Upshur Commission issues proclamations, re-approves health department rate schedule

“I’m here to ask that you to approve a proposed rule entitled ‘Upshur-Buckhannon Health Department fees for permits and services.’ The proposed rule will establish fees for environmental permits and services.

“We are learning more and more on our level that the state is turning our authority over to county and city governments. The fees were increased last year, but we need approval from both you and the City of Buckhannon. This is not a new increase. It’s more of a back-date request that you approve for us so we are in compliance with the state,” McKisic said.

The last fee increase was in 2013, noted Commissioner Kristi Tenney.

Commissioners approved the request.

Commissioners also heard from Kathy McMurray, executive director of Mountain CAP. She provided an update on its activities.

“I always like to remind everybody about the promise of Community Action. Community Action changes people’s lives, embodies the spirit of hope, improves communities and makes America a better place to live. Mountain CAP is building foundations for individuals and families and communities through programs and partnerships that promote family stability and increased economic opportunities,” McMurray said.

She laid out broad demographics from 2023 in regard to people served and assistance provided.

“In 2023, we did serve 863 unique families, which represented 2,035 people. We’re about 52% women and 47% male, 95% white, and about 78% are at or below the poverty level. That’s a big number, so you can understand just how many people are struggling and why. Fifteen percent of those we serve have a disability, and 44% of the people we serve are at least working part-time. So having a job doesn’t always make a difference,” McMurray said.

“I think we’re doing pretty good at helping people become successful and what they need from us. The outcomes we achieved are across five primary domains, including childcare, education, Healthy Families, housing and economic stability,” McMurray said.

Peggy Rittenhouse, a community outreach and resource specialist with Mountain Heart Community Services, requested the commission declare May as Community Action Month.

“Community Action is celebrating its 60th anniversary, and we’re highlighting the crucial role it’s played in providing childcare services. As we acknowledge this milestone, it’s important to recognize the tireless efforts of childcare providers and teachers who work selflessly to support the children in our community. Their dedication and commitment have made a profound impact on the lives of countless young people, and we must show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication,” Rittenhouse said.

Agenda items approved included removing AAA Towing from the Upshur County Wrecker Rotation list due to its going out of business. AAA Towing had requested to be voluntarily removed.

Seasonal staff at the Upshur County Youth Camp was approved by the commissioners, effective May 27. Dorothy Crabtree was approved to be a volunteer at the Lewis Upshur Animal Control Facility.

The James W. Curry Public Library in Buckhannon was notified by the Pilcrow Foundation that it has been awarded a grant through the April 2024 Children’s Book project. The books provided through the project will be for the library’s permanent collection. The library is responsible for raising $400; the foundation will match the contribution two-to-one, for a total of $1,200 worth of books.

Commissioners approved appointing Commissioner Doug Bush to take over an unexpired term, as a land owner, on the Mountaineer Trail Network Authority.

The next regular meeting of the commission will be May 9 at 9 a.m. in the courthouse annex. The meeting set for May 16 has been canceled due to the Strawberry Festival. The commissioners will begin canvassing the May 14 primary election on May 20 at 9 a.m. in the County Clerk’s Office.