2014 Council Minutes

December 9, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING

DECEMBER 9, 2014

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey, Paul Fata. Others present were Sam Joye, Hannah Hickman, Jay Schwedler, Sonny Sims, Ray Alexander.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham called the meeting to order and welcomed everyone. Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 9, 2014

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the minutes as written. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 AMEND THE FY 2015 BUDGET ORDINANCE TO REMOVE SECTIONS 4 AND 12 FROM THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES MANUAL

Mr. Watkins said the County is adopting an Employee Handbook by resolution at the next meeting. He said that Sections 4 and 12 needed to be removed from the front part of the budget book before this could be done.

Councilman Addison asked if an employee can be terminated for any reason. Mr. Watkins responded that South Carolina is an “at-will” work state.

Mr. Watkins then said that the Employee Handbook had been sent to an employment attorney to make sure we are up-to-date with current laws.

Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, December 9, 2014

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve ordinance for second reading. Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

                A.TRANSFER OF HOSPITALITY FUNDING TO PURCHASE RESTROOM FOR TENNIS COURTS ON                ROLAND STREET

 Mr. Watkins said the County had been approached by City Council in recent years about installing a bathroom at the tennis courts. He said tournaments are played there, and there are no restroom facilities on site. Mr. Watkins said that the County can utilize hospitality funds to do this project. Mr. Watkins said the bathroom would be the same style as the one in Lynchburg. We will utilize City water and sewer and the City has agreed to provide this as well as maintain the restrooms.

 **Councilman Addison mentioned that he was concerned about the diameter of the hole of the toilet at Garrett Field in reference to it being dangerous for a small child. He said he was also concerned that there was no running water and was concerned about the sanitation of the bathroom.

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 UPDATE TO COUNCIL ON BUILDING PLANS FOR ANIMAL SHELTER

 Mr. Sonny Sims was present to update Council on the progress of the Animal Shelter.

 Mr. Watkins said that the County had applied for $50K through USDA and should be receiving the money in the very near future.   He said the project should be put out for bid in a couple of months.

 Mr. Watkins said the final specs would be run through the Building, Land & Property committee. He said he hoped to be in the Animal Shelter by midsummer.

 COMMITTEE REPORTS  

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey was not present

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley thanked Chairman Windham for representing the County on the COG board regarding the bypass. He said hopefully the citizens will get involved to see what they want. Councilman Beasley said the City was with us when we first started this process.

Chairman Windham said that it is our responsibility to continue what Councilman Beasley started. He said the truck bypass would have bigger impact on economic development. Chairman Windham said that the City voted 4-2 against doing the study. He said there were $5 million in earmarked funds and $14 million in guide share funds.

Councilman Addison asked if the expiration date was January, 2015.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, December 9, 2014

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley reminded everyone that the County had merged with Sumter in “The Link” and recognized Jay Schwedler to make a few comments.

Mr. Schwedler said he would be remiss if he did not mention the impact the truck bypass would have on economic development. He said this would provide tremendous growth opportunities in the next 20-30 years.

Mr. Schwedler said The Link kickoff was in September and was well attended. He commented that Gordon Eckley was appointed Chairman of The Link Board.

He reported that they had six visits to the Ahlstrom Building, were working on two existing expansions, and two visits are coming with investors. All meetings have been positive.

He also mentioned that Gregg Thompson went to India with the Governor to represent The Link.

The three representatives from Lee County are Gordon Eckley, Bruce Snipes, Thompson Issac.

Vice-Chairman Eckley said he was proud to serve as first chairman of The Link.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Councilman McCutchen said that he appreciated working with the Council and staff for the last 20 years.

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey thanked the Council for the 1% Christmas bonus and the Thanksgiving meal. He said they were in basketball season and they were trying to encourage more girls to participate.

He said they had the ribbon cutting at Garrett Park and Senator Malloy and Senator McElveen were in attendance. Councilman Addison was also in attendance.

He said the Christmas parade for the Chamber would be on December 13. He also said that the Chamber would have a Chat and Chew on February 4.

Councilman Addison said the parks looked good. He also said that transportation is moving along. He asked Alan to look at the possibility of painting the hallway of the transportation offices. Councilman Addison reminded everyone that Quality of Life still meets every quarter.

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said the Council approved the 2014 General Obligation Bond for $600,000.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said he met with Jim Stewart in reference to window upgrades for the courthouse.

He said that the dedication of the Spring Hill Fire Department was a success. He thanked Mike Bedenbaugh and his staff for their hard work. He said that he especially wanted to thank Brian Bradt for

Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, December 9, 2014

all of his work on this project. He said he did the interior finish and other things that saved the County money.

Mr. Watkins said that he and Connie met with the Election Board. The people on the board are Sytricia Price, George Wallace, Carl Whetsel, Mr. Brisbon and Deloris LeGrant.   They are in the hiring process of a new director.

PUBLIC COMMENT

There was no public comment.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Addison.

 

_______________________________________   _________________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                     VICE-CHAIRMAN

  ______________________________________   ___________________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                     MINUTES APPROVED

November 19, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED MEETING

NOVEMBER 19, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Adminitrator/Clerk to Council; Tim DuBose, Danny Simon, Dwayne Huggins, James Davis, Wayne Capell. Others present were Johnette Caughman, Chad Beasley, Reggie Caughman, Johnette Caughman, Ann Segars, Michael Kozlarek.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Chairman Windham said the agenda needed to be amended in that Item 3B should be deleted and that Update on Airport should be as Second reading.

 Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the agenda with changes. Councilman Beasley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 UPDATE OF THE LEE COUNTY AIRPORT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Mr. Watkins said that the first reading on this matter on November 12, 2014. He said that County was submitting a request for FAA to change to our CIP to move T Hangers up to 2015. He said that if we develop the airport, we would have to have 10 based aircraft to continue receiving $150,000 a year from FAA.

They have not sent updated CIP list. Mr. Watkins said the CIP will change before the third reading because we do not want to lose the money.

Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, November 19, 2014

Vice-Chairman Eckley said that the County hopes to have rental income from the hangers.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for second reading approval. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. APPROVAL TO ISSUE A GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FOR LEE COUNTY

Mr. Watkins reviewed the expenditure of items that were to be covered under the bond. He said the bond would be in the amount of approximately $600,000. Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

Representative Grady Brown said that Council should write the delegation to support SCAC in reference to road responsibility. Mr. Watkins said that we are inviting legislative delegation to our December meeting. Mr. Brown said the “County does not want state roads.”

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:02 on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

 ____________________________________ _______________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                             VICE-CHAIRMAN

  ___________________________________   ________________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                              MINUTES APPROVED

November 12, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING

NOVEMBER 12, 2014

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey. Others present were Michael Kozlarek; Johnette Caughman, George Roberts.

 FOIA 

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 PUBLIC HEARING

 ISSUANCE OF GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND

The public hearing was opened at 9:30 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

Mr. Watkins said that he met with Buildings, Land & Property committee last Friday to discuss the plans for expenditures of the general obligation bond. He said that Michael Kozlarek, the attorney handling this bond, was also present to answer any questions that anyone may have.

Mr. Watkins reviewed a project list intended for the general obligation bond. This list included repairs to the Courthouse, refurbishing roofs on some county buildings, purchases for Public Works, purchases for Sheriff’s Department, and upgrading of the IT equipment for county.

He said there would be a called meeting next Wednesday to hopefully have third reading to proceed with the issuance of this bond.

Vice-Chairman Eckley said that if we were able to redo the windows of the courthouse, they should look the same as before.

Chairman Windham opened the floor for questions or comments, and there were none.

The public hearing was closed at 9:42 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Councilman Addison. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, November 12, 2014

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

NOVEMBER 12, 2014

FAMILY COURT ROOM

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham welcomed everyone and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 The agenda was approved as written by a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilperson Josey. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF OCTOBER 14, 2014

 The minutes of the October 14, 2014 meeting were approved as mailed on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 AMEND THE FY 2015 BUDGET ORDINANCE TO REMOVE SECTONS 4 AND 12 FROM

THE POLICIES AND PROCEDURES SECTIONS

Mr. Watkins said the county was in the process of issuing an employee handbook. He said that the handbook would hopefully be adopted in the December meeting. However, in order to get the handbook adopted, the county would first have to revoke the current policies and procedures section that appears in the front of the budget book.

Mr. Watkins said that Lee County is the only county in the state that does not have an Employee Handbook. He said that sections 4 and 12 should be removed from the budget book. He then said that a Resolution would be done in December to adopt the new policies and procedures handbook.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, November 12, 2014

  1. UPDATE OF LEE COUNTY AIRPORT CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

Mr. Watkins said that the new requirement for airports is to have 10 aircraft based there to receive funding. Currently, we have two aircraft at the airport.

Mr. George Roberts said that the county has to use the money so that we do not lose it.  

Mr. Watkins said that we currently have $400,000 banked and had discussed installing containment fencing and paving at the airport. The cost of the fencing alone was approximately $256,000. Councilman Beasley asked if the county could take the money and build more hangers to house more planes to use as a tax base. He said that would be better than building a fence. He suggested that the county build as many hangers as we could with the funds that we have.  

Mr. Watkins said the Buildings, Land and Properties would meet again to further discuss.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman Addison second the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. APPROVAL TO ISSUE A GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FOR LEE COUNTY

Mr. Watkins said this matter had been discussed in the public hearing. He said that after third reading, this bond will go out for bids on interest rates. Michael Kozlarek said interest rates were running around 2%.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for second reading approval of ordinance. Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

  1. TRANSFER OF HOSPITALITY FUNDS TO PURCHASE RESTROOM FOR TENNIS COURTS ON ROLAND STREET

Mr. Watkins said this had been approved by City of Bishopville. He said Thaddeus Dickey had gotten prices on precast molds, which cost about $45,000. Mr. Watkins said he got an architect to design basic plan with the same dimensions as size of precast mold, and it would run about one half the cost. Mr. Watkins said county needed to approve to authorize up to $40,000 out of hospitality funds.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for second reading approval. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, November 12, 2014

RESOLUTION FROM COUNCIL AUTHORIZING THE SALE OF COUNTY VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT ON GOVDEALS.COM

Mr. Watkins said he met with Buildings, Land & Property committee and discussed the county vehicles and equipment the county needed to sell on GovDeals.com. He said the Council had previously authorized the sale of vehicles, but since public safety equipment was included, he felt that a resolution should be done.

