County Council - Regular Meeting

Get back here.

Straighten up. And we are complete. We have our clerk. Thank you, Miss Hannah. Let's be called to order uh on for Tuesday, December 9th, 2025 Kershaw County Council meeting. Welcome everyone out. This is the last meeting of the year to conduct business for Kershaw County. We're so excited to have you here and glad to get it wrapped up and focus on some family time as well. Um I'll go ahead and offer an invocation and pledge of allegiance. [clears throat] Dear heavenly father, we thank thee for our many blessings. Please help us be humble during this holiday season. As we spend time with family and loved ones, please help us share fond moments, bury the hatchet on disagreements, and extend grace. Please help us have the wisdom that we need tonight to make good decisions for Kershaw County and its citizens. Please help us as we wrap up December. Look forward to a very prosperous and exciting and u spiritfilled 2026. We thank thee for thy son Jesus Christ during this Christmas season. We're grateful for our many blessings and the comforts that we enjoy. And we pray for those who might struggle or mourn that they might be comforted. And we say this in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Amen. I pledge algiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

All right, gentlemen. That takes us to item number four. And I want to make sure, do we have Mr. Tucker on the line? Yes, sir, you do. Okay. Great to have you, Sammy. And Mr. Jones will be here. He's a little bit late coming from another obligation, but he should be attending the meeting in person. Next up, it is item number four. Yes, sir. You're welcome. Next up on the uh agenda is item number four, adoption of the agenda. Do we have a motion? Mr. Chairman, I make a motion we adopt the agenda. Mr. Thompson has a motion. Is there a second? I'll second. We have a second from Mr. Kato. Any discussion, Mr. Thompson? None.

Seeing none, we'll have those who are in person and present voting first. All in favor, raise your hand on the agenda. It's unanimous. In favor for those who are present in voting, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? Yes. That is a yes from Mr. Tucker remotely. It passes unanimously, Miss Hannah. Next up, we have a proclamation um that I've placed on the agenda. This is regarding Mount Mariah Baptist Church. I make a motion that we approve this proclamation and would like to get a second so that I can share it before we vote. I'll make a motion.

Oh, I made the motion. You have a second. Mr. Shumake has a second. Okay. Um I just want to share this before we vote. Um if you could if you're here uh affiliated with the church or in support tonight, would you mind raising your hand? I know we had a few folks here. You can stand up either way. My knees are kind of getting brittle from athletic days. So least number of times I need to stand. That's good. But thank you so much for being here tonight. I'm going to go ahead and share this. Um the proclamation is whereas Mount Mariah Baptist Church in Camden, South Carolina is celebrating its 160th anniversary on January 25, 2026, communities and congregations from all over South Carolina are coming together to help celebrate this memorable occasion. Whereas throughout its history, the mission and activities of Mount Mariah Baptist Church has served the community, renovating and enhancing the ministries as well as a building to accommodate the needs of the church family, friends, and neighbors. And whereas our entire community has benefited from the charity and influence of this church uh that they've exerted through the years and the many facets of its outreach and practical assistance to the needy. And whereas Mount Mariah Baptist Church has become an enduring presence in the community, expanding its programs and ministries to promote the ever growing spiritual needs and outreach efforts of its members. And whereas Mount Rise Baptist Church [clears throat] and his congregation are commemorating 160 years of spiritual worship, education, fellowship, and faith guided by this year's 2026 theme, which is celebrating 126 years of faith, fellowship, and forward visions. Whereas, it is a pleasure to extend this expression of our esteem and best wishes to the members of the Mount Mariah Baptist Church congregation on this memorialable memorable memorable occasion on the 106th 160th anniversary. Now therefore, I, Jay Ben Connell, Kershaw County Council Chairman, hereby honor and congratulate Mount Mariah Baptist Church on its 160th anniversary coming up in the new year. In witness whereof, I have set my hand below to sign. And we have um we have that document and framing up here for

you. Council members, any uh comments or discussion before we vote? Any questions? I'll just say personally, I've witnessed this church serve alongside uh many others and serve individually in the community and I'm extremely grateful for it and this opportunity to recognize you before the year closes out. Any other comments or discussion? Mr. Tucker. Oh, let's go ahead Mr. Tucker remotely. Go ahead, Sammy.

Okay. I say I can yield. Not sure who's in the audience, but I'm pretty sure it's probably Hessie and Miss Francis and others. But I want to say uh thank you to Mont Mariah because um the doors have been open to I mean any and everybody. Um this is how the uh soup kitchen was formed which um it's not 160 years old but they've got a long running with their soup kitchen and helping feeding the needy here in Kershaw County and who all shows up. But remarkable work from remarkable people and uh they have been a cornerstone in Kershaw County, Candon, South Carolina uh for 160 years, I can assure you. But thank you to not only them but the congregation and all the members.

Yes, sir. Thank you, Mr. Tucker. Uh Mr. Brazzle. Yeah. I'd just like to also extend my congratulations to to you fine folks in your church and uh spreading the good word of Jesus Christ in in our community here in Kershaw County. Congratulations. Thank you very much, Mr. Brazzle. With that, we'll move it to a vote. All who are present in favor, raise your hand if you And it is uh unanimous in favor. For those who are present in voting, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote remotely? I vote for myself and Mr. Jones. Yes,

he I'm sure I'm sure Jimmy would be in favor. He'll be here soon enough and I'm sure we'll hear about it in his council briefings. It passes unanimously. [laughter] Miss Hannah, thank you so much. Uh if those who are here in support and participating, if you'd like to come up, we can do a quick picture and we'd be glad to hear from you. Um any comments you might have [clears throat] Come on. Right here. This is my wife.

[clears throat]

I thank uh the council for their vote. I thank uh each and everyone. Uh if you don't know about Mount Mariah, Mount Mariah is will turn to be 160 years old. and we have been feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and making the stranger feel welcome in the gate. I'm so proud to be the pastor there uh so far for about two years. So, I want to thank God for Mount Mariah and the people that help make things happen. And thank you so much, Miss Anne Davis. Amen. I thank you so much. We are blessed and we are honored. Thank you once again.

Thank you, PASTOR. [applause] We're proud to have you in the community. That's for sure. Gentlemen, next up on the agenda is item number six, public comments. Mr. Deose.

Mr. Chair, we have uh two speakers signed up. Um they are signed up somewhat conjunctively and concurrently. The listing on the public sign-in sheet is Pastor Steve Lee with Leon Proer. Um, chairman Alpha Center board of directors. Um, and the discussion topic is ordinance THC and CBD. Um, I think as parliamentarian, uh, your discretion whether those are two separate public comment sections with their own time limits or Well, I'm going to leave it up to the gentleman. Do you just need one speaker or you have two? Just one. So that that settles it. No parliamentarian needed. Um yes sir, please come up.

Good evening everyone and thank you for [clears throat] allowing my comments. My name is Stephen Lee. I'm the pastor at Mount Olivet P Baptist Church. Actually I'm a co-pastor. I gave myself a demotion earlier this year and I'm now a co-pastor along with two fine young men. I also am on the board of the Alpha Center. And I want to bring to all of our attention the growing concern in our community of the rapid rise of legal THC products being sold in gas stations and vape shops. These products fall into a gray area created by the 2018 Farm Bill. And although they are marketed as legal and safe, the reality is very different. Unlike medical cannabis, products sold in gas stations and vape shops are not tested for potency or consistency. This means that one gummy or vape might hit mildly while the very next could be extremely strong even for the same package. Uh the companies are using a loophole created by the 2018 federal farm bill. The bill legalized hemp defined as cannabis containing less than.3% delta 9 THC though. But companies quickly learned they could extract and chemically convert hemp derived cannibal cannibaloids. I'm not saying that right, but forgive me. Into products like delta 8, delta 10, THCA, and HHC and others that still produce a very strong high. Because these products technically come from hemp, companies market them as legal, even though the effects can be as potent as traditional marijuana. This loophole has created an entire industry of intoxicating products sold in gas

stations and vape shops with little or no oversight. Unlike regulated medical cannabis, these hemp derived products are not required to be tested for potency, contaminants, or consistency. That means one gummy might be mild, the next extremely strong, even from the same package. We also see THC potency skyrocket in these products. Years ago, marijuana typically was 1 to 5% THC. Today, edibles, vapes, and concentrates made from hemp derivatives can reach 20%, 50%, and even 90% THC, dramatically increasing the risk. These higher potencies are unlike are linked to anxiety, psychosis, rapid heart rate, and overdose-like reactions. This legal THC is not just weed like hippies got high on in the 60s and 70s. And when pro products this potent are easily accessible in gas stations and vape shops, often with unclear age requirements or minimal ID checks, it creates a serious risk for our young people whose developing brains are far more valuable than these highintensity TH to to these highintensity THC effects. For young people whose brains are developing, these high potent substances have long have long-term impact and on memory, attention, decision making, and medical attention. Edible pose edibles also pose uh additional dangers because the effects are delayed. People often take more before the first dose has fully kicked in leading to accidental over intoxication. And although these products are said to are often sold as legal, they can still trigger a positive THC drug screen,

standard test cannot differentiate between delta 8, delta 9, and other hemp derived THC analoges. And speaking off the cuff, I received uh notice from the concerned clergy today that there was there have been a a mass of raids on these shops because of the selling of these products to underage u people. Um, as a pastor and as a board member of the Alpha Center, I can tell you what we need in this county and what we need in this state is not more drugs, not more easily accessible products, not sometimes drugs that are hide as hidden as candy and kids can't tell the difference or maybe they can. But um we would like to speak to that and say that we would we would hope that our county council and all of our state officials would oppose any more expansion of this uh type thing. Thank you. Thank you, sir, for coming out tonight. Appreciate that. Um that concludes public comments. Is that correct, Mr. Devos?

Correct. All right. I'm going to vary the agenda just a little bit under chairman's prerogative. I see some folks we have in the crowd with some items we could take care of before having to wait the entire meeting and they're generally quick. We'll vary by taking the appointments 12A and B. This would be a comm planning commission appointment and um clean community commission appointment. We'll move those up to the current portion of the meeting and then we'll get back on the agenda as set. So that takes us to item number 12 A, planning commission district number five, placed on by Councilman Brandt Tomlinson. Mr. Chairman, I um make a motion that we appoint Christopher Stfella to as the planning commission appointment for district 5. Okay. Is there a second?

I'll second. Got a second from Mr. Kato. Any discussion, Mr. Tomlinson? Um Christopher has been in the community a couple years now. Um willing really willing and eager to serve. He's an engineer by trade. Um, and him and I have gotten to know each other over the past couple years and I feel like he'd be a great asset to our planning commission. Um, and he's appreciate [clears throat] his willingness to serve. Thank you, Mr. Tomlinson. Mr. Kato, you had the second. Any discussion? No. Council members, any discussion, comments, or questions for those who are present?

Thank you, Mr. Shake. Um, Mr. Tucker, anything remotely? I just wanted to say uh as Councilman Thomasson has said, thank you for willing to serve and um appreciate only being here just a couple of years jumping in full force. Thank you, Councilman Tucker. With that, we'll move it to a vote. We'll do those in person first. Those in favor uh who are present, raise your hand. It's unanimous in favor. For those who are in person, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote remotely? Yes. That is a yes remotely from Mr. Tucker. It's unanimous as Hannah on 12A. That takes us to number 12. Yes, sir. Mr. Tucker, be

before we go to 12B, [clears throat] just wanted to put council on notice that I will have um a reappointment for my district in our January meeting, first meeting in January. Okay, we'll look to Miss Hannah to make sure the application's in the U packet. Or maybe you said reappointment. I couldn't quite hear you. I did. I did. Either way, we'll take care of that. Thank you. Thank you. That takes us to item number 12B placed on by Councilman Shoemake Clean Community Commission. Danny Kato. Mr. Kato.

