Neighborhood Issues in Huntington and Cabell County

Citizens Need Kept Abreast of City's Infrastructure Planning

2010-02-09T12:27:00.006-05:00

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a combined sewer (CS) is a type of sewer system that collects sanitary sewage and storm water runoff in a single pipe system. Combined sewers can cause serious water pollution problems due to combined sewer overflows (CSO), which result from large variations in flow between dry and wet weather. This type of sewer design (CS) is no longer used, but many older cities, including Huntington (WV) continue to operate combined sewers.

The EPA reports that about 772 communities in the United States have combined sewer systems, serving about 40 million people. CSO discharges during heavy storms can cause serious water polution problems in these communities. Pollutants from CSO discharges can include bacteria and other pathogens, toxic chemicals, and debris. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a policy in 1994 requiring municipalities to make improvements to reduce or eliminate CSO-related pollution problems. In 2000, Congress amended the Clean Water Act to require the municipalities to comply with the EPA policy.

Some U.S. cities have undertaken sewer separation projects—building a second piping system for all or part of the community. In many of these projects, cities have been able to separate only portions of their combined systems. High costs or physical limitations may preclude building a completely separate system. What are the City of Huntington’s plans to mitigate this infrastructure issue? If we had funding, what course of action is physically possible? Are there written plans for the best possible long-term solution? Is there a current cost estimate for implementation? An informed citizenry will support our governmental leaders, if kept abreast of on-going efforts in planning to rebuild our infrastructure. If additional stimulus money, or other federal funds, become available in the future, will we be ready to build?

(Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say. If you wish, after clicking on "Post Comments", click on the available "Anonymous" button, which is provided for your privacy.)

Voluntary Drop Off Recycling Program Can Work In Cabell County

2010-02-08T11:55:00.008-05:00

Since 1995, the Berkeley County (WV) Solid Waste Authority has been striving to provide a convenient, efficient and cost effective recycling program for the residents of Berkeley County. Their dedication to the environment has resulted in the development of one of the most comprehensive voluntary drop off and curbside recycling programs in the region.

Why Recycle?

If all morning newspapers read in the United States were recycled, 41,000 trees would be saved daily and 6 million tons of waste would never end up in landfills.
Recycling an aluminum can saves enough energy to run a television set for three hours.
Each year, steel recycling saves the energy equivalent to electrically power about one-fifth of U.S. households for one year.
The aluminum beverage can returns to the grocer's shelf in as little as 60 days after collection.
Americans buy over 85 million tons of paper per year-that's about 700 pounds per person.
Most aluminum recovered is used to manufacture new cans.

Citizens of Cabell County must develop the will to voluntarily recycle, and they must support the efforts of the Cabell County Solid Waste Authority as it addresses the issues of future solid waste disposal in our county.

The future environmental and economic sustainability of our area is dependent upon our resolve to reduce solid waste, while reusing as much as possible through a convenient, efficient and cost effective recycling system, which must be an important element of our solid waste disposal planning.

To see a copy of the Berkeley County voluntary recycling ordinance, click on this link:

http://www.berkeleycountycomm.org/docs/ordinances/recycle.pdf

Classic “Public Good” Requires An Informed Citizenry

2010-02-03T14:41:00.009-05:00

Cicero said, “The welfare of the people is the highest law.” He was speaking of the classic “public good”. It is what the public needs and wants. The radical approach in preparing and putting plans into action is to keep the public fully informed, including the systematic implementation of plans for resolving public issues.

Huntington’s citizens are woefully uninformed about these issues:

· The court-ordered closing of the Dietz Hollow landfill
· Plans for a solid waste transfer station and solid waste disposal
· The separation of the currently combined storm water/sanitary sewer system

"Journalism is a classic 'public good'", the January 25, 2010, issue of the magazine The Nation declared in an article. In the magazine's spirit, we encourage our local investigative journalists to review the existing records/historical background and report the status of these infrastructure needs to the citizens of our city. We call for this, as we consider the possibility that there are no written plans, because of the oft heard, “We don’t have the money.”

Unless our government leaders have plans to acquire construction documents and cost projections, they will not be in a position to proceed if, and when, another round of stimulus funds became available.

What is going on? America’s oldest understandings: that a free people can govern themselves only if they have access to independent information about the issues of the day and the excesses of the powerful, and that it is the duty of government to guarantee the free distribution of its inner-workings and planning to fulfill its duty of accountability.

Journalists have the power of inquiry and a bully-pulpit. The people of Huntington deserve a full disclosure of the City of Huntington’s plans to resolve these particular infrastructure issues. If the City of Huntington does not continuously disseminate full details of planning and progress, journalists are honor-bound to acquire the information and report it to their readers.

(Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say. If you wish, after clicking on "Post Comments", click on the available "Anonymous" button, which is provided for your privacy.)

County-wide Smoking Ban Will Require Attention to Unintended Consequences

2010-01-28T10:59:00.006-05:00

Unintended consequences will continue, as the Cabell-Huntington Board of Health implements its new proposal to ban smoking in bars and gambling parlors in Cabell County. As with the earlier ban on smoking inside of designated businesses, and other public places, many smokers will be required to exit the bars and gambling parlors to smoke each time they wish to light up.

Since initially enacted, the original health department rule requires all smokers, both customers and employees of affected businesses, to smoke outdoors. The intent was for smokers to deposit their unspent cigarette butts in a disposal unit. Some businesses have chosen to provide cigarette disposal containers for the convenience of smokers; many have not. The Downtown Huntington Rotary Club has been providing the containers as a public service. Some smokers have chosen to use the disposal containers; many have not.

What have been the unintended consequences? The sight of cigarette butts lying all over public areas, even with disposal units present and available, mars Huntington and Cabell County retail shopping areas! The misplaced butts are obvious in the cracks of sidewalks and in adjacent landscaping and parking areas. As we have reported over the last four years, cigarette waste is the most littered item in Huntington and Cabell County. The just expanded smoking ban regulations will require thoughtful action on the part of the City of Huntington City Council and the Cabell County Commission.

We suggest legislation by both bodies to require all business owners to provide cigarette disposal units at each entrance to their businesses and the further responsibility to keep the area around the units and the sidewalks and grounds along the front of their businesses clean and clear of cigarette waste and other litter. Approved exterior smoking areas should be required and properly equipped to accommodate employees who wish to smoke. Proper penalties for non-compliance must be a part of the proposed ordinances.

Now, for the smokers who refuse to dispose of their cigarette butts properly, there must be a consequence for their unlawful actions. The city and county governments must assume responsibility for enforcing the current state and city laws related to littering. Other cities successfully maintain clean and attractive streets and highways. Our local government leaders must have the will to place the required monitoring system in place to neutralize the unintended consequences of the ever-expanding ban on public cigarette smoking and one of its obviously inherent negatives - improper disposal of its waste.

(Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say.)

Solid Waste Transfer Station A Critical Need For Huntington

2010-01-26T13:26:00.004-05:00

Transfer stations can be an economical solution to reduce the cost of transportation of collected solid waste to area landfill operations. The City of Huntington utilizes a remote landfill in the state of Kentucky. Any city that wishes to centralize disposal and reduce truck traffic should seriously consider a transfer station. Transfer stations can also help to improve the efficiencies of any landfill by reducing traffic and lowering upkeep. The City of Huntington would be well-advised to add recycling operations to any future transfer station being considered.

It is our understanding that the City of Huntington has approved a consultants contract for evaluating the issue of solid waste removal and/or recycling. This is encouraging, as the issue of solid waste disposal and its inherent recycling benefits is a critical need, if we are to sustain the improvements being accomplished in the renewal efforts of our city.

What do you think?

(Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say.)

City Government Must Have The Will To Enforce Litter and Illegal Dumping Ordinances

2010-01-21T10:20:00.006-05:00

Although Huntington's citizens are more focused on the issue of street litter in their neighborhoods and we have made substantial gains in reducing litter during the last four years, our city continues to be littered. Why?

Research points to several factors that may impact on littering behavior: lack of knowledge of the environmental effects of littering; litter has already accumulated; the more litter present the more people are inclined to litte; lack of social pressure to do the right thing; absence of penalties, or consistent enforcement; the quantity, placement and appearance of disposal containers at, or nearby, for easy disposal of throw-away items; people who litter often feel no sense of pride in the areas they are littering; they do not view the item as litter. (That is often the case with cigarette butts and packaging.)

Huntington needs a new comprehensive plan for minimizing street litter and illegal dumping. Citizens should encourage our city government to allocate the necessary resources to provide for litter receptacles and cigarette butt disposal equipment on every street corner in each of Huntington's thirteen identified neighborhoods. And why not require each business to have a clean and well-maintained cigarette butt disposal unit at each entrance of their establishment, since smoking is not allowed inside most places. The members of Huntington City Council and the city administration must ensure that this newly located equipment is serviced on a daily basis by a designated crew of city workers; or, how about a tax credit for citizens who pledge to keep disposal units clean and well-maintained on their own block?