Vice-Chairman Eckley asked if a minimum bid would be placed on the ambulances, and Mr. Watkins said that a minimum bid could be placed.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the resolution. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote and motion carried. All voted in favor.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey had no report.

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said his committee met on Friday to discuss the Policies and Procedures Manual with Dwayne and Administrator. He reported that the Committee recommended to Council to make said changes and then do a Resolution to adopt the handbook.

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley said that a contractor will be meeting with Administrator at 2:30 today in regards to restrooms in Bryant Building.

He also reported that next Friday, November 21, the Spring Hill Fire Department will be dedicated.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Councilman McCutchen said that the Fire Department is going to be real good for the citizens of District 7.

Dwayne Huggins said that Saturday is Public Safety Day from 11-2. He said that the Sheriff’s Department, EMS, and Fire Department will be represented.

Tim DuBose said that EMS was sponsoring a team for Relay for Life this year and was sponsoring a Turkey Shoot each weekend until November 22.

Chairman Windham asked when ISO would be here again in regards to the new fire station. Mr. Huggins said that generally they come back six months after new fire station is in operation.

He added that if someone has a high insurance rate, Mike Bedenbaugh could give them a letter for their insurance company.

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey said that football was finished and they were currently registering for Basketball.

He thanked the Council for their support for the Cotton Festival and said it was a huge success.

He referenced the Christmas parade and said that some merchants are going to do some giveaways.

He said the Chamber currently has 75 members.

Councilman Addison said that the Recreation Committee met to review community concerns about the basketball court and playground at Woodrow.

  1. WAYS AND MEANS

Councilman Fountain said that the County would have no need to use the TAN this year.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins referenced the local government spread sheet in the packet. He said the State has gone from $6.9 billion to $8.5 billion in 2014/2015.   This year Lee County had a shortage of $259,000, or 7 to 8 mills, in its local government funding.  The county can only go up 2.1 mills to make up the difference. However, the state has not included new funding for local governments.

He reported that the County election went well. They are in the process of hiring a new director.

He wanted to commend Ms. LeGrant and Stan Barnhill for the great job they did during the election.

Mr. Watkins said the County is hosting their annual Holiday Dinner for employees on Monday, November 24.

He also said the new Animal Shelter is about to be ready to be put out for bid.  

Chairman Windham said in reference to the animal shelter, the county may want to give the land back to W. C. Scarborough, as directed in the deed and maybe get the land cleaned up at the old Animal Shelter.  

Chairman Windham also said that an inventory of roads would be available for each councilmember for their respective districts. Mr. Watkins said that he had Dwayne and Steven working with a list of all public and private roads and reviewing roads maintained by County and were sorting by paved/rocked/dirt. Mr. Watkins said that he met with Dwayne, Steven and Jason on the road situation.

Chairman Windham said that the auditor, in regards to the archives, agreed that during the month of December, recommended visiting Kershaw and Darlington county archives. He also recommended appointing a 5 member Archives Commission.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Councilman McCutchen. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 ___________________________________ _________________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                            VICE-CHAIRMAN

 __________________________________   __________________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                             MINUTES APPROVED

October 14, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR MEETING

OCTOBER 14, 2014

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey, Tim DuBose, Danny Simon, Mike Bedenbaugh, Paul Fata. Others present were Major Simon, Naomi Price, Dr. Wanda Andrews, Eloise Witherspoon, Willie Mae Muldrow, Bobbi Adams, Johnette Caughman.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting information were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. Councilman Addison gave the invocation. Chairman Windham welcomed Councilman McCutchen back and said how glad everyone was to see him.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

             Chairman Windham said there were two changes to the agenda. He said that two items            

            Needed to be added: 5B. Local Government Fund Resolution and 5C. Appointment of                  Betty Lowery to Lee County Library Board.

             Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the agenda with changes.

            Councilperson Josey seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and

            Motion carried. All voted in favor.

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, October 14, 2014

             REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF         SEPTEMBER 9, 2014

 `           Councilperson Josey said one revision needed to be made to the minutes. Mrs. Plumber, of DHEC, said that the charge for a one-time inspection fee was now $150.

             Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the minutes with the revision. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and

            Motion carried.   All voted in favor.

             REQUEST FOR MOTION ON FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 APPROVAL TO ISSUE A GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND FOR LEE COUNTY

Chairman Windham asked Mr. Watkins to give an overview. He gave an overview

            of the county’s current bonds. He said the 2011 bond will come off next year, which is  the reason the county was looking to reissue 2014 general obligation bond of   ximately $600,000.

             The general obligation bond will be used to make courthouse upgrades, such as refurbishing windows, repair sidewalk, replace carpet, replace concrete form. Some other upgrades would include refurbishing roofs at EMS and Mental Health. Funds would also go to purchase one work truck and roll off container/compactor at Public Works; purchase two vehicles t replace/upgrade radio equipment at Sheriff’s Office;Upgrade operating computer systems in county offices and departments.

             Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor. Chairman Windham asked Vice-Chairman Eckley to have a committee meeting to discuss the upgrades the bond will cover.

 AGREEMENT BETWEEN SHERIFF’S OFFICE AND LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PROVIDE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS

Mr. Watkins said the purpose of this agreement was to provide security at the schools. Sheriff Simon said this was a formalized agreement between the school superintendent And the county council. He said it would pay for 9 month out of a year.

 Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, October 14, 2014

  1. TRANSFER OF HOSPITALITY FUNDING TO PURCHASE RESTROOM FOR TENNIS COURTS ON ROLAND STREET

Mr. Watkins said the City had discussed this for several years. He said the City would be responsible for maintaining the restroom and hospitality funds will pay to have constructed. Mr. Watkins said the City would provide the water and the restroom maintenance.

            Chairman Windham said this will encourage more use of the tennis facilities. Mr.

            Watkins will get more information on the cost of construction.

             Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for first reading. Vice-Chairman

            Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion  carried. All voted in favor.

             RESOLUTION PROCLAIMING LEE COUNTY AS A PURPLE HEART COUNTY           

                        Vice-Chairman Eckley read the resolution and made the motion to approve. Councilman

            Beasley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

             RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE FULL FUNDING OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT FUND

             Mr. Watkins said the purpose of this fund was to provide state money to offset the cost

Of county providing state and local services. He said the funding went from $1.1 million    in 2008 to $626,000 in 2009. The proposed funding was approximately $726,000, which falls about $250,000 short. He said the State has limited our ability to raise taxes. He said the most we can raise is  2.1 mills, so it would be very hard to make up the difference.

             Mr. Watkins said the passing of this resolution would be to fully encourage our  Legislature to fully fund for the next year.

           Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded.

            Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

             APPOINTMENT OF BETTY LOWERY TO LEE COUNTY LIBRARY BOARD     

            Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve the appointment. Councilman

            Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion  carried. All voted in favor.

             Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, October 14, 2014

 SYLVIA SCOTT WILL BRIEF COUNCIL ON THE UNITED NEGRO COLLEGE FUND

             Ms. Scott said this year was the 70th Anniversary of the United Negro College Fund. She

            said it was founded in 1944 and has helped 400,000 students. Ms. Scott said that 90% of

            every dollar goes to scholarships to help students and provides aid to 900 colleges in the

            Country. She said that the UNCG was a great investment and asked Council members to  make a contribution individually and as businesses. She said it could be for any amount.

             She also said there was a Gala fundraiser to be held on November 5 at the Florence Civic  Center and tickets were $100 each.

             Chairman Windham thanked her for the presentation.

             COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey said that on September 27, Tim DuBose sponsored a health fair in Lynchburg, and it was successful.

Eloise Witherspoon, Director, of Adult Ed in Lee County, was present to give a presentation on the things that Adult Ed offers in the county.

She said they currently have 80 students, and she gave current specific information on

performance based funding and measures as well as other pertinent information.

 Councilperson Josey recognized Dr. Andrews in light of the recent tragedies in the community. Dr. Andrews said she appreciated the thoughts and prayers from the community during this time of grief. She said that Homecoming festivities are scheduled for Friday night and the parade is scheduled for Friday as well.

 PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said his committee had a meeting last month and reviewed the revised Policies and Procedures manual. He said they were going to schedule another meeting and be prepared to recommend any changes to council before the next meeting.

 Page 5, Lee County Council Minutes, October 14, 2014

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley said the County kicked off our economic development meeting with Sumter, which is known as “The Link” on September 30. He said it was well attended and said the Board will meet on October 25.

He said the Spring Hill Fire Department is complete, and the two new fire trucks are there. He said the dedication will be sometime in November.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Tim DuBose said he started an EMS community outreach program and signed up 22 participants, partnering with Care House.

He said flu season has started and expected to peak in February and encouraged people to get flu shots now.

He said EMS responded to 325 calls last month and generated over $80,000 in revenue.

Danny Simon said that Sheriff’s Office has been busy for the last two months. He said they responded to 30 breakins and have made several arrests. He said these break-ins were happening at the county lines and during the day.

He said that the Lee County Sheriff’s Office was awarded SLED Rapid ID, in connection to “wanted” people.

Mike Bedenbaugh said they responded to 59 calls and were awarded 200 smoke detectors through a grant.

Major Simon said that the total count for the prison was 360 and the Sumter population was up 22%.

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Mr. Dickey said they were still in football season. He said he had been working with Ms.

Witherspoon with the WIB board.

He reported that the Cotton Festival was very successful.

Councilman Addison said that we need to get our kids involved in after-school programs.

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said the County is in good shape on the budget and probably will not have to do a TAN this year.

 Page 6, Lee County Council Minutes, October 14, 2014

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said he met with Animal Shelter director, Doris Winstead and the architect. He said the County will receive $50,000 from USDA and he authorized the architect to put the final design together.

