[0:02] Good evening everyone. >> Let us bow our heads please.

[0:07] Most holy and everlasting God our father, we thank you for your many

[0:10] blessings that you have bestowed upon us. Thank you for all that you have done

[0:14] for us this day. And we ask you to continue to bless our city. Bless us.

[0:18] Keep us strong, focused. In your name we pray. Amen.

[0:23] » Amen. >> Amen.

[0:25] We we're so happy to see everybody that join us on tonight and we're happy to

[0:29] see those that join us virtually. Welcome to city council.

[0:35] Our first item is consideration of August 18, 2026

[0:40] city council minutes. >> Men council, I move for the adoption of

[0:45] the minutes. >> Motion has been made by Councilman Kit.

[0:49] » Second. >> Second by Councilman KN. All in favor?

[0:52] » I. >> Any oppose? Eyes have it. The motion is

[0:55] carried. Our next item is recognition of

[0:59] September community of character trait and the trait is reliance. Reliance is

[1:06] the ability to adopt well and bounce back after facing stress, hardship, and

[1:14] trauma. We're going to ask everybody to please uh adopt this community character

[1:20] trait.

[1:24] » Resilience, I'm sorry. Resilience. We have an appearance tonight by Mr. and

[1:30] Mrs. Randy Connor and Miss Shauna Curry, the Cinema Special Events Order. And

[1:39] we're going to ask you if you would come to the podium, state your name and your

[1:43] address, please.

[1:55] Hello. My name is Chen Curry. >> And don't forget we have five minutes.

[2:00] Five minutes, you know, to speak. >> Okay.

[2:03] » Yes. Yes, ma'am. Come on. How y'all doing?

[2:05] » Great. How are you? >> Good. Good.

[2:06] » All right. >> And my name is Randy Connor.

[2:09] » Uhhuh. >> Georgia Connor. Yeah. Okay.

[2:17] » Okay. So, we actually um is here on behalf of the cinema like you mentioned

[2:23] um in regards to the audience that has now changed to 12:00 p.m. Um and we were

[2:31] wondering um if it could be back the time it was, which was 2:00

[2:37] um a.m. Well, everybody out by 2:00 a.m. Um we actually have a venue hall um and

[2:45] a lot of people that do have weddings, parties, we sponsor a lot with the

[2:50] colleges both state and claflin. Um and that time is just not allowing for as

[2:55] far as business-wise um with us um actually being beneficial

[3:01] from the business. >> Okay. Now you're speaking on behalf of

[3:05] the cinema. >> Yes.

[3:06] » Also okay. >> Yes. These are my parents.

[3:08] » Okay. Okay. Yes, sir.

[3:12] » Well, first of all, I want to commend you all for all your hard work.

[3:15] » Yeah. Thank you. >> But I wanted to talk to you all

[3:17] concerning the coordinates because not does it only

[3:22] affect our business, we have eight other families that we pay that is on our

[3:27] payroll that it's affecting when we can't uh run to 2:00 in the morning

[3:33] because a lot of the college students that uh come here, they're here only for

[3:38] a short while. our record. We've been here uh running

[3:44] this cinema now for about four years. >> You all can say there has not been any

[3:49] incident at our establishment. Um our track record speak for itself

[3:56] and I didn't understand by us and our record and if uh Chief

[4:02] Austin is here was here I don't know if he's here or not.

[4:06] Uh we are always transparent with him when we have big events. We call him up.

[4:12] We talk to him. We are proactive about everything that we can so we can protect

[4:17] these young ones that their parents had sent here to be in our town in

[4:21] Orangeburg. So we do everything that we can for security talking to Chief

[4:25] Austin. We make sure the these young ones are

[4:30] well looked after. We make sure security is there. If they c if they can't

[4:35] provide it, my wife provides it because we want to make sure when they come here

[4:41] or come to our establishment, they go home safely. Now, we're not God. We

[4:45] can't prevent unforeseen occurrences. And I'll use for instant and it's not

[4:51] the time state had it incident. It wasn't 2 o'clock in the morning. It was

[4:55] during the day. I mean, Patel had his incident. It

[5:00] wasn't 2 o'clock in the morning. So time is not because what happened at 2

[5:04] o'clock in the morning can't happen 2 o'clock in the day. All we can do as

