A passing of a $60,000 grant application from the Land and Water Conservation Fund of the National Park Service was a major item on the agenda at the last White Sulphur Springs City Council meeting, held Monday, May 14. The $60,000 in funds, if acquired, would be used for lighting and electrical upgrades at the sports fields at Memorial Park. The city would have to provide $60,000 in matching funds in order to receive the grant, which would cover new lighting as well as construction of a pedestrian bridge across Howard’s Creek that will tie in with the downtown green space. The current lighting is over 30 years old, and the electric systems are in need of repairs following the flooding in June 2016.
- The White Sulphur Springs Volunteer Fire Department is partnering with the American Red Cross this month to install smoke detectors in local residences. Fire Chief Brian Dolin says those who are interested should reach out to the Red Cross at 304-645-1070.
- Pat Harper with the Main Street Revitalization Committee reported that the White Sulphur Springs Community Garden is now full, and the group is gearing up for the Dandelion Festival this year, set for May 25, 26, and 27. She added that Music in the Park events will continue this year, and they are working to line up performers.
- Kathy Glover requested the council make a motion to approve $500 in funds for the Queen Dandelion Festival Scholarship donation, which passed. The scholarship is something the council has supported in years past, the recipient of which will be selected through an interview process.
- Chad George was approved by the council to serve as a new board member on the White Sulphur Springs Library Board.
- The White Sulphur Springs Neighborhood Watch is a new group that meets monthly in White Sulphur Springs City Hall. Started by Patrolman Shannon Morris with the WSS Police department, the group hopes to help “regain a sense of community and aid the local police in reducing criminal activity within city limits.” The watch group is also led by Community Coordinators Candi and Lindsey Wolford. New members are welcome. Requirements to join the watch includes an application and background check (at no charge to the applicant), and applicants cannot have any felony convictions. Applications can be obtained at the White Sulphur Springs Police Department, and, once completed, need to be returned to the police department. For more information, contact Patrolman Morris at 304-536-1454, or email lindsey.wolford@gmail.com.