Mr. Watkins said he would be attending a legislative meeting on Friday.

He also said the County was planning some follow up meetings with The Link and Workforce Development and Adult Ed.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Bobbi Adams referenced the American Cross fundraiser at Pearl Fryar’s Garden was very successful. She said the last count was $5,000 and said this would stay in Lee County. She said that a family of four could easily cost around $300 to assist them in the event of a fire. She said any donations should be mailed to Kay Farmer.

Thaddeus Dickey said that Jackie Howard’s father passed away.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

  1. COUNCIL WILL ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A CONTRACTUAL MATTER

Council entered Executive Session at 11:10 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley.

Council came out of Executive Session at 11:25 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley. No votes were taken.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 11:26 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Addison.

 ___________________________________   __________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                           VICE-CHAIRMAN

 ___________________________________   __________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                               MINUTES APPROVED

September 9, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

SEPTEMBER 9, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Paul Fata. Others present were Bobbi Adams, Lee Plumber, DHEC, Debbie Tindal, Andrea James Favor, Carrie Gass, Major Simon, Jay Schwedler, Thaddeus Dickey.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

             Chairman Windham opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. Vice-Chairman         

            Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

             REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

             Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed. Councilman     

            Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion

            Carried. All voted in favor.

             REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF

            AUGUST 13, 2014 AND JOINT MEETING OF CITY AND COUNTY COUNCILS ON AUGUST 18, 2014

             Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the minutes of regular meeting           

            Minutes of August 13, 2014 and joint meeting minutes of August 18, 2014. Vice-

            Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and

            Motion carried. All voted in favor.

             Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, September 9, 2014

             REQUEST FOR MOTION ON THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR THE DETENTION OF JUVENILES WTH SC DEPARTMENT OF JUVENILE JUSTICE

Mr. Watkins said that this Memorandum of Agreement outlines the relationships with the agencies involved and is just updating the existing agreement that is on file.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Before the Committee reports, Chairman Windham gave an update on Councilman McCutchen and said that he still had a feeding tube, had completed radiation and chemo but was still having trouble eating.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey recognized Debbie Tindal to introduce the new interim DSS director, Andrea James Favor. Ms. Favor said she would be working in Bishopville two days a week.

Ms. Leigh Plumber, with DHEC, was also present.

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said that his committee would be meeting after the Council meeting to discuss the newly revised Policies and Procedures Manual.

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley reminded everyone that Lee County had joined with Sumter County to form The Link and introduced Jay Schwedler to make comments.

Mr. Schwedler said the kick off for The Link was scheduled for September 30, and the new website would be unveiled at this time.

He also reported that Lee County has had several visits and said he feels good about where Lee County is right now and is excited about future opportunities.

Vice-Chairman Eckley said that the County will be dedicating the Spring Hill Fire Station probably around the end of September. We are still waiting on the fire trucks to arrive.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, September 9, 2014

 Simon Major was present and said the numbers look good. He said things are going fine, as they are two months into the new budget. They are fully staffed for the first time in 14 years.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Mike Bedenbaugh and Dwayne Huggins are in a meeting and were not able to attend.

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey said they were in fall sports with about 120 children participating. They have completed bathrooms and tables and grills have been added to the park. He also commented that the gym is open every morning for walkers.

He said the Cotton Festival is scheduled for October 10 and 11.

Councilman Addison asked how the Ashwood area was, and Mr. Dickey said that swings have been added and plans to do some more renovations to Ashwood in the spring.

Mr. Watkins said everything is in good shape on the parks and fields.

Councilman Addison said that had been some concerns from last meeting and wanted everyone to know that fencing has been installed and swing sets installed in the Woodrow park.

Mr. Dickey said the grand opening for Spoon Ya Own restaurant is set for September 8. He encouraged everyone to try it and said the food is good.

Councilman Addison referenced the water situation on King Avenue and Calhoun Streets. Chairman Windham said the highway department had opened up a blocked drain pipe, allowing better drainage.

  1. WAYS AND MEANS

Councilman Fountain said had nothing much to report because we had just started a new budget year and everything seemed to going good.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins reported that he and George Kozinski met with Adult Ed concerning the workforce initiatives.

He said he attended the Regional County Administrators meeting in Kershaw County.

 Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, September 9, 2014

He said that Santee Lynches had experienced a fire in their building and was setting up temporary offices.

He also commented that the City of Bishopville has agreed to move forward on a percentage of use basis for jail and the County will develop a contract between the city and county.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Carrie Gass – asked Jay Schwedler if he was aware of unused buildings in Lee County.

Ms. Gass said that the Concerned Citizens Meeting was being held tonight, and there were lots of concern about voter elections office. She said they have asked Chairman Windham to come and update the community on the status of this office.

Bobbi Adams – she said she was concerned about the empty buildings in the downtown and was also concerned about the election commission.

She also plugged the Cotton Festival and said that there will be a fundraiser with Red Cross in Pearl Fryar’s Garden and the funds will stay in Lee County.

 Update on Voter Registration:

Chairman Windham said the SC General Assembly passed a law that the delegation will approve a board and that board will appoint a Director and that person will appoint an Assistant. He said the County is waiting for delegation to appoint board.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:10 on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Charles A. Beasley.

 ________________________________   _________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                      VICE-CHAIRMAN

 _______________________________   ___________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                         MINUTES APPROVED

August 18, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

JOINT MEETING WITH CITY OF BISHOPVILLE

AUGUST 18, 2014, 6:00 P.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Ron Fountain, member. Ken Currie, Alexander Boyd, Willie Mae Muldrow, Mike Morrow, Craig Nesbit, Ennis Bryant. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Gregg McCutchen, Julie Atkinson, Paul Fata. Gee Atkinson, of the Observer.

 Others present were Bruce Snipes, Jeff Varn, Ann and English Cooper, Millie Scott, Wayne Hancock, Travis Windham, Marilyn Adams, Bobby Stokes, Michael Mikota, William McElveen, Wayne Davis, Jerry Law, Ruby Gibbs Williams, Jake Smith, Steve Beasley, Carl Whetsel, Calbert Johnson, Danny Simon, Bobbi Adams

OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting, and Councilman Mike Morrow to give the invocation and lead the Pledge of Allegiance.

 Chairman Windham welcomed everyone to the meeting and said this was not a public hearing. He welcomed the City Council and said he hoped to have more joint meetings in the future.

 Mr. Watkins gave an overview and said this meeting was to discuss downtown truck traffic in general and the potential for a road project, which would have two purposes: improve pedestrian safety and construct roadway for potential growth. He said this project had been pursued by representatives of the city and the county through COG since the early 2000s. Mr. Watkins said that numerous surveys had been done, and this project became a reality when the funding was appropriated by the COG ($14 million) and the fifth Congressional District Congressman John Spratt ($5 million) for a total of $19 million in funding.

 He defined the purpose and need statement and said this needed to be agreed upon by both the City and County Councils in order to move forward with the project or the money would have to be turned back in.

 Chairman Windham said this was an opportunity for the two councils to come together and asked if there were any questions.

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, August 18, 2014

 Mayor Alexander Boyd said he wanted to clarify the City’s position. He said the city’s resolution does not have a direct bearing on the bypass.   He said the reason DOT didn’t continue with this project is so many people were against it.

 Chairman Windham said there was no route at this time. He said DOT would be starting with a clean slate and said this study would have impact.

 Mr. Watkins said he had been told by the COG if the City and the County agreed to the Purpose and Need statement then we could move ahead with the EIS study that is required before the project moves forward.  

 Chairman Windham said he was hoping everyone can agree that we have a problem with truck traffic on Main Street and a further study is needed.  

 Councilman Addison wanted to clarify that this money can only be used for new construction. The COG said that the money was designated for truck bypass. If it is not used for what it’s assigned for, it would be go back through the congressional process.

 Chairman Windham said the City had asked certain people to be on a Downtown Revitalization Committee, and this committee led to the joint meeting tonight.  

 Councilman Mike Morrow said this meeting was discussed months ago before the revitalization committee was formed. He said the truck route was not the only reason for meeting. He said they wanted to know if the money had to be used for new construction of roadways.

 Mayor Alexander Boyd said,” In regards to SCDOT and the number of routes they were using, the City is not comfortable putting it in the hands of DOT, who has made mistakes, and the City of Bishopville had no input in this process, and that’s reason we adopted the resolution.” “Unless it’s someone who is not biased or not involved in the study, why would we have a study done on the east side when the east side of town is why it was turned down in the beginning?”

 Chairman Windham said that a more in-depth study is needed to have City of Bishopville involved in the decision making. He said DOT is going to tell you how it’s going to be done and where it is going, if they are doing the study.

 Alexander Boyd said DOT needed to look at east and west sides of the county. They needed to look at alternate routes, ie.. Cousar Street, Lee State Park, Lucknow Road.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, August 18, 2014

 Councilman Craig Nesbit asked what could be done about truck traffic now? He said that the bypass is not the only option.

 Councilman Addison asked to define earmark. Mr. Watkins defined it as funds being assigned to a certain project. Mr. Watkins said this money could not be used for any other projects..it had to be used for a roadway.

 Councilman Craig Nesbit asked what could impact traffic now, i.e., open Cousar Street now? And how could we make this happen?

 Mr. Watkins said the County could take SAC to court, if we wanted to run the risk of leaving our community and force them to reopen the road.

 Councilperson Willie Mae Muldrow said she was opposed to opening up Cousar Street. At the time Cousar Street was closed, she said the property owners received a letter(about a hearing to close Cousar Street), not including the people who rent. Paul Fata said according to statute, only the property owners were required to receive the letter of notice.

 Mr. Watkins also commented that the County had two public hearings on the road closure.

 Councilperson Willie Mae Muldrow said she was concerned about the routes.

 Councilman Craig Nesbit said that if the route is put on the east side, it would connect the industrial parks and referenced the number of vacant buildings in the industrial parks.

 Mayor Alexander Boyd asked if DOT was going to do a study of the west side. Mayor Boyd said “There was a study done on the west side because they removed the west side of the county.” He said that the study would be a biased one if done by DOT. He asked how we would know if the last study was not a biased one.

