How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance authorizes the execution and delivery of a Special Source Revenue Credit (SSRC) agreement between Kershaw County and an entity identified as Project Gemstone. These credits are a form of economic development incentive designed to encourage business investment and job creation within the county. The measure arrived before Council to facilitate the proposed industrial expansion, and it was approved on first reading by a 5-0 vote. Because the specific details regarding the company, total investment amounts, and anticipated job creation are part of an ongoing negotiation, the measure was vetted during an executive session. These agreements are standard tools used by the county to remain competitive in recruiting new industry. Further readings and a potential public hearing will be required in future meetings before the agreement can be finalized. Council members continue to emphasize the importance of economic development while ensuring such projects align with long-term infrastructure planning and local capacity.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance amends the existing joint industrial and business park agreement between Kershaw County and Fairfield County. The amendment increases the park's boundaries to incorporate real property associated with the economic development project known as Project Gemstone. By including this land in the joint park, the county can provide specific tax structures and incentives necessary to attract this development. The vote to move the ordinance forward on first reading was 5-0. This partnership with Fairfield County is a recurring administrative mechanism used to manage regional industrial assets effectively. The project remains in the early stages of the legislative process, and further discussion regarding the exact acreage and location will likely occur as the ordinance moves toward a third and final reading. The primary goal is to ensure that the site is fully prepared to support the industry's requirements while maintaining the county's ability to provide necessary services and tax revenue.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance approves the lease of county-owned property located at 632 W. Dekalb Street in Camden to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). The measure formalizes the obligations and responsibilities between the county and the state agency for the use of the office space. This is part of a broader administrative effort to organize usage of county facilities at this specific address. The ordinance passed on first reading with a 5-0 vote. No public controversy or significant discussion occurred, as the item is considered routine administrative housekeeping. The lease ensures that the state agency maintains a local presence, which is beneficial for managing natural resources within Kershaw County. Subsequent readings will follow in future council meetings to finalize the contract terms and officially codify the ongoing relationship between the county and the department.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance authorizes a lease for the South Carolina Forestry Commission at the county-owned facility located at 632 W. Dekalb Street in Camden. Similar to the SCDNR lease approved at the same meeting, this measure sets out the legal framework for the Commission's use of office space and defines the operational responsibilities of both the county and the state agency. The council approved the first reading by a vote of 5-0. This is a routine administrative item intended to organize tenants within the government-owned building. By facilitating this lease, the county ensures that state forestry services remain readily available to local landowners and stakeholders. The item is expected to pass through remaining readings without significant changes, as it represents a continued partnership between the state commission and the local government. No public opposition was noted regarding this lease arrangement.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance authorizes the issuance of general obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $2 million to fund improvements to the county's wastewater infrastructure. The project is specifically targeted at addressing sewer line issues and odor complaints in the Lugoff and Elgin areas. County Administrator Danny Templar noted that this is the first phase of a larger, long-term rehabilitation effort expected to cost approximately $12 million over six years. Importantly, the issuance utilizes existing debt capacity and does not require a tax or fee increase for citizens. The ordinance passed its second reading with a 5-0 vote. This infrastructure investment is a priority for the county as it seeks to maintain and modernize services for growing residential and commercial sectors. The council expects the project to significantly improve service reliability in the affected areas. A third reading and a public hearing are scheduled for June 23, 2026.

Who said what

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance amends Chapter 6 of the Kershaw County Code of Ordinances to reform the Building Codes Board of Adjustments and Appeals. The primary purpose of the change is to align the county's board composition requirements with those of the International Building Code (IBC). Currently, the county's rules mandate highly specific and exacting professional qualifications for board members, which has made it difficult to maintain a full board. By reverting to the standard IBC requirements, the county intends to broaden the pool of eligible members and simplify the administrative appeal process. The ordinance also incorporates uniform terminology amendments across Articles VIII and IX. The council approved the second reading with a 5-0 vote, viewing the move as necessary to reduce bureaucracy and ensure the board functions effectively. No significant controversy was reported regarding these administrative changes.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

This ordinance completes the legislative process for a lease agreement between Kershaw County and the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service. The lease pertains to the county-owned building located at 632 W. Dekalb Street, which houses the extension service's branch office. The council approved the third reading by a 5-0 vote, officially solidifying the operational responsibilities and obligations shared by the county and the university. This lease is part of the county's ongoing effort to organize and formalize relationships with the various state and local agencies operating out of the DeKalb Street facility. The extension service provides essential agricultural and community outreach programs to residents, and this lease ensures they have a stable and permanent location to conduct their business. No public concerns were raised, and the council viewed the finalized agreement as a standard, beneficial arrangement for the community.

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

The council passed a resolution adopting the Santee-Lynches Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan for 2026-2030. Developed by the Santee-Lynches Council of Governments (COG) in partnership with FEMA and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, the plan outlines strategies for disaster preparedness, including flood mitigation, vegetation management, and evacuation planning. Adopting the plan is a mandatory step for the county to remain eligible for future FEMA disaster relief and mitigation grant funding. Jeff Parkey from the COG emphasized that the plan builds upon previous efforts to protect critical infrastructure, including school facilities often used as shelters. The adoption reflects the county's commitment to proactive emergency management and collaboration with regional partners to save taxpayer dollars by mitigating disaster damage before it occurs. The resolution passed with a 5-0 vote and was welcomed as a vital step in maintaining emergency readiness.

Who said what

How they voted - unanimous

What this was about

Council approved a slate of reappointments to two local boards to ensure continued service. Virginia Long was reappointed to the Kershaw County Clean Community Commission (District 2). Additionally, Ed Garrison (At-Large), Christine Christle (District 2), and Bob Giangiorgi (District 6) were reappointed to the Library Board. All terms for these reappointments expire on June 30, 2026. The council expressed gratitude for the dedication and volunteer efforts of those serving on these boards, noting that their work is vital for local quality of life. The reappointments were approved unanimously by a 5-0 vote. Other pending appointments for the Clean Commission (Districts 3 and 6) were deferred to the June 23, 2026 meeting to allow for further administrative review and coordination.