Barnwell County public meetings in 2025

County Council

The County Council is holding a special called meeting. The primary purpose is to enter an executive session to receive legal advice regarding contractual matters with SCA.

• Executive session regarding contractual matters with SCA

The council approved its agenda and then reviewed the 2024‑2025 audit presentation. Council members voted to accept the audit as presented. After the acceptance, the council adjourned the meeting.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Accepted the 2024‑2025 audit report as presented (motion carried)
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold a special meeting on December 17, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. The council will approve the meeting agenda and receive a presentation of the 2024‑2025 audit by Scott and Chairman Houston. No other items are listed.

• Approval of agenda
• Presentation of the 2024‑2025 audit by Scott and Chairman Houston

County Council

The County Council will meet to approve the 2026 meeting schedule and appoint a member to the Lower Savannah Workforce Development Board. The agenda also includes a presentation from the President of Denmark Technical College.

• Presentation by Dr. Eric Brown, President of Denmark Technical College
• Approval of 2026 Council Meeting Dates
• Appointment to Lower Savannah Workforce Development Board

The council approved the meeting agenda and the corrected minutes from previous sessions. Council members approved the schedule of council meetings for 2026. The council appointed Brandon Martin to the Lower Savannah Workforce Development Board.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved corrected minutes from prior meetings (motion carried)
• Approved 2026 council meeting dates (motion carried)
• Appointed Brandon Martin to Lower Savannah Workforce Development Board (motion carried)

County Council

The County Council will hold a special called meeting to conduct interviews for the Clerk to Council position. These interviews will take place during an executive session.

• Interviews for Clerk to Council position

The council voted to approve the agenda for the special meeting. No action was taken on the clerk‑to‑council position interviews. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• No action taken on clerk‑to‑council position interviews
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council special meeting will follow standard procedures, including a call to order, invocation, pledge of allegiance, and quorum declaration. An executive session is scheduled, during which interviews for the Clerk to Council position will be held, and any subsequent actions may be taken. The meeting concludes with adjournment.

• Interviews related to Clerk to Council position
• Executive session (potential follow‑up actions)

The council voted to approve the agenda for the special meeting. An executive session was held to discuss interviews for the Clerk to Council position, but no action was taken. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approved (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The council will hold a third reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413. The ordinance sets the terms of Barnwell County’s Fiscal Year 2025‑2026 budget for operations and debt service, authorizes a rollback millage, and establishes budget parameters for certain county agencies. It also repeals Resolution No. 2025‑09‑706. The meeting otherwise includes routine procedural items.

• Third reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413 – FY 2025‑26 budget, rollback millage, agency budget parameters, repeal of Resolution No. 2025‑09‑706
• Authorization of temporary clerk to council

The council approved the meeting agenda. It then approved the third reading of Ordinance No. 2025‑06‑413, which authorizes a rollback millage and sets new budget parameters for county agencies. The council also authorized hiring Elaine Ferguson as a temporary Clerk to Council on a part‑time basis. The meeting was adjourned at 6:13 p.m.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved third reading of Ordinance No. 2025‑06‑413 to implement rollback millage and budget changes (motion carried)
• Authorized hiring of Elaine Ferguson as temporary Clerk to Council, part‑time (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:13 p.m. (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold a public hearing and a third reading of an ordinance to amend the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget. The proposed changes include implementing rollback millage and setting budget parameters for specific county agencies.

• Public hearing on Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 2025-06-413
• Proposed implementation of rollback millage
• Proposed budget parameters for certain county agencies
• Repeal of Resolution No. 2025-09-706

The council met at 6:00 p.m. on December 1, 2025, declared a quorum, and approved the agenda. A third‑reading of Ordinance No. 2025‑06‑413 was noted with no action taken. The meeting was adjourned at 6:08 p.m. with no substantive decisions made.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will conduct a second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413, which would adopt the county’s fiscal year 2025‑2026 operations and debt service budget, authorize a rollback millage, set budget parameters for certain county agencies, and repeal Resolution No. 2025-09-706. The meeting also includes an executive session to interview candidates for the County Administrator position. No other items are listed for decision.

• Second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413 to adopt FY 2025‑2026 budget and rollback millage
• Repeal of Resolution No. 2025-09-706
• Authorization of budget parameters for certain county agencies
• Executive session to interview County Administrator candidates

The council approved the agenda and the second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413, which amends the FY 2025‑2026 budget. A motion to enter executive session was carried, though no action occurred there. Roll‑call votes approved Administrator Candidate B (5 Ayes, 2 Nays) and rejected Candidate A (2 Ayes, 5 Nays). The meeting was adjourned at 12:53 p.m.

• Agenda approval motion carried
• Second reading of Ordinance No. 2025-06-413 approved
• Motion to enter executive session approved (no action taken)
• Administrator Candidate B approved by roll‑call vote (5‑2)
• Administrator Candidate A rejected by roll‑call vote (2‑5)
• Meeting adjourned at 12:53 p.m.