 Dr. Michael Mikota said that the COG has to know by November of 2014 whether this project is going forward.

 Councilman Ennis Bryant said that this meeting was an ice breaker. He said his major concern is safety. He commented that the two councils should have another meeting after the City has had time to further discuss.

 Mayor Alexander Boyd said he would poll his Council on a meeting date.

 Chairman Windham said the two councils should meet within 30 days.

 ADJOURN

 The meeting was adjourned at 7:40.

July 8, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

JULY 8, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Tim DuBose, Paul Fata.

 Others present were Sam Joyce, Henry Carter, Hannah Hickman, Carrie Gass, James Wilson.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting, and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Chairman Windham said there were amendments to the agenda. He said that Item 5 should be changed to approval of ordinance for first reading. He also said that Item 6B should be added for presentation on behalf of Mary McLeod Bethune Park by Mrs. Dixon.

 Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the agenda with said changes. Councilperson Josey seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.  

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF JUNE 12, 2014 AND CALLED MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 23, 2014 AND JUNE 30, 2014

  Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, July 8, 2014

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the minutes as mailed. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT OF MOTOR GRADER

Mr. Watkins said that the county had a motor grader that was three years told and one that was purchased in 1989. He said they were trading in the existing newer motor grader for a new one, for a trade in value of $30,500 from Champion. He said the county would lease the new one for 60 months and pay $84,000 or turn it back in or sell it and pay balance off. He said the County would have two motor graders that will be in excellent condition.

 Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve the ordinance for third and final reading and authorized Mr. Watkins to sign lease agreement. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT FOR THE DETENTION OF JUVENILES

Chairman Windham said this was changed from a resolution to an ordinance.

Mr. Watkins said this was a standard Memorandum of Agreement that we have with Department of Juvenile Justice. He said that the agreement was being updated to make it current.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for first reading approval of ordinance. Councilman Beasley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Carrie Gass – commented that her sister, Ruth Parrott, worked for the County for many years and had passed away.

Hannah Hickman – She said that the school district was having a Back to School Bash on August 8, 2014 at 6:00 p.m.

Sam Joye – thanked Council for adding their organization to the budget.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, July 8, 2014

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:00 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Beasley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

 

_______________________________________ ________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                   VICE-CHAIRMAN

 

_______________________________________ ________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                             MINUTES APPROVED

June 30, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED MEETING

JUNE 30, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; Charles A. Beasley, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as written. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT OF MOTOR GRADER

Mr. Watkins said the County was getting $30,500 as a trade-in value for Champion motor grader, which equates to about 15 payments towards the lease. He said the cost of the motor grader was $84,000 with a 60 month lease.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for second reading approval. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REVIEW OF ADMINISTRATOR EVALUATION

Chairman Windham said he had received all but two evaluation forms regarding the Administrator, which were Councilman Addison, who has been out of town with sickness of a family member and Councilman McCutchen, who has been in the hospital.

He said the reviews that have been received have all been positive, and the Ways and Means Committee voted to give the Administrator a 3% merit raise on top of the cost of living raise of 2%. All council present voted to approve the merit increase.

Chairman Windham said to wait until all evaluation forms are turned in to do a final tally on the results for the file.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. LEE COUNTY BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said the proposed budget for FY 14-15 was $12,119,443.85, which includes a 1.5 mill increase and a 2% cost of living raise for employees, with a 1% Christmas bonus.

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve the Lee County budget FY 14-15 for third and final reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

  1. LEE COUNTY SCHOOL BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said the proposed school budget FY 14-15 was $3,435,293, which included a 1.9 mill increase.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the Lee County School Budget FY 14-15 for third and final reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

  1. TAX ANTICIPATION NOTE

Mr. Watkins said the County has done TANs in the past to help with cash flow, if needed. The county has not used a TAN in the past five years. He said that the TAN would be set up if needed and the county could borrow up to $1.5 million as needed.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the TAN for third and final reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 9:45 on a motion made by Vice-Chairman, seconded by Councilman Beasley.

 ____________________________________ __________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                 VICE-CHAIRMAN

 _____________________________________   _________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                   MINUTES APPROVED

June 23, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED MEETING

JUNE 23, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COUNCIL CHAMBERS – FIRST FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; Jackie Josey, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council. Major Simon was also present.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING AND INVOCATION

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 EXECUTIVE SESSION – COUNCIL WILL ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION ON A CONTRACTUAL MATTER REGARDING THE SUMTER/LEE JAIL

 Council entered Executive Session at 9:31 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Fountain. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 Council came out of Executive Session at 10:30 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilperson Josey. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. Council had a discussion regarding a contractual matter and no votes were taken.

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, June 23, 2014

 ADJOURN

 The meeting was adjourned at 10:32 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Fountain, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley.

  _____________________________________   ________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                 VICE-CHAIRMAN

 ___________________________________     _________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                   MINUTES APPROVED

June 12, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

JUNE 12, 2014, 6:00 P.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; David Addison, Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council. Others present were Dr. Wanda Andrews, Hannah Hickman, Henry Carter, Nancy McMillan, Sam Joye, Ruby Gibbs Williams, Ray Alexander.

F OIA

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Councilman Addison gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 PUBLIC HEARING

 The public hearing was opened at 6:00 p.m. on a motion made by Councilperson Josey, seconded by Councilman McCutchen. All voted in favor.

 LEE COUNTY BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said the Ways and Means Committee met on three occasions to accept requests from department heads and outside agencies. The total requests totaled $12,119.443.85. He also said that county employees had only received a 1% cost of living raise in the last five years. He said that the committee was recommending a 2% cost of living raise with a 1% bonus at Christmas time.

            Mr. Watkins said that the total expenditures were $12,119,443.85 and the total revenue was $12,072,943.85. In order to balance the budget, the committee was recommending        

            A 1.5 mil increase. Mr. Watkins did say the county had the authority to go up 2.1mils this year.

             Chairman Windham said that the county had received a letter from ISO which said that

            Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, June 12, 2014

 Effective October 1, 2014, if you live within 5 miles of a fire department, you would be a fire class 5. He said the insurance class may also go down for those living in the county,  if you live within 5 miles of a fire department.

            Hannah Hickman wanted explanation of the school funding. Mr. Watkins told her that the school budget was next on the agenda.

             Henry Carter asked if the Council was doing second reading on the budget tonight. Mr. Watkins said yes. Mr. Carter asked if the Council was doing another public hearing between second and third readings. Chairman Windham said no.

             Mr. Billy Tention commented that the basketball goals are old in Woodrow park. He Said that the basketball goals in Harlem are state of the art. He said that he hoped it  was the county’s goal to improve the recreation park in Woodrow.

             Chairman Windham recommended that the Recreation Committee meet with Mr. Tention.

             The public hearing was closed at 6:26 p.m. on a motion made by Councilman Fountain, seconded by Councilman McCutchen. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.  

 PUBLIC HEARING – LEE COUNTY SCHOOL BUDGET FY 14-15

The public hearing opened at 6:27 p.m. on a motion made by Councilperson Josey, seconded by Councilman Beasley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Mr. Watkins said the County had received the school’s budget request of $3,477,093, which was an increase of $41,800, or the maximum amount increase of 1.9 mills.

Dr. Wanda Andrews said that most of the budget was going to personnel costs, with the addition of nurses and also class size reduction. She said the state formula is based on per pupil, and the state allocates $2,120 per student.

The public hearing closed at 6:38 p.m. on a motion made by Councilman McCutchen, seconded by Councilman Fountain. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 TAN

The public hearing was opened at 6:38 p.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Councilman Addison. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.  

Mr. Watkins said the TAN is just used in the case of an emergency in the way of cash flow and would borrow what was needed. He said that the County has not had to use a TAN for 5 years, but it will be place in the event that the need arises.

No comment from the audience.

The public hearing was closed at 6:40 p.m. on a motion made by Councilman Fountain, seconded by Councilman Beasley. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.  

Regular Meeting Agenda

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

The agenda was approved as mailed on a motion made Councilman Addison, seconded by Councilman Beasley.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF MAY 13, 2014 AND CALLED MEETING MINUTES OF JUNE 5, 2014

The minutes were approved as mailed on a motion made by Councilman Beasley, seconded by Councilman McCutchen. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. LEASE PURCHASE AGREEMENT FOR MOTOR GRADER

Mr. Watkins said the County currently has two motor graders. They are looking to lease this new motor grader for 60 months with a payment of $2,653 per month. He said at the end of the five years, the county can choose to pay $84,000 or do a trade-in. The county is receiving $30,000 for the trade in of their current motor grader. Mr. Watkins said this is a government lease purchase contract.

 Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, June 12, 2014

 REQUEST FOR MOTION OF SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. LEE COUNTY BUDGET FY 14-15

            Mr. Watkins said the Lee County Budget FY 14-15 was $12,119,443.85 and would require a 1.5 mill tax increase.

            Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve for second reading. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion

            Carried. All voted in favor.

 LEE COUNTY SCHOOL BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said the Lee County School Budget FY 14-15 was $3,477,093, which included a $41,800 increase, or 1.9 mills. Mr. Watkins also noted that this was the largest tax increase the county could authorize.

Chairman Windham said the County has always done the maximum increase for the schools.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for second reading approval Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

  1. TAX ANTICIPATION NOTE

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for second reading. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. ADOPTION OF SC CODE SECTION 59-69-215 AS THE METHOD OF DISBURSING FUNDS RECEIVED BY TREASURER AND ALLOCATED TO THE LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Mr. Watkins said that with this new procedure, the money can be transferred to the school upon request on an as needed basis.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Page 5, Lee County Council Minutes, June 12, 2014

APPOINTMENTS TO “THE LINK” BOARD FOR TWO YEAR TERMS       

Mr. Watkins said that as part of our new agreement with Sumter County, a new alliance was being formed. In this alliance, three members would be appointed from Sumter, and three from Lee County, and a 7th person would rotate between Sumter and Lee counties. The appointments are Gordon Eckley, Bruce Snipes, Thompson Isaac. There will also be an ex officio Senate member from each county, namely, Thomas McElveen and Gerald Malloy, who will serve in an advisory capacity.

