1
00:00:02,240 --> 00:00:08,880
Good evening everyone.
>> Let us bow our heads please.

2
00:00:07,120 --> 00:00:11,679
Most holy and everlasting God our
father, we thank you for your many

3
00:00:10,400 --> 00:00:16,400
blessings that you have bestowed upon
us. Thank you for all that you have done

4
00:00:14,080 --> 00:00:21,840
for us this day. And we ask you to
continue to bless our city. Bless us.

5
00:00:18,800 --> 00:00:23,920
Keep us strong, focused. In your name we
pray. Amen.

6
00:00:23,359 --> 00:00:27,119
» Amen.
>> Amen.

7
00:00:25,359 --> 00:00:31,920
We we're so happy to see everybody that
join us on tonight and we're happy to

8
00:00:29,359 --> 00:00:37,840
see those that join us virtually.
Welcome to city council.

9
00:00:35,360 --> 00:00:43,360
Our first item is consideration of
August 18, 2026

10
00:00:40,719 --> 00:00:46,640
city council minutes.
>> Men council, I move for the adoption of

11
00:00:45,440 --> 00:00:49,600
the minutes.
>> Motion has been made by Councilman Kit.

12
00:00:49,120 --> 00:00:52,640
» Second.
>> Second by Councilman KN. All in favor?

13
00:00:52,000 --> 00:00:57,360
» I.
>> Any oppose? Eyes have it. The motion is

14
00:00:55,199 --> 00:01:03,120
carried.
Our next item is recognition of

15
00:00:59,760 --> 00:01:10,960
September community of character trait
and the trait is reliance. Reliance is

16
00:01:06,320 --> 00:01:17,040
the ability to adopt well and bounce
back after facing stress, hardship, and

17
00:01:14,000 --> 00:01:23,799
trauma. We're going to ask everybody to
please uh adopt this community character

18
00:01:20,799 --> 00:01:23,799
trait.

19
00:01:24,479 --> 00:01:36,640
» Resilience, I'm sorry. Resilience.
We have an appearance tonight by Mr. and

20
00:01:30,720 --> 00:01:40,720
Mrs. Randy Connor and Miss Shauna Curry,
the Cinema Special Events Order. And

21
00:01:39,280 --> 00:01:46,320
we're going to ask you if you would come
to the podium, state your name and your

22
00:01:43,360 --> 00:01:46,320
address, please.

23
00:01:55,759 --> 00:02:02,960
Hello. My name is Chen Curry.
>> And don't forget we have five minutes.

24
00:02:00,640 --> 00:02:05,360
Five minutes, you know, to speak.
>> Okay.

25
00:02:03,360 --> 00:02:06,399
» Yes. Yes, ma'am. Come on. How y'all
doing?

26
00:02:05,759 --> 00:02:07,840
» Great. How are you?
>> Good. Good.

27
00:02:06,960 --> 00:02:12,400
» All right.
>> And my name is Randy Connor.

28
00:02:09,599 --> 00:02:21,440
» Uhhuh.
>> Georgia Connor. Yeah. Okay.

29
00:02:17,280 --> 00:02:26,080
» Okay. So, we actually um is here on
behalf of the cinema like you mentioned

30
00:02:23,599 --> 00:02:34,560
um in regards to the audience that has
now changed to 12:00 p.m. Um and we were

31
00:02:31,680 --> 00:02:41,519
wondering um if it could be back the
time it was, which was 2:00

32
00:02:37,599 --> 00:02:48,319
um a.m. Well, everybody out by 2:00 a.m.
Um we actually have a venue hall um and

33
00:02:45,360 --> 00:02:53,200
a lot of people that do have weddings,
parties, we sponsor a lot with the

34
00:02:50,400 --> 00:02:57,920
colleges both state and claflin. Um and
that time is just not allowing for as

35
00:02:55,440 --> 00:03:02,480
far as business-wise
um with us um actually being beneficial

36
00:03:01,360 --> 00:03:06,480
from the business.
>> Okay. Now you're speaking on behalf of

37
00:03:05,280 --> 00:03:07,599
the cinema.
>> Yes.

38
00:03:06,800 --> 00:03:10,959
» Also okay.
>> Yes. These are my parents.

39
00:03:08,879 --> 00:03:13,280
» Okay. Okay.
Yes, sir.

40
00:03:12,000 --> 00:03:15,920
» Well, first of all, I want to commend
you all for all your hard work.

41
00:03:15,040 --> 00:03:20,319
» Yeah. Thank you.
>> But I wanted to talk to you all

42
00:03:17,280 --> 00:03:24,800
concerning the coordinates because not
does it only

43
00:03:22,560 --> 00:03:28,879
affect our business, we have eight other
families that we pay that is on our

44
00:03:27,040 --> 00:03:35,920
payroll that it's affecting when we
can't uh run to 2:00 in the morning

45
00:03:33,599 --> 00:03:40,239
because a lot of the college students
that uh come here, they're here only for

46
00:03:38,720 --> 00:03:47,200
a short while.
our record. We've been here uh running

47
00:03:44,000 --> 00:03:53,280
this cinema now for about four years.
>> You all can say there has not been any

48
00:03:49,599 --> 00:03:59,920
incident at our establishment.
Um our track record speak for itself

49
00:03:56,879 --> 00:04:04,080
and I didn't understand
by us and our record and if uh Chief

50
00:04:02,319 --> 00:04:09,280
Austin is here was here I don't know if
he's here or not.

51
00:04:06,560 --> 00:04:14,799
Uh we are always transparent with him
when we have big events. We call him up.

52
00:04:12,560 --> 00:04:19,440
We talk to him. We are proactive about
everything that we can so we can protect

53
00:04:17,040 --> 00:04:23,600
these young ones that their parents had
sent here to be in our town in

54
00:04:21,040 --> 00:04:27,759
Orangeburg. So we do everything that we
can for security talking to Chief

55
00:04:25,919 --> 00:04:32,479
Austin.
We make sure the these young ones are

56
00:04:30,639 --> 00:04:38,880
well looked after. We make sure security
is there. If they c if they can't

57
00:04:35,440 --> 00:04:43,440
provide it, my wife provides it because
we want to make sure when they come here

58
00:04:41,120 --> 00:04:49,199
or come to our establishment, they go
home safely. Now, we're not God. We

59
00:04:45,919 --> 00:04:53,840
can't prevent unforeseen occurrences.
And I'll use for instant and it's not

60
00:04:51,360 --> 00:04:57,919
the time state had it incident. It
wasn't 2 o'clock in the morning. It was

61
00:04:55,919 --> 00:05:02,000
during the day.
I mean, Patel had his incident. It

62
00:05:00,400 --> 00:05:05,520
wasn't 2 o'clock in the morning. So time
is not because what happened at 2

63
00:05:04,000 --> 00:05:11,120
o'clock in the morning can't happen 2
o'clock in the day. All we can do as

64
00:05:08,000 --> 00:05:16,320
individuals is try to protect those who
are at our establishment and we do the

65
00:05:13,440 --> 00:05:22,560
best we can with the assistance of the
uh city police and chief Austin. Thank

66
00:05:19,440 --> 00:05:29,520
you for helping us with all you do. Um
so we do everything that we can. I don't

67
00:05:24,960 --> 00:05:33,919
understand where or it came or why we
have been uh drafted into this because

68
00:05:32,000 --> 00:05:41,600
at first we were told when we went down
that we were with uh the same as the uh

69
00:05:37,680 --> 00:05:45,680
the social clubs and things like that.
They're back open to 2 in the morning

70
00:05:43,759 --> 00:05:49,280
but then they said no cinema you fall
under a different they put us in the

71
00:05:47,280 --> 00:05:54,160
park and recreation.
I don't know if it's one thing I learned

72
00:05:51,759 --> 00:05:58,560
about rules and laws.
It's [clears throat] because somebody

73
00:05:55,199 --> 00:06:04,000
came up with their opinion.
They spoke to the right person and they

74
00:06:01,520 --> 00:06:08,639
talked to enough people. They made it a
rule or a law and they don't think about

75
00:06:06,479 --> 00:06:13,199
who it affects.
Our establishment as is a place that is

76
00:06:11,680 --> 00:06:17,919
doesn't bother the neighbors. Y'all
don't have complaints from neighbors

77
00:06:15,919 --> 00:06:25,199
calling. All the crowd is this or this
and that. uh because we know what the

78
00:06:21,120 --> 00:06:32,400
requirements is. Young ones come here a
lot of them help pay for their colleges

79
00:06:28,639 --> 00:06:36,000
by having these event
literally I've talked with them you know

80
00:06:34,160 --> 00:06:41,759
Mr. Conor, when I have this event, this
helped me pay for my books.

81
00:06:38,800 --> 00:06:45,199
» Or it also, we can look at it this way,
it trains them

82
00:06:43,280 --> 00:06:49,120
» because a lot of them move off to become
big promoters in other states. When they

83
00:06:47,280 --> 00:06:54,720
start on a small environment like they
are with us,

84
00:06:52,000 --> 00:06:59,199
» we're training them. So when we tell
them that, oh, or our city is trying to

85
00:06:57,600 --> 00:07:05,680
tell them and oh, you can't do it. you
got to um because of a small criteria

86
00:07:03,120 --> 00:07:08,880
that have been set into place that
doesn't make sense to me.

87
00:07:07,120 --> 00:07:12,240
» Like I said, I'm not a college ready
graduate, but I have common sense. Make

88
00:07:10,720 --> 00:07:18,479
it make sense to me.
>> Make it tell me why is it set at two?

89
00:07:15,039 --> 00:07:23,199
Crime don't stop at 11:59. Chief Austin,
I tell you that. But we can prevent what

90
00:07:21,440 --> 00:07:28,080
happened out of our establishment when
they're there. Now, what people do after

91
00:07:24,639 --> 00:07:32,000
they leave our establish, not on us.
We can only do the best we can to make

92
00:07:30,080 --> 00:07:35,520
sure while they're there that we take
care of them.

93
00:07:33,360 --> 00:07:39,680
» And uh
>> look at our track record. It speaks for

94
00:07:37,680 --> 00:07:42,240
itself. We've been there four years. I
mean, you know, unless you all want

95
00:07:40,800 --> 00:07:46,560
another empty building because we got to
make the payments on that building. you

96
00:07:43,919 --> 00:07:52,240
all. My wife had to give people back
individuals their money back uh this

97
00:07:49,360 --> 00:07:55,720
last month because that crowd don't come
in till 11:30

98
00:07:56,639 --> 00:08:03,199
» and that's affecting how I provide for
my family, my wife and I. Like I said,

99
00:08:01,599 --> 00:08:08,560
we have other eight other people on our
payroll. But all I'm saying is please

100
00:08:06,000 --> 00:08:12,960
reconsider it because it is not only
affecting our livelihood is affecting

101
00:08:10,879 --> 00:08:16,160
we're in a college town. We have to make
and I'm sorry you all I thought I turned

102
00:08:14,720 --> 00:08:20,080
this on.
>> Mr. Connor, let me say this to you

103
00:08:17,840 --> 00:08:24,639
before uh your time ran out.
>> Yes. [snorts]

104
00:08:20,560 --> 00:08:30,240
» Um changing the the rules of of of that
time it it it requires a lot of

105
00:08:27,440 --> 00:08:34,479
dynamics, but we will take what you're
saying on advisement and we'll bring all

106
00:08:32,320 --> 00:08:37,360
the appropriate people into into the
table and and discuss it.

107
00:08:36,800 --> 00:08:40,719
» Okay.
>> Yes, sir.

108
00:08:39,039 --> 00:08:45,240
» Okay. Are there any [clears throat] It
may be some questions from the council

109
00:08:42,240 --> 00:08:45,240
members.

110
00:08:46,720 --> 00:08:53,760
» Uh thank you, mayor. You mentioned
something about two different

111
00:08:51,040 --> 00:08:57,040
classification, a social club. I didn't
hear you right.

