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Drone carrying contraband intercepted near federal prison; one arrest made
BY RACHEL DOVE MOUNTAIN CITIZEN VAN LEAR — A significant police operation unfolded in Stoney Brook Estates on New Route 3 Thursday morning. Residents awakened to a large police presence as law enforcement swooped in to intercept a drone transporting a substantial quantity of contraband. According to a Johnson County Sheriff’s Department representative, the cargo…
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Martin County introduces strict new garbage and nuisance ordinance
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Martin County Fiscal Court unveiled a new solid waste and nuisance ordinance in its meeting Thursday. The 22-page ordinance implements stricter fines and penalties for violators, empowers code enforcement officers with extended authority, and establishes a code enforcement board to oversee legal proceedings. Before delving into the first…
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State drops first-degree rape charge against Beauty man due to 60-year federal sentence
BY RACHEL DOVE MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — State criminal charges, including first-degree rape, were dismissed Thursday against a Beauty man recently sentenced to 60 years in federal prison. Martin Circuit Judge Kevin Holbrook granted Assistant Commonwealth Attorney Matt Runyons’ motion to dismiss charges against Donald York, 60, of Beauty. The charges included first-degree rape, first-degree…
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Harvest Festival boosts local businesses, economy
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — The Kiwanis Club gathered Thursday at Shufflin Café in Inez to reflect on the overwhelming success of the 2023 Harvest Festival and announce plans for next year. “It was a great turnout. I’ve never seen so many people in the county out and about,” Kiwanis president Melissa Phelps…
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Grassy School fated for demolition amid asbestos and lead paint concern
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — The old Grassy School is fated for demolition, but the Martin County Fiscal Court must first remove asbestos, lead paint and other hazardous materials from the structure. Martin County Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty recently discussed the results of the June 16-21 survey conducted by Tetra Tech Inc., confirming the…
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Election 2023: Voter deadlines and dates to remember
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — As the Nov. 7 General Election draws nearer, Martin County Clerk and Board of Elections Chairman Susie Skyle has issued reminders for all residents intending to cast their ballots. “Mark your calendars with these dates so you can participate in the election,” Skyles said. Deadline to register Skyles…
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Martin County advertises hearing on tax rate, approves loans for Riverside residents
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Martin County Fiscal Court announced a public hearing on the real property tax rate, approved HUD loans for Riverside residents and advanced several development projects in a meeting Thursday. The court voted to advertise a public hearing on the real property tax rate for 1 p.m. Oct. 12…
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School-based clinical social worker serves needs of students in moments of crisis
BY RACHEL DOVE MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Martin County School District administrators have recognized that students need direct access to a professionally trained therapist in times of crisis. Thanks to a grant and partnership with Big Sandy Healthcare, a certified clinical social worker now spends her days addressing the emotional and mental health needs of…
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Martin County magisterial districts unchanged by reapportionment
BY ROGER SMITH MOUNTAIN CITIZEN INEZ — Martin County’s five magisterial districts will retain their current boundaries following a recent reapportionment study. The news was confirmed Thursday by Judge/Executive Lon Lafferty during a Martin County Fiscal Court meeting. “The reapportionment plan makes no changes,” Lafferty stated before carrying out the initial reading of an ordinance…
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Martin County Arrest Report
INEZ — Martin County Sheriff John Kirk’s Office reported the following arrests: Jody Pauley, 57, of Inez, was arrested Tuesday on Route 40 on a parole violation. Chief Deputy Chris Kidd made the arrest. David Hensley, 53, of Belfry, was arrested Tuesday on Riverfront Road in Lovely on a bench warrant out of Pike County.…
Category: News
