Fairmont public meetings in 2021

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will meet to review several appointments for local boards. The agenda includes three re-appointments to the Historic Preservation Review Commission and one re-appointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

• Three-year term re-appointments for the Historic Preservation Review Commission
• Three-year term re-appointment for the Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont City Council approved the minutes from the December 14 meeting with an amendment, and unanimously re-appointed four individuals to city boards. No public hearings or citizen petitions were held, and no other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved minutes of Dec. 14 meeting as amended (voice vote)
• Re-appointed Madelaine Shultz to Historic Preservation Review Commission, term to Jan. 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Troy Snyder to Historic Preservation Review Commission, term to Jan. 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Michael Jura to Historic Preservation Review Commission, term to Jan. 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Aron Majic to Board of Zoning Appeals, term to Jan. 1, 2025 (unanimous)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will consider adopting an ordinance to purchase 14 tax-delinquent properties from the state and convey them to future buyers under the city's Home Rule Plan. It will also introduce an ordinance to apply for a state grant to fully fund the River Run Road Waterline Extension Project, and adopt a resolution supporting a federal rule for utility pole access to aid broadband expansion.

• Purchase of 14 tax-delinquent parcels (e.g., Odell St, Highland Dr, Cliff Ave) from WV Deputy Commissioner of Delinquent and Non-Entered Lands
• Introduction of ordinance for River Run Road Waterline Extension Project, seeking WV Infrastructure Jobs Development Council grant
• Adoption of resolution supporting FCC uniform utility pole access rule for broadband
• Recognition of FSHS football team

The Fairmont City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1927 authorizing the purchase of 14 parcels from the state's delinquent tax sale, intended for the city's slum and blight demolition program. The council also introduced an ordinance for a waterline extension on River Run Road and set a public hearing for January 11, 2022. A resolution supporting an FCC uniform utility pole access rule for broadband development was adopted unanimously. Councilmember Bledsoe was excused due to illness.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1927 authorizing purchase of 14 tax-sale parcels (unanimous)
• Introduced River Run Road waterline extension ordinance; public hearing set for Jan 11, 2022
• Adopted resolution supporting FCC uniform utility pole access rule (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Nov 23, 2021 meeting as submitted
• Excused Councilmember Bledsoe from meeting due to illness

Historic Preservation Review Commission

The Historic Preservation Review Commission will consider two applications for changes to properties in Fairmont. One is for an addition to Yann's hotdogs at 300 Washington St., and the other is for signage at 87 Fairmont Ave. The commission will also approve minutes from a previous meeting.

• Addition to Yann's hotdogs at 300 Washington St. by Cathy Galambus and Arnett Builders
• Certificate of appropriateness for vinyl window sign and hanging wooden sign at 87 Fairmont Ave. by Amy Graham of Inspired Vision LLC
• Approval of minutes from September 13th, 2021

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will consider adopting a solid waste and recycling agreement with Republic Services, rezone two parcels on Locust Avenue and Hillside Drive to commercial use, and authorize the purchase of delinquent tax properties. The council will also vote on a $500,000 EPA brownfield grant application and make several board appointments.

• Adoption of solid waste and recycling agreement with Republic Services
• Rezoning of Locust Avenue parcels 18 and 19 from Educational to Main Corridor Commercial
• Rezoning of Hillside Drive parcels 42-49 from General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial
• Purchase of 14 delinquent tax parcels for $0 (no amount listed)
• Application for $500,000 EPA Brownfield Assessment Program grant

The Fairmont City Council adopted three ordinances, including the solid waste agreement with Republic Services (Ordinance No. 1924) and two rezoning ordinances for parcels on Locust Avenue and Hillside Drive (Ordinances No. 1925 and 1926), all by unanimous vote. The council also introduced an ordinance to purchase tax-sale properties, set a public hearing for December 14, 2021, and adopted a resolution to apply for a $500,000 EPA Brownfield Assessment grant. Appointments were made to several boards, and the meeting adjourned to executive session for personnel matters.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1924 approving the solid waste agreement with Republic Services
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1925 rezoning Locust Avenue parcels from Educational to Main Corridor Commercial
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1926 rezoning Hillside Drive parcels from General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial
• Introduced ordinance to purchase tax-sale properties; public hearing set for Dec. 14, 2021
• Adopted resolution to apply for $500,000 EPA Brownfield Assessment grant
• Appointed Jeffrey Boyles to Fairmont Sanitary Board (term ending Jan. 1, 2023)
• Re-appointed Carroll Hatfield to Transit Authority, Josh Rice and Philip Burton to MCPARC (terms ending Dec. 31, 2024)
• Appointed Robert Martin to Fairmont Human Rights Commission (term ending Nov. 15, 2023)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a work session to discuss a proposed rezoning request submitted by Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers, Inc. No formal vote is scheduled; the item is listed for discussion only.

• Discussion on proposed rezoning request by Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers, Inc.

Building Commission

The commission will review the annual financial report and receive an update on the East Side Fire Station. The agenda also includes discussions regarding maintenance for the public safety building and parking garage.

• Update on East Side Fire Station
• Annual Financial Report
• Public Safety Building Maintenance
• Parking Garage Maintenance
• Election of Officers for Year 2022

The Fairmont Building Commission approved the annual financial report for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2021, and elected officers for 2022. The commission also discussed maintenance needs for the Public Safety Building and Parking Garage, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved minutes of November 10, 2020 (unanimous)
• Accepted annual financial report for FY ending June 30, 2021 (unanimous)
• Elected Jeff Wise as Chairman, Jon Frantz as Vice Chairman, Chris Parr as Secretary for 2022 (unanimous)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold its regular meeting, primarily considering two rezoning ordinances. Both are introduced for first reading and will have public hearings set. One rezones parcels on Locust Avenue from Educational to Main Corridor Commercial, and the other rezones parcels on Hillside Drive from General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial. The council will also enter executive session to discuss personnel matters.

• Rezoning of Locust Avenue parcels 18 and 19 from Educational to Main Corridor Commercial
• Rezoning of Hillside Drive parcels 42-49 from General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial
• Proclamation for Small Business Saturday
• Executive session for city officer personnel matters

The Fairmont City Council introduced two rezoning ordinances: one for parcels on Locust Avenue from Educational to Main Corridor Commercial, and another for parcels on Hillside Drive from General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial. Public hearings for both were set for November 23, 2021. The council also approved the October 26 minutes, excused Councilmember Bledsoe, and adjourned to executive session for personnel matters before reconvening and adjourning.

• Introduced rezoning ordinance for Locust Avenue parcels (Educational to Main Corridor Commercial), set public hearing for Nov. 23
• Introduced rezoning ordinance for Hillside Drive parcels (General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial), set public hearing for Nov. 23
• Approved minutes from October 26, 2021 regular meeting
• Excused Councilmember Bledsoe from the meeting due to work obligation
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel matters, then reconvened and adjourned

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request by Charles and Sylvia Barr to use gravel as a driveway surface, which is normally prohibited. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and address any other business.

• Public hearing: variance request by Charles and Sylvia Barr for gravel driveway at 1096 Lake Ave, Fairmont, WV
• Approval of minutes from October 7, 2021 meeting

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a work session to discuss two topics: accessory dwelling units and eligible uses of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding. No formal votes are scheduled; the session is for discussion only.

• Discussion of Accessory Dwelling Units
• Discussion of Eligible Uses of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The commission will meet at 221 Washington St. and via Zoom to conduct regular business. The agenda includes an education committee report and an update regarding new members.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Education Committee Report
• New member update
• Open citizen forum

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission held a regular meeting with a quorum present. They approved the minutes from the September 22 meeting. The commission voted to combine the November and December meetings into a single meeting on December 8, 2021, at 5:30 p.m. via Zoom and in person at the Tygart Valley United Way offices. No other substantive business was conducted; the meeting included reports, announcements, and farewells from outgoing members.