County Council

The County Council is meeting in a special called executive session. The body will discuss personnel matters regarding Generations Unlimited and the hiring of a County Administrator.

• Personnel matters related to Generations Unlimited
• Employment matter regarding the hiring of a County Administrator

The council approved the meeting agenda. They voted to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters related to Generations Unlimited and the hiring of a county administrator. No actions were taken during the executive session. The council then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel and hiring matters (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned the meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold an executive session to discuss employment and interview candidates for the County Administrator position. Any actions regarding the appointment may be taken after the session. The meeting also includes standard procedural items such as call to order and agenda approval.

• Executive session: interview of County Administrator candidates

The council approved the meeting agenda. A motion to enter executive session to discuss employment and interview county administrator candidates was approved. No action was taken during the executive session. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved motion to enter executive session to discuss employment (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Approved adjournment (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold a public hearing on an ordinance to convey Blackville Marketing Authority property and to relinquish the county’s interest in it. The council will conduct a third reading of that conveyance ordinance. The council will consider a second reading of an ordinance that extends the solid waste service agreement with Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority through 2050, updates tonnage commitments, raises annual tipping fees, and authorizes up to $30 million in revenue bonds for a new phase. Additional items include a first reading of a budget amendment ordinance, a resolution to expand the Quad‑County Industrial Park to include the Delavan Spray, LLC property, and a resolution to adopt a revised personnel policy manual.

• Public hearing on ordinance to convey Blackville Marketing Authority property and disclaimer of interest
• Second reading of solid waste service agreement amendment authorizing up to $30 million in revenue bonds
• Third reading of conveyance ordinance for Blackville Marketing Authority property
• First reading of ordinance amending FY 2025‑2026 budget to implement rollback millage and budget parameters
• Resolution to amend master agreement to enlarge Quad‑County Industrial Park to include Delavan Spray, LLC property

The council accepted the second reading of an ordinance amending the Solid Waste Service Agreement with the Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority, allowing the authority to issue revenue bonds not to exceed $30 million for a new phase construction. The council also approved the third reading of the Blackville Marketing Authority conveyance ordinance and adopted resolutions to enlarge the Quad‑County Industrial Park and to adopt a revised personnel policy manual. All motions carried.

• Approved second reading of solid waste service agreement authorizing up to $30 M bonds (motion carried)
• Approved third reading of Blackville Marketing Authority conveyance ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to enlarge Quad‑County Industrial Park (motion carried)
• Approved resolution to adopt revised personnel policy manual (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of Stephanie Shaver to Animal Shelter Board (motion carried)
• Approved appointment of Angela Cotton to Housing Committee (motion carried)
• Approved addition of press release regarding 2025 tax levy to agenda (motion carried)
• Approved amended agenda (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold an executive session to receive legal advice regarding the 2025 tax levy. The remainder of the agenda consists of routine procedural items, including call to order, quorum declaration, agenda approval, and adjournment.

• Executive session – receipt of legal advice regarding the 2025 tax levy

The council approved the meeting agenda. They voted to enter executive session to discuss legal advice on the 2025 tax levy. No action was taken during the executive session, and the meeting was subsequently adjourned. No substantive decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice on 2025 tax levy (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will convene a special called executive session to receive legal advice regarding the 2025 reassessment. The council may take action following this discussion.

• Executive session to discuss 2025 reassessment
• Receipt of legal advice
• Special called meeting at Carolina Room

The council approved its agenda, entered an executive session to discuss legal advice on the 2025 reassessment, took no action during that session, and then adjourned. All motions were carried.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice on 2025 reassessment (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The council will hold a first reading of an ordinance to amend and restate the solid waste service agreement with The Three Rivers Solid Waste Authority, extending the contract through 2050 and allowing the authority to issue revenue bonds up to $30 million for a new phase. The council will also consider a resolution to accept a grant from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture for Project Automate and to execute related agreements. A memorandum of understanding regarding reassessment of the SRS property will be discussed, and the meeting will address the date for the November meeting on Veteran’s Day.

• First reading of ordinance amending solid waste service agreement, extending term to 2050, increasing tipping fees, and authorizing up to $30 million in revenue bonds for a new phase
• Resolution to accept a grant from the South Carolina Department of Agriculture for Project Automate and to execute related agreements
• Memorandum of Understanding reassessment of SRS property
• Discussion of November meeting date on Veteran’s Day

The council approved a resolution to accept a South Carolina Department of Agriculture grant for Project Automate and authorized related agreements. A memorandum of understanding for reassessment of SRS property was also approved. Several board and committee appointments were confirmed, and the council decided to keep the November meeting on Veteran’s Day.

