REGULAR MEETING ~ CITY COUNCIL PRINCETON, MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA June 8, 2020
A Regular Meeting of the Common Council for the City of Princeton, Mercer County, West Virginia was held in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 800 Bee Street, Princeton, WV on Monday June 8, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. In attendance were Mayor David Graham; Vice Mayor James Harvey; Council Members Marshall Lytton (remotely), Jacqueline Rucker, James Hill and Dewey Russell; City Manager Michael Webb, City Attorney Paul Cassell and City Clerk Kenneth Clay. A quorum was constituted thereby.
I. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Council Member Jacqueline Rucker invoked divine guidance for the conduct of the meeting and for peace, understanding and reconciliation among the diverse peoples of our nation.
Council Member Dewey Russell led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
II. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor David Graham called the meeting to order.
III. PROCLAMATIONS ~ PRESENTATIONS
There were no proclamations or presentations at this time.
IV. PUBLIC INPUT
PUBLIC HEARING: On the conveyance of a .35 acre parcel of City property to the Princeton Rescue Squad for the purpose of providing additional parking at the rear of the Rescue Squad’s new Training Center. In this public forum any interested citizen may come forward and be heard regarding the aforesaid transfer of City property.
After reading the notice of public hearing, Mayor Graham moved City Council into public hearing mode at 6:32 p.m. and called for public comments regarding the proposed conveyance of a .35 acre tract of City property to the Princeton Rescue Squad.
There were no comments forthcoming. Therefore, Mayor Graham declared the public hearing closed at 6:33 p.m.
MOTION: Dewey Russell moved City Council approve the conveyance of a .35 acre tract of City property to the Princeton Rescue Squad for the purpose of providing additional parking at the rear of the Rescue Squad’s new Training Center.
James Harvey duly seconded the motion.
The motion carried unanimously, but with Council Member James Hill abstaining. There was no other public input.
V. CONSENT AGENDA
Without correction, Mayor Graham declared the Consent Agenda approved and directed the City Clerk to commit the same to the record, as follows:
Minutes of the May 11, 2020, Regular City Council Meeting.
- POLICY AGENDA
- COMMITTEE REPORTS
- PUBLIC WORKS AND RECREATION COMMITTEE
- COMMITTEE REPORTS
Chairperson Jacqueline Rucker reported that the Public Works and Recreation Committee of Princeton City Council met on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, with the following to report out to City Council for action or as information:
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Monthly Report for May – Director Jackie Phillips presented the following report to the Committee for the Public Works Department:
Public Works crews completed work on 23 service requests for City residents in May and continued working on a storm drain at the north end of Young Street.
In addition, crews had removed four problem trees in City Park, as well as a large Weeping Willow tree behind the Frontier building on Bee Street. He added that a small portion of that tree remains and the last of the root system will be removed from the drain in the near future.
PARK AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Recreation Director Amanda McCabe presented the following report:
The Recreation Center remains closed at this time, but the City Park and playgrounds have reopened with new informational signs made by the Public Works Department.
Maintenance and mowing of the grounds in the City’s parks and playgrounds continue by the efforts of one Recreation employee, but a plan is in place to hire a part-time employee to assist with maintenance of the properties.
In addition, all programming at the Recreation Center continues on hold until further notice, but with the hope of resuming league play later this summer. However, Karate
classes may resume next week depending on the schedules of available staff and the instructor who rents a room at the Recreation Center.
City Manager Mike Webb reported that Appalachian Power had installed one new LED light in each of the Lower Pine and Washington Avenue Playground-Parks. The Oliver Avenue Playground will receive one new LED light pending the erection of a longer arm mount on the utility pole.
RAILROAD MUSEUM
The Railroad Museum remains closed.
2. PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
Chairman James Hill reported the Public Safety Committee of Princeton City Council met on Wednesday, June 3, 2020, with the following to report out to Council for action or as information and called on Code Enforcement Deputy Director Ty Smith to present his report, as follows:
CODE ENFORCEMENT DEPARTMENT
Monthly Report for May 2020 – Code Enforcement Director Ty Smith presented the following statistical report for May:
COMPUTATION OF COMPLAINTS
Summary – Property Maintenance
Initial Complaints 95
Cumulative Complaints to Date 38,051
Demolition/Renovation Programs’ Status
Condemnations/Unsafe in Process 20
Demolitions in Process (out for bid) 0
Renovations in Process 0
Demolitions w/Notice to Proceed 0
Total Demolitions to Date 679
Animal Control
| Complaints this Month | 11 |
| Impounded | 0 |
| Adopted | 0 |
| Euthanized | 0 |
| Reclaimed | 0 |
| Rescued | 0 |
|
Building Inspection Building Permits (Res. 7; Com. 15) |
22 |
| Total Inspections | 5 |
Total Project Costs $132,052.00
Permit Fees $ 1,320.00
Flood Plain Management
Flood Plain Determinations 22
Flood Plain Permits Issued 1
Zoning Official
Zoning Board Cases 2
Rental Compliance
Revenue in May: 0; Total to Date: $13,223.50
Registered Units May: Houses 0; Apts. 0; Other; 0; Units 0
Cumulative Total 21 Months: Houses: 297; Apts.: 506; Other: 61; Total: 864
Vacant Buildings
Registered Vacant Buildings in May: 0; Total: 13
Ty Smith also reported that Code Enforcement Officer Melissa Meachum reported back to work as of May 26, 2020.
Mayor David Graham asked Mr. Smith the actual number of rentals in the City. Ty Smith responded that the number of rental units is approximately 1,100.
He further explained that this amount is less than the original estimate of 2,000, which actually was too high.
Appointment of Code Enforcement Director – City Manager Mike Webb announced that he had appointed current Code Enforcement Deputy Director Ty Smith as Director of Code Enforcement, effective Wednesday, June 10, 2020.
By voice vote, City Council unanimously endorsed the appointment of Ty Smith as Code Enforcement Director.
Oath of Office – City Clerk Kenneth Clay administered the oath of office for Ty Smith as the Director of Code Enforcement.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
Statistical Report for May – Fire Chief Chad Bailey reported that during the month of May the Fire Department responded to 87 EMS calls and 25 fire calls; conducted five inspections, conducted one Certificate of Occupancy and issued 45 citations.
Chairman Hill asked for an explanation of the Fire Department’s new computerized
response system.
Chief Bailey explained that, through a cooperative agreement with Region I, the Fire Department would begin using computer tablets in the field during calls and inspections. He further explained that a Fire Department inspector, while standing at a property, can record its condition, identify the owner of record immediately and email a violation notice to the owner, all while present at the site. Also, all EMS and fire calls will be recorded in the data base and processed by Region I.
Ty Smith added that as far as property maintenance and enforcement, GIS mapping is critical for follow up inspections and for the creation of a record tracking all property maintenance cases. Mr. Smith added that he and Public Works Assistant Director Eric Gatchell had conducted a test run on the system and found it a remarkable aid in assuring accuracy and for reducing the time required to process the cases.
Chief Bailey noted that any call run by the Fire Department will be documented immediately with the new system.
POLICE DEPARTMENT
Statistical Report for May – Police Chief Tim Gray reported that during the month of May Princeton officers responded to 638 offenses, conducted 55 arrests and issued 381 citations. Chief Gray commented that these numbers reflect the Police Department has resumed a normal level of operations with Patrolmen back on the streets on a regular basis.
OSCR Imaging Unit – Chief Gray reported that the Police Department would be purchasing a new piece of equipment designed specifically for public safety applications. Designated as the OSCR360 imaging camera, the camera includes a 360 degree, spherical image capture and is used to document scenes such as municipal code violations, traffic accidents, environmental cases, arson investigations and homicide scene investigations.
Chief Gray described the imaging camera as a game changer for investigations.
3. FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Committee Member James Harvey reported the Finance and Administration Committee of Princeton City Council met on June 3, 2020, with the following to report out to Council and called on Finance Director Brian Blankenship to present his report, as follows:
FINANCE DEPARTMENT
May 2020, Financial Report – Finance Director Brian Blankenship reported that as of the end of May, the eleventh month of FY2020, the actual revenues collected stood at 105% of the budgeted amount, while actual appropriations were expended at a rate of 102%, as compared to the budget projects of 91.63% forecast for the end of May. Total funds available for City operations at the end of May were $842,986.
Noteworthy expenditures for May, 2020, were as follow: Travelers Insurance…………………………………………………………….. $95,366
Fire & Police Pensions……………………………. $30,573
Park & Recreation Appropriation…………….. $12,708
Vice Mayor James Harvey further reported that the Finance and Administration Committee approved and recommended the May 2020, Financial Reports to City Council, and he so moved.
Dewey Russell duly seconded the motion. The motion carried unanimously.
New Software – The Finance Director further reported that the Finance Department had entered the 21st Century with the installation of new computer software that allows citizens to pay accounts online and access the City more easily by signing up for city services at home.
