Preston County public meetings in 2025

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will consider reappointing members to the Parks & Recreation and Economic Development Authority boards. The agenda also includes a review of bids for the Extension Demolition project and a report on the Sheriff's FY 24-25 settlement.

• Reappointment of Parks & Recreation board members (Dixon, Ervin, Kelly)
• Reappointment of EDA board members (Rotruck, Shockey, Teets, Evans)
• Review of Extension Demolition Bids
• Sheriff's FY 24-25 Settlement update
• Budget Revisions

The commission paid presented bills after a unanimous vote. It authorized the hiring of Javon Vanscoy and Madison Swope as Utility Officers for the sheriff's office. Board members for the Parks & Recreation Commission and the Economic Development Authority were reappointed to three‑year terms. The Annex and Courthouse were approved for closure from Dec. 24‑26, 2025.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Authorized hire of Javon Vanscoy, Utility Officer, start Jan. 2, 2026 (3-0)
• Authorized hire of Madison Swope, Utility Officer, start Jan. 2, 2026 (3-0)
• Reappointed Parks & Recreation board members Kevin Dixon, Carl Ervin, Jennifer Kelly (2-0, Thomas recused)
• Reappointed EDA board members Craig Rotruck, Bill Shockey, LaDeana Teets, Owen Evans (3-0)
• Approved closure of Annex and Courthouse Dec. 24‑26, 2025 (vote not specified)
• Moved to Executive Session for personnel matters (3-0)
• Moved to return to Open Session (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will hold a work session on December 17, 2025 at 10:30 a.m. in the County Commission Meeting Room, Kingwood. The agenda item is a discussion on financing new construction. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the notice.

• Discussion on financing new construction

Commissioners Thomas, Stone, and Smith voted unanimously to enter executive session at 10:30 a.m. and later voted unanimously to return to open session at 11:27 a.m. President Smith noted that no action resulted from the executive session. The work session was then adjourned.

• Entered executive session approved (3-0)
• Exited executive session approved (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will vote on a 911 SOG policy and an insurance claim for the Central Garage. Other agenda items include a proposal for transportation to treatment from the Opioid Advisory Board, approval of VOCA grant documents, and an update on the county EMS ordinance. The meeting also covers budget revisions and upcoming commission schedules.

• 9:31 am – Justin Wolfe, OEM/911: 911 SOG Policy Approval and Insurance Claim (Central Garage)
• 9:35 am – Opioid Advisory Board and Buckwheat Express: Proposal for Transportation to Treatment
• 9:40 am – Stacy Greaser, Prosecuting Attorney: VOCA Grant Approval Documents
• EMS Director Report: Update on EMS Ordinance
• County Administrator’s Report: Budget Revisions

The commission unanimously approved a new Standard Operating Guideline to route mental‑health crisis calls from 911 to the 988 hotline. It also approved the VOCA grant documents with a $1,043 contribution, settled an insurance claim for a totaled utility vehicle, and set tentative Board of Equalization meeting dates. Additional actions included approving estate settlements, a letter to the West Virginia State Surplus for Mount Grove Volunteer Fire Department, and the 2026 legal holiday schedule.

• Approved 911 SOG mental‑health diversion (3-0)
• Approved VOCA Grant Documents and $1,043 contribution (3-0)
• Approved total‑loss settlement for utility vehicle (3-0)
• Approved tentative Board of Equalization dates (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for three estates (3-0)
• Approved letter to WV State Surplus for Mount Grove Volunteer Fire Dept (3-0)
• Approved 2026 Legal Holiday Schedule (3-0)
• Approved November 19, 2025 work‑session minutes (3-0)

County Commission

The Commission will review budget revisions and a facilities update from the County Administrator. The body will also consider an update to the EMS Ordinance and a contribution to the Preston County Chamber of Commerce for Preston County Day.

• EMS Ordinance update
• Budget revisions
• Contribution to Preston County Chamber of Commerce for Preston County Day
• OEM/911 fleet vehicles insurance claim and procurement
• American 250 Mural Grant Program

The commission voted to surrender the totaled 2021 Chevy Tahoe and to purchase a new 2026 Chevy Tahoe for $57,177. It also approved the LEDG Resolution, paid presented bills, and authorized a $5,000 contribution for Preston County Day. Minutes from the November meetings and several estate settlements were approved, and the clerk’s report for the vacation period was accepted.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved LEDG Resolution and authorized commission president to sign (3-0)
• Approved surrender of the 2021 Chevy Tahoe to the insurance company (3-0)
• Approved purchase of a 2026 Chevy Tahoe for $57,177 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of the November 18 and 19, 2025 meetings (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for William Leroy Hall and Robert A. Liston (3-0)
• Approved clerk’s vacation report for Nov 27–Dec 3, 2025 (3-0)
• Authorized $5,000 for Preston County Day (2-1)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss the possible adoption of the ClearGov budgeting software. A health department representative will give an update on the Integrate Community Engagement (ICE) Collaborative. The board will also review estate settlements for three decedents and receive the County Administrator's report on meeting schedules and budget revisions. No other actions are listed for this meeting.

