Published: November 09, 2007 11:54 am      

Mineral works on planning as a community

KEYSER - If Mineral County wants to have more control of land use, it must include the guidelines for developing ordinances for regulating land use in the update of its 11-year-old comprehensive plan, according to the consultant working with the plan.

Michael Dougherty, West Virginia Extension Service community development specialist, told a group of 22 people that came out Wednesday evening why the plan is needed.

The county's planning commission is seeking public input as part of the process of updating its comprehensive plan through a series of six public meetings throughout the county.

Planning Commission Chairman Clyde Burdock told the group of about half residents and half officials that the commission has employed the West Virginia University Extension Service as consultant on the update. Dougherty emphasized that the real input is to come from the citizens of the county and meetings with various groups and organizations.

The group responded to seven questions, including what they find positive about the county, its most pressing problems, and other issues that impact life and work in the county.

The relatively small group covered a wide range of topics and while noting there is much that is good about the county, there are a number of needs that should be addressed.

* Improved infrastructure such as water, sewer and highways.

* An improved tax base with better jobs and increased economic, commercial and residential development.

* A county cleanup plan with recycling.

* Additional health care professionals and access to health care and fitness and wellness facilities.

* Expanded library services, hours and a new, modern facility.

* Recreational programs and facilities for all ages.

* Improved animal shelter and humane services.

* Access to technology such as broadband Internet and wireless communications and a re-evaluation of the trends in technology and how they affect the community.

* A multifaceted approach to drug problems in the area.

Jim Tetrick made the point that the lack of land-use control impacts neighboring land values. Kolin Jan said that some of those issues can be addressed in the county's subdivision ordinance but he would like to see zoning implemented.

Burdock noted that land prices have increased significantly as people come in from more affluent areas and that the local population can no longer afford to buy land and build homes.

Rob Kessel, a local developer and businessman, said that he believes as the area continues to add infrastructure and development increases, there will be more affordable housing for people.

A lot of farmers sell to developers for their retirement nest egg, he said.

County Commissioner Cindy Pyles said that the county has a farmland protection program for farmers who wish to see continued agricultural use for future generations,

Conservation easements can be used to protect some areas, Dougherty said.

Wlliam Caffrey called for better reuse of existing properties and more redevelopment opportunities.

Pam Wise talked about the technology needs.

Sue Willingham suggested that there needs to be support and incentives for alternative energy usage, such as solar and wind, for individuals.

A.J. Root said that the county is in transition, along with other communities, since 9/11, and programs are being developed within the emergency services and law enforcement communities to provide a broader range of protection.

Nancy Abernathy noted that the statewide mapping program will improve 911 emergency response considerably and Bev Steele suggested that a reverse 911 system would help even more.

The next meeting in the series will be held at the Elk Garden Fire Hall on Wednesday at 7 p.m.. Additional meetings are scheduled Nov. 15 in Wiley Ford; Nov. 26 in Burlington; and Nov. 29 in Fort Ashby, all at 7 p.m. at the fire departments.

The final meeting will be Dec. 4 at the Mineral County Courthouse.

Contact Mona Ridder at mridder@times-news.com.