Timothy J. LaFon

The Planning & Zoning Commission meeting addressed amendments to zoning articles concerning property structures and recreational vehicles. Key discussion centered on Article 1333.03 regarding accessory structures, specifically amending the prohibition against outdoor play equipment (such as trampolines and play sets) in the front yard to allow them, provided they meet a minimum 15 ft setback from the front property line and 3 ft from side property lines. Public comments raised concerns about liability, neighborhood aesthetics, safety (children running into the street), and grandfathering existing installations, including basketball hoops. The commission also reviewed changes to Article 1333.08 regarding recreational vehicles, proposing an increased minimum setback from 4 feet to 15 feet from the front property line and 3 feet from side property lines, prompting discussion about lot size limitations and potential tiered setbacks based on vehicle height.

The public hearing addressed two primary issues: an ordinance regarding changes to the zoning code concerning signage, and an ordinance to increase the city service fee. Regarding the service fee increase, which amounts to a 20% increase ($5 a month or $60 annually), it was noted that the last increase occurred in 2009. Discussion also centered on enforcement issues related to yard brush and tree limb removal by contractors, where the responsibility for disposal costs and liability was raised. The council decided to refer the issues concerning brush/tree limb disposal and contractor enforcement to the ordinance committee for inclusion in the clutter ordinance, ensuring the responsible party (contractor or resident) is held accountable.

The City Council meeting began with an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Key discussion points included praise and recognition for community events such as the Pup Crawl, which raised money for the ALB, and other activities like two car shows and trunk-or-treat events. Public Works was commended for recent improvements including sidewalk installation and curb movement at the office, and similar work in neighborhoods. The council approved the payment of bills totaling $19,424.66. Appointments to various committees and boards, including the St. Albans CVB, Park Committee, and Historical Society, were confirmed. Announcements covered upcoming events like the Festival of Lights schedule, Veterans Day observance, and the Veterans Parade. A resident addressed the council requesting reconsideration of the city's ban on backyard chickens, leading to a discussion regarding the proper procedure for introducing new ordinances and the need for supporting data.

The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by praise and recognition, which included welcoming a new police officer, Mark Sanders, who was subsequently sworn in. The council recognized Lieutenant Sheila Pinson on her birthday. Council commended John and his team, including Brian Morrison, for clearing significant limb overgrowth on Adams Avenue following heavy rains. The council approved the minutes from the July 21st, 2025 meeting. Under new business, the council adopted a resolution approving the St. Albans Police Department operational policy and procedures regarding body-worn and in-car cameras, which are being implemented using Shelmore Capital grant funds. The council referred two zoning code changes to the Planning and Zoning (PNZ) committee for further discussion: one concerning playground equipment in front yards and another regarding boats and trailers in yards. The finance committee reported recommendations, resulting in the approval of payment for current invoices totaling $27,664.52, payment to Pride Heating and Cooling for emergency HVAC replacement, purchase of a breathing air compressor for the Fire Department, purchase of prior opioid education materials, and purchase of 3M headsets for the Police Department SRT. Reports noted that the recycling vehicle truck is down, and the last day for the public pool is August 10th. Announcements included dates for upcoming committee meetings and a notice about a dementia-friendly event on August 16th.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to recognition segments, including a certificate of recognition presented to Miss Patty Swingo from the Governor of West Virginia for her community service, and a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol to honor Chief Mark A. Gilbert's 30-year retirement from the Police Department, including a commendation letter from President Donald John Trump. State Treasurer Larry Pack addressed the council, praising the community's efforts and advocating for local control in governance. Recognition was also given to the St. Albans 9/10 year old Allstars softball team for being state runners-up, and certificates were presented to players and coaches. Under finance committee reports, the council approved current invoices totaling $30,252.56 and authorized payment of $9,000 to Rodney Loftess and Sons for the demolition of a property at 2624 Washington Avenue. Approval was also granted for payment of $8,232.46 to Worldwide Equipment for garbage truck repairs. Finally, a notice of application for a sports bar and grill license for Hatrickx LLC was noted.