The City of Manning Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2024, discussing critical infrastructure projects, celebrating safety achievements, and addressing concerns over unkept and abandoned properties.
Mayor Julia Nelson opened the meeting with a welcome and introductory remarks, followed by an invocation by Councilmember Ervin L. Davis and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Sherry Welle.
City Administrator Scott Tanner provided an extensive update on Manning’s upcoming infrastructure projects, reflecting the city’s commitment to modernization and community improvement. Tanner announced that the council unanimously approved the allocation of the city’s remaining $960,575 in American Rescue Plan (ARP) funding toward the 107-year-old Sewer Replacement Project. The initiative, which targets aging sewer lines across downtown Manning, will begin bidding by the end of the year, with construction anticipated to start in early 2025.
In addition, Tanner outlined progress on the city’s multi-phase drainage improvement project. Bids for the first phase, focusing on key intersections at Gibbons and Mill, Keitt and Walker, Brooks and Memorial, and Boyce and Collins Streets, will be accepted starting Nov. 26. Construction is slated to begin in the first quarter of 2025. The city is also advancing plans for the Church Street Towne Centre and Venue, as well as a traffic relief project near Laurence Manning Academy. This effort will include a turn lane addition and road widening to address congestion on Old Georgetown Road, with construction expected to commence during the summer break in 2025.
“These projects represent significant steps toward enhancing Manning’s infrastructure and quality of life,” Tanner said.
Mayor Julia Nelson addressed concerns about unkept and abandoned properties, including businesses that close and become community eyesores. Nelson directed staff to contact the city’s attorneys and the municipal association to explore options for stronger enforcement or “more bite” to address these issues.
The council welcomed two new officers to the Manning Police Department during the meeting. Officer Jennifer T. Conners and Officer David Woods were officially sworn in by Mayor Nelson, reinforcing the city’s commitment to public safety and community protection.
The council also celebrated Manning’s receipt of the South Carolina Municipal Insurance Trust Risk Management Award for 2024, recognizing the city’s exemplary safety practices. Manning’s efforts earned an engraved plaque and a $2,500 award, which the city will commemorate with a Christmas/Safety Luncheon for employees on Dec. 6.
“I really appreciate Team Manning’s efforts in making safety a priority! It is paying off!” Tanner said.
Tanner also reported that the city’s auction of obsolete equipment had raised over $14,000, with all but two items sold. The remaining items will be re-listed for auction in the coming weeks.
The next City of Manning Council meeting will take place on Dec. 10, 2024, where further updates on these projects and other city developments will be discussed.