• Consideration of ClearGov budgeting software
• Health Department update on Integrate Community Engagement (ICE) Collaborative
• Review of estate settlements for Louise B. Queen, Constance R. Rohr, and Wanda Jean Wiles
• County Administrator’s report including upcoming meeting schedule and budget revisions
• Executive sessions scheduled for personnel and legal matters

The commission approved payment of all presented bills. It authorized a $5,000 transfer from the Opioid Settlement CD to the County Health Department. Estate settlements for three decedents were approved, and the Clerk’s fiduciary report for a November vacation period was accepted. The internal budget revision was approved and the ClearGov budgeting software discussion was tabled.

• Approved payment of presented bills (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved $5,000 transfer from Opioid Settlement CD to Health Dept (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved estate settlements for Louise B. Queen, Constance L. Rohr, Wanda Jean Wiles (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved Clerk’s fiduciary report for Nov 20‑26, 2025 (Stone, Thomas, Smith voted yes)
• Approved internal budget revision (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Tabled consideration of ClearGov budgeting software (decision to table, no vote recorded)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss contributions for the Tunnelton Linear Park section of the rail-trail and Preston County Day. The body will also review budget revisions and an amendment to the Outside Agency Funding Policy.

• Contribution to Parks and Recreation for Tunnelton Linear Park Section of Rail-Trail
• Contribution to the Preston County Chamber of Commerce for Preston County Day
• Amendment to the Outside Agency Funding Policy
• MOU for School Resource Officer
• Budget revisions

The Preston County Commission approved routine items such as bill payments, tax corrections, and minutes. It adopted the Outside Agency Funding Request Policy and approved a memorandum for a school resource officer. The commission also authorized a $30,000 contribution to the Tunnelton Linear Park Beautification Project, with a 2‑0 vote after Commissioner Thomas recused himself.

• Approved payment of bills (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List of $245.50 (3-0)
• Approved minutes from November 12, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for Rosemar y Hess and Gary James McCrobie (3-0)
• Dispensed reading of Clerk’s Fiduciary Report and approved it (3-0)
• Approved Outside Agency Funding Request Policy and supporting documents (3-0)
• Authorized $30,000 for Tunnelton Linear Park Beautification Project (2-0)
• Approved MOU for School-Based Law Enforcement Resource Officer at Preston High School (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission held a work session on the Opioid Advisory Board funding. After discussion, the commission chose to move forward with the Sheriff’s proposal for transporting individuals to treatment, contingent on legal and insurance clearance. If the Sheriff’s office cannot implement the plan, the commission will consider the Buckwheat Express proposal.

• Decided to pursue the Sheriff’s transportation proposal pending legal and insurance review; if infeasible, will consider the Buckwheat Express proposal

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss budget revisions and consider approving a HAVA security fund subgrant. A presentation by the Mills Group on conceptual designs for a new Sheriff’s Office will be given. The board will also review an amendment to the Outside Agency Funding Policy and receive updates on estate settlements and EMS advisory matters.

• Mills Group presentation on conceptual designs for Sheriff’s Office
• Amendment to the Outside Agency Funding Policy
• HAVA Security Fund Subgrant Application approval
• County budget revisions
• Estate settlements list for November 3‑7, 2025

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will hold a work session on Tuesday, November 18, 2025, at the OEM/E911 Center to discuss an EMS ordinance.

• Work session on EMS ordinance
• Location: OEM/E911 Center, 300 Rich Wolfe Drive, Kingwood
• Time: 5:00 p.m. on November 18, 2025

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will open with routine items such as roll call, public recognition, and review of bills. The main agenda item is a discussion of the Master Service Agreement Protect+. The County Administrator will present budget revisions and announce an EMS work session on November 18 and a Mills Group presentation on November 19. No new business or EMS director reports are scheduled.

• Discussion of Master Service Agreement Protect+ (contract)
• Presentation of budget revisions
• EMS work session scheduled for Nov 18, 5 pm at 911 Emergency Operations Center
• Mills Group presentation scheduled for Nov 19 commission meeting
• Estate settlement review for Maryan Elizabeth Rodeheaver

The commission approved several financial items, including payment of presented bills, a tax correction list of $379.26, and a budget revision covering rental space and shredding expenses. Minutes from the October 27 and 29 emergency sessions were approved, while the November 5 minutes were not approved. Estate settlement for Maryan Elizabeth Rodeheaver and the clerk’s fiduciary report for Oct 30–Nov 5 were also approved. Motions to enter and exit an executive session were approved.

• Approved payment of presented bills (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved Tax Correction List $379.26 (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved minutes of Oct 27 and Oct 29 emergency sessions (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Did not approve minutes of Nov 5, 2025 (no affirmative vote recorded)
• Approved estate settlement for Maryan Elizabeth Rodeheaver (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved clerk’s fiduciary report for Oct 30–Nov 5 (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved budget revision for rental space and shredding costs (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved motion to enter and later exit executive session (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will consider an EMS ordinance and related funding, review budget revisions presented by the County Administrator, and discuss a Food for Preston initiative. The meeting also includes a motion for a Fiduciary Commissioner order and routine reports.

• EMS Ordinance (discussion)
• EMS Funding (discussion)
• Budget Revisions (consideration)
• Discussion of Food for Preston
• Fiduciary Commissioner Order (motion)

The commission approved a $383,141 financing agreement for a new mini pumper truck for Albright Volunteer Fire Department. It also approved emergency funding of $11,000 for Terra Alta Ambulance payroll, $8,074.08 for KAMP Ambulance services, and a $5,000 food assistance grant for Food for Preston. Additionally, budget revisions for the County Clerk’s Office and Sheriff’s Department were approved.

