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MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING- TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2025-10:00 Α.Μ.
AGENDA:
- OPEN WITH PRAYER
- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
- MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
APPOINTMENTS/REAPPOINTMENTS/OATHS OF OFFICE:
Opioid Task Force
Appointment and Oath of Office
Michelle Stewart
Katelyn Morgan
Wendy Ramose
Josh Farmer
Jordan Brown
RESOLUTIONS/RECOGNITIONS:
Resolution-Recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Brian Blankenship, Commissioner
Resolution Authorizing Use of Opioid Funding to Expand E-911 Paging Infrastructure in areas most affected by Overdose-Related Incidents
Brian Blankenship, Commissioner
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS:
Empire Salvage & Recycling, Inc.
Contract to Demolish Twenty Structures
Lori Mills, Dilapidated Structures Officer
Region One Planning & Development
McComas Waterline Extension
Drawdown #1
Ben Haring, Financial Assistant
FUNDING REQUESTS:
Deputy Sheriff’s Association
Shooting Range Upgrades
Steve Sommers, Capt.
The Wade Center
Mission Quarters Heaters
Betty Brainerd, Director
Camp Creek State Park Foundation
Fall Festival
Pam Buchanan/Josie Lester
DISCUSSION:
Department Reports
Keith Gunnoe, Emergency Management
Steve Cline, Recycling Coordinator
Stacey Harman, Animal Shelter Director
Mercer County Airport
Runway Extension Project
Bill Archer, President
Garden Oaks Channel Update
Taylor Bohon, Attorney
Matoaka Pavillion & Playground Update
Lori Mills, Dilapidated Structures Officer
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Keep Mercer Clean Initiative
Take Five Campaign
Greg Puckett, Commissioner
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
COMMISSION TO APPROVE THE FOLLOWING:
- Invoices
- Settlements
- Exonerations
- List of Approved Estates for August 2025
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RE: WEST VIRGINIA:
At a Regular Session of the County Commission, held for the County of Mercer, at the Courthouse thereof, on Tuesday, September 9, 2025.
Present:
Bill Archer, President
Greg Puckett, Commissioner
Brian Blankenship, Commissioner
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RE: OATH OF OFFICE-OPIOID TASK FORCE – MICHELLE STEWART
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Michelle Stewart to serve on the Opioid Task Force.
RE: OATH OF OFFICE – OPIOID TASK FORCE – CAITLIN MORGAN
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Caitlin Morgan to serve on the Opioid Task Force.
RE: OATH OF OFFICE-OPIOID TASK FORCE – WENDY RAMOS
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Wendy Ramos to serve on the Opioid Task Force.
RE: OATH OF OFFICE – OPIOID TASK FORCE – JOSH FARMER
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Josh Farmer to serve on the Opioid Task Force.
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RE: OATH OF OFFICE – OPIOID TASK FORCE – JORDAN BROWN (ZOOM)
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Jordan Brown to serve on the Opioid Task Force.
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RE: RESOLUTION – RECOGNITION OF CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Resolution – Recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Mercer County Commission
1501 West Main, Suite 210
Princeton, West Virginia 24740
Phone: (304) 487-8306
Fax: (304) 487-8370
Email: [email protected]
VICKY REED
County Administrator
BILL ARCHER
1322 Woodrow Avenue
BLUEFIELD, WV 24701
BRIAN BLANKENSHIP
882 Oakland Drive
PRINCETON, WV 24739
GREG PUCKETT
334 Pine Acres Way
PRINCETON, WV 24739
PROCLAMATION FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
WHEREAS, Approximately 9,550 children under the age of 15 will be diagnosed with cancer in the United States in 2025. Cancer is the leading disease-related cause of death In children ages 1 to 14.
WHEREAS, The cancer types that occur most often in children are different from the cancer types that occur mainly in adults. The most common cancer types in children are leukemias, lymphomas, and central nervous system tumors.
WHEREAS, Symptoms of cancer in children can look like other common childhood conditions. This can make it harder to identify early and delay a cancer diagnosis.
WHEREAS, All children should have regular checkups and should be taken to a doctor if they are having any unusual or unexplained symptoms that do not go away.
WHEREAS, Treatment for childhood cancer is based on the type and extent of the cancer. The main types of treatment used are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
WHEREAS, Childhood cancer rates have decreased more than half since 1970. This is largely due to improvements in treatment from clinical trials.
WHEREAS, National Childhood Cancer Awareness Month recognizes the courage and compassion of children and families throughout Mercer County, West Virginia, and the nation who have had and are currently battling childhood cancer.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that we, the Mercer County Commission, do hereby proclaim September 2025 as NATIONAL CHILDHOOD CANCER AWARENESS MONTH in Mercer County and encourage all citizens to join us in this observance.
