Don Burton: Candidate for Bridgeport (West Virginia) City Council

Biography: “Graduate of Morris Harvey College/University of Charleston, WV. I worked in the Charleston area from 1979 to 1987, moving to Bridgeport in 1987 from St. Albans. I started in Bridgeport in September of 1987 as the Parks and Recreation director, just a few years later taking on additional responsibilities supervising the Bridgeport Cemetery.”

How do you hope to change or reinforce Bridgeport City Council?

“Change is sometimes good, but it is definitely not needed. Current council members are a team. We ask questions, debate and come to a consensus. We work together!”

How do you hope to better enhance Bridgeport’s relationship with Charleston and other first- or second-class cities within the state?

“I think we are on the right track; we are a long-standing member of West Virginia Municipal League. Past mayors and city managers and some council members have been actively engaged with the association. The WVML is very active in Charleston and always has the best interest in municipalities across the state. You would be amazed at the networking that is done with first- and second-class cities. Bridgeport is contacted weekly from numerous communities large and small seeking advice.”

How do you hope to grow and promote The Bridge Sports Complex? Should the city consider other large construction projects within the next five years?

“Yes, we will continue to promote The Bridge Sports Complex and consider other amenities to the complex. We will continue to be a sports destination city. We also must keep a balance of recreational activities for our residents. We must not and will not neglect our current parks and recreational facilities. As we are working on a master plan for the Benedum Civic Center grounds. You will see movement on that facility in the very near future.”

How do you hope to promote business development?

“Promoting business development, you have to promote yourself (Bridgeport), from education, recreation opportunities and overall quality of life. The expansion and development of the North Central Regional Airport is so important to North Central WV and its regional impact. We will continue to work with and partner with the County Commission, Harrison County Chamber and other economic business development organizations.”