Pickens County public meetings in 2022

Pickens County Council

Council approved recommendations for the Highway 11 Scenic Byway ordinance, including a 150ft buffer and a ban on heavy industrial use. The body also appointed several citizens to county boards and extended an investment period for RECAS USA LP and ERA-CONTACT USA, LLC.

• Approved Highway 11 Scenic Byway recommendations: 150ft buffer, no heavy industrial, and commercial design standards within view shed (5-1)
• Approved extension of investment period for 5 years for RECAS USA LP and ERA-CONTACT USA, LLC (6-0)
• Approved renaming the Pickens County Law Enforcement Center to the C. David Stone Pickens County Law Enforcement Center (6-0)
• Approved Inducement Resolution No. 2022-28 for Project Efficiency fee-in-lieu of taxes (6-0)
• Appointed citizens to Behavioral Health Board, Bethlehem Roanoke Water, Emergency Services Advisory Board, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals (6-0)
• Appointed Clay Counts to At-Large seat on the Planning Commission (5-0)
• Appointed Randy Bowers to District 5 seat on the Emergency Services Advisory Board (5-0)
• Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the Annual Capital Improvement Plan update and the Unified Development Ordinance. The body will also consider an ordinance regarding development standards and limitations for the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway.

• LOG NO. 205: Ordinance for development standards on SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• LOG NO. 210: Annual Capital Improvement Plan update
• LOG NO. 141: UDSO

The Committee of Council as a Whole recommended specific buffers and industrial restrictions for the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway. No action was taken regarding the UDSO dirt track requirements or the Annual Capital Improvement Plan update.

• Recommended 150ft buffer for SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (4-1)
• Recommended no heavy Industrial for SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (4-1)
• Recommended Commercial Design Standards fall within view shed (4-1)
• Recommended 1000ft north and south and view shed for SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (4-1)
• No action taken on UDSO Log No. 141 (dirt tracks)
• No action taken on Annual Capital Improvement Plan update Log No. 210

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss three specific log items. The agenda includes a review of the Annual Capital Improvement Plan update and development limitations for the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway.

• Log No. 205: Ordinance to establish standards and limitations on future development on the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• Log No. 210: Annual Capital Improvement Plan update
• Log No. 141: UDSO

The Committee of Council as a Whole recommended specific buffers and land-use restrictions for the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway. No action was taken regarding the UDSO motorized vehicle tracks or the Annual Capital Improvement Plan update.

• Recommended 150ft buffer for SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (4-1)
• Recommended no heavy Industrial use for SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (4-1)
• Recommended Commercial Design Standards fall within view shed (4-1)
• Recommended 1000ft north and south and view shed as depicted on map (4-1)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss an ordinance regarding development limitations on the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway and a county radio system. The body will also consider resolutions for Military Family Appreciation Month and a citizenship award for meritorious service.

• Log No. 205: Ordinance to establish standards and limitations on future development on the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• Log No. 80: County Radio System
• Resolution 2022-28: Celebrating Military Family Appreciation Month
• Resolution 2022-29: Establishing a citizenship award for meritorious service
• Annual Capital Improvement Plan Update

Pickens County Council authorized a request for proposals for a new radio system using ARPA funding. The council also established the Pinnacle Citizenship Award and recommitted the Highway 11 Ordinance to the Committee of the Whole for further discussion.

• Approved RFP for Project 25 UHF or 800 MHz Standalone radio systems (6-0)
• Established the Pinnacle Citizenship Award for meritorious service (6-0)
• Recommitted Highway 11 Ordinance to Committee of the Whole (6-0)
• Tabled officer certification for Litter Control Officers (5-1)
• Approved October 3, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved Annual Capital Improvement Plan Update (6-0)
• Approved first reading in title only of Project Efficiency (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-28 celebrating Military Family Appreciation Month (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss three specific log items. The session includes a review of an ordinance regarding development limitations on the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway.

• Ordinance to establish standards and limitations on future development on the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• County radio system (Log No. 80)
• County constables and certification process (Log No. 209)

The Committee of the Whole voted unanimously (6-0) to issue a request for proposals for either a Project 25 UHF Standalone System or a Project 25 800 MHz Standalone System, using up to $14 million in ARPA funds. Council also tabled (5-1) a discussion on county constable certification for litter control officers, and approved (5-1) a set of recommendations for development standards along the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway, including a 250-foot buffer and commercial design standards north of the highway.

• Approved RFP for Project 25 UHF or 800 MHz standalone radio system (6-0)
• Tabled county constable certification discussion for future consideration (5-1)
• Approved recommendations for Highway 11 development: 250ft buffer, no industrial north of Hwy 11, conservation bank, commercial design standards (5-1)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole is meeting to discuss the county radio system and the certification process for county constables. The body will also consider an ordinance regarding development standards and limitations for the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway.

