MARTINS FERRY — The Purple City is hosting a town hall meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 10 at the Recreation Center, at 401 S. Fourth St., Martins Ferry.

The Belmont County Board of Commissioners will be on hand to answer questions and update the public about county activities.

Martins Ferry resident Richard Hord is organizing the event. He said it provides a valuable opportunity for residents who live along the Ohio River to engage with county government.

“I think it’s important to have town hall meetings such as this. There are a lot of people that may be interested in attending the commissioners’ meetings, but they’re held 9 a.m. on Wednesdays and in many cases there may be a conflict with a work schedule or other priorities, and so I thought we would try to do one a year in Martins Ferry … ,” Hord said. “Martins Ferry is the largest city in the county and it’s open to anyone in the public, it’s not just for Martins Ferry residents … ,” he said.

“We weren’t able to do it last year because of the pandemic, but we’re back on schedule this year. I appreciate the commissioners for their work and cooperation with this, the city of Martins Ferry and the rec center,” Hord said.

He also commended Phil Wallace of Ohio Valley Printing for making event fliers.

Hord said he expects to hear many questions about ongoing and future projects. One issue many are curious about is a potential ethane cracker plant that may be coming to the Dillies Bottom area along Ohio 7, but the COVID-19 pandemic and other issues have delayed the development.

Martins Ferry Mayor John Davies and other city officials are also expected to attend.

Hord said all COVID-19 safety precautions will be taken.