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve the appointments to the Link Board. Councilperson Josey seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey said she attended Lynchburg Council meeting in reference to EMS

And an ambulance not being in Lynchburg during the day. She said that a meeting took place on May 20 with Alan Watkins, Tim DuBose, Travis Windham, Dwayne Huggins, and Ms. Josey in regards to EMS situation in Lynchburg.

She also reported that she attended training at EMS facility.

Councilperson Josey said that she attended a function at New Zion AME Church in which the Judge Albert Bradley scholarship was awarded.

Councilperson Josey also noted that classes at Central Carolina should start back in the fall.

 Dr. Wanda Andrews said that 113 students graduated. She said the school was doing summer camps and 800 students were enrolled in those camps.

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said that his committee is working with Administration in the policy and procedures manual and will be meeting on some proposed changes.

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley not here.

Mr. Watkins said that Spring Hill Fire Department is almost finished and should be operational in early July. He said he wanted to commend Brian Bradt in his efforts to get this fire station completed.

He also said that the Ashwood station is fully operational and they were able to extend the bay out. Mr. Watkins said this was done with insurance money and some penny sales tax dollars.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Councilman McCutchen said the Spring Hill Fire station is looking good.

Sheriff Danny Simon said they have had a few break-ins. He also said they were doing some training and SLED was doing some upgrades.

Mike Bedenbaugh said that the Fire Department had received a $200,000 grant to replace the air packs that the firefighters have on the truck and some of this money would be used to replace “800” radios.

Mr. Watkins said that the first of four fire trucks purchased with the penny sales tax money had come in. He said this new truck is at the Ashwood station.

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Councilman Addison said he was getting a lot of calls concerning the parks. He said he met with Mr. Watkins said he is working on them.

Thaddeus Dickey said the community center building should be delivered on June 25 and that the site work has been done. He also said that the prefab restrooms had been ordered for Ashwood Lake, Garrett Park, Lynchburg, and old high school.

Mr. Dickey said that the splash pads should be in sometime in July.

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said that the committee had worked hard on the new budget and he thanked everyone for their time.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said that he attended his monthly administrators meeting.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Hannah Hickman said this meeting was very informative.

Sheila Moses asked what data is being used to determine where EMS puts ambulances and wanted to get a list of the parks and know whether they are leased or owned.

Page 7, Lee County Council Minutes, June 12, 2014

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 7:27 p.m. on a motion made by Councilman Addison, seconded by Councilman Beasley.

 

____________________________________ __________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                             VICE-CHAIRMAN

 

___________________________________   ___________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                               MINUTES APPROVED

June 5, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED MEETING

JUNE 5, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COUNCIL CHAMBERS- FIRST FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member, Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Wayne Capell. Others present were Nancy McMillan and Dr. Wanda Andrews.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING AND INVOCATION

 Chairman Windham called the meeting to order and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as written. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 LEE COUNTY SCHOOL BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said that he and Wayne Capell met with Ms. Nancy Mc Millan yesterday to discuss the upcoming budget. He said that in the past the County has been approving the school budget based on local revenues collected by the Treasurer as well as state revenue in lieu of taxes that were credited to local tax payers, but collected and dispersed to the county by the state. He said that the County only has discretion over revenue that comes from local sources. He said that 1.9 mills was the maximum increase the County could give the schools. Mr. Watkins said the total requested

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, June 5, 2014

amount for the school for the FY 14-15 was 137.9 mills, which combined with other local revenue sources is projected to yield $3,477,093 for the school district.  

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the Lee County School Budget FY 14-15 in the amount of 137.9 mills and a total combined revenue of $3,477,093. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Councilman Beasley commended the school district for putting together the information that was presented in the school budget request.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. ADOPTION OF SC CODE SECTION 59-69-215 AS THE METHOD OF DISBURSING FUNDS RECEIVED BY TREASURER AND ALLOCATED TO THE LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Mr. Watkins said this would make the transfer of revenue to the schools more efficient. Mr. Capell said that the schools will have their own money in their own account. They would no longer have to call the Treasurer to write a check.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for second reading. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

ADJOURN

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:40 a.m. Councilperson Josey seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Dr. Wanda Andrews briefed Council on some happenings within the school, including graduation, which is scheduled for Saturday, June 7 at 10:00 a.m. She said that West Lee and the high school would be getting new principals this year. She said summer camps would be offered to students at no charge .

 ____________________________________ ___________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                              VICE-CHAIRMAN

 ____________________________________   __________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                 MINUTES APPROVED

May 13, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 13, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Danny Simon, Paul Fata, Mike Bedenbaugh, Tim DuBose, Thaddeus Dickey. Others present were James Felix, Henry Carter, Carrie Gass.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham called the meeting to order, and Councilman Addison gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All council voted in favor of motion.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF APRIL 8, 2014 AND CALLED MEETING OF MAY 7, 2014

 Chairman Windham said there was a correction in the April 8, 2014 minutes under the Public Comment section, in which Mr. Alston was introduced. The sentence should have read Democratic candidate. The error was noted by Mrs. Atkinson and put in the record.

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, May 13, 2014

 Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve the minutes with the noted correction. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 ADOPTION OF SC CODE SECTION 59-69-215 AS THE METHOD OF DISBURSING FUNDS RECEIVED BY TREASURER AND ALLOCATED TO THE LEE COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT

Mr. Watkins said that he had met with Sanya Moses in regards to how monies are exchanged between the school and county. He said that as monies come in, the Treasurer will deposit into account so they can access funds quicker. Mr. Watkins said the school district will be responsible for monies that they collect through fees. He said that this ordinance would change the way funding is done through school system.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilman McCuthen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

  1. LEE COUNTY BUDGET FY 14-15

Mr. Watkins said the revenue portion of the budget was $11,492,444.92 and the expense portion was $11,935,863.57, with a current deficit of $443,418.65. He went over mandated increases for the upcoming year. Mr. Watkins said the Ways and Means Committee would be meeting to further discuss the budget.

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve for first reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Beasley called for the vote, and motion carried.

  1. TAX ANTICIPATION NOTE

Mr. Watkins said that cash flow can sometimes be a problem with the tax money coming into the County. He said the County has not had to do a TAN in five years. Mr. Watkins said that having everything in place would expedite the process if the need for a TAN arose. He said that the amount would be up to $1.5 million.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for first reading. Councilperson Josey seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, May 13, 2014

PROCLAMATION FOR PEACE OFFICERS’ MEMORIAL DAY

Vice-Chairman Eckley read this proclamation and made the motion to approve it. Councilman Fountain seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

APPOINTMENT OF JACKIE JOSEY TO HOME CONSORTIUM BOARD OF SANTEE LYNCHES COG 

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve Jackie Josey’s appointment to the Home Consortium Board of Santee Lynches COG. Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

ACCEPTANCE OF BID ON THE CONSTRUCTION OF SPLASH PADS

Mr. Watkins said one of the projects that were funded through the Penny for Progress Campaign was three splash pads in Chappell Park, Garrett Park and Lynchburg.

Mr. Watkins said the bid was done through US Communities Contract and was in the amount of $68,850.97.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to accept the bid on the splash pads in the amount of $68,850.97. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

Mr. Watkins said the County was enhancing some of the other parks with sheds and grills.

He said that the bathrooms are in production and hopefully be delivered in June.

Councilman Addison asked if the splash pads require constant supervision. Mr. Dickey said that they will have on and off switch features and they do not have to have adult supervision.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION & WELFARE

Councilperson Josey said she met with school district and it was a very good meeting. She said she was attending Lynchburg town meeting in reference to EMS issues.

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley had nothing to report at this time.

 Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, May 13, 2014

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley said the Bryant building has been painted. He said progress is being made at Ashwood Fire Station, but the door had to be special ordered. He said that 80% of construction is completed at Spring Hill Fire Station.

***Vice-Chairman Eckley was giving report for Public Safety**

Tim DuBose said that the EMS calls were increasing. He said the County was $96,000 above this time last year. He said they were hosting their competition and would have teams from SC and NC.

Mike Bedenbaugh said they responded to 61 calls and they attended the Magnolia Festival in Lynchburg.

He shared some ISO info and said that the ratings came back with a 5/5Y and the outlying county went from 9 to 8. He said the City should be 5.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY – given above

 RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

 Thaddeus Dickey said that baseball was going well and the new building was going up. He said that Relay for Life went well.

Councilman Addison said he attended the Magnolia Festival and stated that anyone can use the splash pads, no matter where they live in the county.

Councilman Addison asked about the updates on the ditches. Chairman Windham said that it was dry right now. Mr. Watkins said the State has hired someone to control beavers. Councilman Addison said it is a problem and people expect the County to do something because they pay taxes. He said the County needs to put a plan together and deal with this. Chairman Windham said that the County was going to have to get someone from Columbia to help with this.

  1. WAYS AND MEANS

Councilman Fountain said that the Adminstrator went over budget and the Ways and Means Committee will be meeting a few more times before the third reading.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said that he attended the Economic Forecast meeting in Sumter. He also reported that he was taking George Kozinski, of the Sumter Development Board, to meet plant managers at existing industries.

Mr. Watkins also said that he would be attending a function of the Sumter Economic Development Board on Thursday night in Sumter.

He said that the county has applied for USDA grant in the amount of $50,000 to go towards the construction of a new animal shelter.

Councilman Addison asked about the drainage problems in Harlem area. He said the Black River ditch is there and would be good for drainage but water cannot get to it to drain.

Sheriff Danny Simon said that the County inducted W. A. Mozingo, James Doucett, James Mills and Matt Dillon into the SC Hall of Fame of Law Enforcement Officers.

He said that the County had one murder and made two arrests. Sheriff Simon said that Ryan Riley is doing a great job in Animal Control.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Carrie Gass said she appreciates the consideration of council in regards to drainage problem.

She announced the 5K Walk at Mary McLeod Bethune Park, which is a fundraiser done by NCNW on May 17.

Ms. Gass also announced a meeting for Concerned Citizens to be held on June 7.

