Pictured (l-r): Jason Asbury, Chief Mike Mullins, and K-9 Officer Makenzie White with Cash.
Prior to regular business at the Hurricane City Council meeting of September 5, Jason Asbury presented a check for $741 to the City to be used to support the Hurricane Police Department K-9 Unit. The money is the proceeds from the Meeks Mountain Muddy Mutt 15K Trail Race that took place on March 19, 2022 on the Meeks Mountain Trails in Hurricane.
Also prior to regular business, Mayor Scott Edwards read a proclamation declaring September 10, 2022 to be First Responder Day. Meghan Hutchinson, Chairwoman of the Putnam County Fire Service Board, thanked the City of Hurricane for its role in sponsoring a celebration at the FMC Sportsmens Club for all Putnam County First Responders.
In the regular business session, City Manager Andy Skidmore informed Council that ground is being leveled in preparation of the construction of athletic fields at Bridge Park. Skidmore reported that the installation of a bridge over the creek behind First Baptist Church has been delayed because of delivery issues. Hayslett Construction has contracted to install the bridge and is grading Bridge Park in preparation of the future athletic fields.
Skidmore reported that construction of an additional lane at the junction of State Routes 34 and 19 to allow improved access to Lynn Street is slated to begin within two weeks and that all construction will be performed during nighttime hours.
Police Chief Mike Mullins reported that his department responded to a total of 306 calls during August and made 267 traffic stops. The HPD made 12 arrests which were on State charges and 6 arrests stemming from City charges. HPD issued 111 citations and 151 warnings during the month. There were 19 accidents and 16 EMR calls to which the department responded.
In new business, the Council authorized Mayor Edwards to sign a drug settlement agreement which will provide funding for PRO officers in schools and police cruisers. Council also approved a resolution for submission of an application for emergency generators through the WV Office of Homeland Security.
In other business, Council approved the purchase of Parcel B of the Burton Roberts Cemetery in the Bloomingdale Subdivision for $10. The purchase will result in insurance coverage to the cemetery which is maintained by the City.
The next regular council meeting will be Monday, October 3, at 6:30 p.m.
