Development News for Bluefield, West Virginia

City Approves CDBG Drawdown, Financial Reports, and Budget Revisions; Denies Coal Severance Fund Revision

The council approved a drawdown of $22,523.96 for the gas station CDBG project. They also approved the renewal of West Virginia court services for FY 2027, although this item was tabled pending further response from the West Virginia court. The monthly financial report for April 26, 2026, was approved, showing the city is currently in the black with strong revenue collection from the city center and controlled expenditures. The collections list for the month was also approved. Additionally, Revision Number Three for the general fund budget was approved to ensure the city ends the fiscal year on solid footing. A proposal for a coal severance fund budget revision number two was denied.

Bluefield Police Officers Recognized for Bravery, New Officers Sworn In

Chief Dillow recognized several officers for their bravery and exceptional service. Sergeant Kale Ross, Lieutenant BW Copenhson, and Sergeant Parker were commended for their swift response to a fire at Woodland Apartments on February 19th, where they rescued two trapped ladies [cite: 34-48]. Patrolman KM Tape was honored for his courage on February 25th when he entered 36° water at Lake T Dam to attempt a rescue of a gentleman who had driven his vehicle off the bridge, an act where the gentleman ultimately did not survive [cite: 53-72]. The meeting also included the swearing-in of new patrol officers Mike C. Hughes, Chance R. Taylor, and Aaron P. Simkins [cite: 92-130].