• Approved $383,141 Albright Volunteer Fire Department equipment financing (Stone, Thomas, Smith yes)
• Approved $11,000 Terra Alta Ambulance emergency funding (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)
• Approved $8,074.08 KAMP Ambulance invoice payment (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)
• Approved $5,000 Food for Preston funding request (Thomas, Stone yes; Smith no)
• Approved budget revisions for County Clerk’s Office and Sheriff’s Department (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)
• Approved $1,888.32 Tax Correction List (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)
• Approved proclamation of National Hospice and Palliative Care Month (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)
• Approved estate settlements for listed estates (Thomas, Stone, Smith yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will consider the Operation Greenlight proclamation and a communication with Hampshire County MARL. They will review EMS emergency funding requests and proposed Halloween trick‑or‑treating hours. The meeting also includes a review of budget revisions and miscellaneous correspondence.

• Operation Greenlight Proclamation
• Hampshire County MARL Communication
• EMS Emergency Funding Requests
• Halloween Trick‑or‑Treating Times (Oct 31, 5:30 pm–7:00 pm)
• Budget Revisions

The Preston County Commission approved a budget revision to support EMS funding during the government shutdown. It also proclaimed Operation Greenlight for Veterans, approved a $535.70 tax correction list, and signed a lease with the Society for Preservation of McGrew House. Additional actions included approving estate settlements, letters of support to federal officials, the October 22 minutes, and payment of presented bills.

• Approved EMS budget revision (3-0)
• Approved Operation Greenlight proclamation (3-0)
• Approved $535.70 tax correction list (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for Lothry and Mattingly families (3-0)
• Approved lease with Society for Preservation of McGrew House (3-0)
• Approved letters of support to federal officials (3-0)
• Approved minutes from October 22, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission has called an emergency session for October 27, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. in Kingwood. The meeting will focus on funding for emergency medical services. No other agenda items are listed.

• EMS funding discussion

Commissioners identified a $16,000 payroll shortfall for KAMP Central Ambulance. A motion to provide that amount from the Coal Severance Contribution Fund was made, seconded, and approved unanimously. No further action resulted from the brief Executive Session.

• Approved $16,000 emergency contribution to KAMP Central Ambulance EMS payroll (3-0)
• Moved into Executive Session (3-0)
• Moved out of Executive Session (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission meeting on October 22, 2025 will review bills, estate settlements, and old business items including the Mills Group Extension Office demolition contract and the McGrew lease. New business includes hiring a commission employee and insulating the county animal shelter project. The meeting also features reports and discussions on EMS ordinance, the annex boiler bid, budget revisions, and other administrative matters.

• Mills Group Extension Office demolition contract
• McGrew lease
• Preston County Commission employee hire
• Insulation of animal shelter project
• Discussion of EMS ordinance

The Preston County Commission voted to reject every bid for the Annex Boiler Project and to reopen the bidding after the Facilities Manager is hired. It also approved several contracts, leases, and hires, including two new sheriff utility officers, a demolition contract, a lease with the McGrew Society, and a facilities supervisor. The Commission gave permission to seek three quotes for animal shelter insulation and approved a $2,193.28 tax correction payment.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List for $2,193.28 (3-0)
• Approved hiring of Utility Officer Doug Bolyard for Sheriff’s Dept (3-0)
• Approved hiring of Utility Officer Craig Barlow for Sheriff’s Dept (3-0)
• Approved Mills Group demolition contract for former Extension Office (3-0)
• Approved lease agreement with McGrew Society (3-0)
• Approved hiring of Larry Reaville as Facilities Supervisor ($24.50/hr, $50,960) (3-0)
• Rejected all Annex Boiler Project bids and ordered a rebid (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will hold a special session on October 16, 2025 at 9:30 a.m. in the County Commission Meeting Room, Kingwood. The agenda item is to conduct interviews for the position of Facilities Supervisor/Manager. No decisions are indicated; the session is for personnel interviewing.

• Facilities Supervisor/Manager interview

The commission voted to go into Executive Session for personnel matters and later voted to return to the open meeting. Both motions were carried with all three commissioners voting yes. No substantive action resulted from the Executive Session, and the special session was then adjourned.

• Approved motion to enter Executive Session (3-0)
• Approved motion to exit Executive Session (3-0)
• Adjourned the special session (no vote recorded)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will review sealed bids for the Annex Boiler Project presented by the County Administrator. The body will also consider an EMS ordinance update and budget revisions.

• Sealed bids for Annex Boiler Project
• EMS Ordinance Update
• Budget Revisions
• Estate settlements for Nancy Elizabeth Love and William Charles Smith

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss budget revisions, a lease for McGrew, and updates to the county website. The body is also considering facility updates including PM contracts and a Seal Engineering scope proposal.

• Assessor's Office exonerations for Blockchain Power Corp, Sisler Kambra D, and Street Stephanie F
• Seal Engineering scope proposal
• Mills Group Master Plan update
• McGrew lease
• Preston County Parks and Recreation appointments

The commission appointed Logan Chapman and Emily Chapman as new commissioners to fill expired seats. It approved a tax correction list of $280,334.80 and a $10,800 HVAC preventative‑maintenance contract. The budget revision for the Sheriff’s Office contract pay and a proclamation of Domestic Violence Awareness Month were also approved. All motions carried with unanimous or majority yes votes.