Mr. Chair, I do have a motion. This motion will come in the form of a slate appointment motion. Uh meaning that we have four individuals that we would like to to nominate at one time. Um if that's okay with the dice. This will be for the clean community commission. The first will be a Connor Rome from district two. The say and if and if these people are in the audience, please stand. Miss Virginia Long, a Danielle Presner and that's district six and Jennifer Brham which would be the Elgen appointment. This would fulfill the the commission the clean commission list. Um, and these individuals has been strongly discussed with the chairperson, Miss Jill Wolf. She has played a major part in uh helping us fill this this list, this commission. And uh, these are our recommendations.

Would you say the names one more time so we can get you a second? Connor Rome, Virginia Long, Daniel Presner, and Jennifer Brham. Thank you. Is there a second? Second. Mr. Schumick has a second. Any further discussion? These all these All these all these I'm sorry. Go ahead, Danny. All these individuals have come highly recommended. Again, Miss Jill Wolf, the chairperson of this commission has really played a large part and I appreciate I just want to say thank you to her for the work that she she does with this commission and the time she puts into it and um I know she'll be extremely happy to get this commission filled.

Yeah. Between this and the river cleanup, I don't know how many tons the Wolf family is responsible for helping [laughter] clean up in Kershaw County. It's amazing. Um, Mr. Shoemaker, you have the second. Yeah. Again, can't not reiterate the appreciation for Jill Wolf, who I believe is back there. Yeah. So, Miss Wolf is here with us. And, uh, just uh, you know, Connor, I haven't met you yet, but I will tell you uh, Connor, as I understand it, is relatively new back to the area. Citadel grad, correct? graduated the Citadel and has eagerly reached out to ask to be of service and immediately agreed to do this. And so I very much look forward to seeing all the things Connor will do on this commission and what I suspect will be many other service opportunities in the county. So thank you both for being here tonight and I look forward to working with you guys.

Thank you. Mr. um Tucker, you had the floor next.

Yes, sir. Thank you. And I'm sorry to jump the gun there, gentlemen. Um I just want to say because um this this is how this commission got um done in the past as well. Um certain commissions like the clean community commission and we have a few others. We have to pick the people that's willing to serve so the the commission can do their job. So, don't get bit out of shape if you can't find someone from your area because for me, for my district, which I know there's one in there. Um, I want good people versus just having someone to represent district 2. They're not willing to put in the time and willing to do the work. What What good are they holding the position? So, um it may get a little wacky moving forward, but I want to thank Miss Jill Wolf for coming up with a good slate of um candidates um for us uh to approve. But I I want to also put council on notice is more putting good people than it is having representation sometimes.

Thank you, Mr. Tucker. Any other comments or questions, council members? Seeing none, we'll move to a vote for those who are present. All in favor, raise your hand on the slate. It's unanimous in favor for those who are present. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? Yes, Miss Hannah. That is a yes remotely from Mr. Tucker. Thank you. Thanks again, guys. Appreciate it. Thank you so much. Appreciate y'all being here tonight. All right. That moves us to back on the agenda. Item number 7A. This is fiscal year 2425 audit presentation placed on by the administrator, Mr. Templer.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, members of council. We have Mark Wood here tonight for the presentation of our annual audit. This is uh something we always do. We try to get it in by the end of the year. So, if Mark would come up and give us the news. All right, let's uh we've heard the background for it. Let's go ahead and move it to a vote for public presentation. I'll make the motion. Is there a second? I'll second. We got a second. Any discussion? Seeing none, we'll move it to a vote. Those who are present in favor on the public presentation, raise your hand. It's unanimous in favor for those who are present. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? Yes. Thank you, Miss Hannah. For the record, it passes. And Mr. Wood,

thank you, Chairman McConnell and members of council. It's a pleasure to be here tonight to uh go over the 63025 audit summary. Everybody should have this audit summary in front of you. So, that's what we'll go through. Uh there al there's also a letter attached to this. Uh this is just a communication letter uh that's required under our standards and it basically just says that um there were no new policies that the county adopted, no difficulties encountered during the audit. Um no disagreements with management. So like I said, it's it's just required communication that we're that we are have to give in our standards. Um, the county once again received an unmodified opinion. That just means a clean opinion on your financial statements. Number one, we we've gone through this enough. I don't think I need to spend any time. It just gives you a breakdown of how the audit reports laid out. So, I'll go through two, three, and four. I'll do general fund and then I'll go back to the proprietary fund. And I'll also give you page numbers in case you want to go and look at the detail later of uh how these numbers are derived. The total assets for the general fund as of 63025 were 53.7 million. Total liabilities and deferred inflows were 37.5. So your fund balance is a little over $16 million. Uh that's made up of some non-spendable. That's your prepaid expenses. Small amount restricted. Council has committed fund balance of 7.6 million and [clears throat] your unassigned is 8.5. Uh you can find the information if you want to look and see the specifics of what's been committed. And the total

assets, if you want to see the details, that's on page 16 of the report. Total revenues were 28.3 million. Total expenditures were a little over 25 million and you had transfers and other financing sources of of 4.4 negative. And so your negative change in fund balance for 63025 was $1.1 million. You can find that on page 18. Um, but I do want to mention that council had budgeted last year to spend $4.9 million of your fund balance reserves and so you only spent 1.1. So you were $3.8 million to the good that you ended up not having to spend. Okay? And we'll kind of get into that when we talk about the budget of of why that is. Once again, uh that information is on page 18 of the report proprietary funds. So this is a combination. So if you want to see how sewer and EMS did individually, you can look on page 20, but total assets and total deferred outflows were 52.1 million. Liabilities and deferred inflows were 8.3 million. So your net position, that's your equity, is $43.8 8 million. Now that's made up of majority of that is your capital assets. So that's 33.2 million restricted $679,000 and your unrestricted uh net position for both funds is 9 almost $9.9 million. Total revenues 11.8 million. Expenditure is 11.5.

Uh, and then you've also got transfers and other sources. What this what the majority of this is is your skip grant. And I know this is a little strange, but because of the way our accounting standards are, anytime you have a capital grant, it gets recognized as revenue and you book an asset. And as you depreciate that asset over its useful life, that's when you recognize that expense. Okay? So, it's it's only a presentation uh the way that this has got to be shown, but the change in net position was a little over $2 million. That information can be found on page 21 of the report. Getting into your budget, uh this starts on page 65 to 72. So you can actually go through and look at the different areas, but your revenues exceeded budget by almost $1.7 million. The [snorts] expenditures were under budget by 2.2 and your transfers were over budget by 5 million. So, what I was getting at when I was saying that you had budgeted $4.9 million of spending your reserves, the reason you didn't have to spend that much was revenues exceeded budget and your expenditures were under budget. So, that's how you were able to not use as much reserves as what you had budgeted for. Um, once again, there's no findings uh this year. Um, I would like to thank Sandra and the finance staff for all their hard work and um, once again, you know, your your finance director wrote the audit report and so um, I would just like to give her congratulations and as we uh, I come in and we we put them through the ringer

for about two weeks up here and I ask for a lot of information and um, they're very very easy to work with and and the administrator as Well, too. So, I just I just want to thank them for all their hard work. And with that, I'm done. And I'm happy to answer any questions if anybody's got anything. Thank you, Mr. Wood, for um the packet staff to helping prepare this. Well, as well, any questions or comments from council members? Mr. Chairman, if I may. Mr. Brazzle. Hey, welcome Mark. Good to see you. Good to see you.

I appreciate the job that you do um and and that our staff does here. We've always had positive reporting and positive findings in uh in our audits. Um this year it looks especially um positive in the fact that um we Kershaw County received $1.7 million more than it spent in the general fund. Um out of all all three of our funds, all the findings were positive and none negative. Is that correct? That's correct. in terms of positive cash flow and um more more revenue than spending. Correct. That's right.

Um we've done this in the past and we've we've made headway. I know that there's a budget line item. I think it's maybe $600,000 every year that covers uh debt. Is that right? Yes. Amount a certain amount of money that's committed to old bonds. Bonds that were maybe 2015,

some older than that. So what I think has done in the past is anytime there's been a surplus, I think the last couple years there's been a concerted effort not only from council but from administrative side and finance side is to start paying some of these bonds off and and y'all have done that aggressively. Um, if you look at page, let me get to the page here. [snorts] If you look at page 47 in of your report under the business type activities, so these are the sewer bonds, your 2008A um and I've I've discussed this with with administration and with finance, but my suggestion is is you would try to eliminate the 2008A go bond during the 26 fiscal year. You can see that your ending balance is about $790,000. You've got to make a payment of $435. So, I would say if there's any surplus that you would go ahead and and knock that bond out. Um, and then you can start on the SRF. You can't do anything with the 2021 bonds yet in the general fund. um you have a 10-year uh prepayment issue.

What's the penalty for prepayment? They will not allow you to do it period. There is no penalty. They [snorts] just said you can't do it period. And that's been that's been confirmed by the bonding agencies. So, you can't make a prepayment on those 2021 bonds until 2031.

Interesting. Um Okay. Well, I appreciate the recommendation. I'd like to make that recommendation to our finance committee um per per your recommendation and to our administration um prior to moving into next year's budget cycle. Certainly with a with a necessary payment of $435,520 um there's no need to to not pay the other $350,000 roughly. Um, and that would free up $435,000 worth of capital in 2028. Is that right? It would free it up in 2027. I'm saying pay it off in the fiscal year in 27. Yes, that would free that up.

Perfect. Was Was that not our intention? I I think I think that is the intention. I just wanted to I haven't heard anything I just haven't heard anything about that. I think that that's pretty I appreciate you bringing that up, Mr. Brazzle. Yeah. Well, we we've done good work. I think we've all we've all pushed this and damaged. Y'all have y'all been aggressively paying some of these bonds off and anytime that there's been surplus for the last I think three years now, y'all have made extra payments on some of these bonds to get them paid off.

Well, I think done a good a good job. No question about that. And then the only one we would have left that we could that we could aggressively pay off before 2031 is the SRFGO bond for 3.1 million. That's correct. Okay. Thank you. I appreciate it. I'll come visit with you to talk more in depth in private and I look forward to it. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Brazzle. Uh any other comments or questions in person before we go remote to Mr. Tucker? Mr. Tucker, any questions or comments? Uh, no sir, Mr. Chair. Thank you. Just appreciate what they did. Thank you. Uh, Mr. Tucker, Mr. Administrator, any other follow-up before we move on,

Mark. Appreciate you again. All right. Thank you'all. I may, Mr. Chair, sir. I just like to say I apologize for being late. Welcome. Thank you, but it's good to be here, Mark. Great job. All right, gentlemen. That takes us to item number uh 7B placed on the agenda by Vice Chairman Russell Brazzle in relation to dees. Mr. Brazzle, you have a motion. Thank you. Yes, sir. Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion to welcome um Miss Mer Ree, Jill Stewart, and David Vaughn uh to come and and give all the council a presentation. All right. Do we have a second? I'll second.

