Candidates for Mayor in attendance: James Friend, Ralph Washington and Kortni Sandridge.
Candidates for City Council in Attendance: Theresa Knight, Jim Musgrave and James Brannam.
The evening began with the introduction of all Candidates with a brief statement from each one. There were a total 13 people in the audience. The mediator gave the ground rule explaining that this is a Meet and Greet with a few questions provided prior to the evening for the candidates as well as any questions from those in attendance. She went on to explain that it was in no way a debate but an opportunity for questions to be asked and opportunity for each candidate to respond.
Items that were discussed: ordinances that are not being addressed, such as grass clippings being blown into the streets; water problems in West Union, the antiquated water lines, and the increase of inmates at the regional jail causing increased water usage; the increase of abandoned and run-down buildings in the city limits and the hiring of a new building inspector; drug problems; ways to bring businesses into our town to generate more income; and the hiring of two additional police officers for the town.
Question #1: In 2014, the County Commission gave the town of West Union $150,000 to improve the water lines and increase access to water and work with PSD in West Union and surrounding areas. The City Attorney and the County Commission Attorney are working on this as stated by Mr. Friend. The increase of inmates at the regional jail has put a strain on our water system. He has given permission for the engineers to discuss this.
Question #2: With an additional 1-cent increase in taxes, would the town consider hiring a grant writer that would allow us to apply for grants to assist in the funding for upgrading water lines as well as other projects? All candidates were against the B&O taxes.
Question #3: How are you planning to entice businesses to the town?
Question #4: How many persons are present when votes are counted? It was stated that the election guidelines are being followed as set by the State of WV.
There was a discussion regarding the City Ordinances and lack of availability of this information to the City Council.
This event was main streamed and shared by the Chamber of Commerce.