By Adam Pack
The Greenbrier County Commission sat for a brief meeting on the morning of Nov. 22 to discuss upcoming projects around the county.
The commission began its new business with consideration of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) monies for partial funding to expand and remodel the health department building. “We have decided with our ARPA funds … to use $2.5 million for the water line extension from Sam Black Church to Asbury, and then the balance we’ll put toward the remodel and expansion of the health department building in Fairlea,” explained Commissioner Lowell Rose.
However, the subsequent proposal for boundary and topographic survey services by Terradon for the expansion and remodel was tabled after Commissioner Rose said the Commission still has some questions about this item. The commission was also slated to consider the approval of a subrecipient grant agreement by and between the Greenbrier County Commission and Public Service District No. 2. This agreement dealt with the use of ARPA funds for the extension of public water from Charmco to Rainelle, Sam Black to Clintonville, and Alta and Asbury. However, for similar reasons described by Lowell in regard to the Terradon survey services request, the item was tabled. The commission reassured the public that both items will be ready for full discussion and consideration at the Dec. 6 meeting of the commission.
The commission also met to certify the results of the 2022 election as presented by County Clerk Robin Loudermilk. Loudermilk informed the commission that the numbers presented were those updated after final canvassing was completed. The commission received the results and certified them, with Commissioner President Tammy Tincher adding, “All of us here at the commission would like to thank Robin for the dedicated work that she and her staff do to make sure we have smooth and efficient elections, and we did again this year, with no major issues.” Commissioner McClung added that, “Voter turnout was up a bit from previous non-presidential election years, so to all those who did that civic duty: thank you.”
The Commission also approved contracting the BHM CPA Group for audit services for the county. The Commission explained that this company was selected after applications by the county had been sent to six agencies, but that BHM applied to the county. BHM has provided auditing services to the county in the past, and the commissioner noted that the price has gone up slightly due to cost increases generally. The contract for auditing services amounts to $26,000.
Lastly, the commission approved the application of Russ Cronquist of White Sulphur Springs for a vacancy on the Greenbrier County Planning Commission. Cronquist’s application was “thorough and well done” according to Tincher, who recommended Cronquist highly. “He has a background in business, broadcast engineering, electrical engineering, and has been involved with the military. He’s incredibly interested in Greenbrier County and I think this will be a good addition.” The commission approved Cronquist’s hiring unanimously.
The Greenbrier County Commission will meet again for their next regularly scheduled meeting on Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. The public is encouraged to attend.