• Approved minutes from 9/22/21 meeting
• Combined November and December meetings into one on Dec. 8, 2021 (motion carried)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a regular meeting with several public hearings and votes on ordinances, including property conveyances, a surplus property auction, zoning definition changes, and a charter amendment to allow budget revisions by resolution instead of ordinance. The council will also consider a solid waste collection agreement with Republic Services and endorse the Feast of the Seven Fishes festival.

• Ordinance to transfer 553 Carter St and 613 Oliver Ave from private owners to the city, then to an unidentified buyer
• Ordinance to convey 219 Bellview Ave, 501 State St, 420 Walnut Ave, and 422 Walnut Ave to Michael Marino/A-One General Contracting
• Ordinance amending zoning definitions for accessory dwelling units and clinics, and exempting residential garage doors from transparency rules
• Ordinance to approve solid waste and recycling agreement with Republic Services
• Resolution endorsing Feast of the Seven Fishes festival, Dec 9-11, 2021

The Fairmont City Council adopted several ordinances, including one amending the zoning code to add definitions for accessory dwelling units and medical/dental clinics, and to exempt residential garage doors from transparency requirements. The council also approved property transfers for slum and blight removal, authorized a public auction of surplus property, and made appointments to city commissions. A public hearing was set for a solid waste agreement with Republic Services.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1919 amending budget revision process (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1920 for property transfer of 553 Carter St and 613 Oliver Ave (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1921 for public auction of surplus property (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1922 amending zoning definitions (8-1, Rice no)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1923 for property transfer to Michael Marino (unanimous)
• Set public hearing for Republic Services solid waste agreement for Nov 23 (Bledsoe voted no)
• Re-appointed Jack Hussey, Faith Bowyer, Christian Cox, Sue Montgomery, Peggy Edwards, Linda O'Connor to Arts and Humanities Commission (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Rev. Larry Buckland, Cyndy Straight, Dan Swiger, Dustin Merrill to Human Rights Commission (majority, Bledsoe no)

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission is reviewing a request by Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers, Inc. to rezone multiple parcels. The proposal seeks to change zoning from Education and General Residential to Main Corridor Commercial to support a new storage building.

• Rezoning petition PC 21-14 for properties at 1334 Locust Ave and between 1348 and 1326 Hillside Dr
• Proposed change of Education and General Residential districts to Main Corridor Commercial
• Staff recommendation in favor of rezoning, contingent on future University District alignment

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is meeting to consider several ordinances and resolutions, including a proposed censure of Mayor Thomas Mainella over his interaction with a citizen on September 10, 2021. The council will also vote on budget amendments, pay plan changes, property transfers, and other administrative items. Public hearings are scheduled for several ordinances, including changes to budget approval procedures and zoning definitions.

• Resolution to censure Mayor Thomas Mainella for his interaction with a citizen on September 10, 2021
• Ordinance to eliminate requirement that budget revisions be approved by ordinance, allowing approval by resolution
• Ordinance to amend 2021-2022 annual budget (General Fund)
• Ordinance to reorganize Planning Department and provide base pay increase for Municipal Judge
• Ordinance to transfer properties at 553 Carter St, 613 Oliver Ave, 219 Bellview Ave, 501 State St, 420 and 422 Walnut Ave

The Fairmont City Council adopted three ordinances: a General Fund budget revision (Ordinance 1916), a pay plan amendment for Planning Department reorganization and a municipal judge base pay increase (Ordinance 1917), and amended Sanitary Board member qualifications (Ordinance 1918), all by unanimous vote. The council also approved a resolution censuring Mayor Thomas Mainella for his interaction with a citizen on September 10, 2021, and appointed Shae Strait to the Marion Regional Development Authority. Several ordinances were introduced for first reading with public hearings set for October 26, 2021, including property transfers and zoning definition changes.

• Adopted General Fund budget revision (Ordinance 1916) unanimously
• Adopted pay plan amendment for Planning Dept. reorganization and municipal judge pay increase (Ordinance 1917) unanimously
• Adopted Sanitary Board qualifications amendment (Ordinance 1918) unanimously
• Adopted resolution approving settlement of claims by ARC of Marion County and Disability Action Center unanimously
• Adopted resolution rescheduling Dec. 28 meeting to Dec. 21 unanimously
• Adopted resolution censuring Mayor Thomas Mainella unanimously
• Appointed Shae Strait to Marion Regional Development Authority unanimously
• Introduced ordinances for property transfers and zoning definition changes; public hearings set for Oct. 26

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request by Brad Kisner to keep an existing pool in the front yard at 702 Pittsburgh Ave, which violates zoning code. The board will also consider staff recommendations and conditions if the variance is granted.

• Variance request for pool in front yard at 702 Pittsburgh Ave
• Pool constructed without permit, code enforcement violation
• Staff recommends approval with conditions (height, setback, fence removal)
• Previous meeting approved conditional use permit for medical dispensary at 501 Merchant St

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting ordinances for two property transfers, introduce several ordinances including a budget amendment and pay plan changes, and vote on resolutions to remove traffic lights. The meeting also includes appointments to city boards and an executive session.

• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance to transfer Monroe St parcel (Map 03-01 Parcel 0234) from Main Street Fairmont, Inc. to the City
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance to transfer 1.284 Ac Coal Run (102 Benoni Avenue, Map 03-01 Parcel 123) from ARC of Marion County to the Sanitary Board
• Introduction of ordinance amending 2021-2022 budget (General Fund)
• Introduction of ordinance amending pay plan for Planning Department reorganization and municipal judge base pay increase
• Resolution requesting removal of traffic light at Fairmont Avenue and First Street, and at Locust Avenue and Bell Run Road

Council adopted two ordinances: one transferring the AJ Building on Monroe Street from Main Street Fairmont to the City, and another transferring the DAC property at 102 Benoni Avenue to the Sanitary Board for $300,000, funded by the General Fund, Sewer Board, and Storm Water Fund. The Benoni Avenue purchase passed 8-1, with Councilmember Bledsoe voting no. Council also introduced three ordinances for first reading, set public hearings for October 12, 2021, and approved a Planning Department reorganization resolution. Two resolutions requesting removal of traffic signals failed.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1914 transferring AJ Building on Monroe Street to City (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1915 transferring DAC property at 102 Benoni Avenue to Sanitary Board for $300,000 (8-1)
• Introduced General Fund budget revision ordinance, public hearing set for Oct 12
• Introduced Pay Plan amendment for Planning Dept reorganization and Municipal Judge pay increase, public hearing set for Oct 12
• Introduced Sanitary Board member qualifications amendment, public hearing set for Oct 12
• Adopted resolution approving Planning Department reorganization and Assistant City Planner position (unanimous)
• Failed resolution to remove traffic light at Fairmont Avenue and First Street (2-7)
• Failed resolution to remove traffic light at Locust Avenue and Bell Run Road (unanimous)

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission is holding a regular meeting on September 22, 2021, at 221 Washington St. and via Zoom. The agenda includes approval of minutes, an education committee report, an open citizen forum, and announcements. No specific decisions or proposals are listed beyond routine procedural items.

• Approval of meeting minutes
• Education committee report
• Open citizen forum
• Announcements from commission

Fairmont Parks Commission

The Fairmont Parks Commission is meeting to approve minutes, hear a parks report, and consider old and new business. Old business includes a discussion on pickleball, while new business involves the Windmill Committee and a fundraiser. The agenda is otherwise routine and procedural.

