How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

These routine actions form the foundational requirements for the council to conduct its official business. The council approved the agenda as published and authorized the minutes from the previous March 25 meeting. They also suspended specific rules of order regarding the number of proclamations allowed per meeting to ensure all scheduled honors could be addressed. These procedural votes ensure that all actions taken during the session remain in compliance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act and local governance standards. By formally adopting these items, the council clears the way for legislative discussions and public presentations, establishing the official record for the meeting. These measures are foundational to maintaining transparency and order in all subsequent county council proceedings.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

The Fair Housing Month proclamation, requested by the Santee Lynches Regional Council of Governments, was originally scheduled for this meeting. However, Councilman Sammie Tucker Jr. was absent, and leadership opted to postpone the formal recognition until the April 22 meeting. Deferring the item ensures that all council members have the opportunity to participate in the presentation, which highlights the importance of fair housing practices within the region. This is a routine administrative delay that allows for full council representation when the proclamation is officially read and adopted later this month.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This proposed amendment to the Unified Code of Zoning and Land Development Regulations aims to improve fire safety standards across the county. Specifically, it targets minor subdivisions where existing public water infrastructure is already capable of sustaining necessary fire flow. By requiring the installation of hydrants during the development process, the county intends to ensure that emergency responders have adequate water sources to fight fires in these residential areas. This was the first of two required readings for the ordinance to become law. Following this unanimous approval, the ordinance will move forward to a second reading and a final vote at a future council meeting to determine if the regulation will be permanently codified.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance facilitates the transfer of water utility infrastructure located within the public rights-of-way of Black River Road and Mt. Olivet Road. The council is moving to convey these facilities to the Kershaw and Lee County Regional Water Authority, which manages water distribution in these areas. This administrative step helps streamline utility management by placing the infrastructure under the direct control of the regional authority best equipped to operate and maintain these water lines. The ordinance passed its first reading without opposition, indicating general agreement on the transfer of responsibilities. It will now move to a second reading before the conveyance is finalized, ensuring the regional authority can take over the necessary assets to continue providing reliable water service to local residents.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This significant infrastructure investment focuses on upgrading the physical accessibility and utility of KC West Park. The bid was awarded to Kershaw Builders, the lowest responsible bidder, for a total of $1,447,697.50. The project includes the construction of a new driveway and a modern parking lot to accommodate increased visitor traffic. These improvements are intended to resolve existing safety issues and ensure that the park’s facilities are more accessible to all residents. County Administrator Danny Templar recommended the contract for approval, which received unanimous support from the council. Construction is expected to proceed in the coming months, marking a major update for one of the county's primary recreation hubs. The project reflects a broader ongoing effort by the council to modernize public lands and support community health through improved outdoor infrastructure.

Who said what

» Danny Templar, County Administrator: Presented the bid to Council and recommended that the project be awarded to Kershaw Builders.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This project involves the comprehensive rehabilitation of baseball facilities at Boyd Young and Copeland Parks, totaling $1,162,118.18. The council awarded the contract to Contractor Services of Kershaw following a competitive bidding process designated as Bid #24-135-07. These repairs are essential for maintaining safety and usability at fields that serve local youth leagues and community sports organizations. By investing over $1.1 million, the county aims to restore the quality of the playing surfaces and infrastructure, ensuring the fields remain a viable resource for local families for years to come. This project was also recommended by the County Administrator and received full support from the council. The work will proceed immediately, as officials look to have the facilities in peak condition for the upcoming sports seasons, addressing long-standing maintenance needs at these two highly utilized park locations.

Who said what

» Danny Templar, County Administrator: Presented the bid for the rehabilitation project and recommended the selection of Contractor Services of Kershaw.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Following an executive session, the council voted unanimously to authorize the County Administrator to engage in an emergency procurement process. This action allows the county to retain Advanced Correctional Healthcare (ACHC) to provide essential inmate medical services at the Kershaw County Detention Center. This emergency contract will remain in effect until the county completes a full procurement process to secure a long-term provider for the next fiscal year. The decision was made to ensure continuity of medical care for inmates, fulfilling the county’s legal obligations. This type of emergency authorization is allowed under Section 2-37 of the Kershaw County Code of Ordinances when immediate services are required to prevent a lapse in necessary operations. The measure passed after a brief closed-door legal briefing, ensuring that the detention center remains compliant with healthcare standards while the standard bidding process moves forward.

Who said what

» Ben Connell, Chairman: Made the motion to authorize the Administrator to retain Advanced Correctional Healthcare until a long-term contract is procured.