MORGANTOWN, W.Va.— From curb painting to vagrancy, Morgantown City Council covered a number of topics in a 2-hour regular meeting.
Curb painting
Curb painting along narrow streets in the city had caught some residents by surprise and angered others who would lose parking on the streets adjacent to their property. Interim City Manager Glen Kelly previously requested the process be put on hold as the city drafted letters and mailed to residents impacted explaining the process. Morgantown Fire Chief Mark Caravasos presented the need for parking to be prohibited in many areas because fire engines and trucks too large to pass through in an emergency.
The fire chief said one street that had parking available on both sides “leaves me four feet to get my truck through. It won’t fit.”
As the process continues, Kelly recommended prohibiting parking with yellow curb paintings should be limited to one side as often as possible to avoid inconvenience but without risking safety.
WV Botanic Garden property lease agreement
Morgantown council voted unanimously to lengthen a leasing agreement with WV Botanic Garden for 82 acres called the Tibbs Run Property. It doubles from 25 years to 50 years.
West Virginia Botanic Garden Board President Bill Johnson is a scheduled guest on Morgantown AM at 8:40 Wednesday.
Downtown concerns
Vagrancy, loitering, panhandling and illegal activity continues to be brought to council’s attention following recent public remarks by Councilman Jay Redmond who called of action to rid the city of reported problems.
Two city residents spoke to council Tuesday, including the victim of a break in and attempted robbery, telling members they don’t feel safe in certain areas of the city.
During individual council member reports, each member noted problems and made suggestions on getting a grasp on areas of concern.
City “brunch bill”
While awaiting approval from the West Virginia Municipal Home Rule Board that would allow council to pass an ordinance allowing earlier alcohol sales on Sunday, council moved forward in a unanimous vote on the first reading of a local brunch bill.
The board meets prior to council’s next meeting where there will be a final vote regarding allowing on-premises alcohol sales at 10 a.m. rather than 1 p.m. on Sundays.
Executive Session
Morgantown city council met in executive session following the regular meeting for discussion about the search for a permanent city manager.