112
00:08:54,480 --> 00:09:02,560
» Yeah. At first, we were considered under
the classification with the social club.

113
00:09:00,640 --> 00:09:07,839
Matter of fact, I think Chief Austin, if
you correct me, at first they were

114
00:09:04,399 --> 00:09:13,760
shutting everybody down at 11:59.
But then by them being under the state

115
00:09:10,640 --> 00:09:18,320
regulation, then they can't be shut down
because their criteria is different. But

116
00:09:16,320 --> 00:09:24,160
we were cons we were considered to be
under them. But after they were able to

117
00:09:21,040 --> 00:09:28,880
go back to two, they moved us over into
the park and recreation under park and

118
00:09:26,959 --> 00:09:33,600
recreation, which I don't understand.
And that's another thing. 45 days for

119
00:09:31,120 --> 00:09:40,320
these young ones that is only here for a
short time to get a uh

120
00:09:36,800 --> 00:09:43,839
» permit, a temporary business license. I
go down to the highway department and

121
00:09:42,399 --> 00:09:49,519
get my driver's life. I got the right
criter criteria. I get it that day. If I

122
00:09:47,680 --> 00:09:53,600
want to buy a house, it don't take me 45
days. If I got everything in line, I

123
00:09:51,680 --> 00:09:58,080
meet the I meet the criteria. So if they
meet the criteria, why is it 45? the

124
00:09:56,480 --> 00:10:00,800
other lawyers, you just rather tell them
I don't want you to have your event been

125
00:09:59,279 --> 00:10:03,120
here in Orangeburg. That's what I'm
gathering from it.

126
00:10:01,680 --> 00:10:06,120
» Second part, please.
>> Yes.

127
00:10:08,399 --> 00:10:13,760
» It's just hard for me to understand.
It's two different socialist.

128
00:10:12,160 --> 00:10:15,360
» Well, listen to me. Listen, listen to
the question, please.

129
00:10:14,480 --> 00:10:20,640
» Yes.
>> Are there other businesses that are open

130
00:10:18,800 --> 00:10:26,560
after
the hour of what you speaking of?

131
00:10:24,000 --> 00:10:29,600
» Everybody Everybody's gone at that time.
cuz you're saying there's some social

132
00:10:27,760 --> 00:10:34,079
clubs somewhere open.
>> Social social bars, I guess, like clubs.

133
00:10:33,600 --> 00:10:37,680
» Yes.
>> Oh, priv. Now I got you. Private clubs.

134
00:10:37,120 --> 00:10:42,480
» Yes.
>> Okay. Okay. Thank you, sir.

135
00:10:40,880 --> 00:10:45,200
» But if they're renting from us, would it
be considered that they're probably

136
00:10:44,399 --> 00:10:49,040
having an event?
>> Right. Why can't it be private?

137
00:10:46,880 --> 00:10:53,279
» Well, we we we need to take that under
advisement with the whole entire council

138
00:10:51,279 --> 00:10:56,800
and everybody. We can't answer you now,
but we will take it on advisement and

139
00:10:55,200 --> 00:10:58,640
get back with you.
>> Yes, sir.

140
00:10:57,519 --> 00:11:01,760
» Okay.
>> And Dr. Clue has a question for you.

141
00:11:00,560 --> 00:11:07,600
» Yes, sir.
>> When did you receive the notice?

142
00:11:04,640 --> 00:11:13,519
» This been this has been in
>> they said two years now.

143
00:11:08,720 --> 00:11:18,320
» Two years. But uh we have been uh
>> operating because uh we have someone who

144
00:11:16,160 --> 00:11:22,480
was understanding we're allowing us to
go a little longer but we went and got

145
00:11:20,079 --> 00:11:29,040
permission. We just didn't do it. We
went and got permission and they allowed

146
00:11:24,959 --> 00:11:33,360
us to run past the 12.
>> Before then, how many incidents have

147
00:11:31,040 --> 00:11:36,560
you, you know, has occurred in your
facility? How many?

148
00:11:35,200 --> 00:11:38,320
» No incidents.
>> None.

149
00:11:37,200 --> 00:11:43,920
» None.
>> And there's no police report.

150
00:11:40,959 --> 00:11:47,839
» Not that other than uh Chief might have
had to come out there one time. Somebody

151
00:11:45,360 --> 00:11:52,079
was breaking in cars, but
>> not in our establishment. Not for

152
00:11:50,240 --> 00:11:54,880
violence. None.
>> Okay. Thank you.

153
00:11:54,000 --> 00:11:56,959
» Thank you, sir.
>> All right.

154
00:11:55,360 --> 00:11:58,000
» And we'll get back with you, sir.
>> All right.

155
00:11:57,440 --> 00:12:01,680
» Yes, sir.
>> Yes, sir.

156
00:11:58,720 --> 00:12:05,680
» Thank you.
>> We have another appearance from Miss

157
00:12:03,279 --> 00:12:09,519
Desiree Ross, the Ross Center, Special
Events Ordinance.

158
00:12:08,560 --> 00:12:15,279
» Good afternoon.
>> Good afternoon.

159
00:12:11,760 --> 00:12:21,360
» Uh, I'm coming on the same subject. Um,
and I've typed it down so I can stay on

160
00:12:17,519 --> 00:12:26,000
track. Um, mayor, Councilman, Chief
Austin, of course. U, my name is Desiree

161
00:12:24,079 --> 00:12:31,200
Ross and my husband and I, we own the
Ross Center on Russell Street. The

162
00:12:28,240 --> 00:12:35,440
location is 1535 Russell Street, right
next to the old bowling alley where they

163
00:12:32,800 --> 00:12:38,720
all revamp and everything. My husband
and I have been taxpayers through

164
00:12:37,040 --> 00:12:43,120
multiple businesses in the city of
Orangeburg, and the Raw Center is one of

165
00:12:41,279 --> 00:12:48,800
our longest businesses that we've been
paying taxes on, almost 18 years.

166
00:12:46,880 --> 00:12:53,360
And so we've worked hard to maintain a
great reputation and operate very

167
00:12:51,600 --> 00:12:58,079
responsible. I don't want no issues in
the building or in the parking lot. I'm

168
00:12:56,079 --> 00:13:03,279
here respectfully to ask the council to
consider the ordinance requiring events

169
00:13:00,880 --> 00:13:09,839
and venues like the Raw Center that now
have to end by 11:59 sharp. You have to

170
00:13:06,880 --> 00:13:15,760
be out, cleaning included.
I understand the city's concerns about

171
00:13:12,480 --> 00:13:20,240
noise, alcohol, crowds, safety. Of
course, number one,

172
00:13:18,000 --> 00:13:25,360
I'm not asking to remove those concerns
and protections. I'm asking you to give

173
00:13:22,720 --> 00:13:31,120
a responsible business that follow the
rules and responsible opportunity to

174
00:13:28,560 --> 00:13:36,639
operate a little later.
And I've met with the city and public

175
00:13:33,839 --> 00:13:41,440
safety. They have reviewed my contract
and the requirements I place on anybody

176
00:13:39,120 --> 00:13:46,959
that rents my facility.
My contract is strict and I enforce it

177
00:13:43,760 --> 00:13:51,920
to the fullest.
I'm proactive about security. We have

178
00:13:49,279 --> 00:13:56,639
cameras inside and outside the facility.
If I see that something is not going

179
00:13:54,079 --> 00:14:00,160
well, I will call public safety myself
to just get somebody to drive through

180
00:13:58,320 --> 00:14:07,040
the parking lot because the crowd might
not look as pleasant.

181
00:14:03,519 --> 00:14:12,480
The 1159 restriction is are is hurting
our ability to compete with other venues

182
00:14:09,760 --> 00:14:18,320
that are not in the city. We're
competing with venues outside the city

183
00:14:14,639 --> 00:14:25,440
limits or in the county where advanced
hours are not as restricted or monitored

184
00:14:22,320 --> 00:14:29,680
as such as in the city.
If customer can celebrate later

185
00:14:28,160 --> 00:14:35,600
somewhere else, guess where they going
to go? Somewhere else.

186
00:14:32,560 --> 00:14:41,120
And so that means I lose revenue, me and
my husband, but the city loses revenue

187
00:14:38,560 --> 00:14:47,120
too because I can't pay the taxes if I'm
not making the money.

188
00:14:43,360 --> 00:14:52,480
Think about a 40th, 50th, even a 60th
birthday party, anniversary, wedding

189
00:14:49,279 --> 00:14:56,560
reception. Adults aren't necessarily
trying to party until 2, 3:00 in the

190
00:14:54,880 --> 00:15:01,839
morning.
They just may be simply celebrating

191
00:14:59,360 --> 00:15:08,800
until midnight, then clean up and be out
by 1 or even a little bit later. I

192
00:15:05,360 --> 00:15:12,240
experienced this myself. I had a 60th
birthday party on August the 8th at my

193
00:15:10,800 --> 00:15:15,680
own building. I'm not going to pay for
another building if I got one.

194
00:15:14,390 --> 00:15:19,680
[laughter]
But even in my own building, during my

195
00:15:17,600 --> 00:15:23,920
party, my own birthday party, I felt
rushed because I was watching the clock

196
00:15:21,600 --> 00:15:30,240
and trying to get out by what time?
11:59.

197
00:15:26,240 --> 00:15:35,760
Now, my event was non-alcoholic. We had
fun. We had dancing. We had honorary to

198
00:15:32,639 --> 00:15:41,040
me for ministry aspects, but I was still
watching the clock. I don't want to get

199
00:15:37,440 --> 00:15:46,160
in trouble in my own building. Okay? But
I'm asking the council to consider

200
00:15:43,040 --> 00:15:50,720
responsible compliant event venues to
operate to at least one:00. Put

201
00:15:48,639 --> 00:15:54,880
reasonable safeguards on it. Require
security when appropriate. require

202
00:15:52,720 --> 00:16:00,720
compliance with noise noise ordinance
and public safety. And if a venue does

203
00:15:57,680 --> 00:16:05,040
not follow these requirements,
take the time away.

204
00:16:03,199 --> 00:16:10,720
Then I'm also asking that you
distinguish the event time from the

205
00:16:07,440 --> 00:16:15,920
cleaning time. So, if an event is until
1:00, give them the extra hour to clean

206
00:16:13,440 --> 00:16:20,639
up the facility for the people that own
the facility so it can be brought to the

207
00:16:18,240 --> 00:16:28,079
original condition because if not, it
causes threats on the owners.

208
00:16:23,519 --> 00:16:33,839
» I'm also asking I'm not asking to be a
nightclub, a bar. I'm asking a fair

209
00:16:31,040 --> 00:16:39,440
opportunity to operate a legitimate
small business, pay the property taxes

210
00:16:37,040 --> 00:16:44,560
like I'm supposed to, pay the business
expenses like I'm supposed to, maintain

211
00:16:42,480 --> 00:16:50,480
my building, but I have to generate
revenue in order to continue to do that.

212
00:16:47,600 --> 00:16:54,480
I don't want the RAW center to become
another empty building on Russell

213
00:16:52,240 --> 00:16:58,720
Street.
I want to continue maintaining it,

214
00:16:56,480 --> 00:17:04,160
paying taxes, and contributing to this
awesome city. So, I'm respectfully

215
00:17:01,440 --> 00:17:10,079
asking the council to review the
ordinance that was placed after CO

216
00:17:07,600 --> 00:17:14,640
and give responsible venues and follow
the rules an opportunity to operate to

217
00:17:12,480 --> 00:17:19,919
at least 1:00
um with a reasonable safeguard and

218
00:17:16,480 --> 00:17:27,280
cleanup time. Give those that who follow
the rules a fair opportunity to compete.

219
00:17:23,120 --> 00:17:28,960
survive and continue in this great city.
>> That's me.