• Appointed Logan Chapman as commissioner (Stone and Smith voted yes)
• Appointed Emily Chapman as commissioner (Stone and Smith voted yes)
• Approved Tax Correction List $280,334.80 (Stone, Thomas, Smith voted yes)
• Approved HVAC preventative‑maintenance contract $10,800 (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved budget revision for Sheriff’s Office contract pay (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Proclaimed October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved payment of presented bills (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved minutes of October 1, 2025 (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss and act on several items, including signing a 2025 HAVA security sub‑grant. Commissioners will also review the MARL Transmission Line PSC hearing and consider a contribution to the KVFD/KAMP Buckwheat Festival. Budget revisions, such as the Sheriff’s Office contract pay, will be examined, along with EMS ordinance updates.

• Discussion of MARL Transmission Line PSC hearing
• Contribution to KVFD/KAMP for Preston County Buckwheat Festival
• Signing of 2025 HAVA Security Sub‑Grant
• Budget revision: Sheriff's Office contract pay
• EMS updates on ordinance and service territories

The Preston County Commission authorized a $15,000 HAVA sub‑grant to replace batteries in voter machines. The motion was moved by Commissioner Stone, seconded by Commissioner Thomas, and approved unanimously. Several other routine items were also approved, including bill payments and the September 24 minutes.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3‑0)
• Approved Tax Correction List of $1,859.24 (3‑0)
• Proclaimed October 2025 as Breast Cancer Awareness Month (3‑0)
• Reappointed Alcinda Shockey to NCWV Community Action Board (3‑0)
• Approved minutes of September 24, 2025 (3‑0)
• Approved estate settlements for listed estates (3‑0)
• Authorized $15,000 HAVA subgrant for voter machine battery replacements (3‑0)
• Approved budget revision for Sheriff's Office contract pay (3‑0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will review a Master Plan contract from A. Mills Group and receive a litigation funds check from Mullens & Mullens. The body will also consider budget revisions for Sheriff's Office contract pay and a WVCFIA grant approval.

• A. Mills Group Master Plan contract approval
• Opioid Litigation Funds check presentation from Mullens & Mullens
• Budget revisions for Sheriff’s Office contract pay
• WVCFIA Grant approval
• Vietnam Veterans of America #977 application to use Courthouse Lawn on Veteran’s Day 2025

The Preston County Commission unanimously approved a contract with the Mills Group for architectural services and space planning, valued at $76,500. It also approved several other items, including payment of presented bills, a $1,386.54 tax correction list, and the use of the courthouse lawn for a Veteran’s Day event. Additional approvals covered a litigation signing authorization, a facilities improvement grant, a budget revision for the Sheriff’s Office, and estate settlements for three estates.

• Approved payment of presented bills (yes)
• Approved Tax Correction List $1,386.54 (yes)
• Authorized Don Smith to sign documents for civil action No. 5:24-CV-142 (yes)
• Approved $76,500 Mills Group master plan contract (yes)
• Approved Vietnam Veterans of America use of courthouse lawn on Veteran’s Day (yes)
• Approved Courthouse Facilities Improvement Grant resolution (yes)
• Approved budget revision for Sheriff’s Office contract pay (yes)
• Approved estate settlements for Steven R. Carpenter, Janice G. Sisler, Michael Eugene St. Clair (yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will hold a work session to discuss upcoming county facilities projects. No formal decisions are scheduled for this meeting.

• Discussion of upcoming county facilities projects

Commissioners met with engineering firms to review observations, findings, and recommendations for correcting water intrusion at the Preston County Courthouse. They also received an opinion on the structural condition of the Sheriff’s Office and evaluated demolition options and cost estimates. The session concluded with no formal decisions, approvals, or votes recorded.

County Commission

The Preston County Commission meeting on September 17, 2025 will consider several items, including a resolution for the Bionic Tire‑Industrial Access Road. Other agenda items include a proclamation for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, an appointment to the Civil Service Commission, and budget revisions covering extra help for the Tax Office and distribution of ARPA funds. Reports will also be given on EMS ordinance updates, the Sheriff’s Office financial statements, and adult education proclamations.

• County Commission Resolution; Bionic Tire‑Industrial Access Road (IAR)
• Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Proclamation
• Civil Service Commission Appointment
• Budget revisions: Tax Office extra help and ARPA Fund distribution
• EMS updates on ordinance and service territories

The Preston County Commission approved several items, including payment of presented bills, multiple proclamations, estate settlements, and a $400,000 resolution supporting Bionic Tire’s Industrial Access Road application. They also appointed James D. Fields to the Civil Service Commission and approved the budget revisions for FY2026. All motions passed with a unanimous 3‑0 vote.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved proclamation of Constitution Week Sep 17‑23, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved proclamation of National Adult Education & Family Literacy Week Sep 15‑19, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved minutes of Sep 10, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved estate settlement for Sandra J. Queen (3-0)
• Approved clerk’s fiduciary report for Sep 4‑10, 2025 (3-0)
• Appointed James D. Fields to Civil Service Commission (3-0)
• Approved $400,000 Bionic Tire Industrial Access Road resolution (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will vote on requests for the KVFD Buckwheat Festival and on letters of support for the FEMA ACT. The meeting also includes discussion of a McGrew lease, a Civil Service Commission appointment, and budget revisions presented by the County Administrator. Additional reports on facilities, EMS, and personnel will be considered, with some items slated for executive session.

