Jennifer Bolian

The City of Parkersburg's Five-Year Consolidated Plan outlines a strategic direction for housing, community, and economic development, primarily benefiting low- and moderate-income residents in Parkersburg and Wood County. Key priorities include improving the quality and supply of affordable and accessible housing, providing support for homeless and special needs populations, enhancing public facilities and services, fostering economic development through job creation and business growth, and ensuring effective program administration. The plan aims to create a suitable and sustainable living environment by addressing critical needs and expanding opportunities.

The City of Parkersburg's FY 2025-2029 Five-Year Consolidated Plan outlines strategies and goals for improving housing conditions, establishing a suitable living environment, and enhancing economic opportunities. Key priorities include housing, addressing homelessness, serving other special needs, community development, economic development, and administration, planning, and management. The plan aims to improve the quality of housing, provide support services for homeless and at-risk individuals, enhance public facilities and infrastructure, and promote economic empowerment for low- and moderate-income residents.

The agenda includes discussion of cash carryover, a $5,000 request from the Homeless Coalition, and a $45,000 request to move funds within the street department to purchase a pothole patcher. The minutes from a previous meeting include a discussion of a $5,000 request from House to Home, which was postponed for two weeks to allow for a financial breakdown to be provided.

The 2024 Annual Action Plan (AAP) for the City of Parkersburg and Wood County details strategies for addressing housing and community development needs. Key areas of focus include increasing the supply of affordable housing, improving living conditions for homeless and special needs populations, upgrading community facilities and infrastructure, and expanding economic development opportunities. The plan outlines strategies for utilizing Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnership Program (HOME) funds, leveraging additional resources, and addressing barriers to affordable housing. Citizen participation was sought through public hearings and consultations with various agencies and organizations. The plan emphasizes collaboration with community partners to achieve its goals and improve the quality of life for residents.

The Code Review Committee continued its review of the City Code, focusing on a draft urban deer management ordinance and amendments to parking regulations, fortunetelling, gypsy license fees, and building codes. Discussion included enforcement of animal ordinances, potential increases in fines and penalties, and the registration of vacant properties. A motion to draft an ordinance for urban deer hunting was approved, while action on vacant property registration was postponed.