220
00:17:28,160 --> 00:17:31,600
» Thank you.
>> You're welcome.

221
00:17:29,440 --> 00:17:35,679
» Maybe someone have questions. Dr. Clue.
>> Dr.

222
00:17:32,720 --> 00:17:39,919
» Yeah. Thank you for the presentation. I
will ask you the same question that I

223
00:17:37,280 --> 00:17:43,440
asked the other gentlemen. When did you
receive the notice?

224
00:17:41,280 --> 00:17:48,080
» I never received the notice. It was
brought to me through public safety.

225
00:17:45,679 --> 00:17:50,720
» Okay. Uh how many citations have you
received on that building?

226
00:17:49,280 --> 00:17:56,160
» Zero.
>> Thank you, ma'am.

227
00:17:51,679 --> 00:17:59,679
» Yes, sir. Any more questions?
>> Uh, hold on.

228
00:17:58,000 --> 00:18:03,280
» I may have a question maybe directed
towards Mr. Evering. When was this

229
00:18:00,960 --> 00:18:07,120
change? You said about two years ago,
>> I believe. So, yes, sir. I'm not on the

230
00:18:05,360 --> 00:18:11,760
perfect time, but that's what I heard.
>> Approximately two years ago. Do we have

231
00:18:08,559 --> 00:18:16,080
some type of problems that were
that [clears throat] we changed it?

232
00:18:14,559 --> 00:18:19,679
» I'm going to have to look into that. I
don't recall right off hand when it was

233
00:18:18,480 --> 00:18:21,200
changed.
might have been changed before I got

234
00:18:20,799 --> 00:18:23,840
here.
>> It was changed before you got here.

235
00:18:22,400 --> 00:18:30,080
» Yeah, I think so.
>> We had a lot of homicides, fighting,

236
00:18:26,960 --> 00:18:36,640
killing, shooting all of Columbia Road.
And um and and what happened is that

237
00:18:34,000 --> 00:18:41,120
when public safety would go out there,
>> especially somebody got killed, they

238
00:18:38,799 --> 00:18:45,679
would have to work from that time. If it
happened at 11:00, they had to work from

239
00:18:42,960 --> 00:18:48,240
11 to 6 in the morning to kind of get
all the evidence and whatever all they

240
00:18:47,840 --> 00:18:52,720
do.
>> Yes, sir. and and that was and we had a

241
00:18:51,039 --> 00:18:57,679
lot of cases coming that if y'all can
remember during that time and that's

242
00:18:55,039 --> 00:19:01,280
when it came you we recommend to us that
we change the time so that they if

243
00:19:00,000 --> 00:19:06,000
something happened that give them time
to work the case and get the evidence

244
00:19:03,440 --> 00:19:08,960
and bring it back in to us. We had a lot
there was a lot going on at that

245
00:19:07,280 --> 00:19:12,480
particular time. It's been it's been
more than two it's been a while back

246
00:19:11,280 --> 00:19:17,840
» that we Yeah.
>> I don't know. But uh but we we we're

247
00:19:15,440 --> 00:19:21,840
taking this under advis under advisement
because we do need the business in this

248
00:19:19,760 --> 00:19:26,960
city and we're listening to you. Okay.
>> You all you all and we'll we'll discuss

249
00:19:24,400 --> 00:19:30,080
it among ourselves and we'll get back
with you all.

250
00:19:27,760 --> 00:19:31,120
» Thank you so much. Okay. Mayor Butler C.
Oh.

251
00:19:30,720 --> 00:19:38,799
» Yes sir.
>> Mr. Thank you, Mayor. 11:59 is the time

252
00:19:36,320 --> 00:19:44,799
uh you all have to be out of
>> everybody clean up included. Yes, sir.

253
00:19:42,640 --> 00:19:48,559
What time can you go in? You gave me an
ending time. What time can you go in?

254
00:19:46,960 --> 00:19:52,880
» Well, at my event, they can go in at
8:00. I do daily rentals only. And so

255
00:19:51,520 --> 00:19:57,840
that way they can set up at their
leisure. Most events start at 6 or 7,

256
00:19:56,000 --> 00:20:02,480
but people are really stressing out
because if you start a party, you start

257
00:20:00,240 --> 00:20:06,640
dancing, you got some old school music
going. You know how it is. You want to

258
00:20:04,240 --> 00:20:13,120
hang around and and and you want to have
a great time with your birthday, but you

259
00:20:09,520 --> 00:20:17,520
know 11:59 including cleaning up is very
difficult for 30,000 size building. They

260
00:20:15,679 --> 00:20:21,280
have to mop everything and get every So
basically I tell them they have to be

261
00:20:19,039 --> 00:20:24,559
out by 11:30 because I don't want to be
penalized for anything.

262
00:20:22,960 --> 00:20:29,760
» And if you're up in age, you don't want
to be longer than 11:00 or 11:30.

263
00:20:29,360 --> 00:20:34,080
» Thank you.
>> Did I answer your question, sir? I'm

264
00:20:31,200 --> 00:20:37,919
sorry. I'm saying 11 11:59 this what
time you start you know have these day

265
00:20:36,080 --> 00:20:41,760
parties and all those good things now
>> you got something

266
00:20:38,559 --> 00:20:46,000
» but I I understand your
>> where your place at you know lifestyle

267
00:20:44,159 --> 00:20:49,280
have changed
>> you know lifestyle has changed we used

268
00:20:47,520 --> 00:20:52,640
to go home at 12:00
>> right

269
00:20:50,720 --> 00:20:53,919
» now they don't come out until whatever
time

270
00:20:53,200 --> 00:20:57,520
» right
>> oh not in my event [laughter] not in my

271
00:20:56,480 --> 00:21:00,720
place
>> thank you ma'am

272
00:20:58,240 --> 00:21:05,360
» anyone else nothing else but we will
take it under consideration and I'm sure

273
00:21:03,440 --> 00:21:08,320
we'll get back with you as soon as
possible.

274
00:21:06,159 --> 00:21:14,240
» Thank you.
>> We have some people standing up. There's

275
00:21:10,159 --> 00:21:18,240
some seats over here by Jean Jean
newspaper and there some seats right

276
00:21:16,080 --> 00:21:24,320
here on the front by Chief Austin if
y'all need to come and sit down. Some

277
00:21:20,799 --> 00:21:27,880
people stand up there. She has a cane
and she needs to

278
00:21:28,720 --> 00:21:34,349
chief. I don't mean for you to go in the
back. We might we need you up here.

279
00:21:32,329 --> 00:21:34,349
[laughter]

280
00:21:34,640 --> 00:21:47,320
Yeah. So, okay.
Thank you very much for

281
00:21:43,200 --> 00:21:47,320
old business, Mr. Eye.

282
00:21:48,240 --> 00:21:54,159
» Good evening, Mayor and Council.
>> Good evening. Good evening.

283
00:21:52,320 --> 00:21:57,520
The first item in old business that we
have for your consideration is third

284
00:21:55,840 --> 00:22:03,200
reading of an ordinance amending the
budget for the city of Orangeburg for

285
00:21:59,760 --> 00:22:09,520
the fiscal year October 1, 2025 through
September 30th, 2026.

286
00:22:06,400 --> 00:22:14,799
Uh there is one uh substantial change
that I want to bring to your attention.

287
00:22:11,440 --> 00:22:21,240
Um so for the first reading we had the
amended the current I meant the

288
00:22:16,640 --> 00:22:21,240
estimated amended budget at 23,79,310.

289
00:22:22,080 --> 00:22:29,120
Uh for this reading we've added $6
million to that and that is $6 million

290
00:22:26,799 --> 00:22:38,039
in grant funds and that is the the only
difference. So, um, it would take that,

291
00:22:33,679 --> 00:22:38,039
uh, amended amount to 29,719

292
00:22:38,159 --> 00:22:42,120
thou, I'm sorry, 29,719,37.

293
00:22:42,480 --> 00:22:52,320
Uh, as far as our uh, budget to actual,
we're still tracking uh, as of last

294
00:22:49,440 --> 00:22:56,880
week, we're at 80% of budget with about
a month left. So, we do anticipate

295
00:22:54,559 --> 00:23:00,799
coming in under budget, but I did want
to bring that uh difference point that

296
00:22:59,360 --> 00:23:05,919
difference out to you. Again, that's
just $6 million in grant funds.

297
00:23:04,880 --> 00:23:12,720
» Okay.
>> Can you uh clarify um or add elaborate a

298
00:23:10,320 --> 00:23:20,720
bit on the $6 million? You're saying
that's um grant funds that were

299
00:23:16,960 --> 00:23:26,720
uh utilized or grant funds received? I
think it was re received. Is it correct?

300
00:23:25,440 --> 00:23:28,320
» But budgeted, not used.
>> Budgeted but not

301
00:23:27,600 --> 00:23:33,000
» but not used. Yeah,
>> but not used. Thank you for the

302
00:23:30,000 --> 00:23:33,000
clarification.

303
00:23:33,760 --> 00:23:42,360
» Those were grants we applied for and
received.

304
00:23:38,480 --> 00:23:42,360
» Budgeted for not.

305
00:23:44,320 --> 00:23:51,520
» Are there any more questions, concerns?
I was going to ask the same question she

306
00:23:50,320 --> 00:23:55,360
asked.
>> Good.

307
00:23:52,559 --> 00:24:00,159
» Okay. All right. If not, I would like to
read this ordinance, please. An

308
00:23:57,840 --> 00:24:05,760
ordinance amending the budget for the
city of Orangeburg, South Carolina for

309
00:24:03,039 --> 00:24:14,000
the fiscal year beginning October 1,
2025 and ending September 30th, 2026. We

310
00:24:10,880 --> 00:24:17,840
would like to entertain a motion.
>> So move properly moved by Councilman

311
00:24:16,480 --> 00:24:20,880
Grievous. Second.
>> Second by Councilman Kit. All in favor?

312
00:24:20,159 --> 00:24:25,279
» I.
>> Any opposed? Eyes have it. The motion is

313
00:24:23,840 --> 00:24:29,600
carried.
>> Okay. Item number three.

314
00:24:27,120 --> 00:24:33,679
» Thank you, Mayor Council. Item number
three, uh, for your consideration is

315
00:24:31,520 --> 00:24:37,840
third reading of an ordinance adopting
the budget for the city of Orangeburg

316
00:24:35,200 --> 00:24:43,760
for the fiscal year October 1, 2026
through September 30th, 2027.

317
00:24:41,440 --> 00:24:48,640
establishing the Hillcrest Golf Course
Enterprise Fund and renaming the service

318
00:24:46,720 --> 00:24:52,559
department as a maintenance department
with some additional restructuring. Uh

319
00:24:50,880 --> 00:24:59,120
before I begin, I want to take a moment
to recognize and thank all of our

320
00:24:56,240 --> 00:25:04,000
directors. Um I think most of whom are
here uh with us e this evening. uh as

321
00:25:02,720 --> 00:25:09,760
you know going through the budget
process is a very detailed I would

322
00:25:07,360 --> 00:25:14,640
almost say arduous process but it's
something that is uh that we take very

323
00:25:12,480 --> 00:25:20,559
seriously and I want to commend our
directors um Mishka Williams

324
00:25:18,640 --> 00:25:23,200
» ask y'all to stand our directors y'all
stand up so we can clap our hands for

325
00:25:22,720 --> 00:25:26,000
you
>> Williams is the finance coordinator

326
00:25:25,512 --> 00:25:29,600
[clears throat]
>> Mr. Roger Brandt, he's over at the

327
00:25:28,159 --> 00:25:34,960
service department. Of course, Chief
Austin over the Department of Public

328
00:25:31,600 --> 00:25:39,679
Safety. We have Marty Con who's the
interimm uh parks and recreation

329
00:25:37,039 --> 00:25:45,360
director and David Upton who's over our
public works department. So, they all

330
00:25:41,440 --> 00:25:51,440
worked extremely hard meeting constantly
and hours and hours to try to put the

331
00:25:48,320 --> 00:25:55,840
best uh budget possible forth for your
consideration. So I I do want to thank

332
00:25:52,960 --> 00:26:01,440
and acknowledge that Teresa Williams
who's our assistant city administrator

333
00:25:58,240 --> 00:26:04,480
who and HR director. So uh please join
me in thanking

334
00:26:01,919 --> 00:26:08,559
» Can we throw Daniel in there? Daniel
right there.

