The Clarendon County Council convened for its regular meeting on Dec. 9, marking the final session for longtime members Chairman Dwight Stewart and Councilman A.C. English. The evening was filled with routine business, heartfelt farewells, and reflections on decades of service to the county.
The meeting began with the invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the agenda and minutes. Service awards were presented to recognize the dedication of Clarendon County employees for their years of service. Dr. Robert Ridgeway was honored for five years of service as Assistant Chief Medical Control Officer for Fire/Rescue and received a certificate. Tracy Benenhaley, also with Fire/Rescue, was acknowledged for five years as Lieutenant/EMT and awarded a certificate along with a five-year pin. Although unable to attend, Susan Welch was recognized for 10 years as Sergeant with the Sheriff’s Department and awarded a certificate and ten-year pin. Judge Robert McCord was honored for 15 years of service as Magistrate Judge and received a certificate and a county emblem paperweight. Judge Phillip Stephens, with 20 years as Magistrate Judge, also received a certificate and a county emblem paperweight. William McCoy, a School Resource Officer with the Sheriff’s Department, was recognized for 25 years of service and awarded a certificate and a clock. Finally, Kayla Sapp was honored for five years as FF3/EMT with Fire/Rescue, receiving a certificate and five-year pin.
“Your contributions make a difference every day,” said Council Chair Dwight Stewart as he thanked the honorees for their dedication. The recognitions concluded with applause from attendees, celebrating the hard work and commitment of these individuals.
County Administrator Lynden Anthony provided a comprehensive update on ongoing county projects. He highlighted the swift progress of the Turbeville Fire Station, which is nearing the drywall stage, and announced that plans for Fire Station #10 on J.W. Rickenbacker Road will go out for bid this week. “These projects demonstrate our commitment to improving public safety and infrastructure in Clarendon County,” Anthony said. He also detailed advancements in the North Shore Summerton Wastewater Development Project and design work for expanded recreational facilities at J.C. Britton Park, including pickleball courts, a bike pump track, and an e-sports complex.
Anthony congratulated fifth-grader Harmony Walker from Walker Gamble Elementary for winning the Recreation Department’s annual Christmas card competition. “This competition showcases the creativity of our young residents, and Harmony’s card will undoubtedly bring joy to homes across the county,” he said.
In financial matters, Anthony reported that the county’s general fund expenditures remain slightly below budget, and water and sewer revenues have exceeded expectations. While acknowledging delays in Weldon Auditorium renovations, he reassured council members that planning adjustments are moving forward. “We are in a solid financial position to support our ongoing projects and future growth,” Anthony added.
The council approved several key items, including the 2024 and 2025 holiday closing schedules and the 2025 meeting calendar. Additionally, council unanimously approved granting December 27, 2024, as an extra paid holiday for county employees. “This additional day is a way for us to show our appreciation for their hard work and dedication,” said Anthony.
The meeting carried a special significance as Chairman Stewart and Councilman English bid farewell after a combined 40 years of service. Both were honored with plaques and certificates for their dedication to the community.
Before the formal agenda began, State House Representative Fawn Pedalino presented Chairman Stewart and Councilman English with awards recognizing their service. “You have put so much time and energy into this county, and I just wanted to show my respect to y’all and give you something back for everything you’ve done for us in Clarendon County,” Pedalino said. Each was given a certificate of recognition from the South Carolina House of Representatives and a state flag that previously flew over the Statehouse. Pedalino also expressed gratitude for the way Stewart and English welcomed her into county matters after her election. “Both of you always included me in everything, and I can’t thank you enough,” she said.
Stewart, who has served as chairman since 2001, reflected on his tenure. “Our rural county has faced its share of challenges, but we’ve worked tirelessly to position Clarendon County for growth and success,” he said. Stewart recounted his first campaign and the support he received from local firefighters, calling them “the backbone of our county’s safety.” He expressed gratitude to his wife, Sherry, for her support over the past 44 years of public service. “She’s seen me walk out the door countless nights for meetings, events, and emergencies, and her patience has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Stewart said.
Stewart shared memorable moments, including the county’s response to the historic 2015 floods. “In times of crisis, this community has always come together to support one another. It’s that resilience that makes Clarendon County so special,” he said. Reflecting on the future, Stewart added, “While this is the end of my time here, I believe the county is in good hands. We’ve laid a strong foundation for growth, and I’m excited to see what the next chapter holds.”
English, who has represented District 1 for 16 years, shared his gratitude. “Clarendon County has come a long way, and I’m confident that our future is bright with the strong leadership in place,” he said. English emphasized the importance of collaboration, saying, “The progress we’ve made didn’t happen overnight. It was the result of teamwork, dedication, and the support of the citizens of this county.” He thanked his constituents for their trust and encouragement over the years. “You have been my inspiration to serve, and I will always be grateful for this opportunity,” he said.
Both men were also recognized by the Clarendon County Democratic Party. George Frierson presented certificates of appreciation, quoting Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Frierson, himself a Vietnam veteran, commended both leaders for their service to the community, calling them “pillars of integrity and dedication.”
Kurtis Rodine will succeed English as the representative for District 1, while Jay Johnson will take over as council chairman following his victory in the November election. Although Rodine was not in attendance, Johnson’s presence signaled a focus on continuity and preparation for his upcoming leadership role.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters. As the gavel fell for the final time in 2024, Council members and attendees expressed their gratitude to Stewart and English for their decades of dedication, leaving a lasting mark on Clarendon County’s history.
The next scheduled county council meeting is January 13, 2025.