[5:08] individuals is try to protect those who are at our establishment and we do the

[5:13] best we can with the assistance of the uh city police and chief Austin. Thank

[5:19] you for helping us with all you do. Um so we do everything that we can. I don't

[5:24] understand where or it came or why we have been uh drafted into this because

[5:32] at first we were told when we went down that we were with uh the same as the uh

[5:37] the social clubs and things like that. They're back open to 2 in the morning

[5:43] but then they said no cinema you fall under a different they put us in the

[5:47] park and recreation. I don't know if it's one thing I learned

[5:51] about rules and laws. It's [clears throat] because somebody

[5:55] came up with their opinion. They spoke to the right person and they

[6:01] talked to enough people. They made it a rule or a law and they don't think about

[6:06] who it affects. Our establishment as is a place that is

[6:11] doesn't bother the neighbors. Y'all don't have complaints from neighbors

[6:15] calling. All the crowd is this or this and that. uh because we know what the

[6:21] requirements is. Young ones come here a lot of them help pay for their colleges

[6:28] by having these event literally I've talked with them you know

[6:34] Mr. Conor, when I have this event, this helped me pay for my books.

[6:38] » Or it also, we can look at it this way, it trains them

[6:43] » because a lot of them move off to become big promoters in other states. When they

[6:47] start on a small environment like they are with us,

[6:52] » we're training them. So when we tell them that, oh, or our city is trying to

[6:57] tell them and oh, you can't do it. you got to um because of a small criteria

[7:03] that have been set into place that doesn't make sense to me.

[7:07] » Like I said, I'm not a college ready graduate, but I have common sense. Make

[7:10] it make sense to me. >> Make it tell me why is it set at two?

[7:15] Crime don't stop at 11:59. Chief Austin, I tell you that. But we can prevent what

[7:21] happened out of our establishment when they're there. Now, what people do after

[7:24] they leave our establish, not on us. We can only do the best we can to make

[7:30] sure while they're there that we take care of them.

[7:33] » And uh >> look at our track record. It speaks for

[7:37] itself. We've been there four years. I mean, you know, unless you all want

[7:40] another empty building because we got to make the payments on that building. you

[7:43] all. My wife had to give people back individuals their money back uh this

[7:49] last month because that crowd don't come in till 11:30

[7:56] » and that's affecting how I provide for my family, my wife and I. Like I said,

[8:01] we have other eight other people on our payroll. But all I'm saying is please

[8:06] reconsider it because it is not only affecting our livelihood is affecting

[8:10] we're in a college town. We have to make and I'm sorry you all I thought I turned

[8:14] this on. >> Mr. Connor, let me say this to you

[8:17] before uh your time ran out. >> Yes. [snorts]

[8:20] » Um changing the the rules of of of that time it it it requires a lot of

[8:27] dynamics, but we will take what you're saying on advisement and we'll bring all

[8:32] the appropriate people into into the table and and discuss it.

[8:36] » Okay. >> Yes, sir.

[8:39] » Okay. Are there any [clears throat] It may be some questions from the council

[8:42] members.

[8:46] » Uh thank you, mayor. You mentioned something about two different

[8:51] classification, a social club. I didn't hear you right.

[8:54] » Yeah. At first, we were considered under the classification with the social club.

[9:00] Matter of fact, I think Chief Austin, if you correct me, at first they were

[9:04] shutting everybody down at 11:59. But then by them being under the state

[9:10] regulation, then they can't be shut down because their criteria is different. But

[9:16] we were cons we were considered to be under them. But after they were able to

[9:21] go back to two, they moved us over into the park and recreation under park and

[9:26] recreation, which I don't understand. And that's another thing. 45 days for

[9:31] these young ones that is only here for a short time to get a uh

[9:36] » permit, a temporary business license. I go down to the highway department and

[9:42] get my driver's life. I got the right criter criteria. I get it that day. If I

[9:47] want to buy a house, it don't take me 45 days. If I got everything in line, I

[9:51] meet the I meet the criteria. So if they meet the criteria, why is it 45? the

[9:56] other lawyers, you just rather tell them I don't want you to have your event been

[9:59] here in Orangeburg. That's what I'm gathering from it.

[10:01] » Second part, please. >> Yes.