• County Radio System (Log No. 80)
• County Constables and certification process (Log No. 209)
• Ordinance for development standards on SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway (Log No. 205)

The Committee of the Whole voted unanimously (6-0) to issue a Request for Proposals for either a Project 25 UHF or 800 MHz standalone radio system, funded with up to $14 million in ARPA money. Council tabled (5-1) a discussion on constable certification for litter and code enforcement officers, with Alex Saitta opposed. Council approved (5-1) a set of recommendations for the SC Highway 11 scenic byway ordinance, including a 250-foot buffer on Highway 11, a task for staff to count houses affected by a 100-foot buffer on back roads, a ban on industrial uses north of Highway 11, establishment of a Conservation Bank (without funding), commercial design standards north of Highway 11, and exemptions at major intersections and private roads. Henry Wilson opposed the byway recommendations.

• Approved RFP for Project 25 UHF or 800 MHz standalone radio system (6-0)
• Tabled constable certification for litter/code enforcement officers (5-1, Saitta opposed)
• Approved 250-ft buffer on Highway 11, no limitation behind buffer (5-1, Wilson opposed)
• Directed staff to count houses affected by 100-ft buffer on back roads off Highway 11
• Banned industrial uses north of Highway 11
• Established Conservation Bank (no funding)
• Set commercial design standards for north of Highway 11
• Included exemptions at major intersections and private roads

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will review recommendations for park and trail improvements and consider a budget amendment for the Registration and Elections Office. The body will also hold a third reading of an ordinance regarding the devolution of surplus county real property for the road system.

• Third reading of Ordinance No. 619 regarding surplus county real property for the county road system
• Budget amendment for the Registration and Elections Office
• Recreation Advisory Committee recommendations for Airport Playground, Administration walking trail, and Mile Creek Park
• ATAX Committee recommendations for Mile Creek Park campground and Clemson Paddle Jam
• Resolutions 2022-26 and 2022-27 recognizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month and First Responder Month

The Council voted 4-2 to pursue a fully-insured health benefits process for the upcoming fiscal year, with Councilmen Alex Saitta and Trey Whitehurst opposed. A subsequent amendment to also work toward hiring a broker specializing in self-insured plans passed unanimously. The Council also approved $46,000 in ATAX funding for Mile Creek Park campground repairs and nature trail, and a $14,000 service contract for new election machines. The Highway 11 Scenic Byway development ordinance was kept in committee for further revisions.

• Approved (4-2) pursuing the fully-insured health benefits process for the upcoming fiscal year, with Councilmen Saitta and Whitehurst opposed.
• Approved unanimously an amendment to also instruct the Administrator to work toward hiring a broker specializing in self-insured plans.
• Kept the Highway 11 Scenic Byway development ordinance in committee for staff to bring back proposed changes (5-1, Saitta opposed).
• Approved unanimously $3,000 from District 6 and $7,000 from District 3 for the Pickens County Administration Walking Trail.
• Approved unanimously $1,900 from District 5, $1,900 from District 6, and $15,200 from District 2 for Mile Creek Park picnic area improvements.
• Approved unanimously $46,000 in ATAX funding for Mile Creek Park campground repairs and nature trail.
• Approved unanimously a $14,000 service contract for new election machines for the Registration and Elections Office.
• Approved unanimously (5-1, Saitta opposed) third reading of Ordinance 619 for devolving surplus county road property.

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole voted 4-2 to pursue a fully-insured health benefits process for county employees for the upcoming fiscal year, with further negotiation by the broker. Council also voted 5-1 to keep the Highway 11 development standards ordinance in committee for staff to bring back proposed changes. No final decisions were made on the ordinance.

• Approved motion to pursue fully-insured employee health benefits process (4-2)
• Tabled Highway 11 development standards ordinance for staff to bring back proposed changes (5-1)
• Adjourned meeting at 9:06 p.m. (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council voted 4-2 to pursue a fully-insured health benefits process for the upcoming fiscal year, with a renewal date of January 1, 2023. The motion, made by Councilman Henry Wilson and seconded by Councilman Ensley Feemster, directs staff to negotiate final opportunities with the county's broker. Councilman Alex Saitta and Councilman Trey Whitehurst opposed. Separately, council voted 5-1 to keep a proposed ordinance on Highway 11 development standards in committee for further revisions.

• Approved (4-2): Motion to pursue the fully-insured health benefits process and negotiate final opportunities with the broker.
• Approved (5-1): Motion to keep the Highway 11 Scenic Byway development ordinance in committee for staff to bring back proposed changes.
• Approved (6-0): Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:06 p.m.