Mr. Shumake has got the second. Is there any other discussion or questions? Seeing none, we'll move it to a vote. For those who are present, all in favor, raise your hand. It's unanimous in favor for those who are present. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote remotely? Yes. It's a yes from Mr. Tucker. Remotely, Miss Hannah, it's unanimous. Yes, ma'am. Please. Good evening, Mr. Chairman and members of the council. Thank y'all so much for giving us an opportunity to spend some time with you uh this evening. And I want to begin by introducing a couple of my leaders. Um this is part of my a team that I have with the new department. First is David [clears throat]

Y'all know David locally. He is our compliance assistance liaison and also Jill Stewart who has some connections to this area. I can't hear. I guess she's back in the mic. I'm sorry. Just take that thing and pull it over to Here we go. Um I had just introduced David Vaughn. You may know David. Um he's the um our compliance assistance liaison. And also Jill Stewart is with me tonight. um she works with me as the director of permitting support. So, um they're going to be sharing a little bit of information a little bit later, but I wanted to kind of, you know, set the foundation for why we're here tonight and kind of give you an off offer for consideration. Yes, sir.

Excuse me. Give me your title again. Exactly. What do you do? Yes, sir. I'm sorry. So, I'm Myra Reese and I'm the director of the newly created Department of Environmental Services. Mhm. Congratulations.

Yes, sir. Yes, sir. And you may you may recall, I mean, that was a a pretty significant state decision um separating DHAC and forming a new public [clears throat] health agency, a new department of environmental services. And I've been very fortunate. I'm um have the best team in the world. And certainly along with a new agency, we had a new vision for this agency. And one of the things that I have really been focusing on is our uh partnerships with local government. I really feel like we serve the same communities. We work on the same issues. We work on storm water, solid waste, uh drinking water, all of the infrastructure um issues that might be things that we need to be working collaboratively with as we experience growth and and the county and the state um see great things coming in. So, we want to um set up a pilot um to really work um very collaboratively with the county and um we just felt like Kershaw would be a great opportunity and um I've got a team of folks that are going to be a resource for you guys if you're interested. Um, but one thing I have been doing is going around to a lot of counties talking about the challenges with storm water, especially if a county has a certain area of their county that's an MS4, and then part of it is not, and just a lot of questions and a lot of clarity that's that has been requested because of what's required at the federal level, the state level, and the local level. So tonight, what we thought we would do is just kind of just kind of plant a seed a little bit with storm order. Um, but we look forward um to continuing the conversation with Kershaw if y'all are interested. We have many things we could talk about. Um, and we would we'd be

open to having a retreat and really just talking about all the many things that I know that y'all think about and you demonstrate leadership on a daily basis. So, with that, I'm going to ask Jill to come up and um kind of give you a quick uh rundown of storm water, see if you have any questions, and then if there's anything um else for us.

If I may, just briefly before Jill gets started, I'd like to thank you for being here. Uh Councilman Jones, you noted um she was she was shy to tell us who she was. She took time out of a very big busy schedule to be here in Kershaw County. She's the director um confirmed director of department of environmental services and she's done us a great favor by being here. She's been so helpful to me and the ability to partner with a state agency. This is something big for Kershaw County and this is positive. the conversations that she and I have had regarding how to how to have a solution for an issue versus the threat or the fear of of a fine or pending fine for Kershaw County is phenomenal. I mean, this is just the way state and local government should work together. And I just really thank you for being here tonight. Um,

second that. Thank you. I I can't I can't sing your praises high enough. And I do I thank you for being here and I thank Jill and David for being here tonight as well. But I couldn't I couldn't let you go without me saying that. Yes, ma'am.

Thank you, Myra. I appreciate that. Um and um what I'm going to do, you've all have got the complete presentation tonight and I may breeze over a couple of of slides to remain succinct and within time. But um before I came to work with Myra about a year ago um working more broadly with our agency, I led our storm water permitting program at the state for about 22 years. Um and in that time, um spent many opportunities traveling the state and presenting on topics to county councils as as they're making decisions that are right when it comes to storm water permitting at the local level because we do know y'all are are are very much the front runner and front line when it comes to development in in your areas. really kind of want to highlight a couple of objectives tonight is really to help you understand your responsibilities that that stem from from federal storm water rules, how we as a state play into that um and then what are your responsibilities um from the our state and federal storm water regulations. And then we're going to talk about this little dichotomy we have with inside and outside this term MS4. And if you haven't heard that that acronym before, it's municipal separate storm sewer system. And it originates from the fact that here in the southeast, sanitary sewer and storm sewer aren't mixed in together. If you go up north, they have a lot of what are called csos where they're combined together. So here we keep clean water clean and then the other water it it goes to other places. So, um, and then certainly any questions you may have, we're happy to answer those. So, when it comes to storm water permitting, um, dees is kind of the nexus for our state. We have regulations

that flow to us from the Clean Water Act and from Congress and EPA, and those are called NPDS, which is National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System. We also have a set of state regulations that were brought um and promulgated by our general assembly about the same time as our federal regulations. And with those state regulations, they're focused more on how much runoff. And we'll go into um kind of the different aspects of storm water as we go through this this the this slide deck. So if we talk about federal to state to local, um most of what your experience in as an MS4 is going to stem from from federal. So the Clean Water Act was passed in the 1970s. And the intent of it is to restore and maintain the the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of our nation's waters. And the picture that you see up top is the Kyahoga River um in Ohio, which caught um fire more than one time in the 1960s. The bottom picture, Myra alluded to my connection to Kershaw County. That's Lake Watery. Um my family and I have had a a a spot up on that beautiful lake since the 1960s. And so personally, keeping it clean and having the privilege to serve the state of South Carolina to keep it clean is is has means the world to me.

If I could point of order, Mr. Chairman, to me, this is a vital thing that we got going on with the MS4 areas and the storm water areas. And we don't have anybody from administration in here right now, and I would like our administration to hear this. Um, Mr. Jones, we had a a general work session previously where the same information was shared. I'm not sure if the administrator uh felt sick or had to use the restroom or No, no, no. I'm not condemning. I'm just saying there's no one in here from the administration. Uh largely the same slides have been heard by the administrator and we have copies of them. Okay. Already. This is this is the public sharing of the same information. Okay. Thank you for including me in the public part of it. Yeah. And he's back.

And he's back. Yeah. Did I miss something? No.

So, when we talk about MPDS and storm water, there really are four distinct areas that we regulate storm water. We regulate it from construction activities. So, you want to if you need to build everything from a Dollar General to a scout motor plant in Richland County, you got to get a storm water permit if you're disturbing more than an acre for that construction activity. We regulate storm water from certain industrial activities, concrete plants, um, industries, others that have products that if it gets mixed with storm water could impact our our state's water quality. And then lastly is our municipal separate storm shore systems. Um, and that is what M Kersaw County is permitted as. So MS4s if we zoom down into South Carolina and these regs are replicated across the nation. So MS4s are any cities, counties, military installations or public institutions. The way that we identify what parts of a state or what parts of uh a a a geographical area are in Miss Forge are by the census. So each time the federal government puts on a census, we look at the population boundaries and the regulations say that if you have an urbanized area, then we have to issue a permit for storm water quality to the government who's operating and responsible for for regulation to some for lack of a better word in that area. In South Carolina, we have 82 MS4s. So again, that can be cities, that can be counties, um even Clemson University because they own their own storm sewer system is an MS4. And right now, our boundaries are still based on the 2020 2010 census. They'll

be um working to reissue a new permit and updating some of those boundaries across the state where we've seen some really expansive growth. Do you have a um kind of an estimate on when those will be updated? Um are we looking at with then by the next census? So we have the maps. Okay.

It's just that we can't until we get out a new permit. We can't enforce those new boundaries. So that's a tool through which we will expand boundaries throughout the state. We're adding a couple new MS4s down along the coast. Um, but certainly our staff would could work with you and your your staff to understand what how how growth has impacted you here in Kershaw County.

And you'll see in just a minute how um the level at which we these maps are derived. But I think most people if you work around development, what you see is the that when you hear storm water programs, you think about construction site runoff. You think about post construction runoff. But what you as MS4s have to do is to really kind of look at the big picture. You've got to work to make sure you're educating your citizens um about the impacts that they have on water quality through the public education and outreach. Certainly the the work of the the your clean committee in litter control that's an example of you implementing as an MS4 whether you've made the nexus or not that is public involvement that is working to to remove s pollution before it reaches our waterways. A couple of the other elements that MS4s must deal with is elicit discharge detection and elimination. So mapping your storm sewer system and making sure somebody's dryer or water washer line and tied to it. Um and then lastly would be pollution prevention for your own facilities. So keeping your own house in order. But I think a lot of what we hear in a state particularly a growing state like South Carolina really focuses on development. So when it comes to development, um, MS4s are required to through the permits to have ordinances where you review storm water plans for land development. You have to have inspectors to go and inspect those sites when they're under active construction. Um and then you

have to have the mechanisms to take um compliance action or do enforcement when the operator of a construction site isn't following your ordinances. Um and again we we have incorporated into that some of our statewide standards for storm water management and sediment erosion control. Well, we talk about MS4.

What about outside MS4? um when we go to outside if you I've got a slide for that if you'll if you'll bear with me a little bit. Um [snorts] so really it's within the MS4 you are mandated to do these six things to have your program built around that. If you hold that thought um our state rules provide a mechanism called delegation and what when those rules were written they foraw that some counties might want to implement a local storm water program. So they set a a mechanism to do it countywide and we had probably eight or 10 counties before the MS4 program came along which was and that MS4 program was in the early 2000s. So before that we had Richland County and York County and Lexington County that were running a storm water program countywide. [snorts] Now they didn't have to do elicit discharge detection. They didn't have to do public education and outreach, but they did have to do the plan review and the inspection and the um here's my slide. Um so we'll get to that. Um

sorry, I didn't mean for that to be so loud, but that was just a reminder to me. Gentlemen, I'd seek a motion to extend under our rules. Yeah, I'll [snorts] make a motion to extend. All right. Is there a second? Thank you. All in favor present. We'll extend under the rules. Mr. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? Yes. All right. Public presentation continues. Thank you.

