By Stephen Smoot
On the day set aside by the United States Government to serve as the due date for Americans to submit their tax information, Harrison County Commission President Susan Thomas called the meeting to order.
Commissioner Patsy Trecost provided the customary invocation, praying “We do not need to fear tomorrow, Lord, because you are already there. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.”
Commissioners heard presentations on unclosed estates in the first part of the meeting. They heard from counsel and others.
Scheduled for 10:10 was the recognition and proclamation of Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week. Commission President Thomas read off the proclamation that opened with “whereas the National Animal Care Association has designated April as National Animal Control Officer month” and “every day, animal control officers put themselves in potentially dangerous situations to protect the health and welfare of all kinds of animals and the public” and that “the Harrison County Commission recognizes and commends the work.”
Kassy Slack and her leadership team came to the Commission to hear the proclamation. She shared that “I am super honored to be here the second year in a row for this proclamation” and said she was thankful “to have our Commission back us.”
A subsequent proclamation recognized the diligent work of the Harrison County Animal Control Shelter. It expressed “sincere appreciation for the service of these officers and all of the staff and volunteers.” Commission President Thomas shared “you can’t say enough” about the people and their good work.
Next the Commission recognized National Telecommunicator Week. In recent years, 911 dispatchers have had their positions renamed “telecommunicator” as they use more advanced technologies to connect with both callers and emergency responders.
“And whereas 911 public safety telecommunicators make similar sacrifices in their personal life as fire fighters and emergency medical service workers” and have “heroically answered calls around the clock” to “provide appropriate guidance and instruction in difficult situations, all while promptly aiding first responders.”
They also serve as the voice on the line to guide someone who is hurt or scared, often through the worst moments of their lives.
A representative of Harrison County 911 shared that each Commissioner had observed personnel in action “and they always walk out saying ‘I couldn’t do that.’” The representative went on to say that “it takes a special breed to do what they do.”
Another proclamation was read for National Library Week. Commission President Thomas read that “these libraries provide free and open access to resources, technology, literacy initiatives, outreach services, and staff that help residents learn, grow, connect, and thrive.” She also named each Harrison County facility by name, including Lowe Public Library, serving Shinnston.
These facilities “really work tirelessly to be able to promote literacy and lifelong learning,” she added.
Commissioners next welcomed Timothy Curry, representing the Hotsinpillar Foundation. He came to discuss a special funding request to help defer some costs for the Fallen Stars 5K race. Curry noted that “we have always appreciated the Harrison County Commission’s sponsorship of our race,” which serves as the organization’s “biggest fundraiser of the year.”
The organization provides “donations to the families of fallen and injured officers . . . including the families of the two Guardsmen” attacked in Washington DC while on an anti-crime deployment. One was killed in the attack. Funds also go to support scholarships and expensive specialized equipment. That includes “bulletproof vests for canines.”
Their goal lies in getting at least one runner from each of the 55 counties in the Mountain State. Commissioners approved with enthusiasm the $5,000 request.
Stonewood Volunteer Fire Department also approached with a request for $3,000 to support their Fire Fighters’ Festival. Commissioners approved it. The Veterans of Foreign Wars also received $750 to support their Richard Aquina run and walk event.
Commissioners entertained a request to place an electric power pole “by the Courthouse to feed power into the Goff Building.” It was described as a project that would not cost the County. Commissioner David Hinkle made a motion to deny, but Commissioners Thomas and Trecost supported another motion to approve.
Next came a discussion on repairing or replacing the sidewalk in front of the County Courthouse, which is under the purview of the City of Clarksburg. “I have heard several complaints on the sidewalk,” noted Commission President Thomas.
City officials related that they are waiting on two developments to proceed with the sidewalk. The first is grant funding to assist with the cost of work. Officials also stated they wished to wait until “the state comes through and does their paving project.”
Commissioner Hinkle indicated support for the measure as well, stating that the continued state of disrepair is “a reflection on us as accountants.” City officials suggested that the County perform light maintenance until they could replace the area. Commissioner Trecost insisted that the replacement be made with concrete and not pavers or bricks that might not last as long.
The official affirmed that their plan was concrete as well.
Harrison County Administrator Laura Pysz-Laulis announced during her comment period that “Sunset Ellis Flea market will open April 25.”