DATED THIS 9TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025.
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION:
BILL ARCHER, PRESIDENT
GREG PUCKETT, COMMISSIONER
BRIAN BLANKENSHIPS COMMISSIONER
RE: RESOLUTION – AUTHORIZING USE OF OPIOID FUNDING
This matter has been tabled.
RE: CONTRACT-DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES EMPIRE SALVAGE & RECYCLING
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the contract to demolish 19 dilapidated structures in the amount of $78,740.37. Lori Mills, Dilapidated Structures Officer.
Company Name: EMPIRE SALVAGE & RECYCLING, INC.
Contact Person: DANNY LUSK
Mailing Address: P. O, BOX 300
City: BLUEFIELD
State: W
Zip: 24701
Email address: [email protected]
Company Phone: 304.425.6046
Contact Person’s Phone: 304.921.0538
Copies of the following items should be attached to the bid submission to prove validity and current status. Same Information needed if you have sub-contractors on the project.
WV Contractors License #: WV 010357
WV State Business License Issued by Sec of State #: 1037-5071
Name of Insurance Company: HUMPHREY, STUMP & HAYNIE INSURANCE AGENCY, INC.
Type of Insurance: EXCESS OVER GENL LIAB, WO-EMPL LIAB-EPP00215614
Amount of Coverage: $ 5,000,000
*Note: The bids will include the cost of required abatement for all asbestos containing material. We will not have an asbestos report on these structures – it will be up to the contractor to do that. Sealed bids will be received by Mercer County Dilapidated Structures Officer at 1500 West Main Street Princeton WV
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MERCER COUNTY BID SHEET
(To be used to submit bid, or a similar legible sheet may be substituted)
Quote a separate bid for each address for items
There is only one group in this package the overall low bid on the entire project will be awarded them all – unless some need to be cut to meet budget
| Address | Type | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Total Amount for Group #1 | $82,884.60 | |
| 100 Mercer Ave | building | $ 4,144.23 |
| 194 Old Smokeless Rd | trailer | $ 4,144.23 |
| 860 Arista Mt Rd | trailer | $ 4,144.23 |
| 157 Clover Bottom Rd | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 231 Blue Dove St | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 3485 Rocky Branch Rd | trailer | $ 4,144.23 |
| 1521 Athens Rd | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 3194 Hinton Ave | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 313 Pisgah Rd | double wide | $ 4,144.23 |
| 236 Golden Gate Rd | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 130 Guard Drive | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 212 Summers Street | trailer | $ 4,144 23 |
| 804 Fayette Street | trailer | $ 4.144.23 |
| 114 LJ Street | trailer | $ 4,144.23 |
| 4425 Coal Heritage Rd | house | $4,144 23 |
| 391 Windmill Hill Rd | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 489 Methodist Hill Rd | house | $ 4,144.23 |
| 858 Rock Rd | house | $ 4,144 23 |
| 858 Rock Rd | trailer | $ 4,144.23 |
| 103 Ramsey St Bramwell WV | house | $ 4,144.23 |
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RE: REGION ONE PLANNING & DEVELOPMENT-MCCOMAS WATERLINE EXTENSION – DRAWDOWN
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the McComas Waterline Extension Drawdown #1 in the amount of $137,011.00 and amendment #1 with an increase from $160,000 to $175,000. This covers engineering costs, Region 1 Administration cost and DEP permit. Ben Haring, Financial Assistant.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – DEPUTY SHERIFF’S ASSOCIATION
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from the Deputy Sheriff’s Association. Funding in the amount of $5,000 will be taken from Video/Lottery and used for shooting range upgrades.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – THE WADE CENTER
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from The Wade Center. Funding in the amount of $5,000 will be taken from Video/Lottery and used to purchase heaters for the mission quarters.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – CAMP CREEK STATE PARK FOUNDATION
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from the Camp Creek State Park Foundation. Funding in the amount of $5,000 will be taken from Hotel/Motel and used for the Fall Festival.
DISCUSSION:
- Department Reports:
- Keith Gunnoe – Emergency Management
- Steve Cline – Recycling Coordinator
- Mercer County Airport – Runway Extension Project
- Garden Oaks Channel Update – Executive Session – Courthouse Attorney Taylor Bohon Garden Oaks Attorney Anna Zeigler
- Matoaka Pavilion & Playground Update – Lori Mills – Solar lights installed, Pavilion will hopefully be up before winter
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ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Keep Mercer Clean Initiative – Take Five Campaign – Greg Puckett – Dumpsters will be available on September 20 at Pikeview High School and at the old Brushfork School. Citizens can also “Take Five” bags to help pick up litter in their community.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
- Greg Puckett – Jail Bill – County’s most recent jail bills have been $184,000, $182,000 and $192,000. Bills are increasing.
