Public Meetings - Wheeling, West Virginia

The Wheeling City Council met on October 20, 2026, to address a full agenda including a $20 million bond issuance for Oglebay Park improvements, numerous infrastructure and service contracts, and updates on city projects. The council also recognized the successful Washington Avenue Bridge celebration and made appointments to city commissions. Public Hearing on Oglebay Park Bonds - James Cardell and Bob Peckinpaw, representing the Wheeling Park Commission, presented a proposal for a $20 million bond issuance (Series A: $9.8 million tax-exempt; Series B: $10.2 million) to fund renovations at Oglebay Park. The bonds are revenue bonds secured solely by park revenue and do not obligate the city or its taxpayers. Projects include: room renovations in the Bird Wing Lodge (with platform beds, expanded bathrooms, and outdoor living rooms), an indoor/outdoor pool addition, an adult-only outdoor lounge area, an arcade refresh, and life safety upgrades (sprinklers, makeup air). No questions from the public were recorded. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the October 6, 2026 meeting were approved as received. - Seven ordinances (items 2-8) were approved en masse to enter into agreements and expend funds from CPPG fiscal year 2627 public services: - $80,000 to Russell Nesbitt Services Inc. for a new roof. - $42,500 to Youth Services Systems for exterior upgrades at March Recovery Home. - $10,000 to Catholic Charities for food delivery products. - $20,000 to Family Service for food, gasoline, and paper products. - $4,000 to House of the Carpenter for programming with Madison School. - $5,000 to Seeing Hand Association for workshop supplies. - $25,000 to Wheeling Health Right for pharmaceutical, dental, and diabetic supplies. Discussion Items - Mayor's Report: Mayor noted the opening of Vigilant Bookstore in the former North Wheeling Firehouse. He thanked the city solicitor and planning director for their work on proposed data center regulations over the past three months. Council approved the appointment of Aaron George to the Human Rights Commission and Ricky Moore to the Recreation Commission. The mayor also thanked Councilor Thorngate and Vice Mayor Squab and Awkis for organizing a successful Washington Avenue Bridge party. - City Manager's Report (presented by Assistant City Manager Bill Land): Provided updates on paving (areas including Indian Point, North 16th, Hildreth, etc., expected completion by Friday). Electrical upgrades for Market Plaza light up night will begin October 26 and finish by October 30. FEMA pre-bid meetings for Evelyn Avenue slip (10 a.m.) and Glenwood Road (11 a.m.) will occur on October 21; bid openings October 30. Due to addenda, Greggsville Ballfield and I-470 bid openings moved to October 28. Water project bids (sluice gate, sludge dewatering) due November 12. Hemphill Tunnel engineering firm interviews set for October 28. Land reported break-ins and property damage at Vertical Lake Field and I-470 field; cameras, motion detectors, and cashless systems are being implemented. - Council Remarks: Councilor Palmer thanked all involved in the bridge celebration. Councilor Kane noted the dedication of the Sober Living Recovery Home on 23rd Street. Vice Mayor and Councilor Thorngate praised the Washington Avenue Bridge celebration, which drew hundreds of attendees, and urged continued support for businesses along the corridor. Thorngate expressed hope for an annual event. Key Outcomes - Oglebay Park Bonds: Ordinance authorizing $20 million in Series 2026A and Series 2026B revenue bonds for Oglebay Park improvements was approved unanimously. - Nuttle Avenue Storm Sewer: Expenditure of $327,561.99 with Alex E. Paris Contracting approved. - West Benco Arena Club Lighting: $22,660 transfer from arena RCIP approved. - Police Headquarters Architect: $198,000 with MG Architects approved. - Water Meter Programming: $146,800 with Metron Farnier approved. - Fire Station Exhaust System: $350,428 with Magna Crib (reimbursed by AFG grant) approved. - Alley Vacation: Abandonment of a 12-foot alley in South Wheeling approved. - Intermodal Parking Garage System: $148,031.76 with Flash Parking approved. - Event Software for Parks: $34,706.52 with SHI International approved. - New Ordinances (approved) : - $19,250 for police department communications maintenance with end-to-end public safety. - Conveyance of 146 and 148 16th Street to Ohio Valley ADC. - $75,936.48 for lead service line database renewal with 120 Water. - Resolution to change the November 4, 2026 city council meeting location to Wheeling University campus (approved). Appointments - Aaron George appointed to the Human Rights Commission. - Ricky Moore appointed to the Recreation Commission. Public Comments - Carly Gidmar was called to speak, but no remarks were transcribed in the record.

