In a recent Vienna City Council meeting, discussions centered on the controversial development of Spencer's Landing and the establishment of a steering committee to oversee the project. Council member Cuso emphasized the importance of community input and transparency in the planning process, highlighting a contract signed in July with the Thrasher Group, which included provisions for a steering committee to guide the development.

Despite the contract's stipulations, a resolution to form the steering committee was rejected, with Mayor Rapp, Councilman Leach, and Recorder Elam voting against it. Following this setback, Mayor Rapp appointed 15 individuals to the committee without council approval, a move that raised concerns about the committee's limited role, as the mayor suggested it would only develop a survey questionnaire.

Cuso contested this interpretation, asserting that the steering committee's responsibilities, as outlined in the Thrasher contract, extend far beyond merely creating a questionnaire. In response to concerns over transparency, Cuso sought an advisory opinion from the West Virginia Ethics Commission regarding the applicability of the Open Meetings Act to the steering committee's activities. The commission concluded that the committee qualifies as a governing body under the Act, necessitating public meetings.

In light of this advisory opinion, Cuso plans to propose a new resolution to formally establish the steering committee, ensuring its formation aligns with the city's other boards and is subject to council appointments. Cuso reiterated the importance of community involvement in the development of riverfront properties, stating that transparent operations are crucial for maintaining public trust and aligning projects with community vision.

The advisory opinion from the West Virginia Ethics Commission will be made available for public review on Cuso's Facebook page and website, furthering his commitment to transparency in local governance.