335
00:26:04,880 --> 00:26:13,200
» Oh yes, Daniel is [laughter] the one
I apologize Daniel. You so quiet.

336
00:26:11,039 --> 00:26:17,440
» Stand up Daniel. So Daniel, please stand
up. Uh Daniel Driggers who did all all

337
00:26:15,679 --> 00:26:22,240
the budget coordinators. [applause]
>> Thank you all. and Clay Clay back there.

338
00:26:20,240 --> 00:26:26,559
He's unassuming with it.
>> Yes, sir.

339
00:26:23,279 --> 00:26:33,640
» So, I I just cannot thank them enough
for for all their hard work. Um and so I

340
00:26:29,679 --> 00:26:33,640
appreciate you guys. Thank you.

341
00:26:34,799 --> 00:26:46,799
» So, um do want to just remind council of
some of the highlights of of this um

342
00:26:43,760 --> 00:26:52,960
budget that we're proposing. Um, let me
get my

343
00:26:49,039 --> 00:27:01,360
numbers here together. So, we have uh a
general fund uh proposed budget revenue

344
00:26:57,039 --> 00:27:04,679
and expenses in the amount of 26 million
uh 376,756.

345
00:27:04,960 --> 00:27:16,720
Uh this would include um a oper fund
transfer operate

346
00:27:13,120 --> 00:27:24,080
amount of $1.9 million. Uh we would use
these funds to help cover uh cost. As

347
00:27:20,880 --> 00:27:30,559
you might recall, we originally um
recommended uh transition closing the

348
00:27:27,360 --> 00:27:35,600
forensics lab and also a 10 mil increase
which would have uh brought in about

349
00:27:33,200 --> 00:27:42,320
$400 to $450,000
that we were going to use uh for capital

350
00:27:38,320 --> 00:27:46,559
improvements for DPS. But this um this
$1.9 million is a one-time

351
00:27:44,799 --> 00:27:56,000
non-reoccurring
uh transfer that will uh help cover

352
00:27:51,120 --> 00:28:02,960
those uh costs and um
but I will again emphasize that it's

353
00:27:58,960 --> 00:28:10,320
non-reoccurring and and so uh we will
need to either uh find ways to continue

354
00:28:07,200 --> 00:28:15,679
to cut expenses or expand the tax base
tax revenue uh to make sure that we can

355
00:28:13,279 --> 00:28:24,559
provide citizens with the services that
they currently expect. Um

356
00:28:19,760 --> 00:28:32,240
we are not recommending uh any new debt
uh for 2027. Uh business license rates

357
00:28:28,960 --> 00:28:36,799
remain unchanged. Um we do we have set
aside some funds for the update to our

358
00:28:34,880 --> 00:28:43,520
comprehensive plan which is required
every 10 years. Um, we have included

359
00:28:40,480 --> 00:28:50,640
funding in there for uh the employee
compensation program. Um,

360
00:28:47,360 --> 00:28:57,520
we have included $38,000 for a kennel
for rescue animals. Again, $400,000 for

361
00:28:54,880 --> 00:29:04,880
patrol vehicles and equipment. Uh,
$74,000 for safety equipment. $800,000

362
00:29:01,679 --> 00:29:11,039
to refurbish two fire engines.
uh $220,000 to replace a graffle truck.

363
00:29:09,440 --> 00:29:18,559
Um
$100,000 to replace HVAC uh

364
00:29:16,159 --> 00:29:24,960
equipment in this building and in
Stevenson auditorium. So again, we would

365
00:29:22,159 --> 00:29:30,320
recommend transferring the ARPA funds.
Now that that will eliminate uh funding

366
00:29:28,240 --> 00:29:34,880
available to fund some of those projects
that were uh listed in ARPA. So I want

367
00:29:33,039 --> 00:29:42,799
to be clear on that. We would have to
find other funding sources to

368
00:29:38,960 --> 00:29:47,360
uh to do those projects. Um but as it
stands now, our recommendation would be

369
00:29:44,559 --> 00:29:53,600
to transfer those funds uh to not
increase the millillage and keep the

370
00:29:49,120 --> 00:29:57,399
millage at 109 mills.
>> Okay. Okay, sir.

371
00:29:58,640 --> 00:30:02,200
» Thank you, Sydney.

372
00:30:02,480 --> 00:30:08,320
I need to go back.
I'm glad that we're [clears throat] not

373
00:30:06,240 --> 00:30:16,480
increasing the the rate, you know, the
tax on the people, but I need to go back

374
00:30:12,799 --> 00:30:19,480
to to the audit that was done by the
agency.

375
00:30:20,799 --> 00:30:31,200
As we move into this new
budget for the new fiscal year,

376
00:30:28,320 --> 00:30:37,279
I will implore you and your department
to try very hard

377
00:30:34,880 --> 00:30:42,240
to see that we have a CFO.
>> Yes,

378
00:30:38,480 --> 00:30:46,000
» we need to have a CFO who will track our
expenses,

379
00:30:44,240 --> 00:30:54,159
our revenue
and uh let us know how we are doing

380
00:30:49,120 --> 00:31:03,360
financially. We need to have a CFO.
>> Then second thing is the hill crest is

381
00:30:58,799 --> 00:31:07,279
like a nagging headache. Mhm.
>> We need to put our foot down on that

382
00:31:05,200 --> 00:31:15,200
hill crest
and find a thorough solution, you know,

383
00:31:10,559 --> 00:31:23,559
with our partnership with our state
to make sure that it's a viable

384
00:31:19,279 --> 00:31:23,559
uh program for the city.

385
00:31:24,000 --> 00:31:34,000
So CFO
and um Hillrest

386
00:31:31,039 --> 00:31:39,760
and we need to go back to that audit
that we did in in terms of consolidation

387
00:31:36,880 --> 00:31:45,440
because that was one of the proposals.
>> So we need to look around and see how we

388
00:31:42,640 --> 00:31:49,760
can combine certain things [snorts]
>> if it's possible

389
00:31:47,919 --> 00:31:55,279
you know because the more you have the
more expenses.

390
00:31:52,240 --> 00:32:02,000
So we need to redirect
you know what we do financially because

391
00:31:59,440 --> 00:32:08,159
when we look at our population is a
growing population

392
00:32:04,480 --> 00:32:14,000
and most of the uh folks
either Medicare or

393
00:32:11,519 --> 00:32:19,279
retired
you know so we cannot keep imposing and

394
00:32:17,679 --> 00:32:25,519
that's what I said I'm glad we did not
increase you know the the millillage

395
00:32:22,799 --> 00:32:32,159
And so we have to find a way to buffer
the zone. We have to find a way really

396
00:32:28,240 --> 00:32:37,279
good, you know, uh because there limits
somebody can take with, you know, the

397
00:32:34,399 --> 00:32:41,919
job unemployment rate is kind of a
little bit high in the, you know, in the

398
00:32:39,919 --> 00:32:49,039
city of Orangeburg and also in the
county. So let's try very hard as we

399
00:32:45,440 --> 00:32:53,840
move in into this new fiscal year to see
that we make a lot of changes

400
00:32:51,760 --> 00:32:57,679
» that will be beneficial to us.
>> Yes, sir. If I can speak to a couple of

401
00:32:55,360 --> 00:33:03,840
those um issues that you you raised. So
so CFO as you all know we we've hired a

402
00:33:00,960 --> 00:33:09,600
a consulting firm that a search firm
that we've been working with to find a

403
00:33:05,360 --> 00:33:15,200
CFO. Uh CFO is for a local government is
probably one of the most difficult

404
00:33:10,880 --> 00:33:21,919
positions to fill. It's a very um niche
skill set if you will. Uh it is

405
00:33:18,559 --> 00:33:27,919
extremely difficult to find a a a
qualified uh experienced candidate. And

406
00:33:25,760 --> 00:33:32,399
so again, we we are working with the
consultant. They're engaged in that

407
00:33:29,600 --> 00:33:36,320
process as we speak. Uh they are
interviewing uh doing preliminary

408
00:33:34,799 --> 00:33:43,360
interviewing
and to identify candidates, finalists

409
00:33:39,840 --> 00:33:50,240
for us to consider. So we are actively
uh engaged in that process. As far as

410
00:33:46,320 --> 00:33:58,320
Hillrest is concerned, um yes sir, we we
certainly uh know that Hillrest has has

411
00:33:54,000 --> 00:34:02,080
been an issue. Uh but quite frankly, the
investment in Hillrest has has been less

412
00:34:00,559 --> 00:34:05,919
than what it it should have been over
the years. Uh we entered into a new

413
00:34:04,159 --> 00:34:12,480
agreement with South Carolina State a
year or so ago. Uh, as a reminder, that

414
00:34:08,480 --> 00:34:18,720
agreement does allow the city to um to
terminate that agreement if there are

415
00:34:14,079 --> 00:34:24,960
two years of uh losses uh at Hillrest.
Um we uh have set aside South Carolina

416
00:34:22,320 --> 00:34:31,200
State gave us $700,000 that we're using
to do the top tracer uh facility at

417
00:34:29,040 --> 00:34:35,679
Hillrest that's in the process of being
constructed uh as we speak. We expect

418
00:34:33,440 --> 00:34:44,079
that to be a significant revenue
generator. Uh you all set aside u $2.2

419
00:34:40,960 --> 00:34:50,240
million in capital project sales tax
taxes that uh can be used for

420
00:34:47,839 --> 00:34:56,639
improvements to Hillrest. So we believe
that once those significant investments

421
00:34:54,560 --> 00:35:03,040
are made in Hillrest and we can improve
the facility uh that the usage will

422
00:35:00,720 --> 00:35:07,760
increase and revenue thereby will
increase because we realize the

423
00:35:04,960 --> 00:35:15,440
important asset that it is to the entire
entire community and has been for years.

424
00:35:10,240 --> 00:35:21,680
Um but again if if it turns out that the
there are losses we have the option to

425
00:35:18,640 --> 00:35:26,160
get out of the agreement.
>> Thank you.

426
00:35:24,640 --> 00:35:30,640
» Any more? Go ahead.
>> Yeah. Just a um couple of questions and

427
00:35:28,800 --> 00:35:35,040
clarifications. I want to start with the
last thing that you said in terms of we

428
00:35:32,160 --> 00:35:40,000
set aside $2 million um for improvements
to Hillrest through the um penny tax.

429
00:35:38,560 --> 00:35:43,599
Correct. Yes. But that was something
that was voted on by the public, right?

430
00:35:41,920 --> 00:35:45,599
So it wasn't something that we set
aside.

431
00:35:44,160 --> 00:35:49,440
» That that's a better way to put it. Yes.
>> So I do want to um make sure that we're

432
00:35:47,599 --> 00:35:56,320
aware that the public had input in that
decision as well. Um in terms of the

433
00:35:52,160 --> 00:36:04,960
surplus for the anticipated surplus for
this um year and do we anticipate a

434
00:36:01,920 --> 00:36:10,560
surplus for this coming year? I know
it's hard to look ahead, but um with the

435
00:36:07,839 --> 00:36:16,480
way that the budget is allocated, are we
working towards um seeing a surplus in

436
00:36:13,839 --> 00:36:21,359
this budget for 2627?
>> That that is always the goal.