Pickens County Council

Pickens County Council approved recreation funding totaling $205,684 across six districts and accommodations tax funding of $107,292 for 14 organizations, both unanimously. The Highway 11 scenic byway ordinance was left in committee with no action. Council also approved a $990,577 shredder and $149,195 GPS package for solid waste, and designated Arial Mill as a historic property (5-1).

• Approved $205,684 in recreation funding for 6 districts (6-0)
• Approved $107,292 in accommodations tax funding for 14 organizations (6-0)
• Approved purchase of Tana 440DT shredder for $990,577 and Carlson GPS package for $149,195 (6-0)
• Designated Arial Mill as a historic property (5-1)
• Approved Resolution 2022-23 supporting Operation Green Light for Veterans (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-24 recognizing September 16 as Charles Heyward Barker Day (6-0)
• Tabled request to reallocate road savings for ambulance purchases for 30 days (6-0)
• Approved compensation adjustments using 1% of FY2023 budget (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council approved $205,684 in recreation funding for district organizations and $107,292 in accommodations tax funding for various projects, both unanimously. The Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance was discussed but left in committee with no action. A motion to have the Solid Waste Ad Hoc Committee discuss solid waste needs also passed unanimously.

• Approved $205,684 in recreation funding for district organizations (6-0)
• Approved $107,292 in accommodations tax funding for 14 projects (6-0)
• Tabled Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance for further discussion
• Approved motion for Solid Waste Ad Hoc Committee to meet on solid waste needs (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole approved 2022 recreation funding recommendations totaling $205,694.25 across all six districts, with remaining balances rolled over, and approved $107,292 in accommodations tax allocations. The Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance was discussed but no action was taken, remaining in committee. A motion was passed to have the Solid Waste Ad Hoc Committee meet to discuss solid waste needs.

• Approved recreation funding recommendations totaling $205,694.25 (6-0)
• Approved accommodations tax funding totaling $107,292 (6-0)
• Tabled Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance for further discussion
• Motion passed for Solid Waste Ad Hoc Committee to meet on solid waste needs (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss standards for devolving surplus real property for the county road system. Members will also consider an ordinance regarding development limitations on the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway.

• Resolution 2022-21: Recognizing September 2022 as National Suicide Prevention Month
• Resolution 2022-22: Substituting Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) items for the Roads and Bridges Department
• Ordinance regarding standards for devolving surplus county real property for the road system
• Ordinance establishing standards and limitations on development on the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• Executive session regarding Project Big Dog and legal advice on the County Road System

Pickens County Council approved allocating up to $2.1 million for property acquisition for Project Big Dog, with $200,000 to be refunded, in a 5-1 vote. The council also approved several resolutions, including recognizing Suicide Prevention Month and substituting a CIP item for a lowboy trailer. The Highway 11 ordinance was sent back to committee with a 90-day moratorium extension. Minutes from prior meetings were approved with an amendment to freeze library revenue for a pay raise.

• Allocated up to $2.1M for Project Big Dog property acquisition, $200K refundable (5-1)
• Approved Resolution 2022-21 recognizing September 2022 as Suicide Prevention Month (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-22 substituting lowboy trailer for dump truck in CIP (6-0)
• Sent Highway 11 ordinance back to committee, extended moratorium 90 days or until third reading (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance for devolving surplus county road property (6-0)
• Approved minutes with amendment to freeze library revenue for 1% pay raise (6-0)
• Extended public forum for nine additional speakers (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda item on County Handbook Policy (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The discussion focuses on the procurement process and the process for abandoned roadways.

• Log No. 152 – Procurement Process
• Log No. 202 – Process for Abandoned Roadway

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole met on July 7, 2022, and discussed two items: the procurement process for the EMS Medical Control Officer and the process for handling abandoned roadways, specifically on Waterstone Drive. No formal action was taken on either item; the meeting was procedural and adjourned unanimously.

• No action taken on EMS Medical Control Officer procurement process
• No action taken on abandoned roadway process for Waterstone Drive
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a work session to discuss health insurance. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Discussion regarding health insurance

The Pickens County Council held a work session to discuss health insurance options, including self-funded plans and TPA services. Council voted unanimously (6-0) to solicit a study from broker advisor Johnathon Logan to gather more information, with the chairman clarifying this is not a bid and procurement code must be followed if moving forward. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to solicit health insurance study from Logan & Associates (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Committee of the Whole will meet to discuss two specific log items. The session focuses on the procurement process and the process for abandoned roadways.

