Is this well spent taxpayer money?

An issue of universal concern, from Dunsmuir California to Alberta Virginia

Recently, it seems my home town of Clarksburg West Virginia has had more than its share of controversy regarding present and future economic development. Now, it seems my County Commission (Harrison County) is creating its own ‘newsworthiness.’

According to recent news reports, the County Commission is considering condemning an entire block of existing businesses to make way for a much-needed courthouse annex. Here is one footprint of the proposed annex.

(Exponent Telegram Theet.com Dec 20)

Before I continue, I do see the need for an annex, but not at the expense of people’s homes and livelihoods - especially when there are less disruptive and less costly options.

For the last several years, I have been directly involved in efforts to revitalize the Clarksburg downtown. And, I view this proposed condemnation as actually ‘devitalization.’ By removing these buildings, the City would lose six businesses: Kelly’s Irish Pub, a landmark - gone. Washington Square restaurant – gone. A beauty shop and a barber shop – gone. A fitness center - gone. And, The Public Defender’s Office – all gone. Adding insult to injury, there are a few apartments on the upper floors of one building – these residents would lose their homes. Here is the proposed condemnation block.

It has been estimated that over 30 people would be displaced. Employees would lose their jobs and some businesses may not be able to relocate due to owner-age, financial burden, or space availability. Not failing to mention, building owners would also lose rental income. Something else to consider: The ‘ripple effect’ of lost businesses. Consider all the companies these businesses deal with: food vendors, equipment suppliers, custodial services, beverage distributors, and many others. This ripple effect would resonate throughout the city and county. Another consideration: The Commission would have to pay fair market value for these buildings and then pay to have them demolished...prior to any site preparation and construction.

While reviewing the County Commission website, I uncovered this statement from their work plan, “It is our desire to aggressively pursue economic development and other revenue enhancements. The end result, creation of new jobs that would stimulate our economy.” And now, the Commission is considering demolishing an entire block, a block which has, and will continue to make a significant contribution to the city’s economic growth.

While no one disagrees that the present courthouse is overcrowded and an annex is greatly needed, there are other options, options that would not create unnecessary burden and effect livelihoods. Apparently the County Commission has looked at the other options, but (apparently) favors block demolition.

Let us take a quick look at the options: One option is to build on a parking lot the County Commission already owns. This makes perfect sense: You already own the lot, so there is no additional cost to the taxpayers. The only drawback,  it is approximately 75 yards from the courthouse.

Considering other parking: Less than 20 yards from the courthouse are additional privately-owned lots. Acquiring these would not displace or disrupt anyone but the lot owner(s). Both of these are located behind the courthouse.

The other option is to purchase the currently vacant Goff Building, which is an historic office building just feet from the courthouse.

This is a 9-story building with 55,800 square feet of available space. The property includes an adjacent 65-space parking lot. The building was constructed in 1911, using the world’s finest marble, hardwood, wrought iron and tensile strength steel, a better grade product than today’s steel. Further research uncovered that the only load-bearing walls are the exterior walls, which allows for quick interior demolition and modernization. The property will be auctioned off February 7th to the highest bidder, with a minimum bid of $325,000.

I have purposely avoided cost references, until now. It has been estimated that this courthouse annex project would carry a $20 million-dollar price tag. Yes, $20 million dollars of taxpayer money.

Time to be objective: One option involves a parking lot the Commission already owns - no additional cost. Option two involves purchasing other adjacent parking lot(s) 20 yards away – rather minimal cost. Option three would be to purchase and preserve an historic, structurally sound, easily renovated building…feet from the Court House, for (probably) way under $1 million dollars. The fourth option would be to condemn an entire block and tear everything down - displacing six business and forcing some from their homes. You be the judge! What’s fair? What’s best? How do you want your $20 million dollars spent?

Make no mistake, I support the courthouse annex project. However, I do believe other close-by ‘available’ locations, rather than block condemnation would be in everyone’s best interest: Saves taxpayer money. No businesses removed…businesses which make a significant day and nighttime contribution to downtown Clarksburg.

I urge my County Commission to take ‘Option Four’ off the table. If you agree, I encourage you to make your voice(s) heard by contacting your Commission: Harrison County Commission, 301 West Main Street, Clarksburg, WV 26301 (304-624-8500) Email contact available on their website.

For my friends and followers outside of my area: This piece could have easily applied to your city. Stay connected to what is going on in your community. Make you voice(s) heard. Your time will come.

And that’s the way I see it on this cold, but beautiful February morning.

Until next time, this is Michael saying,

“There is a better way”