Government News

Summerton Town Council swears in new mayor, approves research on police department funding

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Keith Bowman was officially sworn in as mayor during the Summerton Town Council’s monthly business meeting on October 8. Bowman, who ran unopposed in the September 24 special election, took the oath of office early in the meeting. The council also approved a motion authorizing the town administrator to research grant and funding alternatives for the police department, and a special called meeting was scheduled for October 15 at 6 p.m.

The meeting, held at Town Hall, opened with the call to order, notification of media, an invocation, and the Pledge of Allegiance. After Bowman was sworn in as mayor, the council selected a new Mayor Pro Tempore, and the agenda for the evening’s meeting was reviewed and approved, along with the minutes from both the September 10 regular meeting and the September 23 special call meeting.

Sheron Ragin of Historic Liberty Hill AME Church gave a presentation, followed by departmental reports. Public Works Director Anthony Smith and Water and Sewer System Operator Joseph Oliver reported on various ongoing projects, including maintenance work on water leaks and the installation of new water taps. Police Chief Donell Dixon presented crime statistics, noting five assaults and one traffic incident in September.

Town Administrator Kenneth B. Geathers Jr. provided an update on multiple capital improvement projects, including the Goat Island Sewer System Improvement Project and the townwide broadband study. He noted that construction of the sewer system’s sanitary sewer force-main and pump stations is in progress, with other major infrastructure projects moving forward.

Geathers also reported on zoning and land management issues, including a salvage yard screening violation at 207 Main Street and the approval of a zoning permit for roof repair at 12 North Cantey St. The planning commission met on October 1 to discuss the development of the town’s Comprehensive Plan and Downtown Master Plan, with preliminary drafts expected in early 2025.

In new business, the council unanimously authorized Geathers to research potential grants and funding alternatives to support the police department, addressing long-term needs for resources and equipment. No formal action was taken after the council moved into executive session to discuss personnel and contractual matters, and the meeting concluded without any further votes.

The next special called council meeting is scheduled for October 15 at 6 p.m., where additional town business is expected to be discussed.