- Day Report – Not checking photo ID for screening?
- Josie Lester – Thanks to the County Commission for all of their support.
RE: EXECUTIVE SESSION
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to go into executive session. On motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to come out of executive session and go back into regular session. No votes were taken during the executive session.
RE: INVOICES, SETTLEMENTS, EXONERATIONS & APPROVED ESTATES
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the following Invoices, Settlement and Exonerations.
Pace, Travis – Ticket #263-01-Athens – Map 3 Parcel 82 & 83-2025 Real Estate – Lot 3 & Pt 4 Burch St Inc Plc 83-Pace lives here, Drivers license confirmed should be Class 2- Assessment is $63,720
Amount of Exoneration – $881.38
Range Contracting LLC – Ticket #303276-2023 Business Personal Property – 02 Beaver Pond – Not in Business July 1, 2022 – Assessment is $3,047
Amount of Exoneration – $92.94
Assurant Hme Inspec Serv LLC – Ticket #300289-2023 Business Personal Property – 02 Beaver Pond – Not in Business July 1, 2022. Assessment is $1,306
Amount of Exoneration – $51.26
Assurant Hme Inspec Serv LLC-Ticket #300309-2024 Business Personal Property – 02 Beaver Pond – Not in Business July 1, 2023. Assessment is $1,306
Amount of Exoneration – $28.90
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Range Contracting LLC – Ticket #303244-2024 Business Personal Property – 02 Beaver Pond – Not in Business July 1, 2023 – Assessment is $3,047
Amount of Exoneration – $67.44
Sizemore, Joshua G & Kate A-Ticket #7749-02 Beaver Pond Map 18 Parcel 141-2025 Real Estate -25.70 Ac & 15.11 Ac Hurricane Rdg Inc Map 19 Pcl 11.1 Mobile home had incorrect information. Assessment is $93,660 should be $85,660.
Amount of Exoneration – $90.66
J & J Holdings – Ticket #4464-02 Beaver Pond – Map 10 Parcel 42-2025 Real Estate -.57 Ac Lortons Lk DW – Home was over-assessed, according to appraisal – Assessment is $78,370 Should be $72,370
Amount of Exoneration – $135.98
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #4236-02 Beaver Pond – Map 6C Parcel 43n-2025 Real Estate-Lot 10 C Valley Rd – Property assessed for $90,240 class 3 – should be class 2.
Amount of Exoneration – $1,022.60
Sizemore, Donald & Brenda – Ticket #7740-02 Beaver Pond – Map 11 Parcel 162-2025 Real Estate – Pt 14 Ac Lortons Lk – Property is overvalued based on comparative sales – Assessment is $20,580 Should be $13,800.
Amount of Exoneration – $76.83
Miller, James – Ticket #14448-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 547 – 2025 Real Estate -Class 4 – S Pt 5 Sec 323 Hoge – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $720
Amount of Exoneration – $9.96
Miller, James – Ticket #14447-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 609-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 – Lts 5,6,7 & 8 Sec 330 Fifth St Should be in Class 2 Assessment is $1,440
Amount of Exoneration – $19.92
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Miller, James – Ticket #14444-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 556-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -Pt Lot 1 Sec 324 4th Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $7,140
Amount of Exoneration – $98.76
Miller, James – Ticket #14449-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 548-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -S Pt 5 Sec 323 Hoge – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $300
Amount of Exoneration – $4.15
Miller, James – Ticket #14445-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 559-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -Pt Lot 2 Sec 324 4th – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $6,780
Amount of Exoneration – $93.78
Miller, James – Ticket #14453-03 Bluefield – Map 25 Parcel 23-2025 Real Estate – Class 4. Pt Lot 2 Sec 330 Hoge – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $600
Amount of Exoneration – $8.30
Miller, James – Ticket #14451-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 2558-2025 Real Estate – Class 4-Lot 10 Sec 324 Pocahontas Ter Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $300
Amount of Exoneration – $4.15
