Meeting recap · September 10, 2019
Council approved a $383,185 contract for Phase 1 of the Watervy River Park project, which includes a concrete walking trail and a floating kayak launch
This decision marks a significant step forward in the county's riverfront development plan, despite some internal debate regarding construction in a designated floodplain.
8 votes8 passed4 split
The vote behind the headline
Watervy River Park Phase 1 Bid Award (Contract):
Council approved a $383,185 contract for the initial construction phase of the new riverfront park.
Parks & rec
Yes 6 · No 1
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detailsless
Yes 6 · No 1
How they voted
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom Gardner✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council awarded a $383,185 contract to Contractor Services of Kershaw for Phase 1 of the Watervy River Park project. The project includes the construction of a 2,112-linear-foot concrete walking trail and a floating kayak and canoe launch system designed to provide safe public river access. The project also involves significant site work to create an entrance and improve egress safety on U.S. Highway 1. While Councilman Jimmy Jones voted against the measure, citing concerns about pouring concrete in a designated floodplain, other members argued that the design is robust and similar to other successful river parks across the state. The project is expected to proceed with minimal impact on upcoming community events, and the county plans to work with the Department of Natural Resources on future park connectivity.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1
Votes at a glance ▸ showhide
Proclamation for Kershaw County Ponytails Softball Team (Proclamation):
Council recognized the local youth softball team for their successful Dixie League World Series performance.
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 7-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy Jones✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom GardnerWhat this was about
The Kershaw County Ponytails softball team was formally recognized by the Council for their impressive athletic achievements. The team finished their season ranked first in South Carolina and secured a fourth-place finish at the Dixie League World Series in Texas. This marks only the second time in the county's history that a local team has reached the World Series. Council members celebrated the team's discipline, leadership, and the role models they have become for the community's youth. The proclamation also acknowledged the vital contributions of volunteer head coach Lee Stokes and assistant coaches Stephen Sheehorn and Waylon Watkins. This honor serves as a testament to the community's support for local recreational programs and the dedication of the young athletes.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Conveyance of Property to Bethune Rural Water (2nd Reading):
Council approved transferring title of a small property used as a pump station to the water utility.
Water & sewer
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 7-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy Jones✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom GardnerWhat this was about
Council approved the second reading of an ordinance to convey a small parcel of county-owned land to the Bethune Rural Water utility. This land was originally acquired by the county years ago to support a grant-funded project, and it currently serves as the site for a critical pump station. By transferring the title to the utility, Bethune Rural Water can move forward with securing additional grants necessary for maintenance and infrastructure upgrades at the property. The vote was unanimous, reflecting Council's support for local utility infrastructure stability. No public controversy accompanied this routine transfer of real property, which Council previously passed on first reading.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Fee-in-Lieu of Tax Agreement for Project Sweeper (1st Reading):
Council approved a tax incentive ordinance for an economic development project known as Project Sweeper.
Taxes & budget
Yes 6 · No 1
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detailsless
Yes 6 · No 1
How they voted
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom Gardner✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council voted to approve the first reading of an ordinance authorizing a Fee-in-Lieu of Tax (FILOT) agreement for an economic development entity referred to as Project Sweeper. This agreement allows the county to negotiate assessment ratios and property tax rates to incentivize industrial investment within the region. While the ordinance passed 6-1, Councilman Jimmy Jones abstained from voting, expressing concerns that insufficient details regarding the nature of the project and its total impact were provided to the public and to Council members. Supporters of the measure emphasized that this is a standard procedural step, noting that the title-only format is necessary to comply with competitive business timelines, and full details will be disclosed in later readings.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1. J. Jones abstained from the vote, citing insufficient information provided to the public and council
Who said what
» Jimmy Jones Council Member: abstained from the vote because he felt there was insufficient information provided for the project ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: explained the necessity of passing the measure in title only to remain competitive for industry ▶︎About this project: Project Sweeper »
Fee-in-Lieu of Tax Agreement for Project Wildcat (1st Reading):
Council approved a tax incentive ordinance for an economic development project referred to as Project Wildcat.
Taxes & budget
Yes 6 · No 1
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detailsless
Yes 6 · No 1
How they voted
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom Gardner✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Similar to the Project Sweeper ordinance, Council approved the first reading of a FILOT agreement for Project Wildcat. This measure facilitates tax incentives meant to attract or maintain private sector investment, with the county setting specific assessment ratios as allowed by state law. Councilman Jimmy Jones abstained from this vote, maintaining his stance that the lack of public disclosure regarding the specifics of these economic developments is a concern. Other Council members defended the process, clarifying that confidentiality is vital when dealing with corporations that have not yet finalized their operational plans. The measure passed 6-1, with a promise that complete details would be brought forward before the final reading.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1. J. Jones abstained, citing similar concerns regarding transparency
Who said what
» Jimmy Jones Council Member: reiterated that his abstention was based on a lack of transparency and information ▶︎About this project: Project Wildcat »
Resolution Identifying Project Sweeper (Resolution):
Council passed a resolution required by state law to formalize Project Sweeper's economic development status.
