Clarendon County

The meeting commenced with the approval of the current agenda. Discussions during public comments included reflections on Ms. Lang, a question regarding the Board stipend, and the clarification that stipends are state-reimbursed. The Chairman provided an update on mandatory State Election Commission (SEC) training, noting one member achieved certification. Old business addressed the schedule for the November 4, 2025, Town of Turbeville election certification meetings and the status of the Payroll Review Committee. New business involved the unanimous approval to transfer $7,500.00 from Contractual Services to the Voters/Elections Board Stipend line item to accommodate the state-mandated increase in the annual stipend per member from $1,500.00 to $2,500.00, effective July 1, 2025. Following an executive session concerning personnel matters and to discuss findings from the Payroll Review Committee, the board took action to request the County HR Director conduct a compliance review session for all office staff and voted to replace the Payroll Review Committee with a standing Budget Review Committee, granting it authority to review all office expenditures and revenue.

The meeting included discussions and a vote regarding Ordinance 2022-04, which authorizes the county to enter a lease-purchase agreement for vehicles for the Sheriff's Department and the Coroner's Office. The Clarendon County Transportation Committee (CTC) convened to discuss and approve a request from SCDOT to add specific streets in the City of Manning to the project list. The committee also discussed and approved a request for authorization of approval for repairs to the I-95 Lake Marion Bridge, with considerations for potential reimbursement from the state.

The meeting included an executive session for County Administrator interviews. The council then moved to approve the agenda and adjourned the meeting.

The Clarendon County Special Called Meeting involved discussions and a vote on the appointment of the County Administrator. Council members debated between hiring an external candidate, Mr. Walter Ackerman, and promoting from within, specifically considering Ms. Sharmane Anderson, the Deputy Administrator. Arguments were presented for both candidates, emphasizing experience, qualifications, and familiarity with the county. Ultimately, the council voted to offer the position to Mr. Walter Ackerman, with the Chairman casting the deciding vote due to a tie.

The Clarendon County Council meetings covered a range of topics including budget approvals for the school district, amendments to ordinances regarding utility tap fees and mobile food vendors, and discussions on infrastructure projects. The council also addressed personnel matters, recognized service award recipients, and considered requests for fund support for community events. Additionally, there were presentations, public hearings, and updates on various county projects and initiatives.