Nick Cauthen

The agenda includes several proclamations recognizing achievements such as the Fort Mill High School Wrestling Team state championship and a national air rifle championship, alongside declarations for Public Safety Telecommunicators' Week and National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Key business items involve the adoption of the 2025-2035 Comprehensive Plan, including a public hearing and zoning recommendations for specific properties. Additionally, the Council will discuss committee appointments, review the FY 24-25 audit report, and consider extending the municipal solid waste collection agreement with Signature Waste.

The agenda focuses on several key items including the recognition of community members and local achievements through various proclamations, the presentation of the FY 24-25 Audit Report, and the submission of committee and commission reports. New business items involve the consideration of recommendations regarding the 2025-2035 Comprehensive Plan and the annexation and rezoning of a property located at 1557 Hubert Graham Way. Furthermore, the Council will discuss the potential extension of the municipal solid waste collection agreement. The meeting also includes committee appointments and an executive session for legal and contractual matters.

The City of Tega Cay's 2025-2035 Comprehensive Plan serves as a roadmap to guide the city's development and redevelopment. It articulates a vision for Tega Cay as a safe, family-friendly, lakeside community offering exceptional educational, entertainment, and recreational opportunities. The plan focuses on ten key elements: Population, Land Use, Transportation, Economic Development, Housing, Natural Resources, Cultural Resources, Community Facilities, Resiliency, and Priority Investment. It aims to balance managing growth with preserving the city's character, maintaining natural spaces, improving public services and infrastructure, and fostering local economic opportunities, all while prioritizing safe neighborhoods, excellent schools, and the natural beauty of Lake Wylie.

The key discussions during this special council meeting focused on administrative and ceremonial items. These included the swearing-in of newly elected officials: Carmen Miller as Mayor, Thomas S. Hyslip as Councilmember, and Heather Jones as Councilmember, all for terms commencing on this date. Following the oaths of office, the Council proceeded to elect a Mayor Pro Tempore, with Councilmember Thomas S. Hyslip being nominated and approved. Furthermore, the schedule for the 2026 Regular Council meetings was presented and unanimously approved. Councilmembers shared concluding remarks expressing gratitude and commitment to public service and collaboration with city staff.

The meeting began with the swearing in and oath of office for Council Member James D. Folultz. A joint public hearing was held with the planning commission regarding the adoption of the 2025 to 2035 Comprehensive Plan for the city. A public comment was made regarding property inclusion in the plan. Another public hearing addressed the rezoning of 1557 Hubert Graham Way as part of a 100% annexation petition. The City Manager's report included notification of a clean audit for FY2425, the hiring of a new Municipal Clerk starting March 9th, and the anticipated go-live date for the Evolve project module at the end of March. Updates were provided on coordination for proactive code enforcement, The Grove Development infrastructure, and discussions with Windhaven commercial properties. The Fire Department reported that Ladder One is in service, milestone EMT certifications were completed, and two new members graduate on the 27th. Statistics for January 2026 were shared, including 467 calls for service and 730 traffic stops, along with an average response time of 3 minutes and 52 seconds. Upcoming police events include a quarterly public safety meeting on March 4th featuring Sheriff Tony Breeden. Parks and Recreation reported that youth baseball registration remains open until March 7th, batting cages are being finalized at Rundy Park, and the city hosted a successful Quad Ball national qualifier. The city also received the Rising Star Award for the Best Dam Food Festival. Public Works reported the near completion of Christmas light removal, completion of two stormwater projects, and that loose leaf collection ends this month. Installation of new pedestrian activated rapid flash beacons is anticipated at the Seven Cove Trail Ridge intersection and at Callaway by mid-April. Finally, the Police Department introduced Officer Jen McCormack as the new Community Relations Officer.