• Approval of minutes from August 18, 2021
• Parks report
• Discussion of pickleball (old business)
• Windmill Committee and fundraiser (new business)

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission is meeting to consider a petition from the City of Fairmont to amend the Zoning Code, specifically Article 2 on Definitions and Measurements. The proposed changes would modify various definitions, add new ones, and adjust measurements and exceptions. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment periods.

• PC 21-13: City petition to amend Zoning Code Article 2 (Definitions and Measurements)
• Public hearing on zoning amendments
• Approval of minutes from June 16, 2021

The Fairmont Planning Commission approved a rezoning request (PC 21-04) for properties on Haymond and Clay Streets, changing from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use. The commission also approved several text amendments to the zoning code, including new sections for car washes and towing services (PC 21-06), updated definitions and measurements (PC 21-07), a new permitted use chart (PC 21-08), revised subdivision regulations (PC 21-09), updated site standards (PC 21-10), regulations for accessory dwelling units (PC 21-11), and various use standard amendments (PC 21-12). The item on backyard chickens and beekeeping (PC 21-05) was tabled to a future meeting.

• Approved rezoning PC 21-04 for properties on Haymond and Clay Streets to Neighborhood Mixed Use (unanimous)
• Tabled PC 21-05 on backyard chickens and beekeeping to a future meeting (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-06 creating sections for car washes and towing services (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-07 adding 86 new definitions and a measurements section (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-08 creating a single Permitted Use Chart for all zoning districts (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-09 amending subdivision regulations, including lot sizes and corner lot requirements (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-10 amending site standards, including house size and electric vehicle charging stations (unanimous)
• Approved PC 21-11 regulating accessory dwelling units (4-2, with Yann and Straight opposed)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a regular meeting with several property-related items. It will consider adopting an ordinance to transfer a parcel on Gaston Avenue from private owners to the city, and introduce ordinances for two other property transfers, including one from Main Street Fairmont and one from the Disability Action Center to the Sanitary Board. The council will also vote on resolutions setting a formula for selling city-owned demolition properties and designating an official historian, plus make appointments.

• Adoption of ordinance to transfer Blk 26 1/2 Lt 18 Gaston Ave from Jeremiah D. and Theresa L. Johnson to the city
• Introduction and first reading of ordinance to transfer Pcl 1 Or Lot Monroe St from Main Street Fairmont, Inc. to the city
• Introduction and first reading of ordinance to transfer 1.284 Ac Coal Run (102 Benoni Avenue) from The Arc of Marion County to the Sanitary Board
• Resolution confirming formula for selling city-owned demolition properties on a first come, first served basis
• Resolution designating Raymond Alvarez as Fairmont-Marion County official historian

The Fairmont City Council adopted Ordinance No. 1913, authorizing the transfer of 608 Gaston Avenue from Jeremiah and Theresa Johnson to the city as part of its demolition program. The council also introduced ordinances for the transfer of the AJ Hayes Building and the Disability Action Center at 102 Benoni Avenue, setting public hearings for September 28, 2021. Resolutions were adopted confirming the formula for selling city-owned demolition properties and designating Raymond Alvarez as official historian. Ryan Majic was re-appointed to the Planning Commission, and Councilmember Cinalli was appointed to the Parks Commission.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1913 authorizing transfer of 608 Gaston Avenue to city (unanimous)
• Introduced ordinance for transfer of AJ Hayes Building; public hearing set for Sept 28
• Introduced ordinance for purchase/transfer of Disability Action Center at 102 Benoni Ave; public hearing set for Sept 28
• Adopted resolution confirming formula for selling city-owned demolition properties (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution designating Raymond Alvarez as official historian (unanimous)
• Re-appointed Ryan Majic to Planning Commission for term ending Sept 17, 2024 (unanimous)
• Appointed Councilmember Cinalli to Parks Commission for term ending with council term (unanimous)
• Excused Councilmembers Kennedy and Blood from meeting (voice vote)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will consider a request from Jonathan Martin, owner of Tetra Holding Co. The application seeks to change a non-conforming use to allow for retail and service use not exceeding 5,000 square feet.

• Conditional Use Permit request for 501 Merchant St.
• Proposed retail and service use up to 5,000 sq ft

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a conditional use permit for Amtower Auto Supply, Inc. dba NAPA Auto & Truck Parts to relocate to 113 East Park Ave, continuing a non-conforming use in the Neighborhood Mixed-Use District. The board voted 3-0 in favor, with two members absent. The permit allows the business to operate in a space previously used by Fairmont Printing, which staff deemed a more intense use.

• Approved conditional use permit for NAPA Auto & Truck Parts at 113 East Park Ave (3-0)
• Approved minutes of June 3, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Excused Board Members Manchin and Majic from the meeting

City Council

The Fairmont City Council administered the oath of office to Nicholas "Nicky" Cinalli, filling the 7th District vacancy left by Blair Montgomery's resignation. The council also introduced two ordinances (one for property transfer at 608 Gaston Avenue, another to change budget amendment procedures), set public hearings, and made several appointments to boards and commissions.

• Administered oath of office to Nicholas 'Nicky' Cinalli as 7th District Councilmember
• Approved minutes of August 10, 2021 meeting as submitted
• Introduced ordinance for transfer of 608 Gaston Avenue property; public hearing set for Sept 14, 2021
• Introduced ordinance to amend City Charter Section 5.09 to allow budget revisions by resolution; public hearing set for Oct 12, 2021
• Re-appointed Mike Jura to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Appointed Adam Rohaly to ICC Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed Richard Hovatter to ICC Board of Appeals (unanimous)
• Appointed James Sonnenberg, Ronald Nichols, and Jerry Bland to ICC Board of Appeals (all unanimous)

City Council

The City Council is holding a special meeting to address the appointment of a Seventh District Councilmember. The council will also enter an executive session to consider matters related to the appointment of a city officer.

• Appointment of Seventh District Councilmember
• Executive Session regarding city officer appointment matters

The Fairmont City Council held a special meeting and unanimously appointed Nicholas "Nicky" Cinalli to fill the vacant 7th District Councilmember seat. The term ends after the canvass following the November 8, 2021 Municipal Election. The meeting included an executive session before the appointment.

• Adjourned to executive session under WV Code §6-9A-4 (voice vote)
• Appointed Nicholas 'Nicky' Cinalli to 7th District Councilmember vacancy (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:51 p.m. (voice vote)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding public hearings and considering adoption of nine ordinances, most of which are a comprehensive rewrite of the city's Clearzoning® code, affecting definitions, zoning districts, use standards, site standards, and subdivision regulations. The council will also vote on reestablishing an association with the Marion Regional Development Corporation. The agenda is substantive, with multiple zoning changes and a development agreement.

• Adopt replacement pages to the Fairmont City Code
• Amend Clearzoning® Article 2.0 definitions and add measurement section
• Reform zoning districts and create a single permitted use chart
• Add new regulations for car washes and towing (Sections 4.38 and 4.39)
• Reauthorize agreement with Marion Regional Development Corporation (dated July 27, 2021)

The Fairmont City Council adopted a series of seven ordinances (No. 1905-1912) that comprehensively reform the city's Clearzoning Code, including new definitions, zoning districts, use standards, and subdivision regulations. A separate ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) died for lack of a motion. The council also accepted the resignation of 7th District Councilmember Blair Montgomery, effective August 10, 2021.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1905, approving replacement pages to the City Code (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1906, amending Article 2.0 Definitions of the Clearzoning Code (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1907, reforming Article 3.0 Zoning Districts (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1908, amending Article 4.0 Use Standards (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1909, creating new sections for car washes and towing (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1910, amending Article 5.0 Site Standards (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1911, amending Article 7.0 Subdivision Regulations (unanimous)
• Ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units died for lack of a motion

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a conditional use permit request from Kevin Amtower, owner of Amtower Auto Supply, Inc. dba NAPA Auto & Truck Parts, to continue a non-conforming use at 113 East Park Ave. The request is due to the size limit for commercial uses in the Neighborhood Mixed-Use District. The board will also approve minutes from the June 3rd meeting.