Miller, James – Ticket #14450-03 Bluefield Map 17 Parcel 550-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -Lot 323 Thomas & N Rear 5th St 40×52.1 – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $300
Amount of Exoneration – $4.15
Miller, James – Ticket # 14452-03 Bluefield – Map 17 Parcel 608-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -Lot 1 Sec 330 5th Should be in Class 2 Assessment is $3,060
Amount of Exoneration – $42.33
High, Pamela – Ticket #13255-03 Bluefield – Map 26 Parcel 353-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 -Lot 21 Sec 916 Union – Should be in Class 2 – Assessment is $33,420
Amount of Exoneration – $462.27
Twelve Oaks Investments LLC-Ticket #16261-03 Bluefield – Map 26 Parcel 414.1-2025 Real Estate- $-150^{\prime}\times125^{\prime}$ Lts 8,9,10, Sec 925 Lewis Cont James & Hope Hicks – House value was over assessed – Assessment is $42,900 Should be $34,320
Amount of Exoneration – $118.68
Love, Perry Martin Jr – Ticket #19112-04 Bramwell – Map 1 Parcel 2.2-2025 Real Estate – Lot 6 Pcl 13 Blstn & Simmons – Property was overvalued – Re-Assessment lowered – Assessment is $31,560 Should be 22,000
Amount of Exoneration – $130.05
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Development Authority of Mercer County – Ticket #21242-05 East River – Map 17 Parcel 6 – 2025 Real Estate-Class 3-1 Ac Brush Ck – Should have been Class 2 & property assessed in wrong name corrected assessed value per letter – Assessment is $52,740 Should be $19,050
Amount of Exoneration – $979.42
Pitcher, Rachael I – Ticket #24428 – Map 8 Parcel 43-2025 Real Estate 05 East River – 14.07 Ac Black Lk – Homesite was left on incorrect pcl, already assessed on 11-40-73- Assessment is $27,180 Should be $7,740
Amount of Exoneration – $220.29
Sarver, Michael Adam – Ticket #32568-09 Plymouth – Map 29 Parcel 84-2024 Real Estate Lots 6 thru 9 Sec A (14.86 Ac) and 1.18 Ac Pctn Athens Rd Inc Pel 85.3 Pcl 85.3 should have received Farm Use – Combined ticket needs to be removed – Assessment is $362,520 Should be $344,340
Amount of Exoneration – $206.02
Sarver, Michael Adam – Ticket #32597-09 Plymouth – Map 29 Parcel 84-2025 Real Estate Lots 6 thru 9 Sec A (14.86 Ac) and 1.18 Ac Pctn Athens Rd Inc Pcl 85.3-Pcl 85.3 should have received Farm Use – Combined ticket needs to be removed – Assessment is $373,080 Should be $354,900
Amount of Exoneration – $206.02
Roske, Joseph & Angela – Ticket #32550-09 Plymouth – Map 33A Parcel 100 – 2025 Real Estate Lot 39 Sec A (0.29 Ac) Green Acres – Property assessed for $64,860 Class 2 – Should be assessed for 64,860 Class 2 with the $20,000 homestead exemption applied to the property.
Amount of Exoneration – $226.64
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35339-10 Princeton – Map 9 Parcel 81-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 – Lot 17 Sec 55 Heuser Ave – Property assessed for $36,660 class 4- should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $503.64
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35336-10 Princeton – Map 4 Parcel 188-2025 Real Estate -Class 4-Pt 4 Blk 148 Henry Ave – Property assessed for $9,240 class 4 should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $126.94
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35343-10 Princeton Map 15 Parcel 166.1 – 2025 Real Estate – Class 4-Pt Lot 17 Sec 8 5×60 etc. Property assessed for $300 class 4 – should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $4.12
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Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35344-10 Princeton Map 15 Parcel 166.2 – 2025 Real Estate Class 4-Pt Lot 17 Sec 8 Bee 10×60 Ft-Property assessed for $300 class 4 should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $4.12
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35337-10 Princeton Map 4 Parcel 209-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 – Lot 24 144 Henry Property assessed for $46,560 class 4 – should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $639.64
Hinkle, William Wesley – Ticket #35335-10 Princeton – Map 4 Parcel 187-2025 Real Estate – Class 4 – Lot 4 Sec 8 Henry – Property assessed for $58,440 class 4 – should be class 2
Amount of Exoneration – $802.85
Nicholson, Christopher – Ticket #1100001028-11 Rock-2023 Personal Property – Taxpayer paid on a 2018 Ram assessed for $24,435 did not own 7/1/22.
