MONDAY
SALUDA COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:9 a.m.
LOCATION:Saluda County EMS Headquarters, 154 Medical Park Road, Saluda.
AGENDA:council members at Saluda County EMS Headquarters for informal gathering to meet Saluda County EMS staff.
GREENWOOD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 50 TRUSTEES
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION:Genesis Education Center, 400 Glenwood St., boardroom.
AGENDA: Information Items: retiree recognition; Administrative Leadership Team in-service, 8 a.m. July 30, Genesis Eduation Center (GEC); new teacher welcome, 3 p.m. Aug. 11, Northside Middle School; opening of school ceremony, 9 a.m. Aug. 13, Emerald High School; school/staff recognition; superintendent evaluation, board evaluation; iTEAMS camp; mock district drill; minority business activity; financial update. Open forum. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss student, personnel, contractual matters. Afterward, action item: personnel recommendations and vacancies.
GREENWOOD CITY COUNCIL
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:municipal building, council chambers, room 207.
AGENDA: Public hearing and second reading, ordinance to adopt by reference Greenwood County Ordinance No. 2015-01. Public hearing and second reading, ordinance amending Greenwood Code of Ordinances Section 6-139 and Section 6-144. Public hearing and second reading, ordinance to establish various inspection related fees. Public hearing and first reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 03-010, Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 2, Definitions; Chapter 3, Section 3.2.1.2., Conditional Uses Allowed in All Residential Districts; and Sections 3.2.2.2., 3.3.4.2., 3.3.5.2., and 3.4.2.2., Conditional Uses Allowed. Second reading, ordinance to rezone parcel of land at 1148 Edgefield St., 0.78 acre, from High Density Residential Office Professional. First reading, ordinance amending City of Greenwood Taxicab Ordinance; first reading, ordinance deleting Sections 10-27 and 10-53 of City of Greenwood Code of Ordinances; consider authorizing mayor to sign retention schedule for Hospitality and Accommodations Tax forms; consider re-appointing Jennifer Duffie to Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. (If needed) closed meeting to discuss construction contractual matter regarding Riley/Magnolia Streetscape; to discuss legal matter regarding Edward Lee Elmore litigation. City council comments; city manager comments.
NINETY SIX TOWN COUNCIL
TIME:6 p.m.
LOCATION:Visitors Center.
AGENDA:Charles Newton, Century Link, Greenwood County fire fee; committee reports; department reports. (If needed) closed meeting.
TUESDAY
ABBEVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES
TIME: 4 p.m.
LOCATION:administrative building, 400 Greenville St.
AGENDA:board policy workshop.
ABBEVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES
TIME:7 p.m.
LOCATION:administrative building, 400 Greenville St.
AGENDA:begin with closed meeting; then, regular session.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE COMMITTEE
TIME:4 p.m.
LOCATION:Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium, 600 Main St. S.
AGENDA: Quarterly investment performance update of Greenwood County operating and electric capital accounts (April-June 2015); Public Safety Training Facility Committee update; discuss request to award a bid for 20 4RE In-Car Camera Systems and one Evidence Library Express Standalone Software to Watch Guard Digital In-Car Video for Sheriff’s Office; update on proposed draft for bicycle and pedestrian improvements in and around the City of Greenwood; appointment of Steven M. Pruitt (2-year term), James L. Martin (3-year term) and Dennis R. Hammett (4-year term) as commissioners for Forrest Hills Special Tax District; consider proposed boundary line agreement with Roger and Cheryl Descoteaux; consider proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; resolution to appropriate funding from Capital Project Sales Tax for pre-design work at Buzzard Roost Project; resolution adopting memorandum of understanding between Greenwood County and Greenwood Partnership Alliance for marketing and development of the North Greenwood Industrial Park. Pending items: Backwater Road, Newport Subdivision; road acceptance standards; DNR funding for Lake Greenwood Master Plan. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium, 600 Main St. S.
AGENDA: Public comment (sign-in only). Public hearing and second reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 2013-12, pertaining to unsafe structures, by including swimming pools as a structure and the maintenance of swimming pools Public meeting and second reading, ordinance amending Greenwood County Zoning, being Ordinance 13-82, by amending the text of Sections 6-3-43 (Light Industrial), 6-3-44 I-2 (Heavy Industrial, 6-3-47 RDD (Rural Development District), and 6-3-108 Accessory Structures by adding solar farms as conditional uses and listing the conditions under which solar panels may be utilized as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts. Consider request to award a bid for 20 4RE In-Car Camera Systems and one Evidence Library Express Standalone Software to Watch Guard Digital In-Car Video for the Sheriff’s Office; resolution adopting a memorandum of understanding between Greenwood County and Greenwood Partnership Alliance for marketing and development of the North Greenwood Industrial Park; appointment of Steven M. Pruitt (2 year term), James L. Martin (3 year term), and Dennis R. Hammett (4 year term) as Commissioners for Forrest Hills Special Tax District; consider proposed boundary line agreement with Roger and Cheryl Descoteaux; consider proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; consider acceptance of negotiated taxes to be paid by Contech Forgings, LLC; resolution to appropriate funding from Capital Project Sales Tax for pre-design work at Buzzard Roost Project. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice.
WARE SHOALS TOWN COUNCIL
TIME:6:30 p.m.
LOCATION:town hall, 8 Mill St.
McCORMICK COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:7 p.m.
LOCATION: administration center, 610 S. Mine St., McCormick.
AGENDA: Introduction of Thessa Smith, economic development director. Public hearing and third reading, ordinance making provision for tax anticipation borrowing by McCormick County, in a principal amount not exceeding $1 million, in anticipation of collection of ad valorem taxes for fiscal year beginning July 1; to prescribe the terms and conditions of such borrowing and the form of note to be executed evidencing the same; and to make provision for the payment thereof. Consider accepting the low bidder of the IT services for McCormick County; consider authorizing county administrator signing a memorandum of understanding with CompuDoc for IT services for McCormick County; consider appointing Dale Cullum to Upper Savannah Workforce Development Board; consider authorizing the administrator to coordinate with Public Works director to assist the Senior Center per attachment No. 3; consider the name for the Industrial Site in Plum Branch. Committee reports. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice concerning Terranova Group. Information items: SLV Special Tax District meeting minutes for June 2015; letter of thanks from Mims Community Center No. 3; McCormick County Transportation 2015-16 C Fund revenue; email from Kenny Jones, recreation director; letter from Carolina Health Centers.
