Land Reuse Agency created by passage of Weston (West Virginia) ordinance

“We can sell them, build on them and have new housing to make them productive rather than eyesores,” Building Code Administrator Marty Lewis said.

The ordinance’s importance was described during February’s regular meeting, when a first reading was completed.

“The importance to me becomes more imminent than ever,” Harrison-Edwards said. “To me, land reuse is a way of sustaining and having money available toward taking down more structures in the future. Land Reuse Agencies also have the right of first refusal at tax sales.

“It’s an expedited process to spurring new development in the community. You don’t have to wait for a public auction, and you have a little more control over who gets that property.”

Since their is not a county Land Reuse Agency, City Manager Nate Stansberry said agency members could even consider properties outside city limits if they choose and receive permission from the Lewis County Commission.

He said a partnership with county Economic Development Authority Executive Director Ray Smith or other representatives would be beneficial, especially as the city continues its annexation efforts.

“This will allow a committee to acquire land and have a little more power on what can be done with it,” Smith said. “If the Land Reuse Agency determines that the property is better for business or better for the city, they can sell it to somebody or develop it. It’ll be a big help.

“If we see that the city can be a benefit to the county, hopefully we can work together as well.”

House Bill 5321 requiring cities and municipalities that apply for Department of Environmental Protection grants to pay a 20 percent match forthcoming for future demolition

“That does concern me,” Harrison-Edwards said. “We’re always looking for sustaining our income just to meet regular operational expenses. We’ve come a long way with (American Rescue Plan Act) dollars to begin razing dilapidated structures and were successful in receiving that grant. We want to keep the momentum going.”

House Bill 5321 was not considered for law by the end of the legislative session, which ended March 9. As of March 25, House Bill 5321 was still listed in consideration by the Committee on Government Organization then Finance.

Council members will create an application to join the land reuse agency. Harrison-Edwards said City Attorney Brian Bailey is in the process of filing articles of incorporation as well.

The land reuse agency creation was the first ordinance passed in 2024.