Yes 6 · No 1
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detailsless
Yes 6 · No 1
How they voted
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom Gardner✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This resolution serves as a necessary legal formality to satisfy state code requirements regarding the previously approved tax agreement for Project Sweeper. Administrator Carpenter explained that state law mandates such resolutions for economic development projects to maintain legal compliance. Councilman Jimmy Jones abstained from this vote as well, consistent with his earlier objections regarding the limited information provided about the industrial entity. Supporters argued that the resolution is purely procedural and essential for facilitating economic growth within the county. The measure was passed with a 6-1 vote, allowing the project to proceed to the next stage of development.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1
Who said what
» Jimmy Jones Council Member: stated he would abstain again because he felt pressured by the majority to vote yes ▶︎About this project: Project Sweeper »
Resolution Identifying Project Wildcat (Resolution):
Council unanimously passed a resolution identifying the Project Wildcat entity to comply with state economic regulations.
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 7-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy Jones✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom GardnerWhat this was about
Council unanimously approved the resolution identifying Project Wildcat, fulfilling state legal requirements to move the tax agreement forward. This resolution provides the necessary framework to proceed with the economic development incentives previously discussed. Unlike the previous votes on Project Sweeper, there was no abstention for this particular item. The measure ensures the county remains in alignment with South Carolina state code as it pursues industrial investment and future job creation. This resolution signifies the final step in the current legislative session for this project, allowing staff to coordinate with the company on implementation.
PASSED (Unanimous)
About this project: Project Wildcat »
Watervy River Park Phase 1 Bid Award (Contract):
Council approved a $383,185 contract for the initial construction phase of the new riverfront park.
Parks & rec
Yes 6 · No 1
▸
detailsless
Yes 6 · No 1
How they voted
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom Gardner✗ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council awarded a $383,185 contract to Contractor Services of Kershaw for Phase 1 of the Watervy River Park project. The project includes the construction of a 2,112-linear-foot concrete walking trail and a floating kayak and canoe launch system designed to provide safe public river access. The project also involves significant site work to create an entrance and improve egress safety on U.S. Highway 1. While Councilman Jimmy Jones voted against the measure, citing concerns about pouring concrete in a designated floodplain, other members argued that the design is robust and similar to other successful river parks across the state. The project is expected to proceed with minimal impact on upcoming community events, and the county plans to work with the Department of Natural Resources on future park connectivity.
PASSED For 6 · Against 1
HVAC Equipment and Controls Contract for Library and Sheriff's Office (Contract):
Council approved a contract for new HVAC systems at the library and sheriff's office via national purchasing agreement.
Public safetyParks & rec
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 7-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Julian Burns✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy Jones✓ David Snodgrass✓ Tom GardnerWhat this was about
Council approved a contract to replace HVAC equipment at the main library and the sheriff's office. The library system will cost $154,979, while the sheriff's office unit is priced at $137,785. These units are being acquired through a national purchasing agreement with Trane, which administrators noted ensures high-quality equipment and a competitive pricing structure. The systems include a one-year labor and parts warranty, and staff will transition to a maintenance agreement after that term expires to ensure long-term operational efficiency. This investment was previously allocated in the current fiscal year budget. The vote was unanimous, reflecting broad Council support for modernizing critical county building infrastructure to maintain comfortable and safe environments for staff and citizens.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ showhide
- Clean Community Commission Litter Officer Grant: Council discussed a proposed $20,000 grant from Palmetto Pride to fund a litter control officer. Administrator Carpenter proposed repurposing an existing county employee for this role to avoid additional personnel costs.
- All-American City Logo on Water Towers: Council discussed a proposal to place the All-American City logo on local water towers. Concerns were raised regarding the cost, the durability of decals, and the need for private funding rather than public tax dollars.
- Minute Approval Amendment: Council voted to amend the August 13 minutes to reflect that Chairman Burns departed the meeting early, delegating the gavel to Vice Chairman Tucker.
Public comment ▸ showhide
- Jim Steele cautioned the council to seek an Economic Development Director focused on job growth rather than government overreach.
- Wesley Crowley criticized recent county spending and urged the council to improve hiring oversight.
- David Fuller requested that the new park be named Watervy River Veterans Park and advocated for moving the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment monument to the park entrance to improve accessibility for veterans.
Coming up ▸ showhide
- Vision 2030 Survey: The 2019 survey will be available online starting October 1, with results presented to Council at the winter planning retreat.
- Codification Project: An update on the county's codification project is expected at the next meeting to improve public access to ordinances.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.
How this recap was made: Prepared from the meeting's live-stream transcript. The county's official minutes (the verified vote record) will be cross-checked automatically once the county publishes them, often a couple of months later. This is an automated summary written by software (a neural-network summarizer working from the documents above). Rely on the official county record for anything important.