Finally, the council and administration must implement the necessary enforcement operational procedures needed to effectively manage the existing city ordinances, which cover littering violations and the improper disposal of household trash and large household items, whether the occupants are an owner - or tenant. The enforcement should be announced and begun on a publicly announced date certain! The ordinances are in place; enforcement must begin!

Only our leaders can initiate the required actions - and Huntington residents need to encourage their council members to focus on this issue and develop a plan and seek funding for resolving this basic "image" issue! We must all commit to taking personal responsibility for getting our city cleaned up and for keeping it clean!

What do you think?

(Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say.)

Citizens Voice Concerns About Cabell Board of Education Proposal

2010-01-17T10:11:00.005-05:00

Citizens are voicing their concerns about the Cabell County Board of Education's proposal to combine students from Enslow Elementary School with Beverly Hills Elementary students for the next school year by sending the Enslow students to the Beverly Hills school. A message sent to us today said (edited):

"On January 20th, 2010, beginning at 5:30 pm in the Cabell County Board of Education (Administrative Office on 5th Avenue in Huntington), a hearing will convene about moving all the Enslow students to Beverly Hills for the next school year. This is not the best move for the students. This move is to show the public that the proposed middle school will be built on a controversial site, whether the public likes it, or not. When will they start caring about the children."

What is your take on the controversy over the proposed site of the planned construction of a new middle school? (Click on "Post Comments" at the end of this posting, and have your say.)

City of Huntington Zoning Ordinance Modification Should Consider Rights of Renters

2010-01-14T14:34:00.006-05:00

The Huntington City Council is in the process of modifying a zoning ordinance that will require property owners to be notified of any zoning change that would allow a building project to be constructed that might affect their property's value. However, the proposed ordinance may not require the renters of properties to receive the same notification.

From where we sit, it only seems reasonable that renters receive the same notification, as zoning changes may well affect their "home" as well. Council should ensure that both property owners and their tenants are properly notified of zoning changes for construction projects which are being planned within the ordinance's prescribed distance from surrounding properties.

Adopt YOUR Block to Offer Litter Sticks to Day Report Crews

2010-01-04T10:34:00.004-05:00

The Herald Dispatch reported this morning that the West Regional Day Report Center (WRDRC) in Cabell County is allowing non violent offenders in the county an opportunity to participate in alternative sentencing from jail time that includes community service by picking up litter and trash from areas in need of cleaning.

Christopher Dean, the director of the center noted that citizens can go to the center's website, which is http://www.wrdrc.com/, and place requests for cleanups at specific locations. He stated that the sight is "a work in progress", but anyone can go to the sight, hit the icon for "request" and let them know of areas that need serviced.

The Adopt YOUR Block - Be a Litter-Gitter volunteer program will be telephoning the center today to offer litter-gitter sticks for the crews to use to pick up litter, including cigarette butts. The sticks will allow the crews to pick up litter in a more efficient and timely manner.

The Adopt YOUR Block - Be a Litter-Gitter group consists of 2021 citizen volunteers who have pledged to keep the block on which they live free of litter, including cigarette waste. The group continues to grow in numbers.

We wish to commend the courts and the RDRC for arranging this progressive approach to alternative sentencing. Their litter-abatement effort will further local efforts to present a clean and green image for all of Cabell County.

Have a street or area in your neighborhood that needs attention? Go to http://www.wrdrc.com/ and place your request for litter cleanup. (currently the site is under construction; check back later, if it is not functioning correctly.

Don't forget to thank them!

Organizational Meeting for Guyandotte's 200th Birthday Celebration - 1810-2010

2009-12-30T18:20:00.003-05:00

PRESS RELEASE

12/30/2009

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The community of Guyandotte, founded in 1810 will be celebrating 200 years during the fourth of July weekend in 2010. Any organization or church that would like to participate or help plan the bicentinnal are invited to attend an organizational meeting on Jan 3, 2010 at VFW 9738 located on Main St. in Guyandotte, the meeting will begin at 3 p.m. For more information contact Rick Simmons at 304 525-1248.

Can We Talk?

2009-12-29T18:14:00.003-05:00

When something bugs me, I want to talk to someone about it!

So, if you observe something that needs fixed in your neighborhood, I invite you to visit here to talk about it, and if what you see is something you think is good in your neighborhood - like someone who is exhibiting good citizenship, let's hear about it! God only knows, we don't hear enough about the good that occurs in our communities.

As a neighborhood advocate, I am meeting folks in every Huntington neighborhood. Everyone has an opinion about city and county services, our City of Huntington and Cabell County governments' response to issues - or lack thereof - and the battles we face with litter, sub-standard housing, deteriorating infrastructure,drugs, crime and street violence.