The Wheeling City Council met on October 6, 2026, to approve minutes and committee reports, receive the mayor's report, adopt unfinished-business ordinances, hear council and city manager reports, introduce new ordinances, and take one public comment. Consent Calendar - Previous meeting minutes were accepted as received by voice vote. - Development Committee minutes from September 15, 2026, and Finance Committee minutes from September 15, 2026, were accepted as received. Mayor's Report - With council approval, the mayor appointed Reverend Timothy Crummit to the Hall of Fame Commission. Crummit introduced himself as a pastor. - Council adopted a proclamation congratulating 29 Wheeling Park High School AP Scholars and five Wheeling Park High School senior semifinalists in the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program. The proclamation noted the semifinalists were among 16,000 students nationwide competing for approximately 6,700 National Merit Scholarships. Unfinished Business - Authorized $19,000 with Mary Canine Services LLC of Norwich, Ohio, for a police narcotics canine and training, charged to West Virginia asset forfeiture funds. - Established a no-parking zone on the west side of Highland Avenue. - Established a no-parking zone at the corner of South Broadway Street and Delaware Street. - Authorized crosswalks and appropriate signage at the intersections of Linwood, Cybert, and Carmel Road. - Authorized a traffic signal near the intersection of Louisa Avenue and McLean Avenue. - Authorized traffic signage for the truck route. - Authorized $767,290 for wastewater treatment plant sludge dewatering improvements, described as the final part of the digester project. Council Member Remarks - A councilor raised e-bike safety concerns, saying e-bikes are being ridden at excessive speed and that somebody is going to get hurt. The councilor provided surveillance videos and suggested asking state delegates about a statewide e-bike rule to avoid different local rules. Another councilor agreed. The councilor said the goal is public safety, not banning e-bikes or over-regulating them. City Manager Report - The city manager requested two readings for the wastewater treatment plant lab air conditioning ordinance and the fire department aerial ladder truck repair ordinance. For the air conditioning unit, lower bids were not recommended because they did not meet specifications requiring corrosion-resistant piping due to hydrogen sulfide. - Upcoming bid openings: the FEMA-funded I-470 ballfield and Grek'sville playground on October 23, and the Glenwood Road FEMA slip project on October 30. Work on the third Glenwood Road slip was nearing completion, with the road expected to open to full traffic by Friday. - In response to a councilor's question, the city manager said the wastewater treatment plant's microorganisms had been lost several weeks ago but were re-established and fully operational; the city was working with the DEP to trace the discharge that caused the loss and was close to identifying it. Petitions - A petition regarding property maintenance status for 114th Street was received and referred to the office of the city manager. Original Propositions - An ordinance authorizing up to $20 million in aggregate principal amount of improvement revenue bonds, Series 2026A and 2026B, for facility improvements and related costs, was introduced. - A motion was made to consolidate original propositions 2 through 8, covering CDBG-funded agreements with Russell Nesbitt Services ($80,000), Youth Services Systems ($42,500), Catholic Charities ($10,000), Family Service ($20,000), House of the Carpenter ($4,000), Seeing Hand Association ($5,000), YMCA ($5,000), and Wheeling Health Right ($25,000); $16,275 to Robinson Pipe Cleaning for sewer cleaning and televising; $327,561.99 to Alex D. Paris Contracting for the Brunettle Avenue Storm Sewer Project Phase One; a $22,660 transfer for arena club lighting improvements; and $198,000 to MG Architects and Engineers for police headquarters Sallyport and site development design services. - The $27,372 lab air conditioning ordinance with E.G. Newman Company and the $81,576.25 aerial ladder fire truck repair ordinance with Sutton Corporation, among the consolidated items, received second readings and were adopted. - Additional ordinances were introduced for $146,800 in water meter programming with Metron Burringer LLC, $350,428 in fire station exhaust system upgrades with the Agnet Group (reimbursed by an AFG grant), vacation of a 0.0287-acre unopened 12-foot alley, and $34,706.52 for software from SHI International. Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Seuler, a resident of 42 High School Avenue, asked the council to review and revise the vacant structure code and grant more authority to the Wheeling Historic Landmarks Commission. He emphasized the value of preserving and rehabilitating existing properties, citing the rehabilitation of 1069 Main Street, first listed in an 1874 city directory, acquired by the city in 2005 and sold to current owners in 2016. He also noted the Friends of Wheeling loan guarantee program used by that project and 30 others since 2015. Key Outcomes - Appointed Reverend Timothy Crummit to the Hall of Fame Commission. - Recognized Wheeling Park High School AP Scholars and National Merit semifinalists by proclamation. - Adopted seven unfinished-business ordinances, including the sludge dewatering contract and multiple traffic and parking measures. - Accepted development and finance committee minutes from September 15, 2026. - Referred the 114th Street property maintenance petition to the city manager. - Gave second readings and adopted the lab air conditioning and fire truck repair ordinances. - Introduced the $20 million bond ordinance and other new ordinances; the transcript does not record final votes on the remaining consolidated items.