• Approved Resolution accepting SC Dept. of Agriculture grant for Project Automate (motion carried)
• Approved Memorandum of Understanding for reassessment of SRS property (motion carried)
• Reappointed Chantane Tobin to the Axis 1 Board (appointment confirmed)
• Nominated Stephanie Shaver to the Animal Shelter Board (nomination confirmed)
• Appointed Marlene McCCerib-Baglin to the Animal Shelter (appointment confirmed)
• Nominated Angela Cotton to the Housing Committee (nomination confirmed)
• Decided to keep November council meeting on Veteran’s Day (no change)
• First reading of solid waste service agreement ordinance (no action taken)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council meeting on October 14, 2025 will follow standard procedural steps, including call to order, quorum declaration, and agenda approval. The primary agenda item is an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the Policy Manual and the County Administrator. Any actions resulting from those discussions may be taken after the executive session. The meeting will then adjourn.

• Discussion of personnel matters related to the Policy Manual (executive session)
• Discussion of personnel matters related to the County Administrator (executive session)

The council approved the meeting agenda. They entered executive session to discuss personnel matters, but no action was taken. The council then approved the Personnel Committee's recommendations on the Personnel Policy Manual. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (motion carried)
• Approved Personnel Committee recommendations on Personnel Policy Manual (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Personnel Committee will meet at 1:00 p.m. to approve the agenda and minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting. The committee will then hold an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the policy manual. No other decisions or actions are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session: discussion of personnel matters related to the policy manual

The committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the 9‑4‑25 meeting. It then approved a motion to go into executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the policy manual, where no action was taken. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from 9‑4‑25 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved motion to enter executive session for personnel policy discussion (motion carried)
• No action taken in executive session
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will convene an executive session to receive legal advice concerning personnel matters. The meeting also includes standard procedural steps such as call to order, invocation, quorum declaration, agenda approval, and adjournment.

• Receipt of legal advice regarding personnel matters (executive session)

The council amended the agenda to add Item #5, the Declaration of State of Emergency, and approved the amended agenda. A motion to approve the Declaration of State of Emergency was carried. The council entered an executive session to discuss legal advice on personnel matters, took no action, then reconvened and adjourned.

• Amended agenda to add Item #5 (Declaration of State of Emergency) – motion carried
• Approved the amended agenda – motion carried
• Approved the Declaration of State of Emergency – motion carried
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice on personnel matters – motion carried
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned the meeting – motion carried

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will conduct a standard procedural meeting, including a call to order, invocation, quorum declaration, and agenda approval. The meeting will also feature a Priority Setting Workshop to discuss the council’s upcoming priorities. No specific policy decisions or contracts are on the agenda.

• Call to Order by Chairman Houston
• Invocation by Chairman Houston
• Declaration of Quorum by Chairman Houston
• Approval of Agenda by Chairman Houston
• Priority Setting Workshop in Council Chambers

The council approved the meeting agenda after a motion and second. A workshop led by Dr. William Molnar identified four countywide priority areas: water system upgrades, law‑enforcement resources, health‑care services, and telemedicine initiatives. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Identified priority areas: water system upgrades, law‑enforcement resources, health‑care services, telemedicine pilot
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

Barnwell County Council will consider setting the 2025-2026 millage rates and authorizing an amendment to the Quad-County Industrial Park master agreement. The meeting also includes a public comment period and the second reading of an ordinance regarding property conveyance.

• Second reading of ordinance for Blackville Marketing Authority property conveyance
• Authorizing resolution for 2025-2026 millage rates
• Amendment to Quad-County Industrial Park master agreement
• Resolution recognizing South Carolina State Guard members
• Resolution recognizing Desiree Still

The Barnwell County Council approved the Resolution-2025-2026 Millage Rates and a second‑reading ordinance conveying Blackville Marketing Authority property. It also approved an amendment to the Quad‑County Industrial Park master agreement to add additional property. The council confirmed appointments to the Transportation Committee and the Planning Commission, and adopted two recognition resolutions.

• Reappointed Willie Walker to the Transportation Committee (motion carried)
• Approved nomination of Josh Fields to the Planning Commission (motion carried)
• Approved second reading of ordinance conveying Blackville Marketing Authority property (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution-2025-2026 Millage Rates (motion carried)
• Approved amendment to the Quad‑County Industrial Park master agreement to include additional property (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution recognizing the South Carolina State Guard and National Preparedness Month (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution recognizing Desiree Still (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will meet to receive legal advice regarding compensation for magistrate judges during an executive session. Action may be taken on this matter following the session.

• Legal advice regarding compensation for magistrate judges

The council approved its meeting agenda. It entered an executive session to receive legal advice on magistrate judge compensation, but no action was taken there. The council then approved sending a letter, signed by the chairman, to the magistrate judges. The meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss magistrate judge compensation (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Approved sending a letter to magistrate judges signed by the chairman (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Zoning Board of Appeals will meet on September 9, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. after standard opening items. The board will discuss a request for a zoning variance or special exception for the property identified as Tax Map #029-00-00-020. No other agenda items are listed. The meeting will adjourn after the discussion.