So, let let's talk about what that boundary looks like and how big it is. So, if you look these maps, so in Kershaw County, you only have a very little narrow band that meets the census definition of an urbanized area. And we as a state can't force you to expand it largely. We can bump those out a little bit by watersheds or other factors. Sometimes maybe there's a road if you look at the the other the parcel scale. Um sometimes we said, "Okay, you know, maybe that census map cut the parcel in half. Let's bring it to roads because when you're reviewing development plans, it makes it easier and more streamlined to implement your program." So in in Kershaw County in particular, I'm pretty sure you've got the smallest maybe Darlington portion of the county per overall percentage that's covered under your MS4 permit. And and it's not unusual. Lancaster County where I'm from, same issue is that up in that Indian Charlotte area is where they have MS4 and south of Lancaster is is not. But there are options. And I know that we've had a lot of sites over the years where there's it's hard to help people understand if you're talking to a a developer and you're trying to determine who you need to submit a permit to and what the rules are that one parcel could be different than the other and who's going to inspect it. So, it's it can be quite logistically challenging. So when it comes to within the MS4 and outside of it, I I created this slide

that really kind of tells the different and what you must do and what you may do. So having local ordinances for storm water, Kershaw County must do that within the MS4 area and that pertains to development, elicit discharge detection, um post construction, construction runoff, um when it comes to the site scale, when you're reviewing development plans, you have to have the staff and you have to have the inspectors to review those before they're approved and then to inspect them as they're undergoing construction. That's a musto from both the construction site runoff and post construction site runoff control. Um but if the county were to select the option of expanding the program a little larger, you would be the ones taking the lead for that. Now, there is another little kink in that that they're still going to have to come to dees um for so every construction site once they come through you, we have a a big statewide storm water permit and we have to give them a permit under that um for a construction site operators. Now, when you've got an MS4 that's your lead in permitting, if you are Acme Development and you're building uh a new warehouse here in Kershaw County right now, Acme would send their development plans to Kershaw County. Kershaw County would review them, issue a local approval. When it came to us, it would be an administrative review. It's essentially a rubber stamp and and EPA won't let us pass that down further. We've we've we've asked, but we can't do that. Well, if Ame development is working outside your MS4 area, then I think I'm pretty sure y'all got some other county

ordinances that may deal with land development and and other concerns. Uh, and what we see a lot of times is ACME would have to submit a plan to Kershaw County, get those approved, but then they have to submit that plan to us for a a storm water permit as well. Um, and and again, we have to issue the MPDS permit. So, I'm going to pause right there because I know that's that's confusing. Um, it it took me

No, it leads me to have some questions, but I'm going to yield to my colleagues and see what they got to say. So, if if we just want to take a little quick uh Q&A um for points of clarification, um if if we have an industrial site or commercial site that's outside of the MS4, um we be tasked as the county with um approving the construction process and we can utilize dees um as an agency to help us in a in an assist to um regulate storm water. And that's something that we wouldn't have to do at that in that scenario. If you're outside this of an MS4 area, we already are doing it, right?

So, we are reviewing for storm water runoff from pre-develop looking at how much does it increase for development to postdevelopment. We're looking at water quality. We are not looking at the sizing of any of the internal pipes and drainage in those. Um, we don't look at I know a lot of counties the standards for sizing of of drainage and roads is is done at the um count. We don't do any of that. So, we don't have statewide standards for for covert sizing. So, we wouldn't do any of that. But, yeah, it still right now comes through through us when it's outside of that kind of musto area. [clears throat] Now, if if Kershaw County uh reviews the plans, um if our ordinance says that that it must comply to our standards equal to the inside of MS4, is that all of a sudden MS4 is kind of applied countywide at that point?

No. What you would do is you would essentially submit a uh a request for uh the way that it's written in the state regs is you request delegation. So you could come to us with an a pro with a a proposal and say, you know what, we're going to review plans. We're going to do inspections just like we're doing in the MS4 area. And in essence, we would hand over the reigns and say, yeah, we we trust you. You're doing it right. We would review that. And essentially, that's the form delegation is the formal way in which we hand over the reigns. So that is a process that we've done in like Newberry County has been delegated to run the state storm water program for about 15 years. Town amongst Corner, they know they're going to be an MS4. So they went ahead and because they wanted to control the development process, they sought delegation of that state stormwater program. So now if you're doing work in Monk's Corner, you go to Monk's Corner. They're not an MS4 yet. they likely will be in this next round. Um, but they saw it as a benefit for their citizens to to bring about that option.

One one quick question. So, say the RMS4 is expanded. Now, are if it expands to a certain area where there are businesses that have that are now within that MS4, there's neighborhoods that are now within that MS4 through the expansion, are they grandfathered in to the old or would they then so so say that you know, you mentioned your uh washing machine drain being hooked up to storm water, right? Say we have a lot of that in a in an area that's been taken in. what what are what would be the methods for it and who would be responsible ultimately for that since it's now within MS4.

So if if that were the case, you would then the first step would be you would have to map your your storm sewer system in that area. The permit, the way it's written right now, says, "Okay, once you expand your area, or even if you um annex a larger area, a neighborhood, that you're given a period of time with which to to map that area, see where the pipes are, do some sampling and identify that. But it would be expected for elicit discharge detection and elimination. you would have be expected to have to do that in so Kersaw County would be responsible for

Kersaw if that one but for instance um like pond maintenance detention pond maintenance if that site was permitted 15 years ago you wouldn't be expected to make sure they maintain their storm water system the permit kind of teases out different aspects be based upon when the permit was granted yeah it would be based on when or who reviewed it the way we when we wrote that permit that we said, you know, most of the MS4s are not going to have our old files. You're not going to have our plans.

What if what let's say uh just a scenario where the state legislature decides that that is something that they want to enforce and have it enforced within a a strict period of time. Um at that point, what would be I know that you know because being a state agency, you're you're at the direction of the legislature. So if that was to happen ultimately what would I mean would the knife be in our backs at that point? How how would we go about doing that?

We work for the the general assembly and they pass laws and and regulate we prop actually they pass laws. We write regulations and both of those are open, very transparent processes and any regulation we propose has to go before the South Carolina General Assembly and be approved by the General Assembly before it's implemented. So there are are many opportunities for potential stakeholders to explain what the impact of any regulation we write is. So, and for instance with with counties certainly the association of counties and municipal association will will work heavily with their their member organizations to um have conversation with us about the impact of it to them.

Thank you. the the way I understood that, if I may, and to your point, um, Councilman Thomasson, um, currently inside MS4, we would probably have, and I'd like to identify through our partnership who we do have um that that would qualify as someone who that we are responsible for, okay, in that scenario that that he mentioned, it it doesn't sound to me like there there are going to be many cases where we would be responsible for somebody's detention pond. Um, is is that am I hearing that correctly?

You're hearing that correctly. We do have some counties that have opted particularly in residential to take over maintenance of detention ponds, no matter when they were permitted because they know that for their citizens that's in their best interest. Um, but no, the the way the permit is has been written the past two two cycles is we we we are forward looking. So any that you permit as Kershaw County and you have the plans with and you have the history of you kind of would keep keep rolling with those, keep keep track of those, keep inspecting those and make sure those are done and and working back with in terms of a partnership. If your staff are out and you get a complaint about a detention pond, then working with us and our regional office to to try to figure out who owns it and who's responsible for addressing any um concerns with the condition of that pond. So, for the sake of um a 30,000 foot view of of what we're trying to do, um and to that point, Councilman, Dees is offering us an opportunity tonight to to form a pilot program through a a cooperative partnership. And um I even thought about it today. What what do we call this partnership? Right? I said, "Jill, you can you can help me figure that out."

But it it's a collaboration between Kershaw County and dees in a in a co-op partnership that that helps us find solutions, not through fines, not through uh an iron fist, but but through uh friendly partnership and working together. I don't know if if David I know he's a his title says liaison. I don't know if if he'll be dedicated, our liaison. We we will figure that out and usually work together and we we kind of tag team um to to I think as we flesh out this partnership, understand what the value is it to you,

what is the value to you as a council? What is the value to to the residents and businesses in Kershaw County? Um, we learn with other part we've got a a pilot we're doing right now with Kershaw count or not Kershaw with Lexington County where we're doing some deep dives into their permitting process and through that we're having some really good conversations that then we can take and scale up to a statewide level. So looking at how the lens with which you view things is really important to us. I've always said we don't run an MS4 program. We don't understand the limitations that you have. We have regulations that we have to write permits by. But you got to have some p but having practicality in that because ultimately it's the watery river, it's lake watery, it's it's the creeks of Kershaw County that benefit from that and it's your citizens. So being collaborative, it it helps us all and again it helps us learn as our state grows so incredibly fast. Well, if there's any takeaway that I want to have and and I'm going to shut up. I'm going to let you finish your presentation, but if there's any takeaway tonight, it's that this council has a a unique opportunity uh to to save save money, save time, and [snorts] you know, if there's any burning issue by administration, bring it to light with with dees now through our liaison. attack it head on, fix it, manage the future, and we're just in a beautiful spot. I mean,

this is for real what she's saying up there. First time I've heard it. These are the chiefs. It was a wonderful [snorts] opportunity though for us to be able to work with you and not have to fund an enforcement department to go there and write tickets and write fines and charge people but to work together with the state agency and I was always under the assumption that all the retention ponds were our responsibility. Well, I think maybe some are, but that's something like we just need a clear definition of

we can clear definition of that. And and you you talk about not writing fines, David, another part of David's role is working with homebuilders and and compliance assistance with them. So, in in partnership conversations, if your staff is repeatedly having concerns from from builders or from painters or whoever, then, you know, maybe part of what we do is, okay, let's let's do some focused training and instead of doing penalties, let's let's teach them why we do it. I always think making the connection to whatever it is you're doing personally is really helps people to understand why they've got to do it. And for me, making the connection to Lake Watery and to the value there helps me see why my job is important. or when I go to talk to um engineering school students at USC like they like to to kayak like you know you as engineers the work you do is going to protect those waters that you enjoy spending time with and I know y'all value this community and so that would be our goal from this partnership is help all of us to come to common understanding and and come away with some good ideas. Well, this is a refreshing uh view from a state agency. I think we've um we've got a lot of House representatives and and senators to thank for hiring the right person and putting her in this place. And I just love this attitude. It's very refreshing. I think in the um

reminds me myself. There you [laughter] go. I think uh we need to let let her proceed so we can get through this and be mindful of your time. That is all of of the presentation that I that I have. Um, so I think just Thank you, Jill. Any other questions or comments from council members? Mr. Tucker, anything remotely? That's a no for Mr. Tucker. Mr. Jones, if I may,

how do we get started? I think probably Dave and I will talk, but maybe a like a a workshop type session where whoever from the council and and I'm guessing the administration and your existing stormwater program, we sit down and let's define what the scope is almost like you would do with strategic planning. Well, and and council can help me and correct me on this if I'm wrong, but I think we've been talking about creating a storm water department. Mhm. I'd rather sit down with you instead of create something that's going to cost millions of dollars to the taxpayers. And it sounds like you guys really want to work with the people of Kers County and and that's what it's all about.

Yeah, we can do that. Education and you I think you've just offered us a wonderful opportunity. That's why we should stop and let's think about this before we move any further. And by doing that, I think maybe having a work session with you or with your agency, whoever. Uh, I'm all in, but it takes more than just me. C, can I, Mr. Chairman? Yes, sir. I just want to be because I was in the session we had earlier. I just want to be clear because address something Councilman Jones says and in our breakout session, I remember when our work session we talked about, you guys aren't suggesting we don't stand up a storm water department. As I understand, you guys mentioned the dees is sort of the the least standard and that standing up a stormwater department would not be a bad idea. Is that correct?

We don't tell you how to structure your program. We tell your program what you've got to do and it's up and there are many different models in city and county government of how storm water the permit is implemented. But we again our role is to make sure you implement the permit. The pieces and parts and tools that you do organiz organiz I can't talk this evening. I got a little bit of a cold. Um organizationally is really your decision of what's best for Kershaw County and whether it's through a standalone department. There's it's done different ways throughout the state. And so maybe bringing in some of the others and talking about different practices would be part of what we do and different organizational structures that breed success.

