Council pursues block grant to remodel Morgantown City Hall

Fri, 07/15/2016 - 2:32pm — Diane Dyer

The City of Morgantown is in the process of applying for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in order to secure the funds to remodel Morgantown City Hall. The project would include an addition of an elevator and handicap accessibility. On Thursday, July 14, at 5 p.m. there was a public forum at the Eva J. Hawes Building at the Charles Black City Park.

Katie Ford, of Barren River Area Development District, spoke about the grant to a large crowd of supporters.
The Morgantown City Council approved the following resolution in support of the C.D.B.G. during their regular scheduled meeting:
Whereas, the City of Morgantown is desirous of promoting community development and enhanced community facilities within its boundaries,
Therefore be it resolved by the City of Morgantown:

That the submission of an application for Community Development Block Grant funds not exceeding $500,000 for community development activities, including handicap accessible construction. The application will be submitted under the 2016 Community Projects category of funding.

That the Mayor is authorized to sign the grant application, statement of assurances and other documents necessary for the execution of the application and development of the project.

That the Barren River Area Development District is authorized to prepare the application on behalf of the City and if funded, to assist in the administration of the project.

This resolution was adopted by a 6-0 vote of the Morgantown City Council at the July 14, 2016, regular meeting." City Hall is the anchor holding downtown together and we would like to make it an example of what could be. Currently, Morgantown City Hall is not handicap accessible, which prevents its ability to hold any public meetings and that is one of its primary functions," said Mayor Billy Phelps.