The Braxton Democrat, Town Meeting

Sutton Town Council Hears Citizens’ Complaints

The Sutton Town Council conducted their most recent meeting on Thursday, July 11.
Mayor JD Hoover opened the meeting discussing the awning for the entrance into the town building. He stated he had contacted an individual who came to look at what would be needed and he would be getting back with a quote.
Town resident Shelly Sutphin addressed the council with some of her concerns for the town workers. She commented she had observed the workers without safety vests when they are working along the roads. In her opinion, the workers were not being provided proper tools to do their jobs and the town needs to be respectful to employees. She stated the mayor was their boss and that was who they should be addressing requests to, not the town clerk Robin Smith. Mayor Hoover stated that Recorder Robyn Dolan was the council member over the town employees as they each had their own roles as part of the town government. Recorder Dolan stated she was unaware of any issues concerning proper tools and that they were given what was needed when they asked. As for the safety vest concern, she would make sure they had their vests and talk to employees about wearing them.
Sutphin also addressed an issue with property across the bridge where debris from contract work was still in the yard along the main road.
Next Bill Hopen spoke to council about his concerns over the condition of Morrison Avenue. He requested the pot holes to be filled. Recorder Dolan stated the contractor had been contacted and would be coming in two weeks to begin work on grating the road.
Recorder Dolan stated she had spoken with someone about fixing the railing over on Stonewall in the early fall. She also noted that plans were to replace the stage flooring at the farmers market as soon as the weather cooled down and permitted the work.
Jon Crum commented on the amazing repair work done on S. Short Street. He did note the town would need to be diligent on keeping the drain cleaned so the water does not back up and damage the road again. The drain near the school was also discussed. Both drains would be placed on the rotation for checks and cleaning.
Crum addressed the drain coming down N. Haymond still needs the metal bars installed to prevent large debris or someone from accidentally going into the drain. Recorder Dolan said that is work that needs to be completed by the DOH and she would contact them again. Crum also discussed another drain in that area in that was deteriorating.
Finally, he voiced his concern over the bridge and large cracks in the supports. He requested that someone come and do an inspection. Recorder Dolan stated she would address those concerns with the DOH as well and would request someone come down and review the issues. Council also discussed issuing a letter to the DOH, the governor’s office, and Delegate Lori Dittman addressing the major issues with the bridge.
Mayor Hoover discussed the replacement of sewer lines by Flatwoods Canoe Run on N. Third Street due to raw sewage running out a residence.
Catherine Hoover addressed concerns from a citizen on Town Hill about dogs running loose and not on leashes.
The council approved the demolition permit for 291 N. Hill Road. The timeframe for the demo is July 29 to August 30.
After the second reading of Article 2 1-201: Council Meetings, the council approved changing council meetings to one meeting a month on the second Thursday at 6:00 pm in the town building. The motion was made by Catherine Hoover.
In regular action, the council approved the minutes of the June 27 meeting and the payment of bills on motions by Catherine Hoover.
The council went into executive session at 6:49 pm to address personnel. The reconvened at 7:38 pm and adjourned the meeting at 7:39 pm. The next regular meeting will be August 8 beginning at 6:00 p.m.