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In my letter to the editor two weeks ago, I outlined the difference between Elkins and the county's reasons for and against annexation.
This week, I will highlight the differences between each governmental entity and their plans. Progress is not free or cheap. But if we want the benefits of progress, it must be paid in some form.
Mayor Marco personally reached out to 22nd Century Technologies Inc. to come to Randolph County, as they are located outside city limits. In the company's press release, they said Mayor Marco "has been instrumental in positioning West Virginia and in particular the City of Elkins as 'Open for Business.'"
Mayor Marco also spearheaded the TIF which provides funding of projects to spur economic development. The state-approved plan positions the city to target companies to locate in Elkins. During the process, the county commissioners did not even attend Elkins' TIF meeting.
The sole purpose of a TIF is to build infrastructure to attract business. In another city, the TIF created an environment where Mr. Kesling decided to place one of his personal businesses. Would that not be good for our community as well?
Elkins is moving forward. With the renovation of the Tygart Hotel, Augusta renovating the Wilt Building and the RCDA building an Event Center in the Railyard, our community is poised for growth that will shape the area for generations.
What is the commission's plan for growth?
It is that type of vision and drive that I entrust the 1% to. Every citizen and municipality in Randolph County should be able to work cooperatively with the commission. Growth of Elkins is a sign of progress for the community as a whole.
If anyone feels I am misrepresenting the facts, I encourage everyone to reread the article on Feb. 7, "County, city officials spar over annexation" and look at the reasons for and against annexation.
It is unfortunate that the best interests of the city, community, county, this area of the state, has turned into a "urinating contest." In the times that we currently live in, it seems as if alienation, polarization and divisiveness is the recipe to get elected and more importantly stay elected.
The best interest of the entire country and its citizens can be a well-camouflaged "pretend point." The lyricist Neil Peart wrote, "He knows changes aren't permanent but change is." That's the benefit of our democracy, that even under the duress that it is currently experiencing, it is holding true, and the opportunity to enact the necessary "change" can be accomplished every election cycle.
Dr. A. Lamarr Weese
Elkins business owner