Meeting recap · June 14, 2022
Council passes the 2nd reading of the 2022-2023 budget and authorizes a significant community-focused ARPA funding transfer
The budget includes a 4 to 10 percent cost-of-living increase for county employees and a separate initiative to transition the former Mount Pisgah High School into a community center.
11 votes11 passed1 split
The vote behind the headline
2nd Reading of 2022-2023 Budget (includes $300k ARPA transfer for Mt. Pisgah Community Center and funding for 3 full-time firefighters at Pine Grove):
Council approved the budget's second reading, which includes funding for fire services and a community center.
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The second reading of the 2022-2023 county budget passed unanimously. The budget is balanced with no millage increase and accounts for a $300,000 ARPA funds transfer to establish a community center at the former Mount Pisgah High School. It also includes an amendment to fund three full-time firefighters at the Pine Grove station using fee-in-lieu (FILOT) revenue. Personnel costs are a major component, with 4 to 10 percent cost-of-living adjustments for county employees. The budget reflects revenue growth driven by an increase in the value of the mill, though it also notes the elimination of sewer millage and the consolidation of solid waste service hours. Council members engaged in extensive debate regarding funding mechanisms, emphasizing the need for financial stability while supporting rural service improvements in areas like Pine Grove and Mount Pisgah.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Vic Carpenter Public comment: explained that the budget is balanced and utilizes reserve funds and FILOT to support significant capital projects ▶︎» Danny Gardner Public comment: argued that the Mount Pisgah project will provide essential services and opportunities for a historically underserved area ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: argued that using FILOT funds to add full-time firefighters provides life-saving services without raising taxes ▶︎» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: expressed concern about the long-term sustainability of using FILOT to fund recurring personnel costs ▶︎Votes at a glance ▸ showhide
Amendments to the Agenda:
Council unanimously approved two procedural changes to the meeting agenda.
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The Council voted to amend the meeting agenda to ensure a more orderly flow of business. Specifically, the Chairman moved to rearrange the presentation regarding the Lugoff Fire Protection District to later in the meeting. Additionally, Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. successfully motioned to add a proclamation recognizing outgoing County Administrator Vic Carpenter to the new business portion of the agenda. These changes were handled as procedural housecleaning items at the start of the meeting. The amendments were approved unanimously by all present members, allowing the council to proceed with the revised schedule for the evening.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Approval of Meeting Minutes:
Council approved the minutes from the previous session, with Councilman Tucker abstaining.
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The Council reviewed and approved the minutes from their previous meeting to finalize the official record. Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. formally abstained from the vote because he was absent during the session described in the minutes. The approval process was routine, following standard parliamentary procedure for confirming the accuracy of the past meeting's notes. With the exception of the abstention, the vote was unanimous among the present members. This action ensures the county's public record remains accurate and complete.
PASSED (Unanimous, S. Tucker abstained)
Resolution for Development Impact Fee Study:
Council approved a resolution requiring a study to determine if development impact fees are appropriate for the county.
Development
Yes 5 · No 2
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detailsless
Yes 5 · No 2
How they voted
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✗ Jimmy Jones✗ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This resolution initiates a formal, state-mandated study to evaluate the feasibility of implementing development impact fees in unincorporated Kershaw County. The measure was brought forward following discussions by an ad hoc committee led by Chairman Ben Connell and council members Russell Brazell and Danny Gardner. The study will analyze the impact of rapid population growth on public infrastructure, including public safety, recreation, and EMS services. Council members emphasized that this vote does not create a fee but is the first statutory step required by South Carolina law to explore the tool. Some members, including Jimmy Jones and Danny Catoe, expressed concerns regarding the cost of the study - estimated at tens of thousands of dollars - and the potential burden on new homeowners. The study is expected to be completed within four months, at which point the Council will review the findings before deciding on any future implementation.
PASSED For 5 · Against 2
Who said what
» Ben Connell Chairman: noted that state law mandates a formal study before any impact fee can be legally considered or implemented ▶︎» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: argued the study is a responsible way to address the infrastructure demands created by ongoing regional growth ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: questioned whether an impact fee would actually manage growth and worried about the financial burden on consumers ▶︎» Danny Gardner Public comment: viewed the study as a necessary step to evaluate all available tools for managing the county's rapid development ▶︎
Recreational Lease for Battlefield Site with Historic Camden Foundation:
Council authorized a no-cost lease to partner with the Historic Camden Foundation to develop a battlefield park.
