HUNTINGTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The Finance Committee for the City of Huntington met on Monday and heard from several speakers on a number of issues. Among these was a brief presentation on a bid to adorn Huntington’s Arena Plaza with decorations during the holiday season.
A resolution to provide the Arena Plaza with decorations was presented before the committee, and went out for bid on June 2, with bids opening on June 15.
One bid was submitted for the project, from Artistic Holiday Designs of Cape Coral Florida in the amount of $299,722.26.
Funding for this endeavor would come from the Capital Outlay General Fund account, and would cover the cost of decorations, installation, upkeep, removal and storage of decorations between holiday seasons.
One committee member asked about storing the decorations locally, rather than covering the cost each year to have them stored and reapplied. Previous discussions with city officials appear to indicate that, while local storage may be discussed going forward, Public Works does not currently have the necessary training for the installation, removal, and storage of the decorations at this time.
The question was presented during the session by Councilman at Large Bob Bailey of whether it might be in the best interests of the committee to direct these funds to a local or state owned business.
“You mean nobody around here in West Virginia can sell us decorations,” Bailey queried. The bid from the Florida company apparently was the sole bid submitted for the proposed project.
Vice Chairwoman Walling proposed moving to full council with a favorable recommendation, noting that the proposal was “very festive.” Councilman Jackson seconded the proposal, with Walling sponsoring.
Previous LOOTPRESS coverage of Huntington City Committees sessions can be found here, while more information on local government and upcoming events can be found here at the City of Huntington website.Â