My personal commitment to our neighborhoods is to act as a lightning rod to draw attention to neighborhood problems, while attempting to get a positive response from the agencies who are charged with the responsible for combating and resolving these issues.

Remember the quotation by Cicero? He said, "The welfare of the people is the highest law."

Remember the scene in the movie "Network" where the man rushes to his window, throws it open and screams to the world, "I'm mad as hell, and I'm not going to take it anymore"? Well, if you are upset about an issue in your neighborhood, you can yell about it here on this blog page, "Can We Talk?" Maybe another person reading your comments will be able to suggest a solution, or can direct you to a public official who can resolve the issue. Certainly, I will attempt to help. CAN WE TALK? Feel free to call me at 304-523-7902.

(I originally posted this entry on September 3, 2006. Things are improving dramatically in Huntington and Cabell County, and we as citizens can help our city and county governments by acting as their "eyes and ears" to identify neighborhood situations that need attention. Please call me to discuss any issue.)

Citizens Paying Their Share of "Cosmic Rent"

2009-12-09T11:55:00.006-05:00

In our post which appears just below this one, we discussed the idea of "Cosmic Rent", meaning that every person should do some good for the right to live on a planet that furnishes air, water and abundant natural resources (see "Cosmic Rent - Should We Pay It?)

Our friend, Mary Clayborne, takes that concept seriously, as she continues to help those in need. We just received this personal email from her this morning. In it, she mentions other citizens who are doing their part to give back to others in our community who have urgent needs. Here is her email:

Dear Richard, I sent out an email several days ago looking for clothing for a 6-year-old child that stays in the hospital as much as he stays at home. This is a working family with very little.

The mother came to me last week and asked for help. I told her to give me a minute (a "minute" to me is a couple of days to work something out and find what the family needs). I knew something would happen for this child in the way of clothing. I just didn't know what?

I got two calls yesterday. One from Mrs. Pat Lipscomb and one from the Wards at Classic Construction. At 6:30 pm yesterday, my daughter and I delivered a brand new coat and four new outfits from Mrs. Lipscomb, and a huge bag of beautiful clothing for this little fellow from Gina and Gary Ward.

Please tell Carter "Cosmic Rent" worked out for little Dylan Tate. Dylan is sick a lot. He can't be outside without warm clothing for a long period of time. He can run and play, like most kids; the difference is he lives with an inhaler 24-hours a day. He has oxygen in his home, for the times when the inhaler is not enough, and lives right behind Cabell Huntington Hospital so that they can go there when his throat closes up.

Just wanted to share another story with you of the goodness in people. I truly believe goodness is there. People have forgotten how good it feels to give and help each other.

As Always, Mary

"Cosmic" Rent - Should We Pay It?

2009-11-23T11:35:00.005-05:00

We were driving back from Lewisburg, WV, on October 6, 2006, when my wife, Carter Seaton, suddenly asked, “Have you ever heard the term “cosmic" rent? I immediately retorted (like I knew what I was talking about), “Yes, that is the point at which your home mortgage or monthly rental payment, surpasses your ability to pay up.” After a very short chuckle, she talked about the concept that “cosmic” rent is that which each human being should contribute back in service to mankind for the right and privilege of living in a world that provides air, water, food, shelter, etc.

I commented that very few people have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully in a way that can positively affect the well-being of the totality of the Earth and the larger Universe. At that, Carter reminded me that each human being can pay their “cosmic” rent merely by making a commitment to participate in the betterment of the social units - community, neighborhood, city - in which they spend their lives.

A frequent prediction one hears at the moment is that America is gradually slipping into an economic and political decline, while China and India are rapidly growing in power and wealth. But perhaps the most potent predictor of the future of America is we. We are constantly creating the world by what we think and do, and we are all faced with the questions, What can I do? How do I choose the right direction? What effect will my small personal life have on this huge moving mass of humanity?

What we can be certain of is that change will occur, and we are involved in it in one way, or another, right now. Well, you are part of "the mass". You are one of the runners in the human race. What you do and think touches the lives of those around you. Those around you influence and play parts in the lives of others. In this way we all touch each other.

My wife reminded me that all of the volunteers in Huntington's Adopt Your Block - Be a Litter-Gitter program (Jay Bowen and I were the first community volunteers in early 2006; as of November 23, 2009, we have over 2,000 volunteers) are paying some of their “cosmic” rent by working to rid their own neighborhood of litter and trash. I had not thought about it that way – it makes me want to get out their right now and check my own block for any blowing litter!

