To the Editor:
I first met Deena Pack at the start of her term as Mayor of Ronceverte at an event awarding federal grant funding to various municipalities in 2021. As is often the case in West Virginia, I had a connection to Mayor Pack as she had worked with my wife Lara at the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals. As we discussed her vision for Ronceverte and some of the issues that the city was facing, we explored some possible solutions to make these needed improvements to Ronceverte.
Since that time, I have maintained a working relationship with Mayor Pack. We have had multiple calls and meetings to discuss various opportunities to assist Ronceverte in its efforts to make significant steps toward redevelopment as well as overall growth of the downtown area. I was able to introduce Mayor Pack to multiple partners to facilitate talks and opportunities to work towards her goals for Ronceverte. Perhaps most importantly, we established a line of communication with CSX to assist with the ongoing agreement for the city to receive the deed to the Ronceverte Train Depot, and we continue to work together on the potential demolition and possible rebuild of the foot bridge that crosses the railroad tracks in the center of town.
Having worked with a number of mayors across the Mountain State, I believe Mayor Pack to be an optimistic leader who sees potential instead of roadblocks. Her collaborative and thoughtful approach to service and leadership allows for progress to be made as she works tirelessly to grow Ronceverte to the benefit of its citizens and visitors. Being mayor of any city is challenging work, but Mayor Pack approaches her role with the humility and strength that your city deserves. Simply put, the City of Ronceverte is lucky to have Deeana Pack as its Mayor.
In a beautiful and rural state like West Virginia, we need elected leaders who serve for the right reasons. In this upcoming municipal election, I hope you will support Mayor Deanna Pack and let her continue her good work for Ronceverte and its citizens.
Bill Bissett, Ed.D.
“Bill Bissett is the President of the West Virginia Manufacturers Association. The views expressed here are his own.”