The Wheeling City Council met on September 15, 2026, with all members present except Mr. Sklavanakis (present). The meeting covered routine approvals, the mayor’s report, multiple ordinances, a city manager update, and a contentious public hearing and vote on a memorandum of understanding with Silicon Foundry Energy LLC regarding a proposed data center. Consent Calendar - Minutes of the September 1, 2026 council meeting were approved as received. - Minutes from the GWSEA (June 30, 2026), Arts and Cultural Commission (July 14, 2026), and Hall of Fame Board (July 14, 2026) were accepted as received. - Finance committee meeting minutes from September 1, 2026 were accepted. Public Comments & Testimony - Polly Barks (2007 Forwood Ave) argued the MOU with Silicon Foundry Energy is insufficient, opposes a data center under 90 megawatts, and called for a moratorium. She highlighted a legal battle in Michigan over noise from a 28-megawatt data center and flagged sections 2.5 and 4.2 of the MOU as problematic. - Heather Bailey (2201 Pest Ave) urged council not to vote for the MOU, stating residents do not want a data center and that council should at least try to enact a moratorium. - Amy Coastal requested a no vote, citing lack of community input, the absence of a data center task force, and noting that OpenAI recently canceled its own AI project, signaling market volatility. - Andrew Mall rejected the MOU due to insufficient time for review and lack of protections for property values, water usage, and noise. He noted Silicon Foundation’s verbal promises were not in writing. - Mark Hanna (125 N 21st St) metaphorically described the data center as a “hotspot” causing pain, urged slowing the process, and asked council to fully understand the implications before acting. - Anthony Edmund cited the city charter to argue the MOU requires an ordinance, not just a resolution, and referenced Loudoun County, Virginia’s regret over data center development. - Amanda McCorder (440 W Spring Woods) emphasized the 40-year term is a generational decision that could affect children and grandchildren, and pointed to Wheeling’s population decline. - Melinda Schmidt (431 Hazel Ave, Warwood) outlined blind spots: the city will have little enforcement leverage; water infrastructure is poor; data centers employ few permanent staff; ratepayers subsidize grid upgrades; and noise pollution degrades quality of life and property values. - Megan Ozack (121 Center Ave) said the MOU only limits capacity to 90 megawatts, which is still massive, and that even a 20–30 megawatt facility disrupts the community. - Katie Schwartzbaker (651 Main Street) raised concerns about Silicon Foundation dissolving and the MOU not binding future property owners, and criticized ignored FOIA requests. - Liz Stevens (two blocks from proposed site) called for a moratorium and a data center task force, noting the mayor’s own statement about wanting to make the right decision. - Joshua DeShaw (2715 O St) urged a no vote, saying the MOU was released only two days prior and that council should consult experts from communities that successfully blocked data centers. Discussion Items - Mayor’s Report: Mayor McGruder thanked Rabbi Joshua Leaf and Lou Vargo for the 9/11 ceremony. He noted the military banner program now has 438 banners flying across the city, with ceremonies for 20 killed-in-action veterans. - City Manager Report: Robert Heron announced the appointment of Elliott Albert to the Planning Commission (confirmed). The Washington Avenue Bridge is on schedule to open mid-October (week of Oct 19). Four ordinances were requested for two readings to expedite: Oak Street sidewalk replacement ($55,000), center market lights ($22,876.75), waterline repairs ($48,800), and Glenwood Road slip repair (revised to $346,606 for a piling wall). FEMA funds are being released for I-470 baseball field and Craig’sville playground renovations, out for bid with completion by Dec 31, 2026. Demolition of the TCI building is ahead of schedule; nine residential demolitions under DLAP are half done. - Council Member Reports: Councilman Palmer announced a crime watch meeting and that bars from the TCI building have been removed and signed over to the Elm Grove Business Association for potential refurbishment. - Silicon Foundry MOU Debate: The resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into a binding 40-year MOU with Silicon Foundry Energy LLC was the main focus. City Manager Heron and council members (Vice Mayor Sklavanakis, Councilman Seiler) explained the MOU is a step to keep local control by preventing the developer from seeking certification as a high-impact data center under state law (House Bill 2014), and to enable a TIF district. They reiterated that a separate data-center-specific ordinance addressing noise, water, light pollution, and other concerns is being developed and will incorporate best practices from Loudoun County. Councilman Palmer noted the MOU binds successors if the company is sold. Despite public opposition, the council moved to adopt the resolution. - Other Original Propositions: Several ordinances were passed on second reading or as noted: Oak Street sidewalk replacement, center market lighting, police narcotics canine, parking zones, crosswalks, traffic mirror, truck route signage, bonds for Oglebay Park and Wheeling Park improvements (up to $20 million each), and street paving for waterline repairs. Key Outcomes - Ordinances Approved (Unfinished Business): - Well pump 3 rehab: $19,018 to GM Aker & Son (approved). - New Development and Business Expansion Tax Credit amendment (approved). - Police vehicle equipment: $74,618.04 to Bearcom (approved). - Four 2027 Dodge Durango pursuits: $167,732 to Jim Shorty Ford (approved). - Fire Department video system: $116,454 to Yon Electric (approved). - Elm Terrace and Gaywood Stormwater engineering: $95,500 to For Dantis (approved). - Network segmentation: $29,950 to Yon Electric (approved). - Transfer of $575,000 from TIF project fund to Ohio Valley Area Development Corporation (approved). - Ordinances Approved (Second Reading/Original Propositions): - Oak Street sidewalk replacement: $55,000 to Savage Construction (approved). - Center market lights: $22,876.75 to Riley Exterior Solutions (approved). - Police narcotics canine and training: $19,000 to Mary Canine Services (approved). - Street paving due to waterline repairs: $48,800 to Castle Baker Corporation (approved). - Glenwood Road emergency slip repair (piling wall): $346,606 to Ohio West Virginia Excavating (approved). - Wastewater treatment plant sludge improvements: $767,290 to Raycon Construction (approved). - Resolution Approved: The council voted to adopt the resolution authorizing the city manager to enter into a binding memorandum of understanding with Silicon Foundry Energy LLC regarding non-certification as a high-impact data center (vote tally not specified; motion approved). The MOU has a 40-year term and includes provisions that bind successors. - Resolution Approved: Reimbursement of certain preliminary expenditures from bond proceeds (approved). - Appointment: Elliott Albert confirmed to the Planning Commission.

