Monongue County Commission approves $500K lease amendment for Development Authority repairs

The Monongalia County Commission convened on April 30, 2025, to discuss a significant amendment and restatement of a lease agreement with the Monongalia County Development Authority concerning the Wards Building. This meeting highlighted the financial challenges faced by the Development Authority and the collaborative efforts to address necessary repairs and operational needs.

The original lease agreement, signed in December 2016, established a 20-year term with a five-year grace period for payments on a purchase price of $500,000 for the building, valued at $1.5 million. However, after nine years, the Development Authority is struggling financially, particularly due to obligations stemming from the Richwood agreement. The elevator, crucial for access to the building's third floor, is in need of replacement, and a main waterline requires significant repairs.

To assist, the Commission proposed a grant agreement of $500,000 to fund the elevator replacement and waterline repairs. This amount includes $370 allocated specifically for these repairs and $130 for dues to the Monongalia Area Partnership (MAP) for the fiscal year 2026. The new agreement also formalizes MAP's presence in the building and includes provisions for a payment in lieu of taxes for non-government renters.

The purchase price for the building has been adjusted to $1 million, with a structured payment plan allowing the Development Authority to repay $50,000 annually over the next 20 years, starting July 1, 2025. The agreement also includes a right of first refusal for MAP should the Development Authority decide to sell the building in the future.

Commission members expressed their commitment to maintaining the building as a valuable asset for the community, emphasizing the importance of a functional elevator for its continued use. The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote to approve the agreement, marking a significant step in ensuring the building's operational viability and supporting local development efforts.