelines to all “first responders” when finalized.

The commission approved a request from the Tyler County Developmental Authority to contribute matching funds for the West Virginia Local Economic Grant in the amount of $10,000. Stender made the motion to grant the request, which was seconded by Vincent. The money will come from next year’s fiscal budget. Another request granted by commission involved a $200 donation to the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office for uniforms. The uniforms are needed for deputies who are participating in a basketball game against the Harlem Clowns in late March.

Brenda Moore was hired by county commission for part-time work in the office of the County Clerk. Ms. Moore will be employed while another clerk is on maternity leave.

Editor’s Note: An earlier report in the Tyler Star News concerning the donation of funds to the commission in the Feb. 9 issue was incorrect. It was reported that Dominion Hope donated $50,000 to be used in the construction of a storage facility for the Sheriff’s department’s newly acquired rescue boat. The correct amount of the donation was $25,000.