• Log No. 152 – Procurement Process
• Log No. 202 – Process for Abandoned Roadway

The Committee of the Whole met on July 7, 2022, and discussed two items: the procurement process for the EMS Medical Control Officer and the process for handling abandoned roadways, specifically on Waterstone Drive. No formal action was taken on either item. The meeting adjourned unanimously (6-0).

• Discussed procurement process for EMS Medical Control Officer; no action taken
• Discussed process for abandoned roadways on Waterstone Drive; no action taken
• Adjourned meeting unanimously (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will consider a resolution supporting Upcountry Fiber's intent to apply for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants. These grants aim to serve priority unserved areas in Pickens County and the Upstate of South Carolina to address the digital divide.

• Resolution regarding Upcountry Fiber's ARPA grant applications via the South Carolina Office of Regulatory Staff (ORS)
• Executive session regarding a personnel matter

The council unanimously approved a resolution supporting Upcountry Fiber's intent to apply for ARPA grants through the SC Office of Regulatory Staff to serve unserved areas. The June 13 minutes were tabled for review until August, while June 6 minutes were approved. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved resolution supporting Upcountry Fiber's ARPA grant application (6-0)
• Tabled June 13, 2022 meeting minutes for review until August (6-0)
• Approved June 6, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Removed executive session from agenda (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct third readings of two ordinances. These include a proposal to consolidate fire protection districts and the levy of taxes for the 2022-2023 fiscal year.

• Third reading of ordinance to consolidate remaining fire protection districts into a single unified district
• Proposed amendment to the Fiscal Year 2022-23 budget regarding fire protection
• Third reading of ordinance to levy taxes for ordinary county purposes for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2022

Pickens County Council approved the FY2022-23 budget ordinance on third reading (3-2), including a 5% cost-of-living adjustment for county employees funded from fund balance, EMS staffing offset by the GEAR program, a library budget freeze with $270,000 redirected to a 1% pay raise, and $2,500 for clerk training. The council also consolidated fire protection districts into a single unified district (3-2) and approved a motion to fund fire services operating expenses and capital from fund balance (3-2).

• Approved FY2022-23 budget ordinance on third reading (3-2)
• Approved 5% COLA for county employees plus 1% discretionary from fund balance (5-0)
• Approved adding EMS staff offset by GEAR program (5-0)
• Approved freezing library budget, allocating $270,000 to 1% pay raise (5-0)
• Approved $2,500 for clerk to council training from fund balance (5-0)
• Approved fire services funding for operating expenses and capital from fund balance (3-2)
• Approved carrying over scale house improvements to next budget (5-0)
• Approved consolidating fire protection districts into single unified district (3-2)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold public hearings on consolidating fire protection districts and establishing development standards for the SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway. The body is also reviewing a joint industrial park project with Oconee County and budget amendments.

• Ordinance to consolidate remaining fire protection districts into a single unified district
• Ordinance to establish development standards and limitations for the South Carolina Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• Project Queso: Ordinance for a jointly owned industrial/business park with Oconee County
• Budget amendment for revenue and expenditure changes for fiscal year July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022
• Advance of funds from the General Fund to the Pickens County Airport Enterprise Fund

Pickens County Council approved second reading of an ordinance consolidating remaining fire protection districts into a single unified district (4-2), and gave final approval to a joint industrial park with Oconee County. Council also approved $25,000 participation in a regional transportation study, and committed a Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance to committee for further discussion.

• Approved second reading of fire district consolidation ordinance (4-2)
• Approved third reading of joint industrial/business park with Oconee County (6-0)
• Approved $25,000 for GPATS regional transportation study (6-0)
• Committed Highway 11 scenic byway development ordinance to Committee of the Whole (6-0)
• Approved third reading of FY 2021-22 budget amendment (6-0)
• Approved third reading of airport enterprise fund advance ordinance (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Project Go West fee-in-lieu-of-tax incentive agreement (6-0)
• Approved consent agenda including solid waste discussion and council rules on public comment (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting for a work session to discuss the budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023.

• Budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2022-2023

The Pickens County Council met for a budget work session to discuss the FY 2022-2023 proposed budget, covering topics such as emergency services, fire and EMS response times, American Rescue funding, HR changes, and solid waste. No formal decisions or votes were made during the session; it was a discussion-only meeting. The meeting adjourned unanimously at 8:51 p.m.

• No formal decisions made; budget items discussed only
• Adjourned at 8:51 p.m. (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: a proposal for discounted veteran access to county parks (Log No. 204) and a budget work session (Log No. 172). These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Discussion on discounted veteran access to Pickens County parks (Log No. 204)
• Budget work session (Log No. 172)

The Pickens County Council unanimously approved a motion to create a program with the Veteran Affairs Office offering discounts to veterans for Pickens County Parks. The council also held a budget work session on Emergency Services, discussing funding and staffing, and voted to move the budget to third reading (5-1).