[10:08] » It's just hard for me to understand. It's two different socialist.

[10:12] » Well, listen to me. Listen, listen to the question, please.

[10:14] » Yes. >> Are there other businesses that are open

[10:18] after the hour of what you speaking of?

[10:24] » Everybody Everybody's gone at that time. cuz you're saying there's some social

[10:27] clubs somewhere open. >> Social social bars, I guess, like clubs.

[10:33] » Yes. >> Oh, priv. Now I got you. Private clubs.

[10:37] » Yes. >> Okay. Okay. Thank you, sir.

[10:40] » But if they're renting from us, would it be considered that they're probably

[10:44] having an event? >> Right. Why can't it be private?

[10:46] » Well, we we we need to take that under advisement with the whole entire council

[10:51] and everybody. We can't answer you now, but we will take it on advisement and

[10:55] get back with you. >> Yes, sir.

[10:57] » Okay. >> And Dr. Clue has a question for you.

[11:00] » Yes, sir. >> When did you receive the notice?

[11:04] » This been this has been in >> they said two years now.

[11:08] » Two years. But uh we have been uh >> operating because uh we have someone who

[11:16] was understanding we're allowing us to go a little longer but we went and got

[11:20] permission. We just didn't do it. We went and got permission and they allowed

[11:24] us to run past the 12. >> Before then, how many incidents have

[11:31] you, you know, has occurred in your facility? How many?

[11:35] » No incidents. >> None.

[11:37] » None. >> And there's no police report.

[11:40] » Not that other than uh Chief might have had to come out there one time. Somebody

[11:45] was breaking in cars, but >> not in our establishment. Not for

[11:50] violence. None. >> Okay. Thank you.

[11:54] » Thank you, sir. >> All right.

[11:55] » And we'll get back with you, sir. >> All right.

[11:57] » Yes, sir. >> Yes, sir.

[11:58] » Thank you. >> We have another appearance from Miss

[12:03] Desiree Ross, the Ross Center, Special Events Ordinance.

[12:08] » Good afternoon. >> Good afternoon.

[12:11] » Uh, I'm coming on the same subject. Um, and I've typed it down so I can stay on

[12:17] track. Um, mayor, Councilman, Chief Austin, of course. U, my name is Desiree

[12:24] Ross and my husband and I, we own the Ross Center on Russell Street. The

[12:28] location is 1535 Russell Street, right next to the old bowling alley where they

[12:32] all revamp and everything. My husband and I have been taxpayers through

[12:37] multiple businesses in the city of Orangeburg, and the Raw Center is one of

[12:41] our longest businesses that we've been paying taxes on, almost 18 years.

[12:46] And so we've worked hard to maintain a great reputation and operate very

[12:51] responsible. I don't want no issues in the building or in the parking lot. I'm

[12:56] here respectfully to ask the council to consider the ordinance requiring events

[13:00] and venues like the Raw Center that now have to end by 11:59 sharp. You have to

[13:06] be out, cleaning included. I understand the city's concerns about

[13:12] noise, alcohol, crowds, safety. Of course, number one,

[13:18] I'm not asking to remove those concerns and protections. I'm asking you to give

[13:22] a responsible business that follow the rules and responsible opportunity to

[13:28] operate a little later. And I've met with the city and public

[13:33] safety. They have reviewed my contract and the requirements I place on anybody

[13:39] that rents my facility. My contract is strict and I enforce it

[13:43] to the fullest. I'm proactive about security. We have

[13:49] cameras inside and outside the facility. If I see that something is not going

[13:54] well, I will call public safety myself to just get somebody to drive through

[13:58] the parking lot because the crowd might not look as pleasant.

[14:03] The 1159 restriction is are is hurting our ability to compete with other venues

[14:09] that are not in the city. We're competing with venues outside the city

[14:14] limits or in the county where advanced hours are not as restricted or monitored

[14:22] as such as in the city. If customer can celebrate later

[14:28] somewhere else, guess where they going to go? Somewhere else.

[14:32] And so that means I lose revenue, me and my husband, but the city loses revenue

[14:38] too because I can't pay the taxes if I'm not making the money.

