County leaders demand transparency amid rising frustration over projects
August 22, 2024 | Berkeley County, West Virginia
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During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered on local infrastructure projects, health updates of community leaders, and ongoing frustrations with state-level communication regarding federal funding.
Steve Catley opened the meeting by expressing concern for Pat Murphy, the president of the school board, who recently underwent triple bypass surgery. Catley also mentioned Dr. Queen, a past president of the school board, who is currently hospitalized. Both individuals were acknowledged for their contributions to the community, and attendees were encouraged to keep them in their thoughts.
Catley reported positive progress on sewer and stormwater projects, particularly highlighting the completion of pump stations in Hedgesville and an ahead-of-schedule treatment plant project. However, he voiced frustration regarding the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) handling of stormwater permits. The board anticipates a lengthy resolution process with the EPA, potentially extending over a year. Catley proposed that the state accept their individual permit application to expedite progress, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by their county compared to municipalities.
The meeting also addressed federal funding for infrastructure improvements, including proposed roundabouts on Route 9. Catley expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these roundabouts, particularly at Hedgesville High School, and called for clearer communication from state representatives regarding project details. He criticized the lack of transparency in the decision-making process, stating that local officials often feel like they are rubber-stamping projects without adequate information.
Despite the frustrations, Catley noted that a motion was passed to approve the engineering phase for a $7 million project on Schoolhouse Road, although specifics remain unclear. He reiterated the need for an alternate route to alleviate increasing traffic congestion as the population grows.
The meeting concluded with Catley expressing hope for better communication in future discussions with state officials, emphasizing the importance of transparency for the community's understanding of ongoing projects.
Steve Catley opened the meeting by expressing concern for Pat Murphy, the president of the school board, who recently underwent triple bypass surgery. Catley also mentioned Dr. Queen, a past president of the school board, who is currently hospitalized. Both individuals were acknowledged for their contributions to the community, and attendees were encouraged to keep them in their thoughts.
Catley reported positive progress on sewer and stormwater projects, particularly highlighting the completion of pump stations in Hedgesville and an ahead-of-schedule treatment plant project. However, he voiced frustration regarding the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) handling of stormwater permits. The board anticipates a lengthy resolution process with the EPA, potentially extending over a year. Catley proposed that the state accept their individual permit application to expedite progress, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by their county compared to municipalities.
The meeting also addressed federal funding for infrastructure improvements, including proposed roundabouts on Route 9. Catley expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of these roundabouts, particularly at Hedgesville High School, and called for clearer communication from state representatives regarding project details. He criticized the lack of transparency in the decision-making process, stating that local officials often feel like they are rubber-stamping projects without adequate information.
Despite the frustrations, Catley noted that a motion was passed to approve the engineering phase for a $7 million project on Schoolhouse Road, although specifics remain unclear. He reiterated the need for an alternate route to alleviate increasing traffic congestion as the population grows.
The meeting concluded with Catley expressing hope for better communication in future discussions with state officials, emphasizing the importance of transparency for the community's understanding of ongoing projects.
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