• Approved motion to create veteran park discount program with VA office (6-0)
• Moved Emergency Services budget to third reading (5-1)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting with two public hearings: one on a budget amendment for the current fiscal year (Ordinance 613) and one on the tax levy for the upcoming fiscal year (Ordinance 614). The council will also enter executive session to discuss boards and commissions and pending litigation regarding the landfill, with possible actions following.

• Public hearing on Ordinance 613: budget amendment for FY 2021-2022
• Public hearing on Ordinance 614: tax levy for FY 2022-2023
• Executive session: boards and commissions discussion
• Executive session: update on pending landfill litigation

The council held public hearings on budget amendments and the tax levy for FY2022-23, with no comments on the budget amendment and seven speakers on the tax levy. In executive session, the council discussed boards/commissions and pending landfill litigation, then voted 4-2 to direct the administrator to execute a settlement agreement in the MRR/Pickens LLC lawsuit, with Councilmen Saitta and Whitehurst opposed. No action was taken on the boards/commissions discussion.

• Directed administrator to execute settlement agreement on MRR/Pickens LLC lawsuit (4-2)
• Held public hearing on Ordinance 613 (budget amendment) with no public comments
• Held public hearing on Ordinance 614 (tax levy) with seven speakers
• Convened executive session for boards/commissions and legal discussion (6-0)
• Adjourned at 7:20 p.m. (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: a proposal for discounted veteran access to county parks (Log No. 204) and a budget work session (Log No. 172). No votes are scheduled; these are discussion items only.

• Discussion of discounted veteran access to Pickens County parks (Log No. 204)
• Budget work session (Log No. 172)

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole voted unanimously to create a program with the Veteran Affairs Office offering discounts to veterans for county parks. The council also moved the Emergency Services budget to third reading, with one member opposed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to create veteran park discount program with VA Office (6-0)
• Moved Emergency Services budget to third reading (5-1)

Pickens County Council

The council approved first reading of an ordinance to consolidate fire protection districts into a single unified district (3-2), and moved a Sunday alcohol sales referendum ordinance to third reading (5-1). It also approved first reading of a Highway 11 scenic byway development standards ordinance (5-0), and second reading of ordinances for the FY2022-23 tax levy (4-1) and a joint industrial park with Oconee County (5-0). The council approved a $50,000 transfer from reserves for landfill litigation.

• Approved first reading of fire district consolidation ordinance (3-2)
• Moved Sunday alcohol sales referendum ordinance to third reading (5-1)
• Approved first reading of Highway 11 scenic byway development standards ordinance (5-0)
• Approved second reading of FY2022-23 tax levy ordinance (4-1)
• Approved second reading of joint industrial park with Oconee County (5-0)
• Approved $50,000 from reserve fund for landfill litigation (5-0)
• Approved renaming Law Enforcement Center as C. David Stone Pickens County Law Enforcement Center, subject to Planning Commission review (5-0)
• Approved 2030 Comprehensive Plan with amendments, referred to Planning Commission (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting for a budget work session to discuss the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 budget. The agenda includes only the budget discussion and adjournment, with no other items listed.

• Budget discussion for Fiscal Year 2022-2023

The Pickens County Council held a work session to discuss the proposed FY 2022-2023 budget, with no formal votes taken. The finance director presented a balanced budget totaling $82,225,118 for all funds, with no tax increase for the General Fund and a proposed 4% COLA for employees. The session covered revenue and expenditure adjustments, new positions, and various fund changes, but no decisions were made.

• No formal decisions made; budget discussion only

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss four items: renaming the Law Enforcement Center, an ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales, referring the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to the Planning Commission for public input, and an ordinance authorizing an advance of general funds to the Airport Enterprise Fund. These are discussion items, not final votes.

• Renaming of Law Enforcement Center (Log No. 199)
• Ordinance for referendum on Sunday alcohol sales (Log No. 181)
• 2030 Comprehensive Plan referral to Planning Commission (Log No. 192)
• Advance of general funds to Airport Enterprise Fund (Log No. 201)

The Pickens County Council voted unanimously to move forward on renaming the Law Enforcement Center after Sheriff David Stone, based on recommendations. They also advanced an ordinance for a November referendum on Sunday alcohol sales, with a 5-1 vote. The council approved amendments to the 2030 Comprehensive Plan's housing policies and actions, and authorized moving forward with airport funding for a taxiway and hangar project.