PIEDMONT TECH AREA COMMISSION
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:Lex Walters Campus, John S. Coleman Administration Building, room 222-A.
AGENDA: Report from Nominating Committee; policy revisions; financial review; introduction to Institutional Scorecard; Commissioners’ Foundation Liaison Report; president’s report.
WEDNESDAY
GREENWOOD METROPOLITAN DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS
TIME:3 p.m.
LOCATION:Emmett F. Brooks Facility, 110 Metro Drive, commission room.
AGENDA: Partnership Alliance report; Park Sterling Investment reports; June finance reports for information and review; manager’s report. (If needed) Closed meeting.
THURSDAY
GREENWOOD CPW
TIME: 10 a.m.
LOCATION:121 W. Court Ave., boardroom.
AGENDA: Report from County Bank; financial statement; bid opening, bill forms and envelopes; consider fund transfer; consider establishing Water Rate Stabilization Fund; consider addition to Electric Rate Stabilization Fund; consider Elevated Water Tank Agreement; consider check exchange with City of Greenwood; consider amended NTE Agreement; consider bids for Ben Franklin Water Extension; other business. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss legal and contractual matters.
Brewer High School Class of 1964, meeting, 5 p.m. today at American Legion Post 224 (The Hut).
The Brewer High Class of 1966, meeting, 11 a.m. July 25 (fourth Saturdays) at Brewer Complex Cafeteria. Call 864-227-8538 or 864-223-8245.
Family of the Rev. William L (Billy Lee) and Trannie Johnson, reunion 1 p.m. July 26, at Mountain Creek Baptist Church, Kirksey. Bring covered dish. Call Mac McDowell, 864-230-8121.
All former workers of Chemstrand, Monsanto, Solutia and Ascend, friendship-fellowship gathering 5 p.m. Aug. 2 at Mount Zion Baptist Church, Highway 246 (Coronaca).
Brewer High School Class of 1968, meeting, 1 p.m. Aug. 8 at Brewer Complex. Call 864-554-3657.
Freeland-Crawford, descendants of James Manning Corey Freeland and Caroline Augusta Butler Freeland, reunion 12:45 p.m. Aug. 9, Plum Branch Baptist Church, fellowship hall. Bring picnic lunch, tea.
Descendants of Arthur and Ellie Williams, Hodges, reunion is Aug. 15-16. All interested persons should call Maya Moss for registration and payment details: 864-320-8349.
Brewer High School Class of 1963, meeting, 5 p.m. Aug. 15 (third Saturdays) at Brewer Complex. Call 864-229-6389 or 864-223-1095.
Brewer High School Class of 1970, meeting, 5 p.m. Aug. 16, at the home of Vivian Archie. Final reunion payment due.
Greenwood High School Class of 2005, reunion 6-10 p.m. Aug. 22 at The Links at Stoney Point. Contact Katie Finkbeiner Engram, katiefinkbeiner@gmail.com.
Carroll Family, meeting, 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at Jermaine Moss home. Planning 2016 reunion; dues collection will begin — $50, ages 13 and older; $25, ages 3-12. Email: sccarrollfamilyreunion@yahoo.com.
SECOND (INDIANHEAD) DIVISION ASSOCIATIONis searching for anyone who served in the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division at any time. For information about the association and the 94th annual reunion Sept. 22-26 in San Antonio, Texas, contact Bob Haynes, secretary-treasurer, at 2idahq@comcast.net or 224-225-1202.
USS LONG BEACH (CGN-9) ASSOCIATION,reunion Sept. 14-20 at the Wyndham Jacksonville Riverwalk, 1515 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, Fla., 32207; room rate $96. Call 904-396-5100 for reservation; identify as reunion member. For more information, contact: Don Shade, 866-352-2469 or 716-569-2314; email lbcgn9@aol.com; website www.usslongbeach-assoc.org.
Monday — 9:30-10 a.m., Shepherd’s Flock; 10:15-10:45, Learning Vine; 11:15-11:45, St. Paul AME; 1:45-2:30 p.m., Housing Authority; 3-3:30, Weston Chapel; 4:10-4:20, Sherwood Lane; 4:30-4:45, CTH.
Tuesday — 9:10-9:20 a.m., Ashley Place; 9:30-9:45, Bayberry Retirement; 10-10:30, Hampton House; 10-11, Little River (last); 11:30-12:30, Magnolia Park (last).
Wednesday — 9:30-10:15 a.m., Lifetime Discoveries; 10:30-11, Sunshine House Learning Academy 2; 11-11:30, Faith Camp; noon-1 p.m., PLEAD; 3;30-4, Phoenix Apartments; 4:15-4:45, Emerald Workshop.
Thursday — 10-11 a.m., YMCA.
Originally Published by Index-Journal on:Jul 19, 2015
Article Link: https://www.indexjournal.com/news/public-meetings-july-19/article_334a9f94-525c-5ac3-ac5a-d75dc3e6eb49.html
Lakelands counties eyeing penny tax
/in UncategorizedCome 2016, multiple counties in the Lakelands could be collecting pennies.
Known as a penny tax, the capital project sales tax has become a common tool for local governments to collect a little extra to fund large brick-and-mortar projects.
Greenwood County Council Chairman Steve Brown announced earlier this year during his State of the County address the county will be pursuing the tax, which must be placed on the ballot for a referendum.
Capital sales taxes are typically placed on the ballot during a general election year. The county’s pursuit is no exception and it is expected to place it on the ballot for next year’s election in November.
Abbeville County has already put together a committee as required by state statute to review project requests after failed attempts to place the tax on the ballot a year ago.
McCormick County Council called a joint meeting for Monday with its municipalities’ town councils, Commissioners of Public Works and the legislative delegation to discuss a capital sales tax.
State statute requires the county to put together a commission to review the projects and form the referendum question.
Greenwood County’s commission makeup includes three members appointed by County Council with the remaining three seats made up of the county’s municipalities based on population, meaning the city of Greenwood takes two seats with Ware Shoals and Ninety Six sharing a seat.