Amount of Exoneration $555.65
Hall, Dan – Ticket #40479-11 Rock-Map 37 Parcel 25-2024 Real Estate – 3.0 Acs S W.S. of Pri Rd 71 Wts Widemouth – Property should have been in Class 2 and didn’t receive correct amount of exoneration on last years – Assessment is $690
Amount of Exoneration – $15.64
Hall, Dan – Ticket #40481-11 Rock-Map 37 Parcel 60-2024 Real Estate – 5.77 Acs Widemouth – Property should have been in Class 2 and didn’t receive correct amount of exoneration on last years – Assessment is $1,200
Amount of Exoneration – $27.20
Brown, Charles W- Ticket #312456-11 Rock-PP Gas & Oil Account #8558341 – Deed was made for 2025 Tax Year and it was wrong to transfer to Charles W. Brown but he paid tax ticket for this Oil & Gas – Assessment is $2,791
Amount of Exoneration – $61.68
Hall, Dan W Jr – Ticket #40509-11 Rock – Map 37 Parcel 59-2025 Real Estate – 57.73 Widemouth – Correction for 2024 property should have been in Class 2 correct amount of exoneration on last years – Assessment is $23,940 Should be $11,970
Amount of Exoneration – $135.64
PETITION FOR CANCELLATION OF ERRONEOUS CHARGES
| Tax Year | District | Ticket # | Name of Taxpayer | Reason | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 02 Beaver Pond | 303783 | Style Nails | Double Assessed | $ 164.56 |
| 2025 | 02 Beaver Pond | 302957 | Paris Enterprises, LLC | Out of business | $ 577.08 |
| 2025 | 02 Beaver Pond | 2297 | Connection to the Connection | Exempt | $ 499.06 |
| 2025 | 02 Beaver Pond | 301104 | Marcella Crutchfield | Did not own MH 7/1/24 | $ 155.02 |
| 2025 | 02 Beaver Pond | 301610 | Grangers Towing & Recovery Inc | Priced Wrong | $ 353.56 |
| 2024 | 03 Bluefield | 300001052 | Brian Underwood | Error in supplement | $ 62.30 |
| 2025 | 03 Bluefield | 304882 | Hanastacia R Harris | Taxpayer gave wrong info | $ 218.68 |
| 2025 | 03 Bluefield | 13344 | Hotel Thelma Project Corp | Exempt | $ 632.40 |
| 2025 | 03 Bluefield | 14582 | Mountain Acres Properties, LLC | Exempt | $ 1,072.26 |
| 2025 | 03 Bluefield | 305717 | Vendor Services Inc | Out of Business | $ 36.08 |
| 2025 | 05 East River | 308592 | S&S Auto Sales | Error on ticket | $ 2,019.36 |
| 2024 | 09 Plymouth | 310135 | Christian Bailey | Did not own MH 7/1/23 | $ 578.76 |
| 2025 | 09 Plymouth | 309855 | Christian Bailey | Did not own MH 7/1/24 | $ 577.94 |
| 2025 | 10 Princeton | 311359 | Frontier Communications Corp. | Double assessed | $ 28.22 |
| 2025 | 11 Rock | 312820 | Dykota Hale | Taxpayer gave wrong info | $ 571.82 |
| 2025 | 11 Rock | 313460 | Myrtle Sexton | MH Burned | $ 116.28 |
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This day the following accounts were presented against the County of Mercer, and the Commission having examined each and all of them, doth allow payment from the different accounts, check numbers listed below:
CHECKS – AUGUST 2025
| GENERAL COUNTY | -Check #81563-81696 |
| COAL SEVERANCE | -Check #4618-4626 |
| DOG FUND | -Check #640 |
| JUSTICE FINES | -Check #5395 |
| EMERGENCY 911 | -Check #4305-4306 |
| HOME CONFINEMENT | -Check #2725-2727 |
| HOTEL MOTEL | -Check #5020-5039 |
| COURTHOUSE EQUIPMENT | -Check #978-981 |
| COURTHOUSE ANNEX | -Check #2120-2133 |
| VIDEO LOTTERY | -Check #1728-1733 |
| OPIOID SETTLEMENT | -Check #1027-1036 |
| MCDRC FEES | -Check #6410-6430 |
| ASSESSOR REAPPRAISAL | -Check #7174-7186 |
| FINANCIAL STABILIZATION | -Check #1085 |
| DEPUTY SHERIFF RETIREMENT | -Check #346 |
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It is ordered that this Commission be and is hereby adjourned until September 23, 2025.
Bill Archer
President
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION MEETING-TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2025 3:30 Ρ.Μ.
AGENDA:
- OPEN WITH PRAYER
- MOMENT OF SILENCE FOR CHARLIE KIRK
- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
- MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING
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PROCLAMATIONS/RESOLUTIONS
Proclamation-2025 Hunger Action Month
Mountaineer Food Bank
Becky Conrad
Proclamation-International Alpha Delta Kappa Month
Weena Aboulhosn, President
Proclamation-National 4-H Week
Sarah Brown, Mercer County 4-H Youth Development Agent
Resolution Authorizing Expenditures from Opioid Settlement Fund
Bill Archer, President
APPOINTMENTS/REAPPOINTMENTS:
Green Valley-Glenwood PSD
Appointment & Oath of Office
Gene Buckner, Board Member
CONTRACTS/AGREEMENTS:
Mercer County Clerk’s Office
Emergency Absentee Voting Policy
Verlin Moye, County Clerk
WV Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority-Grant Application
Restoration of Courthouse Exterior Doors
Vicky Reed, County Administrator
FUNDING REQUESTS:
RiffRaff Arts Collective, Inc.