The Wheeling City Council met on September 1, 2026, at 21:29 UTC to consider a range of ordinances and resolutions. The meeting covered approvals of routine minutes, several traffic and infrastructure ordinances, a city manager report on pension legislation, Glenwood Road slips, and potential financing for Ogilby Park improvements. Multiple expenditure ordinances and resolutions were approved, while one ordinance related to traffic flow on Lane 15 died for lack of a motion. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from the August 18, 2026 city council meeting. - Accepted finance committee and development committee minutes from August 18, 2026. - Held over minutes from the Planning Commission (June 8, 2026), Board of Zoning Appeals (July 16, 2026), GWSEA (June 30, 2026), Arts and Cultural Commission (July 14, 2026), and Hall of Fame Board (July 14, 2026). - Approved ordinances from unfinished business: - Creating crosswalks at 15th and O streets (approved by roll call vote). - Reducing speed limit on Economy Street to 15 mph (approved). - Creating a three-way stop intersection at 12th and Water streets (approved; discussion clarified it adds a stop sign). - Authorizing $20,500 to Top Notch Landscaping and Supply LLC for hydroseeding at Gateway Park (approved). - Authorizing $159,190 to JD&E Construction Services for fire station renovations (approved). - Approved resolutions: - Identifying 1101 Warwood Avenue as a development/redevelopment site (approved). - Declaring 11 Florida Street a public nuisance after noting some improvement (approved). - Approving budget revision number two to the FY 2026-2027 general fund (approved). Public Comments & Testimony No public comments or testimony were presented during the recorded portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - City Manager's Report – Pension Legislation: City Manager Heron reported on House Bill 4756, which authorized pension obligation bonds. The bill passed the House 98-2 or 98-3 and unanimously in the Senate. He thanked local delegates and senators for their efforts. He also noted the municipal employees' pension fund holds over $57 million. - Bank Qualified Allocation for Ogilby Park: Mr. Heron explained that the Wheeling Park Commission has requested to use a portion of the city's $10 million bank qualified allocation for improvements at Ogilby Park, including Wilson Lodge renovations. He stated he does not anticipate the city issuing additional debt this year and recommended making the allocation available. Ordinances are expected at the next meeting. - Glenwood Road Slips Update: - A large slip (estimated $4 million) on lower Glenwood Road: the city submitted a congressionally directed spending request for $3.2 million, with an $800,000 local match available. The request was recommended by Senators Justice and Capito. - A second slip: a temporary fix began to erode; a company is reviewing geotechnical work for a retaining wall; cost expected next week. - A third slip near Fourney Road (from April 2024 flood): funded by FEMA; engineering nearly complete; bid opening scheduled for October 30, 2026, for approximately $600,000. - Park View Avenue: Mr. Heron stated an announcement on FEMA funding is expected within 30–60 days. - Northern Parkway: In response to a councilor's question, Mr. Heron said the city is waiting for the federal application process; construction is anticipated for spring 2027. - Other FEMA Updates: Greg's bill and Cadillac Avenue houses are progressing through state processes. Key Outcomes - Ordinance to create one-way traffic from east to west on Lane 15 died for lack of a motion. - All other ordinances and resolutions presented were approved by voice or roll call votes as noted. - Council will consider ordinances at the next meeting to authorize the bank qualified allocation for the Wheeling Park Commission's Ogilby Park improvements. - The city continues to pursue congressional directed spending for the large Glenwood Road slip and awaits FEMA determinations on various projects. - The next meeting will include further reports and potential action on these items. Note: The transcript ended before any additional public participation or closing remarks. The date is confirmed as September 1, 2026.

