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Weirton Council allocated $240,000 to the WVU Hancock County Extension Service and $74,926.36 to the Weirton Police Department from opioid settlement funds. The funding for the extension service will establish a prevention program assistant position aimed at educating middle school students about substance use risks. Concerns were raised about police surveillance cameras, but officials assured they would not infringe on residents' privacy.
Steubenville City Council reviewed 10 resumes for the city manager position, following Jim Mavromatis's retirement announcement. Two applicants do not meet the qualifications, leaving eight candidates under consideration as the council plans to check their references and backgrounds. Councilman Joel Walker emphasized the need to move forward in the selection process.
Timothy P. Iverson, 44, pled guilty to sexual abuse charges in West Virginia, receiving a sentence of 10 to 20 years in prison. The plea agreement resulted in the dismissal of over 80 additional charges, with the victim, now an adult, supporting the resolution.
Catholic Central boys’ soccer team defeated Monroe Central 6-0 in the Ohio Division V Eastern District Sectional Co-Final, advancing to the district semifinals. Head coach Steve Kopcha emphasized the importance of scoring first, and Santi Descazlo led the Crusaders with two goals.
Two Steubenville High School students participated in the Broadway Dreams theater program in New York City from June 30 to July 5, gaining valuable stage experience. Anthony Pearce and Mia Loy trained with Broadway professionals and performed after just five days of preparation.
Follansbee Mayor Scott McMahon announced that the Army Corps of Engineers opened bids for a water project, but the lowest bid of $9.5 million exceeds the $4 million budget. City officials are working to reduce costs while addressing service disruptions linked to ongoing sewer work and aging infrastructure. Additionally, the city’s swimming pool and park face significant deficits, prompting discussions on funding and operational changes.
Volunteers finalized plans for the Follansbee Christmas in the Park festival, scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, raising funds for local charities. Approximately 70 vendors will participate, and flu shots will be available at the Community House on Saturday.
Hancock County commissioners are deliberating the distribution of approximately $1.6 million from West Virginia's opioid settlement funds. While some commissioners advocate for using the funds to support county expenses related to opioid abuse, others argue that the money should be used for community programs focused on prevention and rehabilitation.
Philanthropists Bill and Nena Beynon donated $100,000 to Weirton’s Community Bread Basket to combat food insecurity in the Northern Panhandle. Half of the funds will provide holiday food baskets for families in need, while the remainder supports ongoing services. The Beynons encourage community involvement, emphasizing the importance of giving back.
The Weirton Police Department promoted Randy Kernen to lieutenant and Jeff Miller to sergeant during a ceremony attended by city officials and community members. Kernen joined the department in 2011 and became a sergeant in 2019, while Miller has been with the department since 2008. The promotions reflect the department's commitment to recognizing and advancing dedicated officers.