• Consider request for zoning variance/special exception – Tax Map #029-00-00-020

The board approved its agenda after a motion was carried. It granted Bobby Jordan a special exception to place a mobile home on his property at Tax Map #029-00-00-020. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion that carried.

• Agenda approval motion carried
• Special exception for mobile home placement on Tax Map #029-00-00-020 approved
• Meeting adjournment motion carried

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will meet to discuss the conveyance of property from the Blackville Marketing Authority. The body will also consider a resolution regarding the final distribution of 2016 Capital Project Sales Tax proceeds.

• First reading of an ordinance for the conveyance of property from the Blackville Marketing Authority
• Resolution for the final distribution of 2016 Capital Project Sales Tax proceeds
• Resolution of Recognition for Vaishali Allibada

The council approved the agenda and minutes from the July 8 meeting. It made several appointments, including moving Joshua Perry to the Equalization Board of Appeals and adding Don Harper to the Airport Commission. The council authorized AED maintenance services and a letter to the sheriff supporting increased security at county facilities. It also adopted a resolution to distribute 2016 Capital Project Sales Tax proceeds on a pay-as-you-go basis and recognized community member Vaishali Allibada.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of the July 8 meeting (motion carried)
• Made appointments: Joshua Perry to Equalization Board of Appeals, Don Harper to Airport Commission, Sandy Wizoreck to Recycling Committee; nominated Josh Fields to Planning Commission (motion carried)
• Authorized Administrator to contract Carolina Life Safety for AED maintenance (motion carried)
• Authorized Administrator to send letter to Sheriff supporting increased security and request state funding (motion carried)
• Approved resolution for final distribution of 2016 Capital Project Sales Tax proceeds (motion carried)
• Approved resolution recognizing Vaishali Allibada (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The committee will receive updates on emergency management, fire services, and EMS services. An executive session is scheduled to discuss EMS contractual matters and security measures for the courthouse and administrative building.

• Emergency Management update from Director Roger Riley
• Fire Services update from Coordinator Wesley Gatlin
• EMS Services update from Ameripro
• Executive session on EMS contractual matters
• Executive session on courthouse and administrative building security measures

The Healthcare/Safety Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the April 21 meeting. It voted to go into executive session to discuss EMS contract matters and courthouse security. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved April 21 minutes (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss EMS contract matters and courthouse security (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Finance Committee will meet to discuss the quarterly budget review process. The body will also discuss CPST collections and pay-go.

• Discussion of Quarterly Budget Review Process
• Discussion of CPST Collections and Pay-Go

The committee approved its meeting agenda and the minutes from the March 2025 meetings. No other actions were taken; the remaining items were only discussed. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes for 3‑4‑25, 3‑10‑25, and 3‑25‑25 (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Personnel Committee will meet to receive a human resources update. The committee will enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters related to the Administrator's Office, with potential action to follow.

• Human Resources update from Director Katrina Douse
• Executive session regarding Administrator's Office personnel

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will meet to discuss amendments to the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 budget. The body is also considering resolutions regarding workforce development and the housing of federal detainees.

• First reading of an ordinance amending Ordinance 2025-06-413 regarding the FY 2025-2026 Budget for Operations and Debt Service
• Resolution for the Lower Savannah Workforce Development Area Memorandum of Understanding
• Resolution regarding revenues from the United States Marshals Service to house federal detainees
• Resolution of Recognition for Rhonda McElveen

The council approved three resolutions. Councilman Alexander moved to approve the resolution authorizing execution of the annual Memorandum of Understanding for the Lower Savannah Workforce Development Area under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, and the motion carried. He also moved to approve a memorandum of understanding between the Barnwell County Sheriff and the council regarding revenues received from the United States Marshals Service for housing federal detainees, and the motion carried. Finally, a resolution recognizing Rhonda McElveen was approved, with the motion carried.

• Approved resolution for Lower Savannah Workforce Development Area MOU (motion carried)
• Approved resolution for Sheriff‑Marshals Service revenue MOU (motion carried)
• Approved resolution recognizing Rhonda McElveen (motion carried)
• Councilman Hooper appointed Treasurer for Lower Savannah Council of Governments Board (announcement)

County Council

The County Council will hold a public hearing and a third reading of an ordinance to adopt the budget for operations and debt service for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025. The body will also consider a resolution regarding budget and overtime review policies.

• Public hearing on ordinance to raise revenue and adopt the 2025-2026 budget
• Third reading of the 2025-2026 budget ordinance
• Resolution implementing Quarterly Budget Review and Overtime Review policies

The council approved its meeting agenda. It then approved the ordinance to raise revenue and adopt the fiscal year 2025‑2026 operations and debt service budget. Finally, it approved a resolution establishing quarterly budget review and overtime review policies for FY 2025‑2026. All motions carried.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved FY 2025‑2026 revenue and operations budget ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved resolution implementing quarterly budget review policy (motion carried)
• Approved resolution implementing overtime review policy (motion carried)

County Council

The County Council will meet to discuss the budget for fiscal year 2025-26. The body will also consider a resolution to approve a settlement agreement.

