Public Meetings - St Albans, West Virginia

The St. Albans City Council met on the date provided as June 2, 2026, though the transcript opens with "Monday, June 1st." The meeting included approvals of several ordinances, financial measures, committee reports, public comments, and appointments. The transcript occasionally refers to "City of St. August," likely a transcription error for St. Albans. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the May 18, 2026, City Council meeting. - Petition and first reading for an administrative resubdivision of tax parcels 203 and 206 along Drew Street (submitted by Diane Sue Wood). - Second reading: an ordinance approving three sewer system improvement projects and setting rates, fees, and charges for sewer service. - Second reading: an ordinance approving three water system improvement projects and setting rates, fees, and charges for water service. - Third reading: an ordinance authorizing the acquisition and construction of waterworks improvements, financing through issuance of not more than $4,500,000 in combined waterworks and sewer system revenue bonds (Series 2026 A) via the West Virginia Infrastructure Fund, and related provisions. Public Comments & Testimony - Tracy Moss (2636 Moreau Avenue, Ornits Park) addressed the council regarding a playground at the corner of Furlong Avenue. She reported the playground has had a missing slide for two years, creating a nearly nine-foot fall hazard, and that the footing is not compliant with the Consumer Product Safety Commission's public playground safety handbook (trip hazards, inadequate protection). She also requested maintenance of the green space between Roe Avenue and the railroad, where dead trees and fallen limbs have created mosquito breeding grounds and an eyesore. Public works representative "John Boy" said he would inspect the tree issue, and parks representative Kevin agreed to discuss the playground after the meeting. Discussion Items - Finance Committee Report: Motions included approval of current invoices (amount of $15,194) and participation in a federal paving project with the West Virginia Department of Highways and the Regional Intergovernmental Council (RIC) at a cost of $104,387. Discussion centered on whether the roads needed the work and the requirement to make sidewalks ADA-certified. Both motions passed. - Public works purchasing request: The original budget for an item was $90,000, with a noted increase to approximately $100,130. A resolution for the purchase of a "back of the country residence" and $3,000 to be reimbursed by MUC were also approved. - Formation of a comprehensive plan: The council approved starting the development of a city comprehensive plan, required by state code. Jasper Baum (RIC) explained the process will involve the planning and zoning committee and community input, referencing the existing 2014 plan. Only a few council members had seen the current plan. - Pool update: A leak at the city pool has been remedied, but the pool is 40 years old (lifespan typically 25-30 years). A council member noted that band-aid repairs are no longer sufficient and that planning for a major replacement or renovation should begin soon, potentially using grants. - Ordinance committee meeting: A scheduled meeting was postponed to respect the absence of Councilman Knight, who was on vacation, as the agenda included his proposed changes to a voting ordinance (TNC). Key Outcomes - All ordinances (first, second, and third readings) and resolutions passed unanimously by voice vote, with no recorded opposition. - Appointments approved: CPA as interim city treasurer; Barbara Foster to the Planning and Zoning Commission (term expiring June 30, 2029); Don Monrose and Dom Burford to the Zoning Board of Adjustments (terms expiring June 30, 2029); and Bill Blake (Council), Marshall Cheney (non-civil service), Jacob Dent (civil service), and Chris Schock (MUC) to the Personnel Grievance Committee (terms expiring June 30, 2027). - No actions or votes were taken during executive session, which was noted as discussion only. Announcements & Upcoming Events - Committee meetings: Public Works (June 3, 8 a.m. at City Garage), Parks (June 4, 6 p.m. at McKinley Rec Center), Finance (June 8, 4:30 p.m. in MUC conference room). - City Council next meeting: June 15, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the McKinley Rec Center cafeteria (pending relocation of a water tank, estimated cost a couple thousand dollars). - MUC Board meeting: June 16, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. in MUC conference room. - Community events: Roadside Park events (June 12, 13, 22); St. Albans Feast Day celebrations (June 22 at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, June 27 at Roadside Park); The Moving Wall (Vietnam Veterans Memorial replica) at the Kmart parking lot June 25–29 with opening ceremony June 27 at 11 a.m.

