By Jennifer Britt
Eric Wamsley, President of Tucker County Youth Basketball, was presented with a $1,000 check from the City of Parsons. The check was a donation to support the TCYB in efforts to renovate the Parsons Annex Gymnasium. One hundred eighty youth from the grades K-8 currently uses the gym.
The donation will go towards replacing the unsafe and outdated bleachers and new side rims to enhance the ability to maximize practice experience for each child. The current side rims are not adjustable and the original rims are from the 1970’s.
In his letter to the city requesting a donation, Wamsley stated the cost of new bleachers and side rims to be approximately $45,000. TCYB has set aside funds and will be contributing their own $15,000 for the project. Wamsley also stated in his letter: “The goal of TCYB is to make a difference in the lives of Tucker County’s youth by providing teamwork, character, courage, and loyalty through participation in youth sports.” Mayor Judy while presenting the check said: “If I could give you the whole amount needed I would.” Major Judy thanked Wamsley for a job well done and for all he did for the youth in the community.
Other business of the City Council meeting: the building known as The Paint Store will be demolished in the upcoming months. The Paint Store is Tucker County’s oldest building and was built in 1891. The building’s owners and Woodlands Group have entered an extended agreement to demolish the old building and build a new structure. The new building will house commercial offices and four or five apartments. Those recently removed from the building may have the chance to move back in once the construction is completed.
The cost of the demolition would be roughly $45,000. Woodland would secure a loan with the state through the demolish grant. Emily Wilson-Hauger and David Clark of the Woodlands Group were present at the city council meeting requesting an acquisition of funds from the city for $26,500. The funds would be repaid to the city through a two-year program. Depending upon the approval of state funds will determine when the building will come down.
Daniel Flood of Highland Trail Foundation was present to discuss the Allegheny Highland Trail Kiosk Refresh project that runs through Parsons. Flood requested a funding of $250 to match the grant funding for the sign in Parsons. The new and updated signs will be four-foot by four-foot aluminum with full color and a trail map. Each town along the AHT will receive a new sign at the kiosk locations. Flood is hoping to get signs up in two to three months.
The next City Council meeting will be at 6 p.m., March 15, 2022 at the Charles W. “Bill” Rosenau Municipal Building. If you would like an item placed on the agenda contact the Parsons Business Office at 304-478–2311.