MOUNT HOPE, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A large crowd attended the regular meeting of the Mount Hope City Council on Tuesday evening, with numerous residents, business owners, and property owners speaking in opposition to a proposed RV park planned for the Bailey’s Bottom area of the city.
The proposed development would utilize city-owned property and parcels acquired through flood buyout programs, where permanent structures are prohibited due to floodplain restrictions.
According to Mayor Mike Kessinger, the project represents one of the few available economic development opportunities for the area.
The RV park proposal has been in development for several years and has already received federal funding.
Initial plans for the project were previously announced and include 40 RV campsites, nine campsites for tents or small pull-behind campers, nine primitive campsites accessible by trail, a bathhouse, playground, trailhead parking, picnic shelter, fire rings, and a trail system along Dunloup Creek connecting to other recreational amenities in the city.
Among those speaking against the project was Tyler Kirk, a resident and business owner who serves as CEO of Lifeline Ambulance, which is located adjacent to the proposed development site.
“There are multiple concerns being raised by the people who live, work, worship, and own property in this community. These concerns include the potential impact of property values, increase noise and traffic, privacy concerns, public safety considerations, infrastructural limitations, road maintenance issues, and the overall character of established residential neighborhood,” Kirk stated to the council.
Kirk also presented a petition opposing the project to council members and Mayor Kessinger.
“A petition has gained more more than 100 signatures in opposition of this project at this time, most of which are coming from residents and churchgoers directly affected by this project in the area of which it will be constructed.”
Several other residents also addressed council, raising concerns about increased traffic, noise, and the potential for crime in the area.
Many speakers cited the project’s proximity to homes, churches, and existing businesses as a major concern.
In response, Kessinger said the city has grants pending to hire additional police officers and said officials would do their best to ensure park guests do not create issues for nearby residents and businesses.
During the meeting, Councilwoman Patricia Conelly made a motion to table the project.
The motion did not move forward, with Kessinger stating the project was too far along in the process and noting that the matter was not listed on the meeting agenda for any type of vote.
City officials continue to support the development, describing it as part of a broader effort to promote tourism and economic growth in Mount Hope.
In a statement released by the mayor’s office, city officials said the RV park would be part of a larger initiative that also includes an outdoor amphitheater at the Historic Lonnie Warwick Mt. Hope Municipal Stadium and stream restoration projects along Dunloup Creek.
“The City of Mt Hope is advancing a bold vision for the future of Mount Hope through the development of a destination RV park, Outdoor amphitheater in the Historic Lonnie Warwick Mt Hope Municipal Stadium, and Dun Loop Creek Stream restoration to create Trout habitat all designed to attract visitors, support local businesses, and create new opportunities for economic growth throughout the community,” the statement said.
The statement added that the RV park is intended to capitalize on growing tourism associated with the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve while creating new opportunities for local businesses and generating revenue for the city.
“Any major project often generates discussion and differing viewpoints,” the statement said. “We respect that residents have questions and concerns, and we welcome those conversations. However, we must also look toward the future. These projects represent an investment in economic development, tourism, and quality of life.”