The St. Albans City Council held a regular meeting on May 18, 2026, at the McKinley Recreation Center. Key agenda items included approval of minutes, first readings of ordinances for water and sewer system improvement projects with rate adjustments, a bonding ordinance for water meter replacement, approval of invoices, and various committee reports and announcements. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public forum. Discussion Items - Praise and Recognition: Council members thanked parks employees, election workers, and city hall staff for smooth early voting operations. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the May 4, 2026, city council meeting were approved unanimously. - First Reading: Sewer System Improvement Projects: An ordinance approving three sewer system improvement projects and setting rate fees and charges for sewer customers was introduced. A public hearing and second reading are scheduled for June 1, 2026. The motion passed unanimously. - First Reading: Water System Improvement Projects: An ordinance approving three water system improvement projects and setting rate fees and charges for water customers was introduced. A public hearing and second reading are scheduled for June 1, 2026. The motion passed unanimously. - Discussion on Projects: Jim Kelch (attorney), Greg Belcher, and Michael Griffiths provided details on the water and sewer projects, rates, and process. Councilman Close asked about public notification; direct mail and a legal ad will be sent to customers. Councilman Cutz asked about progress updates; monthly updates will be provided to the council. It was noted that the rate increases are staggered so water and sewer increases do not occur simultaneously. - Third Reading Resolution: Bonding for Water Meter Replacement: An ordinance to authorize financing for water meter replacement was considered. John Stunt clarified that this is not a two-reading ordinance; the motion was to send it to third reading, which will be voted on at the June 1, 2026, meeting. The motion passed unanimously. - Finance Committee Report: Councilman Cutz moved to approve payment of current invoices totaling $55,479.11. He noted the amount was higher than usual because some invoices were not included on the previous agenda. The motion passed unanimously. - Letters and Reports: Councilman Knight reported no updates from the parking committee; no other council members had reports. - Announcements: Upcoming meetings include an MS4 MBC board meeting (May 19), finance committee (May 26), public hearings on MUC ordinances (June 1 at 6 p.m.), public works (June 3), and park committee (June 4). The Memorial Day holiday (May 25) will close city offices. Councilman Catlett is recovering well after a procedure. An ordinance committee meeting will be scheduled soon. Key Outcomes - Minutes of May 4, 2026, approved unanimously. - First readings of sewer and water improvement ordinances passed; public hearings and second readings set for June 1, 2026. - Bonding ordinance for water meter replacement advanced to third reading on June 1, 2026. - Invoices totaling $55,479.11 approved. - No public comments were made. - Meeting adjourned.

Note: The transcript indicates the meeting was called to order on Monday, May 4, 2026, while the provided timestamp is 2026-05-05 01:11:24+00:00. The date used in the title is per the instruction. The meeting opened with a prayer and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by several recognitions, proclamations, and reports. Council approved minutes, adopted two ordinances, approved routine payments and donations, discussed the future use of the former St. Albans Junior High School property, and heard a public comment from a departing police officer warning of a staffing crisis. Praise & Recognition - Mayor James recognized police Chief Philip Beck and the parks department employees who voluntarily helped shut down McCorkle Avenue during a chemical leak the prior week, emphasizing community teamwork. - Monica Mason (Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority) thanked the council for adopting a resolution supporting the public safety levy and noted that a new ambulance station in St. Albans is expected to break ground in the coming months. - Ann Sharnock (Senator, District 17) introduced herself as the appointed replacement for Senator Nelson and offered to assist the city at the state level. - Michael Jerusch (candidate for Senate, District 17), owner of Olive Tree Cafe & Catering in South Charleston, expressed fondness for St. Albans and advocated for job creation and infrastructure improvements to retain young people in West Virginia. - Andy Chamber (Delegate, District 59, running for re-election) spoke about his experience in local government and his philosophy that government closest to the people governs best. - Mayor James read a proclamation declaring May 4, 2026, as Debbie Keener Day in St. Albans, honoring her decades of service to the parks department, including securing a $200,000 grant for the city park nature trail and organizing the Walk on the Wild Side event for 12 years. Council also recognized volunteer Billy for her contributions. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the public hearing (April 20, 2026), City Council meeting (April 20, 2026), and a special meeting regarding the levy (April 21, 2026) were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Former SAJHS Property Usage Study – Mayor James reported that a grant-funded study concluded the highest and best use for the 42,053 sq. ft. property (zoned R-1 single-family residential) is development of five single-family lots. Councilman Page noted that a local developer is interested in building a physical therapy clinic, gym, and high-end luxury apartments, similar to a project in Winfield. Several council members expressed a preference for a revenue-generating use over a park, citing the city’s need for economic growth and the substantial storm drain infrastructure beneath the property, which would require relocation. Councilman Page offered to share the study with the developer to gauge interest. Discussion also touched on the need to form a Land Reuse Agency for future property dispositions; council encouraged broader outreach to find qualified members. - Suggested Ordinance – Senior Fee Reduction – The council referred to the ordinance committee a request to amend Article 954.02 to increase the annual income limit for seniors (65+) seeking reduced city fees, matching the 2026 federal poverty guidelines ($15,960 for individuals, $21,640 for couples). The motion carried. - Ordinance First & Second Reading – The council waived first reading and proceeded to second reading of an ordinance to add Article 1783 (Group Residential Homes), requested by Fowler Marshall. The ordinance was adopted unanimously. - Finance Committee Report – Councilman Rose presented: - Approval of current invoices totaling $22,909.04 (motion carried). - A motion to hire a labor employment attorney (Steph Tony Johnson) to draft a compensatory time policy at a cost not to exceed $15,000. After discussion, Mayor James noted that the city’s existing attorney (Tim LaFon) has already drafted similar policies for other municipalities under the retainer fee, making the $15,000 expense unnecessary. The motion was withdrawn and the item was tabled. Council will review a sample policy from Winfield before proceeding. - A $2,000 donation to DFW for the “Moving Moment” (approved). - A $4,500 donation from opioid settlement funds to Hezekiah House (approved). - Approval of the FY2027 water, sewer, and stormwater budgets (approved). - Campaign Signs on City Property – Councilman Knight clarified that per the Secretary of State’s office, city council cannot enforce removal of campaign signs from state property (e.g., along I-64), but the city can and does remove signs from utility poles or other city-owned property. Signs collected are held at public works for retrieval before disposal. Public Comments & Testimony - Jacob Garrison (2208 Curtis Avenue, departing police officer) expressed gratitude for his time with the St. Albans Police Department but stated he is leaving for the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office due to higher pay. He reported that he is the third officer to depart in three months and that several others are also seeking to leave. He warned that without a pay raise, the city will face severe shortages, increased response times, loss of school resource officers, and diminished drug enforcement capabilities. He urged the council to address the issue urgently. Key Outcomes - Proclamation for Debbie Keener Day issued. - Minutes from three prior meetings approved. - Ordinance regarding group residential homes (Article 1783) adopted. - Ordinance committee directed to draft a senior fee reduction based on 2026 federal poverty guidelines. - Current invoices ($22,909.04) and FY2027 utility budgets approved. - Donations to DFW ($2,000) and Hezekiah House ($4,500) approved. - Motion to hire outside attorney for comp time policy withdrawn; item tabled pending review of existing retainer resources. - Discussion on former SAJHS property continued; councilman Page authorized to share the usage study with a developer. No final decision made. - Citywide cleanup extended through May 8. - Next two council meetings relocated to McKinley due to elevator issues at City Hall.