The county must appoint the commission 30 days prior to the referendum. After the commission makeup, the rest essentially falls on the counties on how to pursue examining requests throughout the county.
Greenwood County Manager Toby Chappell said the county is still in the organizational stage, working on how the process will work and how it will receive proposed projects.
“We’re putting that organization together as we speak,” Chappell said.
Chappell said there are two primary reasons for pursuing capital sales tax, which are millage increase restrictions from the state and avoiding debt.
Act 388 puts a limit on how much counties and municipalities can raise property taxes, making it difficult to make large capital purchases, such as new fire stations and other public buildings.
“You can’t do this in a normal budget cycle without taking out any debt,” Chappell said.
The other bonus is avoiding debt and raising the funds in bulk for the big purchases with about 40 percent of the funds coming from people living outside of Greenwood County.
“The good portion of this money comes from people who do not live in Greenwood. We are the regional hub of this area,” Chappell said.
Brown previously announced possible projects for the county, including the implementation of the rural fire master plan, a speculative building for industrial and manufacturing recruitment, an advanced manufacturing training facility at Piedmont Technical College, Civic Center recreation complex revitalization and county road improvements.
“We are going to be like all the other entities. We are going to have a list of projects that we are going to advocate to the committee to be funded,” Chappell said.
The county had successfully passed a capital sales tax in 2006, taking effect in fiscal year 2008, and eventually raising about $43 million in less than six years. Each year ranged from about $8 million to about $8.6 million. A capital sales tax can be implemented for up to eight years and seven years if reimposed.
The county still has a fund balance of about $21 million, which could be used for any updates needed for the Buzzard Roost dam determined from the recent findings of a hydrology study.
The county used about $9.4 million to build the new library off Main Street. About $12 million was used to pay off the county’s remaining debt after savings from the first phase of work on the dam, which required just more than $1 million.
Chappell said the county has yet to determine how much the tax would raise now and is still working with the state Department of Revenue.
While county growth is evident, the tax revenue could be affected by the 2009 adjustment to state statute exempting unprepared food, such as groceries, from being taxed the 1 percent.
PUBLIC MEETINGS: Oct. 4
/in UncategorizedMONDAY
GREENWOOD COUNTY FIRST STEPS
FULL PARTNERSHIP BOARD
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION: 1402-C Highway 72 W.
GREEMWOOD PARKS COMMISSION
GREATER GREENWOOD PARKS AND TRAILS FOUNDATION
TIME: 1 p.m.
LOCATION: T.W. Boons, 405 Main St.
TUESDAY
ABBEVILLE AREA MEDICAL CENTER
TIME: noon.
LOCATION: administrative building, boardroom.
AGENDA:Called meeting.
SALUDA TOWN COUNCIL
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION: town hall, 100 S. Jefferson St.
AGENDA: Department reports; second reading, ordinance regarding Saluda Park fees; approval of 2016 council schedule and holiday closings; approval of Christmas parade date and time; discussion of indigent defense. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss real estate transaction and court matters. Afterward, possible actions from closed meeting; public comments; council comments.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE COMMITTEE
TIME: 4 p.m.
LOCATION: Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium.
AGENDA: Amending Ordinance 2004-18 of the Greenwood county Code of Ordinance to include maintenance within the project boundaries of Lake Greenwood and corresponding resolution; resolution establishing regulations for excavating within the project boundaries of Lake Greenwood; resolution regarding encroachments upon Lake Greenwood subject to certain restrictive covenants of a subdivision or neighborhood; revision to Greenwood County Policy 10.4, Procurement Policy, pertaining to council approval; audit services recommendation; resolution in support of the issuance by S.C. Jobs-Economic Development Authority of its health facilities revenue bonds (Wesley Commons Project) Series 2015, pursuant to the provisions of Title 41, Chapter 43, of the Code of Laws of South Carolina 1976, in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed $25 million; presentation of proposed Greenwood County road acceptance standards; Resolution 2015-26 to partner with Greenwood Regional Tourism and Visitors Bureau and SC Festival of Flowers; appointment of Rudolph Wise (2-year), Henry Cowins (3-year), and Joe L. Norman (4-year) as commissioners for Aspen Heights Special Tax District; appointment of Dorothy Spencer (2-year), Tommy Lee Chamberlin (3-year), and Rosa Marie Freeman (4-year) as commissioners for Country Homes Special Tax District; resolution adopting millages necessary to provide tax revenues for operating and capital budges of Greenwood County and for educational purposes in Greenwood County for fiscal year that began July 1; recommendation to award Pace Pavement Technologies the airport ramp repairs contract, for $132,719.20; consider a proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; consider a proposed boundary line agreement with Kevin and Donna Hutchinson; request to purchase Sharp MX-M354N Copier/Scan/Fax for delinquent tax collector, for $4,236.82 from SCM Office Systems; request to purchase Piatec USA ES8000 Fold and Seal Machine for delinquent tax collector, for $7,234.60 from Whitaker Brothers; request to purchase Phaser 4510N Laser Printer for delinquent tax collector for $451.06 from Orion Printers and Parts; clerk to council update. Pending items: Backwater Road, Newport Subdivision; DNR funding for Lake Greenwood Master Plan; Public Safety Training Facility. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss: 1) proposed contractual arrangements pertaining to a referendum for a Capital Project Sales Tax; 2) discuss matters relating to the proposed location, expansion, or the provision of services encouraging location or expansion of industries or other businesses in the area served by the public body; 3) receipt of legal advice where the legal advice relates matters covered by the attorney client privilege.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME: 5:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium.