Well, and I'd like to thank my colleague for his clarification, but I'm I'm still all in with what you said tonight. I mean there there's there's no how is there any takeback or kick when you're doing something for the people when you're doing something to save them money. You know I can remember a man told me one time when I first ran he said look you've got to continue your services but you've got to stop looking at tax taxing and creating new fees to resolve an issue. You need to find alternative ways. Well, you've just offered us a wonderful alternative

and and I will speak to my we we are doing that throughout our agency where we are working to evaluate the ways that we think the efficiencies of our programs and and how do we run our agency better? How do we work with our customers better? Um, and we are picking up another of Myra's elements, spreading that and how do we leverage what we're learning and working with the counties and cities throughout the state who are our other key partners. So,

well, I read the book body language three times in the 70s and I'm not go you could probably read my body language. I'm all in to sit down and talk when it comes to making something easier on the people that we serve that put us there that if we don't be careful, they'll wipe everybody out, put somebody else here if we don't take care of them the proper way. I think you've all pointed out a lot of good things and had a lot of good questions and and what we come away with as a a goal or a um a game plan or areas to evaluate.

Well, I'd like to um I'd like to ask our chairman and our administrator, Mr. Templar. Um I think Mr. Templar is a little bit under the weather. I hope you feel better soon. Um, Miss uh, Miss Myarice in our conversation this morning recommended a summit of some some sort, a stakeholder summit. Um, I'd happy to be part of that if we could have some members of council, administration, and engineering work together and tell me what I'm missing. But I'd like to I'd like to do that if possible. Is that

Sure. I mean, we we've done a work session once. Yeah. We've heard from you again tonight, which is great. And I'm just interested in getting granular knowing what the U program will completely entail if there's matching funds required from Kershaw County or, you know, having served at the state house and voted on the split uh that relates to dees and then coming back here and serving. I'm just interested in getting into the details, which would be probably too in the weeds for the meeting tonight, but I would be interested in setting up a work session at some point where we can get together and, you know, have whichever uh folks from your administration, Miss Reese, that are, you know, on point for the various uh subject matter we'll have questions on. So, can we set a time on that?

Well, we're not going to be able to set at night. We have to hurt the cats after the new year, I'm sure. Why Why could we not set a 30-day time limit to have something brought back to us on a time for a work? Mr. Jones, I don't think 30 days is quite going to work with travel schedules. We only have one meeting this month. I'm not going anywhere. Well, unfortunately, I am. I think every other council member is, which is why we had one meeting in December for the holidays. I think it'd be a great issue to visit right after the new year. I'm getting nods from dees as well. Maybe they have travel plans that we'll put we'll we'll put a follow-up tickler on on the next meeting. Miss Santa, if you could do that for me um just to make sure we have something in January. We can at least have something planned by the next meeting. I think we could probably do that. That's reasonable. Well, thank you very much. Thank you all for this opportunity. Thank you so much. Look forward to working with you.

We're very grateful. Appreciate you coming out tonight. All right, gentlemen. That puts us back on the agenda. No votes required on 7B. We're on to item number 8A, approval of the minutes. Is there a motion? Make a motion we approve the minutes. Mr. Kato, is there a second? Second. Mr. Thompson has a second. Any discussion, Mr. Kato? Thank you, Miss Hannah. Appreciate your hard work. Yes, ma'am. Okay. Seeing no further discussion or questions, we'll move it to a vote for those who are present. All in favor, raise your hand on the minutes. It's unanimous in favor for those who are present. Miss Hannah, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote remotely? I'm abstaining. Abstaining.

Yes, I thought for the record, Miss Hannah. So, it passes. The minutes pass on 8A. Item number 9, placed on by Vice Chairman Russell Brazzle. Pecan Orchard update for discussion only. Is there a motion? I make that motion and thank you. Mr. Jones makes the motion. Yeah. Okay. Well, what's the second? I'll second it. Mr. Jones, you made the motion. Do you defer to Mr. Brazle? No. Yeah. Absolutely. He defers. Yields Mr. Brazzle. Mr. Brazzle, you have the floor.

Thank you. Um, this is basically just uh wanted to put this on kind of like we we just discussed a friendly reminder um just like we'll do in 30 days for for the dees summit. Um I know we had two people in the room tonight that live in the pecan orchard. Um do we have anybody else here tonight that's uh regarding the pecan orchard? Okay. So um I think those folks have come and gone. they were um here to present actually I know we allocated some funds was it last year and just wanted to make sure that we we were moving the ball forward in this next year. Um I know it's been a busy season. Danny, do you do you have an idea when when we're going to start? Do we have any kind of start date? So essentially the project has started with the permitting processes. Um there is one area that we will need to so we have water outflowing into one parcel outside of the neighborhood. I reached out to that property owner. I know him personally. So, uh, had a discussion to see what his, uh, what his thoughts were on a potential easement or rightway depending on what we need. So, he's amendable to it. Just wanted to see what the engineers come up with uh, length with kind of what does it look like. It's not one of the more important outfalls, but it is one that is needed uh, if we're going to be successful on these permits. Um utilities, the utility companies are aware out there. They're going to have to do a lot of relocation. So, this is uh kind of all the the background work

right now before shovels start getting put in the dirt. But the project has started. Um and it's it's you know, speaking with Michael Baker, they're handling the permitting. Um so and it just this phase I think this first two two phases is essentially going to be on the one street I think it's Blackberry. Um but that's where a vast majority of the impact is coming. So um yeah we we'll if we do a 30-day kind of uh mile marker like we did with the last presentation. I hope to have a little bit more in terms of permitting and I want to set up those meetings sooner rather than later if I can get some sort of rendering with that with that gentleman and his willingness to have a uh an easement or rightway. So that's

okay. So I would make the recommendation that if um if we can't have that done within the next 30 days, we find an alternate solution. Um, I know water's running in different directions. Um, it's already going somewhere. It's probably going across his yard now. So, hopefully we can we can make it a better better for him as well. Um, whoever that landowner is. Um, can we can we get a hard timeline no later than 60 days as far as when shovels hit the ground? And we'll put a reminder in 30. We've been talking about this. This was August 12th of 2025 that we passed the uh the we got finance committee updated us on phase one and it passed. So here we are at the end of the year. Time's just getting by and we're meeting infrequently. So um not to say I want to put a rush on it because it wouldn't be a rush. I'd like to get this thing moving though.

So you're saying shovels in the ground in 60 days? No, I want a a a hard timeline. I want a soft timeline in 30 days and a hard timeline in 60 days. I could do the soft. I can't promise anything on hard because I'm not in control of a lot of these things. These are outside utility companies. If you have trouble with them, call some of us. I think we can make some phone calls, Danny to help you, sir. Call us if you having trouble with them. I think we can get chair vice chair make a phone call that might help you

in the next meeting. let us know what you need from us and we will help along the way, but um whatever it takes is what we're going to do. Amen.

So, I'm I'm happy to help. Just let me know. Just let me know what what to do and we'll do it. Look at Look at what we just had presented before us from from a state agency. These people are ready to help Kershaw County. Um, if if there's any kind of permitting issue, I think we've got all the help we need in Colombia, if there's uh if there's a utility issue, I think we can help with that as well. We've got great friends with Fairfield Electric. Um, who who's the electric service provider? The Pecan Orchard, I think it's more fiber and and things like that, but I don't I don't know who the electrical provider.

Probably Fairfield Electric. Duke. Duke. I believe it's Duke. Duke. David said he doesn't pay the bill. Well, whatever we can do to help is, you know, I'm I'm not here demanding a result without offering my help. I'm I'm here demanding a result in offering my help. Um, but we've appropriated the money. We We need to So, we've got that. We We have so many things to do. We need to get this one moving in behind us. Um, I just I don't know. We've talked about it for a long time. Ready to talk about something fresh? [laughter] Thank you. Yes, sir.

Second, guys. Y'all look real happy up here. Is everybody doing okay, Mr. Jones? I'm great. I'm doing great. All right. Merry Christmas. Any other comments or questions on item number 9A? Mr. Tucker, anything remotely? [cough] Also, Mr. Chair. All right, that concludes item number 9A. No votes required. Thank you. M if you could put a reminder on on every agenda moving forward throughout next year.

All right, that takes us item number 9B. I'll make a motion that we discuss pickleball courts at Westwater Complex. Is there a second? What did you just say? That moves us to item number 9B. I make a motion that we discuss pickleball courts at the Westwater complex. Okay, that's my motion. Said so fast I couldn't understand it.

We got a second from Mr. Shoemake. Okay, so we've talked about and there's been public interest in having the tennis courts converted to pickleball courts out at the Westwater complex. You already have some construction going out there in the form of uh utilities being moved and then significant parking being accomplished based on what the council's done. I just want to update the council that I've got a private donor who's willing to put $105,000 towards that project. And uh I think based on I'll leave it up to the administrator. This is really just for update. We don't have any quotes or anything. I know you have to follow procurement, but we've got a private donor that would have $105,000 to go towards that project. I know at one point that was more than half of the proposed cost of the project, which I thought was great um because it saves the county that those funds. Um, but I'll I'll bring additional details and um as administrator lets us know, you know, what potential costs are.

Do we have an idea what the ballpark cost that would be?

At one time it was 150, then it was 180 and I don't know what it is now. Um, but that was within the last four or five months. Cost us elections have been kind of ridiculous over the last 18 months to two years or 5 years depending on the horizon. It really is just crazy. And so it makes me feel like somebody's trying to get over on Kershaw County, but then I see cost escalation and and you know, all private matters that you try to build and do as well. So, um, but anyway, update for the council that we've got those funds from a private donor. Um, there the motivation is someone who really is interested in pickle ball. would be donated in uh in her name and they would name one of the courts after this person who had some health issues in the past as I understand it but is an avid pickle ball player and they just want to you know do that for Kershaw County in the Westwater complex and that concludes my remark. Any questions any comments?

If we don't do the pickle ball courts, could she donate that money to uh storm water? To the storm water? Yeah. Well, [laughter] I I don't think so. We're going to have to find an independent way to fund that. that they're not as passionate about storm water, Mr. Jones. And and and that is exactly why I'm so glad the state of South Carolina was in here tonight to tell us how much they can save our citizens. Thank you. All right, that concludes item number 9B. If we don't have anything from you, Mr. Tucker. No, sir.

All right, that takes us to item number 10A. This is a first reading on ordinance to amend um the ZLDR land use development. Any uh background we need, Mr. Templer, on this one on first reading? Uh, bear with me. We're on 10 A. Yeah. Well, sir, this was just some light background. This was to uh adjust the ZLDR as it relates to where these types of businesses would be allowed to go within the county from a planning and zoning aspect. Okay. Thank you for the background. Do we have a motion?

Yes, sir. Mr. Chairman, I'd like to make a motion um to pass the first reading of an ordinance to amend the Kershaw County, South Carolina Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations to add section 3.3.29 29 and amend table 3-3 to establish retail establishments selling hemp derived or synthetic canniboid products as a conditional use in certain zoning districts subject to location separation and operational restrictions. That's the motion. Is there a second? Second. Mr. Jones has a second. Mr. Brazzle.