• Discussion of FY 25-26 Budget
• Resolution to approve a settlement agreement

The council approved its meeting agenda and adopted a resolution to approve a settlement agreement. Administrator Meredith Wright presented potential FY 25‑26 budget cuts, but no budget actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved settlement agreement resolution (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The County Council will hold a second reading of the ordinance to raise revenue and adopt the budget for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2025. The body will also consider several resolutions regarding regional partnerships, economic grants, and emergency services.

• Second reading of the Ordinance to Raise Revenue and Adopt a Budget for FY 2025-2026
• Economic Development Grant to the Southern Carolina Alliance
• Mutual Aid Agreement between Barnwell County, AmeriPro Emergency Medical Services, and the U.S. Department of Energy
• Amendment No. 1 to the Grant Agreement with Best Friends Animal Society and Barnwell County Animal Shelter Foundation
• Accommodations Tax Revenue Allocation Recommendations

The council approved the second reading of the ordinance that raises revenue and adopts the operating and debt service budget for Barnwell County for July 1 2025 through June 30 2026. It also approved a series of resolutions on community programs, regional partnerships, and emergency services, while a formal letter to the Hilda Fire Department was tabled. All motions carried.

• Approved Second Reading of FY 2025‑2026 budget and revenue ordinance (motion carried)
• Tabled formal letter to Hilda Fire Department regarding county fire operations (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution designating June 2025 as Elevate Fatherhood Month (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution to continue participation in the Lower Savannah Regional Home Consortium (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution expressing support for the Savannah River Plutonium Processing Facility (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution authorizing a Mutual Aid Agreement with AmeriPro Emergency Medical Services and the U.S. Department of Energy (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution authorizing an Economic Development Grant to Southern Carolina Alliance (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution authorizing Amendment No. 1 to the grant agreement with Best Friends Animal Society (motion carried)

County Council

The County Council will hold a discussion regarding the FY 25-26 Budget. The meeting includes an executive session to receive legal advice concerning the Blackville Marketing Authority and Generations Unlimited.

• Discussion of FY 25-26 Budget
• Legal advice regarding Blackville Marketing Authority
• Legal advice regarding Generations Unlimited

The council amended the agenda to add Item C concerning legal advice for the Hilda Volunteer Fire Department, which was approved by a majority. They entered an executive session to discuss legal matters, but no action was taken. In the public session, the council authorized appropriation of funds to keep Generations Unlimited operating through June, passing with a 6‑1 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Amended agenda to include Item C (legal advice for Hilda Volunteer Fire Dept.) – approved by majority
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice matters – motion carried
• Authorized funds for Generations Unlimited through June – approved 6-1
• Adjourned meeting – motion carried

County Council

The County Council will meet to discuss the FY 25-26 budget. The meeting includes an executive session to receive legal advice regarding county fire service.

• Discussion of FY 25-26 Budget
• Executive session regarding legal advice for County Fire Service

The council voted to add a new agenda item concerning legal advice for Generations Unlimited and approved the amended agenda. A motion to enter executive session to discuss legal advice on the fire service and Generations Unlimited was also approved. No actions were taken during the executive session, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Amended agenda to add Item b (Legal Advice Regarding Generations Unlimited); motion carried by majority
• Approved the amended agenda; motion carried
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice on fire service and Generations Unlimited; motion carried
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned meeting; motion carried

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will meet to receive legal advice concerning the Blackville Marketing Authority during an executive session. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda.

• Executive session regarding Blackville Marketing Authority

The council approved its agenda and entered an executive session to receive legal advice on Cascades and the County Fire Service, but no action was taken in that session. Afterwards, members approved a motion for the County Administrator to schedule a joint meeting with Hilda Town Council to discuss the County Fire Service. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice on Cascades and County Fire Service (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Approved scheduling joint meeting with Hilda Town Council on County Fire Service (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The County Council will hold a public hearing and a third reading of an ordinance regarding an infrastructure credit agreement with a company known as Project Paper. This action involves a special source revenue credit and the project's inclusion in a multi-county industrial park.

• Public hearing on Infrastructure Credit Agreement for Project Paper
• Third reading of ordinance for Project Paper infrastructure credit and industrial park inclusion

The council approved its agenda and passed the third reading of the ordinance authorizing the execution and delivery of an infrastructure credit agreement with the company referred to as “Project Paper.” The ordinance also ratifies the project's inclusion in a multi‑county industrial park. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Approved Infrastructure Credit Agreement Ordinance for Project Paper (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold an executive session to receive legal advice regarding an item referred to as 'Cascades'. Action may be taken following the closed session. The remainder of the agenda is procedural (call to order, quorum, agenda approval, adjournment).

