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Fayette County approves $6,500 grant for Active Southern West Virginia timing equipment
Summary
The commission approved $6,500 for Active Southern West Virginia to buy race timing equipment, with the organization agreeing to report back in May on programs and impact.
The Fayette County Commission voted Feb. 6 to award Active Southern West Virginia $6,500 to buy race timing equipment, allowing the nonprofit to bring timing services in-house and reduce event costs.
Melies Tyler, identified herself as executive director of Active Southern West Virginia, told commissioners the group requested $6,500 to purchase timing equipment so it can avoid paying an outside timing company and invest savings back into free youth programs and races. Brandon Mailinger, described as the group's director of valued programs and events, provided participation and economic-impact figures: Active estimated its races produced $344,434 in regional economic activity in 2024 and race participation grew from 221 in 2016 to 1,243 in 2024.
Why it matters: County support is intended to keep entry costs lower for residents by lowering operating expenses for locally run races and programs that organizers say promote public health and bring economic activity to the county.
Board action: A commissioner moved to approve the $6,500 request, a second was recorded, and the commission approved the grant by voice vote. Commissioners invited the group to return in May with an annual report and slides on programs and participation.
What was not decided: Commissioners and staff did not specify the precise purchase order or vendor; Tyler said Active Southern West Virginia had received equipment quotes and was still finalizing which timing system to buy.
Ending: The commission expects Active Southern West Virginia to return in May with a report on programs and outcomes.