• Moved forward on renaming Law Enforcement Center after Sheriff Stone (6-0)
• Moved ordinance for Sunday alcohol sales referendum to third reading (5-1)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan housing policy to include 'economic development catalysts' (6-0)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan housing action to 'Create an economic and regulatory environment...' (6-0)
• Accepted Planning Commission Draft Proposal with amendments (6-0)
• Moved forward on airport funding, removing runway resurfacing and existing taxiway (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole voted unanimously to proceed with renaming the Law Enforcement Center after Sheriff David Stone, based on recommendations. Council also moved an ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales to third reading (5-1), and approved amendments to the 2030 Comprehensive Plan's housing policies and actions. Additionally, they advanced an ordinance to fund airport improvements with a $1.5 million county contribution.

• Renaming Law Enforcement Center after Sheriff David Stone approved (6-0)
• Ordinance for Sunday alcohol sales referendum moved to third reading (5-1)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan housing policy to include 'economic development catalysts' (6-0)
• Amended Comprehensive Plan housing action to 'Create an economic and regulatory environment...' (6-0)
• Accepted Planning Commission Draft Proposal with amendments (6-0)
• Advanced airport funding ordinance, removing runway resurfacing and existing taxiway (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding its regular meeting with several first-reading ordinances, including a budget amendment for FY 2021-22, a tax levy for FY 2022-23, an advance of funds to the airport enterprise fund, and a joint industrial park with Oconee County. A public hearing and second reading will consider a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales. The council will also hear an annual update from the Appalachian Council of Governments and consider a motion to allocate $98,000 to the Old Stockade Jail project.

• Public hearing and second reading for Sunday alcohol sales referendum
• First reading of ordinance to levy taxes for FY 2022-23
• First reading of ordinance authorizing advance of funds to Pickens County Airport Enterprise Fund
• First reading of ordinance for joint industrial/business park with Oconee County (Project Queso)
• Motion to allocate $98,000 to Old Stockade Jail project

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss four items: the old jail, a referral of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to the Planning Commission for public input, an ordinance amending litter and dumping penalties in unincorporated areas, and a budget work session. These are discussion items, not final votes.

• Discussion on old jail (Log No. 142)
• 2030 Comprehensive Plan referral to Planning Commission (Log No. 192)
• Ordinance No. 572 amending Chapter 34 for illegal litter and dumping remedies and penalties (Log No. 123)
• Budget work session (Log No. 172)

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole met on March 21, 2022, and approved $98,000 in funding for a program at the Old Stockade Jail, with Councilman Alex Saitta opposed. The committee also discussed the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, a litter ordinance, and the budget, but took no action on these items.

• Approved $98,000 for Old Stockade Jail program (5-1, Saitta opposed)
• No action on 2030 Comprehensive Plan referral
• No action on litter ordinance amendment
• No action on budget work session

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to enter executive session to review applications for boards and commissions. No other substantive business is listed on the agenda; the meeting is expected to adjourn after any actions from the executive session.

• Executive session under S.C. Code 30-4-70(a)(1) to review board and commission applications
• Possible actions following executive session

The Pickens County Council held a special-called meeting on March 21, 2022, immediately following the Committee of the Whole meeting. The council entered executive session under S.C. Code of Laws Section 30-4-70(a)(1) to review applications for boards and commissions. No substantive decisions were recorded in the minutes; the meeting was procedural, with no actions taken after the executive session and no votes recorded.

• Entered executive session to review board and commission applications
• No actions taken following executive session
• Meeting adjourned without recorded votes or decisions

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss several items, including the future of the old jail, a referral of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan to the Planning Commission for public input, an ordinance amendment addressing illegal litter and dumping, and a budget work session. These are discussion items, not final votes.

• Discussion on old jail (Log No. 142)
• Referral of 2030 Comprehensive Plan to Planning Commission (Log No. 192)
• Ordinance No. 572 amending Chapter 34 for litter/dumping penalties (Log No. 123)
• Budget work session (Log No. 172)

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole approved $98,000 in funding for a program at the Old Stockade Jail, with a 5-1 vote. The council also discussed the 2030 Comprehensive Plan, a litter ordinance, and the budget, but took no action on those items.

• Approved $98,000 for Old Stockade Jail program (5-1)
• No action on 2030 Comprehensive Plan referral
• No action on Ordinance No. 572 (litter and dumping penalties)
• No action on budget work session

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold first reading of an ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales, and third reading of ordinances to combine construction and zoning boards of appeals and to apply redistricting criteria based on the 2020 Census. They will also hold a public hearing on a six-month moratorium on development permits along SC Highway 11. The meeting includes routine items like minutes approval, committee reports, and an executive session.