James Felix thanked Administrator and Council on their help with the Magnolia Festival in Lynchburg and said that it was a great attendance.

Thaddeus Dickey said that the Chamber was up to 34 members. He said the Cotton Festival was going to be held on Oct 10 and Oct 11 and was hopefully moving back downtown. He said the grand opening of the Chamber was the third Tuesday in June.

Councilperson Josey also said there was concert at 6:00 at Lee Central. Councilman Addison also commented there was a public meeting regarding transportation at 6:00.

Henry Carter said the next time it rains, he wants the council to come and look at ditches. Chairman Windham asked Vice-Chairman Eckley to help with the drainage issue.

Councilman Addison said that Congressburn Clyburn was holding a book signing on May 18, 2014 at 4:00 p.m. in Sumter.

 

Page 6, Lee County Council Minutes, May 13, 2014

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Beasley.

 

___________________________________ ____________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                             VICE-CHAIRMAN

 

__________________________________   ____________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                            MINUTES APPROVED

 

May 7, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED COUNCIL MEETING

MAY 7, 2014, 11:00 A.M.

MAIN COUNCIL CHAMBERS – FIRST FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Clerk to Council;

FOIA

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

OPEN MEETING AND INVOCATION

Chairman Windham welcomed everyone to the meeting and called it to order. Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as presented. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

TERMINATION OF LEASE AGREEMENT WITH RICHARD C. COOKE, IN REFERENCE TO COTTONWOOD VILLA

            Mr. Watkins said he was contacted by the attorney representing Mr. Cooke in this  transaction. Mr. Cooke is going to sell facility, and the County had a lease agreement for back office area that had previously been used for EMS. The County is no longer using this area and does not foresee a need for this property in the future.

             Mr. Watkins said Mr. Cooke was ready to close on the deal, and this was the reason for  The called meeting.

             Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve to terminate the lease agreement  with Richard C. Cooke in reference to Cottonwood Villa. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded  the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in   favor.

            Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, May 7, 2014

             Councilman Beasley asked Mr. Watkins if the utility bill was being paid by the County,   and if so, we needed to make sure it was disconnected.

            Mr. Watkins said he would check on this and also said that everything belonging to the  County had been removed.

            ADJOURN

            The meeting was adjourned at 11:05 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman Beasley,  seconded by Councilman Addison.

              _______________________________________ ________________________________

            CHAIRMAN                                                                     VICE-CHAIRMAN

            ______________________________________   ________________________________

            CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                       MINUTES APPROVED

 
April 8, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

APRIL 8, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

 

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey, Tim DuBose, Mike Bedenbaugh, Paul Fata. Others present were Carrie Gass, Randy Edwards, Bobbi Adams, Walter Boone, Hannah Hickmon, Gee Atkinson, Willie Blyther, Frank Millican, James Felix, Debbie Tindal, Lucille Thomas, Brian Alston, and 15 students from Lee Central who came to observer.   Media present was Ray Alexander, of The Observer.

 

FOIA

 

Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 

OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLIEGIANCE

 

Chairman Windham opened the meeting and welcomed everyone. Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as written. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF MARCH 11, 2014 AND CALLED MEETING OF MARCH 15, 2014

 

Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the minutes as mailed. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Councilperson Josey said that she had two corrections in the minutes from March 11, 2014. She said that her name was not included as attending the meeting and Mr. James Felix’s name was incorrect.

Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried to approve with changes. All voted in favor with changes.

 

Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, April 8, 2014

 

BOBBI ADAMS WILL GIVE PRESENTATION ON AN ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITY

 

Ms. Adams was present and talked about the economic development of Starr, North Carolina and said she thought that something like this could very easily take place in Bishopville. She said that artisans of the Cotton Trail are being reinvented.

 

Chairman Windham said that the Lee County Chamber is being revitalized and said that the new partnership with Sumter County Economic Development will help foster economic opportunities.

 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE      

  1. CONTRACT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SERVICES WITH SUMTER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Mr. Watkins said that the County was working with Sumter County in the expansion of industrial development.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

  1. FORMATION OF TWO COUNTY ALLIANCE BETWEEN SUMTER AND LEE COUNTIES

Mr. Watkins said this would be a seven member board that would be known as “The Link”, of which Lee County and Sumter County would have representation.

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Councilman Beasley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

  1. LEASE AGREEMENT ON THE USE OF LEE COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said that there no changes from the previous year. He said they needed an updated contract for their records.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

 

 

 

Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, April 8, 2014

  1. TO ESTABLISH A FORMULA FOR THE FUTURE DISTRIBUTION OF FEE IN LIEU OF TAX PROCEEDS

Mr. Watkins said this would be a tool that would help promote economic development in Lee County. He said this fund would be established to fund things such as infrastructure improvements. Mr. Watkins said that with fund, the County would not have to use funds in the general operating account.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for third and final reading. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

APPROVAL TO ACCEPT BID FOR RECREATIONAL PROJECTS

Mr. Watkins said that these recreational projects for funded through the penny tax for progress project. This project is for restrooms for several parks. He said they were prefab restrooms that would be installed as one unit. The parks affected would be Ashwood, Lynchburg, Garrett Park and the old football field. He said these restrooms were designed for recreational purposes. Mr. Watkins said the bid was for $149,999 as the low bid, purchased and installed, submitted by Big Sky Communications.

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve to accept a bid from Big Sky Communications for recreational project. Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All voted in favor.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, PLANNING & WELFARE

Councilperson Josey did not have a report. She said she was pleased to see Lee County School District students and thanked them for coming.

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said that the administration staff met on policies and procedures and were making some changes to the policy manual.

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Councilman McCutchen said that the Spring Hill Fire Department is coming along well.

Mike Bedenbaugh said that they responded to 85 calls for the past month.

Tim DuBose said the call volume was up and mentioned that Relay for Life was scheduled for May 2.

 

Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, April 8, 2014

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Councilman Addison recognized the 11th graders from Lee Central.

Thaddeus Dickey said that baseball season was starting. He said they were doing a lot of additions were being added to recreation and people needed to visit facilities.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins the County was reviewing personnel policies and was looking at surrounding counties to see what they do.

Councilman Addison asked about the Administrator about the stopped up ditches in the county. Mr. Watkins said they met with Gordon and Wayne Keeys and public works did some work to the ditchesand the water level did drop significantly.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Eva Durant, who lives on King’s Avenue, said that her street had serious problems with drainage that runs along the road. She was not sure if that was state right of way.

Carrie Gass says that the drainage problems continue to be a problem, and the problem has not been solved.

Councilman Addison said he had looked at ditches and the trash needed to be taken out of the ditches.

Randy Edwards, the Governor of the 32C District of The Lions Club, was present to tell the council and audience that Lee County was the only county within their district 32C without a Lions Club. He said that they were working on starting a new Lions Club and invited Council and county employees to be a part of it. He said the purpose was to serve residents that can’t help themselves with eyesight, hearing, scholarships.

James Felix said he was inviting Council to the Magnolia Festival in Lynchburg on May 3.

Hannah Hickman thanked Chairman Windham and thanked the NAACP for coordinating this student outing.

She announced the NAACP meeting of candidates on May 29, 2014 at 6:00 p.m. at the Dennis Development Center.

Brian Alston, the Republican candidate running for District 50, was present and introduced himself to the council and audience.

 

 

 

Page 5, Lee County Council Minutes, April 8, 2014

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:40 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Addison.

 

 

_________________________________   ___________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                       VICE-CHAIRMAN

 

________________________________   _____________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                         MINUTES APPROVED

March 25, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

CALLED MEETING

MARCH 25, 2014, 10:30 A.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley,  Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member.  Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator; Paul Fata.  Others present were Frank Millican, James Davis, Jay Schwedler, George Kozinski, Rick Farmer, Eliza Buxton, Ray Alexander.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham opened the meeting and welcomed everyone.  Councilman Addison gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve the agenda as written.  Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 CONTRACT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPEMNT SERVICES WITH SUMTER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Mr. Watkins said that since Jeff Burgess left, the County has given much thought to the direction they needed to take in the area of economic development.  He said the County is entering into a two year contract with Sumter County Economic Development.  He said that Jay Schwedler and his staff will provide the day to day services and will be working for Lee County. 

Councilman Fountain made the motion to approve for second reading approval of ordinance.  Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of the motion.

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, March 25, 2014

  1. FORMATION OF TWO COUNTY ALLIANCE BETWEEN SUMTER AND LEE COUNTIES

Mr. Watkins said this would give Sumter County Development Board a broader range of resources and would allow them to market our region as a whole.  He said that Department of Commerce highly recommended this and the legislation delegation had been brought on board as well. 

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for second reading approval of ordinance.  Councilman Beasley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion.

  1. LEASE AGREEMENT ON THE USE OF LEE COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said this lease agreement was being done under the request for Mental Health to update their records.

Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the lease agreement on the use of Lee County Mental Health building.  Councilman Addison seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion.

  1. TO ESTABLISH A FORMULA FOR THE FUTURE DISTRIBUTION OF LEE IN LIEU OF TAX PROCEEDS

Mr. Watkins said that currently the county is having to pull funds from the general fund.  He said we need a stream of revenue to work on parks and to purchase options on land.  Mr. Watkins said the county would take a percentage of the Fee In Lieu proceeds and set aside for economic development purposes. 

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for second reading.  Councilman Beasley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion.

            Jay Schwedler introduced his staff to the Council and told the Council how excited he

            Was that Lee County was partnering with Sumter County.  He briefed Council on some

            Of the things that needed to be done in preparation for industry to locate in Lee County.

             Vice-Chairman Eckley said that it was a win-win situation.  Councilman Addison said

            That it was good to have them working with us.

             Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, March 25, 2014

             ADJOURN       

            The meeting was adjourned at 10:45 on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley,

            Seconded by Councilman Addison. 