437
00:36:18,720 --> 00:36:27,280
» Um and as you said, it's it's difficult
to to predict that because any anything

438
00:36:23,440 --> 00:36:32,560
can come up. Um but yes, we we are
trying to budget accordingly to to make

439
00:36:29,359 --> 00:36:37,440
sure that we have um and do all that we
can just like we did this past year. Uh

440
00:36:35,280 --> 00:36:46,640
I commend our directors again for being
very uh mindful of of spending of trying

441
00:36:41,520 --> 00:36:52,000
to um find revenue generating um
activities that can be done and which

442
00:36:49,119 --> 00:36:57,440
has allowed us to be again about 80% of
our budget this year. Uh so it it's

443
00:36:55,119 --> 00:37:02,400
difficult to to answer your question in
affirmative because I just cannot

444
00:36:59,520 --> 00:37:06,160
predict the future. Um but we certainly
will do all we can

445
00:37:04,079 --> 00:37:09,839
» and if there is a surplus where do those
funds go?

446
00:37:07,520 --> 00:37:13,119
» Our reserves to to make sure that we
have build up the reserves.

447
00:37:11,520 --> 00:37:16,720
» And what are the reserves used for
exactly?

448
00:37:14,480 --> 00:37:20,000
» Just that [laughter] just reserves. Can
you kind of

449
00:37:17,760 --> 00:37:27,760
» just just in case something happens, we
get a a bad storm or or what have you?

450
00:37:23,839 --> 00:37:31,520
Um it's it's just for a rainy day, so to
speak.

451
00:37:28,400 --> 00:37:38,960
» Thank you.
>> Any more questions? Any more concerns?

452
00:37:36,640 --> 00:37:43,920
» Okay, I'm going to read the ordinance.
An ordinance approving the budget for

453
00:37:41,280 --> 00:37:50,079
the city of Orangeburg, South Carolina
for the fiscal year beginning October 1,

454
00:37:46,240 --> 00:37:56,720
2026 ending September 30, 2027,
establishing the Hillrest Golf Course

455
00:37:52,800 --> 00:38:01,720
Enterprise Fund and renaming the service
department as the maintenance

456
00:37:58,720 --> 00:38:01,720
department.

457
00:38:02,079 --> 00:38:04,721
the motion. [clears throat]

458
00:38:06,800 --> 00:38:14,400
Mayor and Council, I move to adopt the
ordinance approving the budget for the

459
00:38:11,839 --> 00:38:18,720
city of Orangeburg, South Carolina for
the fiscal year beginning October 1st,

460
00:38:17,119 --> 00:38:25,520
2026
and ending September 30th, 2027,

461
00:38:22,720 --> 00:38:30,320
establishing the Hillrest Golf Course
Enterprise Fund and renaming the service

462
00:38:28,480 --> 00:38:36,520
department as the maintenance
department.

463
00:38:31,599 --> 00:38:36,520
» Motion's been made by Councilman Kit.

464
00:38:36,800 --> 00:38:45,520
Do we have a second? Second by
councilman Koo. All in favor?

465
00:38:41,760 --> 00:38:55,480
» I oppose. Eyes have it. The motion is
carried. One one opposed. [snorts]

466
00:38:50,320 --> 00:38:55,480
Okay. Item number four.

467
00:39:00,640 --> 00:39:06,040
» Good evening, Baron Council.
>> Good evening. Good evening.

468
00:39:06,400 --> 00:39:16,560
Uh item number four under old business
is uh third reading of the ordinance to

469
00:39:13,200 --> 00:39:24,400
consider a zoning district map change
from A1 residential single unit district

470
00:39:20,240 --> 00:39:31,359
to B3 neighborhood business district for
property belonging to Donald G and

471
00:39:27,040 --> 00:39:36,839
Steven M. Atkins located 1374 St.
Matthews Road. Tax map number

472
00:39:33,839 --> 00:39:36,839
0174-18-09-00005.0000.

473
00:39:43,359 --> 00:39:51,520
Uh as mentioned previously, the
developer uh John Pitus uh whom council

474
00:39:49,119 --> 00:39:58,000
met at the uh second reading and the
public hearing discussed his plans for

475
00:39:54,880 --> 00:40:03,440
uh the area in placing a coffee shop on
the property. Uh Mr. Mr. Pletus has a

476
00:40:01,119 --> 00:40:09,920
contract with the property owners which
allows him to speak on their behalf. Uh

477
00:40:06,720 --> 00:40:14,560
Mr. Pitus also presented his plans to
the planning commission during the June

478
00:40:11,839 --> 00:40:19,839
planning commission meeting. Uh one
person from the community attended but

479
00:40:17,040 --> 00:40:24,880
chose not to speak. After hearing the
plans, the planning commission voted to

480
00:40:21,920 --> 00:40:31,680
recommend the resoning to city council.
Um I reached out to Mr. Pitus uh earlier

481
00:40:28,240 --> 00:40:37,599
today regarding uh any outreach that he
may have uh done along with uh the

482
00:40:35,359 --> 00:40:44,400
property owners and I was told that
there was no outreach that was done.

483
00:40:39,760 --> 00:40:52,280
However, um as required, the city mailed
uh everyone in that area a notification

484
00:40:47,280 --> 00:40:52,280
so that they were aware. Um

485
00:40:53,359 --> 00:40:58,720
so that's the the third reading.
>> Thank you.

486
00:40:56,933 --> 00:41:03,640
[clears throat] All right. Um, council,
do we have any discussions on this

487
00:41:00,640 --> 00:41:03,640
matter?

488
00:41:03,920 --> 00:41:09,280
» I think last time we made mention of
fencing that area, right?

489
00:41:07,920 --> 00:41:14,560
» Yes, sir.
>> How far would the fence go?

490
00:41:11,440 --> 00:41:20,480
» Um, I am not actually sure, but I can
find that out for you. Um, I'm not sure

491
00:41:17,280 --> 00:41:27,920
about the the plans. I'm not sure if
>> they will have they will have to provide

492
00:41:22,640 --> 00:41:31,599
a buffer along the um perimeters of the
residential areas and that business.

493
00:41:31,040 --> 00:41:35,920
» Okay.
>> Will be a buffer there.

494
00:41:34,000 --> 00:41:40,160
Have to run the entire length of the
property.

495
00:41:38,079 --> 00:41:46,960
» Okay. Thank you.
>> Uh Mr. Aptton, let me ask you this

496
00:41:42,640 --> 00:41:54,720
question. Has um what type of buffer of
uh has that been discussed in terms of

497
00:41:51,359 --> 00:42:01,200
» Yes. Our zoning our zoning ordinance
requires a um a type B buffer which

498
00:41:58,560 --> 00:42:06,880
would be a I think it's a a six-foot
fence and the type of buffer that the

499
00:42:04,160 --> 00:42:11,359
type of material that that buffer or
fence has to be made out of is a stone

500
00:42:09,680 --> 00:42:16,244
or concrete.
>> Okay,

501
00:42:14,224 --> 00:42:16,244
[clears throat]

502
00:42:17,520 --> 00:42:23,440
» that's it. Thank you.
>> You miss

503
00:42:20,720 --> 00:42:23,440
anything?

504
00:42:23,839 --> 00:42:30,079
Okay. If if it's no more discussion, I
want to read the ordinance. An ordinance

505
00:42:27,979 --> 00:42:36,960
[clears throat] to approve a change to
the zoning district map from A1

506
00:42:34,240 --> 00:42:42,079
residential to single unit district to
B3

507
00:42:38,560 --> 00:42:49,440
neighborhood business district for the
property belonging to Donald G. And

508
00:42:44,560 --> 00:42:56,520
Steve Ais located at 1374 St. Matthews
Road. tax map number 0174

509
00:42:53,520 --> 00:42:56,520
1809005000000

510
00:42:57,280 --> 00:43:05,119
and provide for related matters. If we
could entertain a motion, please

511
00:43:03,349 --> 00:43:10,000
[snorts] move for approval.
>> Uh motion been made by Dr. Koo.

512
00:43:09,440 --> 00:43:15,599
» Second.
>> Second by uh uh Councilman Kit. All in

513
00:43:14,240 --> 00:43:20,319
favor?
>> All right. Any oppose?

514
00:43:18,800 --> 00:43:24,640
Three,
four, three, four. You You oppose,

515
00:43:23,680 --> 00:43:26,240
» huh?
>> You oppose.

516
00:43:25,440 --> 00:43:37,480
» No, sir.
>> Okay. 3 4 3 4 Three against it.

517
00:43:32,960 --> 00:43:37,480
» Motion. Motion's carried.

518
00:43:38,880 --> 00:43:49,599
» Okay. Okay. Number um item number five
uh under new business uh is a resolution

519
00:43:47,119 --> 00:43:55,520
for the city administrator to negotiate
and enter a contract with we Martin

520
00:43:53,280 --> 00:44:00,079
contracting for the reconstruction of
police camp road due to the flooding

521
00:43:57,440 --> 00:44:07,440
that occurred in 2024.
Um we issued an RFP in April of this

522
00:44:04,640 --> 00:44:14,560
year. Um but we received very little
response. So that um because of that we

523
00:44:10,640 --> 00:44:21,200
reissued the RFP in June of this year.
Um bid notifications were placed on the

524
00:44:18,240 --> 00:44:27,119
skebo site which is the state uh
business opportunity site as well as our

525
00:44:24,079 --> 00:44:34,800
website for any interested party to view
and respond. Um there were six big

526
00:44:30,640 --> 00:44:41,839
criteria that was used. Uh one is proof
of commercial liability insurance. Uh

527
00:44:37,920 --> 00:44:47,839
timeliness of the RFP response. Uh the
experience qualifications and ability to

528
00:44:44,800 --> 00:44:54,160
perform the requested services. Uh the
cost references and any deat

529
00:44:51,520 --> 00:45:00,319
demonstrated compliance with uh state
and federal laws for a total of 100

530
00:44:57,359 --> 00:45:06,400
points. uh including myself, there were
four evaluators and we had a total of

531
00:45:03,920 --> 00:45:11,520
five bid responses.
Um

532
00:45:08,240 --> 00:45:17,200
so we recently sent a letter to um
Martin uh We Martin Contracting

533
00:45:15,119 --> 00:45:22,560
informing them that they received the
highest overall score based on the

534
00:45:20,079 --> 00:45:30,000
evaluation criteria and that we were
recommending them to council to be

535
00:45:25,359 --> 00:45:38,000
awarded the contract. Um, we did receive
monies from FEMA um towards the

536
00:45:33,359 --> 00:45:42,240
reconstruction of the road. Um, and that
was based on an estimate that was given

537
00:45:40,000 --> 00:45:48,760
to us by a local contractor. However,
they decided or they chose not to

538
00:45:44,960 --> 00:45:48,760
respond to the RFP.

539
00:45:49,359 --> 00:45:52,400
» And that this is over there by the
skating ring,

540
00:45:52,000 --> 00:45:54,720
» correct?
>> Over there. Okay. And you're repairing

541
00:45:54,000 --> 00:45:58,880
the road.
>> Yes.

542
00:45:55,200 --> 00:46:04,800
» Oh, good. Good. Good. Okay. Now, any any
questions or concerns while I read the

543
00:46:02,160 --> 00:46:09,760
ordinance resolution?
Okay. Resolution approving the city

544
00:46:06,960 --> 00:46:16,960
administrator to negotiate enter into a
contract with E Martin Contracting LLC

545
00:46:14,800 --> 00:46:21,760
for the reconstruction of the police
camp road and approving for other

546
00:46:20,160 --> 00:46:24,400
related matters. Would you like to
entertain a motion, please? So move

547
00:46:24,000 --> 00:46:27,440
mayor
>> and properly moved by Councilman uh

548
00:46:26,480 --> 00:46:32,720
Hannah.
>> Second second by Councilman Koo. All in

549
00:46:29,920 --> 00:46:37,160
favor? Any opposed? Eyes have it. The
motion is carried. Thank you.

550
00:46:34,000 --> 00:46:37,160
» Thank you.

