ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — The Belmont County Board of Commissioners appointed Jackee Pugh, Executive Director of Belmont County Tourism, to the Belmont County Port Authority Board, a move commissioners say is a significant step for the county’s economic development and tourism.
Commissioner J.P. Dutton praised Pugh’s experience, noting that she brings a strong tourism background and community ties to the Port Authority. “We talk often about the importance of tourism as a driver of economic growth. Jackee’s expertise will be instrumental as we move forward with key projects,” he said.
Pugh’s appointment comes at a time of renewed focus on collaborative initiatives between the Port Authority and the Belmont County Tourism Council. One such project is the relocation of the Underground Railroad Museum to the historic Black Horse Inn in Morristown, a joint effort funded through the Governor’s Appalachian Program.
Dutton said Pugh is working on activities to recognize Belmont County’s 225th anniversary. Commissioner Vince Gianangeli added that 2026 will mark the United States’ 250th anniversary and the county will plan a celebration.
The board also approved more than $1 million in contracts for infrastructure improvements, including change orders for the county health department building and restroom upgrades at the Sargus Juvenile Detention Center. Commissioners acknowledged ongoing funding efforts from state officials, including Representative Don Jones, to enhance juvenile facilities in the region.
Additionally, several senior center staff travel approvals were reviewed for June programming across multiple locations in Ohio and West Virginia. A new chip-seal road program covering eight townships was also approved to help secure better pricing and improve local road conditions.
The next Belmont County Board of Commissioners meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 28, at 10 a.m. at the Belmont County Courthouse.
