Eyesores in any community are a little like a squeaky door at your house. If you let it go long enough, you no longer “see” them. Cleaning up visual liabilities is important and will direct the future of our town. Clean-up projects are beautification.

The several property owners who have taken positive steps in cleaning up around various properties and are making plans to take down other vacant dwellings are to be commended. The decision to make that first step is difficult. But, the several property owners who are making these improvements will make our town better by doing it. Their hard work will pay dividends in the long run. Any positive change, however subtle, keeps us moving in the right direction for a better community.

Also, for community information and for the benefit of affected property owners, the Town of Marlinton sought a reduction of landfill charges. Specifically, for those properties that are in the process of being removed. But those efforts were to no avail. The Pocahontas County Solid Waste Authority would not approve any reduction in landfill charges. Nevertheless, the town will continue to help dispose of certain trash, so far as we can, even if it takes a few days.

Look at the difference the cleaning of streams and the removal of litter from stream banks has made. If you’ve been involved in a similar clean-up project, please share it with us. Tell us your best lessons in keeping it organized and something about your volunteers. The great thing about these projects is that success brings more success.

 A Special program and recognition for placement of signs at the end of the bridge in Marlinton is planned for Thursday, May 31.

Communication with the USFS has continued since the Secure Rural Schools Funding Presentation last fall. From these conversations has come another small project with big benefits for the fishermen and women among us.

A new fishing pier is in progress at the Stillwell Bridge. This work will allow for continued fish stocking in this location while mitigating safety issues associated with children fishing from the bridge. As additional funding becomes available, an educational kiosk will be installed to provide educational information about healthy watersheds. 

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