• Executive session for receipt of legal advice regarding Cascades, with possible action afterward

The council approved the meeting agenda, voted to enter executive session to discuss legal advice on Cascades, and then adjourned. No substantive actions were taken during the executive session.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session to discuss legal advice regarding Cascades (motion carried)
• No action taken during executive session
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

County Council

This meeting includes a resolution to authorize a partnership agreement with the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor for grant funding toward the amphitheater project on Lake Edgar Brown. Council will also receive an update from the Lower Savannah Council of Governments and present a scholarship award. Routine items include approval of prior meeting minutes and public comments.

• Resolution to approve partnership agreement with South Carolina National Heritage Corridor for grant funding for the Amphitheater Project on Lake Edgar Brown
• Lower Savannah Council of Governments update by Dr. William Molnar
• Presentation of the SCAC 2025 Scholarship Award to Faith Irons
• Approval of minutes from April 7 special called meeting and April 8 regular meeting

The council approved its agenda for the May 13 meeting. It also approved the minutes from the April 7 special meeting and the April 8 regular meeting. Council members voted to adopt a resolution authorizing a partnership agreement with the South Carolina National Heritage Corridor to provide grant funding for the Lake Edgar Brown amphitheater project, and to allow the county administrator to execute the agreement. The meeting was adjourned at 6:47 p.m. after a motion to adjourn carried.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion carried)
• Approved minutes from April 7 and April 8 meetings (motion carried)
• Approved partnership agreement with SC National Heritage Corridor for Lake Edgar Brown amphitheater grant (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:47 p.m. (motion carried)

County Council

At this special called meeting, the Barnwell County Council will enter executive session to discuss contractual matters related to economic development and receive legal advice on 'Project Paper.' Following that, they will hold the second reading of an ordinance authorizing an infrastructure credit agreement with a company known as 'Project Paper' and ratifying the project in a multi-county industrial park. The council also will vote on a representation agreement with two law firms and a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy for tax year 2024. A budget workshop for the FY 25-26 fiscal year is scheduled.

• Second reading of ordinance for 'Project Paper' infrastructure credit agreement
• Resolution for representation agreement with UPF Litigators, LLC and Alexander & Alexander Attorneys at Law
• Resolution to authorize PILOT agreement with DOE Savannah River Field Office for tax year 2024
• Executive session for contractual matters on economic development and legal advice on 'Project Paper'
• FY 25-26 budget workshop

The council approved its agenda and entered an executive session. It approved the second reading of an infrastructure credit ordinance, a representation agreement resolution, and an intergovernmental agreement with the U.S. Department of Energy for a payment in lieu of taxes. The FY 25‑26 budget proposal was presented, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Entered executive session (motion carried)
• Approved second reading of infrastructure credit ordinance (motion carried)
• Approved representation agreement resolution (motion carried)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with DOE for payment in lieu of taxes (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Healthcare/Safety Committee is meeting to receive updates on EMS services from Ameripro and a MUSC update from the Administrator. The committee will also consider approving the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• EMS Services Update from Dwain Smith of Ameripro
• MUSC Update from Administrator Wright
• Approval of minutes from March 7, 2025 meeting

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance regarding a special source revenue credit for "Project Paper." The body will also discuss expanding the Quad-County Industrial Park and review building inspection services.

• First reading of an Infrastructure Credit Agreement for "Project Paper"
• Resolution to add property to Quad-County Industrial Park I, II, and III
• Intergovernmental Agreement with Town of Blackville regarding flood damage prevention
• Discussion of building inspection services by Safebuilt
• Presentation of the final master plan for the Amphitheater

The council approved a resolution amending the master agreement for the Quad-County Industrial Park to include additional property. It also approved a resolution designating April 2025 as Fair Housing Month and a resolution authorizing the county administrator to execute an intergovernmental agreement with the Town of Blackville on flood‑damage prevention. Additionally, Councilman Alexander’s motion to reappoint Lynn McEwen to the Axis 1 Board was carried.

• Approved amendment to Quad-County Industrial Park master agreement (motion carried)
• Approved resolution designating April 2025 as Fair Housing Month (motion carried)
• Approved resolution authorizing intergovernmental agreement with Town of Blackville flood‑damage prevention ordinance (motion carried)
• Reappointed Lynn McEwen to the Axis 1 Board (motion carried)
• Reappointed Elizabeth Zorn to the Animal Shelter Board (appointment by Chairman)
• Reappointed Wanda Coleman to the Generations Unlimited Board (appointment by Chairman)
• Reappointed Albert Pressley and Retha Corley to the Axis 1 Board (appointment by Vice‑Chairman)
• Approved agenda and minutes for the meeting (motions carried)

County Council

This is a special called meeting of the Barnwell County Council. The only substantive item is a discussion regarding Fee in Lieu of Taxes (FILOT) agreements for the County Industrial Park. The remainder of the agenda consists of routine procedural items such as call to order, invocation, and approval of the agenda.