Thank you, Chairman. Um, as as we've noted and and you'll you'll probably see highlighted very soon, um, this poison is killing our children, uh, strangling generations from our our mothers, our grandmothers, and our children because of a silly loophole left in a farm bill that's allowed THC driven, synthetic, Chinese-made drugs prevalent in gas stations, vape shops, um all throughout the state of South Carolina and specifically where we can legislate here in Kershaw County. It it would be my resolution and um my best effort to get this poison off the streets, save our children, save our parents and loved ones who think maybe they're buying a drink that's something as mild as a CBD oil or cream that you could buy, yet it's syntheticized, potent, THC marijuana that could have, as noted earlier, terrible effects on our children causing states of psychosis. And currently in South Carolina, in our county, it's sold with no age restrictions. This is not your granddaddy's pot. This is poison. This is uh something that's it's plaguing. It's plaguing the world. It's plaguing South Carolina. And now we're starting to see state level mandates and regulations. We're gonna we're going to see federal change, but something that we can do sooner than later is um is help through zoning ordinances. And I really

appreciate our county attorney working with me on this. John, you've done a great job. I commend you and I thank you. And I just hope that we've talked about this and through the briefings, I hope that everybody sees how devastating this is to to families here in South Carolina. Thank you, sir. Uh, any other comments or questions? Mr. Jones, you had the second.

Yeah. I I just want to say thank you to Mr. Resza for the hard work he's put into this [clears throat] cuz this is a lot and I usually don't vote on a whole lot of new ordinances but this is one that's a no-brainer and it's good to see our chairman from the Alpha Center here pro and and pastor Reverend Lee and uh I had heard that y'all had spoke tonight on it. Look, this is a no-brainer and uh I'm just thankful that this council is in supportive of this. Thank you so much. Yes sir. Thank you. Any other comments or questions for those who are in person? Mr. Tucker, any comments or questions remotely? Uh

I just had a question on so this won't affect any of our establishments that's already in place. And then my next question before you answer that is um how has anyone talked to the city's municipalities in the surrounding area because that's where I see a lot of them which are within the city limits of Camden and um Elgen. Mr. both defer to our attorney.

For existing um establishments, um while they might not be able to satisfy separation and location requirements, uh the proposed ordinance does have them uh having to satisfy the operational restrictions, um locking these products, requiring identification, requiring

okay um independent testing of the products, etc., etc. has a sunset provision for sessation of use to have those nonconformities um not be able to reopen if they stop operating for a period of time. So, yeah, it does address u existing uses. And to Councilman Brazzle's point, uh there's federal legislation that becomes effective um in the not too distant future, which may um largely control this again in the future, but in the present um many local jurisdictions have turned to um zoning restrictions of these products to um stem the tide.

Yeah. Can you interfere government? We all be dead. Thank you, Mr. Chuckle. I have a question. Um, has any is the city or the town of Elgen addressing any of these issues in their um municipalities was my second question. I'm not aware of that, but um Mr. Brazil and I did have discussions of uh the fact that um those those talks can occur and um you know administration and myself can certainly reach out and have those conversations.

Yeah. And the only reason I'm bringing this up because as we move through this ordinance I I don't want the future stores to run to those locations because it's it's not an ordinance. Correct. And just procedurally for for the benefit of councel, um this matter will appear on the planning commission agenda in January um January 12th um planning commission meeting and then um we'll we'll return to council with planning commission's recommendation. Okay, great. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Tucker. Anything else? Yeah, I have a lot to say, but I'm not going to say it right now. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Tucker. Mr. Jones, you said you're not going to say it now. Yeah. Yeah, because [laughter] Mr. Tucker get mad at me. All right. Well, thank you, Mr. Jones. Thank you. [snorts] Seeing no other comments or questions, we'll move it to a vote. Uh for those who are in person, raise your hand if you're in favor. It's unanimous. For those who are present in voting, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote on 10A? Vote yes. That's a yes. Miss Hannah, for the record, it's unanimous in favor. Passes on first reading. We move on to item number 10B. This is a first reading. Briefly, may I say thank you to everyone? Sure. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Templer. Any background uh we need on 10B before we seek a motion?

Uh just this parcel, the property owner wishes to kind of clean up the overall parcels that they have to make it consistent and reszone to B2. Okay. This is the first reading on ordinance to amend the zoning map located in Lug Golf and Bowware Road to B2 in a general business district. Is there a motion on 10B? I typically defer to the council member whose district it would be in for such a motion. Is there a motion on 10B? Councilman Jones, is that in your district, sir? Do you see me making a motion?

No, sir. I'll make a motion for purposes of discussion. All right. Hold my hand for a second. Mr. Attorney, we've got an item on the agenda under 10B, not listed for discussion only. We've got a motion that it uh comes up for discussion only, not have Mr. Let me clarify. I'll make the motion. I'm doing so not because I support it, but so it can move to discussion. Okay, we do have a motion. Is there a second? Yeah, I'll make a second. There is a second. Mr. Shoemaker, you made the motion.

Yeah. I like I say, I'm I I'm interested. This is going from can and I don't know if this is you, Danny, or or John. What would be the density change with this zoning granted? Would it increase the available density?

So, there are um contiguous uh parcels owned by the same property owner with different zoning designations. Um, as far as the um allowed uses, B2 and GD are not too dissimilar. Um, street frontage setbacks for B2 go from 50 to 40. Um, side and um, front setbacks remain the same except rear setbacks would increase in B2 and there's some additional B2 uh, setbacks if adjacent to residential. I don't believe it really has an impact on um density of course for any kind of residential use. Um GD is the multi-use district intended to provoke highest and best use of land. Um it is typically um a little more um permissive than um the B2 and allows mixeduse products. Um but again they are both largely commercial um commercially aimed uh districts. So on the plat on Bo Road it's parcel B that that's under um under review. Correct. The 4.18 acres.

Correct. It is that highlighted parcel on Bowware Road behind the frontage parcels along Ridgeway Road. And then on Bowware Road, the contiguous tract is 29 acres and that's already uh B2. Yeah, I believe the uh properties under ownership by the applicant um are uh B2 zoning. In fact, I believe the intent and Mr. Hoover, our planning director is here to provide a little more clarity, but I believe the B2 properties facing Ridgeway Road, some of those are in common ownership with this GD parcel.

So, the the the track um the Upchurch tract ending in 075, 076, 077 are all um B2 as well.

Correct. Those uh Ridgeway Road facing properties owned by Upurch are uh B2. That um map showing the zoning designations of the adjacent properties are on page, you'll bear with me. uh 10 of the staff report which has the aerial and then the um zoning designations across the road between Buckeye and Bowware again fronting Ridgeway um you have a lot of R15 and across from this B2 on Ridgeway there's a lot of R15 um again Mr. Hoover, the subject matter expert and planner has arrived. So, um I can defer further granular questions to him and um ask that he make sure I did not misstate anything for council.

Also interested to know um the reasonzoning to similarity for adjacent tracks. Is there a common plan amongst the own tracks you're aware of or not? This is Zach Hoover uh for Mr. Tucker. As far as we know, there has been no development plans. Uh the applicants, I believe, are here. If they are to speak to that, Mr. Chairman, when it's appropriate, I want to make an amendment. Well, let's hear from Mr. John Wells. Welcome, Mr. Wells. And for the record, by the way, this is district two is the district this is in. Okay. So, this would be Sammy's district, just for what it's worth. We talked about Thank you.

according to this. Yeah. You sure about that? I'm sure that it's what the thing says. I'm sure that it says it in this document.

The reason for this request um came up because of a January 6, 2022 plat prepared for Dan R prep prepared by Dan Riddick for the um for Betty Sue Church who is now deceased. And it showed the lots on Ridgeway Road, which are B2. And it showed the lot, the 4.18 acre lot, and it had a squiggly line between those two. Apparently, he meant that that parcel, the 4.818 18 acre parcel was joined to one of the Ridgeway Road lots and planning and zoning told us that that was going to cause a problem because you had two you had two different zonings for the same piece of property. and you have a policy in your zoning ordinance that you want parcels uniformly zone the same thing throughout the entire parcel. So, we are asking to downzone the 4.1 AC 8 acres 1 4.18 acres. We're asking to downzone that from general commercial which it is right now down to B2 which is the more restrictive zoning. We think that would be in best interest of Kershaw County and it would mean that all the Betty Sue upurch lots would be zoned the same thing.

You know that makes going to be sold as one parcel. That makes perfect sense. I I don't I don't I don't see the issue um with doing that. I don't either. Um I believe we were getting a positive a positive recommendation from the planning commission, but I haven't heard that said tonight. But you again we've been through the planning commission. Yeah, it's in the packet. Yeah, you got a 40 and I Mr. Wells, I appreciate that. And if just a a moment of, you know, quick person, we're restricting ourselves more restrictive, but we want to sell it as one parcel.

Could that have been general development due to the fact that Mr. Upurch had a landing strip for his helicopter? Could that have been a reason for it being in GD back in the day? I think it was just this was where Geral development and B2 met and the property behind this [snorts] 4.18 acres is general commercial and uh this was just where they met but we think that this parcel suits and and is more like the Ridgeway road lots than it is like the GC I it is

development property behind it. I think that makes sense. I'll tell you what, if you if you could promise me a grocery store would would come to that property, I could probably get um an extra vote from somebody in the audience in favor of um I'm very familiar with the property. General development, like you said, is is the least restrictive um in the highest density and all that sort of thing. So, I think you guys are just trying to make one large parcel to offer. Yeah, one large parcel. We don't want to confuse anybody. Yeah. And prior to offering it for sale or development or something like that. Billy Way. Yeah. Billy Way is in charge of trying to sell this.

And Mr. Chair, if I would I I appreciate again Mr. Wells, I appreciate you. That that I think very much helps us. Um Yes. And also just as one last thing I'd like to say, which is a bit unrelated, but as of course everyone up here knows, Mr. Mr. Wells used to sit in well I don't know if it was this specific chair but he used to sit in my seat. I was here with him for eight years. County I know you were. Yeah I know you were a tough opponent. Well I just wanted to say thank you for your service uh to this county because I know how difficult it is. So thank you for that and that explanation was extremely helpful. It's almost as if you've done this before. Yes. [laughter] Well I thank you all because I've escaped and you're still in the [laughter] arena. So I hope with our votes tonight we haven't created more work for you uh at the town of Elgen.

[laughter] Mr. Chair, would it be would it be appropriate? Don't Don't act like you're annoyed when I ask you. Don't act like what, sir? I mean, smile when I ask you a question. You act like you're annoyed with me. Listen, I smile at my wife. Go ahead. [laughter] Would it be appropriate, Mr. John Deose? Would it be appropriate if I can do an amendment that would change mine to make an emotion? We accept this for first reading. Yeah, it's on there already. I thought you said discussion only. No, no. I clarify it's a motion. We got a motion. You got my vote. John Wells, council. Well, seeing no further discussion, u Mr. Jones has already voted, but we'll move it to a vote for those who are present. All in favor, raise your hand. [laughter] Passes unanimously for those who are in person. Um, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? Yes.

Yes. Remote, Miss Hannah, it's unanimous and passes on first reading. That's 10B. We want to thank you from our church family. Thank you. Yes. Good to see you tonight, Billy, and family. Thank you'all for being here. Item number 10 C. This is first reading on an ordinance to establish operation regulations regarding golf carts placed on by Councilman Jones and Councilman Tomlinson. Do we have a motion? Mr. Chairman, I make a motion that we um adopt first reading of 10 C. All right, Mr. Thomasson has the motion. Is there a second? Second. We have a second. Mr. Thomasson, you have the floor.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um I'm going to be a lot more brief and hopefully this won't take as long as the last ordinance. Um but last legislative session, South Carolina passed a law um that kind of set up the framework for golf cart registration and golf cart operation on public highways um that also pushed down to the local counties, municipalities, the ability to regulate golf cart hours amongst a few other things. So, right now, currently underneath the state sunset law, you cannot operate golf carts after sunset. This changes doesn't change the ability of registering a golf cart. You still got to register it. You still got to be 16 or older driver's license. You still can't go on a major highway. It's got to be 35 miles hour or under. But, it gives the ability for someone to ride their golf cart based upon all the state regulations after dark. It's all it does. We have to have this because currently you can't do it and it's in unincorporated areas of the county and it cannot be on a major highway. I appreciate y'all listening. Look forward to y'all supporting it.

