Residents rally against gas company land grabs
November 21, 2024 | Monongalia County, West Virginia
This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »
The Monongalia County Commission convened on November 20, 2024, with all three commissioners present to discuss a range of agenda items, including financial approvals, personnel changes, and public comments.
The meeting began with the approval of the consent agenda, which included two exonerations totaling $550.38 and a series of vouchers amounting to over $4.6 million across various funds, including general county, fire, and EMS levies. The commissioners also reviewed budget revisions requiring state approval for several departments, including law enforcement and central garage operations.
In personnel matters, the commission welcomed two new employees: Abigail Sarakowski as a part-time relief worker at the Youth Services Center and Caleb Hatch as a full-time volunteer supervisor for the Preston County branch of CASA for Kids, effective December 1, 2024.
During the public comment session, representatives from the Visit Mount Your Country Convention and Visitors Bureau provided updates on upcoming events and the new essential air service at Morgantown Municipal Airport, which will begin on December 13, 2024. This service, operated by SkyWest Airlines, will connect Morgantown to major cities like Washington, D.C., and Chicago, enhancing travel options for residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, Stella Henley and Catherine, destination development coordinators, highlighted their ongoing \"Leave No Trace\" program aimed at educating local fifth graders about environmental stewardship. They announced that over 2,000 students have been trained, and the program has received international recognition.
Mary Ann Folz, a local resident, raised concerns regarding a gas transmission project by Hope Gas affecting properties on Miracle Run Road. She described the situation as a \"land grab\" facilitated through eminent domain, which has left property owners unable to utilize their land effectively. Folz urged the commission to intervene and advocate for fair compensation for affected residents.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to address the concerns raised and to continue supporting community initiatives.
The meeting began with the approval of the consent agenda, which included two exonerations totaling $550.38 and a series of vouchers amounting to over $4.6 million across various funds, including general county, fire, and EMS levies. The commissioners also reviewed budget revisions requiring state approval for several departments, including law enforcement and central garage operations.
In personnel matters, the commission welcomed two new employees: Abigail Sarakowski as a part-time relief worker at the Youth Services Center and Caleb Hatch as a full-time volunteer supervisor for the Preston County branch of CASA for Kids, effective December 1, 2024.
During the public comment session, representatives from the Visit Mount Your Country Convention and Visitors Bureau provided updates on upcoming events and the new essential air service at Morgantown Municipal Airport, which will begin on December 13, 2024. This service, operated by SkyWest Airlines, will connect Morgantown to major cities like Washington, D.C., and Chicago, enhancing travel options for residents and visitors alike.
Additionally, Stella Henley and Catherine, destination development coordinators, highlighted their ongoing \"Leave No Trace\" program aimed at educating local fifth graders about environmental stewardship. They announced that over 2,000 students have been trained, and the program has received international recognition.
Mary Ann Folz, a local resident, raised concerns regarding a gas transmission project by Hope Gas affecting properties on Miracle Run Road. She described the situation as a \"land grab\" facilitated through eminent domain, which has left property owners unable to utilize their land effectively. Folz urged the commission to intervene and advocate for fair compensation for affected residents.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from the commissioners to address the concerns raised and to continue supporting community initiatives.
View full meeting
This article is based on a recent meeting—watch the full video and explore the complete transcript for deeper insights into the discussion.
View full meeting