Robert DeVaul County Commissioner

03/26/2026

Congratulations to Owen Hacker, Carter Long, Milo Pulice, Eli Hamrick, Christian Makon, Beau Hill, and Kane Marko on winning the 6th Grade Marion County Boys Basketball League Championship. Coming in as the 4th seed and finishing on top says everything about their toughness, growth, and belief in one another.

This team is the definition of balance and grit—led by Christian’s playmaking, Beau locking people down on defense, Carter owning the boards, big-time shooting from Owen and Kane, and strong, steady play from Eli and Milo. Every one of them played a role, and every one of them stepped up when it mattered most.

And I’ve got to say—the picture makes it even better. These guys saw our championship picture hanging on the wall… even though we didn’t play this year… and decided to let us know exactly how they felt about it 😂 That’s the kind of competitive fire you love to see.

Because of their effort, character, and what they represent, I’m proud to say this group will be recognized with a symbolic “Key to the County.” Not just for winning—but for how they did it.

I also want to recognize the tremendous showing by both East Fairmont and North Marion boys teams down in Charleston at the state tournament. The way they competed and represented Marion County on that stage is something we can all take pride in.

Moments like this remind us why it’s so important to invest in and support our youth. These kids are learning discipline, teamwork, accountability, and pride in where they come from. That matters far beyond the court.

The future is bright in Marion County.

03/22/2026

Coach Harbert and team,

On behalf of Marion County, I want to personally thank you, your staff, and every young man in your program for representing our community with pride this season. While the outcome of the state championship game didn’t fall our way, what your team accomplished speaks far beyond a final score.

In Marion County, we pride ourselves on hard work, resilience, and showing up for one another—and your team embodied every bit of that. From the first tip of the season to the final buzzer, your players competed with toughness, discipline, and heart. That’s who we are as a county. That’s what defines us.

Coming up short on the biggest stage is never easy, but there is honor in the fight, and there is respect earned in the way your team carried itself. You didn’t just play for a title—you represented families, schools, and a community that believes in grit, loyalty, and never backing down.

These young men gave this county something to rally around, something to be proud of, and memories that will last a lifetime. Championships are measured in banners, but legacies are measured in impact—and this team made a lasting impact on Marion County.

Hold your heads high. You made us proud.

With appreciation and respect,
Commissioner DeVaul

02/28/2026

Today I’ve been at North Marion High School watching youth championship games and middle school games, and the turnout has been incredible. There are so many kids and families here supporting our young athletes.

This is exactly why I continue to push for more recreational and community facilities in our county. We often hear people say that kids have changed or that there are more behavior issues but we also have to ask ourselves an important question: what opportunities and outlets are we giving them?

Access to gym time and safe spaces for sports and activities is already very limited here, and the demand keeps growing. I’m committed to doing everything I can to help create more space and more opportunities for our kids and families, because investing in them is investing in the future of our community.

02/06/2026

Proud moment for Marion County and the Town of Worthington.

I just received word from the Governor’s Office that Governor Morrisey has selected Marion County for an AMLER grant award — $1,250,000 for sewer upgrades in the Town of Worthington.

From my very first conversation with the Governor and members of his staff, I made one thing clear: Worthington needed help. I repeated it every chance I got.

I was there when Worthington flooded. I saw firsthand what residents were dealing with. I helped deliver supplies, talked with families, and promised them I wouldn’t stop pushing until real relief came.

This investment won’t erase everything the town has endured, but I truly hope it brings long-term relief, stability, and peace of mind to the people of Worthington.

This is what advocacy looks like — showing up, speaking up, and staying on it until something gets done.

More details will be released soon by the Governor’s Office, but today I’m grateful for progress and proud to stand with Worthington.

01/01/2026

As we close out 2025 and step into 2026, I want to take a moment to reflect and say thank you.

2025 was a year of hard work, progress, and resilience across Marion County. From supporting our communities and local businesses to investing in our future and showing up for one another when it mattered most, this year reminded me why I’m proud to serve as your County Commissioner.

What better way to ring in the New Year than right here in Mannington, celebrating a tradition that’s uniquely ours—the Pepperoni Roll Drop. Seeing families, friends, and neighbors come together with live music, food trucks, laughter, and local pride is exactly what makes Marion County special. Events like this aren’t just celebrations; they’re reminders of the strong community spirit that carries us forward.

As we head into 2026, I’m excited about what’s ahead. My commitment remains the same: to work hard, listen, and advocate for every corner of our county. Together, we’ll keep building a Marion County that honors its traditions while creating new opportunities for the next generation.

Thank you for trusting me with this responsibility. Here’s to a safe, healthy, and successful New Year for all.