• Discussion of County Industrial Park FILOT Agreements

Councilman Travis Hooper moved to approve the agenda and Councilman JJ Cruz seconded; the motion carried. Councilman Travis Hooper then moved to adjourn the meeting, seconded by Councilman JJ Cruz; that motion also carried. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Boards, Committees, and Commissions meeting on March 27, 2025, is largely procedural, including a call to order, invocation, approval of the agenda, and adjournment. The sole substantive item is a discussion of CPST II, likely related to capital projects sales tax funding. No additional details or decisions are specified in the agenda.

• Discussion of CPST II (Capital Projects Sales Tax phase II)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Finance Committee is meeting to discuss and receive budget presentations from the Buildings and Grounds and Assessor's Office departments. No votes or decisions are scheduled; the meeting is procedural and informational.

• 9:05 am budget presentation by Buildings & Grounds Director Jamie Sheppard (20 minutes)
• 9:25 am budget presentation by Administrator Wright for the Assessor's Office (20 minutes)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Personnel Committee is meeting to discuss current job openings, policy manual updates, and payroll software. No votes or decisions are scheduled; all items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of policy manual updates
• Discussion of payroll software
• Review of current job openings

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Finance Committee is meeting to hear budget presentations from the Buildings and Grounds and Assessor's Office departments. The presentations are scheduled for 20 minutes each, starting at 9:05 a.m. and 9:25 a.m. respectively. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Budget presentation by Buildings & Grounds Director Jamie Sheppard (20 minutes, 9:05 a.m.)
• Budget presentation by Administrator Wright for the Assessor's Office (20 minutes, 9:25 a.m.)

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Personnel Committee will meet to discuss current job openings, policy manual updates, and payroll software. No binding votes or specific financial actions are scheduled. The agenda is largely administrative and procedural.

• Discussion of current job openings in county departments
• Discussion of updates to the personnel policy manual
• Discussion of payroll software options

County Council

The council will hold first readings and consider resolutions. Key items include the first reading of the FY2026 consolidated budget ordinance that would set tax levy and authorize new fees; a resolution to negotiate a contract with Holstein Appraisals for reappraisal at Savannah River Site; and an inducement resolution for a fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Project Green & Red. Two resolutions of recognition are also on the agenda.

• First reading of ordinance to enact FY2026 consolidated budget, including tax levy and new fees
• Resolution authorizing contract with Holstein Appraisals for reappraisal at Savannah River Site
• Inducement resolution for fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Project Green & Red
• Resolution of recognition for Naomi DeFrenn
• Resolution of recognition for Darlene Cook

The council approved a resolution authorizing the county administrator to negotiate a contract with Holstein Appraisals, Inc. for reappraising land and improvements at the Savannah River Site, to support renegotiating the PILT agreement with DOE. It also approved an inducement resolution for a fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Project Red & Green, and two recognition resolutions. No action was taken on the FY 2025-26 budget ordinance, which was presented for first reading only.

• Approved resolution authorizing contract with Holstein Appraisals, Inc. for Savannah River Site reappraisal
• Approved inducement resolution for fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Project Red & Green
• Approved resolution recognizing Naomi DeFrenn
• Approved resolution recognizing Darlene Cook
• Reappointed Elizabeth Coleman to Planning Commission (District #1)
• Reappointed Harry Felder, Hariel Corley, and Edwin Felton Jr. to boards (District #2)
• Appointed Fire Commission members for Districts #3 and #7 (District #3)
• Approved agenda and minutes for prior meetings

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Finance Committee is meeting to hear budget presentations from the Magistrates' Offices, Detention Center, and Sheriff's Office. The committee will also handle procedural items such as calling the meeting to order, invocation, establishing a quorum, and approving the agenda.

• 9:05 am - Magistrates' Offices budget presentation with Judge Gantt, Chief Magistrate
• 9:25 am - Detention Center budget presentation with Sheriff Griffith
• 9:45 am - Sheriff's Office budget presentation with Sheriff Griffith

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Healthcare/Safety Committee is meeting to discuss emergency services related to BBEMC. The meeting is scheduled for March 7, 2025, at 54 Irving Street.

• Discussion of emergency services related to BBEMC

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Judicial Committee will hear a presentation from Wil Alexander of Alexander & Alexander Attorneys at Law regarding proposed involvement as a plaintiff in litigation. No further details on the case or financial implications are provided in the agenda.

• Presentation of proposed involvement as a plaintiff in litigation by Wil Alexander, Alexander & Alexander Attorneys at Law

Boards, Committees, and Commissions

The Barnwell County Finance Committee will meet to hear budget presentations from three county departments. Directors from the Animal Shelter, Solid Waste, and Public Works will each present for 20 minutes.

