Development News for Weirton, West Virginia

Weirton Proclaims May 2026 Foster Care Awareness Month, Honoring Foster Families and NYAP

The City of Weirton proclaimed May 2026 as Foster Care Awareness Month, recognizing the efforts of the National Youth Advocate Program (NYAP) and the vital role of foster families, kinship caregivers, and adoptive families in providing stability and support to children in need. Mayor Dean M. Harris issued the proclamation, urging citizens to acknowledge the contributions of foster parents, caregivers, professionals, and partners like NYAP in improving the lives of children and families in West Virginia. The National Youth Advocate Program was specifically acknowledged for its work in recruiting, training, and supporting foster families and providing services to children and families. Flyers and business cards were made available to the city clerk to distribute.

Public Works Praised for Mural Installation and Event Center Improvements

Rachel Keeney expressed gratitude to the Public Works department for their assistance with projects at Top of West Virginia. This included the installation of a mural on the Blue Cat Coffee Building, which presented installation challenges but was successfully completed with the help of Paul and his crew. Public Works also assisted with work at the event center, such as trimming trees for better visibility of fireworks and repairing sheds for musicians. The efforts of the Public Works department were recognized for making downtown brighter and improving the event center facilities.

Demolition Contracts Approved; Housing Authority Members Reappointed; Water Board Nominee Withdraws

The council approved resolutions to enter into agreements for demolition services with Pulis Demolition for structures at 405 Baker Street and 3019 West Street. Additionally, three individuals were reappointed to the Housing Authority for the City of Weirton: Mr. Rudy McAllister, Ms. Emily McCoy, and Mr. Joseph Halo Jr. The proposed appointment of Mr. Lawrence Wright to the Weirton Area Water Board was withdrawn by Mr. Wright himself due to concerns, including safety concerns, stemming from Facebook posts, which he felt made it an unfavorable time to seek the appointment. Several council members expressed disappointment that Mr. Wright withdrew, citing his qualifications and the negative impact of online discourse.

Resident Claims Ordinance 1317 Still Violates City Charter; Questions Water Board Actions

Chris Gruda addressed the council regarding Ordinance 1317, stating it remains inconsistent with the city charter nearly a year after it was first raised. Gruda argued that city ordinances in West Virginia generally cannot supersede the charter, and definitions established by the charter require citizen approval for modification. Gruda expressed frustration over the lack of action, workshops, or genuine engagement regarding the ordinance and questioned the autonomy of water boards and their adherence to consent orders, citing customer complaints and ongoing violations. Concerns were raised about the management of the water system and plant, and the qualifications of new water board members. Gruda urged the council to consider the citizens' perspective and the law, questioning whether the city's decisions aim to regain trust in the water system or continue the current course.