The meeting opened with a public hearing on the St. Albans Fire Department Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) ordinance, which no public spoke on. The regular council session followed, including praise for a magistrate candidate, approval of minutes, a broadband project change order, adoption of a safety levy resolution and mutual aid agreement, multiple ordinance readings and adoptions, finance committee payments, and announcements about upcoming city events. Public Hearing - A public hearing was held for the ordinance regarding the St. Albans Fire Department Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP). No members of the public spoke for or against, and the hearing was closed. Praise and Recognition - Councilmember recognized Hayes Middle School students for organizing a community cleanup on April 22, 2026. A total of 171 students volunteered to clean up at City Park, Billy Dunn, Kirkfield, Roadside Park, and other locations. Donations were provided by Walt Hall (litter grabbers), 2517, St. Albans Parks and Rec (bags and gloves), Hudson's Pizza (discounted pizza), and St. Albans Fairs and Festivals (pizza purchase). - Delbert Rousse, a magistrate running for re-election, spoke about his background as a Kanawha County deputy sheriff and fire service family, his current role as magistrate, and his efforts to handle a backlog of 500 cases in three months and streamline court proceedings. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve the minutes from the City Council meeting on April 6, 2026. Approved unanimously. Old Business - Broadband Project Change Order No. 1: Roger Kennedy of Chapman Technical Group presented a change order that eliminates a two-mile section of the original alignment near Top Coal Mountain and ends at 817 (Putnam County line). This reduces the contract amount. Funds will be redirected to explore alternative routes, possibly into Lincoln County to pursue BEAD funding or crossing the Kanawha near the future Home Bridge replacement. The trunk line from Spring Hill to 817 is complete with punch list items. Motion to approve carried unanimously. New Business - Resolution in Support of Kanawha County Safety Levy: Moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. - Resolution Adopting Mutual Aid Agreement with City of St. Albans Police Department and City of Nitro Police Department: Chief Bass present. Moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. Ordinances – First Reading - Ordinance to add Article 1783 (Group Residential Homes): Requested by the fire marshal. Moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. Ordinances – Second Reading - Ordinance amending Article 111.16 (Cost assessed for reproduction of records): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 149.04 (City Parks and Recreation Superintendent, other personnel): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 149.05 (Duties and powers of the City Parks and Recreation Superintendent): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 149.07 (Budget and expenses): Adopted unanimously (procedural note: item was skipped but then approved). - Ordinance amending Article 149.06 (Construction and acquisition of recreational property): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 149.09 (Created, members and compensation): Adopted unanimously. - Ordinance regarding St. Albans Fire Department Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP): Adopted on second reading after the public hearing was held. Moved, seconded, and approved unanimously. - Ordinance amending Article 507.18 (Running at large, confinement, leash, impounding, defecation): Adopted unanimously. Finance Committee Report - Councilman Roe presented the following payments, all approved unanimously: - Current invoices: $269,472.00 - Payment to Worldwide Equipment for garbage truck repairs (line item 566-217): amount not specified. - Payment to MH Equipment Company: $713.91 - Payment to All American Fire Equipment, Inc. for service on seven fire trucks (listed VINs): $11,165.23. Discussion included that the service includes full inspections and oil analysis; the department switched to synthetic oil to reduce changes to once a year. Letters and Reports - Parks and Rec report: Still working. - Councilman Roe reminded that citywide cleanup starts next Monday (no hazardous materials or tires), and citywide yard sale is May 2, 2026. - Acknowledgment of donations from Greg Chandler ($2,000 worth of rock) and Sunbelt (free skid steer) for the Walk on the Wild Side trail. Announcements - Lay of the Levy (levy board) meeting: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 5 p.m. in MUC conference room. Quorum needed. - MS4 (MUC) board meeting: Tuesday, April 21, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in MUC conference room. - Finance committee meeting: Monday, April 27, 2026 at 4:30 p.m. (location TBD due to voting machines). - Early voting for Kanawha County: April 29 through May 9, 2026, Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at City Hall MUC conference room. - Next City Council meeting: Monday, May 4, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. - Citywide yard sale: May 2, 2026. Public Form - No residents addressed council. Key Outcomes - All motions, resolutions, and ordinances were passed unanimously. - Broadband project change order approved; contract amount reduced; funds redirected to study alternative routes. - Mutual aid agreement with Nitro Police Department adopted. - Multiple ordinance amendments approved for parks and recreation personnel, duties, budget, and property; group residential homes; records fees; and the fire department DROP program. - Finance payments totaling at least $281,350.94 (sum of known amounts) approved including fire truck maintenance and garbage truck repairs.