                      _____________________________________  ________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                    VICE-CHAIRMAN

  ______________________________________   ________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                     MINUTES APPROVED

March 11, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

MARCH 11, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM  – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, ViceChairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member; Jackie Josey. Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey, Paul Fata, Mike Bedenbaugh.  Others present were Bobbi Adams, Carrie Gass, James Felix, Henry Carter, Mary Mack, Thompson Issac, Lucille Thomas, Elijah Dinkins, Debbie Tindal.  Media present was Ray Alexander, of The Observer.

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham welcomed everyone to the meeting.  Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion. 

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF FEBRUARY 11, 2014

 Councilman Addison made the motion to approve the minutes from regular meeting of February 11, 2014.  Councilman Beasley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion. 

 MARY MACK, OF LEE COUNTY DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS, WILL BRIEF COUNCIL ON DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

 Ms. Mack thanked Council for their support over the years and said this was their 40th year of service.  She briefed Council on the services they offer and asked Council to try and maintain their level of funding for this board. 

 Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, March 11, 2014

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

 CONTRACT FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SERVICES WITH SUMTER COUNTY DEVELOPMENT BOARD

Mr. Watkins said that the County had taken some time to review economic development in the county.  He said that the County met with Sumter County and Department of Commerce and worked out some details.  Mr. Watkins said that Jay Schwedler and his staff will be handling all of the day to day activities.  He said that the County had been a part of the SC Central Alliance and the County felt that we should do something different.  Mr. Watkins said this was a regional concept and also said that it was a two-year contract.  He said that it would cost $100,000 per year, and currently, the county was spending about $150,000, so this would be a savings to the County. 

Councilperson made the motion to approve for first reading.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of the motion. 

  1. FORMATION OF TWO COUNTY ALLIANCE BETWEEN SUMTER AND LEE COUNTIES

Mr. Watkins said three representatives from Sumter and three from Lee County would form “The Link”.  Mr. Watkins said that this alliance would have a regional website. 

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for first reading.  Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion. 

  1. LEASE AGREEMENT ON THE USE OF THE LEE COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said the County provides Mental Health with a building with a year to year lease.  They needed this updated agreement for their files. 

Councilman Beasley called for the vote, and motion carried.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.   All voted in favor of the motion. 

  1. TO ESTABLISH A FORMULA FOR THE FUTURE DISTRIBUTION OF FEE IN LIEU OF TAX PROCEEDS

Mr. Watkins said this was a component of economic development.  He said that a portion of proceeds from any expansion or new industry would be set aside in a special

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, March 11, 2014

fund for future economic development.  He said this would serve as a source of revenue and would keep the County from having to pull funds from the general fund. Mr. Watkins said the main goal was to grow the tax base.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for first reading.  Councilman Fountain seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of the motion. 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE           

  1. A.     LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LEE COUNTY, SANTEE WATEREE AND LEE COUNTY TASK FORCE COALITION FOR THE USE OF OFFICE SPACE AT CLEMSON BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said that the Lee County Task Force Coalition is a part of the penny tax projects.  He said that the funding is going through Santee RTA.  Mr. Watkins said they will occupy two offices and it will be office use and not a pick up spot.  He said this would be a five-year lease. 

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for third reading.  Councilman Addison seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of motion. 

APPROVAL TO ACCEPT THE LOW BID FOR COMMUNITY CENTER FROM MIMMS CONSTRUCTION

Mr. Watkins said that Ruby Gibbs had obtained $220,000 that she wanted to go towards a community center at Chappell Park.  The original bid with the site work was $955,383.  Mr. Watkins said the County met with them to see if they could cut $135,000 off of original bid.  Mimms Construction did cut $135,000 off of bid, still making them $100,000 short needed to complete the project.  The Planning, Taxes & Personnel Committee met to approve to use Hospitality Funds to help fund project. 

The total budget for this project was $920,000.  The architectural fees were $80,000-$100,000; $500,000 local match; $200,000 HUD, $211,000 hospitality funds. 

Mr. Watkins said that hospitality funds are dedicated to promote tourism in the community.  He said this facility would be used for tournaments, wedding receptions, family get togethers, etc. 

The minimum bid was $820,133.  The building will be just under 5,000 square feet and will be able to seat 300 people. 

Councilperson Josey made the motion to approve to accept the low bid for Community Center from Mimms Construction.  Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion. 

Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, March 11, 2014

Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of the motion. 

Chairman Windham thanked Alan and the committee for their time and efforts. 

Councilman Addison asked if the changes in this facility change any other projects, and Alan answered “no”.

REAPPPOINTMENT OF ROY ATKINSON TO SERVE ANOTHER FOUR YEAR TERM ON THE LEE COUNTY SPECIAL NEEDS AND DISABILITIES BOARD

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the reappointment of Roy Atkinson to serve another four year term on the Lee County Special Needs and Disabilities Board. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor of the motion. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey said she attended the EMS Grand Opening and said it was a nice facility and said that the medical supplies will have a longer shelf life and vehicles will be housed on the inside. 

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said that is committee did meet and voted to spend hospitality funds on the community center.  He commended Mary Mack on her presentation and thanked the employees for what they do for our citizens. 

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley said the EMS Grand Opening had a good turnout.  He also said that the Ashwood Fire Station had some damage , and the county was being reimbursed by the insurance company for $9,000.  He said that in repairing the building, it would be extended 8 feet out to accommodate the bigger trucks.  He said the penny sales tax money would be used. 

He also commented that the Spring Hill Fire Station is up, but it is still too wet to get floor poured. 

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Tim was not present.  Mike Bedenbaugh gave his report and said they had 162 calls to date.  He also said they were doing training classes.

 Page 5, Lee County Council Minutes, March 11, 2014 

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey said that the basketball team went to Myrtle Beach and Pawleys Island for championship games.  He said they had 140 kids registered for baseball.

He also commented that the Chamber is looking good.  He said that 90 people attended the Chamber banquet and they were looking at May to open new Chamber building.

Councilman Addison said that the transportation coalition is on target.  He said the busses will be housed at RTA until transportation begins in Lee County. 

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said that all departments had received their budgets and had until the end of March to turn them in.  He said we should working on the new budget in the next month. 

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins commented that many of the EMS employees did a lot of the work themselves and also Brian Bradt did much of the work, also. He said this saved the county a lot of money.

PUBLIC COMMENT

Carrie Gass referenced a water drainage problem on King and McIntosh streets.  Chairman Windham said they were probably stopped up from beavers and trash.  He said the County has talked to Wayne Keeys about the problem. 

Councilman Beasley recommended putting this in Buildings, Land & Property Committee.

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 a.m. on a motion made Councilman Beasley, seconded by Councilman McCutchen. 

 ________________________________________  _______________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                      VICE-CHAIRMAN

 _______________________________________    _______________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                         MINUTES APPROVED

February 11, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

FEBRUARY 11, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

FAMILY COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member.  Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Thaddeus Dickey,Paul Fata, John Caughman.  Others present were Ruby Gibbs Williams and Debbie Tindal. 

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 OPEN MEETING, INVOCATION AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

 Chairman Windham welcomed everyone to the meeting.  Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

 Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda as mailed.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor. 

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF JANUARY 14, 2014

 Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the minutes as written.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor. 

 JOHN CAUGHMAN, OF VOTER REGISTRATION, WILL GIVE AN UPDATE ON THE VOTER REGISTRATION AND ELECTION LAWS FOR 2014

 Mr. Caughman said this would be the first election under the voter ID law.  He said that voters would need to show a picture ID to vote.  Mr. Caughman said that Voter Registration was offering free photo IDs for the persons who did not have a picture ID.  He said there have been seminars available and they have published information in the local paper about this change in the upcoming election. 

  Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, February 11, 2014

 Councilman Addison asked John if there had been any changes to the precincts, and John responded there had been no changes. 

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LEE COUNTY, SANTEE WATEREE AND LEE COUNTY TASK FORCE COALITION FOR THE USE OF OFFICE OF SPEACE AT CLEMSON BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said that all the funding is going through Santee Wateree and said this space would be used for conducting the business of the operation.  The office space would include ADA compliant bathrooms.  He said the lease agreement would remain a lease agreement as long as they have a local coalition operation going on. 

Councilman Beasley made the motion to approve for second reading.  Councilman Addison seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor.

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON THIRD READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN LEE COUNTY AND THE LEE COUNTY TASK FORCE COALITION AND SANTEE WATEREE RTA

Mr. Watkins said this agreement was a working agreement between the entities to provide transportation in the community.

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for third reading approval of ordinance.  Councilman Addison seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor. 

  1. MULTI-COUNTY PARK AGREEMENT WITH DARLINGTON COUNTY

Mr. Watkins said this agreement was no cost to the county.  He said that the County would receive tax revenue that was generated in Darlington County in reference to the Multi-County Park Agreement. 

Councilman  Fountain made the motion to approve for third and final reading.  Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All voted in favor. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS 

  1. HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Jackie Josey was not present at this meeting. 

Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, February 11, 2014

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley had nothing to report to at this time.

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley reported that the EMS operations have moved into their new facility.  He said the grand opening would be in early March.

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Councilman McCutchen commented about the importance of our public safety officials in light of today’s weather conditions. 

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey reported that basketball season is wrapping up and softball registration has started.  Vice-Chairman Eckley said the county received four bids and Mimms Construction was awarded the bid for the community center.

Councilman Addison said that RTA will be responsible for the maintenance of the busses, and the busses will be housed here.

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said the County would begin to work on the new budget very soon.

Chairman Windham said he attended the MLK Breakfast, and it was very well attended. 

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said that the County is anticipating potential weather problems and will be meeting with Mike this afternoon regarding closing of county operations.

He complimented Mike and his staff for their efforts in the winter storm. He said that he received many compliments on how well we did during the storm. 

He also reported that he would be attending the County and City Managers meeting next month. 

Mr. Watkins also commented on a joint meeting with the City as a request made by Dr. Mikota.  Mr. Watkins said that he was working on a date and agenda to be scheduled in the next couple of weeks.

 Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, February 11, 2014

PUBLIC COMMENT

Thaddeus Dickey said the Chamber building is coming along great and is ready for carpet. 

He also said the Chamber Banquet tickets were for sale and were $10 each. 