• First reading of ordinance for referendum on Sunday alcohol sales
• Third reading of ordinance to combine Construction Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Third reading of ordinance applying redistricting criteria based on 2020 Census
• Public hearing and third reading of ordinance for six-month development moratorium along SC Highway 11
• Consent agenda: 2022 recreation and accommodations tax funding requests

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss several items, including the county radio system and a unified dispatch plan, a potential ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales, combining the Construction and Zoning Boards of Appeals, and council redistricting. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• County radio system and unified dispatch plan (Log No. 80, 182)
• Ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales (Log No. 181)
• Ordinance to combine Construction Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals (Log No. 195)
• Council redistricting (Log No. 194)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to conduct the second reading of an ordinance that applies redistricting criteria for council districts based on the 2020 U.S. Census. This is a formal step in the approval process; the ordinance is not yet final.

• Second reading of ordinance applying redistricting criteria for Pickens County Council districts based on 2020 Census

The Pickens County Council held a special-called meeting on February 22, 2022, immediately following the Committee of the Whole meeting. The council unanimously approved (6-0) the second reading of an ordinance applying redistricting criteria for council districts based on the 2020 U.S. Census. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:18 p.m.

• Approved second reading of ordinance applying redistricting criteria for Pickens County Council districts based on 2020 U.S. Census (6-0)
• Adjourned the special-called meeting at 7:18 p.m. (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council is meeting as a Committee of the Whole to discuss several items, including the county radio system, a unified dispatch plan, a potential ordinance for a referendum on Sunday alcohol sales, combining the construction and zoning boards of appeals, and council redistricting. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Discussion on county radio system and unified dispatch plan
• Ordinance for referendum on Sunday alcohol sales
• Ordinance to combine Construction Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Council redistricting discussion

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is meeting to consider several ordinances and resolutions, including redistricting based on the 2020 Census, a six-month development moratorium along SC Highway 11, and a joint industrial park with Oconee County. They will also hold public hearings on a textile mill site certification and the industrial park, and discuss a Highway 11 corridor study update.

• First reading of ordinance applying redistricting criteria for council districts based on 2020 Census
• Second reading of ordinance to combine Construction Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals
• Second reading of ordinance imposing 6-month development moratorium along SC Highway 11 Scenic Byway
• Public hearing and third reading of ordinance to certify vacant textile building at 225 Ruhamah Rd, Liberty as textile mill site
• Public hearing and third reading of ordinance to develop joint industrial/business park with Oconee County (Project Ruby Slipper)

Pickens County Council approved a six-month moratorium on development permits along SC Highway 11, amended to protect landowner property rights, and passed first reading of a redistricting ordinance based on the 2020 Census. They also approved a settlement with Upstate Grading and reappointed Robert Ballentine to the Planning Commission (4-2).

• Approved six-month development moratorium along SC Highway 11 (6-0)
• Approved first reading of redistricting ordinance based on 2020 Census (6-0)
• Approved settlement with Upstate Grading in mediation (6-0)
• Reappointed Robert Ballentine to Planning Commission District 1 (4-2)
• Approved wayfinding signage resolution for Pickens County (6-0)
• Approved second reading to combine Construction and Zoning Boards of Appeals, sent to committee (6-0)
• Certified vacant textile building at 225 Ruhama Rd as textile mill site (6-0)
• Approved joint industrial park with Oconee County (Project Ruby Slipper) (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: fire fee revenue (Log No. 190) and council redistricting (Log No. 194). No formal votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only. A budget planning session will follow.

• Discussion of fire fee revenue (Log No. 190)
• Discussion of council redistricting (Log No. 194)

The Pickens County Council Committee of the Whole recommended refunding the difference to taxpayers who paid more than $1,800 on their commercial fire fee, and voted to continue discussing the fire fee revenue structure for the next budget year. The committee also recommended moving forward with the Option 2 Draft Map for council redistricting, to be considered for first reading in title only. Both motions passed unanimously (5-0), with Chairman Bowers absent during those votes. The meeting was procedural, with no final approvals or denials.

• Recommended refunding commercial fire fee overpayments above $1,800 (5-0)
• Recommended continuing fire fee revenue structure discussion for next budget year (5-0)
• Recommended first reading of ordinance for Option 2 Draft Map for redistricting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a budget planning session to discuss council priorities and the upcoming budget. The meeting is a discussion session, with no formal votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Discussion of council priorities and budget planning

The Pickens County Council met for a priorities and budget work session to discuss goals and objectives for the next fiscal year. Topics included a no-tax-increase budget, employee raises, 911 dispatch, an EMS station, and other items. No formal decisions or votes were taken during the session; the only action was a unanimous motion to adjourn.