AGENDA: Public comment, sign-in only. Public appearance, Pier Ninety Six, Gladys Woodcock and Pat Simpson. Third reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 2004-18 of Greenwood County Code of Ordinances to include Maintenance within the project boundaries of Lake Greenwood and corresponding resolution; resolution regarding encroachments upon Lake Greenwood subject to certain restrictive covenants of a subdivision or neighborhood; revision to Greenwood County Policy 10.4, Procurement Policy, pertaining to council approval; audit services recommendation; resolution to partner with Greenwood Regional Tourism and Visitors Bureau and the SC Festival of Flowers; appointment of Rudolph Wise (2-year), Henry Cowins (3-year), and Joe L. Norman (4-year) as Tax Commissioner for Aspen Heights Special Tax District; appointment of Dorothy Spencer (2-year), Tommy Lee Chamberlin (3-year), and Rosa Marie Freeman (4-year) as Tax commissioners for Country Homes Special Tax District; resolution adopting millages necessary to provide tax revenues for the operating and capital budgets of Greenwood County and for educational purposes in Greenwood County for fiscal year that began July 1; recommendation to award Pace Pavement Technologies the airport ramp repairs contract, $132,719.20; consider proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; consider proposed boundary line agreement with Kevin and Donna Hutchinson; request to purchase Sharp MX-M354N Copier/Scan/Fax for delinquent tax collector, $4,236.82 from SCM Office Systems; request to purchase Piatec USA ES8000 Fold and Seal Machine for delinquent tax collector, $7,234.60 from Whitaker Brothers; request to purchase Phaser 4510N Laser Printer for delinquent tax collector, $451.06 from Orion Printers and Parts. District reports. Manager’s report — loud boat noise on Lake Greenwood. (If needed) Closed meeting.
WEDNESDAY
McCORMICK COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES
TIME: 6 p.m. closed meeting; regular session at 7:30.
LOCATION: 821 N. Mine St.
AGENDA: Closed meeting to discuss personnel matters. Open session begins at 7:30: discuss closed meeting items; review of policy, Sessions E and F(1). Additional closed meeting if needed.
THURSDAY
GREENWOOD CPW
TIME: 10 a.m.
LOCATION: 121 W. Court Ave., boardroom.
AGENDA: Bid Openings: HSP No. 8 Pump overhaul; gas meters; gas meter ERTs; mini excavator for gas department; Microsoft license renewal; Cisco switch; postage machine. Consider bids for flooring at water treatment plant; consider requisition for Tantalus server; consider amended revised Rate Schedule 34; consider bids for Zeta meter. Other business. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss legal and contractual matters.
This week’s public meetings
/in UncategorizedMONDAY
GREENWOOD CITY COUNCIL
TIME: 5:30 p.m.
LOCATION: municipal building, council chambers.
NINETY SIX TOWN COUNCIL
TIME:6 p.m.
LOCATION: Visitors Center.
AGENDA: Greenwood fire fees; set date for 2015-16 budget review; committee reports; department reports. (If needed) Closed meeting.
GREENWOOD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 50 TRUSTEES
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION: Genesis Education Center, 400 Glenwood St., boardroom.
AGENDA: Superintendent’s report: first day of school; recognitions; superintendent evaluation; board evaluation. Summer professional development; Gifted and Talented State Plan; emergency mock crisis drill; facilities update; financial update. Open forum. Action items: bond resolution; digital technology and content. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss student, personnel and contractual matters. Afterward, more action Items: personnel recommendations and vacancies.
TUESDAY
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE COMMITTEE
TIME:4 p.m.
LOCATION: Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium
AGENDA: Resolution in support of The Greenwood Promise; Public Safety Training Facility Committee update. Consider proposed boundary line agreements: Michael Rampey and Roby Hale; James and Diane Poston; James and Jean Parsons. Replacement of communications console furniture; presentation of a proclamation recognizing Aug. 23-29 as Aviation Week in Greenwood County; and recognition of 2015 Aviation Expo Steering Committee. Recommendation to increase fee collection for Woodbury Special Tax District for 2015, to $225; and the county continue to pay services to allow Woodbury to resolve their deficit fund balance of $2,639.34. Appointment of Phillip Willingham, 2 year term, as a replacement commissioner for Vanona Carter for Hunters Glenn Special Tax District; ordinance creating a special tax district to be comprised of real property within the Grace Court Townhouses, and other matters related thereto. Ordinance creating a special tax district to be comprised of real property within Auburn Place, and other matters related thereto; discussion of capital project sales tax process; Veterans Affairs monument update. Pending items: Backwater Road, Newport Subdivision; road acceptance standards; DNR funding for Lake Greenwood Master Plan; boundary line agreement with James Cunningham. (If needed) Closed meeting, receive legal advice, personnel matter.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME: 5:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium
AGENDA: Public comment (sign-in only). Recognition of 2015 Aviation Expo Steering Committee; proclamation recognizing Aug. 23-29 as Aviation Week in Greenwood County. Third reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 2013-12, pertaining to unsafe structures, by including swimming pools as a structure and the maintenance of swimming pools; third reading, ordinance to amend the Greenwood County Zoning, being Ordinance 13-82, by amending the text of Sections 6-3-43 (Light Industrial), 6-3-44 I-2 (Heavy Industrial), 6-3-47 RDD (Rural Development District), and 6-3-108 (Accessory Structures) adding solar farms as conditional uses and listing the conditions under which solar panels may be utilized as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts; resolution in support of The Greenwood Promise; first reading, ordinance creating a special tax district to be comprised of real property within the Grace Court Townhouses, and other matters related thereto; first reading, ordinance creating a special tax district to be comprised of real property within Auburn Place, and other matters related thereto. Consider proposed boundary line agreements: Michael Rampey and Roby Hale; James and Diane Poston; James and Jean Parsons. Veterans Affairs monument update; funding request for replacement communication console furniture; appointment of Phillip Willingham, 2 year term, as a replacement commissioner for Vanona Carter for Hunters Glenn Special Tax District; recommendation to increase fee collection for Woodbury Special Tax District from $110 to $225 for fiscal year 2015-2016; and the county continue to pay services to allow Woodbury to resolve their deficit fund balance of $2,639.34. District reports; manager’s report. (If needed) Closed meeting, receive legal advice; personnel matters.
WARE SHOALS TOWN COUNCIL
TIME: 6:30 p.m.
LOCATION: town hall, 8 Mill St
McCORMICK COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME: 7 p.m.
LOCATION: administration center, 610 S. Mine St.
