Michael Douglas Hemmer

The council discussed various items including the Fiscal Year 2024-2025 Annual Audit, a presentation on community science regarding coyotes, and an update on audio-visual equipment. The agenda included consideration of sidewalk construction proposals, repairs at Town Hall, and several proclamations and resolutions, such as recognizing the Island Sheriff Patrol of the Year and municipal safety improvements for Folly Road. Additionally, the council addressed zoning ordinance amendments, executive session matters regarding litigation and contracts, and received reports from various committees.

The commission discussed the importance of commemorating Black History Month, including potential improvements for future town-wide event promotion. Planning for the upcoming town market booths was addressed, with a focus on historical markers. Updates were provided on the status of various historical marker applications and potential cleanup projects at historic sites. The commission reviewed plans for an upcoming retreat and approved a recommendation to the Town Council to pursue a permanent memorial marker for the town's first mayor.

The council discussed various items including the annual audit presentation, a community science presentation on coyotes, and reports from the Mayor, finance, and various committees. Significant actions included the approval of funding for a new police vehicle, the approval of a Memorandum of Agreement for the James Island Creek TMDL monitoring program, and the first reading of an ordinance to increase the membership of the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals. Additionally, the council reviewed the town's financial status and held executive sessions to discuss legal matters.

Key discussions focused on Old Business items, including updates on raised medians for Ft. Johnson & Folly Roads and the SCDOT safety audit, noting SCDOT's consideration of restricting left turning traffic but not warranting signalization. The status of the Camp Road Middle School traffic seemed improved for the current year. An update was provided regarding the poor paving job on Greenhill Road, with assurances of a punch list for correction. Under New Business, Devri Detoma provided extensive updates on numerous County construction and infrastructure projects, including recent contract awards, projects under construction (Maybank and Woodland Shores), drainage work (Central Park), traffic light bids (Fort Johnson and Secessionville), and several projects slated for bidding or design in late 2025/2026, such as Folly Road bike/ped improvements and Sol Legare Sidewalk phase. The County also presented on the potential extension of the Transportation Sales Tax (TST) and requested project input. Legislative Updates covered James Island PSD projects like the Harbor View Force Main replacement and Fire Station #4 feasibility study, updates from the City of Charleston on upcoming community meetings (Art and Community Center, traffic light/roundabout), and School District news regarding academic ratings and facility openings. Outreach items included announcements for a winter clothing drive and Thanksgiving Service.

The meeting agenda included opening exercises and presentations from the SC Department of Transportation Program Manager regarding the Folly Road Safety Project, and an update from Senator Ed Sutton on the SCDOT Modernization Bill. The Council addressed requests for consideration concerning a new vehicle for a Town Deputy and meeting space requests from the Palmetto Fiber Arts Guild and Linus Blanket group. Committee reports covered various areas, including appointments to the Neighborhood Council. Proclamations and Resolutions included recognizing Women of Construction Week and honoring Black History Commemorations. An Ordinance was introduced to increase the membership of the Planning Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals. Under staff consideration, the Council approved pipe repairs at North Stiles Drive/Schaffer Street, Mayflower Drive, and Julia Street/Chandler. The Council also discussed opposing raised medians along Folly Road and requesting a traffic light at Santee Street. An executive session was held to discuss legal advice regarding litigation concerning KT Properties, LLC vs. Town of James Island.