• Conditional Use Permit for NAPA Auto & Truck Parts at 113 East Park Ave
• Public hearing on non-conforming commercial use in Neighborhood Mixed-Use District
• Approval of June 3rd, 2021 minutes

The Board of Zoning Appeals denied a variance request from Little General to reduce commercial building transparency from 70% to 52%, voting 5-0. The board approved a height variance for an accessory structure for James and Susan Musick-Williams, and approved two variances for Matthew and Samantha Lieving regarding side yard setback and garage bay visibility.

• Denied Little General transparency variance (5-0)
• Approved Musick-Williams height variance for accessory structure (5-0)
• Approved Lieving side yard setback variance (5-0)
• Approved Lieving garage bay visibility variance (5-0)

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve minutes, receive an update on the Building Bridges event from the Education Committee, and hear public comments. The agenda is mostly procedural, with no major decisions or proposals listed.

• Building Bridges event update from Education Committee
• Open citizen forum for public input
• Approval of meeting minutes

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission's Education Committee provided an update on the RaceCardProject.com initiative, which collected six-word phrases about diversity, inclusion, and representation at the July 2021 Building Bridges of Respect event. The update also included information about a Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice forum on reimagining policing, with a link to a video and details for an upcoming Part II on August 3, 2021. No formal decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded in the minutes

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting ordinances amending the 2021-2022 budget and rezoning parcels at Haymond and Clay streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use. They will also introduce several ordinances to update the city's zoning code, including new regulations for accessory dwelling units, car washes, and towing. Additionally, the council will consider resolutions supporting the Disability Action Center's relocation and Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers' federal grant application, and approve a $250,000 letter of credit renewal.

• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending 2021-2022 General Fund budget
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance rezoning parcels 44, 45, 46, 46.1, 58, 59, 60 at Haymond and Clay streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use
• Introduction of ordinances to overhaul zoning code: definitions, districts, use standards, site standards, subdivision regulations, and accessory dwelling units
• Resolution to reestablish association with Marion Regional Development Corporation and approve agreement dated July 27, 2021
• Resolution approving renewal of Wesbanco letter of credit No. 2001-525 in amount of $250,000

The Fairmont City Council adopted two ordinances: a General Fund budget revision (Ordinance No. 1903) and a rezoning of parcels at Haymond and Clay Streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use (Ordinance No. 1904), both by unanimous vote of those present. The council also introduced several ordinances amending the Clearzoning Code and set a public hearing for August 10, 2021. A supplemental resolution approving a $250,000 letter of credit with Wesbanco Bank and resolutions supporting the Disability Action Center and Monongahela Valley Association of Health Centers were adopted unanimously.

• Adopted General Fund budget revision (Ordinance No. 1903) unanimously
• Adopted rezoning at Haymond & Clay Streets to Neighborhood Mixed Use (Ordinance No. 1904) unanimously
• Introduced ordinance to adopt replacement pages to City Code; public hearing set for Aug 10
• Introduced ordinance amending Clearzoning Article 2.0 Definitions; public hearing set for Aug 10
• Introduced ordinance amending Clearzoning Article 3.0 Zoning Districts; public hearing set for Aug 10
• Introduced ordinance amending Clearzoning Article 4.0 Use Standards; public hearing set for Aug 10
• Adopted supplemental resolution for $250,000 letter of credit with Wesbanco Bank unanimously
• Adopted resolution supporting Disability Action Center relocation funding unanimously

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a work session to discuss proposed planning and zoning text amendments. This is a discussion item only, with no formal vote scheduled. The meeting is procedural in nature, focused on a single topic.

• Discussion on proposed Planning and Zoning Text Amendments

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding its regular meeting with several items for consideration, including a first reading of a budget amendment ordinance, a rezoning request at Haymond and Clay Streets, and a resolution supporting a $1,408,441 grant application for the Cross Town Connector trail project. No public hearings are scheduled, and the meeting includes an executive session to discuss real property matters.

• First reading of ordinance amending the 2021-2022 annual budget (General Fund)
• First reading of ordinance to rezone parcels 44, 45, 46, 46.1, 58, 59, & 60 at Haymond and Clay Streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use
• Resolution supporting $1,408,441 grant application to WV DEP AML Pilot Program for Cross Town Connector Section A-1
• Executive session for real property purchase, sale, conveyance, or lease
• Approval of minutes from June 22, 2021 regular meeting

The Fairmont City Council adopted a resolution supporting a grant application to the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection for $1,408,441 to fund the Cross-Town Trail Connector Section A-1. The resolution passed unanimously. Council also introduced two ordinances for first reading: a General Fund budget revision and a rezoning of parcels at Haymond and Clay Streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use, with public hearings set for July 27, 2021. A resident's request for pickleball courts at Morgantown Avenue Mini-Park was discussed but no action was taken, as it was not on the agenda.

• Adopted resolution supporting $1,408,441 grant application for Cross-Town Trail Connector Section A-1
• Introduced ordinance for General Fund budget revision; public hearing set for July 27, 2021
• Introduced ordinance to rezone parcels at Haymond and Clay Streets to Neighborhood Mixed Use; public hearing set for July 27, 2021
• Excused Councilmember Bledsoe from the meeting due to vacation
• Approved minutes from June 22, 2021 meeting as submitted
• Adjourned to executive session to discuss real property matters
• Reconvened and adjourned the meeting at 8:14 p.m.

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission is holding its regular meeting on June 23, 2021, at 221 Washington St. and via Zoom. The agenda includes approval of minutes, an education committee report with an update on the Building Bridges event, an open citizen forum, and announcements. No votes on ordinances or contracts are listed.

• Building Bridges event update
• Open citizen forum
• Approval of meeting minutes

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission held a regular meeting on June 23, 2021, with a quorum present. They approved the minutes from the May 26 meeting and excused Jim Nolan. The commission discussed upcoming events, including the Building Bridges of Respect event on July 24-25 and a COVID memorial service on July 18, but took no other substantive actions.

• Approved meeting minutes from 5/26/21 (motion by DeVito, seconded by Lyden)
• Excused Jim Nolan from the meeting (motion by DeVito, seconded by Samuels)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion by DeVito, seconded by DeMary-Andrews)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is meeting to consider a lease agreement with Lamar Companies for a 1.39-acre city-owned parcel on Country Club Road, and to make an appointment to the Historic Preservation Review Commission. The agenda also includes a demolition progress presentation and a public hearing on the lease.

• Public hearing and adoption vote on ordinance leasing 1.39 acres on Country Club Road to Lamar Companies
• Appointment to Historic Preservation Review Commission for unexpired term ending January 1, 2022
• City Manager's report includes demolition progress presentation
• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2021 regular meeting

The Fairmont City Council approved an ordinance leasing city-owned property on Country Club Road to Lamar Companies for a billboard, and appointed Troy Snyder to the Historic Preservation Review Commission. The meeting also included public hearings and discussions on flooding, demolition progress, and use of American Rescue Plan funds, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1902 leasing 1.39 acres on Country Club Road to Lamar Companies for billboard (unanimous)
• Appointed Troy Snyder to Historic Preservation Review Commission for unexpired term ending Jan. 1, 2022 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission will hold public hearings on a rezoning request and a series of zoning code text amendments. The rezoning would change several parcels near Haymond and Clay Streets from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use. The amendments would add new regulations for home gardens (including chickens and bees), car washes, towing services, and accessory dwelling units, and would restructure the zoning code's use and development standards.