2025 Season of Programming
Lori McKinney, Project Sponsor
Bluefield Arts & Revitalization Corp
Holiday Music & Entertainment-Granada
Julie Hurley
Bluefield State University
United Nations Day Celebration
Sudhakar R. Jamkhandi
Town of Bramwell
3rd Annual Halloween Spooktacular
Donald Thompson, Council Member
Green Valley Glenwood PSD
Proposal to Upgrade Water Service at Park
Scott Clark, General Manager, GVGPSD
Mercer County Communications 911
Countywide Paging System
Julie Lockhart, Director
Autoclear, LLC
Proposal for Two New X-Ray Scanners
Vicky Reed, County Administrator
DISCUSSION:
Opioid Settlement Fund-Update
Tish Chafin, Attorney
Mercer County Animal Shelter Update
Stacey Harman, Director
Brushfork Road – Zoning Questions
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Development Authority of Mercer County
Jordan Maynor, Director
Take Five Litter Campaign
Greg Puckett, Commissioner
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Kimberly McDonald, Resident
FORMAL HEARINGS DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES
Lori Mills, Dilapidated Structures Officer
| Address | Owner | Type | Map/Parcel |
|---|---|---|---|
| 113 Riverside Drive | Colonna Properties | House-Matoaka | Map 1 Parcel 59 |
| 410 Valley St | Billy Stables | House-Matoaka | Map 1 Parcel 122 |
| 3136 Maple Acres Rd | Kamal Dried/Grooms | House-Green Valley | Map 20 Parcel 85 |
| 273 Old Smokeless Rd | Lacy/Linda Daniels | House-Matoaka | Map 29H Parcel 35 |
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RE: WEST VIRGINIA:
At a Regular Session of the County Commission, held for the County of Mercer, at the Courthouse thereof, on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
Present:
Bill Archer, President
Greg Puckett, Commissioner
Brian Blankenship, Commissioner
RE: OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUND UPDATE
Former WV Senator Harry Truman Chafin presented the Mercer County Commission with a check in the amount of $341,436 from Opioid Lawsuit Funds.
RE: PROCLAMATION-2025 HUNGER ACTION MONTH – MOUNTAINEER FOOD BANK
This day on motion of Bill Archer, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Proclamation declaring September as the 2025 Hunger Action Month.
FEEDING AMERICA
Hunger Action Month
2024 Hunger Action Month
Proclamation Template
WHEREAS, hunger and poverty are issues of vital concern in West Virginia where 266,370 people face hunger and one in every five children do not know where their next meal will come from;
and
WHEREAS, everyone needs nutritious food to thrive, and in every community in America, people are working hard to provide for themselves and their families-yet in 2022, 44 million people-1 in 7- including more than 13 million children-1 in 5-faced food insecurity in the U.S. That includes 9,570- or 16.1 percent of people in Mercer County, with 24.5 percent of children that call Mercer County home food insecure;
and
WHEREAS, Mercer County is committed to taking steps to combat hunger in every part of our community and to provide additional resources that those in Mercer County need;
and
WHEREAS, Mercer County is committed to working with Mountaineer Food Bank, a member of the Feeding America nationwide network of food banks, in educating people about the role and importance of food banks in addressing hunger and raising awareness of the need to devote more resources and attention to hunger issues;
and
WHEREAS, many individuals in Mercer County rely on food provided by the members of Mountaineer Food Bank and its community partners annually;
and
WHEREAS, in 2022, the members of Mountaineer Food Bank distributed 1,644,851 pounds of food to 3,587 households in Mercer County through its network of food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other community organizations;
and
WHEREAS, the month of September has been designated “Hunger Action Month” in order to bring attention to food insecurity in our communities and to enlist the public in the movement to end hunger by taking action including volunteer shifts, social media shares, and donations to ensure every community, and everybody in it, has the food they need to thrive.
WHEREAS, food banks across the country, including Mountaineer Food Bank-will host numerous events throughout the month of September to bring awareness and help end hunger in their local community;
NOW, THERFORE, We, the Mercer County Commission do hereby recognize September 2025, as HUNGER ACTION MONTH in Mercer County, West Virginia and we call this observance to the attention of our citizens.
SIGNATURE: Bill Ash
DATE: 9/23/25
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RE: PROCLAMATION – INTERNATIONAL ALPHA DELTA ΚΑΡΡΑ ΜΟΝΤΗ
This day on motion of Bill Archer, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Proclamation declaring October as International Alpha Delta Kappa Month.