On August 18, 2026, the Wheeling City Council convened to approve several ordinances, receive a presentation on flooding in Elm Grove, and hear a detailed update on the city's police and fire pension funds, which are now fully overfunded. The meeting also included appointments, recognition of community events, and warnings about decorum. Consent Calendar - Minutes of August 11, 2026: Approved unanimously. - Development Committee Minutes of August 11, 2026: Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the "those wishing to be heard" portion of the meeting. Discussion Items - Elm Terrace Plaza Flooding Presentation: City Manager Mr. Heron introduced AJ Smith of Verdantis to present preliminary findings on the flooding at Elm Terrace Plaza. Smith described a nearly 100-acre watershed draining to a single catch basin in the parking lot, with the parking lot situated in a natural bowl. The June 2026 storm event, similar to one in June 2025, overwhelmed the inlet. Short-term solutions include: installing a larger inlet at the parking lot (requiring removal of two parking spaces, agreeable to property owners), diverting runoff from the Sled parking lot north of the plaza, modifying the Gaywood Avenue inlet structure to handle debris from steep wooded slopes outside city limits, and installing temporary check dams uphill to catch debris. Longer-term options include underground retention, a pump station, and diverting storm flow to the south. Smith noted that recent storms are exceeding 100-year event frequencies. The city manager indicated engineering authorization would be sought within two weeks. - TCI Building Demolition: The city manager reported that environmental remediation began that day. The demolition, requiring a crane and track hoes, will necessitate closure of the Junior Avenue bridge from September 8 to September 25, 2026. The fire department and school district have been notified. - Fire Station Renovation Project: Bids came in slightly below the congressionally directed spending allocation. The city manager thanked Senator Capito for securing the funds. - Police and Fire Pension Fund Update: City Manager Mr. Heron provided a historic review, noting that in 2002 the fire pension fund had $3.911 million and the police fund $2.929 million, both 5% funded, with an unfunded liability over $61 million. Through a 2020 sale of pension obligation bonds ($42.192 million) and the city's 2012 closure of the alternative method (replaced by a half-percent sales tax), the funds are now overfunded. Current assets: fire $83.043 million, police $57.807 million, plus a $5.741 million bond contingency reserve. The city's annual contribution fell from $4.959 million (pre-bond) to $2.19 million (post-bond) for debt service, a swing of nearly $6 million compared to staying on the alternative method. Councilor thanked Mr. Heron for his leadership, noting that Wheeling is the only community to have executed such a bond sale before interest rates rose. - Councilor Remarks: Councilor Seidler thanked the governor for additional grant funds for the Gateway Project and thanked the community for supporting the Greek, Italian, and Lebanese festivals. Councilor Hall announced the Ward Six Crime Watch meeting on August 19 at 5:30 PM at the Elm Grove Civic Building. Key Outcomes - Appointment: Tabitha Hawthorne appointed to the Recreation Commission for a three-year term ending June 30, 2029 (approved by voice vote). - Unfinished Business (Ordinances): All three ordinances were approved by roll call vote: - Ordinance authorizing expenditure of $628,290 with Reclaim Company LLC for abatement and demolition of the 14th Street Development Project, funded by a West Virginia Economic Enhancement Grant. - Ordinance fixing assessments for demolishing dilapidated structures per West Virginia Code. - Ordinance authorizing conveyance of real property at 314 South York Street to the Ohio Valley ABC. - Original Propositions (Ordinances and Resolutions): All items were adopted by roll call vote: - Ordinance creating one-way traffic flow east to west on Lane 15. - Ordinance creating crosswalks at the intersection of 15th and Of Street. - Ordinance reducing speed limit on Economy Street to 15 mph. - Ordinance creating a three-way stop intersection at 12th Street and Water Street. - Ordinance authorizing an agreement with Top Notch Landscaping and Supply LLC for $20,500 for hydro seeding at Gateway Park (project fund). - Ordinance authorizing expenditure of $1,509,190 with JDNE Construction Services for fire station renovations (congressionally directed spending). - Resolution accepting terms and conditions for the Region 4 Highway Safety Program grant (Northern Panhandle of West Virginia) up to $473,400. - Warning on Decorum: The mayor reiterated that outbursts or violations of decorum will result in removal from chambers, referencing a prior meeting.

