It is unfortunate that the so-called federal "stimulus" program includes so many restrictions that some worthwhile public works projects do not qualify for it. No doubt many Ohio Valley residents have joined us in scratching our heads over work on which "stimulus" money is being spent.

Surely, somewhere in the $787 billion appropriated for "stimulus," there must be funding for truly needed projects - such as replacing West Liberty's municipal building.

The old municipal building, formerly a church, has deteriorated to the point that it is unsafe for use. Repairs would cost as much as $225,000, and that is money the town does not have, according to Mayor Jo Jo Ullom. Plans are to "deconstruct" - tear down - the building.

Temporary facilities for most town government functions have been obtained in the West Liberty Volunteer Fire Department. The community's police department is operating out of an office provided by West Liberty State College.

Ullom said she and town council members hope to build a new town hall at the site of the current building. However, West Liberty doesn't have enough money to undertake that project on its own, she added. Grants will be sought to help with the work.

We encourage state officials to give favorable consideration to any request from West Liberty. In particular, we hope they will examine rules for "stimulus" money provided to the state, in an effort to find a way to use some of that funding to help West Liberty.

The more than 1,200 residents of West Liberty need a new town hall - and they need one soon. While the state itself may not be able to afford to fund such projects, a large amount of "stimulus" money has been allotted for West Virginia. Surely, somewhere in that fund, money can be found to help West Liberty.