By Toni Milbourne, The Journal
CHARLES TOWN, W.Va. — The Jefferson County Commission continues to meet and function with just four members, and the group is no closer to filling a vacancy than it was several weeks ago when it was determined that James Cook, who had been appointed as a temporary commissioner, was not qualified to accept the appointment on what was termed as a “permanent” basis.
Despite the governing body’s vote several months ago to appoint Cook as both temporary and permanent commissioner as a member of the Mountain Party, Cook was not eligible, as he had not been a registered member of the party for the time necessary, per West Virginia State Code.
Cook was appointed to replace Jennifer Krouse, who was removed from office earlier this year. Krouse was, at the time of her exit, a member of the Mountain Party, so a member of that party must be appointed to fill the seat until an election occurs.
Upon announcing that Cook was not eligible, the commission members took nominations of names of interested members of the Party but could not come to an agreement. Three individuals each received on vote, while Jane Tabb recused herself from voting, because her brother-in-law, David Tabb, was one of the contenders for the spot.
When the commission could not agree, the next course of action was for the county’s party executive committee to nominate three individuals from whom the commission could choose.
