On Monday, Michelle Rotellini President and CEO of the Beckley-Raleigh County Chamber of Commerce met with the county commission and asked for their help installing light poles around the city’s six entryways.
Rotellini told the commission that she feels the updated entryways will make the city more welcoming to newcomers.
“Each of our gateways that lead into Beckley are really important to our community because it’s the travelers, business folks and prospective future residents, it’s their first impression of Beckley,” she said.
Rotellini asked the commission to provide the power to the six light poles, which totals $60 a month.
“I think it’s a great idea. Anytime we can help make the county and the city more beautiful and more pleasant to look at for people coming into the town we are willing to. I just don’t think we can obligate more than one year,” said Raleigh County Commission President Dave Tolliver.
“Right now, we have discussed it and we will make a final decision on Dec. 15. We are looking into if we can designate more than one year of funds and if we can do that for an extended period of time. “
County Administrator Jay Queensberry shared his thoughts on Rotellini’s request.
“She has such a vision and a heart to improve the community. She just wants things to look better everywhere and improve the quality and life of Beckley to attract businesses and people.”
According to Rotellini, the theme of each gateway is “our mountains are calling.”
The commission will vote on the chamber’s proposal on Tuesday, Dec. 15.
