The Shadow
IRON GATE, Va. (VR) -The Town of Iron Gate held its regular scheduled meeting on Thursday, Feb. 26. Several council members were out, but the meeting went on, led by Mayor Kawahna Persinger.
Mayor Persinger said that during the ice storm, a garbage truck slid into Councilwoman Jennifer Tyree’s fence. The town crew bought supplies at Lowe’s to fix it.
According to Persinger, Richard Erskine is still in a rehab center. It’s being requested that cards be sent to him.
Persinger also mentioned that Councilwoman Patricia Shifflett is dealing with a devastating loss. Her 20-year-old grandson was taken too soon in a vehicle accident.
The mayor discussed a webinar that she attended. From information gathered at the webinar, the decision was made to possibly raise the utility rates in Iron Gate. Persinger apologized for having to take this step and explained that the $6 surcharge on the garbage bill doesn’t cover gas or any repairs should they be needed. Persinger said Iron Gate will be submitting a budget request from Alleghany County.
Normally, there’s a set amount, but Persinger is going to see if the amount can be raised. At the meeting, it was discussed what would be needed to assist employers in not only hiring but also retaining qualified employees. It was also discussed how to help prospective employees remain employed.
Mayor Persinger wants to look at winter activities for Iron Gate, especially Indoor activities, to help keep people occupied during winter weather.
The mayor said Google wants to put a data center in Botetourt County. Persinger is interested in finding out if Google is interested in placing a satellite office in Iron Gate.
Persinger announced that Donald Mayo is willing to fill the third spot on the Board of Zoning Appeals. Mayo is the brother of Councilman Mayo.