The St. Albans City Council met on April 7, 2026, to discuss a range of topics including the MUC capital improvement plan for water and sewer systems, installation of a historic caboose on Fourth Avenue, rental rates for the former McKinley Middle School, zoning clarification for recreational vehicles, and a Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP) for the fire department. The meeting also featured recognition of a youth all‑star team, a proclamation for National Donate Life Month, and public comment. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the March 16, 2026 City Council meeting was moved and passed unanimously. - Several first‑reading ordinances (Articles 149.04 through 149.09, and 507.18) were moved to second reading without dissent; these were described as code cleaning measures. - Finance committee recommendations were approved: payments totaling $4,484.96 and $5,874.19 (to Kanawha County Sheriff's Office for police mobile/record fees), award of $34,780 to All Roofing and Construction for roof replacement at the Hansford Center (funded by grants/donations), permission to seek sealed bids for a backhoe for public works, and purchase of fire gear for $20,137. Public Comments & Testimony - Sean Lake (candidate for State Senate District 7) presented a proposal to replace school resource officers with a civilian‑led canine safety unit. He cited a 40‑year review by the Chicago Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law that found no positive impact on school safety and increased student fear. He described a working model at Oak Hill High School in Cincinnati, Ohio, run by a civilian handler. The proposal includes a civilian handler with a trained protection dog and a secured weapons locker on school property. Council took no immediate action. - Sean (Brown Street address) spoke during public form, suggesting the city could monetize its water system by bottling and selling water and install solar panels at Salmons Mall to generate revenue. The mayor noted the water bottling idea had been discussed before with limited support. Discussion Items - MUC Capital Improvement Plan: Greg Belcher of Chapman Technical presented a 10‑year, $40–50 million plan for water and sewer upgrades in three phases. Phase one focuses on plant improvements; phases two and three address line replacements. MUC has secured low‑interest financing for meter replacement (3% over 20 years) and lead service line work (49% grant/51% at 0.25% interest). A gradual, tiered rate increase is anticipated, with sewer rates unchanged since 2012‑2013. Council discussed prioritization of projects and simultaneous water/sewer work. - Train Depot Caboose: Mark Totten of the CNO Historical Society reported that a historic caboose will be installed on Fourth Avenue. Track panel was donated and installed last year; Donahue Brothers will provide trucking and crane at no cost. Target installation date is May 1, 2026. Council expressed enthusiasm for a public arrival, ribbon‑cutting ceremony, and future tours (including for Train Day on September 19, 2026). - Rental Rates for Former McKinley Middle School: Councilman Cutts moved to adopt a resolution increasing fees and charges starting July 1, 2026, to cover operating costs. Open gym hours remain unchanged. Motion passed unanimously. - Recreational Vehicle Zoning Clarification: A lengthy debate occurred over contradictory language in zoning articles 1333.01, 1333.03, and 1333.08 regarding RV parking. Councilman Knight offered an amendment to retain a prohibition on vehicles towed by another vehicle being parked in front yards. After discussion about grandfathering existing concrete pads and the need for consistency, the amendment was rescinded and the matter was referred to the Ordinance Committee for a full rewrite. - SAFD Comp Time Policy: Referred to the appropriate committee without opposition. - Reduction of City Council Salaries (Article 121.02): Councilmen Page and Cutts proposed referring the matter to the Ordinance Committee to discuss reducing council member pay. Any change would require a charter amendment, with a public vote possible in 2028 and implementation in 2032. Motion carried. - DROP (Deferred Retirement Option Plan) for Fire Department: Fire department representatives presented the DROP ordinance, allowing firefighters to defer pension payments for up to five years while continuing to work. An actuarial study showed the plan would be revenue‑positive by $830,000–$860,000 for the pension fund, which is among the lowest‑funded in the state. Council voted to move the ordinance to second reading. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Resolution for McKinley Middle School rental rates adopted. - RV zoning issue referred to Ordinance Committee. - Comp time policy referred to committee. - Council salary reduction referred to Ordinance Committee. - All first‑reading ordinances moved to second reading; the DROP ordinance (Article 507.18) also moved to second reading. - Finance committee approvals: payments, roof replacement bid, backhoe bid permission, fire gear purchase. - Proclamation for National Donate Life Month presented and accepted. - Upcoming meetings announced: Ordinance committee immediately after adjournment; Finance committee April 13 at 4:30 PM; Public hearing on SAFD DROP April 20 at 6:15 PM; City Council April 20 at 6:30 PM; MS4 MUC board April 21 at 5:30 PM; Finance working session April 9 at 4:30 PM.

