Weirton Council met in an information session Wednesday, continuing discussion on a proposal to expand the city’s employee residency requirement, along with pay issues and possible projects in the city.
City Manager Joe DiBartolomeo had raised the issue during a previous work session, and on Wednesday, also suggested the possibility of an incentive program to attract employees or encourage training.
“We’ve got to be more creative,” DiBartolomeo said.
Public Works Director Rod Rosnick said he has some part-time employees who would not qualify for full-time jobs because of their residency.
Police Capt. Rick Stead said it is difficult to attract those interested in becoming police officers to Weirton with the residency requirement.
“Our problem is recruiting and getting people to come here,” Stead said, noting the last hiring class saw seven applicants.