At its regularly scheduled meeting on May 13, the Summerton Town Council approved several community requests and took action to address ongoing water billing issues, while also hearing from residents and organizational leaders during a packed agenda at Town Hall.
Mayor Keith Bowman called the meeting to order, followed by an invocation and pledge of allegiance. Minutes from five prior meetings, including special called sessions in April and May, were unanimously approved.
During the public presentations, a representative from Tree City USA discussed grant opportunities that could be available later this year to support planting and maintaining trees in Summerton.
Willie Briggs, representing the Briggs vs. Elliott Festival and NAACP, requested support from the town for the upcoming celebration. His request included street closures and portable toilets for a jazz festival on Friday and a parade on Saturday. He also announced that a formal gala would take place the following weekend at the Matrix Center. Council approved the request.
Another request, presented by a member of the Huggins family, asked the town to allow a portion of Second Street to be blocked off for a combined family reunion and wedding. That request was also approved by council.
Under departmental reports, Mary Adger, Town Administrator, addressed ongoing challenges in the water department. Water and sewer bills were delayed due to staffing shortages and reported issues with meter readings. In response, council voted to waive late fees and water shut-offs for the month of May. Bowman urged residents to remain patient.
“We are short-staffed, and we are working to resolve this,” Bowman said, noting that Adger had an upcoming interview with a candidate from a temporary staffing agency to assist with the department.
Public comments during the meeting echoed the concerns over water bills. Residents also voiced frustration over a removed safety cone that had marked a hydrant in need of replacement and requested a “Slow Down” sign for Church Street.
There was no finance report presented during the meeting.
In old business, council members reviewed upcoming plans for a budget workshop scheduled for May 29 at 6 p.m. They also discussed updates related to Clean Up Day and made appointments and reappointments to various town boards.
Following the regular agenda, council entered executive session. While Mayor Bowman confirmed that several items were voted on after the closed session, details were not released as of press time. The Manning Times has reached out to Town Administrator Mary Adger for further comment.
One of the confirmed actions taken was the appointment of Alex White as the new police chief—a decision that became notable when White resigned the following day.
The next regular meeting of Town Council is expected to be held on June 10, 2025.
