The headline
Kershaw County Council authorized a $2 million General Obligation bond to fund critical wastewater infrastructure repairs in the Lugoff and Elgin areas. The project aims to address ongoing odor complaints and long-term sewage line maintenance, with the County Administrator confirming the bond will not require a property tax increase.
$2M General Obligation Bond for Wastewater Infrastructure (2nd Reading):
Council authorized a $2 million bond to fund critical wastewater infrastructure repairs in Lugoff and Elgin.
Taxes & budgetWater & sewer
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance authorizes the issuance of up to $2 million in General Obligation (GO) bonds to finance urgent rehabilitations of the county's wastewater infrastructure. The project focuses on sewage lines in the Lugoff and Elgin areas, which have been plagued by persistent odor complaints and maintenance issues. County Administrator Danny Templar noted that this bond is the first phase of a larger $12 million, six-year infrastructure rehabilitation plan. Crucially, officials emphasized that the bond will be funded through existing debt capacity, meaning there will be no property tax increase for residents. Council passed the second reading unanimously. The bond will allow the county to begin necessary engineering and construction work to address the long-term sewage system stability.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» County Administrator Danny Templar: This will go to give us a really good start in what we expect to be about a $12 million rehab project.
» Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr.: I just want to make sure we get that, there is no increase in property taxes.
Votes at a glance ▸ tap to showtap to hide
Special Source Revenue Credit Agreement for "Project Gemstone" (1st Reading):
Council approved the first reading of an economic development incentive agreement for "Project Gemstone."
Taxes & budget
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance authorizes a Special Source Revenue Credit (SSRC) agreement between Kershaw County and a business entity identified as "Project Gemstone." As a first reading, this measure marks the beginning of the legislative process to provide economic incentives designed to attract or retain private investment in the county. While specific details regarding the project's industry, investment amount, or job creation numbers remain confidential under state law, the matter was discussed in an executive session during the meeting. These agreements are common tools used by the county to remain competitive for industrial development. The council passed this item unanimously. The measure will require subsequent readings and public consideration before it can be finalized and executed by the county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Chairman Ben Connell: This is a first reading in title only of the SSRC agreement.
» Councilman Brant Tomlinson: Can we get a legal briefing on what this entails for Project Gemstone?
About this project: Project Gemstone »
Joint Industrial Park Boundary Amendment for "Project Gemstone" (1st Reading):
Council approved the first reading of an ordinance to include "Project Gemstone" property in the industrial park.
Jobs & economyParks & rec
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance amends the existing intergovernmental agreement between Kershaw and Fairfield Counties to expand the boundaries of their Joint Industrial and Business Park. The expansion specifically incorporates real property associated with "Project Gemstone" into the park's tax-incentive footprint. By adding this property to the joint park, the county is able to provide specific tax benefits and credits as part of a larger economic development package. This was a first reading in title only, and the council voted unanimously to move the item forward. This legal mechanism is frequently used by South Carolina counties to manage tax revenues from industrial developments across county lines. The ordinance will return for future readings as the project progresses through the county's approval pipeline.
PASSED (Unanimous)
About this project: Project Gemstone »
Lease Agreement for 632 W. DeKalb St. with S.C. Department of Natural Resources (1st Reading):
Council approved a lease agreement for the Department of Natural Resources at 632 W. DeKalb Street.
County property
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance authorizes the county to enter into a lease agreement for office space located at 632 W. DeKalb Street in Camden with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The county owns this facility, which serves as a hub for various state and local agency operations. This first reading effectively memorializes the ongoing lease arrangement between the county and the state agency. Council members described the measure as routine "housekeeping" to formalize existing usage of the property. The lease provides the SCDNR with stable office space while ensuring the county property is utilized for public service purposes. The council approved the first reading unanimously, and the agreement will proceed through the standard ordinance process.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» Councilman Danny Catoe: This is just routine house clean-up type stuff.
Lease Agreement for 632 W. DeKalb St. with S.C. Forestry Commission (1st Reading):
Council approved a lease agreement for the Forestry Commission at 632 W. DeKalb Street.
County property
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Similar to the previous item, this ordinance formalizes a lease for office space at the county-owned building at 632 W. DeKalb Street, this time for the South Carolina Forestry Commission. The lease establishes the specific obligations and responsibilities of both the county and the Forestry Commission regarding the maintenance and use of the facility. By approving this first reading, the council continues to facilitate the presence of state agencies in a centralized Camden location, which benefits local residents needing these services. Council noted that this is part of a series of lease renewals for the property. The measure passed unanimously and will be scheduled for subsequent readings as required by the county's ordinance procedures.
PASSED (Unanimous)
$2M General Obligation Bond for Wastewater Infrastructure (2nd Reading):
Council authorized a $2 million bond to fund critical wastewater infrastructure repairs in Lugoff and Elgin.
Taxes & budgetWater & sewer
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance authorizes the issuance of up to $2 million in General Obligation (GO) bonds to finance urgent rehabilitations of the county's wastewater infrastructure. The project focuses on sewage lines in the Lugoff and Elgin areas, which have been plagued by persistent odor complaints and maintenance issues. County Administrator Danny Templar noted that this bond is the first phase of a larger $12 million, six-year infrastructure rehabilitation plan. Crucially, officials emphasized that the bond will be funded through existing debt capacity, meaning there will be no property tax increase for residents. Council passed the second reading unanimously. The bond will allow the county to begin necessary engineering and construction work to address the long-term sewage system stability.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Who said what
» County Administrator Danny Templar: This will go to give us a really good start in what we expect to be about a $12 million rehab project.
» Councilman Sammie Tucker, Jr.: I just want to make sure we get that, there is no increase in property taxes.