Happy New Year, Marion County! 🎉
— Commissioner Robert DeVaul

12/25/2025

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas. Thank you for the opportunity to serve and may the season bring peace and joy to every home in our community. 🎄
— Commissioner DeVaul

12/18/2025

Busy day of work led to a night full of gratitude and reflection.

Like many families, this is one of the busiest times of the year—but tonight was a reminder of why it all matters.

The evening started with King’s basketball practice and some extra speed training. From there, I headed to Worthington and got to see what makes Marion County special: a community coming together, supporting one another, celebrating the Christmas spirit—and even a visit from Santa Claus.

Next stop was Barrackville, watching my middle son compete against Monongah. Then it was off to see my youngest put on a show with all the Pre-K kids in our community. I’m incredibly grateful for the educators and staff who pour so much into our children every single day.

From there, I walked across to the “Mike Parish” Gym—not officially named that yet, but it should be—to watch North Marion take on East Fairmont. Players, coaches, fans, and students all represented Marion County the right way. What a great atmosphere and a great night for our county.

Ended my night watching the Grinch with Zayna.

Now, I’ll complain just a little—because it matters.

We should be ashamed that in a county as strong and supportive as Marion, we still cannot provide adequate winter gym space for kids in Monongah and Barrackville to play the sports they love. Our kids deserve better.

When I first ran for office, I made a commitment to help solve the gym space problem in this county. That commitment hasn’t changed. I’m sticking to it—because our kids, our families, and our communities are worth it.

Proud to serve. Even prouder to be a dad.t

12/10/2025

As Commissioner, it’s an honor to recognize some incredible accomplishments across Marion County athletics.

First, congratulations to the East Fairmont Girls Soccer Team on an unbelievable back-to-back undefeated season and bringing home their 2x State Championship. Dominating from start to finish and allowing only two goals all year is a testament to your discipline, teamwork, and the pride you bring to East Fairmont.

I also want to congratulate Coach Hayes of North Marion High School on being named WVSSAC Coach of the Year and officially passing coaching legend Roy Michael for all-time wins. That’s not just a milestone — that’s a legacy.

And a big shoutout to the East Fairmont girls at Pleasant Valley Girls Basketball Team for bringing home the Marion County Championship! You represented your school and community with heart and hustle. Coach had fbe wring date down for the meeting… but don’t worry, the girls promised me they’ll make sure he runs a few “extra laps” at the next practice to make up for it.

Proud of our athletes, our coaches, and our community. Marion County continues to shine. ⭐️⚽️🏀 🏈

12/08/2025

12/06/2025

🎄 Christmas Toy Shop – Giving Back to Our Community 🎁

As your Commissioner, one of the greatest blessings of this job is getting to see the heart of Marion County up close. Today was another reminder of just how special this community is.

Our annual Christmas Toy Shop is more than toys on a table — it’s hope, dignity, and a reminder that no child in our county should go without a little Christmas magic. Watching families walk through, seeing the smiles, and witnessing neighbors helping neighbors is what this season is all about.

I’m incredibly grateful for the volunteers, local organizations, and donors who make this event possible. Your generosity directly impacts families who need it most, and you prove every year that Marion County shows up.

During the holidays, giving back isn’t just an act — it’s a responsibility. And I’m honored to do my part.

Wishing everyone a blessed, safe, and joyful Christmas season. ❤️💚

— Commissioner Robert DeVaul

11/27/2025

Tonight I’m reading the updates about the West Virginia National Guardsman who was shot, and the reports that she may not make it. It stops you in your tracks. A few nights ago my mom said something at Thanksgiving about hoping none of our chairs are empty next year… and that’s been sitting heavy with me ever since.

Moments like this remind you how fragile life is and how quickly a family’s world can be turned upside down.

My heart hurts for this Guardsman’s family, and for the family of the young man who was also shot. Two families facing unthinkable pain. I’m praying for strength, comfort, and peace for all of them.

As a community, we have to stand with these families, lift them up, and never take a single day or a single seat at our table for granted.

Commissioner DeVaul

11/21/2025

Today I had the honor of standing inside the Fairmont State University swimming facility — not just to celebrate a ribbon cutting, but to take in one of the most stunning murals in our community.

This artwork tells the story of Fairmont: our hills, our river, our bridges, our history, and the people who continue to move this city forward. It captures the pride we all share in this place we call home.

Fairmont State has once again shown what it means to invest in both education and community, creating spaces that inspire students and residents alike. Thank you to everyone who made this project possible.

Proud to see our hometown, our heritage, and our future reflected so beautifully on this wall.

— Commissioner DeVaul