551
00:46:50,720 --> 00:46:56,960
Good evening. Good evening again, mayor
and council. Um, item number six for

552
00:46:55,040 --> 00:47:02,079
your consideration
is first reading of an ordinance to

553
00:46:59,520 --> 00:47:08,240
amend the city code to add a new article
regulating electric scooters, electric

554
00:47:04,640 --> 00:47:13,359
assist bicycles, electric micromobility
devices, party bicycles, and shared

555
00:47:10,720 --> 00:47:18,480
mobility devices. establishing
definitions, operating rules, equipment

556
00:47:15,760 --> 00:47:23,040
and safety requirements, dismount zones,
parking and obstruction rules, rental

557
00:47:21,200 --> 00:47:31,200
and shared fleet regulations and
enforcement and penalties. Um,

558
00:47:27,359 --> 00:47:39,599
as you all know and uh uh uh Councilman
Hannah has has been uh very instrumental

559
00:47:34,720 --> 00:47:45,440
and admit that uh the city uh become
proactive as it relates to electric

560
00:47:42,319 --> 00:47:51,760
mobility devices. Um and so our city
attorney uh has proposed or put together

561
00:47:49,440 --> 00:47:59,920
an ordinance for your consideration.
I'll just highlight a a few of the

562
00:47:55,680 --> 00:48:05,280
uh items in the ordinance. Um
so it

563
00:48:02,000 --> 00:48:12,160
um it basically would require that
devices these electric uh mobility

564
00:48:08,319 --> 00:48:19,280
devices would be allowed to uh operate
in roadways if the speed limit is 25

565
00:48:16,319 --> 00:48:24,559
miles per hour or less. Uh they must
ride on the right side of the road

566
00:48:21,040 --> 00:48:31,440
obviously and obey all traffic controls.
Uh as it relates to sidewalks, um

567
00:48:28,079 --> 00:48:37,680
bicycles, ebikes and scooters only would
be allowed to ride on sidewalks at a

568
00:48:34,960 --> 00:48:44,880
speed of 8 miles per hour or less. They
have to yield to pedestrians. Um

569
00:48:41,440 --> 00:48:51,200
provide audible signals to pass. Uh
microobility devices and mopeds cannot

570
00:48:48,319 --> 00:48:55,200
operate on sidewalks. Uh there will be
no sidewalk riding in the central

571
00:48:53,520 --> 00:48:59,440
business district which currently would
be designated as Russell Street or

572
00:48:57,280 --> 00:49:09,520
sidewalks of paths bordering South
Carolina State and Claflin. Um anyone in

573
00:49:04,480 --> 00:49:15,920
that capacity must dismount and walk. Um
equipment and safety. The devices must

574
00:49:13,040 --> 00:49:21,440
have lights uh front and rear or
reflective material required after dark.

575
00:49:19,119 --> 00:49:26,559
Functioning brakes. Um again they must
yield and provide audible signals before

576
00:49:24,559 --> 00:49:35,839
passing pedestrians.
Um no one under 16 would be allowed to

577
00:49:30,160 --> 00:49:42,400
operate these uh electric devices. And
if you're under 21, you must use a

578
00:49:38,640 --> 00:49:49,040
helmet. Uh there can be no tampering
with ebike speed limiters or mislabeling

579
00:49:46,240 --> 00:49:54,400
um modified devices. As far as
prohibited activities, uh rental rentals

580
00:49:52,800 --> 00:49:59,599
um shared or dockless fleets of
scooters, ebikes, or micromobility

581
00:49:57,359 --> 00:50:06,240
devices would be banned on the public
way. Um party bicycles like um pedal

582
00:50:03,760 --> 00:50:12,319
pubs or beer bikes would be banned
outright on any public street, sidewalk,

583
00:50:08,800 --> 00:50:19,839
trail or right away. Um parking or
abandoning devices that block pedestrian

584
00:50:15,599 --> 00:50:25,359
paths uh would be prohibited uh along if
they are on um curb ramps, transit

585
00:50:22,880 --> 00:50:32,079
stops, entrances or ADA
uh accessible features. As far as

586
00:50:28,800 --> 00:50:36,880
enforcement violations equals uh public
nuisance and civil penalties escalate

587
00:50:35,200 --> 00:50:41,200
within a rolling 12-month period,
starting at $75 for the first offense,

588
00:50:39,440 --> 00:50:45,520
$110
uh for the second offense, $250 third

589
00:50:43,599 --> 00:50:51,760
and $500
um for any subsequent offenses. Uh

590
00:50:48,640 --> 00:50:56,800
non-compliant devices may be impounded.
Uh administrative hearings are available

591
00:50:53,839 --> 00:51:04,480
for anyone who wants to um protest
within 14 days. The city may also pursue

592
00:51:00,480 --> 00:51:08,079
injunctive relief. Um
as far as administration, it would

593
00:51:06,079 --> 00:51:11,599
require the city administrator or
designate to review the article at least

594
00:51:09,760 --> 00:51:17,440
every 24 months for changes in
technology, state law, and industry. And

595
00:51:15,040 --> 00:51:23,680
of course, it would be effective upon
approval. Um, so those are just some

596
00:51:20,240 --> 00:51:28,400
highlights of the ordinance. U we all
realize this still a work in progress,

597
00:51:26,000 --> 00:51:34,800
but we wanted to put forth something for
you all to consider. Um, I would also

598
00:51:31,040 --> 00:51:40,000
recommend that uh if if you all are
amanable to it that we um engage the

599
00:51:38,160 --> 00:51:46,640
universities Claflin and South Ghana
State for their input as well once uh we

600
00:51:43,520 --> 00:51:51,119
have a a working ordinance that that you
all are comfortable with.

601
00:51:48,559 --> 00:51:56,400
Happy to answer any questions.
>> Oh yes, sir.

602
00:51:53,040 --> 00:52:01,160
» Have you seen some people on the street
with their motorized wheelchair?

603
00:52:04,319 --> 00:52:12,079
» So the question is would those would
those apply?

604
00:52:09,760 --> 00:52:16,880
» Yeah. So what do you classify that?
>> Michael, you want to talk that?

605
00:52:14,880 --> 00:52:21,200
Excuse me.
Yes.

606
00:52:18,720 --> 00:52:29,240
» Uh I will look in the section, but the
intent was there be a carve out for um

607
00:52:25,200 --> 00:52:29,240
handicap related devices.

608
00:52:30,960 --> 00:52:37,760
» Can you read the first um what thing you
said? You said that they can ride on

609
00:52:35,680 --> 00:52:39,520
public highways with a speed limit less
than 25 miles an hour. Did I hear that

610
00:52:39,119 --> 00:52:45,680
correctly?
>> Yes. Roadways allowed if the speed limit

611
00:52:42,880 --> 00:52:51,760
is posted at 25 miles per hour or less.
But they would have to, you know, obey

612
00:52:48,480 --> 00:52:55,280
traffic signals and and and ride on the
the right side of the street just like

613
00:52:53,520 --> 00:52:59,119
any anyone else.
>> Michael, is there anything in title 56

614
00:52:56,960 --> 00:53:02,160
that contradicts that?
>> I apologize.

615
00:53:00,640 --> 00:53:05,680
» I was looking for the other item. I
didn't hear that question.

616
00:53:03,280 --> 00:53:12,559
» Is there anything in title 56 of the
state code of laws that prevents a ebike

617
00:53:08,720 --> 00:53:18,319
or e- scooter to travel on roadways? Um,
as far as I recall, 56, other than

618
00:53:15,440 --> 00:53:23,119
actual motor vehicles, of course, um,
deals with

619
00:53:20,319 --> 00:53:26,960
golf carts, and I know in November it
will deal with side by sides, but I

620
00:53:24,960 --> 00:53:30,880
don't recall that it covers anything.
>> So, the definition of a motor vehicle in

621
00:53:28,640 --> 00:53:35,599
title 56 doesn't cover these is what
you're saying.

622
00:53:31,599 --> 00:53:40,160
» Uh, no. And low um low-speed vehicles,
which is a separate section, would also

623
00:53:38,000 --> 00:53:46,880
not I don't think would cover this as
well. Okay.

624
00:53:43,440 --> 00:53:51,520
» Um, just a couple of clarifications. Uh,
so the sidewalks, pathways bordering

625
00:53:49,599 --> 00:53:58,400
South Carolina State and Claflin, that
would include 601, correct? So, um, as

626
00:53:54,960 --> 00:54:03,359
it's written, they would have to, um,
walk the bike along 601.

627
00:54:01,760 --> 00:54:10,400
» Yes, ma'am.
and u riders under 16 may not operate an

628
00:54:06,880 --> 00:54:17,280
electric scooter um or micro mobility
device. So if the device is made for a

629
00:54:14,559 --> 00:54:22,480
child um they would still have to be 16
years of age to operate that device for

630
00:54:20,000 --> 00:54:26,079
a child under 16. If the device is made
for a child under 16 they would still

631
00:54:24,240 --> 00:54:28,800
have to be 16 years of age to operate
that device

632
00:54:27,200 --> 00:54:33,359
» as
it's currently drafted. That is correct.

633
00:54:30,559 --> 00:54:43,680
» Okay. And this is banning um any rental
companies coming into the city um to

634
00:54:37,040 --> 00:54:47,839
rent ebikes to um citizens. Okay.
>> I had one more question uh for Chief

635
00:54:45,599 --> 00:54:52,760
Alson. Have we had any collisions or
anything with any of these scooters or

636
00:54:49,760 --> 00:54:52,760
ebikes?

637
00:54:55,040 --> 00:55:02,319
» Mr. Mayor, members of council, uh we've
had a couple of incidents. Yes.

638
00:54:59,839 --> 00:55:06,319
» Okay. But no one has been injured.
>> Okay. Are we seeing an increase in

639
00:55:04,480 --> 00:55:11,040
these?
>> We are. We're seeing an increase in

640
00:55:07,920 --> 00:55:16,880
ebikes and also we've noticed an uptick
in the thefts of ebikes.

641
00:55:14,079 --> 00:55:20,480
» All right. Thank you.
>> And it may be hard to classify, but

642
00:55:19,119 --> 00:55:25,440
would you say that the use is
particularly around the academic year

643
00:55:23,440 --> 00:55:28,960
and when South Carolina State and
Claflin are in session?

644
00:55:27,440 --> 00:55:35,040
» No, not particularly.
>> Okay. Thank you.

645
00:55:31,920 --> 00:55:38,800
» And the universities will have to make
their own rules and regulations, don't

646
00:55:37,920 --> 00:55:43,440
they?
>> They can, but again, I would I would

647
00:55:41,200 --> 00:55:49,200
recommend that we engage them for their
input as well. Obviously, they do have a

648
00:55:45,680 --> 00:55:52,520
lot of students who who use these um you
know devices.

649
00:55:52,640 --> 00:56:00,400
» Uh thank you, mayor. It's e ebikes, e
scooters,

650
00:55:58,559 --> 00:56:04,200
electrical,
two wheelers, three-wheelers.

651
00:56:05,040 --> 00:56:15,119
First and foremost, the city is not it's
not our intent

652
00:56:11,040 --> 00:56:20,400
to hunts on these
tools that some people use to to go to

653
00:56:18,000 --> 00:56:24,640
go to work. Some of them use to go to
school and some of them use just to

654
00:56:21,839 --> 00:56:28,079
plagiarize. If I was a young youngster,
I'd definitely like to have him in. But

655
00:56:26,160 --> 00:56:34,880
there is a different there is a
discretion between an e scooter which

656
00:56:31,599 --> 00:56:40,559
basically go 20 miles per hour and an
ebike which some of them go 75 80 miles

657
00:56:38,480 --> 00:56:47,200
per hour.
So it's it's a little

658
00:56:43,920 --> 00:56:53,880
wiggle room in there. And the intent was
just to make the citizens aware of this

659
00:56:54,240 --> 00:57:05,359
influx of electrical use um tools,
bikes, you know, scooters

660
00:57:03,040 --> 00:57:09,839
and that was only intent was so that we
could be safe.