Mr. Dickey also said that he hoped the Cotton Festival would be moved back downtown this year.  He said the Chamber was petitioning the City Zoning to move the Festival back to the downtown and was moving back to original date of October. 

Ruby Gibbs Williams thanked Council for all they are doing.  She mentioned that on February 20, there would be a symposium to work with Farmers to get farming in schools, and they would be working with gardening clubs.  She said that this would be held at Coclough Building from 9-12 a.m. 

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 9:55 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Beasley.

 ____________________________________    __________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                VICE-CHAIRMAN

 ____________________________________  ___________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                              MINUTES APPROVED

January 14, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL

REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING

JANUARY 14, 2014, 9:30 A.M.

MAIN COURT ROOM – SECOND FLOOR OF THE COURTHOUSE

Members present were Travis Windham, Chairman; Gordon Eckley, Vice-Chairman; David Addison, member; Charles A. Beasley, member; Jackie Josey, member; Sam McCutchen, member; Ron Fountain, member.  Staff present were Alan Watkins, Administrator; Julie Atkinson, Assistant Administrator/Clerk to Council; Connie Brown, Wayne Capell, Thaddeus Dickey, Tim DuBose, Mike Bedenbaugh, Paul Fata.  Others present were Tony Boykin, Willie Blyther, Henry Carter, Bobbi Adams, Carrie Gass, Mary Mack, Ruby Gibbs Williams, representative from Senator Tim Scott’s office.  Ray Alexander, of The Observer was present. 

 FOIA

 Pursuant to the Freedom of Information Act, all individuals requesting notifications were so notified.

 PUBLIC HEARING

  1. ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE AGREEMENT FOR DEVELOPMENT OF JOINT INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS PARK DATED APRIL 14, 1998 BY AND BETWEEN DARLINGTON AND LEE COUNTIES SO AS TO ENLARGE THE PARK (PROJECT ROCKFORD).

The Public Hearing was opened at 9:30 a.m. on a motion made by Charles A. Beasley, seconded by Vice-Chairman Eckley. 

Mr. Watkins said that the County did not have the actual details on the development but did say this was a common tool for economic development.  He said Lee County gets 1% of potential tax revenue, and the county is enabling the project to get more tax breaks.  However, in order to make this happen, a multi-county park agreement is required.  Mr. Watkins said that it doesn’t have to be in an industrial park, but the partnering county can designate any piece of land they choose.  He said this was basically a mechanism that the State put in place to help smaller counties. 

There were no comments from the audience. 

The public hearing was closed at 9:36 a.m. on a motion made by Councilman McCutchen, seconded by Councilperson Josey.

Page 2, Lee County Council Minutes, January 14, 2014

LEE COUNTY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

OPEN MEETING, INVOCATON AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

Chairman Windham welcomed everyone to the meeting and Vice-Chairman Eckley gave the invocation and led the Pledge of Allegiance. 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON ADOPTION OF RECOMMENDED AGENDA

Charles A. Beasley made the motion to approve the agenda.  Councilman McCutchen seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.

REQUEST FOR MOTION OF MINUTES FROM REGULAR MEETING OF DECEMBER 10, 2013 AND CALLED MEETING MINUTES OF DECEMBER 19, 2013

            Councilperson Josey said she had a correction in the minutes.  She said she had

Contacted someone in reference to a deep ditch in Lynchburg that was the state right of way and wanted to reiterate that she was the contact person in this matter. 

 Councilman McCutchen made the motion to approve the minutes with said changes. Vice-Chairman Eckley seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried. All council voted in favor.

 TONY BOYKIN, OF SHEHEEN, HANCOCK AND GODWIN, WILL PRESENT THE AUDIT FY 2013

 Mr. Boykin presented the Audit FY 2013 for Lee County and said that they received an unqualified opinion, which was the best that you could receive.  He said the audit was presented fairly and they were able to give a clean opinion.  Mr. Boykin congratulated the County on the audit and said they had done a great job in managing funds.  He also said that our bond rating was strong. 

 Vice-Chairman Eckley commented that Council and Administration had been through some tough times.  Chairman Windham said that the Finance Department also does a great job.

 REQUEST FOR MOTION ON FIRST READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. A.     LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN LEE COUNTY, SANTEE WATEREE AND LEE COUNTY TASK FORCE COALITION FOR THE USE OF OFFICE SPACE AT CLEMSON BUILDING

Mr. Watkins said they will be starting local routes in Lee County and reminded everyone that this was part of the penny sales tax.  He said the County has identified a couple of offices in the Clemson Extension office for the Lee County Task Force Coalition.  He also said that some renovations were needed to accommodate them.

 Page 3, Lee County Council Minutes, January 14, 2014

Mr. Watkins said they planned to take the local penny sales tax money to match federal money.  He said this lease agreement would remain in effect for as long as there is a coalition for transportation. 

REQUEST FOR MOTION ON SECOND READING APPROVAL OF ORDINANCE

  1. MEMORANDUM OF AGREEMENT BETWEEN LEE COUNTY AND THE LEE COUNTY TASK FORCE COALITION AND SANTEE WATEREE RTA

In the last meeting, there were some concerns from Councilman Fountain and Councilman McCutchen that the routes would not be available in their districts.  They have agreed to support the project because the Transportation Coalition has to concentrate on major populated areas but hope to expand in those areas within 12-18 months and work into the less populated areas. 

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for second reading.  Councilman Addison seconded the motion. Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All council voted in favor. 

  1. MULTI-COUNTY PARK AGREEMENT WITH DARLINGTON COUNTY

Chairman Windham said that they had just had the public hearing on this matter and would have additional information before the third and final reading. 

Vice-Chairman Eckley made the motion to approve for second reading.  Councilperson Josey seconded the motion.  Chairman Windham called for the vote, and motion carried.  All council voted in favor.

COMMITTEE REPORTS
           

  1. A.     HEALTH, EDUCATION AND WELFARE

Councilperson Josey said there would a MLK Breakfast on Monday, January 20 and NCNW was holding a celebration on Sunday afternoon, January 19. 

  1. PLANNING, TAXES & PERSONNEL

Councilman Beasley said that the county should continue monitoring workers comp insurance claims to help the county with its rating. 

  1. BUILDINGS, LAND & PROPERTY

Vice-Chairman Eckley said the completion of the EMS building is near.  He said that EMS hopes to move in end of January. A walk through has been scheduled for today.

Update on the Spring Hill Fire Department – the structure is up and is progressing.

Page 4, Lee County Council Minutes, January 14, 2014

  1. PUBLIC SAFETY

Mike Bedenbaugh said that Fire responded to 80 calls for the month of December.  They are doing Hazmat training now and getting ready for hurricane drill.

Tim DuBose said the call volume for EMS is up with the flu season.  He said they responded to 360 calls for December and also reported they were $64,000 above what they were this time last year in revenue. 

Councilperson Josey asked if they had seen any cases of whooping cough.  Tim said that he was not aware of any cases in Lee County.

Councilman Beasley commended Tim and his staff for their hard work on the new building.  He said that some of the employees and Tim have been working on the building in their spare time and also said that Brian had done a lot of the work. 

Chairman Windham asked Mike about the ISO rating in the county.  Mike said that the rating came out in October was 9/6 and 9/5.  He said that ISO was looking to bring it to 8/5. 

  1. RECREATION AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Thaddeus Dickey reported that basketball is going on and they were partnering with Lake City.  He said the new community center had been put out for bid.

Councilman Addison said that parks and grass cutting looked good.  He also mentioned that he wanted to stay on schedule with the transportation project.

Councilman Addison also mentioned the upgrade on the flood plain over the past year.  He encouraged anyone that was planning to build to be sure they were up to date on this new information. 

Chairman Windham said that City of Bishopville paid an engineer to review Harlem area, and at that time, some areas were listed in the flood plain.  However, some areas have been moved out of flood plain. 

  1. WAYS & MEANS

Councilman Fountain said that the departments continue to stay within their budget.

  1. ADMINISTRATOR’S REPORT

Mr. Watkins said that he was attending an Administrators Meeting in Manning with the area administrators. 

He also thanked EMS employees for their hard work in painting and replacing ceiling tiles.  He said that EMS building would also house fire components and would serve as a volunteer station for the Wysacky area. 

Page 5, Lee County Council Minutes, January 14, 2014

Mr. Watkins said that he received a letter from Gregg McCutchen in regards to a joint meeting with the two councils regarding the truck bypass.  He said that Dr. Mikota would also be present and this meeting would probably take place at the end of the month.

Mr. Watkins said that the County was also approached by the Chamber in reference to office space at the old library.  He said that plans are being made to make office space for the Chamber of Commerce, and this building would serve as a Visitor’s Center and also serve the Library of Archives.

Thaddeus Dickey introduced the new Executive Director of the Chamber, Gena Williams, to the Council and audience.

Councilman Addison thanked Thaddeus for his work through recreation and the Chamber of Commerce.

Chairman Windham recognized A. B. Jordan, the representative for Senator Tim Scott’s office.  Mr. Jordan thanked Council for the opportunity of being present and said that he has an appreciation for what they do. 

PUBLIC COMMENT  

Bobbi Austin said they had difficulty in hearing in the court room.

Ruby Gibbs Williams wanted to invite everyone to the Garden Symposium with the Health Initiatives on Thursday from 9-11 a.m.  She said that Fairfield, Lee and Bamberg counties have higher rates of obesity.  She said they are working in the second cycle of the grant. 

Carrie Gass invited everyone to the Concerned Citizens meeting to be held on February 3, 2014 at 7:00 p.m.  She said Betty Scott will be there to update everyone on transportation. 

Ms. Gass also mentioned that the importance of picture IDs this year for the upcoming election.

Councilperson Josey recognized James Issac  in the audience and expressed condolences in the passing of his wife. 

ADJOURN

The meeting was adjourned at 10:50 a.m. on a motion made by Vice-Chairman Eckley, seconded by Councilman Fountain. 

 ___________________________________________   _____________________________________

CHAIRMAN                                                                              VICE-CHAIRMAN

 ___________________________________________  ______________________________________

CLERK TO COUNCIL                                                                MINUTES APPROVED

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