(Letter to the Editor - Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Of the 232 municipalities in West Virginia, Vienna consistently ranks at the top. (Vienna ranked #2 – Ten Best Cities to live in WV – 2024. https://tinyurl.com/bddyp58j).

Vienna’s success is not by accident. Mayor Randy Rapp’s leadership over the past 20 years has shaped that success and I join Melissa Elam in voting to reelect him in 2024.

A funny story illustrates a truth about leading a city. The late Councilman Roger Bibbee, in response to a comment about the public’s typically low interest in city affairs, said, “Average citizens don’t give a flippity-flip about what happens on City Council; they just want their toilets to flush and their water to run.” Mr. Bibbee understood that people are busy with their own lives and mostly just want to live in a safe, pleasant, and well-run city – a city like Vienna.

However, during election season, our citizens do need to focus their attention, if only briefly, on the choices for our elected officials. Casting an informed vote will assure us that Vienna will continue to run smoothly and efficiently under Mayor Rapp’s outstanding leadership.

Mayor Rapp, through decades of dedicated public service, has already improved the city in tangible, meaningful ways, all while maintaining one of the most financially sound cities in West Virginia. For example, our seniors enjoy living in a safe and pleasant city with above-average home values, a senior center second to none, many city-sponsored trips and events, and peace of mind in knowing that the city is always nearby to help.

In addition, under Mayor Rapp’s tenure, we have seen countless improvements to city facilities and amenities, including the pool, senior center gym, public works complex, police and fire improvements, and much more. His administration supports events and activities for citizens of all ages, making Vienna a safe, well-run and attractive place to live for families and retirees alike. He has also proven his mettle, leading us through the derecho, the C8 water crisis, and COVID-19, all while keeping essential services and emergency preparedness at the forefront.

Mayor Rapp has also laid the foundation for amazing opportunities for growth over the next four years.

To illustrate, new businesses are coming, the mall has expanded and Vienna is focusing on the need for new housing for young families. Johns Manville and Spencer’s Landing are in cue. WVUP is converting the OVU campus to the Innovation and Technology Center as a cornerstone of a new economic hub. A new school is coming. These are but a few of the abundant opportunities on Vienna’s horizon.

After eight years of serving alongside Randy Rapp, I can confidently say that his positive, proven leadership makes him the perfect choice for our city’s future. Please vote to re-elect Randy Rapp as our mayor.

Jim Leach

Parkersburg