• Approval of KVFD Buckwheat Festival requests
• Approval of FEMA ACT letters of support
• Budget revisions (County Administrator’s Report)
• McGrew Lease Discussion (Old Business)
• Civil Service Commission Appointment (Old Business)

The Preston County Commission approved several items, including payment of outstanding bills, a tax correction list of $2,324.44, and the hiring of a part‑time Assistant Prosecuting Attorney at $40,000 per year. It also approved the minutes from September 3, estate settlements, the dispensing of a clerk’s fiduciary report, and the use of the courthouse lawn and ATVs for the KVFD Buckwheat Festival. The most consequential action was the approval of budget revisions for the Sheriff’s Office contract pay.

• Approved payment of bills (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List $2,324.44 (3-0)
• Approved hire of Kyler Carlisle as part‑time Assistant Prosecuting Attorney, $40K/yr (3-0)
• Approved minutes of September 3, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for listed estates (3-0)
• Approved dispensing of Clerk’s fiduciary report reading (3-0)
• Approved KVFD Buckwheat Festival use of courthouse lawn and ATVs (3-0)
• Approved budget revisions for Sheriff’s Office contract pay (3-0)

County Commission

The Commission will meet to review financial statements and discuss FY 25-26 carryover. The agenda includes updates on opioid litigation and a request regarding EMS equipment matching. The body will also consider budget revisions and personnel and legal matters in executive session.

• Opioid litigation update from Matthew Ervin of Mullens & Mullens
• Consideration of Henry McDonald EMS Equipment Match
• Action on FY 25-26 Carryover
• Review of budget revisions
• Financial statement update from Chief Tax Deputy Becky Zuchowski

County Commission

The Preston County Commission will discuss requesting that the WV Public Service Commission and Governor Morrisey oppose the MARL Project. The body will also review budget revisions and various grant and lease agreements.

• Request to deny approval of the MARL Project
• Approval of WVU Research Corp Agreement (Opioid Settlement-ICE Collaborative)
• Approval of Community Correction Grant Documents
• Approval of McGrew Lease
• Budget revisions

The Preston County Commission approved a letter of opposition to the Mid‑Atlantic Resiliency Link (MARL) Project to be sent to the West Virginia Public Service Commission, and also approved a letter to Governor Morrisey requesting his opposition to the same project. Both motions were moved by Commissioner Stone, seconded by Commissioner Thomas, and passed with all three commissioners voting yes. The commission also approved several personnel hires, grant authorizations, and routine administrative items.

• Approved opposition letter to Public Service Commission on MARL Project (3-0)
• Approved opposition letter to Governor Morrisey on MARL Project (3-0)
• Approved hiring of David Bissett as Sheriff Utility Officer, $35,000/yr salary (3-0)
• Approved hiring of Darren Hall in Assessor’s Office, $33,280 annual salary (3-0)
• Approved Community Corrections Grant conditions and authorized President to sign (3-0)
• Approved WVU Research Corporation Opioid Settlement agreement and authorized President to sign (3-0)
• Approved McGrew Lease addendum (3-0)
• Approved minutes for July 23, July 30, and August 6, 2025 (3-0)

County Commission

The commission voted to rescind the July 15 budget revision for FY 2025‑2026 salary adjustments and then approved a new budget revision. It also approved payment of presented bills, an exoneration list for $9,353.88, and the listed apportionments. Additionally, three new employee positions were authorized. All votes were 3‑0 in favor.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved Exoneration List $9,353.88 (3-0)
• Accepted apportionments for Michael Allen and Bohon Justin (3-0)
• Authorized hire of Dorina Braniff, full‑time $30K (3-0)
• Authorized hire of Celeste Rankin, full‑time $27K (3-0)
• Authorized hire of Linda Lewis, part‑time up to 20 hrs (3-0)
• Rescinded July 15 budget revision for FY 2025‑2026 salary adjustments (3-0)
• Approved revised FY 2025‑2026 budget (3-0)

County Commission

Commissioners Stone, Thomas and Smith voted 3‑0 to move the meeting into Executive Session for personnel matters. Later, the same three commissioners voted 3‑0 to return to the Emergency Session. The commission was briefed on a mold remediation protocol for the courthouse and discussed temporary relocation of the Probation Office, but no further actions were decided.

• Moved into Executive Session for personnel (3-0)
• Returned to Emergency Session (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved several actions, including payment of presented bills, the FY 25‑26 VOCA grant, and the minutes of recent special sessions. It also accepted the Fiduciary Fund letter, appointed Ashley Cole as Fiduciary Supervisor, and approved the FY 25‑26 Coal Severance Carryover and two budget revisions. All motions passed with Commissioners Thomas, Stone and Smith voting yes.

