Elevator repairs to begin April 7 at courthouse

By ROBERT A. DEFRANK - Staff Writer , Times Leader

ST. CLAIRSVILLE - Belmont County Commissioners conducted regular business during their Wednesday meeting.

Commissioners noted that the courthouse elevator will be out of service April 7 to May 22 for a replacement project. Commissioners noted that arrangements have been made for people with disabilities who require the use of the upper floors. The commissioners' office will be available for their use.

Commissioner Mark Thomas remarked that the board has consulted with the judges while scheduling the dates for the elevator work. The courtroom at the county jail is also available for court use if necessary.

"The time frame for the shutdown of the elevator was all worked through as far as the elected officials and those who may be directly affected by it. It's the best way we can address the situation, and we'll simply make the best of it," he said. "Replacement of the elevator is a necessity, not a luxury."

Also, Pultney Township Trustee Frank Shaffer noted that a cleanup effort at Trough Run Road is set for April 23, 9 a.m. However, he noted that groups have continued to litter the area after cleanups and asked for assistance in either setting up cameras or a fence. The land is mitigation property. Commissioners will send buildings and grounds employees to assess the area.

Guests also inquired about a population drop in the Ohio Valley as was recently reported. Thomas noted that this was not a census year and the numbers may not be accurate. Also, there are questions about the source of this information. Further factors complicate the matter, since the area sees more deaths than births, and it is unclear to what extent the numbers represent those born in the area or who have moved in.

Richard Hord asked if the new senior services director would give a report of the department's activities at an upcoming board meeting. He was told this would take place in a future meeting.

In other matters, commissioners also noted the upcoming April 8 Job Fair at the mall will feature more than 100 employers.

The Belmont County Sheriff's Residence Museum will hold its open house Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

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Elevator repairs to begin April 7 at courthouse