Mr. Jones, you had the second. Thank you, Mr. Thomas. I agree with Miss Brazzle, Thomasson 100%. Uh I think Surfside has the uh I think there's a few municipalities who they do and it's it's worked out well. Now, I'm not going to drive out at night because I don't see as well. I used to. Yeah. But I think this is definitely a a good law and you know we got an expert back there in sitting in the back. Yeah. And and Tai came to us amongst other residents but I think um I don't think any council has questions. We can bring somebody up. But I think we just go quickly. I'm fine with it. It's got my support. Any other comments, questions for those who are

thing I'd like to add he didn't say is is these golf carts are also insured. So they have to carry insurance and that's based upon state law. Yeah. And that's based upon the state law. Thank you, Mr. Kto. Mr. Tucker, anything remotely before we vote? Yes, sir. Um because I'm not quite familiar with all what's in the state law. Um so these are definitely lights, signals, um rearview mirrors. Is that included as well? I'm not sure about the rearview mirrors, but yes, license or Mr. Bose, you want to answer that?

Yeah. Um the state requires registration, permitting, um age restrictions that have already been recited. Um but yeah, safety equipment, lighting, um yes, mirrors. Um essentially, uh the state has uh again allowed these until dusk, aka sunset, but um have regulated them such that uh the state believes certain minimum safety requirements um exist uh for the golf carts that they do allow to operate on on these roads. Okay. Thank Thank you, Mr. Deville. I'll give it my first start. I have a few more questions, but I'll I'll get with um Grant or um one of the other council members there.

Jamie, with my additional questions. Okay. Oh, Councilman Jones, that's what it was. Thank you, Mr. Tucker. Thank you. All right, we'll move it to a vote, Mr. Tucker, since I have you already. How do you vote remotely? That's a yes. I heard uh Miss Hannah from Mr. Tucker remotely. For all those who are present and voting, raise your hand if you're in favor. And it is unanimous and passes. Miss Hannah on 10 C. Up next, we have a resolution a resolution. This is a standard business for us to approve the slate of meetings for the next year. And so I'll make a motion that we approve the slate of meetings as proposed in the uh agenda packet for next year. Is there a second? I'll second.

All right, we've got a second. you see the resolution before us related to business meetings or council meetings uh second and fourth Tuesdays throughout the year. Um only thing that I think we might bring up in January and I'd like for this to be on the agenda please would be work session dates. So when we're doing budget work sessions, if we can get uh council information and update and commitment to that so everybody can attend as best as their schedules will allow that will be great and working through uh budget items and then we'll u of course do special call meetings as we need to or vary based on holiday schedules after we get through the budget next year. Mr. Chair,

yes. Did we when we voted last time and I'm fine with the schedule, but did I thought we had said that January and or February we were going to do one meeting. Is that Did we not say that last time? Am I just misremembering that? I I think we we did not. We said we go January. I thought it was just Yeah, January. I thought with January we were going to have one. I mean, I'm fine with the schedule, but I just want to point out that we had said one, but I'm fine with two. But I just want to point that out. Well, Mr. Schumate, any other comments or discussion? Mr. Chairman, Mr. Tucker. Yes, sir. Mr. chairman.

Yeah, Mr. May, it it's always been um that we did we scheduled the two, but we have made in many occasions um an adjustment to our schedule after um we get the um millet set and the tax bills out in October. So, just putting that out there to you. I don't remember that. Sammy Tucker, well, you had two meetings in December. Well, we we've got the motion as proposed and presented from staff. I'm happy to entertain an amendment if somebody wants to amend it to just one meeting in January. I like it. I think it's going to be a heavy lift early on next year. Um if we find that January might look a little bit lighter, we could drop it down to one meeting after our first meeting in January if we need to. I need to say something.

Um sir, yes, Mr. Jones. Mr. Jones. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um, you know, I I voted with this council to go to one meeting and and and I thought it would work well, but I feel like we we tend to get a little disconnected when there's 30 days in between, especially during the busy times of the year. But I like this schedule. I'm going to support it and uh appreciate what y'all have done as well. Thank you. Thank you, Mr. Jones. Any other comments or discussion?

Seeing none, Mr. Deose. Um just operationally and to the extent that it impacts uh council's consideration of that second January meeting. Um currently the required 30-day public hearing notice for the canabonoid zoning regulation would um fall on that January 27th meeting for council. Um so again to the extent that influences scheduling I just wanted to make we don't have an amendment so it's on for right now. All right. See no see no further discussion uh questions or amendments. We'll move to a vote for those who are in person. If you're in favor, raise your hand on the resolution. This is 11. It's unanimous in favor for those who are present in voting. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote remotely?

Yes. All right. That is a yes from Mr. Tucker remotely, Miss Hannah. That takes care of 11. Uh gentlemen, we've already addressed both items under uh 12 for appointments. This takes us to council member briefings. Mr. Kato, please.

I'm going to be very brief. Um, I want to thank staff. I've I've looked at some of the um ball fields that's taking place and and progress is moving along. I hope I don't take anything from Danny, but progress is moving along. Very happy with that. Looks like everything is going to get completed here very soon and and it looks real good. So, thank you for that. Um, on a sad note, I want [clears throat] to take the time to send my condolences to the Elliot family.

Uh, Mr. Gary Elliott was a a friend of mine, but he was also a longtime county employee. He served his community through the fire service for many years. years. He was the fire marshal here in Kershaw County and he passed away back on December the 7th. Um and he will be greatly missed and um if you was ever he he could cook and he can make you laugh and that was two things that you can remember. He was he was a he was an outstanding outstanding person. He also served on this council and uh in and actually the district that I serve now. So, I I thank him for everything he done for Kershaw County. Uh, services is going to be on December the 14th at P funeral home at 300 p.m. Um, if anyone would like to [snorts] um attend that service, but again, my thoughts and prayers go out to the Elliot family. Lastly, I hope everyone has a very merry Christmas. a lot of things going on family related and parades and events and I just pray that everyone stays safe and and enjoys the the wondrous holiday season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Thank you.

Thank you, Mr. Kato. Mr. Tomlinson. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Um I too have some [clears throat] some news about a passing. My great uncle passed Saturday evening. Uh Mr. Ronnie Holland lives on Franklin Street um in East Camden. wonderful, wonderful individual. Um, he was mean as a Dickens, too, but a wonderful individual. Please be with the family and and um keep him, keep our family in your prayers. Um, and then lastly, I hope staff and and everybody has a wonderful holiday season. Um, if you need me, we'll still be available even though we will not be having another meeting. Um, please feel free to call me anytime if you need anything. I'm always available. Have a blessed one. Thank you, Mr. Tomlinson. And sorry about that loss.

Thank you, Mr. Jones.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, members of council. A couple [clears throat] things on the same note. Um, Cecil Trudel, I don't know if many knew him and Lorraine Trudel, um, their daughter is Jessica who married Jamie. And, uh, anyway, she passed away a few months ago, and then he passed away this past week. And, uh, I'd never seen such a celebration of life as I did uh, last night with his service. And uh I have to say that that young lady Jessica, nobody c nobody plans to bury both your parents within months from each other. You know, we don't always know what our plan is. Only God knows. But she has strong she has shown what a true daughter is, a true mother, wife. I mean, she's she's just been she's had a big burden on her these last few weeks. And I just wanted to pass this on to y'all. keep her in keep the family in your prayers. And also um I met Gary Elliott in 1966. He had a 1962 Chevrolet and he was in martial arts. He could take his foot and change the gears in the car. And uh he picked me up off the street. Well, actually I was 14 years old. He picked me up the street hitchhiking. him and Joey Puh and some others from Colombia. And they brought me to Camden because I was coming to live with Uncle Bob who is now in a uh in the Veterans Hospital to Bronze Star recipient. And u from that point on we it was just a a a wonderful friendship. I always looked up to him. He got me started martial arts and uh we we did that through the 70s and uh you know we both started back with the county together back in my my second goound was 1983. Gary became the fire marshal and he did a wonderful job

with his fire service. He took a guy mayor who was the first fire marshal ever and then Gary was the second. But Gary was a was a good man. He as you said he could cook. he could, you know, do a lot of different things and uh but uh he will be missed and he was on county council. We just happened to not only work together through our careers, but when I got out and retired and he retired, then he ended up running for county council one. I ended up running for county council one and uh he did a remarkable job up here. He and I agreed on a lot of things and um he was a great man. and I hated to hear of his passing, but uh thank you also for recognizing him. Councilman, that's it.

Thank you, Mr. Jones. Mr. Tucker, I'll go to you remote. I'm just staring at your chair that I'm sitting in. Okay. Derek, are you sitting in my chair? Yes. Anytime you're not here, I sit in your chair. Last two times, you need to get back here. Please allow the man to continue. Yeah.

Oh, man. [clears throat] It's broke. Um, I just wanted to um share that um um I actually participated in the uh Association of Counties uh legislative conference last week and it was it was great. A lot of good things. Uh the state should be able to fund us some additional money in our local um fund for the counties um which is going to be a great help. And um there was um some other things that they were working on um as well. And um the COD conference last month in November was just as good. A lot of good things and uh have some ideas that I want to bring in our retreat that's coming up. I also want to announce that on the 19th, which is not this Friday, but next Friday, the finance committee will be meeting at 4:00. Um, I want to say that I'm sorry for all the deaths uh in the county and throughout um the state and the world for all who's going through bereavement during these times of holidays. Uh my prayers and love are with those families and I want to tell everyone to merry Christmas and a happy new year and let's as Ben said in his prayer, let's look to kick off 2026 in a very prosperous, meaningful, loving way that we can best serve the citizens of Persaw County. That concludes my report. Mr. Chairman,

thank you, Mr. Tucker. Mr. Shemate. Yeah. Um, well, first off, I know I mentioned his name earlier, but uh, hats off to Connor Rom for being the only person in the room who isn't paid in some level to be here, cuz Martin at least gets paid by his papers. So, the only person here for free. That's impressive. Everybody's gone. [laughter] I mentioned the level of service, you know, that's impressive. It's December, almost Christmas, and this guy's sitting through a whole council meeting in per in person. That shows his shows his dedication to the county. So, that's awesome. Um, Jimmy, I'm sorry to hear about uh her family. I I didn't know that had happened. Of course, you know, I know her well. Of course, know your son well. So, they love you to death. I

I love them and I hate to hear that. Um, and uh want to say on a on a positive note, um, congrats to my daughter. She was accepted last week to the College of Charleston Honors College as a biology major where she hopes to do a pre-med track. And I want to thank Chairman Connell and Mr. Lauren Burch uh who's a board of trustees member and so many other people that helped get us get her in front of the right people. But mostly of course I proud of my daughter who as a senior at height Luga Felgian the senior class president has never made less than an A and is also a girl state graduate and a member of the track team. So very very proud of my young lady. She took after her mom.