The St. Albans City Council met on March 17, 2026, for a regular session. The meeting included recognition of a school board candidate, approval of several consent items, a budget amendment to support part-time staffing at the Alban Arts Center, updates on annexation and a Vietnam Moving Wall event, and a lengthy discussion on police and fire department salary challenges. The council also approved payments, a truck lease, and the fiscal year 2027 budget after amendment. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approved: Minutes from the March 2, 2026 City Council meeting were approved by unanimous vote. - Invoice Payment: A motion to pay current invoices totaling $19,602.51 was approved unanimously. - Truck Lease Purchase: A resolution for the lease purchase of a truck for the Parks Department was approved unanimously. - Fiscal Year 2027 Budget: The council approved the fiscal year 2027 general fund budget after an amendment (see Discussion Items). The final budget passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Mike Arbogast (School Board Candidate): Mr. Arbogast, a current Kanawha County School Board member and retired educator with 40 years in Kanawha County schools, expressed his support for public education and his desire to serve. He highlighted his experience as a principal, athletic director, and SSAC board member. He noted that schools face challenges from school choice legislation and emphasized his ability to navigate those issues. Mayor James spoke in strong support, calling Arbogast a “common sense guy” with vast experience. Council members also expressed support. Discussion Items - Budget Amendment for Arts & Humanities: Councilman Rover proposed an amendment to add $15,000 to the Arts and Humanities salaries and wages line item (page 11, line 1906-1030), offset by subtracting the same amount from the city emergency fund (page 1, line 409-45965). The amendment stated that rental revenues from the Alban Arts Center (approximately $30,000–$40,000 annually) would repay the $15,000, making the amendment budget-neutral. The Finance Committee had been consulted. The amendment was seconded and approved unanimously. The full budget, as amended, was then passed. - Police and Fire Department Salaries: Chief Bass and other council members discussed critical salary disparities. Chief Bass reported that starting police hourly wage is $12.16, 24.5% lower than the Kanawha Valley average, and that four officers had applied to the county and one sergeant to Hurricane PD. He noted that increasing city service fees by 15% had been hoped to fund salary enhancements but did not. He stated that fire department starting wage ($12.16) is far below Putnam County’s ($21.63), and that 25-year captains earn less than a beginning firefighter in Putnam. Several council members acknowledged the need for future rate increases, with Mayor James stating the city service fee ($360/year) is “the greatest deal in the United States” and will likely need to rise. Councilman Knight suggested consolidating the two fire stations as a cost-saving measure, but Chief Bass noted track crossings complicate a central location. Mayor James and others expressed support for annexation and business growth (e.g., Tractor Supply opening mid-summer) as long-term solutions. - Annexation Update: Councilman Knight reported that the Sun Valley annexation list from the county assessor has been reviewed and sent to the attorney. Once approved, the city will begin a door‑knocking canvass to collect signatures. Mayor James added he will approach businesses along Jefferson Road for annexation, similar to Hurricane’s strategy. Some council members noted that annexation is often met with resistance from property owners. - Vietnam Moving Wall Event: Councilman Knight announced that the Moving Wall (half-size replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial) will be in St. Albans June 25–29, 2026, at the former Kmart property (Essential Grove Properties). It will be set up by motorcycle escort from Princeton, and will remain 24/7. Opening ceremony is June 27 (Saturday), closing June 29. Community donations are sought through the VFW. Tickets or donations can be made to the VFW. - Spring Cleanup & Recycling: Public works announced spring cleanup dates (April 27 or May) and