Wheeling City Council approves $3M sewage system improvements and funding measures

The City of Wheeling Council convened on April 15, 2025, to address several key agenda items, focusing primarily on infrastructure improvements and financial measures related to the city's water and sewage systems.

The meeting began with a discussion on the benefits of a significant stormwater management project. Council members highlighted that the project aims to reduce the volume of water sent to the wastewater treatment plant, thereby saving costs and preventing combined sewer overflows into the Ohio River and Wheeling Creek during heavy rainfall. This initiative is seen as essential not only for environmental management but also for future urban development.

Following this, the council reviewed and approved the minutes from previous meetings, including those from the Hall of Fame, Arts and Cultural Commission, and Traffic Commission, which were all held over for further discussion.

The council then moved on to original propositions, where several ordinances were presented. Notably, an ordinance was introduced to authorize the acquisition and construction of improvements to the city's combined waterworks and sewage system. This includes financing through the issuance of up to $3 million in revenue bonds, aimed at enhancing the existing infrastructure.

Additionally, the council approved expenditures for various projects, including $81,750 for a new excavator for the Water Pollution Control Department and approximately $624,000 for street resurfacing in 2025. These expenditures are part of the city's ongoing efforts to maintain and improve public services.

The council also addressed the annual appropriation for the fiscal year 2025-2026 budget, which was approved after a second reading. Furthermore, a resolution was passed to waive procurement procedures for urgent repairs to the wastewater treatment plant due to flood-related damages from April 2024.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing Wheeling's infrastructure and managing its water resources effectively. The approved measures reflect a proactive approach to environmental sustainability and urban development, with follow-up actions planned to ensure the successful implementation of these initiatives.