PRINCETON PUBLIC LIBRARY
Vice Mayor James Harvey presented the following report on behalf of Library Director Sheen Johnson:
Phased Reopening Plan – The Princeton Public Library still is closed to the public, but is planning to do a phased opening which includes three phases, beginning July 1, 2020.
The Library will be offering curbside pickup from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday for phase one. We will then reevaluate the situation for phase two and open the Library with a reduced maximum occupancy, and with certain services available. Until that time, the Library will continue offering its “Curb Side
Wednesday’s” so there will be an opportunity to pickup items. The Library is also offering programs through Facebook, Zoom and Instagram.
Summer Reading Program – The Library’s Summer Reading Program began on May 30th, and through ReadSquared we have reinvented our Summer Reading Program into a virtual program for all age groups.
There is also the option to keep track of what each individual is reading, to participate in games, join programs and earn prizes. We are offering multiple prizes and goody bags, as well as the opportunity to join a raffle for a $25.00 Amazon Gift Card ( with two opportunities per age group).
The website for the Summer Reading Program is as follows:
http://princetonlibrarywv.readsquared.com/;
but information may also be found on our website at http://www.princetonlibrarywv.com.
The Library is offering programs like Battle Jeopardy, Slime Making Tutorials, Lab Squad Scientists (which is fun-at-home science experiments), Virtual Lego, Creating DIY Bird Houses and the regularly scheduled story times. All can be accessed virtually from home.
Appointment of Ward IV Council Member – Mayor David Graham opened the floor for nominations to fill the vacant Ward IV Council Seat.
Dewey Russell moved the nomination of Joseph Allen as the Ward IV Council Member. Mayor David Graham duly seconded the motion.
Jacqueline Rucker moved the nomination of David Johnston as the Ward IV Council Member. James Hill duly seconded the motion.
There were no further nominations.
City Attorney Paul Cassell called for a voice vote by the Council Members, as follows: Dewey Russell voted for Joseph Allen.
James Harvey voted for Joseph Allen. Marshall Lytton voted for Joseph Allen. Mayor David Graham voted for Joseph Allen. Jacqueline Rucker voted for David Johnston. James Hill voted for David Johnston.
Therefore, Mayor Graham declared Joseph Allen the appointee to the Ward IV Council seat by virtue of a vote of four for Mr. Allen and two for Mr. Johnston.
Oath of Office – The City Clerk administered the Oath of Office for Mr. Joseph Allen as the Ward IV Council Member.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Ordinance Addressing Parking on One-Way Streets – City Attorney Paul Cassell presented the following ordinance for first reading, by title, which he explained would permit the parking of motor vehicles facing oncoming traffic only on specifically designated one-way streets in the City of Princeton:
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING AND ADDING TO ARTICLE 301, “LOCAL REGULATIONS,” OF THE CODIFIED ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF PRINCETON, WEST VIRGINIA.
Mr. Cassell added that the WV Code strictly prohibits parking facing traffic on any two-
way roadways.
Jacqueline Rucker moved City Council accept the ordinance on first reading. James Harvey duly seconded the motion.
On voting, James Harvey, Marshal Lytton, Dewey Russell, Jacqueline Rucker, Joe Allen and Mayor Graham voted in favor of the motion. James Hill voted against the motion.
Therefore, the motion carried on a vote of six in favor and one opposed.
C. CITY MANAGER
City Manager Mike Webb thanked everyone for coming out to the meeting and maintaining social distancing.
Mr. Webb continued by congratulating Ty Smith on his appointment as Director of Code Enforcement and Joe Allen for his appointment as the Ward IV representative on City Council.
Mr. Webb commented that the City had done exceptionally well overall this year and will emerge from the current pandemic as strong as ever.
D. CITY CLERK
City Clerk Kenneth Clay acknowledged the consistent degree of professionalism and due diligence exhibited throughout the ranks of the Princeton Police Department during the years of his association with the officers in City Court.
E. HUMAN RESOURCES
Human Resources Director Wanda Donahue reported that the Public Works Department has begun mounting the Hometown Heroes Banners along City streets. During the preparations to erect the banners, it was discovered that some of the banners in use since 2015 had become faded and worn and had to be discarded. However, the sponsors will be notified and given the opportunity to replace the banners at a reduced cost, if they so desire. Also, Ms. Donahue informed that the sponsors may accomplish this by contacting her through the City’s website.
VII. COUNCIL ROUNDTABLE
James Hill – Mr. Hill began by commenting that he had no problem with people protesting peacefully and speaking their mind, but they should find a safer and more appropriate site other than the traffic triangle at the Mercer County Courthouse, such as on the sidewalk where they would be safe.
