The Clarendon County Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on September 9th, with several key issues on the agenda, including the final reading of Ordinance 2024-05, updates on county infrastructure projects, and service awards for long-serving employees.
The meeting began with introductory remarks, followed by an invocation, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of both the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.
Service awards
During the meeting, several county employees were recognized for their service anniversaries. Frank B. Jones, a Captain and EMT with the Fire and Rescue Department, was honored for 15 years of service. Both Darrell McCants and Keisha Simmons, Captains with the Detention Center, were celebrated for 20 years of dedication. Leon Richburg, the Veterans Affairs Director, was recognized for 30 years of service, receiving a clock in addition to his certificate.
Ordinance 2024-05 finalized
One of the primary items on the agenda was the third and final reading of Ordinance 2024-05, amending the county’s Unified Development Code to regulate solar energy facilities. The ordinance introduces comprehensive guidelines for the siting, construction, and operation of solar farms within the county. Key provisions include establishing setbacks from residential areas, mandatory environmental safeguards, and the requirement for detailed decommissioning plans to restore sites after the facilities have ceased operation.
The ordinance aims to promote economic development while protecting public health, safety, and the natural environment. It also repeals a previously enacted moratorium on new solar farm applications. The ordinance was passed after several months of revisions, special public meetings, and consideration of public comments. It represents the conclusion of a lengthy process aimed at ensuring that solar energy development moves forward responsibly, addressing community concerns and aligning with county regulations.
Memorandum of Understanding with City of Manning
Council also approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Clarendon County and the City of Manning for the construction and operation of a joint Law Enforcement Training Facility. The MOU outlines responsibilities for the county to oversee the design, permitting, and construction, while the city will assume ownership and maintenance once the project is completed.
Administrator’s report
County Administrator Lynden Anthony provided an update on ongoing infrastructure projects. Key developments include:
The Emergency Operations Center and Communications Center are in the design phase, with preliminary site plans under review by a third-party estimator.
Construction at the Turbeville Fire Station is progressing, with the pad poured and framing near completion.
Design and engineering work have started on the well and storage tank for the South Carolina Infrastructure Investment Program (SCIIP) grant project, and bids are being accepted for test well drilling.
Anthony also reported that fall sports programs have seen a 21% increase in soccer registrations, while the cheerleading program has returned to the Weldon Auditorium for its fall season.
Finance report and C-Program update
Anthony provided the finance report, noting that the county’s C-Program, which funds local road projects, had a cash balance of $7.3 million as of August 31, 2024. He added that no withdrawals were made for local paving projects in August, leaving $2.2 million in uncommitted funds.
Executive session
Council entered an executive session to discuss a personnel issue related to the Auditor’s Office and received a legal update on the Solar Farm Ordinance. After returning to open session, no votes were taken on the personnel issue, and the Solar Farm Ordinance had already been finalized with the passage of Ordinance 2024-05.
The next Clarendon County Council meeting is scheduled for October 14, 2024, at 6 p.m.