[14:43] Think about a 40th, 50th, even a 60th birthday party, anniversary, wedding

[14:49] reception. Adults aren't necessarily trying to party until 2, 3:00 in the

[14:54] morning. They just may be simply celebrating

[14:59] until midnight, then clean up and be out by 1 or even a little bit later. I

[15:05] experienced this myself. I had a 60th birthday party on August the 8th at my

[15:10] own building. I'm not going to pay for another building if I got one.

[15:14] [laughter] But even in my own building, during my

[15:17] party, my own birthday party, I felt rushed because I was watching the clock

[15:21] and trying to get out by what time? 11:59.

[15:26] Now, my event was non-alcoholic. We had fun. We had dancing. We had honorary to

[15:32] me for ministry aspects, but I was still watching the clock. I don't want to get

[15:37] in trouble in my own building. Okay? But I'm asking the council to consider

[15:43] responsible compliant event venues to operate to at least one:00. Put

[15:48] reasonable safeguards on it. Require security when appropriate. require

[15:52] compliance with noise noise ordinance and public safety. And if a venue does

[15:57] not follow these requirements, take the time away.

[16:03] Then I'm also asking that you distinguish the event time from the

[16:07] cleaning time. So, if an event is until 1:00, give them the extra hour to clean

[16:13] up the facility for the people that own the facility so it can be brought to the

[16:18] original condition because if not, it causes threats on the owners.

[16:23] » I'm also asking I'm not asking to be a nightclub, a bar. I'm asking a fair

[16:31] opportunity to operate a legitimate small business, pay the property taxes

[16:37] like I'm supposed to, pay the business expenses like I'm supposed to, maintain

[16:42] my building, but I have to generate revenue in order to continue to do that.

[16:47] I don't want the RAW center to become another empty building on Russell

[16:52] Street. I want to continue maintaining it,

[16:56] paying taxes, and contributing to this awesome city. So, I'm respectfully

[17:01] asking the council to review the ordinance that was placed after CO

[17:07] and give responsible venues and follow the rules an opportunity to operate to

[17:12] at least 1:00 um with a reasonable safeguard and

[17:16] cleanup time. Give those that who follow the rules a fair opportunity to compete.

[17:23] survive and continue in this great city. >> That's me.

[17:28] » Thank you. >> You're welcome.

[17:29] » Maybe someone have questions. Dr. Clue. >> Dr.

[17:32] » Yeah. Thank you for the presentation. I will ask you the same question that I

[17:37] asked the other gentlemen. When did you receive the notice?

[17:41] » I never received the notice. It was brought to me through public safety.

[17:45] » Okay. Uh how many citations have you received on that building?

[17:49] » Zero. >> Thank you, ma'am.

[17:51] » Yes, sir. Any more questions? >> Uh, hold on.

[17:58] » I may have a question maybe directed towards Mr. Evering. When was this

[18:00] change? You said about two years ago, >> I believe. So, yes, sir. I'm not on the

[18:05] perfect time, but that's what I heard. >> Approximately two years ago. Do we have

[18:08] some type of problems that were that [clears throat] we changed it?

[18:14] » I'm going to have to look into that. I don't recall right off hand when it was

[18:18] changed. might have been changed before I got

[18:20] here. >> It was changed before you got here.

[18:22] » Yeah, I think so. >> We had a lot of homicides, fighting,

[18:26] killing, shooting all of Columbia Road. And um and and what happened is that

[18:34] when public safety would go out there, >> especially somebody got killed, they

[18:38] would have to work from that time. If it happened at 11:00, they had to work from

[18:42] 11 to 6 in the morning to kind of get all the evidence and whatever all they

[18:47] do. >> Yes, sir. and and that was and we had a

[18:51] lot of cases coming that if y'all can remember during that time and that's

[18:55] when it came you we recommend to us that we change the time so that they if

[19:00] something happened that give them time to work the case and get the evidence

[19:03] and bring it back in to us. We had a lot there was a lot going on at that

[19:07] particular time. It's been it's been more than two it's been a while back

[19:11] » that we Yeah. >> I don't know. But uh but we we we're

[19:15] taking this under advis under advisement because we do need the business in this

[19:19] city and we're listening to you. Okay. >> You all you all and we'll we'll discuss

[19:24] it among ourselves and we'll get back with you all.

[19:27] » Thank you so much. Okay. Mayor Butler C. Oh.