The Wheeling City Council met on July 21, 2026, with Vice Mayor Slavonakus presiding in the absence of Mayor McGreter. The meeting covered routine approvals, public works contracts, demolition projects, and a public nuisance declaration. Key actions included approval of a $791,761.10 street resurfacing contract, a $147,659.20 water service contract, and a resolution to begin abatement of a nuisance property with animal welfare concerns. Council members also addressed public concerns about data center noise and received updates on festival events and transit celebrations. Consent Calendar - Minutes from the July 7, 2026 city council meeting were approved unanimously. - Minutes from the May 26, 2026 Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority meeting were accepted. - Unfinished business ordinances passed without discussion: adoption of 2025 replacement pages to codified ordinances; authorization of $147,659.20 with Miller Pipeline for water service retirements; authorization of $139,234 with USI Insurance for workers’ compensation excess liability; zoning change of a 6.962-acre North Park parcel from R2 to R4; authorization of $15,499.54 for cybersecurity insurance (split across funds). Discussion Items - Public Works Contracts: Council discussed a $28,000 one-year contract with Top Notch Landscaping for streetscape maintenance on Main and Market streets and cross streets. City staff clarified that bioswales outside city hall are under state responsibility and not part of this contract. The contract was approved. - Paving Contract: The city manager requested two readings on the $791,761.10 street resurfacing ordinance to allow the contractor to proceed quickly. Council approved the ordinance after a brief comment urging support. - Public Nuisance Declaration: A resolution was introduced for property at 11 Florida Street due to numerous code violations, including improper care of a large number of dogs. The city manager explained the focus is on animal welfare, not the house, and a hearing will be held. Council passed the resolution to initiate the process. - City Manager’s Report: - Clay School demolition is 90% complete; staff commended M&G Architects and Ray’s demolition for excellent work. - DLAP funding received for demolition of eight to nine residential structures, confirming council’s early action was beneficial. - A $150,000 TAP grant (with $30,000 city match) was awarded for engineering design of the Hemphunnel trail tunnel restoration; a future construction grant is anticipated. - Wastewater treatment plant odor issues have been mostly resolved, though occasional odor may occur due to weather or discharges. - Council Remarks: - Councilman Asaro requested baseline sound and infra-sound readings in Warwood (Third Street, Warwood School, Clifton Avenue) day and night to address data center concerns, stating “you are being heard.” - Councilman Palmer noted a rescheduled Ward 6 Crime Watch meeting and affirmed that council is listening but must follow laws and ordinances. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were presented during the meeting; the session adjourned as individuals were signed up but no testimony appears in the transcript. Key Outcomes - Approval of $791,761.10 street resurfacing contract with Caston Baker (split between RCIP and city service fee). - Approval of $147,659.20 contract with Miller Pipeline for water service retirements. - Approval of $28,000 streetscape maintenance contract with Top Notch Landscaping. - Approval of $139,234 workers’ compensation excess liability policy with USI Insurance. - Approval of $130,000 abatement and demolition contract for the TCI building (2184 National Road) using DLAP funding. - Approval of $15,499.54 cybersecurity insurance policy. - Approval of $32,551.22 for fire department turnout gear with Arnold Fire Equipment. - Approval of $21,216 for vehicle alerts and monitoring with Samsara. - Approval of no-parking zone extensions (Woodlawn Lane, Valley View/ABC streets). - Adoption of resolutions approving budget revision for the general fund and coal severance fund. - Adoption of a resolution changing the August 4, 2026 council meeting to August 11, 2026. - Initiation of public nuisance proceedings for 11 Florida Street, with a future hearing scheduled. - A request for sound readings in Warwood will be considered; no formal vote was taken. - The city manager will issue a notice to proceed for the paving contract.

The Wheeling City Council met on July 10, 2026, to approve routine items, receive reports from the Mayor and City Manager, and hear remarks from council members on flooding, the silicone foundry project, and e-bike concerns. Several ordinances were passed, and appointments to city boards were ratified. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The minutes from the June 15, 2026 meeting were approved as received with a unanimous voice vote. The minutes from the Finance Committee meeting of June 15, 2026 were also approved. The minutes from the GWSC meeting of May 26, 2026 were held over to the next meeting. - Appointments: Reappointments to the HOME and West Virginia Northern Home Consortium (Joyce Lowland and Stewart Levy) and the Human Rights Commission (Unique Murphy and Reverend Ralph Duncan) were ratified. New appointments to the Wheeling Tree Board (Daniel Hughes and Dave Thompson) were also approved. All appointments were passed by unanimous voice vote. - Ordinances Authorizing City Manager Expenditures: Three ordinances were adopted unanimously (voice votes recorded): - Authorization to spend up to $170,564 from the Water Fund for the purchase of a backhoe (to be charged to the Water Fund). - Authorization to spend $9,929 from the General Fund for a salary increase for the city manager (to be charged to the General Fund). - Authorization to transfer $505,000 from the General Fund to the Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority for tax-related facilities projects within the city. Mayor's Report - Mayor welcomed the new Bishop of the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese, Bishop Power Kayala, and invited residents to downtown events on Saturday, including the AAL championship game at West Virginia University (?) and a party on the plaza. - Announced that Rabbi Joshua Lee has accepted the position of chair of the Homeless Task Force. - Presented appointments to boards and committees. City Manager's Report - Opportunity Zones: Approximately ten years ago, the federal government created opportunity zones providing tax credits for economic development. These zones were set to expire. The city submitted two census tracts (26 and 27) covering downtown, East Wheeling, Center Wheeling, and parts of South Wheeling for renewal to the Governor's office on July 1, 2026, in cooperation with the Belmont County Council. - Fiscal Year Budget: The city's fiscal year concluded with overall budget under the appropriated amount. The cash carryover was $597,000, and no contribution was needed from the budget stabilization fund for the prior year's operating budget. - TCI Building Demolition: The West Virginia D-Lab program approved demolition of the TCI building in Elm Grove. The building was acquired by the OEDC about six years ago. Bids came in at about $130,000, and D-Lab is interested in funding the entire demolition and environmental remediation. The item will come before city council in the next couple weeks. - Digester Project: A screw press (just under $1 million) was approved by council this evening as the next phase in the digester project. Once online, it will provide 100% dewatering capabilities to handle more sludge with additional storage. Discussion Items - Flooding (Councilman Paul): Councilman Paul reported that businesses and residents in his ward experienced flooding in June. He stated that the city is working towards solutions but nothing will happen overnight, and plans are being put in place to improve conditions. - Silicone Foundry Project (Councilor — name not stated): A councilor acknowledged the community's response to the Center Foundry property. The councilor reported having spoken with over 400 residents about the silicone foundry project and stated that residents are overwhelmingly opposed to it, with only a handful in favor. The councilor praised the community for uniting, supporting each other, and calling for action. - E-Bike Concerns (Councilor Slider): Councilor Slider raised concerns about e-bikes traveling at high speeds (up to 35 mph) on streets and trails. He suggested looking into signage or enforcement efforts, particularly along the walking trail. He noted that this is an emerging issue. Key Outcomes - All three ordinances authorizing city manager expenditures were approved (unanimous voice votes). - Minutes from previous meetings were approved (June 15, 2026 council and finance committee) or held over (GWSC). - Appointments to the HOME Consortium, Human Rights Commission, and Tree Board were ratified unanimously. - The city manager's report and reports from council members were received as information. - Next steps: The TCI building demolition funding will be presented to council in the coming weeks. The screw press installation will proceed for the digester project. Council will consider potential e-bike regulations.