If you want a meaningful and noble way to pay your “cosmic” rent, post your opinion about this idea on this blog. Then, take the time to email me at richardcobbsr@comcast.com , and I will contact you and deliver you a "litter-gitter" stick (which allows you to pick up litter without bending over or touching it) that will allow you to easily pay "cosmic" rent to your own neighborhood by helping to keep the block in which you live free of litter.

It’s that simple to pay some of your “cosmic" rent. There is no cost to you for the litter pick-up equipment, and you will have the knowledge that you are "taking", but that you are "giving" back for the blessings of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Together, we can accomplish whatever we can imagine! Do YOUR part!

(I originally posted this entry on this blog on October 9, 2006. Think about what has happened with our world since then. Also, think about the gains we have made in improving the quality of life in our hometown. We are moving forward, and we all need to be a part of building a "creative" place in which to raise a family, work, study and play.)

Huntington's Black Community and Chief of Police Will Resolve Profiling Issues

2009-11-20T10:51:00.007-05:00

The Cabell-Huntington Chapter of the NAACP is claiming members of the African-American community have been the victims of illegal racial profiling. The NAACP and the Huntington Black Pastors' Ministerial Association say they are not indicting the Huntington Police Department, but they do say there is a need to temper the actions of law enforcement officers in the African-American community. Huntington Police Chief Skip Holbrook said he was surprised by the claim.

Holbrook is an excellent law enforcement administrator, and the members of the NAACP executive committee and members of the association of black pastors are all highly respected members of our community. We are confident that the chief and members of the NAACP and the Black Ministerial association will meet immediately to review the claims of racial profiling. If profiling is occurring, we have confidence in Chief Holbrook's commitment to fair and equal law enforcement, and he will investigate the issue and resolve it - in a timely manner. Holbrook has said he is willing to meet with individuals about allegations of racial profiling, and he takes pride in the Huntington Police Department's goal "to provide organizational transparency."

We are confident the groups will participate in prompt, frank and open discussions to ensure the continuing cooperation between the citizens of our various neighborhoods and the Huntington Police Department.

Citizens of Huntington have the desire for a safe and secure hometown for each and every person. Let the talks begin!

Huntington Street Division Responsive in Picking Up Bagged Leaves

2009-11-06T09:42:00.005-05:00

After blowing all of the leaves off of the street in front of our residence and bagging them, we called the City of Huntington Street Division and advised them that we had about twenty bags of leaves we removed from the street and the city's property. The nice lady on the phone took my name, address and phone number and advised me that she would have them picked up. They were picked up within 48-hours.

If each property owner will bag all fallen leaves on your property and place them at the curb, the street division will pick them up, but you must call them to schedule the pick-up. Do not merely rake them into the gutter, as this practice is harmful to our combined sanitation/storm water sewer system and, also, reduces the number of on-street parking spaces.

We encourage city residents to assist our city government by raking/blowing and bagging all fallen leaves on your property and in the street at the perimeter of your property. The city does not currently have enough equipment, or manpower, to remove fallen leaves throughout all of our neighborhoods. However, they have announced they will pick up bagged leaves, if requested.

So, bag them. Then, call the City of Huntington Street Division at (304) 696-4483. If you do your part, the street division will do theirs. Let's all work together to make our city a better place to live, work, study and play!

City of Huntington Street Sweeper Attacking Fallen Leaves

2009-10-31T10:35:00.004-04:00

Several people have mentioned that the city's street sweeper has been seen cleaning fallen leaves from our neighborhood streets. Although the operator must deal with getting around parked cars, he is doing an admirable job. We saw them in our neighborhood, which is near Julian's Market on 12th Street on the southside. Before the fall season has ended, we will see the continuation of the trees shedding their leaves. The Street Division is doing the best they can do with the equipment they currently have to use. Our compliments to them and the City of Huntington.

We encourage all property owners, who are physically able, to rake and bag your property's fallen leaves and place the bagged leaves on the curb for pickup by the city. If you really want to be of assistance to the city and your neighborhood, why not rake the leaves in the street in front of your home, bag them and place them on the curb for pickup? Let's all help our city by pitching in to present a "clean and green" appearance for our home town? To have your bagged leaves picked up by the city, call the City of Huntington Street Division at (304) 696-4483.

Dancing with the Tri-State Stars set for Nov. 7

2009-10-29T09:53:00.003-04:00

"Dancing with the Tri-State's Stars" is set for Nov. 7, and Delegate Kelli Sobonya will be dancing the Cha Cha for a good cause.

