Huntington City Council approves infrastructure projects, discusses homeless issue

HUNTINGTON, WV (WOWK) — The Huntington City Council meeting Monday night brought in a crowd of concerned residents.

Many spoke on the ongoing increase in the homeless population, specifically within the Highlawn neighborhood.

Some, Like Dr. John Prentice, say they believe empathy and compassion should be the response to this situation, instead of using law enforcement resources.

“These individuals go through hassles to complete daily tasks such as accessing water accessing food, and accessing a bathroom,” Prentice says.

However, others, like Linda Blough say they believe having an increase in the homeless population, increases crime, creates safety concerns, and law enforcement should be involved.

“We talk about helping those who are struggling, but who is looking out for the hardworking taxpayers, who are being victimized by the increase in crime, theft, and disorder that arises from this crisis?” Blough says.

Mayor Steve Williams also commented on the subject saying the city should act with compassion, but also keep those who break the law accountable for their actions.

“No police department or law enforcement agency will reduce or eliminate homelessness,” Williams says.

Mayor Williams goes on to say that having better collaboration within the agencies that provide care for the homeless population will help decrease this ongoing issue.

It’s unclear if council members will be discussing this issue in future meetings.

Also discussed during the city council meeting, was the Huntington Water Quality Board’s major infrastructure project.

City Council approved an ordinance to support projects that would include installing sewage line extensions through Route 10, in the Norwood and Green Valley areas.

Council members also voted to pass an ordinance that will allow the sanitary board to purchase properties for construction of a new board office, sanitary station, and two pump stations.

A resolution allowing the board to separate sewer and stormwater systems to prevent flooding was also approved.

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