The Hurricane Council held the first reading of an ordinance which will provide up to $5 million toward the development of Bridge Park. The ordinance will allow the issuance of Revenue Bonds which will be payable from lease rentals. The ordinance forbids the use of tax revenue to be used for bond payment or interest.

Mayor Scott Edwards said that projected cost for the completion of the park is well below the $5 million which the ordinance will authorize. The ordinance is slated to become law after a hearing and second reading at the July 3rd council meeting.

In other new business, the council approved a Cable Television Agreement with Optimum, an Opioid Settlement Release with Mylan Pharmaceuticals, and city code amendments necessary to comply with West Virginia State Code.

Council approved the appointment of Scott Ashworth and Mark Green to the Hurricane Building Commission. Their terms begin July 1, 2023 and end June 30, 2028.

City Manager Andy Skidmore presented council with an upbeat report concerning interest in the Connollys Irish Pub building and progress toward the opening of The Creamery on Main Street.

Marketing & Development Director Amanda Ramey announced that the Hurricane 4th of July Parade will begin at 2:00 p.m. Festivities will follow at City Park with the Annual Farley Hot Dog Eating Contest getting underway at 5:00 p.m.

Prior to the start of regular business at the June 5 Hurricane City Council Meeting, Jason Asbury of Meeks Mountain Trails presented the Hurricane Police Department with a gift, a check for $1,193. The donation was made possible by proceeds generated by the Annual Meeks Mountain Muddy Mutt Run which was held earlier this year. The money will be used to support the HPD K-9 Unit.

Mayor Edwards announced that city offices will be closed on Monday, June 19, for observance of Juneteenth, and on Tuesday, June 20, for West Virginia’s Birthday.

The next regular council meeting is July 3 at 6;30 p.m.