• Approved payment of presented bills (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved FY 25‑26 VOCA Grant Application (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved minutes of multiple special sessions (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved and confirmed Clerk’s vacation proceedings (Stone, Thomas, Smith voted yes)
• Accepted Fiduciary Fund Letter authorizing President to sign (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Appointed Ashley Cole as Fiduciary Supervisor effective July 16 2025 (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved FY 25‑26 Coal Severance Carryover (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)
• Approved two budget revisions (Thomas, Stone, Smith voted yes)

County Commission

The commission approved several financial items, including payment of bills, a $1,062.32 tax correction list, and apportionments for Stacey & Melissa Hixenbaugh. It also approved estate settlements, the clerk’s fiduciary report, and created a new County Fiduciary Fund at Clear Mountain Bank. Additionally, the commission hired James Wiley as a Community Corrections case manager with a $42,000 annual salary. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List of $1,062.32 (3-0)
• Approved apportionments for Stacey & Melissa Hixenbaugh (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for June 23‑26, 2025 (2-0)
• Approved Clerk’s fiduciary report for June 25‑July 2, 2025 (3-0)
• Approved creation of County Fiduciary Fund at Clear Mountain Bank (3-0)
• Approved hiring of James Wiley as Community Corrections case manager, $42,000/yr (3-0)

County Commission

The commission voted to enter into an agreement with the West Virginia University Research Corporation, effective August 1, 2025, contingent on hiring a coordinator. The motion was made by Commissioner Smith, seconded by Commissioner Thomas, and approved unanimously by Commissioners Smith, Thomas, and Stone. The sheriff’s proposal for a multi‑jurisdictional drug task force was presented but no action was taken.

• Approved agreement with West Virginia University Research Corporation (effective Aug 1, 2025) – unanimous yes
• No action taken on sheriff’s proposal for multi‑jurisdictional drug task force

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved payment of pending bills, authorized the Homeland Security Grant closeout, and approved temporary employee hires for the Assessor's office for two fiscal years. It also adopted a Fiduciary Supervisor System, approved the minutes from three prior meetings, and accepted the presented budget revisions. Commissioners agreed to close county offices on July 3, 2025 for an extra holiday day.

• Approved payment of bills (3-0)
• Approved Homeland Security Grant Closeout Document and authorized Commissioner Stone to sign (3-0)
• Approved Assessor's temporary help hires for 2024-2025 budget (3-0)
• Approved Assessor's temporary help hires for 2025-2026 budget (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 28, June 4 and June 11, 2025 (3-0)
• Adopted Fiduciary Supervisor System (3-0)
• Approved budget revisions presented by the County Administrator (3-0)
• Agreed to close county offices on July 3, 2025 for an extra holiday day

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved payment of presented bills and authorized several new hires, including a Utility Officer, a Home Confinement Officer, and an EMS Director. It also adopted a Fiduciary Supervisor System, approved a signatory change for county accounts, and authorized fire alarm and panic‑button monitoring contracts with BH Security LLC. All motions carried with a 3‑yes vote.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Authorized hiring of Madison Brown as Utility Officer (3-0)
• Authorized hiring of Michael Rocha as Home Confinement Officer (3-0)
• Authorized hiring of Henry T. McDonald, Jr. as EMS Director (3-0)
• Approved order to adopt Fiduciary Supervisor System (3-0)
• Approved signatory letter adding David Sypolt and removing Linda Huggins (3-0)
• Authorized fire alarm contract with BH Security LLC (3-0)
• Authorized Panic Buttons Monitoring contract with BH Security LLC (3-0)

County Commission

Commissioners Thomas and Stone voted to enter an executive session for personnel matters. They later voted to leave the executive session. No substantive actions or decisions were made during the session.

• Entered executive session (2-0)
• Exited executive session (2-0)

County Commission

The commission voted 2-0 to go into executive session for personnel matters, then voted 2-0 to return to open session. No actions resulted from the executive session. The special session was adjourned at 4:01 p.m.

• Motion to enter executive session approved (2-0)
• Motion to exit executive session approved (2-0)
• Special session adjourned

County Commission

The Preston County Commission held a special session on June 18, 2025 to hold a public hearing on creating the Office of Fiduciary Supervisor. Commissioners discussed West Virginia Code §44-3A-1(B) and instructed that within 60 days an order be drafted and official action taken. No further business was considered and the session was adjourned.

• Advised drafting an order to create the Office of Fiduciary Supervisor within 60 days

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved a contract with Pitney Bowes for an IMI‑compliant USPS mail machine. It also approved the FY 2025‑26 salary schedule for commission employees and appointed Kathy Mace to the Building Commission. Additional actions included approving estate settlements, a letter of support for the Kingwood Pool project, and appointing two members to the PSD #1 Board. All motions passed with a 3‑yes, 0‑no vote.

• Approved Pitney Bowes USPS mail machine contract (3-0)
• Approved FY 25‑26 Preston County Commission salary schedule (3-0)
• Appointed Kathy Mace to Building Commission, retroactive to June 1 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Letter of Support for Kingwood Parks & Recreation – Kingwood Pool (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for Delroy R Davis Jr and Kermit M Hartley (3-0)
• Approved Clerk’s vacation fiduciary report (June 5‑11 2025) (3-0)
• Appointed Justin Icard to PSD #1 Board (3-0)
• Appointed Johnny Bishoff to PSD #1 Board (3-0)

County Commission

The commission voted to enter an executive session for personnel matters, then later voted to exit that session. They also approved the hiring of Ms. Ashley Turbi as Assistant Administrator, with a salary of $45,000 per year, starting July 1 2025, subject to drug screening, background check, and a three‑month probation. All three commissioners voted yes on each motion.

