Monongalia County Commission regular meeting August 19, 2026

The Monongalia County Commission held a regular meeting on August 19, 2026, where they approved various financial vouchers totaling over $841,000, including funds for parks, emergency services, and transportation. They approved personnel changes, including the hiring of a new deputy with a $35,000 annual salary. The commission authorized the president to enter into a contractual agreement for the West Virginia Community Corrections Grant Program and approved grant reimbursements related to highway safety. They also approved the renewal of a memorandum of agreement with the Department of the Army for lock operations on the upper Mon River and directed payment of scheduled debt service related to a tax increment revenue bond. Public comments focused heavily on concerns about the use and oversight of Flock Safety AI license plate reader cameras, with multiple speakers urging the commission to reconsider or ban the technology due to privacy, accuracy, and civil rights issues. The commission acknowledged these concerns but emphasized their responsibility to make decisions in the county's best interest. Additionally, the Morgantown Public Library announced a new digital society position funded by the commission to improve digital literacy and connectivity in the community. No new capital projects or vendor contracts were discussed beyond grant and agreement approvals.