Drew Godwin

The council meeting agenda included the first reading of ordinances concerning the 2026-2027 fiscal year budget and the re-zoning of property on Gourdin Street. The council addressed proclamations for Older Americans Month and Lupus Awareness. Additional topics included the discussion of an economic development plan, the transfer of a board member between the Beautification Board and the Architectural Review Board, and the recognition of senior athletes.

The key discussion items for this meeting included an invocation, verification of media notification, and approval of the meeting agenda. Significant agenda items involved presentations from the WTC Foundation and the Williamsburg Historical Society regarding the offer to sell 3.25 acres of vacant land along Nelson Boulevard. Additionally, discussions were scheduled regarding issues concerning Wee Nee Drive and the intersection of Wee Nee Drive and Reed Street, as well as signage for the Vital Aging Muraugh Center. The agenda concluded with comments from the Town Manager and non-agenda council comments.

The Kingstree Town Council meeting covered several key items. Discussion and approval of minutes from the February 19, 2024 meeting took place. The council tabled nominations for the Kingstree Board of Zoning and Appeals (BZA), pending a recommendation from the BZA committee. Mutual aid agreements with the Hemingway Police Department and Williamsburg County Sheriff's Department were approved. A loss prevention resolution (2024-04) was approved, and March was declared American Red Cross Month. Departmental updates were provided by the Police and Fire Chiefs, including information on staffing, ISO ratings, and equipment needs. The Finance Director provided a budget summary. The Town Manager reported on progress on the 2023 Water Improvement Project, the upcoming penny sales tax referendum, and staffing updates. Policy changes regarding security cameras were also discussed. An executive session was held to discuss a personnel matter. Finally, council members provided comments and thanks to various town employees and officials.

The council meeting addressed several key issues. Public comments included a proposal for an environmental awareness initiative involving a greenathon on Earth Day and concerns about homelessness in the community. The council approved Resolution 2024-03, Ordinance 2024-01 (Business License Rate Change), tabled a nomination for the Board of Zoning, and approved Dorethy A. Murray for the Kingstree Architectural Review Board. Resolution 2024-02 appointed Kipp Coker as the new Town Manager. The meeting also included a Main Street update and comments from the Town Manager regarding his retirement.