• Entered Executive Session for personnel (3-0)
• Exited Executive Session (3-0)
• Approved hiring of Ashley Turbi as Assistant Administrator, $45,000 salary (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission appointed David Sypolt to serve as County Clerk starting July 1, 2025. The Commission also approved several budget revisions, grant reimbursements, and personnel changes. All motions were adopted with a unanimous 3‑0 vote.

• Appointed David Sypolt as County Clerk (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List for $78.98 (3-0)
• Approved title and status changes for Justin Wolfe and Duane Hamilton (3-0)
• Approved HSGP Grant Reimbursement request (3-0)
• Approved SLCGP Grant Reimbursement request (3-0)
• Approved budget revisions for OEM/911, Assessor, and Prosecuting Attorney offices (3-0)
• Approved change of status for employee Angela Whetsell to part‑time ≤$25,000 salary (3-0)
• Approved Budget Revision Policy effective July 1, 2025 (3-0)

County Commission

The commission approved several routine items, including payment of bills, a $63.28 tax correction list, and the 2025 real and personal property land books. They hired Barbara Self as a part‑time employee in the Sheriff’s Tax Office at $16 per hour. The most consequential action was the approval of the Sheriff’s Office budget revisions.

• Approved payment of presented bills (unanimous yes)
• Approved Tax Correction List of $63.28 (unanimous yes)
• Approved hire of Barbara Self, part‑time, $16/hr (unanimous yes)
• Approved 2025 Real Property and Personal Property Land Books (unanimous yes)
• Approved minutes of May 7, May 19, and May 14 sessions (unanimous yes)
• Approved estate settlement list for Billy L. Hovatter (unanimous yes)
• Dispensed with reading Clerk’s fiduciary report and approved it (unanimous yes)
• Approved budget revisions for the Preston County Sheriff’s Office (unanimous yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission voted unanimously to adopt a resolution opposing the Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link Project. The commission also approved hires of Teresa Tennant as Deputy County Clerk at $32,000 per year and Chris Volk as IT Director at $80,000 per year. Additional actions included approving EMPG grant lobbying documents, changing the 911 operating guideline on trees in roadways, and adopting budget revisions presented by the sheriff, administrator, and OEM/E911. All motions were carried with votes from Commissioners Thomas, Stone, and Smith.

• Adopted resolution opposing Mid-Atlantic Resiliency Link Project (3-0)
• Approved hire of Teresa Tennant as Deputy County Clerk, $32,000/yr (3-0)
• Approved hire of Chris Volk as IT Director, $80,000/yr ($38.47/hr) (3-0)
• Approved EMPG Grant lobbying documents for President to sign (3-0)
• Approved change to 911 Operating Guideline on “Trees in the Roadway” (3-0)
• Approved budget revisions for Sheriff’s Office, Administrator, and OEM/E911 (3-0)
• Approved Outside Agency Funding Policy and supporting documents (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 7, 2025 (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved several routine items, including payment of outstanding bills and budget revisions. It authorized the City of Kingwood to use the courthouse lawn for Summerfest 2025 and approved a Homeland Security grant reimbursement. The board also approved a $8,686.65 invoice to purchase a fire rescue boat for the Bruceton‑Brandonville Volunteer Fire Department and adopted a resolution for the Friends of the Cheat bridge rehabilitation grant. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved payment of county bills (3-0)
• Approved City of Kingwood use of courthouse lawn for Summerfest 2025 (3-0)
• Approved Homeland Security grant reimbursement (3-0)
• Approved Extension Office budget revision (3-0)
• Approved minutes of May 1, 2025 emergency session (3-0)
• Approved clerk's vacation report (3-0)
• Approved $8,686.65 VFD boat invoice to Inmar Marine Group (3-0)
• Approved Friends of the Cheat bridge rehabilitation grant resolution (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission held a work session to discuss water intrusion at the courthouse and possible repairs. They reviewed a proposal from The Mills Group to connect the courthouse and sheriff’s building with a new three‑level office space and agreed to schedule a programming meeting with office holders. The commission also talked about buying the Naylor Building, traffic concerns on Court Street, and roof repairs at the McGrew House, noting that estimates and further information will be gathered.

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved the FY 25-26 budget revisions, accepted the resignation of County Clerk Linda Huggins, and appointed Charise O’Shell Peddicord to the Board of Health for a five‑year term. It also approved payment of presented bills, a $592.70 tax correction list, estate settlements for two estates, and the dispensing of the clerk’s vacation report. All motions passed with unanimous votes.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved Tax Correction List of $592.70 (3-0)
• Accepted Clerk Linda Huggins' resignation (3-0)
• Appointed Charise O’Shell Peddicord to Board of Health (3-0)
• Approved FY 25-26 budget revisions (3-0)
• Approved estate settlements for Terry Lyn Donk and Debbie Dian Dunn (3-0)
• Dispensed reading of Clerk’s vacation report and approved it (3-0)
• Approved minutes of April 30, 2025 (3-0)

County Commission

The commission met on May 7, 2025 for a work session with the Department of Highways to receive updates on county projects, bridge conditions, and maintenance plans. Speakers included the district manager, a local preservation group, and the director of engineering. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled during the session.

