By Hannah Heishman
The Moorefield Town Council met Tuesday, Sept. 2 at the Town Hall. The meeting was brief but productive.
Amy Greenwalt noted two different building or improvement projects approved in August worth over $1 million, including a 20-unit senior residential complex on Maple Avenue with an estimated cost of $3.9 million. The total year-to-date improvement value in Town is almost $7.5 million.
Twenty-two property owners were contacted about 24 separate code violations in August, mostly overgrown grass and weeds. There was one legal action taken, a property owner ticketed for not handling a junked vehicle.
Greenwalt announced an Open House Workshop for Moorefield’s comprehensive plan, Oct. 27 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Town Hall. The public is encouraged to attend to ask questions and provide input.
Moorefield Police officer Jon Baniak presented the department’s brief. The MPD had 134 calls for service in August: two felony arrests; 16 misdemeanor arrests; 43 traffic citations and 34 traffic warnings.
The department helped the Department of Homeland Security investigate identity theft suspects in Moorefield, and assisted the State Police with a destruction of property investigation.
At a Department of Justice press conference in Elkins, the MPD was acknowledged for their work with the Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force.
One new officer completed the police academy, and two applicants received polygraph examinations.
Council members raised the issue of speeding, particularly on Maple Ave., Main Street and Winchester Ave.
Lucas Gagnon, Public Works Director, was next. He reported the Town received the dozer the Council approved for purchase at the last meeting: “It’ll be well-used,” he said.
Gagnon reported a study is ongoing about placing a stoplight at the U.S. 220/Harness Road intersection, as well as discussion whether to drop the speed limit from 45 mph to 35 mph.
Trick-or-Treating will be Saturday, Nov. 1 from 5:30 until 7:30 p.m.
A 30-minute executive session concluded when the Council authorized Gagnon the ability to negotiate a land purchase “up to the decided amount.” Just as with personnel concerns, the details involved with potential land purchases are discussed in executive session, and not publicized.
The next meeting is Tuesday, Sept. 16 at 7 p.m. at Town Hall. The public is encouraged to attend.