[19:30] » Yes sir. >> Mr. Thank you, Mayor. 11:59 is the time

[19:36] uh you all have to be out of >> everybody clean up included. Yes, sir.

[19:42] What time can you go in? You gave me an ending time. What time can you go in?

[19:46] » Well, at my event, they can go in at 8:00. I do daily rentals only. And so

[19:51] that way they can set up at their leisure. Most events start at 6 or 7,

[19:56] but people are really stressing out because if you start a party, you start

[20:00] dancing, you got some old school music going. You know how it is. You want to

[20:04] hang around and and and you want to have a great time with your birthday, but you

[20:09] know 11:59 including cleaning up is very difficult for 30,000 size building. They

[20:15] have to mop everything and get every So basically I tell them they have to be

[20:19] out by 11:30 because I don't want to be penalized for anything.

[20:22] » And if you're up in age, you don't want to be longer than 11:00 or 11:30.

[20:29] » Thank you. >> Did I answer your question, sir? I'm

[20:31] sorry. I'm saying 11 11:59 this what time you start you know have these day

[20:36] parties and all those good things now >> you got something

[20:38] » but I I understand your >> where your place at you know lifestyle

[20:44] have changed >> you know lifestyle has changed we used

[20:47] to go home at 12:00 >> right

[20:50] » now they don't come out until whatever time

[20:53] » right >> oh not in my event [laughter] not in my

[20:56] place >> thank you ma'am

[20:58] » anyone else nothing else but we will take it under consideration and I'm sure

[21:03] we'll get back with you as soon as possible.

[21:06] » Thank you. >> We have some people standing up. There's

[21:10] some seats over here by Jean Jean newspaper and there some seats right

[21:16] here on the front by Chief Austin if y'all need to come and sit down. Some

[21:20] people stand up there. She has a cane and she needs to

[21:28] chief. I don't mean for you to go in the back. We might we need you up here.

[21:32] [laughter]

[21:34] Yeah. So, okay. Thank you very much for

[21:43] old business, Mr. Eye.

[21:48] » Good evening, Mayor and Council. >> Good evening. Good evening.

[21:52] The first item in old business that we have for your consideration is third

[21:55] reading of an ordinance amending the budget for the city of Orangeburg for

[21:59] the fiscal year October 1, 2025 through September 30th, 2026.

[22:06] Uh there is one uh substantial change that I want to bring to your attention.

[22:11] Um so for the first reading we had the amended the current I meant the

[22:16] estimated amended budget at 23,79,310.

[22:22] Uh for this reading we've added $6 million to that and that is $6 million

[22:26] in grant funds and that is the the only difference. So, um, it would take that,

[22:33] uh, amended amount to 29,719

[22:38] thou, I'm sorry, 29,719,37.

[22:42] Uh, as far as our uh, budget to actual, we're still tracking uh, as of last

[22:49] week, we're at 80% of budget with about a month left. So, we do anticipate

[22:54] coming in under budget, but I did want to bring that uh difference point that

[22:59] difference out to you. Again, that's just $6 million in grant funds.

[23:04] » Okay. >> Can you uh clarify um or add elaborate a

[23:10] bit on the $6 million? You're saying that's um grant funds that were

[23:16] uh utilized or grant funds received? I think it was re received. Is it correct?

[23:25] » But budgeted, not used. >> Budgeted but not

[23:27] » but not used. Yeah, >> but not used. Thank you for the

[23:30] clarification.

[23:33] » Those were grants we applied for and received.

[23:38] » Budgeted for not.

[23:44] » Are there any more questions, concerns? I was going to ask the same question she

[23:50] asked. >> Good.

[23:52] » Okay. All right. If not, I would like to read this ordinance, please. An

[23:57] ordinance amending the budget for the city of Orangeburg, South Carolina for

[24:03] the fiscal year beginning October 1, 2025 and ending September 30th, 2026. We

[24:10] would like to entertain a motion. >> So move properly moved by Councilman

[24:16] Grievous. Second. >> Second by Councilman Kit. All in favor?

[24:20] » I. >> Any opposed? Eyes have it. The motion is

[24:23] carried. >> Okay. Item number three.