that P‑request forms must be submitted by April 1. The city is seeking ideas to promote recycling. A council member noted the Heads Up app no longer alerts users of updates; Mayor James will contact Butch (the app manager) to resolve this. - Take-Home Police Cars: Chief Bass distributed a memo recommending retention of take-home cars, citing benefits for rapid emergency response, court appearances, and vehicle care. Council members voiced support, noting that officers cannot use cars for personal errands and that take-home cars increase visible police presence. Key Outcomes - Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Approved: The budget, as amended to add $15,000 to Arts and Humanities salaries (offset from the emergency fund), passed unanimously. - Lease Purchase of Parks Truck Approved: Unanimous. - Invoice Payment Approved: $19,602.51, unanimous. - Minutes Approved: Unanimous. - Sun Valley Annexation Process Ongoing: Attorney review awaited; door‑knocking will follow approval. - Moving Wall Event Scheduled: June 25–29, 2026 at Kmart property; opening ceremony June 27. - Dog Bowl Fundraiser: Sunday, March 22 (this Sunday) from 1–7 p.m. at Town & Country; slots still available. - Pub Crawl: March 28, 2026. - Upcoming Meetings: MS4/MUC Board (March 17), Finance Committee (March 23), Public Works Committee (April 1), Parks Committee (April 2), City Council (April 6). - No further public comment or old/new business: Meeting adjourned.

The St. Albans City Council met on Monday, March 2, 2026. The meeting began with a proclamation recognizing a local swim champion, followed by a presentation from a state senate candidate. The council unanimously approved routine financial items and referred a new ordinance regulating group residential homes to committee. No public comments were made at the end of the meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: Minutes from the February 17, 2026, City Council meeting were approved unanimously. - Payment of Current Invoices: A motion to pay invoices totaling $31,221.66 was approved. - Salt Purchase: A payment of $9,934.43 to Compass Minerals for salt used by the Public Works Department was approved. Councilman John Boyd praised the department for their work during a busy winter. Public Comments & Testimony - Candidate for State Senate: Todd Bettner, candidate for the 17th District State Senate (unexpired term), addressed the council. He introduced himself as a lifelong resident of the Kanawha Valley, emphasized the need for partnership over partisanship, and shared his background in public policy. When asked about the Hope Scholarship, he stated he would consider scaling it back to avoid harming public schools, noting recent layoffs in Kanawha County. He also expressed support for investing in schools and communities. Discussion Items - Group Residential Home Ordinance: Mayor Scott James introduced a proposed ordinance regarding group residential homes, particularly sober living homes. He explained that the city had been working with the Attorney General's office to create regulations, as these homes previously did not need to register. The ordinance would require registration, a $15 business license, and adherence to fire and building codes (including sprinkler systems for homes with six or more occupants). Council members discussed certification requirements, exemptions for ministries, and potential impacts. The ordinance was referred to the ordinance committee for further review. Key Outcomes - Proclamation: Mayor James proclaimed March 2, 2026, as "John David Humphreys Day" in honor of the St. Albans High School senior who won the WVSSAC state championship in the 100-yard breaststroke and holds six school swimming records. - Ordinance Referral: The proposed group residential home ordinance was referred to the ordinance committee by a unanimous vote. - Upcoming Events: Council members announced several community events, including the St. Albans Dog Bowl on March 22 (benefiting the K9 unit and youth programs), a St. Patrick's Day pub crawl on March 7, and continued use of the McKinley Community Center for sports and activities. - Committee Meetings: Public Works Committee (March 4), Parks Committee (March 5), Finance Committee (March 9), and next City Council meeting (March 16) were scheduled.

