MORGANTOWN, V.Wa. – Morgantown City Council has agreed to a special session to address downtown problems at the suggestion of city manager Paul Brake.
Brake added the issue requires input from multiple organizations, businesses, professionals and community members to find meaningful solutions. City leaders acknowledged the problem my require input from outside professionals.
The police department has become one of the major focuses of the issue because of allegations and evidence of drug use, panhandling and public intoxication.
Morgantown police chief Ed Preston was prepared to brief council on statistics, techniques and how to help, but that has been delayed.
Preston said,”It’s not a police issue, it’s not a social issue, it’s and “us” issue and everyone has skin in the game if you will.”
Faith based organizations, service providers, law enforcement and non-profits are expected to attend.
The meeting has been scheduled for Friday, October 11 from 9 a.m. to noon in city hall.