LEWISBURG W.Va. (WVDN) – The Lewisburg City Council gathered on the evening of Jan. 21 for its first regular session of the new year. This included several resolutions, communications and reports from various departments and boards. The meeting was led by Mayor Beverly White and included councilmembers Sarah Elkins, Franklin Johnson, Valerie Pritt and Arron Seams. John Little was absent for this session.
One of the first focuses was a discussion concerning the Water System Improvement Project, with resolutions presented to approve two pay requests: Resolution 574 for Pay Request 32 and Resolution 575 for Pay Request 33. Both motions were passed and are part of the ongoing efforts to upgrade the city’s water infrastructure, aimed at maintaining and improving the water quality and delivery systems. In addition, Change Order No. 2 for Contract No. 11 with Empire Salvage and Recycling Inc. was approved. This change order relates to additional work required for the water system improvements such as upgrading key components at the water treatment plant.
Mayor Beverly White proclaimed the week of Jan. 19-25 as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Week in Lewisburg. The week is part of a nationwide celebration of Dr. King’s legacy, and local events will highlight community service, equality, and beloved volunteers. Mayor White quoted Dr. King: “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are created equal. If America is to be a great nation, this must be true.”
Additionally, the council recognized the Lewisburg Foundation for Volunteer of the Year 2024, an award presented to a local individual, or individuals, for outstanding service to the community.
In her communication to the council, Mayor White discussed several administrative matters, including the appointment of a new member to the Board of Zoning Appeals. Appointee Emil Stalis will help review zoning issues and ensure the city’s land use policies align with current development goals.
Next on the agenda deals with the Planning Commission, specifically regarding the approval of a minor subdivision at 134 Harris Street, owned by Richard McMahan. This public hearing received no objections from residents and the subdivision was approved for further development.
The council also presented updates on the Employee Health Insurance Renewal, and the motion passed. Additionally, Liability Insurance Coverage for the Water Plant and the renewal of the HACH Company Maintenance Agreement for the water plant’s lab equipment were discussed, and the council approved both agreements. Also, a motion for an AllMax software subscription passed, ensuring that the necessary technology and software remain in place to monitor and manage water quality.
In the Public Works Department, Director Tony Legg updated the council about ongoing infrastructure projects and emphasized the importance of continuing to invest in public works to maintain the safety and quality of Lewisburg’s roads and utilities.
Mayor White’s last comment encouraged citizens of Lewisburg to abide by parking signs and regulations in the city. Some cars have been towed this winter, and they are urged to use the city’s free parking.
The minutes from the Dec. 17, 2024 city council meeting were approved unanimously, with no amendments or corrections. As the meeting ended, the council invited visitors to address the body with a three-minute limit per subject. No public comments were made and the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m.
The Lewisburg City Council meetings are held on the third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in the Paul R. Cooley Council Chambers. All community members are encouraged to attend and participate in the ongoing discussions about the future of Lewisburg.