Continuing, Mr. Hill asserted that crosswalks are needed desperately between the Courthouse and the Annex, which is used extensively by people crossing between the two
buildings to conduct business.
The City Manager advised that he was in discussions with the County Commissioners regarding the crosswalks. Mr. Webb explained that since the streets around the Courthouse are State highways, permission must be obtained from the WV Division of Highways to install any crosswalks and this process will take time.
Mr. Hill continued by remarking that the speed limit signs the Police Department had deployed were working really well and offered congratulations to Princeton Community Hospital for its recent accomplishments.
Mr. Hill inquired of Mr. Stacey Hicks as to arrangements for the Fourth of July Fireworks in Princeton.
Princeton Rescue Squad CEO, Stacey Hicks, informed that the fireworks for the Fourth of July are set for 10:00 a.m. in the field adjacent to the Municipal Complex and behind the Rescue Squad. Mr. Hicks advised that the best places to view the fireworks are the Sav-a-Lot and Kroger parking lots on Stafford Drive. Mr. Hicks added that Star 95 radio will play patriotic music earlier in the day and an article will appear in the Bluefield Daily Telegraph.
Police Chief Tim Gray explained there will be sufficient parking for the fireworks and all should go well.
Fire Chief Chad Bailey remarked that the new location for igniting the fireworks means they will go higher which will enable people to see them from their cars.
Mr. Hill concluded his remarks by thanking the members of the City’s Administration for their assistance in making the arrangements and supporting the fireworks display.
Jacqueline Rucker – Council Member Jackie Rucker thanked everyone for coming out to the Council meeting. She then thanked the City’s department heads for their work on behalf of the citizens or Princeton and Reported Jeff Harvey for doing a great job in covering the City Council meetings.
Mrs. Rucker continued by extending congratulations to Joe Allen on his appointment to City Council and to Ty Smith on his appointment as Director of the Code Enforcement Department.
The Councilwoman concluded by stating that we all need to do our part to end bigotry and hatred in our country, while the City does its part to keep the peace.
Marshall Lytton – Councilman Lytton offered no comments.
Joseph Allen – Ward IV Council Member Joe Allen thanked City Council and Administration for the opportunity to serve the citizens of Ward IV. He described Princeton as a progressive City under the leadership of a progressive Council and department directors. Lastly, Mr. Allen expressed confidence that Princeton would continue to progress in all aspects of governance well into the future.
Vice Mayor James Harvey – Mr. Harvey congratulated Joe Allen on his appointment to the Ward IV Council seat and Ty Smith on being appointed as Director of Code Enforcement. The Vice Mayor also thanked Mr. Smith for the great job he had done as Deputy Director of Code Enforcement.
Mr. Harvey also thanked Mr. Stacey Hicks for his work in coordinating the community’s Fourth of July fireworks.
Dewey Russell – Councilman Russell expressed appreciation for Joe Allen acceptance of the position as the Ward IV Council Member.
Mr. Russell continued by acknowledging that he had worked for two years at the Princeton Rescue Squad with the other applicant for the Ward IV seat, David Johnston, who has been working as an active member of the City’s Building Commission.
Mr. Russell acknowledged Ty Smith and a wonderful member to the City’s administrative team, who is a professional in the conduct of his duties, and expressed that he was glad to have him now as the Director of the Code Enforcement Department.
Mr. Russell concluded by remarking that the City has good people on Council and quality department heads overall. The City also is blessed to have Princeton Community Hospital providing health services to the community and region.
Mayor David Graham – Mayor Graham first thanked everyone for attending the Council meeting and acknowledged that the Council currently is addressing a multitude of issues. He then thanked the Council Members for their diligence in working together on behalf of the citizens of Princeton.
The Mayor offered congratulations to Ty Smith on his appointment as the Director of Code Enforcement and acknowledged that Mr. Smith had worked to resolve issues in his neighborhood. The Mayor added that Ty Smith’s style fits well in his conduct of Code Enforcement’s affairs on behalf of the City.
Mayor Graham continued by thanking the businesses of the City for weathering the pandemic and remaining committed to the City of Princeton.
Mayor Graham next thanked all those who had attended the George Floyd ceremony in City Park and acknowledged the solemn, but peaceful nature of the gathering.
Lastly, the Mayor described all City departments as essential, in that the City could not function efficiently in its efforts to continue providing services to our residents . He also thanked all first responders and expressed appreciation for their work throughout the ongoing pandemic.
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, on motion, the June 8, 2020, Regular City Council meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.