• PC 21-04: Rezoning from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use for parcels on Haymond St, Clay St, 326 Wood St, and 328 Wood St
• PC 21-05: New section 4.40 Home Garden to permit backyard chickens and beekeeping
• PC 21-06: New sections 4.38 Car Washes and 4.39 Towing Services
• PC 21-11: Amend section 4.25 to regulate Accessory Dwelling Units
• PC 21-09: Amend subdivision regulations for lot, access, and parking requirements

The Fairmont Planning Commission approved PC 21-04, a zoning map amendment rezoning parcels on Haymond Street, Clay Street, and Wood Street from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use. The vote was 7-1, with Commissioner Wean dissenting. The commission also approved setting public hearings for three text amendments regarding backyard chickens/beekeeping, car washes/towing services, and zoning definitions/measurements.

• Approved PC 21-04 rezoning from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use for Haymond St, Clay St, and Wood St parcels (7-1, Wean opposed)
• Approved setting public hearing for PC 21-05 creating Section 4.40 Home Garden to permit backyard chickens and beekeeping
• Approved setting public hearing for PC 21-06 creating Sections 4.38 Car Washes and 4.39 Towing Services
• Approved setting public hearing for PC 21-07 amending Article 2 Definitions and Measurements
• Approved minutes from April 21st, 2021 meeting
• Excused Commissioner Majic from the meeting due to prior work commitment

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting several ordinances, including amendments to the 2020-2021 budget for the General Fund and Coal Severance, changes to the city pay plan with base pay increases and new positions, and a measure to permit street-legal special purpose vehicles on city streets. The council will also consider a lease agreement with Lamar Companies for property on Country Club Road, a grant application for infrastructure improvements, a resolution supporting broadband access, acceptance of federal COVID-19 relief funds, and a grant application for a playground at Windmill Park.

• Ordinance amending 2020-2021 budget: General Fund
• Ordinance amending 2020-2021 budget: Coal Severance
• Ordinance amending pay plan with base pay increases, new positions, and longevity pay increase
• Ordinance permitting street-legal special purpose vehicles on city streets
• Lease to Lamar Companies of 1.39 acres on Country Club Road

The City Council adopted four ordinances, including a pay plan amendment that raises base pay for employees, adjusts firefighter apprentice pay, creates new positions, and increases longevity pay. The pay plan also promotes an existing employee to HR manager with a $13,900 raise, which drew discussion but passed unanimously. Council also approved budget revisions for the General Fund and Coal Severance, and allowed street-legal special purpose vehicles on city streets.

• Adopted General Fund budget revision (Ordinance 1898, unanimous)
• Adopted Coal Severance budget revision (Ordinance 1899, unanimous)
• Adopted Pay Plan amendment with raises and new HR manager position (Ordinance 1900, unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance permitting street-legal special purpose vehicles (Ordinance 1901, 8-1, Montgomery no)
• Introduced billboard lease ordinance for Lamar Companies on Country Club Road, public hearing set for June 22
• Adopted resolution to apply for $400,000 transportation grant for Locust Avenue improvements (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution supporting statewide broadband access (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution accepting American Rescue Plan Act funds (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont Board of Zoning Appeals will hold public hearings on three variance requests. The requests include reducing commercial transparency from 70% to 49%, allowing a two-story accessory structure, and granting setbacks and garage bay exceptions for a residential property. The board will also discuss appeals filed with the Planning and Development Department.

• Little General: variance to reduce commercial transparency from 70% to 49%
• James and Susan Williams: height variance for two-story accessory structure
• Matthew and Samantha Lieving (1649 Big Tree Drive): side yard setback of 15 feet instead of required ~26 feet
• Lieving: variance to allow three garage bays facing the street
• Discussion of appeals filed with Planning and Development Department

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance for William Heston to build a 32-foot addition at 501 Auburn St, encroaching 7.5 feet into the required 25-foot rear setback, despite opposition from neighbors. The vote was 3-1, with President Shultz abstaining. Staff had recommended conditional approval for a 5-foot encroachment, but the board approved the full request.

• Approved variance BZA 21-02 for 501 Auburn St, allowing 7.5-foot encroachment into rear setback (3-1, Shultz abstained)
• Approved minutes of April 1, 2021 meeting unanimously
• Closed public hearing for BZA 21-02 unanimously

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The commission will hold a virtual meeting to review the Education Committee report and receive an update on the Building Bridges event. The agenda also includes a legislative update from Fairness WV.

• Building Bridges event update
• Legislative update/recap from Fairness WV

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission received a report from the Communities of Shalom Prevention Coalition detailing completed and planned diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts. The report outlined a completed pilot book study on Ibram Kendi's 'How to be an Anti-Racist,' ongoing '65 Minutes of Support' Zoom sessions, and proposed in-person 'Inclusivity = Marion County Strong!' workshops for community leaders. No formal decisions or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• No formal decisions or votes recorded in the minutes
• Reported completion of pilot book study on 'How to be an Anti-Racist' (October 2020)
• Noted ongoing '65 Minutes of Support' Zoom sessions (December 2020–June 2021)
• Proposed 'Inclusivity = Marion County Strong!' workshops for July 22-23, 2021, pending council interest
• Invited council to Building Bridges of Respect event on July 24-25, 2021

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a regular meeting with public hearings and votes on several ordinances. These include changes to parking, landscaping, and fence regulations in the zoning code, updates to sewer discharge limits, budget amendments, a pay plan update, and a proposal to allow street-legal special purpose vehicles. The council will also consider a library board reappointment.

• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending Article 3.14 (City Center) for supplemental parking regulations
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending Section 5.4 (Parking) to modernize parking requirements
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending Sections 5.5 (Landscaping) and 5.8 (Fences) to clarify buffer yards and screens
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending Section 8.9 (Board of Zoning Appeals) to clarify expiration of conditional uses and variances
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance amending sewer discharge local limits per WV/NPDES Permit No. WV0023353

The Fairmont City Council unanimously adopted five ordinances: four amending the Clearzoning Code to eliminate downtown parking minimums, modernize parking requirements, clarify buffer/fence rules, and clarify BZA expiration dates; and one updating sewer discharge local limits for mercury as ordered by the WV DEP. Council also introduced four ordinances for first reading, including budget revisions and a pay plan amendment, with public hearings set for June 8, 2021. Blair Montgomery was re-appointed to the Marion County Public Library Board.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1893 eliminating minimum parking requirements in City Center District (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1894 modernizing parking requirements in Site Standards (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1895 clarifying buffer yards, fences, and vegetative screens (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1896 clarifying expiration dates for BZA conditional uses and variances (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1897 updating sewer discharge local limits for mercury (unanimous)
• Introduced General Fund budget revision ordinance; public hearing set for June 8, 2021
• Introduced Coal Severance budget revision ordinance; public hearing set for June 8, 2021
• Re-appointed Blair Montgomery to Marion County Public Library Board (unanimous)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council and Fairmont Parks Commission are holding a joint work session to consider the Norwood Park Project. This is a discussion item, not a final decision, and no other business is listed.

• Discussion of Norwood Park Project

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is considering a request to rezone several parcels from General Residential to Neighborhood Mixed Use. The commission will also discuss upcoming text amendments regarding home gardens, car washes, and towing services.

