The Town of Summerton Council convened for its regular monthly meeting on August 13th at the Summerton Town Hall. Led by Mayor Keith Bowman, the meeting covered a wide range of topics, including infrastructure projects, financial updates, and community concerns.
The session commenced with the swearing-in of two new police officers, Shamari H. Lawson and Jonathan W. Gadson, who were officially welcomed into the Summerton Police Department. The council then received the 2022-2023 audit report from R. Marc Wood of Sheheen, Hancock & Godwin, LLP. The audit highlighted the town’s financial standing, noting areas of stability and emphasizing the importance of continued fiscal responsibility.
Chris Waddell of American Engineering provided a significant update on the Goat Island Sewer System Improvement Project. This critical infrastructure initiative involves the construction of 35,000 linear feet of sanitary sewer force-main and three new pump stations. Waddell emphasized that the project is crucial for supporting Summerton’s growth and ensuring long-term sustainability. Additionally, he reported that preparations for the new water tank on Rowe Drive are underway, with the foundation crew mobilizing to the site and steel fabrication in progress.
Town Administrator Kenneth Geathers presented a comprehensive report on the town’s operations. The cash balance as of July 2024 stood at $685,665.86, with $460,498.69 in the general government fund and $37,523.60 in the water and sewer fund. Geathers highlighted that the town had successfully secured grant money, which bolstered its financial standing and would support ongoing projects.
Utility billing was another area of focus, with Geathers reporting that 58 accounts were delinquent as of July 30, 2024, leading to penalties for those accounts. The town is preparing to implement digital meter readings in the next billing cycle, a move expected to improve efficiency and accuracy in utility billing.
In zoning enforcement, Geathers noted several actions taken by the town, including the issuance of certified notices for properties with excessive junk and debris, as well as permits granted for various developments. The ongoing hydrant flushing throughout the town, mandated by the EPA, was also discussed, with Geathers confirming that the project would continue until completion.
The council deliberated on a right-of-way easement request from Farmers Telephone Cooperative, which seeks to install a phone cable along a town-owned property. The decision was tabled to allow for further consideration and negotiations.
Another significant agenda item was a resolution authorizing the acceptance of real property at 12 South Church Street, currently owned by the Clarendon County School District. Although the property is being offered at no cost, the council opted to table the resolution pending further discussions in an executive session, where the legal and financial implications will be reviewed.
Public comments highlighted community concerns, particularly regarding the appearance of Main Street and the quality of the town’s water supply. Ann Shoots, representing the Lake Marion Artisan Gallery, expressed concerns about deteriorating storefronts on Main Street, which she argued detracts from the town’s appeal. Kurt Busch, president of the North Shore Village Homeowners Association, presented photos of discolored water and urged the council to prioritize water quality improvements, noting that many residents are still relying on bottled water due to the poor condition of the tap water.
The meeting concluded with the council moving into an executive session to discuss legal matters related to the acquisition of real estate. The next council meeting is scheduled for September 10, 2024.