The St. Albans City Council met on February 18, 2026, to discuss and approve resolutions for the rental of the former McKinley Middle School gymnasium, pass an ordinance regarding fire marshal authority, and recognize city employees and police officers for their service. Praise & Recognition - The Mayor praised city street crews and MUC workers for fixing leaks in subzero weather without complaint. - A Kanawha County paramedic commended Officers Beckner and Sanders for assisting in transporting a stroke patient, leading to a full recovery. Both officers were recognized for their quick action. Discussion Items Resolution on Parks and Recreation Fees for McKinley Middle School - Councilman Ruther proposed an amendment to the rate structure, introducing per-hour, 4-hour, 8-hour, and 12-hour rates with discounted rates for St. Albans nonprofits. Monthly rates for 32 hours over 28 days were also included. - The rates were developed with Parks Director Kevin Pennington. The Mayor expressed support, noting prior communication with local schools and leagues who expected $25/hour but now receive $20/hour. - Discussion included staffing: the Superintendent will determine if additional employees are needed for events, charged at $25/hour. Concerns were raised about eventually needing a full-time employee due to increasing usage. - The resolution as amended passed unanimously. Ordinance Amending Fire Marshal Enforcement Authority - Second reading of an ordinance adding municipal fire marshal authority to Article 953.22. A council member clarified social media misconceptions, stating it does not grant unlimited authority but clarifies language requested by the fire department. Passed unanimously. Finance Committee Report - Approval of payment of current invoices totaling $10,198.03 passed unanimously. Appointments - Aaron McNeil of 829 Shrewsbury Drive was appointed to the Parks Committee for a term expiring June 30, 2029. Announcements and Reports - Recreation events: St. Patrick's Day Party on March 13, Glow Dance Party on March 27, both at McKinley (7-8:30 PM). The Valentine Party had 67 kids. - Dementia Friendly St. Albans events: Dementia Friendly Day weekend, and a "No Hush" movie screening of "Viva Las Vegas" at the Alban Theater on February 22 at 2 PM. - Upcoming committee meetings scheduled. Key Outcomes - Resolution on rates for McKinley gymnasium adopted with amended fee structure. - Ordinance on fire marshal authority passed on second reading. - Invoices approved. - Appointment confirmed. - Meeting adjourned.

The St. Albans City Council met on February 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the council chambers. The meeting opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation led by council members. The council discussed praise for city employees and first responders, approved routine items, and passed an ordinance on first reading to add a municipal fire marshal. No public comments were made. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The council unanimously approved the minutes from the January 20, 2026, city council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - No residents addressed the council during public forum. Discussion Items - Praise and Recognition: The mayor praised the Public Works Department for exceptional snow and ice response despite equipment wear and refreezing issues. He noted that St. Albans roads were reported to be better than in other communities. He also thanked KRT for providing a warming bus from Monday through Saturday the previous week, which saw moderate use. Councilman Clusk thanked the police department for a rapid response to a report of a firearm at a school. Additional thanks were given to John Boy and Alex for helping clear salt at the county board offices, and to MUC crews for battling multiple water leaks daily in cold weather. A long-term 8–10 year, $73–75 million plan to replace aging water infrastructure was mentioned. - Annexation Report: The mayor reported receiving an email from the County Assessor’s Office containing a list of properties needed for the Sun Valley annexation. He will forward the list to the annexation committee to begin working on a petition. - Upcoming Meetings and Events: The council announced committee meeting dates (Public Works Feb 4, Parks Feb 5, Finance Feb 9, ZBA Feb 10), the President’s Day holiday (Feb 16) with trash pickup delayed by one day, the next city council meeting on Feb 17, and the Dog Bowl event scheduled for March 22. Key Outcomes - Ordinance First Reading: The council unanimously passed (all aye) an ordinance amending Article 953.22 of the city codified ordinances to add enforcement authority for a municipal fire marshal. - Finance Committee Report: The council unanimously approved payment of current invoices totaling $14,431.95. - Annexation Next Steps: The mayor will send the Sun Valley property list to the annexation committee to facilitate petition preparation.