The Wheeling City Council met on June 15, 2026, to address budget revisions, routine chemical purchases, property conveyance, equipment procurement, and proclamations. The meeting included the mayor's report, clerk's report, consent items, and original propositions, with votes on multiple ordinances and resolutions. Consent Calendar - The minutes of the June 2, 2026 City Council meeting were approved as received. - Planning commission minutes from April 13, 2026, and recreation commission minutes from March 2026 were accepted as received. Proclamations & Public Announcements - Mayor McGruder read a proclamation designating June 19, 2026, as Juneteenth Independence Day in Wheeling, encouraging residents to participate in ceremonies and activities highlighting African American history and the significance of freedom and equality. - The mayor also announced that the Wheeling Military Banner Program will feature several KIA dedications this year; the first ceremony honors Captain David E. Van Camp on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 141 Kruger Street in Elm Grove. - The mayor clarified that the homeless task force is in formation, with two components: improving service delivery for homeless individuals and reducing adverse impacts on the community and downtown. Leadership will be faith-based to ensure a non-biased approach. Mayor's Report - The meeting was rescheduled to meet the state budget revision deadline of June 15. - The homeless task force is being established with faith-based leadership to address service delivery and community impact. Clerk's Report - Notices of applications to the West Virginia ABCA were received for smoker-friendly locations at 1227 Warwood Avenue and 100 South Huron Street, and for Drizzi's Tobacco at 2151 Market Street. Unfinished Business - Conveyance of Real Property: An ordinance authorizing the conveyance of property at 521 South Penn Street to the Ohio Valley ADC was approved. - Consolidation of Ordinances 2–4: Approved. These ordinances authorize expenditures for routine chemicals for the water pollution control plant: $253,184 to SNF Polydyne for polymer; $160,160 to JCI Jones for sodium hypochlorite; $46,065 to PBS Nullwood for sodium bisulfite. - Consolidation of Ordinances 5–13: Approved. These ordinances authorize expenditures for routine chemicals for the water treatment plant: $140,700 to PBS Technologies for ferric chloride; $55,176 to PBS Nullwood for citric acid; $72,000 to Jacoby Carbons Inc. for powdered activated carbon; $123,200 to JCI Jones for sodium hypochlorite; $36,660 to PVS Nullwood for sodium hydroxide; $21,330 to Barbara's Chemical for sodium bisulfite; $65,760 to Bonding Chemicals Inc. for potassium permanganate; $67,500 to PVS Nullwood for phosphate liquid corrosion inhibitor; $21,600 to PVS Nullwood for hydrofluosilicic acid. Remarks from Council Members - Councilor Thorngate: Reminded that the Elm Grove Civic & Ford 6 Crime Watch meeting will be held Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. Also noted July 4th fireworks in Wheeling and July 5th Patterson Fireworks in Elm Grove, sponsored by the city and Elm Grove Civic. - Councilor Kane: Reminded of Juneteenth events starting Friday at the Plaza Market. Thanked Assistant Manager Bill Lannham in operations for resolving a resident's issue. - Vice Mayor Skolavonakis: Highlighted recent festivals – Pride Festival at Heritage Port (thousands attended), Wing Festival at Center Market; upcoming events include Tapping Tuesdays at Garden Park, Waterfront Wednesdays, Fun Fests at Wheeling Park, and events at Heritage Port every Saturday. Thanked the Wheeling Police Department for increased patrols in downtown, noting improved public safety and community confidence. Encouraged residents to participate. - Additional note: The Jamboree Wheeling event is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2026. City Manager's Report - Street Paving: The paving contract for general fund and city service fee is out to bid; bid opening is July 8, 2026. Expected to come to council the second meeting in July. - Demolition of Former TCI Building in Elm Grove: Bid opening scheduled for July 1, 2026. Factors include potential DLAP program funding (not yet received), proximity to AEP power lines, and traffic control issues with the West Virginia Department of Transportation. The project includes environmental remediation and asbestos abatement. - Demmy Dale Playground Equipment: Requested two readings on the ordinance to take advantage of a 50% discount from the supplier, requiring a contract by June 26, 2026. Council approved a second reading. - Budget Amendment: The proposed budget revision for fiscal year 2025-26 nets a zero dollar increase overall (previously stated as $334,000 increase; corrected to zero). - Wastewater Treatment Plant: The sludge digester project is progressing well. Primary