THE MAYOR OF GROWTH

Patty Lewis

Mayor, The Town of Granville

SUPERPOWER: Working toward a common goal

When Patty Lewis settled in Granville with her husband—and lifelong town resident—Joe, she never dreamed she would one day be the mayor. Yet she has served as mayor of the Monongalia County community for 33 years. With about 2,000 residents, the town isn’t a big one, but it has accomplished great things.

The biggest project, Lewis says, was annexing and providing municipal services to the University Town Centre development, which is home to dozens of businesses: housewares, clothing, electronics, health and beauty, and discount stores, as well as super centers, restaurants, car dealerships, and more. “That did so much for our small community, and we’re now able to provide 24-hour police and fire protection for all businesses as well as our residents,” she says.

As the Granville welcome signs indicate, University Town Centre also includes Monongalia County Ballpark, home of the Black Bears MLB Draft League team. “We love the Black Bears. They’ve brought a lot of attention to us,” she says.

Before serving three decades as mayor, Lewis was payroll supervisor for Monongalia County Schools and then town recorder. “The previous mayoral candidate, Cara Sue Renner, asked me to consider the recorder position,” she says. “I’m a numbers girl, and I love working with budgets and finances.” When her predecessor decided not to run again, Lewis stepped up to keep things running cohesively. “I’ve been here ever since, and I love it,” she says.

Lewis feels fortunate to have worked with a strong City Council and a wonderful staff all the way around. She strives to ensure every department is connecting and working together to carry out the wishes of their elected officials. In August of this year, Lewis was named Mayor of the Year by the West Virginia Municipal League. At 72, she plans to run to retain her office in June 2025.

WRITTEN BY JULIE PERINE

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