Parks & recCounty property
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council unanimously approved a recreational lease with the Historic Camden Foundation to develop the 476-acre Camden Battlefield and Longleaf Pine Preserve on Flat Rock Road. This partnership aims to boost economic development and tourism by creating a site for recreation and education, including trails, signage, and preservation activities. The county will provide maintenance for the property, but the lease agreement itself is at no cost to the taxpayers. Supporters highlighted the site's historical significance, noting that the Battle of Camden was a pivotal event in the American Revolution. The project is supported by the South Carolina Battleground Preservation Trust, which is expected to provide private funding for infrastructure improvements. Council members praised the initiative as a way to preserve local history while fostering community and tourism benefits.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» David Ruer Public comment: emphasized that the battlefield project will generate economic development, recreational opportunities, and increased tourism for the county ▶︎» Danny Gardner Public comment: confirmed that the lease is at no cost to the county other than incidental maintenance requirements ▶︎
3rd Reading of Ordinance to Amend Zoning and Land Development (ZLDR) Article 6:
Council passed an amendment to establish the County Council as the secondary body for zoning appeals.
Development
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
This ordinance amends Article 6 of the Kershaw County Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations (ZLDR) to alter the appeals process. Previously, appeals of zoning decisions bypassed the Council and went directly to circuit court. Under this new measure, the County Council becomes the secondary arbiter for zoning appeals, providing a more accessible and potentially less expensive path for citizens who disagree with decisions made by staff or the Board of Zoning Appeals. Supporters, including Council members Connell and Tucker, praised the change for providing consistency and giving the Council a clearer role in oversight. Vic Carpenter noted this is part of a broader ongoing effort to update the county's zoning laws and comprehensive plan to be more user-friendly.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Ben Connell Chairman: highlighted that having appeals come before the Council provides a useful oversight mechanism that was previously missing ▶︎» Vic Carpenter Public comment: explained that the ordinance simplifies the appeals process for citizens by allowing them to appeal to Council before court ▶︎
3rd Reading of Bailey Bill Ordinance for Historic Property Tax Assessments:
Council approved a tax assessment program for historic rehabilitations, utilizing the City of Camden as the reviewer.
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The Bailey Bill allows property owners to freeze their property tax assessments for 15 years after investing in the rehabilitation of historic structures. To qualify, properties must be at least 50 years old and meet specific historic significance criteria. The minimum investment for rehabilitation is 20 percent of the property's market value. Kershaw County Council successfully negotiated an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the City of Camden, which will act as the reviewing authority for these projects. This arrangement avoids the need to work with state archives, which council members previously indicated would be less responsive. The City of Camden will provide these services at no current cost to the county, as they already have the necessary staff and Landmark Commission in place. Council members hailed the compromise as a model of efficient cooperation.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Ben Connell Chairman: noted that partnering with the City of Camden provides a responsive and knowledgeable reviewing authority for historic properties ▶︎» Jimmy Jones Council Member: expressed satisfaction with the deal because it avoids using a state-level process that he considered inefficient ▶︎
3rd Reading of Fee Agreement with RJR Land Group (as amended):
Council approved a fee-in-lieu of tax agreement for a local company to support expansion and jobs.
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council approved a fee-in-lieu of tax (FILOT) agreement for the RJR Land Group, which supports the expansion of the multi-generational local business, Roy's Wood Products. The ordinance was amended to include sponsor affiliates, specifically Two Tigers Properties LLC, which owns the existing facility, alongside the new facility located on Highway 601. The agreement supports the company's commitment to invest a minimum of $5 million and maintain or grow their workforce, which currently stands at over 80 employees. Council members praised the family's history and their contributions to the county, noting that the founder was a World War II veteran. Officials confirmed that this expansion is a significant economic boost that has been in development for several years and operates independently of any individual council member's family ties.
PASSED (Unanimous)
2nd Reading of 2022-2023 Budget (includes $300k ARPA transfer for Mt. Pisgah Community Center and funding for 3 full-time firefighters at Pine Grove):
Council approved the budget's second reading, which includes funding for fire services and a community center.
