Highlights from the “State of Marshall County” Breakfast
Business Growth and Recognition
- Kris Warner, West Virginia Secretary of State, recognized the achievements of Marshall County businesses at the annual “State of Marshall County” breakfast.
- Warner announced that there are 1,333 registered businesses in Marshall County, part of 132,219 statewide.
- The One Stop Business Center has streamlined the business startup process, reducing the time to start a business from two weeks to less than two hours.
New Initiatives
- The West Virginia Office of Entrepreneurship was launched on July 1 to assist new businesses in navigating regulations and resources, positioning West Virginia as a leader in entrepreneurship.
Awards Presented
- Warner honored two businesses with Centurian Awards for over 100 years of operation: WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital and the West Virginia Beekeepers Association.
- Two businesses, Pale Horse Solutions Group and Allied Realty Groups, were certified as veteran-owned.
Community Updates
- Moundsville City Manager Rick Healy shared that the city has a payroll of $3.8 million and updates on the construction of a new administrative building expected to be completed by the end of the year.
- Tony Martinelli, CEO of WVU Medicine Reynolds Memorial Hospital, reported significant growth in wages and services since aligning with WVU Medicine in 2015.
Education and Workforce Development
- Marshall County Superintendent Shelby Haines discussed evolving classroom dynamics and the importance of teaching critical thinking and the responsible use of information in the digital age.
- Commissioner Scott Varner emphasized the need for competitive salaries and housing developments in Marshall County to retain skilled employees.
Community Engagement
- John Davis, COO of the Wheeling Nailers, highlighted the team’s community involvement, including volunteer efforts and charitable initiatives like the “Teddy Bear Toss.”
This gathering showcased the community’s growth, innovation, and dedication to fostering a supportive environment for businesses and residents alike.