• Adjourned work session unanimously

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: fire fee revenue (Log No. 190) and council redistricting (Log No. 194). No votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only, followed by a budget planning session.

• Discussion of fire fee revenue (Log No. 190)
• Discussion of council redistricting (Log No. 194)

The Pickens County Committee of the Whole recommended refunding the difference to commercial taxpayers who paid more than $1,800 on their fire fee, and voted to move forward with the Option 2 Draft Map for council redistricting. Both motions passed unanimously (5-0) with Chairman Bowers absent. The fire fee revenue structure discussion will continue for the next budget year.

• Recommended refunding commercial fire fee overpayments above $1,800 (5-0)
• Recommended first reading of ordinance for Option 2 Draft Map for redistricting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting to discuss a request from the Youth Leadership Academy regarding a state grant for a school resource officer. The council will also enter executive session to discuss legal matters, including litigation against SCDHEC and MRR, and opioid litigation. Action may be taken following the executive session.

• Request from Youth Leadership Academy for state grant for school resource officer
• Executive session on legal matters: Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR
• Executive session on opioid litigation

The Pickens County Council unanimously approved creating a new School Resource Officer position funded by a state grant with no county match, and adopted a resolution accepting the South Carolina Opioid Litigation as proposed by county attorneys. No action was taken on the Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR legal matter.

• Created School Resource Officer position (6-0)
• Adopted resolution accepting South Carolina Opioid Litigation (6-0)
• No action taken on Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: fire fee revenue (Log No. 190) and council redistricting (Log No. 194). No votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only. A budget planning session will follow.

• Discussion of fire fee revenue (Log No. 190)
• Discussion of council redistricting (Log No. 194)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a special-called meeting primarily to enter executive session to discuss legal matters related to the case Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR. No other substantive business is on the agenda; the council may take actions as needed following the closed session.

• Executive session under S.C. Code 30-4-70(a)(2) for legal matters
• Case: Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council is holding a budget planning session to discuss council priorities and the upcoming budget. The agenda includes only a welcome, a discussion item, and adjournment, with no specific proposals or decisions listed.

• Council priorities and budget planning discussion

The Pickens County Council held a special-called meeting on January 18, 2022, and voted to move forward with a settlement agreement in the legal case Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR. The motion carried 4-2, with Councilman Alex Saitta and Councilman Trey Whitehurst opposed. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved settlement agreement in Pickens County vs. SCDHEC and MRR (4-2)
• Convened executive session for legal discussion (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:25 p.m. (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council will hold a Committee of the Whole meeting to discuss two items: fire fee revenue (Log No. 190) and council redistricting (Log No. 194). No votes are scheduled; the meeting is for discussion only, followed by a budget planning session.

• Discussion of fire fee revenue (Log No. 190)
• Discussion of council redistricting (Log No. 194)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold its regular meeting with public forum, approval of minutes, and several resolutions and ordinances. Key items include recognizing National Blood Donor Month, approving the FY2023 budget calendar, and hearing a staff update on road maintenance funding. The council will also consider first reading of an ordinance to combine the Construction Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals, and second readings for a textile mill site certification and a joint industrial park with Oconee County. An executive session is scheduled for legal, contractual, personnel, and board applications matters.

• Resolution 2022-01 recognizing January 2022 as National Blood Donor Month
• Resolution 2022-02 approving FY2023 budget calendar
• First reading of ordinance to combine Construction and Zoning Boards of Appeals
• Second reading of ordinance to certify vacant textile building at 225 Ruhamah Rd, Liberty as textile mill site
• Second reading of ordinance for joint industrial/business park with Oconee County (Project Ruby Slipper)

The council unanimously approved a first reading of an ordinance imposing a 180-day moratorium on development along Highway 11, and also approved first reading of an ordinance to combine the Construction and Zoning Boards of Appeals. They extended COVID-19 sick pay for 90 days and made appointments to the ATAX and Grievance Committees.

• Approved first reading of 180-day Highway 11 development moratorium (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance to combine Construction and Zoning Boards of Appeals (6-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance certifying vacant textile building at 225 Ruhamah Rd as textile mill site (6-0)
• Approved first reading of ordinance for joint industrial/business park with Oconee County (Project Ruby Slipper) (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-01 recognizing January 2022 as National Blood Donor Month (6-0)
• Approved Resolution 2022-02 approving FY2023 budget calendar with amendment adding Priorities and Budget Work Session (6-0)
• Extended COVID-19 sick pay for 90 days (6-0)
• Appointed Barbara Shehan and Russ Gantt to ATAX Committee, Brandon Looper and Rodney Robinson to Grievance Committee (6-0)