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 6-0
▸
detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The second reading of the 2022-2023 county budget passed unanimously. The budget is balanced with no millage increase and accounts for a $300,000 ARPA funds transfer to establish a community center at the former Mount Pisgah High School. It also includes an amendment to fund three full-time firefighters at the Pine Grove station using fee-in-lieu (FILOT) revenue. Personnel costs are a major component, with 4 to 10 percent cost-of-living adjustments for county employees. The budget reflects revenue growth driven by an increase in the value of the mill, though it also notes the elimination of sewer millage and the consolidation of solid waste service hours. Council members engaged in extensive debate regarding funding mechanisms, emphasizing the need for financial stability while supporting rural service improvements in areas like Pine Grove and Mount Pisgah.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Vic Carpenter Public comment: explained that the budget is balanced and utilizes reserve funds and FILOT to support significant capital projects ▶︎» Danny Gardner Public comment: argued that the Mount Pisgah project will provide essential services and opportunities for a historically underserved area ▶︎» Russell Brazell Vice-Chairman: argued that using FILOT funds to add full-time firefighters provides life-saving services without raising taxes ▶︎» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: expressed concern about the long-term sustainability of using FILOT to fund recurring personnel costs ▶︎
Lugoff Fire Protection District Budget:
Council passed the Lugoff Fire Protection District budget, with promises for future amendments to address firefighter pay.
Taxes & budgetEMS & fire
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The budget for the Lugoff Fire Protection District was passed unanimously, though Chief Spitzer indicated that it will be updated soon. The current budget faces significant pressure from rising fuel costs - which have increased by over 150 percent since last year - and staffing needs. Chief Spitzer presented a passionate case for his firefighters, noting that current compensation is insufficient to retain staff. He explained that he could not delay the budget approval, but he intends to return on July 12th with a proposed amendment following two required public hearings. The current budget does not include a millage increase. Council members expressed their support for the fire department's mission and acknowledged the difficult financial environment the district is currently operating under.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Financial Audit Services Bid:
Council approved a contract for audit services with Shaheen, Hancock, and Godwin.
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
The Council unanimously approved the bid for financial audit services from Shaheen, Hancock, and Godwin, a local firm based in Camden. The firm submitted a bid dramatically lower than the competing proposal from a Columbia-based firm, Malden and Jenkins. Additionally, the Council noted that Shaheen, Hancock, and Godwin currently holds the county's audit contract, meaning they are already familiar with the county's financial systems, personnel, and overall condition. This contract covers the current fiscal year and the subsequent three years.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Proclamation Recognizing Vick Carpenter:
Council honored departing Administrator Vic Carpenter for his 11 years of service to the county.
Unanimous · 6-0
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detailsless
Unanimous · 6-0
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Russell Brazell✓ Tom Gardner✓ David Snodgrass✓ Ben Connell✓ Jimmy JonesWhat this was about
Council unanimously approved a proclamation recognizing Vic Carpenter for his 11 years of service as County Administrator. The proclamation, initiated by county employees, highlights Carpenter's role in managing large budgets, his commitment to integrity, and his efforts in fostering a culture of trust and respect among staff. During his tenure, Kershaw County received several prestigious awards, including the J. Mitchell Graham Award for innovation. Council members personally thanked Carpenter for his leadership, professionalism, and the ease with which he handled complex county operations, noting his significant positive impact on the community.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Sammie Tucker Jr. Council Member: shared that the proclamation was a heartfelt gesture from the employees who admire Carpenter's leadership ▶︎» Ben Connell Chairman: expressed personal gratitude for the mentorship and spiritual support Carpenter provided during his time as Administrator ▶︎Discussed, no vote ▸ showhide
- Executive Recruiter Selection: Council discussed selecting an executive recruiter to fill the County Administrator vacancy, with members expressing differing views on whether to hire a firm or appoint the current Deputy Administrator.
- Electronic Meeting Capabilities: Council discussed the logistics and sound requirements for allowing council members to attend and participate in meetings via Zoom when traveling or absent.
Public comment ▸ showhide
David Ruer spoke in support of the battlefield lease, highlighting the economic development, recreational, and tourism potential of the 900-acre site.
Coming up ▸ showhide
- Lugoff Fire District Public Hearings: July 12, 2022.
- Mt. Pisgah Community Center Stakeholder Meeting: July 14, 2022.
- 3rd Reading of the 2022-2023 County Budget: June 28, 2022.
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.