Dancing with the Tri-State's Stars is a dance competition to benefit Ebenezer Medical Outreach. The event will be Saturday, Nov. 7, at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena. Tickets are $20 and are on sale at the box office and through Ticketmaster. Here is the official Ticketmaster link:

Dancing W/ Tri-State Stars tickets, dates. Official Ticketmaster site.

The lineup of "Tri-State stars" includes: Dr. Eric Arnold, chair of the Kinesiology Department at Marshall University; Dr. Rick Booth from Valley Health; Sabrina Conley, director of health and wellness at the YMCA; Dee Delancy with WOWK-TV.

There's more: Sean Hornbuckle, Marshall's student body president; Brandi Jacobs-Jones with the city of Huntington; Brittany Mills, Miss West Virginia United States; former Marshall University head coach Bobby Pruett; Marshall Reynolds of Champion Industries;

And even more: Rich Blankenship, mayor of Ironton, Ohio; William Smith, superintendent of Cabell County Schools; Kelli Sobonya, West Virginia delegate; Carol Templeton, principal of St. Joseph Grade School; JB Miller of Miller in the Morning; Huntington Mayor Kim Wolfe; and Randy Yohe with WSAZ.

Some of the Tri-State’s stars will dance the salsa, the tango, the cha cha and the jive all for an incredible cause. Ebenezer Medical Outreach has been providing health care for the uninsured for years in Huntington and the surrounding area. Your attendance will support the cause and your applause will choose the winner. Be there to support your favorite dance!

A few corporate tables are still available. $500 and $1,000. The $1,000 tables are on the floor. Both types of corporate tables receive 8 tickets and attendance to the pre-show mix and mingle with the dancers and food & beverages.

Program ads are also available for sale. More information is available by calling 304-529-0753, Ext. 118. Additionally, you can e-mail ashleythompson@emohealth.org; or, call Kelli Sobonya (304) 733-9169. Her email address is Sobonya4WVHouse@aol.com.

Notice by City on Development Projects is Needed

2009-10-27T10:09:00.005-04:00

The City of Huntington's current policy for notifying residents of proposed development projects and zoning appeals that affect residential neighborhoods is inadequate. An example of its shortcomings was obvious recently when a developer's plans for building 25-30 apartment units, along with 100 storage units at 745 3rd Street in West Huntington was considered by the Huntington City Council at its September 28, 2009, meeting.

It was revealed that a developer had applied for a $300,000 Federal Home Program Grant which would require an undetermined number of low-income housing units. No one could verify the required number.

A large group of residents from the neighborhood surrounding the proposed site attended the city council meeting to protest the rezoning ordinance and development proposal for the address. The neighborhood group voiced several concerns as to the inconsistent and flawed manner in how the rezoning ordinance was handled. They were alarmed that only sixty (60) notification letters were sent to residents near the subject property, most going to addresses outside of their district (District #4) which were not impacted by the proposed development.

Thankfully these residents were concerned enough to distribute fliers to the residents close to the project. They had no prior knowledge that the zoning change ordinance would be on the agenda for a final vote at the city council meeting.

The group was additionally concerned about the sewer and sanitation problems, traffic issues. Fortunately for the neighborhood, the rezoning has been canceled because the property owners withdrew their offer to sell the property.

The city council should implement a better notification process that informs a larger number of residents. If possible, to everyone in the affected district. The current 200-foot radius used for notification is not ample to allow citizens who are impacted by ANY proposal to voice their opinion.

Please contact your city council representatives and ask them if they would raise this issue in one of their upcoming meetings. Request that they vote to make an inquiry into the idea of changing the Huntington City Code, making the code more appropriate and responsive to those of us who live within the city of Huntington.

The westside neighborhood group wants to make sure other Huntington residents are aware of what could happen in their districts without ever hearing from the city about drastic changes that may affect the quality of their lives, environment and property value.

For further information, please call Mary Bryan at (304) 525-2255, or Terry Ballard at (304) 522-3461. They brought this situation to our attention.

Trick-or-Treat at the Minton Street Kid's Peace Garden

2009-10-25T14:23:00.001-04:00

Huntington, WV – Residents of Northcott Court, Minton Street, Fairfield, or anyone out and about on Trick-or-Treat night is welcome to visit the 1016 Minton St. Kid’s Flower Peace Garden!

During Huntington’s Trick-or-Treat night – Thursday, October 29, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. – the Huntington Community Gardens (HCG) volunteers will be handing out candy, hot apple cider, and other healthier options to area youth and offering the neighborhood a chance to tour the garden.

Also, don’t forget to visit the AD Lewis Center’s “Trunk-or-Treat” where area children can ask for candy and other nutritious options within the safety of the parking lot.