AGENDA: Speaker: Mayor Roy Smith, Town of McCormick. Decision items: consider carrying over $145,800 from the 2014-15 fiscal year budget or SLV Road improvements to 2015-16 fiscal year budget as a restricted fund balance; consider appointing Chris Nied to SLV Tax Commission to serve out the remainder of John Wright’s term; consider authorizing administrator the use of $1,700 from Keturah account to begin the grant process for the MACK park seating project; consider authorizing the use of $291.90 from the Economic Development account for use to purchase a computer for the Economic Development office; consider authorizing administrator to accept proposals from architectural firms to provide assessments on county buildings; consider authorizing administrator to accept proposals from qualified consultants to perform a classification-compensation study for all employees and positions. Committee reports. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice concerning Terranova Group and school board, contractual matters concerning economic development and personnel matters concerning Emergency Services. Information items: SLV Special Tax District meeting minutes for July; letter from Mayor E.M. Winn Jr. concerning Plum Branch Fire Department funding; thank you from McCormick Humane Society; letter from SCDOT; information on Senior Center.
ABBEVILLE CITY COUNCIL
TIME: 6:30 p.m.
LOCATION: Opera House, 100 Court Square, council chambers.
AGENDA: Budget work session. Presentation, 2016 general fund city budget, solid waste fund and hospitality fund. Discussion of budget by city council.
Industrial park possible catalyst for spec building
/in Uncategorized“If we can get them here, we can sell them.” That’s the stated mindset of Heather Simmons Jones, chief executive officer for the county’s economic development arm Greenwood Partnership Alliance.
This mentality is driving Greenwood County’s plans to entice businesses to move here through an industrial park, which is why the county paid $645,000 for more than 140 acres on Highway 25 North near Hodges for such a park.
The North Greenwood Industrial Park will neighbor SPF North America, Colgate-Palmolive and UTC Aerospace Systems.
“Seven of the projects received during the month of July that were looking for sites, of those, five submitted to the North Greenwood Industrial Park,” James Bateman, business development manager for the Partnership, said. “So, five out of seven. And, if it were not for the Greenwood County North Industrial Park, we would have only been able to submit on two of those.”
Jones said the Partnership has reached out to projects that showed interest in the industrial site to give the prospective businesses the latest update: the site is now publicly controlled, working on site certification and will receive improvements.
The county previously worked to develop an industrial park where SPF now operates. SPF purchased the interior lot and has invested $12 million in expanding its operation.
The new park awaits site certification from the state Department of Commerce and the county may development a speculative building, which could be built with capital sales tax funds.
Greenwood County Council Chairman Steve Brown announced last month during his State of the County address plans for the county to place a capital sales tax question on the 2016 referendum, which voters will decide during the presidential elections.
Brown included five possible projects for the tax that will be vetted by an appointed committee, including the possible construction of a spec building.
Jones supports building a spec building in the county, which he said is gaining popularity among economic developers and prospective businesses from the attractiveness of having infrastructure and a footprint already in place.
The proposed site plan for the new industrial park includes a phase one optimal site at the front of the property along the highway.
“Whether we’re talking about a shovel- or pad-ready site, whether we’re talking about a shovel- or pad-ready site with a virtual spec building or talking about a shovel- and pad-ready site that becomes a spec building, that’s the targeted area,” Jones said. “It requires the least amount of infrastructure to be run. It has the highest level of visibility. We feel it’s the most optimal point to start the development of the park.”
The Partnership is working with investors and partners to get estimates for clearing, grubbing and grading the site, and is also working with an engineering firm on a conceptual entrance and exit to accommodate trucks.
Council recently approved a memorandum of understanding, which is commonly a first stage of a formal contract, between the county and the Partnership laying out roles for the involved parties as the park moves forward in becoming shovel ready.
Once the site becomes certified, the county will receive and transfer $50,000 from the Department of Commerce to the Partnership as part of its reimbursement program.
“Through our County Council’s investment, we will be able to leverage funds from the state Department of Commerce and other outside entities,” Jones said.
Brown said during an administration and finance meeting last month that there is an understanding that funds from the Partnership and other entities would go only so far toward the industrial part and the county would look into what money was available.
Jones said early estimates put the project anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 for clearing, grubbing, grading and roadwork, while curbing and signage will be looked at later.
Council will soon discuss options for what to do with the proceeds from the property’s sale, including possibly setting aside the funds to support future economic development, after staff reviews each option.
“You can’t sell something you don’t have,” Ray Brooks, president of Piedmont Technical College and Partnership board member, said of the recent acquisition of the industrial park. “It takes somebody with vision to step out and make a decision and invest.
“People are not going to invest in you if you don’t invest in yourself,” he continued. “I think it’s a combination of the county and the city in doing the things they have done in making Greenwood a more attractive location.”
Leaders share state of city, county
/in UncategorizedThe fiery twang of Mayor Welborn Adams’ impassioned speech was followed by the steady, undisguised rhetoric of County Council Chairman Steve Brown.
Each sharing in the excitement and dedication to one cause: Pursuing Greenwood’s potential.
While Adams expressed his pleasure Friday with the many projects underway and the many to follow during the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce’s State of the City and County Address, Brown shared in the opportunities present with a full plate of duties, requests and, at times, demands.
“I am convinced today that many other governmental jurisdictions would give anything if their county government had our full plate,” Brown said.
Brown took the opportunity to officially announce the county’s intent to immediately pursue placing a capital sales tax referendum on the 2016 ballot and named five possible projects, including the implementation of the rural fire master plan, a speculative building for industrial and manufacturing recruitment, an advanced manufacturing training facility at Piedmont Technical College, Civic Center recreation complex revitalization and county road improvements.
“Isn’t it great to live in a community where such good things are happening and our future looks bright? However, with most opportunities, it requires some type of revenue stream to make things happen. Because of state laws, County Council does not have the capacity to generate the needed revenue to fund projects that require millions of dollars of capital,” Brown said.
Next steps include the appointment of a committee to vet projects that would be included on the referendum question per statutory requirements.
Jerry Timmons, director of the advocacy committee for the chamber, shared that the chamber has organized public forums to gauge the public and professional interest in certain projects and will report soon to council.
Adams reported on Uptown’s biggest project, the Uptown Market, that is on schedule to be completed by the end of the year, including the “biggest splash pad in the state next year.”
Other projects included the city’s continued streetscape upgrades at Riley and Magnolia avenues and the possibility of updating the arcades that provide second-story access to Uptown’s buildings along Main Street. Adams referred to the arcades as a unifying aspect of the Uptown and are in need of love.
