Jaharra Graves

The meeting included employee anniversaries and recognition of new hires and promotions. The Main Street South Carolina Inspiration Awards were presented for the pollinator planters program and contributions to downtown Bennettsville. A hate crime ordinance was presented by the NAACP. The council discussed a building services contract with CCI, election filing fees, and board appointments to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning & Housing Appeals, and Lake Authority Board. Updates were provided on the city's financial status, grant progress, and upcoming events. The council addressed utility billing, animal control issues, and a community information session. Concerns were raised about noise from parties in residential neighborhoods and the need for revisions to relevant ordinances.

The council meeting included announcements of employee anniversaries and new hires, and the adoption of strategic goals focusing on communication, workforce development, technology modernization, and community engagement. The Finance Committee reported on positive revenue outcomes and the need for budget management. Discussions covered grants for the Lake Paul Wallace area, upcoming community events, a community development meeting, and a board training session. Council members thanked city employees and encouraged citizens to sign up for text alerts.

The council discussed the transfer of municipal elections to the county, rezoning of property on Center Street, and a public art ordinance. They also considered a new performance evaluation tool for city employees, engineering services for utility relocation, contracting utility management services, and renewal of a contract for tree pruning and vegetation management. Additionally, there were discussions on city vehicle policy, the purchase of a new fire truck, and follow-up on citizens' concerns, including the need for an official complaint process.

The meeting included recognition of employee anniversaries and introductions of new hires and promotions. Presentations were given by NETC regarding the expansion of their Marlboro County campus and by PDRTA requesting additional funding to avoid service cuts. Discussions covered a proposed affordable housing development, a joint ordinance for transferring municipal elections to the county, and a ground lease agreement with the WODA Company. The council also addressed road improvements, a city ordinance re-write, contracting grant services, and reports from various committees, including finance and public services. Upcoming community events were announced, and council members shared updates and concerns.

The meeting included presentations of employee anniversaries, new hires, and special recognitions. The 2024 annual audit was presented, showing a fund balance of just under $3.3 million. The FY 2025-2026 budget was discussed, including a 6.2% increase from last year with no increases to the millage rate but some increases in certain fees and permits. Council also discussed a personnel matter in an executive session and appointed a new Police Chief. Additionally, the council appointed a Mayor Pro Tempore.