For further details, contact:
HCG Project Coordinator, Jennifer Williams at 304-840-2500
Assistant Coordinator, Eve Atkinson at 304-697-1402.

Message to Members of Create Huntington and Those Who Would Like to Be

2009-10-18T11:37:00.004-04:00

Message to the Members of Create Huntington and Huntington Residents Who Would Like to Be; from Member Stacy McChesney.
--------------------
Support [for Create Huntington] is appreciated, but we NEED You Now!

Believe me, I get it. Between work, school, kids, parents and everyday life - it's hard to carve out an hour. But, if you can make one hour for yourself, you will discover new energy, meet new people and learn about things happening in our community - things you've only "wished" about.

Never been able to make it to Chat n Chew? Here's your chance. Come as you are, MONDAY evening, 5-6 p.m., in the lobby of the Frederick Hotel. Remember, it's not a meeting, so you can't possibly be "too late" - and you can leave anytime.

You see, now through Tuesday, over 400 community and business leaders are in Huntington to see what we've been up to. We need you to step up and set the example. All you have to do is smile, strike up a conversation or point someone who looks lost in the right direction - there's nothing to it. If you want to take it to the next level formally volunteer, please check in at Conference headquarters at the Big Sandy Superstore Arena, Third Ave. & 8th Street, and ask for Julie Hewett. It's nothing physical, but they do need you to direct people.

Don't miss: TODAY, public sessions, 1-4 p.m., ($39) pertaining to writing a business plan for success, green jobs, unlocking creativity and social media. Live music, Bluetrain, 4:30-6:30 p.m., lobby of the Frederick Hotel (FREE), Jamie Oliver's Kitchen is open 5-8 p.m. (FREE), Mountain Stage / five acts, including Kathy Mattea, 8 p.m. @ the Keith Albee Theater ($20).

TOMORROW: The Conference really kicks into gear and you may walk up and register. Go to http://www.facebook.com/l/257ed;www.createwv.com for a detailed agenda. After the events are over, we will return to Thursday night think tanks, EVERY THURSDAY, 5:30-7 p.m. Quality of place and change of pace begins with you. We can't do it for you, but we will meet you half way. Create Huntington!

Californian Rehabilitating Huntington Structures Compliments City of Huntington

2009-10-13T17:31:00.003-04:00

A San Francisco woman will be returning to Huntington on October 17th to continue what she refers to as "my grand experiment." She contacted me after viewing our blog for several months. Here are some comments she made regarding her project to rehabilitate two houses here in Huntington. She was complimentary of the City of Huntington. Here are some of her comments:

Lessons Learned About Huntington, WV
By Michele Foose

In Huntington, don’t be afraid of permits or building inspectors. It is easy and affordable to get a building permit in Huntington. Although you have to troop down to their offices, once you get there [Huntington City Hall] Nita, the woman who issues permits, is very helpful and informative. In fact, she gave me several good tips to reduce my permitting costs.

The building inspectors I met with were informative, reasonable, and mostly friendly. I had one surprise visit from a building inspector and he started out by being officious and very authoritarian. However, after he saw that I was really trying to do a good job, he was supportive and helpful.

Here is a suggestion I would like to offer: For a novice like me, it was difficult to learn just what was required for a major rehabilitation of a residential structure. For homeowners trying to do work for themselves, or for a community group trying to do a quality job on a tight budget, it would be helpful if the City of Huntington’s Department of Building Inspection would put together a code guide pamphlet for Do-It-Yourselfers (DIY). The pamphlet should list key areas of concern, general guidelines, and best practices presented in a simple, user-friendly layout. It should include guidelines for window and electrical outlet placement, requirements for appliance venting, fire and safety issues, tips for grounding electrical systems, etc. This one-source guide should be readily available to people trying to do a good job with their DIY projects.

Bottom Line: The City of Huntington Building Inspectors must be stretched-thin, as it was sometimes hard to get in touch with them, but they were helpful, reasonable, and for me, they were a valuable resource.

Create WV Conference is Less than a Week Away!

2009-10-12T13:30:00.002-04:00

Submitted by Anne Durham, Communicator, Create Huntington Board of Connectors.

Dear Creative Friends,
It is hard to believe, but the Create WV Conference is less than a week away! On Sunday, hundreds of the state's brightest, creative and most influential people will be arriving to experience Huntington first-hand, and they will be here for three days. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our community to improve its statewide image and our success depends on how well we "show up" and show off"! So please, make plans to get involved! Recruit your family and neighbors and forward this e-mail to everyone you know in the community!