Building Codes Board of Adjustments and Appeals Ordinance Amendment (2nd Reading):
Council amended board membership requirements to simplify the appointment process for the Building Codes Board.
DevelopmentAppointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance amends the County Code to align the Building Codes Board of Adjustments and Appeals with the standards set forth in the International Building Code (IBC). Previously, the county's local requirements for board members were overly exacting, making it difficult to find qualified citizens to serve and keep the board functional. By relaxing these membership criteria to match the IBC, the county expects to fill vacant seats more easily. The amendment also clarifies appeal procedures to resolve administrative bottlenecks. Council members and legal staff described this as a bureaucratic cleanup to ensure the board remains operational. The second reading passed unanimously, moving the ordinance closer to final adoption.
PASSED (Unanimous). This cleanup ordinance relaxes board membership requirements to simplify appointments
Who said what
» Staff (Legal Counsel): This will allow the county to maintain this board easier than it has in the past.
Lease Agreement for 632 W. DeKalb St. with Clemson University Cooperative Extension (3rd Reading):
Council finalized the lease for the Clemson University Cooperative Extension branch office.
County property
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This ordinance grants final approval (3rd reading) for a lease agreement between the county and the Clemson University Cooperative Extension service for space at 632 W. DeKalb Street. The facility serves as the local branch office for the Extension, which provides agricultural, 4-H, and community development resources to Kershaw County residents. Having passed all three readings, this agreement is now finalized, cementing the Extension's presence in the government-owned building. Council members reiterated that this was a routine administrative action to renew and stabilize the tenancy of the agency. The final vote was unanimous, ensuring the Clemson Extension can continue its mission of delivering educational and outreach services to local farmers and families without interruption.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Hazard Mitigation Plan Resolution:
Council adopted the regional Hazard Mitigation Plan to ensure continued eligibility for FEMA disaster grants.
Grants
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
This resolution officially adopts the 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan, a regional framework developed by the Santee-Lynches Council of Governments (COG) in coordination with FEMA and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. The plan assesses the county's vulnerability to natural disasters - such as floods and storms - and outlines strategies for mitigation, including backup power systems, emergency shelter designations, and ditch maintenance. Adoption is a mandatory prerequisite for the county to remain eligible for federal FEMA grant funding during and after declared emergencies. Council members expressed their support for the collaborative effort, noting its importance for regional preparedness. The plan was developed with input from the county’s Emergency Management Director, Will Glover, and will guide disaster response efforts for the next five years.
PASSED (Unanimous). This adoption ensures the county remains eligible for FEMA grant funding
Who said what
» Jeff Parkey (COG): This plan basically keeps all of the jurisdictions in our four-county region eligible for FEMA grant funding.
Appointment of Virginia Long to Clean Community Commission (District 2):
Virginia Long was reappointed to the Clean Community Commission.
Appointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Council unanimously approved the reappointment of Virginia Long to represent District 2 on the Kershaw County Clean Community Commission. This board plays a vital role in local beautification, litter prevention, and environmental sustainability initiatives throughout the county. The appointment ensures continuity for the commission as they manage programs aimed at keeping Kershaw County clean and inviting. Council expressed appreciation for her willingness to serve another term in this volunteer capacity.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Ed Garrison to Library Board (At-Large):
Ed Garrison was reappointed to the Library Board as an At-Large member.
Parks & recAppointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Council unanimously reappointed Ed Garrison to the Library Board in an At-Large capacity. The Library Board is responsible for oversight of library facilities, budget stewardship, and policy direction for the county library system. Mr. Garrison’s extensive history of community service was noted by the council, who expressed confidence in his ability to continue supporting the library's mission to provide educational and technological access to residents across the county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Christine Crissell to Library Board (District 2):
Christine Crissell was reappointed to the Library Board representing District 2.
Parks & recAppointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Christine Crissell was unanimously reappointed to the Library Board to represent District 2. The board serves as a governing body for the library system, ensuring that services remain responsive to the needs of the community and that the library remains a valuable asset for local literacy and programming. Council confirmed her reappointment to continue her service, highlighting the importance of the board in managing county library resources.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Appointment of Bob Gin Giorgi to Library Board (District 6):
Bob Gin Giorgi was reappointed to the Library Board for District 6.
Parks & recAppointments
Unanimous · 7-0
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detailsless
How they voted - unanimous
✓ Ben Connell✓ Russell Brazell✓ Sammie Tucker Jr.✓ Derek Shoemake✓ Jimmy Jones✓ Brant Tomlinson✓ Danny CatoeWhat this was about
Council unanimously reappointed Bob Gin Giorgi to represent District 6 on the Library Board. Mr. Gin Giorgi is a dedicated local volunteer, known for his work with other county organizations such as the trails committee and state park support groups. Council members praised his commitment to public service and his ongoing role in ensuring the library system remains well-maintained and adequately funded for the residents of District 6 and the broader county.
PASSED (Unanimous)
Discussed, no vote ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Council discussed a resident's complaint regarding a property tax posting error; the Chairman directed staff to ensure the County Attorney follows up.
- A citizen spoke out against the potential development of AI data centers in the county, citing concerns over power consumption, noise, and environmental impact.
- Council acknowledged that property reassessment notices are scheduled to be mailed on Friday, June 12, 2026, with a 90-day window for appeals.
Public comment ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Mr. Isaac McCaskill expressed frustration regarding a property seizure posting he alleges was made in error.
- Mr. William Holland shared concerns about the potential negative impacts of AI data centers, urging Council to pass an ordinance to prevent them from moving into the county.
Coming up ▸ tap to showtap to hide
- Council noted that additional committee appointments for Districts 3 and 6 will be pushed to the next meeting.
- Ribbon-cutting ceremonies are expected later this month for Casey West, Boyd, and Copeland parks.
Independent summary, generated from the county's public video, not an official county communication.