Tanya B. Byrd

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. The agenda and consent agenda were approved. Key discussion focused on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for housing projects. The Commissioners discussed shifting the focus for four properties from rehabilitation to reconstruction because the state Department of Commerce deemed the rehabilitation costs too close to reconstruction costs to be cost-effective. The board was asked to authorize the amendment process for the grant to allow for reconstruction. The potential for using manufactured housing as a lower-cost reconstruction option to potentially serve all five initially selected households was also reviewed. Ultimately, the board voted to amend the CDBG grant to allow for reconstruction instead of rehabilitation. The discussion also briefly touched upon the temporary relocation of residents during the reconstruction process and the availability of storage pods for their belongings. Later in the session, the E Anson Economic Development Corporation representative was scheduled to present.

The meeting commenced with an invocation and the pledge of allegiance. The agenda was approved, noting a recusal request for item 7B. The consent agenda was approved. Appearances included Representative Mark Brody, who discussed historical funding allocations for the Anson Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), noting concerns regarding a lack of progress on development projects like a shell building and sewer expansion, despite significant funding received. He requested the County return to prior funding levels for AEDC contingent upon establishing clear accountability measures and reporting requirements. Another appearance was made by James Shaver representing Congressman Mark Harris, providing an update on legislative activities, constituent case resolutions, and readiness to assist with IRS matters during tax season.

The meeting commenced with standard procedures including invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by the approval of the agenda and consent items. Discussion during consent items clarified that an approved item related to DEEQ project pump station repairs was a necessary 'doover.' During public appearances, representatives from South Piedmont Community College presented their annual budget for approval, noting a decrease in funding from Anson County for fiscal year 2026. Public address segments focused heavily on citizen concerns, including a significant water leak potentially caused by the installation of a stop sign, noise pollution from truck engine braking (Jake brakes) near Capable Dairy, excessive littering, and persistent issues with neighboring property nuisances (marijuana smoke, pests). The board noted that Jake brake sign requests would be directed to the Department of Transportation (DOT). A concerned resident also raised serious issues regarding the high turnover of the Veteran Service Officer position and questioned the level of county support and funding provided to veterans, including the allocation of opioid settlement funds. Another citizen advocated for increased law enforcement resources, specifically requesting the implementation of K9 patrol units, animal control, and increased budget support for the Sheriff's department. Finally, the Board approved appointments and reappointments to the Axe Advisory Board.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the December meeting. The primary focus was a quasi-judicial hearing regarding a Class B Special Use Permit (SUP26-01) application from M. Regina Kase for a home occupation, specifically for a nonprofit organization named Mina's Garden, dedicated to reducing health disparities in rural communities through education and support for chronic disease management. Staff noted a clerical error in the property description in the initial report but confirmed the pin was correct. The board reviewed compliance with zoning standards, noting the use aligns with residential character, the two resident family employees meet requirements, and no obtrusive byproducts would be generated. The proposed use fits within the Rural Living land use designation. The planning department recommended approval, and after deliberation confirming all findings of fact were met, the Board unanimously approved the Special Use Permit.

The agenda for the regular meeting included standard items such as agenda approval and consent items covering previous minutes and surplus items. Appearances included updates from Representative Mark Brody, the Office of Congressman Mark Harris, the Thompson, Price, Scott, Adams, & Co. audit team, and an introduction from the State Auditor's Office. The Board also planned to hear from the Anson Tourism Development Authority regarding their new director and receive a presentation on the six-month trial period for the Flex Work Schedule, followed by a potential motion for approval. Other key discussion points scheduled were public addresses, an appointment to the Board of Health, and reports from the County Manager covering the Anson Landfill Contract, January Tonnage Report, an update on the Wrecker Ordinance Fee Schedule Increase (which was recently posted on 2/17/2026), the Old Water Building, and the Facilities Report. The agenda concluded with the Chairman's Report and a potential Closed Session to consult with the attorney regarding potential claims or actions.