Here are some conference announcements:

More Downtown Windows Needed: Artwork has been placed in empty storefront windows downtown as part of ArtGawk! Festivall Charleston. But the volunteers have more artwork than windows! If you have downtown display space, please contact Carter Seaton at carterseaton@comcast.net.

Special $99 Registration Rate: Create WV is offering a special $99 registration rate for Create Huntington volunteers who have helped with the conference. (The normal conference rate is $299.) The $99 rate applies to students and artists as well. This is an affordable opportunity to learn strategies and skills that will help you be more effective in your community, business,educational and economic work. Register NOW!!

Conference Volunteers Needed: Conference volunteers are needed to welcome people to Huntington by being available to answer questions, provide support and give a warm welcome to attendees. To sign up to volunteer, please contact Julie Hewett at jkhewett@julnet.com.

Conference Briefing: Everyone interested in making the Create WV Conference a positive experience for the attendees is encouraged to attend Chat and Chew at the Frederick Hotel lobby, Thursday, October 15 at 5:30 p.m. There will be a full briefing to help residents and volunteers understand events and needs prior to the conference.

Be watching for more Create WV Conference listserve announcements throughout the week. Thank you for your efforts to make this a highly successful event for Huntington!

Mountain Stage Live - Keith Albee Theatre

2009-10-10T10:19:00.004-04:00

You're Invited to Celebrate WV Talent on the Mountain Stage! Ask almost any listener of public radio around the country and chances are they're a fan of - or at least heard of - Mountain Stage.

For over 25 years, Larry Groce, Andy Ridenour and team have been putting West Virginia on the cultural map with an eclectic live music showcase featuring diverse musicians in traditional roots, folk, country, gospel, blues, rock and other genres.

Mountain Stage is a classic example of the creative economy at work. It has improved West Virginia's "brand" image around the world and has brought cultural experiences to us that never would have been accessible otherwise.

We are honored and thrilled that a special Mountain Stage concert featuring Kathy Mattea and many other artists with West Virginia roots will open the Create WV 2009 Conference on Sunday, October 18, at 7pm at the beautiful Keith Albee Theatre!

We invite you to attend whether or not you're attending the conference. Conference-goers attend FREE, but non-conference attendees can also attend for only $20. Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.com.

If you're anywhere near Huntington on Sunday, October 18, please join us!

The Huntington ArtGawk - October 8 Through November 5

2009-10-08T10:55:00.002-04:00

The Create West Virginia Conference is less than two weeks away and dozens of citizen volunteers are working to prepare the downtown area for this important event. One of these efforts is ArtGawk.

Regional artists will display their work in storefronts in downtown Huntington from Oct. 8 through Nov. 5. The exhibit, called ArtGawk, is in conjunction with the Create West Virginia Conference, scheduled for Oct. 18-20. More than 50 works of art from about two dozen artists
will include paintings, prints, photographs, drawings, ceramics, fabric art and sculptures.

The art will be displayed in windows along 9th and 10th streets from 3rd to 4th avenues and in the 900 block of 3rd Avenue. The display is patterned after ArtGawk during FestivALL Charleston and is sponsored by Taylor Books and FestivALL Charleston. Information is
available at info@FineARC.org.

For more information, contact Naomi Bays at naomi@apartmentearth.net or Carter Seaton at carterseaton@comcast.net.

Register now for the Create WV Conference at http://www.blogger.com/www.createwv.com. There is now a $99 registration rate for artists, students and Create Huntington volunteers who have been working on the conference. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to welcome the state's top thinkers in economic development and culture to Huntington and learn some great ideas for our own community!

City Should Focus On Plan To Remove Fallen Leaves From City Streets

2009-09-30T17:02:00.005-04:00

With all of the rain we have been blessed with this summer, it portends a heavy down flow of leaves on City of Huntington streets in the next few weeks. The prompt removal of leaves from our streets in the fall of the year has been an issue within the city for several years. In my travels around the thirteen Huntington neighborhoods, it is obvious that the streets are not being cleaned by the city. Leaves remain from last fall and the storm sewers appear to be in need of cleaning, as they are filled with a myriad of items and debris.

We are hopeful that our new city administration is planning to demonstrate a new approach to removing leaves from city streets this year in a prompt and efficient manner. Leaves block street gutters and storm sewers, causing street flooding, obstructions to vehicle parking and create fire hazards.

Mayor Kim Wolfe and the City of Huntington departments have improved the day-to-day operation of our city government. This particularly critical operational task is important to the continuing community efforts to create sustainable "clean and green" neighborhoods. We have confidence that they are up to handling the task.