• Rezoning request for Haymond St (between Gateway Connector and Clay St) and Clay St (between Haymond St and Wood St)
• Rezoning of 326 Wood St and 328 Wood St
• Proposed text amendments for backyard chickens and beekeeping (PC 21-05)
• Proposed text amendments for car washes and towing services (PC 21-06)
• Discussion of draft amendments to regulate Accessory Dwelling Units

The Fairmont Planning Commission approved three zoning text amendments (PC 21-01, PC 21-02, PC 21-03) and set a public hearing for May 19, 2021, on a rezoning request. PC 21-01 exempts City Center district uses from minimum parking requirements, changes curb cut rules, and adds ADA and bicycle parking standards. PC 21-02 clarifies BZA variance expiration rules, and PC 21-03 adds buffer yard regulations and fencing allowances. The commission also approved scheduling a public hearing for a rezoning of half a block to Neighborhood Mixed Use.

• Approved PC 21-01: City Center parking exemptions and driveway/curb cut amendments (all in favor)
• Approved PC 21-02: BZA variance expiration and conditional use clarification (all in favor)
• Approved PC 21-03: Buffer yard and fencing ordinance amendments (all in favor)
• Approved setting public hearing for May 19, 2021, on rezoning half a block to Neighborhood Mixed Use (all in favor)
• Approved minutes from March 17 meeting (all in favor)

Fairmont Parks Commission

The Fairmont Parks Commission is holding a special meeting with a single substantive item: a presentation from CEC on the Norwood Park update. The rest of the agenda is procedural (call to order, roll call, adjournment).

• CEC presentation on Norwood Park update

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting ordinances on tax credits for residential development, renewal of a workers' compensation letter of credit, property conveyances, and contractor fees. It will also introduce several zoning and sewer code amendments, and revise its demolition policy.

• Ordinance to allow B&O tax credit for certain residential development under Home Rule
• Renewal of Wesbanco Bank letter of credit No. 2001-525 for workers' comp self-insurance
• Conveyance of parcels at Spence Street Extension and 215 Albert Court to the city
• Repeal contractor licensing Article 769 and enact new contractor fees Section 743.21 effective July 1, 2021
• Introduction of zoning amendments on parking, landscaping, fences, and Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont City Council adopted four ordinances, including a B&O tax credit for residential development to encourage new housing, and a resolution revising the demolition policy for dilapidated structures. It also introduced several zoning and sewer ordinances for public hearings on May 25, 2021, and appointed Jay Rogers to the Housing Authority.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1889, B&O tax credit for residential development (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1890, renewing WesBanco letter of credit for workers' comp (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1891, conveying 215 Albert Court and Spring Street Extension parcels to city (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1892, repealing contractor licensing, enacting fee section (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution revising demolition policy for dilapidated structures (unanimous)
• Appointed Jay Rogers to Fairmont-Morgantown Housing Authority, term to June 30, 2026 (unanimous)
• Introduced five ordinances (parking, site standards, landscaping, zoning appeals, sewer limits) with public hearings set for May 25, 2021

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Fairmont Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing on a variance request by William Heston for a property at 501 Auburn St. The request seeks to reduce the required rear yard setback from 25 feet to 17.5 feet to allow an addition to the single-family home. No other business is listed on the agenda.

• Public hearing for BZA 21-02: variance request by William Heston at 501 Auburn St
• Request to encroach 7.5 feet into required 25-foot rear setback, resulting in 17.5-foot setback
• Property zoned General Residential, Tax District 5, Map 5, Parcel 207

The Board of Zoning Appeals held a routine meeting with no public hearings or past cases. Members unanimously approved the previous minutes and reelected Madelaine Shultz as president and Board Member Knapp as vice president. The board also discussed seeking alternate members.

• Approved minutes of March 4, 2021 (unanimous)
• Reelected Madelaine Shultz as president (unanimous)
• Elected Board Member Knapp as vice president (unanimous)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is meeting to consider several ordinances, including adopting an amendment to the city's 2020-2021 annual budget. The council will also introduce and set public hearings for ordinances related to a business and occupation tax credit for certain residential development, renewing a letter of credit for workers' compensation, conveying two parcels of real estate, and repealing and replacing contractor licensing fees. The meeting includes presentations recognizing FSHS cheerleaders and a hospital CEO.

• Adoption of ordinance amending the 2020-2021 annual budget (General Fund)
• Introduction of ordinance to allow B&O tax credit for certain residential development under Home Rule
• Introduction of ordinance to renew Wesbanco letter of credit for workers' compensation
• Introduction of ordinance to convey two parcels (Shadyside and 215 Albert Court) to the city
• Introduction of ordinance repealing contractor licensing and enacting new contractor fees

The Council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1888, a General Fund Budget Revision to maintain a balanced budget as required by the State. It also introduced four ordinances on first reading and set a public hearing for May 11, 2021, covering B&O tax credits for residential development, renewal of a Workers Comp letter of credit, conveyance of two properties, and contractor licensing fees. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included recognitions, announcements, and a citizen petition.

• Adopted General Fund Budget Revision Ordinance No. 1888 (unanimous)
• Introduced ordinance for B&O tax credits for residential development; public hearing set for May 11, 2021
• Introduced ordinance to renew Workers Comp letter of credit with WesBanco Bank; public hearing set for May 11, 2021
• Introduced ordinance to convey 215 Albert Court and Spence Street Extension properties to the City; public hearing set for May 11, 2021
• Introduced ordinance repealing contractor licensing Article 769 and enacting Section 743.21 fees; public hearing set for May 11, 2021

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission is holding a public hearing on proposed text amendments to the City of Fairmont Zoning Code, covering parking requirements, landscaping, fences, and Board of Zoning Appeals rules. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from the March 17th meeting. No new public hearings are scheduled for May 19th.

• Eliminating minimum parking requirements in the City Center District
• Adding regulations for bicycle and handicapped parking
• Clarifying expiration of approved variances and conditional uses
• Creating five types of buffer yards for landscaping
• Amending front yard fence regulations and allowing fences on adjacent vacant parcels

The Fairmont Planning Commission held a special meeting via WEBEX, approved the February 10th minutes, and excused Commissioner Majic. The main discussion was on proposed text amendments to the City Center zoning code, including eliminating parking requirements, reducing driveway widths, adding ADA parking design requirements, clarifying bicycle standards, and revamping loading bay requirements. No formal decisions were made on the amendments; the commission will review the proposals further.

• Approved minutes from February 10th, 2021 (all in favor)
• Excused Commissioner Majic from the meeting (all in favor)
• Discussed proposed City Center zoning text amendments (no action taken)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold a public hearing on proposed levy rates for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021, and then consider adopting a resolution approving those rates. The rates are set by the city and Marion County and approved by the State Tax Commissioner. This is a routine annual procedure to set property tax rates.

• Public hearing on proposed levy rates for FY 2021-22
• Resolution approving rates of levy laid by City of Fairmont and Marion County

The council held a public hearing and then unanimously adopted a resolution approving the city's levy rates for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2021, as set by Marion County and approved by the State Tax Commissioner. No public comments were made in opposition. Councilmember Montgomery was excused from the meeting.

• Adopted resolution approving FY2021-22 levy rates (unanimous)
• Excused Councilmember Montgomery from meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting ordinances to transfer two parcels of real estate to the city, one from L & J Properties North, LLC and one from Sean Murphy. They will also consider an ordinance for the public auction of surplus personal property, introduce a budget amendment for the 2020-2021 General Fund, and adopt resolutions supporting the WV Municipal League Advocacy Agenda and a flexible benefit plan.

• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance to transfer Lot 4 Rhea Terrace (Map 27 Parcel 0027) from L & J Properties North, LLC to the city
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance to transfer three parcels on Morgantown Avenue (Map 4 Parcels 8, 9, 10) from Sean Murphy to the city
• Public hearing and adoption of ordinance for public auction of surplus personal property
• Introduction and first reading of ordinance to amend the 2020-2021 annual budget (General Fund)
• Adoption of resolution supporting the 2021 WV Municipal League Advocacy Agenda

The Fairmont City Council approved three ordinances: transferring a property at 4 Rhea Terrace and three parcels on Morgantown Avenue to the City, and authorizing the public auction of surplus personal property. They also introduced a General Fund budget revision ordinance, set a public hearing for April 20, and adopted resolutions supporting the WVML Advocacy Agenda and establishing a Flexible Benefit Plan. The meeting included proclamations for Russell Yann Day and Sexual Assault Awareness Month, and a presentation on the new transparency website.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1885 to transfer 4 Rhea Terrace from L & J Properties North, LLC to the City of Fairmont.
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1886 to transfer three parcels on Morgantown Avenue from Sean Murphy to the City of Fairmont.
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1887 to authorize the public auction of surplus personal property.
• Introduced a General Fund budget revision ordinance and set a public hearing for April 20, 2021.
• Adopted a resolution supporting the 2021 WVML Advocacy Agenda.
• Adopted a resolution establishing a Flexible Benefit Plan (Cafeteria Plan) effective July 1, 2021.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved two variances for The Little General Store at 190 East Grafton Rd, reducing setback requirements for off-street parking and exterior lighting, with contingencies. A third request to reduce parking spaces was removed from the agenda as no longer needed. The board also approved prior meeting minutes and delayed officer elections to the next meeting.

• Approved variance A (setback reduction for off-street parking) with staff-recommended contingencies (unanimous)
• Approved variance B (setback reduction for exterior lighting) (unanimous)
• Removed item C (parking space reduction) from agenda as no longer necessary
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2020 (unanimous)
• Delayed election of officers until next meeting (unanimous)

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The commission approved the minutes from its February 24, 2021 meeting with no discussion. Committee reports covered ongoing training, a book club, an art project, and police reform videos. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was largely informational.

• Approved minutes from 2/24/21 meeting (unanimous)

City Council

The council unanimously adopted the FY 2021-2022 General Fund and Coal Severance budgets, along with an ordinance updating the city code. It also introduced ordinances to accept property transfers and set public hearings, and approved resolutions for a fire station grant application and other items.

• Adopted FY 2021-2022 General Fund and Coal Severance budgets (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 1884 updating city code replacement pages (unanimous)
• Introduced ordinance to transfer 4 Rhea Terrace property from L & J Properties North, LLC to city; public hearing set for April 13, 2021
• Introduced ordinance to transfer three Morgantown Avenue parcels from Sean Murphy to city; public hearing set for April 13, 2021
• Introduced ordinance for public auction of surplus personal property; public hearing set for April 13, 2021
• Approved resolution authorizing Scott Electric Foundation grant application for $137,426.83 for East Side Fire Station (unanimous)
• Proclaimed April 2021 as Fair Housing Month (unanimous)
• Appointed City Manager as Hatch Act Information Officer (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission held a special meeting via WEBEX. The commission approved the minutes from September 16, 2020, and January 20, 2021, and excused Commissioner Richardson from the meeting. No public hearings were set. City Manager Valerie Means presented an early-stage 2021-2022 Capital Improvement Plan, which will require further adjustment and approval by the City Council.

• Approved the minutes from September 16, 2020, and January 20, 2021.
• Excused Commissioner Richardson from the meeting.
• Set no public hearings.
• Heard a presentation on the 2021-2022 Capital Improvement Plan, which remains in early stages and requires City Council action.

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold a virtual regular meeting on March 9, 2021, with no public hearings scheduled. The council will consider several resolutions, including appointing a municipal judge, applying for a $96,300 federal firefighter grant, and opposing a state bill that would close the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center. They will also introduce an ordinance to adopt replacement pages to the city code and make an appointment to the Parking Authority.

• Resolution to appoint Anthony J. Julian as Municipal Judge for a four-year term (July 1, 2021 – June 30, 2025)
• Resolution authorizing application for $96,300 Assistance to Firefighter Grant for the Fairmont Fire Department
• Resolution opposing House Bill 2626, which proposes closure of John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center and three other long-term care facilities
• Ordinance to approve and adopt current replacement pages to the Fairmont City Code (first reading)
• One appointment to the Fairmont Parking Authority for a three-year term ending September 30, 2024

The Fairmont City Council unanimously reappointed Anthony J. Julian as municipal judge for a four-year term, authorized a $96,300 federal firefighter grant application, and adopted a resolution opposing House Bill 2626 to close the John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center. Council also appointed Lauren Candell to the Parking Authority and introduced a code update ordinance with a public hearing set for March 23, 2021. No public hearings or citizen petitions were held.

• Reappointed Anthony J. Julian as municipal judge for term ending June 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of $96,300 FEMA firefighter grant application (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution opposing House Bill 2626 to close John Manchin Sr. Health Care Center (unanimous)
• Appointed Lauren Candell to Fairmont Parking Authority for term ending September 30, 2024 (unanimous)
• Introduced ordinance to adopt replacement pages to City Code; public hearing set for March 23, 2021

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a virtual work session to discuss whether utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) should be allowed on city streets. No formal vote or decision is scheduled; the item is listed for discussion only.

• Discussion regarding UTVs on city streets

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding property variances at 190 East Grafton Rd. Richard Triggs is requesting reductions to required setbacks for off-street parking and exterior lighting, as well as a reduction in the minimum number of required parking spaces.

• Variance request for parking setback reduction at 190 East Grafton Rd
• Variance request for exterior lighting setback reduction at 190 East Grafton Rd
• Variance request to reduce minimum required number of parking spaces

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved all three requests on the agenda: a side setback variance for a metal building, a front setback variance for two homes, and a conditional use for a carwash. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved 10-foot side setback variance for Keith Craig at 202 Mound Ave (unanimous)
• Approved front setback variance to 10 feet for Mykon Development on Holly Street (unanimous)
• Approved conditional use for Kenneth Brand to construct a carwash on Lanham Lane (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Review Commission

The Fairmont Historic Preservation Review Commission is holding a routine meeting with no substantive items on the agenda. The only new business is the election of officers, and the rest is procedural (roll call, approval of minutes, adjournment).

• Election of officers

Historic Preservation Review Commission

The Historic Preservation Review Commission is holding a routine meeting with no substantive decisions on the agenda. The only new business is the election of officers; the rest is procedural (roll call, approving prior minutes, adjournment).

• Election of officers
• Approval of minutes from November 2, 2020

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission's Education Committee presented its February 2021 report, which was received. The report outlined activities including a criminal justice reform summit, an equity summit, and a Communities of Shalom retreat. It also detailed plans to address systemic bias in policing, support a local hate crime and anti-discrimination ordinance, and promote community building and education. No formal decisions were made; the report was informational.

• Received the February 2021 report from the HRC Education Committee.
• Noted the committee's plan to work with groups like the Human Rights Commission and Pastoral Alliance to reduce bias in policing.
• Noted the committee's objective to support passage of local anti-discrimination laws protecting LGBTQ citizens.
• Noted the committee's plan to sponsor community-building events, such as the Building Bridges of Respect program.
• Noted the committee's plan to provide book study groups and trainings on antiracism and systemic discrimination.
• Noted the committee's plan to support local and statewide anti-discrimination policies.

City Council

The City Council is considering an ordinance to amend its Home Rule plan and a proposed expansion of Business and Occupation Tax credits for owner-occupied residential units. The Council will also consider a resolution designating June 19, 2021, as Juneteenth Celebration Day.

