By Stephen Smoot
The Sept 27 meeting of the Harrison County Commission opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and an invocation said by Susan Thomas, county commission president. As part of her prayer, she said “Help us to hear anew Lord, the Word you would have us hear.”
The commission, for the second consecutive week, honored more staff who have given 30 or more years of service. These included Patrick Echard, Allen Ferree, Randall Glaspell, Patricia Shiflet, Tammy Stonestreet, and Richard Valdez.
Last week, the commission recognized Andrew Bailey, Michael Book, Paul Bump, James Copenhaver, Christopher Cutright, Roger Lindsay, Bryan Lowther, and Jacqueline McGinnis.
The first funding request came for the Honor Flight. According to the request, the funds would support “the cost of flying out American heroes to Washington DC to see the monuments and memorials built in their honor.”
The individual making the request could not be present, but Commissioner David Hinkle said “I don’t have a problem with approving it.” He then suggested that the county grant the $10,000 requested to help cover the total cost of $160,000. Thomas countered with “How about $15,000?” which met with general assent, then the county commission’s approval.
Next, Doris Dean stepped forward, representing the Daughters of the American Revolution’ Daniel Davisson Chapter. She started by saying “thank you for inviting me to be here today,” then discussed their request for $3,200 in assistance.
“Our request for funding is for general maintenance and upkeep” of a cemetery established by Daniel Davisson in 1790. Also the site of Clarksburg’s first church, Hopewell Baptist, the D. A. R. first received trusteeship in 1911. It passed through other hands before being resumed by the D. A. R.
Commissioner Patsy Trescot asked about volunteers for upkeep. Dean replied that they usually do, but sometimes have to hire help. The Liberty High School Future Business Leaders of America often provide essential labor.
Hinkle moved to provide $4,000, which the commission approved.
Next, the commission discussed recent flood damage to rail trail bridges over Brown’s Creek in Mt. Clare. Floodwaters washed out the approaches to six bridges on the trail, leading to their closure for public use. It also built up trash and debris against the bridge.
Hinkle noted that “some of those areas around the bridge headings are pretty washed out.” Each remained in danger of further damage if flooding occurs again.
Thrasher bid repairs out to three companies with “Dirt Doctor” providing the low bid of $46,800 to remove the trash and debris and receiving approval for the work.
Commissioners agreed that the washed out approaches constituted an emergency and that repair could either be done by the county or bypass the normal bidding process.