[24:27] » Thank you, Mayor Council. Item number three, uh, for your consideration is

[24:31] third reading of an ordinance adopting the budget for the city of Orangeburg

[24:35] for the fiscal year October 1, 2026 through September 30th, 2027.

[24:41] establishing the Hillcrest Golf Course Enterprise Fund and renaming the service

[24:46] department as a maintenance department with some additional restructuring. Uh

[24:50] before I begin, I want to take a moment to recognize and thank all of our

[24:56] directors. Um I think most of whom are here uh with us e this evening. uh as

[25:02] you know going through the budget process is a very detailed I would

[25:07] almost say arduous process but it's something that is uh that we take very

[25:12] seriously and I want to commend our directors um Mishka Williams

[25:18] » ask y'all to stand our directors y'all stand up so we can clap our hands for

[25:22] you >> Williams is the finance coordinator

[25:25] [clears throat] >> Mr. Roger Brandt, he's over at the

[25:28] service department. Of course, Chief Austin over the Department of Public

[25:31] Safety. We have Marty Con who's the interimm uh parks and recreation

[25:37] director and David Upton who's over our public works department. So, they all

[25:41] worked extremely hard meeting constantly and hours and hours to try to put the

[25:48] best uh budget possible forth for your consideration. So I I do want to thank

[25:52] and acknowledge that Teresa Williams who's our assistant city administrator

[25:58] who and HR director. So uh please join me in thanking

[26:01] » Can we throw Daniel in there? Daniel right there.

[26:04] » Oh yes, Daniel is [laughter] the one I apologize Daniel. You so quiet.

[26:11] » Stand up Daniel. So Daniel, please stand up. Uh Daniel Driggers who did all all

[26:15] the budget coordinators. [applause] >> Thank you all. and Clay Clay back there.

[26:20] He's unassuming with it. >> Yes, sir.

[26:23] » So, I I just cannot thank them enough for for all their hard work. Um and so I

[26:29] appreciate you guys. Thank you.

[26:34] » So, um do want to just remind council of some of the highlights of of this um

[26:43] budget that we're proposing. Um, let me get my

[26:49] numbers here together. So, we have uh a general fund uh proposed budget revenue

[26:57] and expenses in the amount of 26 million uh 376,756.

[27:04] Uh this would include um a oper fund transfer operate

[27:13] amount of $1.9 million. Uh we would use these funds to help cover uh cost. As

[27:20] you might recall, we originally um recommended uh transition closing the

[27:27] forensics lab and also a 10 mil increase which would have uh brought in about

[27:33] $400 to $450,000 that we were going to use uh for capital

[27:38] improvements for DPS. But this um this $1.9 million is a one-time

[27:44] non-reoccurring uh transfer that will uh help cover

[27:51] those uh costs and um but I will again emphasize that it's

[27:58] non-reoccurring and and so uh we will need to either uh find ways to continue

[28:07] to cut expenses or expand the tax base tax revenue uh to make sure that we can

[28:13] provide citizens with the services that they currently expect. Um

[28:19] we are not recommending uh any new debt uh for 2027. Uh business license rates

[28:28] remain unchanged. Um we do we have set aside some funds for the update to our

[28:34] comprehensive plan which is required every 10 years. Um, we have included

[28:40] funding in there for uh the employee compensation program. Um,

[28:47] we have included $38,000 for a kennel for rescue animals. Again, $400,000 for

[28:54] patrol vehicles and equipment. Uh, $74,000 for safety equipment. $800,000

[29:01] to refurbish two fire engines. uh $220,000 to replace a graffle truck.

[29:09] Um $100,000 to replace HVAC uh

[29:16] equipment in this building and in Stevenson auditorium. So again, we would

[29:22] recommend transferring the ARPA funds. Now that that will eliminate uh funding

[29:28] available to fund some of those projects that were uh listed in ARPA. So I want

[29:33] to be clear on that. We would have to find other funding sources to

[29:38] uh to do those projects. Um but as it stands now, our recommendation would be

[29:44] to transfer those funds uh to not increase the millillage and keep the

[29:49] millage at 109 mills. >> Okay. Okay, sir.

[29:58] » Thank you, Sydney.

[30:02] I need to go back. I'm glad that we're [clears throat] not

[30:06] increasing the the rate, you know, the tax on the people, but I need to go back

[30:12] to to the audit that was done by the agency.