• Ordinance to submit an amendment to the West Virginia Municipal Home Rule Board
• Proposed expansion of Business and Occupation Tax credits for owner-occupied residential dwellings
• Resolution designating June 19, 2021, as Juneteenth Celebration Day

The Fairmont City Council held two public hearings and then unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 1883, authorizing the city to submit an amendment to its approved Home Rule Plan to the West Virginia Municipal Home Rule Board. The amendment would expand Business and Occupation Tax credits to encourage new owner-occupied residential development. The council also unanimously adopted a resolution designating June 19, 2021, as Juneteenth Celebration Day in Fairmont.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1883 authorizing submission of a Home Rule Plan amendment to expand B&O tax credits for residential development.
• Adopted a resolution designating June 19, 2021, as Juneteenth Celebration Day in Fairmont.
• Approved the minutes from the February 9, 2021 regular meeting as submitted.
• Held public hearings on the Home Rule Plan amendment and the proposed ordinance; no public comments were made.

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding a work session to discuss the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 City Budget. This is a discussion item, not a final vote. The meeting is procedural and focused solely on budget deliberations.

• Discussion of the Fiscal Year 2021-2022 City Budget

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission is holding a special virtual meeting on February 10, 2021, at 7:00 pm. The sole agenda item is a public hearing to go over the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) budget. No other business is listed.

• Public hearing on the CIP Budget

The Fairmont Planning Commission met on January 20, 2021, and approved the minutes from September 16, 2020, with noted corrections. The commission deferred the review of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to the February meeting due to concerns about receiving the agenda in time. Officers were elected: Jaime Greene as President and Commissioner Straight as Vice President, both approved 7-0. No public hearings were set, and no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from September 16, 2020, with corrections (6-0)
• Deferred CIP review to February meeting
• Elected Jaime Greene as President (7-0)
• Elected Commissioner Straight as Vice President (7-0)
• Excused Commissioner Yann from meeting (7-0)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council unanimously adopted five ordinances and one resolution. These included a General Fund budget revision (Ordinance 1879), a Pay Plan amendment with base pay increases for two vacant positions (Ordinance 1880), an update to the Fire Prevention Code (Ordinance 1881), authorization to auction a surplus Water Board trailer (Ordinance 1882), and a resolution to apply for an $8,592 MCPARC grant for basketball hoops at Windmill Park. All votes were unanimous.

• Adopted General Fund budget revision (Ordinance 1879) unanimously
• Adopted Pay Plan amendment with base pay increases for vacant Customer Relations Manager/Auditor and Code/Housing Officer positions (Ordinance 1880) unanimously
• Adopted Fire Prevention Code update to align with state code (Ordinance 1881) unanimously
• Adopted ordinance authorizing public auction of 2004 Wilkins mobile home/office trailer (Ordinance 1882) unanimously
• Adopted resolution to apply for $8,592 MCPARC grant for four basketball hoop systems at Windmill Park unanimously

Fairmont Human Rights Commission

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission is meeting virtually to approve minutes, receive an education committee report, and select officers for 2021. They will also get updates on new members and hold an open citizen forum. The agenda is mostly routine administrative business.

• Selection of 2021 commission officers
• Education committee report
• Update on new commission members
• Open citizen forum

The Fairmont Human Rights Commission met on January 27, 2021, and discussed several educational and community initiatives. They reviewed a proposal for a City Council resolution designating June 19, 2021, as National Juneteenth Celebration Day in Fairmont, and explored ideas for a forum on religious freedom and human rights. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was primarily informational and planning-focused.

• Discussed City Council proposal for 2021 Juneteenth Celebration Resolution
• Explored ideas for interfaith forum on religious freedom and human rights
• Reviewed Criminal Justice Reform Summit (Jan 28-30, no cost)
• Reviewed Equity Summit: Designing an Antiracist Future

City Council

The Fairmont City Council will hold a regular meeting with several public hearings and ordinance readings. Key items include adopting a quitclaim easement for Morse Street, amending the 2020-2021 budget, and updating the city pay plan. The council will also consider adopting updated state fire codes and auctioning surplus water board property.

• Quitclaim easement for Morse Street encroachment (Parcel 263.1, Ellis property)
• Amendment to 2020-2021 annual budget (General Fund)
• Pay plan changes for Customer Relations Manager/Auditor and Code/Housing Officer
• Adoption of state fire code standards (Title 87, Series 1)
• Public auction of 2004 Wilkins mobile home/office trailer (Water Board surplus)

The Council adopted Ordinance No. 1878 granting a quitclaim easement to Michael and Rachel Ellis for an encroaching structure on Morse Street, with a unanimous vote of those present. It also introduced several ordinances for first reading, including a Home Rule Plan amendment, a General Fund budget revision, pay plan changes, adoption of Fire Life Safety Codes, and auction of a surplus mobile home. Appointments were made to the Parking Authority and Human Rights Commission, with the latter approved by a 6-1 vote.

• Adopted Ordinance No. 1878 granting quitclaim easement to Ellis (unanimous)
• Introduced Home Rule Plan amendment ordinance, public hearing set for Feb 23
• Introduced General Fund budget revision ordinance, public hearing Feb 9
• Introduced pay plan amendment for vacant positions, public hearing Feb 9
• Introduced Fire Life Safety Codes adoption ordinance, public hearing Feb 9
• Introduced surplus mobile home auction ordinance, public hearing Feb 9
• Appointed Dan Swiger to Parking Authority (unanimous)
• Appointed 3 members to Human Rights Commission (6-1, Kennedy no vote)

Planning Commission

The Fairmont Planning Commission is meeting to approve minutes from September 16, 2020, and conduct routine business. The main items are reviewing the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and electing officers. No public hearings are scheduled for this meeting or the next one.

• Approval of September 16, 2020 minutes
• Review of Capital Improvement Plan (CIP)
• Election of officers
• No public hearings set for January 20 or February 19, 2021

The Fairmont Planning Commission approved the abandonment of a 15-foot right-of-way parcel between Lawrence Street and Marion Avenue, requested by James Burns and Anastasia Hilvers. The vote was unanimous, with no opposition voiced during the public hearing. The minutes also included approval of the previous meeting's minutes and no new business.

• Approved right-of-way abandonment for parcel between Lawrence St and Marion Ave (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from August 19, 2020 (6-0)

City Council

The Fairmont City Council is holding its regular meeting with no public hearings scheduled. The main business includes introducing two ordinances: one to amend the city's Home Rule Plan and another to grant a quitclaim easement over Morse Street for an existing encroachment. The council will also consider appointments to several boards and may enter executive session for personnel matters.

• Ordinance to amend Home Rule Plan
• Quitclaim easement over Morse Street for encroachment on parcel 263.1
• Appointment to Marion County Rescue Squad (term to Jan 24, 2023)
• Appointment to Convention and Visitors Bureau
• Appointment to Planning and Zoning Commission and Parks Commission

The council introduced two ordinances on first reading: one to submit an amended Home Rule Plan to the WV Municipal Home Rule Board (public hearing Feb 23, 2021) and one to grant a quitclaim easement to Michael and Rachel Ellis on Morse Street (public hearing Jan 26, 2021). It also made four unanimous appointments to county boards and commissions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Introduced ordinance to submit amended Home Rule Plan; public hearing set for Feb 23, 2021
• Introduced ordinance granting quitclaim easement to Michael and Rachel Ellis; public hearing set for Jan 26, 2021
• Appointed Tom Mainella to Marion County Rescue Squad (unanimous, term to Jan 24, 2023)
• Appointed Donna Blood to Convention and Visitors Bureau (unanimous, term to end of council term)
• Appointed Barry Bledsoe to Planning and Zoning Commission (unanimous, term to end of council term)
• Appointed Blair Montgomery to Fairmont Parks Commission (unanimous, term to end of council term)

City Council

This is the annual organizational meeting of the Fairmont City Council. The council will administer oaths to newly elected members, elect a mayor and deputy mayor, and adopt revised rules of order and procedure. No substantive legislation or public hearings are scheduled.

• Administer oath of office to councilmembers
• Election of mayor and deputy mayor
• Adoption of revised rules of order and procedure