clarifiers have been cleaned; primary digester is operational; secondary digester near completion. The intense odor issue has been significantly reduced. Councilor Kane noted water taste/smell complaints from Woodsdale, Ward 5, and Ward 6; water is tested multiple times daily and is 100% safe; treatment process is addressing seasonal issues. Original Propositions (Votes and Approvals) - Whiteside of St. Clairsville, Ohio: $117,564 for four 2026 Chevy Trailblazers for the Building and Planning Department (project fund). Approved. - Seppinson Equipment Inc., Harrisburg, PA: $143,590 for a JCB Backhoe Loader for Operations Department (project fund). Approved. - Esmo Corp, Mogadore, OH: $999,929 for water equipment for the Water Pollution Control Plant (2025 water bond). Approved. - Transfer to Greater Wheeling Sports and Entertainment Authority: $65,000 from Arena RCIP for sports-related facility projects analysis and activities. Approved. - Game Time, Charlotte, NC: $54,203.77 for Demmy Dale Playground Recreation Equipment (project fund). Approved after second reading. - Resolution for Wheeling Heritage Trail Connector Project: Authorized an agreement for a grant from the West Virginia Division of Highways for a special state-funded recreational trails project, connecting downtown to the trail system. Approved. - Budget Revision No. 4 for Fiscal Year 2025-26: Adopted. The overall net increase is zero. Adjournment - The meeting was adjourned upon a motion and second.

The Wheeling City Council met on May 19, 2026, to address a demolition contract, public comments on historic preservation, council member remarks, city manager reports, and several original propositions. The meeting opened with a prayer and pledge of allegiance, followed by roll call (quorum present) and approval of the May 5, 2026 meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Kirby Pringle (104 14th Street) expressed strong opposition to the city's demolition practices. He argued that buildings 50 years or older with cultural, historic, or architectural significance should be preserved. He requested an environmental impact report or historic structures report before demolitions, criticized current urban development policies as "disastrous," and urged the council to consult a professional historian. He noted a large group of frustrated residents shared his concerns. Discussion Items - Demolition Contract (Ordinance) – The council considered an ordinance authorizing a $104,800 expenditure with Edge Co of Lansing, Ohio for abatement and demolition of ten properties, funded by a West Virginia CDBG grant. City Manager Heron explained the buildings underwent a rigorous evaluation by the building department and the Historic Landmarks Commission. He noted the state may not fully fund the contract. The ordinance was approved after a motion and second. - Streetscape & Bioswales – During the city manager's report, Councilwoman Kane raised concerns about a vehicle driving into a bioswale. Heron explained the bioswales are part of stormwater management required for the streetscape project and that fencing was not planned, comparing it to Heritage Port where walking near the river is permitted. - Fireworks and Four-Way Stop (Original Propositions) – Two ordinances were introduced: one to create a four-way stop at 18th and Wood Street, and another authorizing $66,000 for a fireworks display with the Wheeling Symphony. No vote was taken on these ordinances; they were read and may be considered at a future meeting. Key Outcomes - Minutes Approved – Meeting minutes from May 5, 2026, were approved unanimously. - Demolition Ordinance Adopted – Ordinance authorizing $104,800 for demolition of ten properties passed. - Resolution Adopted – Resolution approving the fiscal year 2026 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Home Investment Partnership Programs, authorizing the annual action plan filing with HUD, was approved unanimously. - Hall of Fame Board Minutes – Minutes from April 14, 2026, were held over for further review. - Mayor's Report – Congratulated the Wheeling Nailers on winning a game in the Eastern Conference Finals and wished residents a safe Memorial Day weekend. - Council Remarks – Councilwoman Kane thanked volunteers for a downtown cleanup, noted paving improvements on South Entable Street, and urged community support for the Nailers. Councilman Palmer reminded of the Ward 6 crime watch meeting and Memorial Day weekend travel adjustments. Councilman Sarrow had no remarks. - City Manager Report – Provided updates: Clay School demolition is 50% complete; Glenwood Road slip project completed, paving next week; streetscape project nearing completion on Market Street and cross streets, with landscaping turnover expected within two weeks; bioswales are functioning as stormwater management, with accidents considered unfortunate but not prompting changes.