661
00:57:07,680 --> 00:57:14,559
If if you're riding along and you don't
know no rules, you don't use no rules.

662
00:57:12,319 --> 00:57:21,440
This is not the Ottoman.
So kids will use whatever rules

663
00:57:18,240 --> 00:57:26,640
that is posted and that was the justice.
We didn't have anything and when it

664
00:57:23,760 --> 00:57:31,359
started out so only six cities in South
Carolina months ago had any rules or

665
00:57:29,440 --> 00:57:36,079
regulation about ebike but since that
time

666
00:57:33,359 --> 00:57:42,640
many of them have jumped on board and
investigating how ebikes

667
00:57:38,880 --> 00:57:46,240
affects the daily lives of this city.
Some of them ride them in the malls. You

668
00:57:44,720 --> 00:57:48,640
didn't have no rule against it. What you
going to tell a person if you didn't

669
00:57:47,280 --> 00:57:54,160
have no rule?
>> Ride them in the parks, ride them

670
00:57:51,119 --> 00:57:57,839
wherever they want to ride. All it is is
that give them some rules and

671
00:57:56,240 --> 00:58:02,720
regulation. And that's what this
ordinance is all about. Giving rules of

672
00:58:00,480 --> 00:58:09,440
regulation. We can protect each other,
the rider and the non. So we go along

673
00:58:06,799 --> 00:58:13,760
with that. I just I'm happy to see them
and I know people can use them. I seen

674
00:58:11,599 --> 00:58:17,280
them riding from what we call they
change the name so many time rope

675
00:58:15,680 --> 00:58:23,040
hostana
>> electrolux western house whatever that

676
00:58:19,520 --> 00:58:30,079
plant is down on 33 they changes names
I've seen them riding from there

677
00:58:26,880 --> 00:58:34,960
40 50 year old people and then I also
see that same 40 50 year old people

678
00:58:32,000 --> 00:58:39,319
riding a scooter that's running 20 miles
an hour and some of them are supposedly

679
00:58:40,160 --> 00:58:49,200
made to ride 20 miles per hour 22 but
I've seen the scooter riding 35 and 40

680
00:58:45,280 --> 00:58:54,079
it is zigzag so we just want to make
our citizens aware [clears throat] of

681
00:58:50,720 --> 00:59:00,480
what's happening and just give a better
life livelihood

682
00:58:56,960 --> 00:59:05,040
so we all can live with each other and
don't be conflicted on each other and

683
00:59:02,160 --> 00:59:12,319
both of us know the rules
and we know that this ebike is uh the

684
00:59:09,920 --> 00:59:12,319
the chief

685
00:59:12,640 --> 00:59:18,240
Since you've been talking, I know there
have been some kind of collisions

686
00:59:15,520 --> 00:59:21,920
somewhere about ebike somewhere and you
can't stop collisions. You just have to

687
00:59:20,400 --> 00:59:25,920
make people more aware of it with, you
know, like wearing a helmet so they can

688
00:59:23,760 --> 00:59:29,920
protect yourself if there's collision,
riding on the right side of the highway.

689
00:59:28,079 --> 00:59:35,760
So, you know, put those restrictions in
order. That's all we ask. just have some

690
00:59:32,400 --> 00:59:39,920
kind of restrictions so that we can
better ourselves in Orangeburg and we

691
00:59:37,520 --> 00:59:45,359
can take the lead on knowing that we
have a town where people is safe to ride

692
00:59:42,880 --> 00:59:52,480
the electrical
motorized vehicles. Thank you, ma'am.

693
00:59:49,200 --> 00:59:56,880
» Okay. Any more discussions on this item?
If not, I'm going to read the proposed

694
00:59:54,079 --> 01:00:05,920
ordinance. Regulation of electric
scooters, electric assistant bicycles,

695
01:00:00,960 --> 01:00:12,040
electric micro mobility devices, party
bicycles,

696
01:00:07,440 --> 01:00:12,040
and shared mobility devices.

697
01:00:12,480 --> 01:00:18,880
We need a motion.
>> So move, mayor,

698
01:00:16,079 --> 01:00:22,559
» properly moved by Councilman Hannah.
>> Second.

699
01:00:19,440 --> 01:00:26,319
» Second by Councilman Kit. All in favor?
>> I

700
01:00:24,640 --> 01:00:32,000
I'm standing at the moment.
>> It's so How many is in favor? Ra Shane

701
01:00:29,520 --> 01:00:36,319
so I know.
>> Okay. One, two, three.

702
01:00:34,799 --> 01:00:39,119
» You in favor?
>> Okay.

703
01:00:37,440 --> 01:00:43,440
» You're in favor Jo.
>> Are you in favor?

704
01:00:40,880 --> 01:00:46,160
» Uh, not right now. Not as it stands.
>> It's one, two, three, four.

705
01:00:45,680 --> 01:00:48,160
» Four.
>> Yeah.

706
01:00:46,880 --> 01:00:51,920
» Four.
>> Three.

707
01:00:49,520 --> 01:00:56,319
» Motion is carried. [snorts] Eyes have.
Motion is carried.

708
01:00:54,960 --> 01:00:58,799
You said the motion.
>> Yeah, it's four.

709
01:00:57,440 --> 01:01:04,000
» Yeah, it's four of us.
>> Four of us. It's me,

710
01:01:00,880 --> 01:01:08,480
» Miss K and
>> Yes.

711
01:01:05,119 --> 01:01:13,520
» Scary. Okay. Thank you, Miss Evy.
>> Thank you, mayor.

712
01:01:09,760 --> 01:01:18,319
» Okay. Okay. Uh, you want me to start?
>> Yeah, I'm sorry. I'm just here. Uh on

713
01:01:15,599 --> 01:01:22,720
item number seven is a city council
determination of a grievance matter as

714
01:01:20,400 --> 01:01:29,520
relates to DPS.
On July the 23rd, 2026, the city

715
01:01:27,040 --> 01:01:36,160
grievance committee held a hearing
regarding Benjam Benjamin Jones and

716
01:01:32,880 --> 01:01:40,799
Battalion Chief Winningingham
and the five uh lieutenant promotion

717
01:01:38,960 --> 01:01:45,760
process.
Council has council has received and

718
01:01:43,280 --> 01:01:52,160
reviewed the grievance committee's
findings and recommendations.

719
01:01:48,720 --> 01:01:58,880
The committee recommended that the city
and department of public safety number

720
01:01:55,200 --> 01:02:04,079
one adopt a comprehensive written
promotional policy.

721
01:02:01,440 --> 01:02:11,839
clearly communicates the promotional
process, evaluation criteria and scoring

722
01:02:08,160 --> 01:02:18,799
methodology to all candidates. Number
three, establish a standard scoring

723
01:02:15,119 --> 01:02:26,480
system. Number four, ensure all
candidates receive the same information

724
01:02:21,839 --> 01:02:30,799
material in and time and timelines.
Number five, require candidates to

725
01:02:29,040 --> 01:02:34,640
acknowledge
their understanding of the promotional

726
01:02:33,119 --> 01:02:39,520
process.
Number six, maintain complete

727
01:02:37,359 --> 01:02:46,079
documentation of promotional and
selection selection process.

728
01:02:43,280 --> 01:02:50,799
The committee also recommended that DPS
consider

729
01:02:47,760 --> 01:02:55,440
re-administering the fire lieutenant
promotion process.

730
01:02:53,498 --> 01:03:00,559
[clears throat]
Is is there is there a motion at this

731
01:02:58,319 --> 01:03:05,040
time for city council to accept the
grievance committee's finding and

732
01:03:02,240 --> 01:03:11,119
approve approve all of it
recommendations with the exception of

733
01:03:07,680 --> 01:03:18,079
remministering the lieutenant uh
promotion process.

734
01:03:13,440 --> 01:03:23,280
Um, mayor and council, I u move that we
um conclude the grievance process by

735
01:03:20,240 --> 01:03:27,280
adopting the following. Um, as stated,
adopting a comprehensive written

736
01:03:25,119 --> 01:03:31,760
promotional policy, clearly
communicating the promotional process

737
01:03:29,599 --> 01:03:37,680
evaluation criteria and scoring
methodology to all candidates. Establish

738
01:03:34,720 --> 01:03:42,400
a standardized scoring system. Ensure
all candidates receive the same

739
01:03:39,680 --> 01:03:46,799
information, materials, and timelines.
require candidates to acknowledge their

740
01:03:44,400 --> 01:03:52,240
understanding of the promotional process
and maintain complete documentation of

741
01:03:49,359 --> 01:03:57,200
the promotional and selection process.
Again, I recommend that we um move to

742
01:03:54,559 --> 01:04:01,839
conclude the grievance process as stated
and direct any further matters to the

743
01:03:59,280 --> 01:04:04,400
city administrator to handle.
>> Motion has been made by Councilman

744
01:04:03,520 --> 01:04:06,960
Grievous.
>> Second.

745
01:04:04,960 --> 01:04:10,960
» Second by Councilman Hannah. All in
favor?

746
01:04:08,559 --> 01:04:18,160
» Eyes have it. oppose.
>> I uh six

747
01:04:14,000 --> 01:04:21,880
61 motion motion is carried.
>> Thank you.

748
01:04:18,640 --> 01:04:21,880
» Thank you, Mayor.

749
01:04:22,559 --> 01:04:27,079
» Mr. Holly, is there any DP?

750
01:04:28,000 --> 01:04:36,720
Mr. Mayor, members of council, thank
you. And uh first of all, I want to uh

751
01:04:34,079 --> 01:04:40,240
take the same opportunity as Mr. Evering
did and thank uh all of our team that

752
01:04:38,799 --> 01:04:46,240
worked on the budget. I have called
their names previously, but certainly uh

753
01:04:43,119 --> 01:04:52,480
this is uh a task that one person does
not do alone. It is certainly a team

754
01:04:48,079 --> 01:04:57,200
effort. Uh even uh Sydney and I and and
staff's uh our regular meeting on

755
01:04:54,640 --> 01:05:01,680
Tuesdays, we get together and we talk to
uh each other about the plans that we're

756
01:04:58,960 --> 01:05:07,760
making. So uh the teamwork uh flows
throughout. Uh certainly Daniel is here.

757
01:05:05,359 --> 01:05:12,640
uh he is uh largely responsible for
helping us put this together as well as

758
01:05:10,160 --> 01:05:16,240
our budget director uh along with the
other members of the team that are not

759
01:05:14,240 --> 01:05:20,960
here. So I want to say thank you to them
but I want to say thank you to city

760
01:05:18,240 --> 01:05:26,640
council because you endure and I I do
mean in boldface capital letters

761
01:05:24,000 --> 01:05:31,039
underlined endure countless hours of
meetings of us talking about these

762
01:05:28,480 --> 01:05:35,440
things and uh all the projects that
we're doing and the challenges that we

763
01:05:33,119 --> 01:05:39,680
face as a city. I thank you for your
time and your effort and and and uh

764
01:05:37,599 --> 01:05:47,520
dedication to this. So I want to commend
you on that. Having said all that, uh I

765
01:05:43,280 --> 01:05:52,799
committed to you that as uh we know more
about

766
01:05:49,200 --> 01:05:58,319
how our budget uh uh will uh end up the
the the amended ordinance. I will point

767
01:05:55,599 --> 01:06:05,520
out to you any changes that we've made.
And so you have at your your uh desk uh

768
01:06:02,480 --> 01:06:11,119
a highlighted version of the amendment
that we will ask you to make uh to the

769
01:06:08,319 --> 01:06:20,960
amended budget. Um and first of all I
want to point out uh where those changes

770
01:06:13,200 --> 01:06:23,960
are. We are uh projecting a uh 76 point
76,655,000

771
01:06:25,280 --> 01:06:35,119
uh instead of the $70,000
uh increase uh to cost of total sales.

