Fairmont · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fairmont public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
City Council Election Candidate Profile
Fairmont’s District 1 council race is getting a closer look with a profile of candidate Marcella Yaremchuk, a familiar local face. It’s a quick read aimed at helping voters know more before they cast a ballot.
2026-27 Budget Amendment and Pension Costs
Council adopted the first revision to this fiscal year's General Fund budget. Details of the shifts weren't discussed on the record.
Superfund site cleanup
The city is moving to acquire the Big John Salvage property to remove industrial waste from the river and riverbanks. Public hearing October 27.
Alleged robbery complaint and notice of lawsuit
A resident told council police still haven't investigated a $3,000 robbery he reported three months ago, alleging the response would differ for white victims, and formally notified the city of a pending lawsuit.
Comprehensive plan public engagement
The city's 10-20 year plan covers housing, downtown, transportation, and public spaces. A big public meeting is December 2 at Fairmont State — your input shapes it.
Mommy Roberts Memorial Bridge repair easement
The bridge repair will remove the defunct 1950s elevator and the steps into Mid-City Parking Lot, a loss Councilmember Weber called regrettable for the city's history.
City Council Candidate Profile
Fairmont District 9 councilmember Kandi Nuzum is under the election spotlight, and she’s making flooding her top issue. If you live in District 9, her positions could directly affect how the city responds to flood problems.
Public Official Arrest
White Hall’s deputy mayor, Timothy Ridenour, was arrested Thursday for alleged shoplifting, according to the Times West Virginian. It’s a small-town official legal case just outside Fairmont, so the direct citywide impact is likely limited but politically noticeable.
Knights of Pythias Building demolition
The city and school board will jointly demolish the old Knights of Pythias building at 1573 Mary Lou Retton Drive; public hearing October 13.
Park Drive stormwater project
The city got FEMA approval for all engineering costs on an approximately $1 million drainage project tied to the June 2025 flash flood, and is now seeking capital dollars to complete it.
Gateway Connector resurfacing and dead trees
Gateway Connector resurfacing has started — expect delays. The $271,000 Sallyfield Estates project covering five streets is also underway.
Republic Services trash contract extension and rate increase
The Republic Services garbage contract gets a 60-day extension while the city re-bids it competitively, but a rate increase is coming when the extension is stretched to March 2027.