“We’re in the midst of a real construction boom in Uptown,” said Adams, standing in front of a large screen showing the prowess of three of the city center’s largest buildings — the old textile building at 332 Main St. turning into luxury apartments and retail space, the first-floor retail space of the Greenwood Building and the Inn on the Square, which recently acquired longtime and former Montague’s Restaurant executive chef David Epps.
More construction projects included the demolition of Mineral Court Apartments to make room for a sprawling Habitat for Humanity community along with Auburn Place subdivision offering new residential in city limits. Wal-Mart and Save-A-Lot represented the new business side, bringing in more jobs and more tax dollars.
Adams also shared positive perspective on the two utilities, Greenwood Metropolitan District and Commissioners of Public Works, who have continued sewer and water line rehabilitation and replacement throughout the city.
The mayor also was grateful for the work of public safety with the fire department receiving new equipment and carrying an ISO rating of two, which influences homeowners insurance rates based on an area’s fire coverage.
The police department has seen a 68.6 percent reduction in violent crime, while not one firearm-related homicide occurred in 2014, according to Adams.
“With everything that’s happened across America in other places, the thing I’m probably most proud of with Chief (Gerald) Brooks is that we did not have one case reported with excessive use of force, not one single case,” said Adams, who insisted on applause for the police department’s good conduct.
Brown harped on the economic development the county has seen and will continue to see, hinting at a new industry announcement soon while sharing news that the county is pursuing the construction of a speculative building in partnership with Greenwood Partnership Alliance at the recently-acquired North Greenwood Industrial Park.
He added that the development of the Piedmont Tech advanced manufacturing training facility will contribute in keeping the workforce trained during that economic growth.
The county’s fire services will see vast improvements during the next eight years from a new master plan that will help replace aging equipment and stations with movement towards a countywide service.
The Greenwood County Airport has seen $3.1 million in improvements to runways with 95 percent of funds coming from the state or federal governments and hosted another successful Aviation Expo this year.
On the money side, County Council was able to pass a balanced budget with no millage increase after many hours of deliberations over the course of four months. The county also enjoyed being debt-free for a second year after about $10 million worth of debt was retired last year.
The Lake Greenwood Master Plan will be a focus for the future and is being developed by Orion Planning Group with input from Preserve Lake Greenwood and Connect Lake Greenwood, a joint initiative of Greenwood, Laurens, Newberry and Ninety Six chambers of commerce to boost local businesses and economic development around the lake.
“The master plan is a must if we decide to have this valuable asset to enjoy for our citizens now and the years to come,” Brown said. “The plan will include natural resources and environment, tourism and quality of life, land use, economic development, infrastructure and land use elements.”
Brown also had a message for neighboring Laurens County, whose water and sewer commission is working to secure a permit to allow them to withdraw a daily maximum of 6 million gallons of raw water from Lake Greenwood.
“We have asked to meet with the Laurens County Council to discuss this request. We cannot ask the citizens of Greenwood to continue to cover the expense of maintaining Lake Greenwood while Laurens County and its water and sewer commission withdraw raw water that will be treated and used to compete directly with us on residential, commercial and industrial development,” Brown said to applause.
Adams emphatically praised the efforts of the city and county in working together on a number of projects and in a variety of departments.
“We do this better than anyone else in the state. Nowhere else in the state will you see a county and city work together in as many areas as you see in Greenwood,” Adams said. “If you’re paying taxes, you are getting great value out of the city and county, because they are providing services at an unheard of level in this state.”
Both parties continually expressed gratitude for the hard work of the city and county councils and staffs.
PUBLIC MEETINGS: July 19
/in UncategorizedMONDAY
SALUDA COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:9 a.m.
LOCATION:Saluda County EMS Headquarters, 154 Medical Park Road, Saluda.
AGENDA:council members at Saluda County EMS Headquarters for informal gathering to meet Saluda County EMS staff.
GREENWOOD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT 50 TRUSTEES
TIME: 6 p.m.
LOCATION:Genesis Education Center, 400 Glenwood St., boardroom.
AGENDA: Information Items: retiree recognition; Administrative Leadership Team in-service, 8 a.m. July 30, Genesis Eduation Center (GEC); new teacher welcome, 3 p.m. Aug. 11, Northside Middle School; opening of school ceremony, 9 a.m. Aug. 13, Emerald High School; school/staff recognition; superintendent evaluation, board evaluation; iTEAMS camp; mock district drill; minority business activity; financial update. Open forum. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss student, personnel, contractual matters. Afterward, action item: personnel recommendations and vacancies.
GREENWOOD CITY COUNCIL
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:municipal building, council chambers, room 207.
AGENDA: Public hearing and second reading, ordinance to adopt by reference Greenwood County Ordinance No. 2015-01. Public hearing and second reading, ordinance amending Greenwood Code of Ordinances Section 6-139 and Section 6-144. Public hearing and second reading, ordinance to establish various inspection related fees. Public hearing and first reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 03-010, Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 2, Definitions; Chapter 3, Section 3.2.1.2., Conditional Uses Allowed in All Residential Districts; and Sections 3.2.2.2., 3.3.4.2., 3.3.5.2., and 3.4.2.2., Conditional Uses Allowed. Second reading, ordinance to rezone parcel of land at 1148 Edgefield St., 0.78 acre, from High Density Residential Office Professional. First reading, ordinance amending City of Greenwood Taxicab Ordinance; first reading, ordinance deleting Sections 10-27 and 10-53 of City of Greenwood Code of Ordinances; consider authorizing mayor to sign retention schedule for Hospitality and Accommodations Tax forms; consider re-appointing Jennifer Duffie to Housing Authority Board of Commissioners. (If needed) closed meeting to discuss construction contractual matter regarding Riley/Magnolia Streetscape; to discuss legal matter regarding Edward Lee Elmore litigation. City council comments; city manager comments.
NINETY SIX TOWN COUNCIL
TIME:6 p.m.
LOCATION:Visitors Center.
AGENDA:Charles Newton, Century Link, Greenwood County fire fee; committee reports; department reports. (If needed) closed meeting.
TUESDAY
ABBEVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES
TIME: 4 p.m.
LOCATION:administrative building, 400 Greenville St.
AGENDA:board policy workshop.
ABBEVILLE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TRUSTEES
TIME:7 p.m.
LOCATION:administrative building, 400 Greenville St.
