By Dakota Baker
Ronceverte City Council held its monthly meeting on Monday, June 2. In attendance were councilmembers Gail White, Tonya Hazelwood, Leah Smith, Ashley Guet, and Mark Trent (via phone), along with Mayor Deena Pack. The meeting began with the approval of the minutes from the May 5 public comment meetings regarding the zoning on Academy Street and the Home Rule program. The minutes from both meetings were approved. Then, the minutes from the regular city council meeting on May 5 were also approved.
The first item on the agenda for old business was ordinance 2025-03, relating to the zoning change on Academy Street. The city had already held two public hearings regarding the proposed amendment, and the council made a motion to read by title only, which was granted. This amendment of the City of Ronceverte Zoning Ordinance would allow the official use of the former Ronceverte Elementary School property on Academy St. The zoning for the listed property is industrial, and the proposed amendment will change it to the R1 low-density residential district. Multiple uses are approved under R1 low-density. This applies only to the Ronceverte Elementary School property; it does not apply to any of the other properties along Academy St., and any future buildings that will be erected on the old elementary school property must qualify as usable under the R1 low-density guidelines. The council members approved Ordinance 2025-03.
Next on the agenda was ordinance 2025-04, related to the proposed Home Rule sales tax. This ordinance was also read by title only. It would allow the City of Ronceverte to implement a one percent additional sales tax in January 2026 if the town chooses. The city can impose either the one percent sales tax or a Business and Occupation (B&O) tax, but not both. The city council will decide which route to take in that regard. The council approved Ordinance 2025-04.
Lastly on the agenda for old business, some changes were approved to the personnel handbook.
On the agenda for water-related business, an extension was approved for the performance period of the stormwater project.
Resolution # 9 was read by title only, which concerns invoices relating to the design and construction of the water upgrade phase 4 project. An invoice from E.L. Robinson for $15,000 for various activities performed will be submitted to Region 4 for payment. The council members approved Resolution # 9 for the payment of this invoice.
Resolution # 10 was also read by title only. Resolution of the City of Ronceverte, invoices related to the design and construction of the stormwater infrastructure improvement project and authorizing payment thereof. E.L. Robinson Engineering and Spilman, Thomas, and Battle are requesting payment.
Under new business, the council addressed the second round of bidding for the demolition of dilapidated buildings. A rebid was necessary after the timeframe for the original bid expired. The winning bid of $87,000 covers the Grant Theater, the former Christian Church, and a house on Greenbrier Avenue. Salvageable items will be preserved from the Grant Theater to support the creation of a memorial. A professor from Marshall University has been contacted to help with the planning, ensuring the memorial appropriately honors the theater’s Black history and its architect. The council approved the award of the sealed bid.
Another sealed bid for the removal of the dilapidated buildings in round three includes the old Ellis House, two properties on Lewisburg Avenue, and two additional properties. The winning bid was $59,000, which was approved. Monies for the removal of the dilapidated building comes from grant funding and is not drawn from the city’s budget.
Next, council reviewed a letter regarding consideration for a flea market in Ronceverte by Wayne and Martha Morgan, to be located in Island Park. Mayor Pack proposed that the flea market begin on Saturdays after the river festival and be on a probationary period. If it goes well, they can consider extending it to Tuesdays as well. The flea market was approved for the probationary period.
Additionally, the Horseshoe League has requested a review and consideration of adjusting the fence at the dog park to allow access to the picnic shelter. The vote on this request was postponed until the council members walk the dog park to review the fencing before making a decision.
In other news, there is an opening on the Zoning and Planning Commission, so the council is accepting letters of interest from citizens who live within city limits. Please call City Hall for more info.
Mayor Deena Pack recognized Colleen Walton for 60 years of outstanding service in Ronceverte.
An issue regarding a speed bump on Clay St. was also considered. The speed bump had been removed after some damage had been done by a snowplow, and due to the bump’s proximity to other stop signs. A concerned citizen wants it replaced, while other residents do not. Until the council can collect more information to make an informed decision, children at play signs will be placed in the area.
The council recommended that Rob Alkire be promoted to Deputy Chief, and this recommendation was approved.
Pam Mentz was approved to remain as city administrator.
Additionally, a motion was granted for Officer John King, who will serve as the new K9 dog handler and assume the associated duties.
Sadly, Gail White announced her retirement from the Ronceverte City Council after 15 years of service, stating, “I hate to give it up, but it’s time.” The Monday meeting was the last she would attend.
The next meeting will be held on Monday, July 7.