• Animal Shelter budget presentation by Marlena Ray
• Solid Waste budget presentation by Frank Williams
• Public Works budget presentation by Curtis Hogg

County Council

This is a special called executive session of the Barnwell County Council. The council will receive legal advice regarding Project Paper and may take action following the session. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Executive session to receive legal advice on Project Paper
• Possible action to be taken following executive session

The Barnwell County Council met in special session on February 14, 2025, and unanimously approved the agenda. The council then entered executive session to receive legal advice regarding 'Project Paper,' but no action was taken during the session. The meeting adjourned without any substantive decisions.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for legal advice on Project Paper (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting without taking action

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hold an executive session to discuss the county's position in an adversarial situation involving a potential claim against the Sheriff's Office, as well as receive legal advice regarding a FILOT agreement with Cascades and a project referred to as Project Paper. The council may take action following the closed session. The agenda is otherwise procedural.

• Executive session discussion of county position in adversarial situation involving potential claim against Sheriff's Office
• Receipt of legal advice regarding a FILOT agreement with Cascades
• Receipt of legal advice regarding Project Paper
• Possible action following executive session

The Barnwell County Council met in executive session on February 11, 2025, to discuss a potential claim against the Sheriff's Office, a FILOT agreement with Cascades, and Project Paper. No action was taken during the executive session, and the meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m. The only formal decisions were approving the agenda and entering executive session.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Alexander, seconded by Cruz)
• Entered executive session to discuss legal matters (motion by Alexander, seconded by Cruz)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:00 p.m. (motion by Hooper, seconded by Hogg)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will discuss a memorandum of understanding with the City of Barnwell for a kayak rental project at Lake Edgar Brown. The body will also consider a resolution regarding county operations during adverse weather and emergencies.

• Memorandum of Understanding with City of Barnwell for Lake Edgar Brown kayak rental project
• Resolution to modify or suspend county operations during adverse weather and emergencies
• MUSC/BBEMC update from Kathy Booker

The council approved a resolution authorizing the county administrator to modify or suspend county operations during adverse weather or other emergencies, with the phrase 'other emergencies' removed after discussion. It also approved a resolution authorizing a memorandum of understanding with the City of Barnwell for a kayak rental project at Lake Edgar Brown, including accepting grants and other financial contributions. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were reports and updates.

• Approved resolution granting administrator emergency powers, amended to remove 'other emergencies'
• Approved MOU with City of Barnwell for kayak rental project at Lake Edgar Brown
• Approved agenda
• Approved minutes for January 14 and January 27, 2025 meetings

County Council

This is a priority-setting workshop for Barnwell County Council, including a board training session led by Lawrence Flynn of Pope Flynn. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the main substantive item being the workshop to discuss county priorities.

• Board training by Lawrence Flynn, Pope Flynn
• Priority setting workshop

The Barnwell County Council met for a priority-setting workshop on January 27, 2025, with no substantive decisions or votes recorded. The meeting focused on board training, including the County Attorney's explanation of legal roles and FOIA requirements, and a discussion of potential projects and priorities for the county. No formal actions were taken beyond approving the agenda and adjourning.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Alexander, second by Cruz)
• Adjourned meeting at 12:55 p.m. (motion by Alexander, second by Hooper)

County Council

The Barnwell County Council will hear the county audit from Scott & Company and consider a resolution to participate in the SC Counties' Property and Liability Trust. Additionally, they will vote on declaring a county vehicle as surplus for disposal, adopt resolutions of recognition, and administer oaths for Representative Lonnie Hosey.

• County Audit Presentation by Michael Slapnik of Scott & Company
• Resolution of Intent to Participate in the SC Counties' Property and Liability Trust of Insurance Services
• Resolution Declaring a County-Owned Vehicle as Surplus Property and Authorizing Its Disposal Through an Exchange Agreement
• Resolutions of Recognition for Ben Kinlaw, Don Harper, and Jerry Creech
• Oaths of Office for Representative Lonnie Hosey

The Barnwell County Council accepted the county audit for the fiscal year, approved a resolution to participate in the SC Counties' Property and Liability Trust, and declared a county-owned vehicle as surplus for disposal via exchange. The council also made appointments to the Lower Savannah Council of Governments Board and the Museum Board, and approved several recognition resolutions.

• Accepted the County Audit (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution of Intent to Participate in SC Counties' Property and Liability Trust (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution declaring a county-owned vehicle as surplus and authorizing disposal through exchange (motion carried)
• Appointed Enterick Lee to Lower Savannah Council of Governments Board (motion carried)
• Appointed Ben Kinlaw to Museum Board (District #5)
• Approved Resolution of Recognition for Ben Kinlaw (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution of Recognition for Don Harper (motion carried)
• Approved Resolution of Recognition for Jerry Creech (motion carried)