She absolutely took after mom certainly with the track. Um yeah, so and the last thing is obviously merry Christmas and you know to those to the extent you can and those anyone that is listening shop local. We got some good places you know over in Elgen we have South by Southwest Stacy I want to say Stacy Bryant's place but I know that's your maiden name but I can't remember your married name and I know she got her place. You have the new hardware store. It's the old hardware store but it's under new ownership. They have a lot of cool stuff.

Good stuff. Um, Goreier or Gorgette, depending on uh, how you want to pronounce it, is a little liquor uh, little liquor place right there on Whiting Way. They do their own, they brew all their own stuff. It's all historically tied and from South Carolina. So, there's a lot of place in Kershaw County to find really cool gifts. Uh, so avoid Amazon and shop local and boost the Kershaw County economy. Merry Christmas. Thank you, Mr. Shoemake. Mr. Brazzle, top that Brussel. Well, yeah. androys wood products for all your wood needs. Yeah, there you [laughter] go. Please do. We love the Christmas rush. You can't top it. [laughter]

John De Bose has got Hatch Acted and all kinds of other things written across his room. [laughter and clears throat] Mr. Mr. Brazzle, please.

Lord have mercy. Uh I'm terribly sorry to hear about the loss of of of Gary Elliott. Um he did a lot for the fire service. Um thank you for highlighting for highlighting him. I I'll have to agree. He was a great guy. I met him when he ran for uh council years ago and um I can I can remember him doing exactly what what you said was he he was cooking and out seeing people and visiting people. Very likable, very personable individual and um and and he did he he brought a lot of good food. He he brought some by our work. So, um, Jimmy, I'm I'm sorry for for you and your your families, your extended family's loss [snorts] and and Brent, you you as well. I I didn't I didn't realize that. I'm I'm terribly sorry to hear that. Um, as in life, we we all face seasons of grief and um they're not easy. And uh I hope everyone can can rest and and know that during this Christmas season that the the reason is Jesus Christ and his grace and forgiveness is um what what allows us to endure. Um I'd like to say thank you to to our chairman Ben Connell and um Derek. Thank you for mceing the ribbon cutting at the boat ramp. I think the boat ramps turned out absolutely fantastic. I think um I think they drained all the water out of the river as soon as we cut the ribbon. Um it was uh at 5 foot one for about a week afterwards and there were a few complaints that um they're having trouble launching their boats and that's more like a July August river level. So uh throughout a little bit of conversation we've got some solutions for that. Um maybe on in the summer we'll mark the end of the boat ramp, put up some safety signs, and uh we found some concrete products that we can embed

in the mud at the end to fix those small percentage situations in which the river is 5 foot, not six foot, and that's still low. So, [snorts] um a very well engineered, uh thoughtout yet imperfect boat ramp. Uh we never strive for perfection because we are all human and I'm glad of that. So, um, but very happy with the way it turned out. Very happy with, uh, the the amount of people that came and, um, just real happy Councilman Jones, who who all attended. Councilman Jones attended. Everybody attended. Kato was there. Um, that's right. Brandt showed up. Everybody was there. That was a good turnout.

Show. I really That's right. I really appreciate I really appreciate we had law enforcement. We had law enforcement. I had a a college friend that's a game warden show up from Florence. It was just a good event and I appreciated everybody being there. It was uh it was a big deal for Kershaw County and a and a highlight for me um as we fought hard for that to happen. So, with all of that being said, I will um I'll shut my mouth and say merry Christmas. Thank you all.

Thank you, Councilman Brazzle. I've got a few things to share as we conclude the year and I [clears throat] have no idea people how many people are watching online. So I'm just going to treat this like a small group of friends that I'm talking to as a parting message for 2025. The formalities first and for administration and if someone's listening anybody that's stealing something from the tinsel trail it better be Santa's little elves out there packaging up gifts for children. Because if you're so petty that you will take a truck from a sandbox or a basketball from a display all in good faith in this community, you know, the the Lord knows. I you know, I just pray for you. Um I hope that we're better than that. We've never had an issue out there, but for whatever reason this year maybe people are really hard up for toys and I understand we've got some lights and whatever security measures you can put out there. We don't want it to put a taint on one of the most positive things we have in the county, the Tinsel Trail and focusing on the um the Veterans Park out there. I just wanted to mention this Saturday you've got the Camden Christmas Parade and the Lights of Lugof Parade both on uh 13th I believe this date. One in the morning, one in the evening. It's a great show of Christmas spirit and the community coming together. I've always loved attending. I'm not sure if I would make be able to make lights to lug golf, but I encourage everyone to go out. And lastly, I I want to mention this before I share my last thought. Do you know that this group, other than my immediate family and sometimes my church family, this group is the one that I pray with the most every year. If you think about that, particularly for those who attend the agenda meetings, we pray together more frequently than than just about anybody else. And to me, that is very special. We unite um when two or three are gathered in his name,

he's going to be with us also. And so, we unite in prayer so frequently. I just thought that was important to call out as we look at this year and passing and the year ahead. Next year, we will be the group of people that pray together the most, most likely in our lives, other than Bible studies you might attend or your immediate family. And so that's special, and I hold y'all in a high and special regard because of that. We share a prayer life in that way, unfortunately. But I hope it will bring light to her name. Um, Sister Katie Peoples. I don't know if you knew Katie Peoples. She just passed away. and I kind of hope you don't know her name because it will bear fruit on what I'm about to share with you. Katie was a testament to the fact that you don't have to have a lot of money to be rich. She was a testament to the fact that you don't have to have a whole bunch of education and degrees to be very intelligent. Sister Katie Peoples taught me since I was a child in primary at church. She spent most of her life uh helping a family member who was special needs. She always worked hard and did her best to provide for her family. A woman of slight means, but one of the richest people I've known in the world because of how kind and loving she was. Excuse me if I get emotional. She just had such a big impact on my life. And so tonight, I share as memorialization for this small group how important Katie People Katie Peoples was in my life. And I hope that her example will echo throughout history in some way. I guess this is recorded so people can watch it at some point. But know her name. She was a special person. She reminds me of the lady that had such a big impact in the scriptures with the widows might. She gave more than everyone else because she gave what she had. And that was the example I witnessed from her and I hope it sticks with me and I'm able to share with my kids at some point. And that concludes my remarks. Uh, merry Christmas everyone. We do have a little

bit more business to share and wrap up. We have uh administrator's briefing. Anything for us, Danny?

Yes, sir. Just on the uh tential trail stuff. That's it's it's uh very unfortunate, but I'm looking at doing is when we cut the lights off there at 9:30 at night, just locking the gates because it's this is going to continue to happen. Um and Danny, correct me if I'm wrong, there was a a a woman out there who was a victim of a homicide. It was there was a tree set up in her honor. I think that was picked apart. Um it's just super unfortunate. I don't want to see this this really nice feature. It's always talked about. It has really positive uh reviews and and positive community feedback. But these people are going out there and putting their time and effort into these trees for the enhancement of our community. and they're just being vandalized and uh the things are being stolen. So just while this event is going on, we're going to lock the gates there to prevent any of this any further.

Also, Mr. Administrator, I know you're going to bring up before us a ordinance or some type of regulation in relation to boat ramps. While we're addressing that, please consider other things we need to tack on to address this kind of issue. If we need to have some additional teeth for law enforcement or surveillance or otherwise to protect these types of uh public parks, I'd like to see [snorts] that. Yes, sir. Uh so that will be on the next agenda where we have the ability to deal with trash and and camping and just uh just any kind of things that uh may go on on a boat ramp that we don't necessarily have the teeth to enforce with both DNR and local law enforcement. So, [snorts]

um we will work to get that message out. Uh but we do want to protect the tensil trail because that is just a very unique uh feature and of course the boat ramp across the street will is is still available. So, but just as soon as this is done, we'll we'll get that opened back up. Okay. So, you you [snorts] um you propose closing at 9:30 at night. Um what time would it open, Danny? because it's the first I'm hearing of it and every thing that I've been told and heard is that the boat ramp was available 24/7. So, everybody that has asked me that has been what I've told them.

So, um with duck season uh just around the corner, I think it um I don't know what the opening date is. Well, it's not before the end of December, is it? Yes. I think opening date was last weekend roughly. Dang.

Um that's going to pose The second split is December 12th. So, we had a Thanksgiving season and then it opens December the 12th and then it goes out January 31st. So, um that's that's this Friday morning that it's going to open. Probably a lot of people I would think that are going to plan to use it. I'm sure they can use the other one if they have to, but um no different than what you just mentioned um thievery. The issue with the other boat landing and one of the big reasons why we built this boat landing was to provide a safer place for people to park because um I know I spoke to two or three people just this week that thanked me for um the work and effort that we put into it because they said at our age we weren't able to use the other ramp anymore. Um and now we can. So, if if there's a boat, we can't lock somebody in. If there's if there's a truck and trailer at the ramp, um people are going to want to go hunting. They're going to want to leave by 5:00 a.m., I would think. So, how do we navigate that?

We'll look at doing whatever we can to be as as accommodating as we can. We know that this is a, you know, there's a short mesh period there. It's not anything earthshattering. Can we get a 5:00 a.m. uh gate unlocked so that we can tell people when it will be closed for the short period of time and and reopen? So, yes, that we will come up with a schedule. I'll share it with y'all and make sure that we can honor what we say with the 5:00 a.m. Um, again, I just want to protect this display but still be accommodating and and available. So,

okay. Well, like that would so that would be my suggestion. Um, as far as a reasonable time to open, if it were any later, you wouldn't have time to to get out and set your decoys and and hunt. It it'd make it less safe. Um, so, you know, everybody has a something they like to do. Some people like to set up lights and Christmas trees on the tinsel trail, and I respect that, and others like to go duck hunting, and I respect that. So, I just want to make sure that we're covering all our bases. Thank you. 24-hour. Anything further, Mr. Administrator? That's all the good news I have. Mr. Bose, anything that doesn't require executive s? No, that's all the good news you have.

All right. Uh, council members, last times we have an executive session under 16. This is A and B. [sighs] I would seek a motion that we enter executive session under item 16 A and B. All in relation to receipt of legal briefings regarding a matter subject to attorney client privilege. This is under SC code 30-4-70 and related subp parts. Do we have a motion? Motion. Second. A motion and a second. Any discussion from those who are in person? Seeing none, any discussion, Mr. Tucker? No. Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? No. Yes. That's a yes. And for those in person, raise your hand if you're in favor. Executive session. It's unanimous. Miss Hannah, we are in executive session.

Yeah. And just for the public's benefit, Mr. No one vote. No votes anticipated. Correct. Correct.

Got a motion to come out of executive session. Is there a second? Second. We got a second. Seeing no discussion, move it to a vote for exiting executive session. All in favor, raise your hand on exit exit session. It's unanimous. Hannah, for those who are present voting, Mr. Tucker, how do you vote? He's out. He said he's off. Oh, he's off, Mr. All right. So, it we're out of executive session. That passes. And seek a motion to adjurnn. Make a motion we adjourn. Mr. Kato. Any second? We got a second. Mr. Tomlinson. Seeing no discussion, we'll move it to a vote. Merry Christmas and everybody raise your hand if you're in favor. Happy New Year.