The Feb. 11 White Sulphur Springs City Council meeting began on a high note when city employee Frances Newsome took the floor to comment on the recent improvements and revitalization efforts seen throughout the city.

“I was born and raised here in White Sulphur, and I love this town,” said Newsome. “I just wanted to get up and say that I’m so excited about all the things that are happening in White Sulphur. I am very grateful to have a front row seat to see all the wonderful things happening.”

Following Newsome’s comments, concerned citizen David Leadman approached the council to notify them of a large tree that is hanging precariously over the banks of Dry Creek. The tree has been there for several years, and is a popular swimming hole due to the strong lean of the tree over the water, which makes for an excellent rope-swinging spot. However, if the tree should fall, the roots might take out most of the embankment along with it or cause a dam effect and block the waterway, increasing the risk of flooding. The council said they would keep an eye on the situation.

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Earlier this week, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration announced that White Sulphur Springs would be the recipient of a $1.5 million grant that will pay for new water lines to be installed from the city all the way to the site of the WV Great Barrel Company.

“It’s a pretty big deal,” said Mayor Bruce Bowling, as this money makes it possible for the new company to be operational, and roughly 50 homes in the Greenbrier State Forest region will be able to take advantage of the new lines, as well.

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Councilmember Mary Collins reminded the council that White Sulphur will be holding another city cleanup from Feb. 25 through Mar. 22. “People can take trash and extra appliances to the curb and the city will dispose of them at no charge,” said Collins, and emphasized that the program does not accept tires. To take advantage of the program, residents must simply call the city when they are ready for their items to be picked up from the curb.

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Pat Harper provided her monthly update on the Main Street Revitalization committee, and said the group is planning to participate in Business After Hours on June 6 at Bran Paisley Park. Harper reported that their recent chili dinner had over 50 attendees and was a great success.

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In closing, the council approved to fund the $500 Dandelion Pageant Scholarship as they have in years past. The next meeting will be held on Mar. 11 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.