Proclamation for International Alpha Delta Kappa Month
Whereas women in education constitute a great portion of the nation’s workforce and are constantly striving to serve their communities and nation in educational, cultural and charitable programs leading to harmony, happiness and peace among all people and
Whereas goals of Alpha Delta Kappa International Honorary Organization for Women Educators are:
To honor outstanding women educators.
To strengthen the education profession through commitment to diversity and inclusion practices that respect and value each person for their unique qualities.
To nurture relationships and networking opportunities.
To enrich personal and professional development.
To support altruistic projects, grants and scholarships with time and resources.
To embrace cultural differences and make an impact through world understanding.
Now, therefore, I, Bill Anh of the Mercer County Commission. by the authority vested in me, do hereby proclaim the month of October as International Alpha Delta Kappa Month
Our Mission: Empower women educators to advance inclusion, educational excellence, altruism and world understanding.
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RE: PROCLAMATION – NATIONAL 4-H WEEK – MERCER COUNTY 4-H
This day on motion of Bill Archer, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Proclamation declaring the week of October 5th – 11th as National 4-H Week. Sarah Brown, Mercer County 4-H Youth Development Agent.
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Mercer County Commission
1501 West Main, Suite 210
Princeton, West Virginia 24740
Phone: (304) 487-8306
Fax: (304) 487-8370
Email: [email protected]
VICKY REED
County Administrator
BILL ARCHER
1322 Woodrow Avenue
BLUEFIELD, WV 24701
BRIAN BLANKENSHIP
882 Oakland Drive
PRINCETON, WV 24739
GREG PUCKETT
334 Pine Acres Way
PRINCETON, WV 24739
PROCLAMATION
2025 ΝΑΤΙΟNAL 4-H WEEK
MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA
WHEREAS, 4-H youth across the nation continue to step up as leaders, tackling challenges in their communities and shaping brighter futures. This program, which focuses on developing the whole child-head, heart, hands, and health-empowers young West Virginians to gain knowledge, strengthen life skills, and build positive attitudes that prepare them to be self-directed, productive, and engaged members of society;
and
WHEREAS, 4-H remains the largest youth development program in the country, engaging more than six million youth nationwide. In West Virginia, nearly one in every five young people participate in 4-H, while here in Mercer County, over 1,000 youth were reached last year through schools, clubs, camps, and fairs. Nearly 200 adult volunteers dedicated their time and energy to supporting the growth and success of these youth; and
WHEREAS, through West Virginia University Extension, 4-H offers hands-on learning opportunities in STEM, healthy living, workforce readiness, agriculture, and leadership-ensuring youth gain the experiences and skills needed for lifelong success;
and
WHEREAS, for more than a century, 4-H has connected young people and communities with the innovative research and resources of America’s 106 land-grant universities and colleges, building a strong foundation for learning and leadership;
and
NOW, THEREFORE, WE, THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MERCER COUNTY, WEST VIRGINIA, do hereby proclaim the week of October 5, 2025 through October 11, 2025 as: National 4-H Week in Mercer County. We encourage all citizens to recognize and celebrate the impact of 4-H programs, to support our youth as they explore their interests and develop their potential, and to acknowledge the unique partnership between our county and West Virginia University Extension that makes this work possible.
DATED THIS 23RD DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025.
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION:
BILL ARCHER, PRESIDENT
GREG PUCKETT, COMMISSIONER
BRIAN BLANKENSHIP, COMMISSIONER
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RE: RESOLUTION – AUTHORIZING EXPENDITURES FROM OPIOID SETTLEMENT FUND
This day on motion of Bill Archer, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Resolution Authorizing Expenditures from Opioid Settlement Funds. The Mercer County Commission authorizes the use of no more than $44,602 to expand the E-911 Paging Infrastructure.
Mercer County Commission
1501 West Main, Suite 210
Princeton, West Virginia 24740
Phone: (304) 487-8306
Fax: (304) 487-8370
Email: [email protected]
VICKY REED
County Administrator
BILL ARCHER
1322 Woodrow Avenue
BLUEFIELD, WV 24701
BRIAN BLANKENSHIP
882 Oakland Drive
PRINCETON, WV 24739
GREG PUCKETT
334 Pine Acres Way
PRINCETON, WV 24739
RESOLUTION
WHEREAS, the Mercer County Commission desires to utilize Opioid Settlement Funds (as authorized in Exhibit A. Schedule B, Section M of the West Virginia First Memorandum of Understanding) to expand the paging infrastructure in areas of Mercer County most affected by substance use and overdose related incidents, and;
WHEREAS, the Mercer County Commission recognizes and finds the need to support the Mercer County E-911 Communications Center in their efforts to enhance emergency response capabilities in areas most affected by substance abuse.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mercer County Commission hereby authorizes the use of an amount not to exceed $44,602 to expand the E-911 Paging Infrastructure, an initiative that directly enhances emergency response capabilities in areas most affected by substance use and overdose-related incidents.