772
01:06:31,599 --> 01:06:42,000
And so that uh increase will uh be about
approximately $7 million increase to our

773
01:06:38,480 --> 01:06:48,319
our uh cost of total sales. And then if
you flow down a little bit lower uh to

774
01:06:44,880 --> 01:06:56,640
the cont contributed capital uh you see
a uh change from 9.8 million to 11.5

775
01:06:53,200 --> 01:07:01,440
million uh in uh contributed capital
that is just uh more reflective of the

776
01:06:59,039 --> 01:07:06,480
grants that we have received to date. a
more updated version of how much money

777
01:07:03,680 --> 01:07:11,920
that we have uh that that has come into
us from the grants that we uh that we

778
01:07:09,039 --> 01:07:17,280
use to do a uh major projects that we've
uh applied for over the last several

779
01:07:13,520 --> 01:07:24,640
years. Um at the end of the day, the all
of that changes our net profit after

780
01:07:20,960 --> 01:07:32,160
transfer and contributions from 22.9
million to 17.6

781
01:07:27,920 --> 01:07:39,920
million. uh a net uh decrease of 5.3
million uh thereabout and I would ask

782
01:07:35,280 --> 01:07:45,119
council uh to make the amendment uh I
think you have one in front of you

783
01:07:41,520 --> 01:07:51,119
amendment that reflects the net profit
change uh from the 22.9 to the 17.6 Six.

784
01:07:49,599 --> 01:07:53,200
» Okay.
>> Number eight.

785
01:07:52,079 --> 01:07:57,280
» Number eight. Number eight.
>> Number Yes. Item eight.

786
01:07:54,799 --> 01:08:02,559
» Yeah. An amendment to the budget for the
operation of the Department of Public

787
01:07:59,520 --> 01:08:10,160
Utilities for the city of Orangeburg for
the fiscal year October 1st, 2025

788
01:08:06,640 --> 01:08:18,839
through September 30th, 2026
to revise the net profit after transfer

789
01:08:14,160 --> 01:08:18,839
and contributions from 22,943,057

790
01:08:21,600 --> 01:08:31,359
to 17,642.
2,57.

791
01:08:27,279 --> 01:08:34,960
» Motion has been made by Councilman Kit.
>> Second.

792
01:08:31,839 --> 01:08:40,560
» Second by Councilman Kn. All in favor?
>> I.

793
01:08:35,679 --> 01:08:43,520
» Any opposed? I have it. The motion's
eyes have the motion is carried. Thank

794
01:08:42,880 --> 01:08:49,279
you,
>> Mr. Mayor, members of council. Likewise,

795
01:08:46,000 --> 01:08:55,359
I want to point out on uh the projected
budget for 2026

796
01:08:51,679 --> 01:09:03,120
27. Um I want to point out one the
revenue hasn't changed, but we do have

797
01:08:58,560 --> 01:09:09,199
uh uh a change that we based on the the
uh impact fee adjustment that council

798
01:09:06,000 --> 01:09:13,679
has passed to this point and we'll have
uh third reading on after this. Uh we

799
01:09:11,679 --> 01:09:22,719
are revising our numbers that will
increase our uh final net profit after

800
01:09:18,000 --> 01:09:29,440
transfer and contributions by 660,000
uh from 16.8 million to 17.5 million.

801
01:09:27,279 --> 01:09:34,319
And I'd ask that you uh make that
amendment to reflect uh the changes.

802
01:09:32,080 --> 01:09:38,319
» Okay. Amendment number nine, an
amendment to the budget for the

803
01:09:36,080 --> 01:09:45,359
operation of the Department of Public
Utilities for the city of Orangeburg for

804
01:09:41,279 --> 01:09:52,719
the fiscal year October 1st, 2026
through September 30th, 2027

805
01:09:48,560 --> 01:09:57,320
to revise the net profit after transfer
and contributions from 16,887,396

806
01:09:59,440 --> 01:10:06,800
to 17,546.
7,396.

807
01:10:04,960 --> 01:10:12,080
» Okay. Motion has made been made by
Councilman Kit.

808
01:10:10,400 --> 01:10:15,120
» Do we hear the second?
>> Second.

809
01:10:12,800 --> 01:10:16,640
» Second by Councilman Grievous. All in
favor?

810
01:10:16,080 --> 01:10:19,199
» I.
>> Any opposed? Eyes have. The motion is

811
01:10:18,800 --> 01:10:23,440
carried.
>> Mr. Mayor. Um, pardon me. I should have

812
01:10:21,600 --> 01:10:27,280
got you after you made the amendments.
You now need to pass both ordinance as

813
01:10:26,480 --> 01:10:31,840
amended.
>> Okay. Okay. Okay.

814
01:10:30,239 --> 01:10:38,440
We'll read we'll read the ordinance.
>> Yeah, just read it as

815
01:10:34,800 --> 01:10:38,440
I I'll read it.

816
01:10:39,360 --> 01:10:42,840
Let me see this.

817
01:10:44,880 --> 01:10:51,679
Ordinance number eight, an ordinance to
amend the budget for the operation of

818
01:10:49,600 --> 01:10:56,880
the department of the public utility in
the city of Orangeburg, state of South

819
01:10:54,000 --> 01:11:04,080
Carolina for the fiscal year October 1,
2025 through o through September 30th,

820
01:11:01,199 --> 01:11:08,719
2026. We like to entertain a motion,
please

821
01:11:06,000 --> 01:11:13,440
move for approval of item number eight.
A motion been made by Councilman Ku,

822
01:11:10,880 --> 01:11:16,239
second by Councilman Kit. All in favor?
>> I.

823
01:11:14,000 --> 01:11:20,800
» Any opposed? Eyes have. The motion is
carried.

824
01:11:17,280 --> 01:11:26,159
» Item number nine, an ordinance to adopt
a budget from the operation of the

825
01:11:23,840 --> 01:11:32,560
Department of Public Utilities of the
City of Orangeburg, South Carolina for

826
01:11:28,719 --> 01:11:37,920
the fiscal year of October 1, 2026
through September

827
01:11:34,480 --> 01:11:45,920
30th, 2027. Adopt and amend electric
rates effective October 1, 2026.

828
01:11:41,840 --> 01:11:52,080
Adopt and amend water rates effective
October 1, 2026.

829
01:11:49,120 --> 01:11:56,320
Adopt and amend wastewater rates
effective October 1, 2026. We like to

830
01:11:55,199 --> 01:12:00,880
entertain a motion.
>> Move for the adoption.

831
01:11:57,760 --> 01:12:04,560
» Motion has been made by Council Kit.
>> Second motion. Second by Council Koo.

832
01:12:03,199 --> 01:12:07,600
All in favor?
>> I. eyes have. The motion is carried.

833
01:12:06,560 --> 01:12:11,199
Thank you,
>> Mr. Mayor, members of council. Item

834
01:12:09,280 --> 01:12:17,040
number 10 is the third reading of an
ordinance that would uh increase the

835
01:12:14,640 --> 01:12:21,360
impact fees for our water and wastewater
division. Uh there are no changes in

836
01:12:19,440 --> 01:12:27,360
that ordinance. At this time, I'd ask
you to uh make third and final approval.

837
01:12:25,679 --> 01:12:30,640
» Okay. Council, before I read this
ordinance, are there any discussions on

838
01:12:29,199 --> 01:12:33,520
item number 10?
>> Um uh Mr. Mayor.

839
01:12:32,320 --> 01:12:37,600
» Yes, sir.
I just want you to let the public know

840
01:12:35,440 --> 01:12:42,640
that this is not for the current
customers, right?

841
01:12:38,719 --> 01:12:47,520
» Yes, sir. Uh just uh as Dr. Koo uh uh
reminded us, Mr. Mayor, members of

842
01:12:44,480 --> 01:12:54,480
council, and people uh in the public, uh
the increase in impact fees will impact

843
01:12:52,000 --> 01:13:02,400
those customers who are new to the
system. So existing customers who are

844
01:12:58,000 --> 01:13:07,280
not building new uh facilities, new uh
uh buildings, new homes, they would not

845
01:13:04,560 --> 01:13:12,800
be impacted. It is for customers that
are coming onto the system so that they

846
01:13:09,520 --> 01:13:17,760
can carry their fair share of the uh
burden that it costs the citizens and

847
01:13:15,199 --> 01:13:21,320
the community to provide water and
wastewater services.

848
01:13:21,360 --> 01:13:27,280
» Are there any more discussions on on
item number 10?

849
01:13:25,440 --> 01:13:35,280
Okay. If not, I want to read the
ordinance. An ordinance amended section

850
01:13:30,159 --> 01:13:42,400
number four five four uh department of
installation

851
01:13:36,960 --> 01:13:49,920
sub session water impact fees sub
session D wastewater impact fees of the

852
01:13:47,840 --> 01:13:54,239
general terms and conditions of
department of public utilities.

853
01:13:52,880 --> 01:13:59,280
» Okay. would like to entertain a motion.
>> Mayor, councel, I move for the adoption

854
01:13:55,920 --> 01:14:02,480
of the ordinance amending session four.
>> Um motion's been made by Councilman Kit.

855
01:14:01,920 --> 01:14:05,280
» Second.
>> Second by Councilman Hannah. All in

856
01:14:04,080 --> 01:14:07,760
favor?
>> Any oppose? Eyes have. The motion is

857
01:14:07,360 --> 01:14:13,320
carried.
>> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Council

858
01:14:09,360 --> 01:14:13,320
» and thank you, Mr. Har.

859
01:14:13,840 --> 01:14:21,920
» Okay. At this time, we are getting ready
to go into an executive session. We will

860
01:14:19,199 --> 01:14:27,120
discuss item number 11 in the executive
session. Discussion of matters relating

861
01:14:24,080 --> 01:14:33,920
to the proposed location expansion of
the provision of service encouraging the

862
01:14:30,000 --> 01:14:40,000
location of expansion of industrials and
other businesses in the area served by

863
01:14:37,199 --> 01:14:43,560
the public body South Carolina code
section 347A

864
01:14:43,679 --> 01:14:51,600
5 project Russell. We're going to we're
going to entertain a motion to go into

865
01:14:48,800 --> 01:14:54,560
executive session.
going to do that just to say your

866
01:14:53,840 --> 01:14:58,239
statement.
>> We miss kit want to have personal

867
01:14:56,159 --> 01:15:04,000
privilege just for one minute please.
>> Before we go into session I want to

868
01:15:00,400 --> 01:15:09,520
again thank the our administrator
the department of each department

869
01:15:07,360 --> 01:15:16,400
chairpersons
all of department of public utilities

870
01:15:12,320 --> 01:15:21,199
the chair all of you and the times of
democrat for the articles. Yes, the

871
01:15:19,199 --> 01:15:27,520
» the beautiful articles that have been
put in the newspaper con um talking

872
01:15:24,960 --> 01:15:34,719
about what we are doing and to the
audience we thank you for coming. We

873
01:15:31,520 --> 01:15:42,239
appreciate having you here and we want
to say to you, we're working as hard as

874
01:15:38,159 --> 01:15:48,239
we can and goodness knows we are moving
ahead. So, thank you so much. Keep

875
01:15:45,199 --> 01:15:53,840
coming to see us and we will work for
you. Thank you. Now go ahead. [applause]

876
01:15:51,440 --> 01:15:57,679
» Amen. All right. We'd like to entertain
a motion to go into executive session.

877
01:15:56,800 --> 01:16:00,960
» So move
>> properly moved by Councilman uh

878
01:15:59,520 --> 01:16:06,080
Grievous. Second.
>> Second by Councilman KN. All in favor? I

879
01:16:04,080 --> 01:16:09,400
have the most good night and have a safe
trip home.