A new bill, HB 2479, introduced by Del. Jordan Maynor (R–Raleigh, 41), aims to change how county development authorities are managed in West Virginia.
Currently, county development authorities are run by boards with at least 12 members, but the new bill would lower the minimum number of board members to 7 and keep the maximum number at 21.
The bill also updates how members are appointed and serve on the board.
Under the proposal:
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The first members would serve staggered terms of 1, 2, and 3 years.
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After that, all new members would serve 3-year terms.
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Members can be reappointed for more terms if the county commission chooses.
If a board member leaves early—whether by resignation, removal, or other reasons—the county commission would pick a new member to finish that term. Board members would continue serving until their replacements are appointed.
The bill also allows businesses and individuals with interests in the county to request being appointed to the board, based on the authority’s rules.
Key Changes:
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Reduces the number of board members from 12 to 7
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Staggered terms for the first board members, with 3-year terms for future members
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Members will continue serving until a replacement is appointed
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Businesses and residents with interests in the county can request board appointments
Del. Maynor’s bill aims to make county development authorities more efficient, though it decreases the number required, shrinking oversight.