DATED THIS 23RD DAY OF SEPTEMBER, 2025.
MERCER COUNTY COMMISSION:
BILL ARCHER, PRESIDENT
GREG PUCKETT, COMMISSIONER
BRIAN BLANKENSHIP, COMMISSIONER
RE: APPOINTMENT & OATH OF OFFICE – GENE BUCKNER – GREEN VALLEY-GLENWOOD PSD
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Appointment and Oath of Office for Gene Buckner to serve as a Board Member for the Green Valley – Glenwood PSD.
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RE: MERCER COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE – EMERGENCY ABSENTEE VOTING POLICY
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the Emergency Absentee Voting Policy submitted by Verlin T. Moye, County Clerk.
RE: GRANT APPLICATION – WV COURTHOUSE FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT AUTHORITY
This day on motion of Bill Archer, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the WV Courthouse Facilities Improvement Authority Grant Application. Vicky Reed, County Administrator.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – RIFFRAFF ARTS COLLECTIVE, INC.
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from RiffRaff Arts Collective, Inc. Funding in the amount of $5,000 will be taken from Hotel/Motel and used for the 2025 Season of Programming. Lori McKinney, Project Sponsor.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – BLUEFIELD ARTS & REVITALIZATION CORP
This day on motion of Greg Puckett, Commissioner, seconded by Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from Bluefield Arts & Revitalization Corp. Funding in the amount of $5,000 will be taken from Hotel/Motel Reserve and used for Holiday Music & Entertainment – Granada. Julie Hurley.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – BLUEFIELD STATE UNIVERSITY
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from Bluefield State University. Funding in the amount of $4,000 will be taken from Video/Lottery and used for the United Nations Day Celebration. Sudhakar R. Jamkhandi.
287
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – TOWN OF BRAMWELL
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from the Town of Bramwell. Funding in the amount of $1,000 will be taken from Video/Lottery and used for the 3rd Annual Halloween Spooktacular.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – GLENWOOD RECREATION PARK – GREEN VALLEY GLENWOOD PSD
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request from the Green Valley Glenwood PSD to upgrade water service at the park. The current bill is $26.78 minimum a month for a 3/4″ water meter (2,000 gallons) and $22.68 minimum for sewer (2,000 gallons). Upgrading to a 2″ water meter will be $214.24 minimum (31,826 gallons) and sewer $22.68 minimum (2,000 gallons). Minimum bill total will be $236.92 monthly for a 2″ water meter. One-time water tap fee of $300.00.
RE: FUNDING REQUEST – AUTOCLEAR, LLC-X-RAY SCANNERS
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to approve the funding request to Autoclear, LLC for two new x-ray scanners for the Courthouse and the Annex. Funding in the amount of $43,150 will be taken from Budget Stabilization.
DISCUSSION:
- Mercer County Animal Shelter – save rate of 93%, needing concrete for play yard ($3,000) already have a pledge of $1,000
- Brushfork Road – Zoning questions
- Development Authority of Mercer County
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ANNOUNCEMENTS:
- Take Five Litter Campaign – six dumpsters were filled on September 20 (free of charge)
FORMAL HEARINGS DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES
RE: DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES – COLONNA PROPERTIES-113 RIVERSIDE DRIVE
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to issue a 30-day continuance for the house owned by Colonna Properties located at 113 Riverside Drive, Map 1 Parcel 59.
RE: DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES – BILLY STABLES 410 VALLEY STREET
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to issue a 60-day continuance for the house owned by Billy Stables located at 410 Valley St, Map 1 Parcel 122.
RE: DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES – KAMAL DREID AND KALLIE GROOMS – 3136 MAPLE ACRES ROAD
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to issue a standard order of demolition for the house owned by Kamal Dried/Grooms located at 3136 Maple Acres Road, Map 20 Parcel 85.
RE: DILAPIDATED STRUCTURES – LACY/LINDA DANIELS -273 OLD SMOKELESS ROAD
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to issue a standard order of demolition for the house owned by Lacy/Linda Daniels located at 273 Old Smokeless Rd, Map 29H Parcel 35.
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RE: EXECUTIVE SESSION
This day on motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to go into executive session. On motion of Brian Blankenship, Commissioner, seconded by Greg Puckett, Commissioner, the Commission voted unanimously to come out of executive session and go back into regular session. No votes were taken during the executive session.
It is ordered that this Commission be and is hereby adjourned until October 14, 2025.
Bill Archer
President