AGENDA:begin with closed meeting; then, regular session.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE COMMITTEE
TIME:4 p.m.
LOCATION:Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium, 600 Main St. S.
AGENDA: Quarterly investment performance update of Greenwood County operating and electric capital accounts (April-June 2015); Public Safety Training Facility Committee update; discuss request to award a bid for 20 4RE In-Car Camera Systems and one Evidence Library Express Standalone Software to Watch Guard Digital In-Car Video for Sheriff’s Office; update on proposed draft for bicycle and pedestrian improvements in and around the City of Greenwood; appointment of Steven M. Pruitt (2-year term), James L. Martin (3-year term) and Dennis R. Hammett (4-year term) as commissioners for Forrest Hills Special Tax District; consider proposed boundary line agreement with Roger and Cheryl Descoteaux; consider proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; resolution to appropriate funding from Capital Project Sales Tax for pre-design work at Buzzard Roost Project; resolution adopting memorandum of understanding between Greenwood County and Greenwood Partnership Alliance for marketing and development of the North Greenwood Industrial Park. Pending items: Backwater Road, Newport Subdivision; road acceptance standards; DNR funding for Lake Greenwood Master Plan. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice.
GREENWOOD COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium, 600 Main St. S.
AGENDA: Public comment (sign-in only). Public hearing and second reading, ordinance amending Ordinance 2013-12, pertaining to unsafe structures, by including swimming pools as a structure and the maintenance of swimming pools Public meeting and second reading, ordinance amending Greenwood County Zoning, being Ordinance 13-82, by amending the text of Sections 6-3-43 (Light Industrial), 6-3-44 I-2 (Heavy Industrial, 6-3-47 RDD (Rural Development District), and 6-3-108 Accessory Structures by adding solar farms as conditional uses and listing the conditions under which solar panels may be utilized as an accessory use in all residential zoning districts. Consider request to award a bid for 20 4RE In-Car Camera Systems and one Evidence Library Express Standalone Software to Watch Guard Digital In-Car Video for the Sheriff’s Office; resolution adopting a memorandum of understanding between Greenwood County and Greenwood Partnership Alliance for marketing and development of the North Greenwood Industrial Park; appointment of Steven M. Pruitt (2 year term), James L. Martin (3 year term), and Dennis R. Hammett (4 year term) as Commissioners for Forrest Hills Special Tax District; consider proposed boundary line agreement with Roger and Cheryl Descoteaux; consider proposed boundary line agreement with James Cunningham; consider acceptance of negotiated taxes to be paid by Contech Forgings, LLC; resolution to appropriate funding from Capital Project Sales Tax for pre-design work at Buzzard Roost Project. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice.
WARE SHOALS TOWN COUNCIL
TIME:6:30 p.m.
LOCATION:town hall, 8 Mill St.
McCORMICK COUNTY COUNCIL
TIME:7 p.m.
LOCATION: administration center, 610 S. Mine St., McCormick.
AGENDA: Introduction of Thessa Smith, economic development director. Public hearing and third reading, ordinance making provision for tax anticipation borrowing by McCormick County, in a principal amount not exceeding $1 million, in anticipation of collection of ad valorem taxes for fiscal year beginning July 1; to prescribe the terms and conditions of such borrowing and the form of note to be executed evidencing the same; and to make provision for the payment thereof. Consider accepting the low bidder of the IT services for McCormick County; consider authorizing county administrator signing a memorandum of understanding with CompuDoc for IT services for McCormick County; consider appointing Dale Cullum to Upper Savannah Workforce Development Board; consider authorizing the administrator to coordinate with Public Works director to assist the Senior Center per attachment No. 3; consider the name for the Industrial Site in Plum Branch. Committee reports. (If needed) Closed meeting to receive legal advice concerning Terranova Group. Information items: SLV Special Tax District meeting minutes for June 2015; letter of thanks from Mims Community Center No. 3; McCormick County Transportation 2015-16 C Fund revenue; email from Kenny Jones, recreation director; letter from Carolina Health Centers.
PIEDMONT TECH AREA COMMISSION
TIME:5:30 p.m.
LOCATION:Lex Walters Campus, John S. Coleman Administration Building, room 222-A.
AGENDA: Report from Nominating Committee; policy revisions; financial review; introduction to Institutional Scorecard; Commissioners’ Foundation Liaison Report; president’s report.
WEDNESDAY
GREENWOOD METROPOLITAN DISTRICT COMMISSIONERS
TIME:3 p.m.
LOCATION:Emmett F. Brooks Facility, 110 Metro Drive, commission room.
AGENDA: Partnership Alliance report; Park Sterling Investment reports; June finance reports for information and review; manager’s report. (If needed) Closed meeting.
THURSDAY
GREENWOOD CPW
TIME: 10 a.m.
LOCATION:121 W. Court Ave., boardroom.
AGENDA: Report from County Bank; financial statement; bid opening, bill forms and envelopes; consider fund transfer; consider establishing Water Rate Stabilization Fund; consider addition to Electric Rate Stabilization Fund; consider Elevated Water Tank Agreement; consider check exchange with City of Greenwood; consider amended NTE Agreement; consider bids for Ben Franklin Water Extension; other business. (If needed) Closed meeting to discuss legal and contractual matters.
Brewer High School Class of 1964, meeting, 5 p.m. today at American Legion Post 224 (The Hut).
The Brewer High Class of 1966, meeting, 11 a.m. July 25 (fourth Saturdays) at Brewer Complex Cafeteria. Call 864-227-8538 or 864-223-8245.
Family of the Rev. William L (Billy Lee) and Trannie Johnson, reunion 1 p.m. July 26, at Mountain Creek Baptist Church, Kirksey. Bring covered dish. Call Mac McDowell, 864-230-8121.
All former workers of Chemstrand, Monsanto, Solutia and Ascend, friendship-fellowship gathering 5 p.m. Aug. 2 at Mount Zion Baptist Church, Highway 246 (Coronaca).
Brewer High School Class of 1968, meeting, 1 p.m. Aug. 8 at Brewer Complex. Call 864-554-3657.
Freeland-Crawford, descendants of James Manning Corey Freeland and Caroline Augusta Butler Freeland, reunion 12:45 p.m. Aug. 9, Plum Branch Baptist Church, fellowship hall. Bring picnic lunch, tea.