County Commission

The commission decided to follow the structural engineer's advice and remove all personnel from the Extension Service Office at 115 West Court Street. Employees will be relocated to the third floor of the Annex building, and essential equipment will be moved to restore operations. Files belonging to the Circuit Clerk will be transferred to the bottom of the commission building, and staff will obtain keyless‑entry fobs at the 911 Center.

• Removed all personnel from the Extension Service Office
• Relocated employees to the 3rd floor of the Annex building
• Planned to move essential office items to the Annex building
• Moved Circuit Clerk files to the bottom of the commission building
• Scheduled keyless‑entry fob photos for employees at the 911 Center

County Commission

The commission voted to approve the county's budget revisions, which include a $23,000 OEM grant and a $57,000 purchase of a Sheriff’s Tahoe. It also approved hiring Deputy Circuit Clerk Debra Wolfe at a $30,000 salary and authorized a change of scope for ARPA funds for the Newburg water line extension. Several items were tabled or not approved, such as the Bruceton‑Brandonville VFD water‑rescue gear request and the EMS Director job description.

• Approved payment of presented bills (3-0)
• Approved hiring Deputy Circuit Clerk Debra Wolfe, $30,000 salary (3-0)
• EMS Director Job Description not approved (2-1)
• Approved Letter of Good Standing for Terra Alta Community Ambulance Squad (3-0)
• Approved Mt. Grove VFD tax‑exempt financing agreement (3-0)
• Approved change of scope/use of ARPA funds for Newburg water line extension (3-0)
• Approved all budget revisions, including $23,000 OEM grant and $57,000 Sheriff’s Tahoe purchase (3-0)
• Bruceton‑Brandonville VFD water‑rescue gear funding request tabled

County Commission

The Preston County Commission voted to extend the McGrew Society lease through June 30, 2025, and approved several funding items including a $12,500 STOP/VAWA grant match, a $200 Homeland Security grant down‑payment, and a $23,556 equipment purchase. The body also adopted the Fair Housing Resolution, the 2025‑2026 fiscal year budget, and a revised CASA for Kids application. All motions were carried with Commissioners Thomas, Stone and Smith voting yes.

• Approved payment of presented bills (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Extended McGrew Society lease to June 30, 2025 (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Approved STOP/VAWA grant matching funds up to $12,500 (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Authorized $200 Homeland Security Grant down‑payment for UTV (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Approved $23,556 equipment purchase for NAS hardware and laptop (vote yes by Stone, Thomas, Smith)
• Adopted Fair Housing Resolution (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Approved 2025‑2026 fiscal year budget (E911 budget documents) (vote yes by Thomas, Stone, Smith)
• Approved revised CASA for Kids application date change (vote yes by Stone, Thomas, Smith)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved the regular current expense levy and the levy order and rate sheet for fiscal year 2025‑2026. It also adopted a $2,360 purchase of winter banners for Newburg, contributed up to $10,000 for park lawn care, hired a part‑time animal shelter employee, approved the budget revision, and rescinded a recently adopted trees‑in‑roadway policy. All motions were carried with the votes recorded in the minutes.

• Approved the 2025‑2026 Regular Current Expense Levy (3-0)
• Approved the Levy Order, Rate Sheet, Excess Levy and Fire Levy for 2025‑2026 (3-0)
• Approved purchase of 21 winter banners for Newburg for $2,360 (2-1)
• Approved contribution of up to $10,000 to Preston County Parks & Recreation for lawn care (2-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved hire of Gracie Wilson as part‑time animal shelter employee at $12/hr (3-0)
• Approved the budget revision presented by the County Administrator (3-0)
• Rescinded the Trees in Roadway 911 SOG policy change (3-0)
• Approved the Tax Correction List dated April 15, 2025, in the amount of $39.88 (3-0)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission approved several contracts and budget items, including a $18,170 estimate to repair drainage in the Sheriff’s Department basement. Other approvals covered a $16,564 roof replacement for the commission meeting room, $13,425 landscaping around the county annex, $13,025 sealcoating of all parking lots, a $1,888.48 tax correction list, and budget revisions for OEM/E911. The board also reappointed Owen Evans to the 911 Advisory Board and authorized the courthouse lawn for a CASA for Kids event.

• Approved $16,564 roof replacement for commission meeting room (yes)
• Approved $13,425 landscaping around county annex (yes)
• Approved $18,170 drainage repair for Sheriff’s Department basement (yes)
• Approved $13,025 sealcoating of all county parking lots (yes)
• Approved Tax Correction List $1,888.48 (yes)
• Approved budget revisions for OEM/E911 (yes)
• Reappointed Owen Evans to 911 Advisory Board (yes)
• Authorized use of courthouse lawn for CASA for Kids on April 18 (yes)

County Commission

The Preston County Commission voted to adopt the amended Flood Plain Ordinance. It also authorized the McGrew House lawn for the County Seat Farmers Market, approved up to $8,000 for the Shield Program, and approved an $8,750 quote for a fresh‑air intake system at the Annex. All motions passed with unanimous yes votes.

• Approved amended Flood Plain Ordinance (3-0)
• Authorized McGrew House lawn for Farmers Market June‑Oct 2025 (3-0)
• Approved funding up to $8,000 for the Shield Program (3-0)
• Approved $8,750 quote for fresh‑air intake system in the Annex (3-0)
• Approved payment of presented county bills (3-0)
• Approved minutes for March 5 and March 11, 2025 (3-0)