Descendants of Arthur and Ellie Williams, Hodges, reunion is Aug. 15-16. All interested persons should call Maya Moss for registration and payment details: 864-320-8349.
Brewer High School Class of 1963, meeting, 5 p.m. Aug. 15 (third Saturdays) at Brewer Complex. Call 864-229-6389 or 864-223-1095.
Brewer High School Class of 1970, meeting, 5 p.m. Aug. 16, at the home of Vivian Archie. Final reunion payment due.
Greenwood High School Class of 2005, reunion 6-10 p.m. Aug. 22 at The Links at Stoney Point. Contact Katie Finkbeiner Engram, katiefinkbeiner@gmail.com.
Carroll Family, meeting, 2 p.m. Sept. 13 at Jermaine Moss home. Planning 2016 reunion; dues collection will begin — $50, ages 13 and older; $25, ages 3-12. Email: sccarrollfamilyreunion@yahoo.com.
SECOND (INDIANHEAD) DIVISION ASSOCIATIONis searching for anyone who served in the Army’s 2nd Infantry Division at any time. For information about the association and the 94th annual reunion Sept. 22-26 in San Antonio, Texas, contact Bob Haynes, secretary-treasurer, at 2idahq@comcast.net or 224-225-1202.
USS LONG BEACH (CGN-9) ASSOCIATION,reunion Sept. 14-20 at the Wyndham Jacksonville Riverwalk, 1515 Prudential Drive, Jacksonville, Fla., 32207; room rate $96. Call 904-396-5100 for reservation; identify as reunion member. For more information, contact: Don Shade, 866-352-2469 or 716-569-2314; email lbcgn9@aol.com; website www.usslongbeach-assoc.org.
Monday — 9:30-10 a.m., Shepherd’s Flock; 10:15-10:45, Learning Vine; 11:15-11:45, St. Paul AME; 1:45-2:30 p.m., Housing Authority; 3-3:30, Weston Chapel; 4:10-4:20, Sherwood Lane; 4:30-4:45, CTH.
Tuesday — 9:10-9:20 a.m., Ashley Place; 9:30-9:45, Bayberry Retirement; 10-10:30, Hampton House; 10-11, Little River (last); 11:30-12:30, Magnolia Park (last).
Wednesday — 9:30-10:15 a.m., Lifetime Discoveries; 10:30-11, Sunshine House Learning Academy 2; 11-11:30, Faith Camp; noon-1 p.m., PLEAD; 3;30-4, Phoenix Apartments; 4:15-4:45, Emerald Workshop.
Thursday — 10-11 a.m., YMCA.
Article Link: Chamber readying for possible capital sales tax vote
/in Index-JournalChamber readying for possible capital sales tax vote
/in UncategorizedIn anticipation of a possible push to place capital projects sales tax projects on the 2016 referendum, the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce leadership has been hosting a number of listening sessions.
The leadership met with residents and business owners Monday night at the Arts Center to discuss possible projects that could be supported by the 1-percent tax that would be limited to eight years.
Jerry Timmons, chairman of the advocacy committee for the chamber, said the tax is anticipated to raise about $10 million a year and can be used for brick-and-mortar projects.
The tax, which would need to be approved by Greenwood County Council, cannot be used for operational costs, but could include new buildings, road improvement, water and sewer projects, and drainage projects among others.
Timmons said reports show that 40 percent of the tax would be paid by out-of-town individuals. The total amount would have to be earmarked for specific projects before hitting the referendum.
The referendum would include the specific projects that would be vetted and prioritized by a six-member commission appointed by council.
Anne Drake of Drake, Drake & Associates shared interest in restoring the recreation center on Seaboard Avenue that has fallen in disrepair.
Drake also shared interest in developing public transportation.
“If you don’t have a car, it’s very hard to have a job,” Drake said at the meeting.
Timmons said partnerships would have to be formed in order to establish other funding sources for revenue, however, the sales tax could be used for buildings and the purchase of new buses.
“We feel confident the county’s not going to put something together that’s not sustainable,” Timmons said.
A new animal shelter, which has been a topic for discussion among County Council, was also mentioned. That price tag will not be determined until after a design is created, which is underway, and bid.
The Greenwood Civic Center lot, off Highway 72/221, which is in the process of being cleared, could be the site of a water park, pool or another project supported by the tax.
Parks also came into focus, including the Grace Street Park, which is in development, and a park serving south Greenwood, where many residents of the area have expressed interest.
Chamber president and chief executive officer Angelle LaBorde expressed a need for a conference center that could handle conferences and businesses in need of multiple and various-sized rooms.
Chamber board chairman David Tompkins said a focus should also be kept on attracting and keeping young professionals in the area, which could be done focusing on recreational and sports opportunities.
“We’ve got to focus things along those lines — looking 10 to 15 years down the road,” Tompkins said.
Many of the projects brought up at the meeting, including speculative buildings, professional training facilities and infrastructure, were indicative of opportunities for future partnerships with public and private funding.
“If there were a viable project, all the money does not have to come from capital sales tax. There are various funding solutions that could be used,” Timmons said.
LaBorde said the chamber will continue to compile ideas to present to council in the future to help give a voice to the business community in developing future projects to receive capital sales tax dollars.
Chamber to host focus group
/in UncategorizedGreenwood County residents are invited to participate in a Capital Project focus group, facilitated by the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 p.m. Monday at the Arts Center at the Federal Building, 120 Main Street. The Chamber’s Advocacy Committee has been collecting ideas and input from its member businesses on possible Greenwood County capital project sales tax initiatives and now wishes to solicit input from the public.
Attendees will learn about the referendum process and have a chance to voice their ideas regarding new projects and initiatives. Greenwood County Council may put a referendum before the voters to support one or more capital projects, most likely on the 2016 ballot. The Chamber plans to present its findings to a committee of the Council charged with this specific task.
There is no cost to attend, but pre-registration is encouraged. Pre-register by calling the Chamber at 864-223-8431, ext. 226.
PUBLIC MEETING
/in UncategorizedTHURSDAY
CAPITAL PROJECT SALES TAX
PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
TIME: 1 p.m.
LOCATION: Greenwood County Library Veterans Auditorium.
AGENDA: Discussion of Capital Project Sales Tax Projects for Public Safety.