[30:20] As we move into this new budget for the new fiscal year,

[30:28] I will implore you and your department to try very hard

[30:34] to see that we have a CFO. >> Yes,

[30:38] » we need to have a CFO who will track our expenses,

[30:44] our revenue and uh let us know how we are doing

[30:49] financially. We need to have a CFO. >> Then second thing is the hill crest is

[30:58] like a nagging headache. Mhm. >> We need to put our foot down on that

[31:05] hill crest and find a thorough solution, you know,

[31:10] with our partnership with our state to make sure that it's a viable

[31:19] uh program for the city.

[31:24] So CFO and um Hillrest

[31:31] and we need to go back to that audit that we did in in terms of consolidation

[31:36] because that was one of the proposals. >> So we need to look around and see how we

[31:42] can combine certain things [snorts] >> if it's possible

[31:47] you know because the more you have the more expenses.

[31:52] So we need to redirect you know what we do financially because

[31:59] when we look at our population is a growing population

[32:04] and most of the uh folks either Medicare or

[32:11] retired you know so we cannot keep imposing and

[32:17] that's what I said I'm glad we did not increase you know the the millillage

[32:22] And so we have to find a way to buffer the zone. We have to find a way really

[32:28] good, you know, uh because there limits somebody can take with, you know, the

[32:34] job unemployment rate is kind of a little bit high in the, you know, in the

[32:39] city of Orangeburg and also in the county. So let's try very hard as we

[32:45] move in into this new fiscal year to see that we make a lot of changes

[32:51] » that will be beneficial to us. >> Yes, sir. If I can speak to a couple of

[32:55] those um issues that you you raised. So so CFO as you all know we we've hired a

[33:00] a consulting firm that a search firm that we've been working with to find a

[33:05] CFO. Uh CFO is for a local government is probably one of the most difficult

[33:10] positions to fill. It's a very um niche skill set if you will. Uh it is

[33:18] extremely difficult to find a a a qualified uh experienced candidate. And

[33:25] so again, we we are working with the consultant. They're engaged in that

[33:29] process as we speak. Uh they are interviewing uh doing preliminary

[33:34] interviewing and to identify candidates, finalists

[33:39] for us to consider. So we are actively uh engaged in that process. As far as

[33:46] Hillrest is concerned, um yes sir, we we certainly uh know that Hillrest has has

[33:54] been an issue. Uh but quite frankly, the investment in Hillrest has has been less

[34:00] than what it it should have been over the years. Uh we entered into a new

[34:04] agreement with South Carolina State a year or so ago. Uh, as a reminder, that

[34:08] agreement does allow the city to um to terminate that agreement if there are

[34:14] two years of uh losses uh at Hillrest. Um we uh have set aside South Carolina

[34:22] State gave us $700,000 that we're using to do the top tracer uh facility at

[34:29] Hillrest that's in the process of being constructed uh as we speak. We expect

[34:33] that to be a significant revenue generator. Uh you all set aside u $2.2

[34:40] million in capital project sales tax taxes that uh can be used for

[34:47] improvements to Hillrest. So we believe that once those significant investments

[34:54] are made in Hillrest and we can improve the facility uh that the usage will

[35:00] increase and revenue thereby will increase because we realize the

[35:04] important asset that it is to the entire entire community and has been for years.

[35:10] Um but again if if it turns out that the there are losses we have the option to

[35:18] get out of the agreement. >> Thank you.

[35:24] » Any more? Go ahead. >> Yeah. Just a um couple of questions and

[35:28] clarifications. I want to start with the last thing that you said in terms of we

[35:32] set aside $2 million um for improvements to Hillrest through the um penny tax.

[35:38] Correct. Yes. But that was something that was voted on by the public, right?

[35:41] So it wasn't something that we set aside.

[35:44] » That that's a better way to put it. Yes. >> So I do want to um make sure that we're

[35:47] aware that the public had input in that decision as well. Um in terms of the

[35:52] surplus for the anticipated surplus for this um year and do we anticipate a

[36:01] surplus for this coming year? I know it's hard to look ahead, but um with the

[36:07] way that the budget is allocated, are we working towards um seeing a surplus in

[36:13] this budget for 2627? >> That that is always the goal.

[36:18] » Um and as you said, it's it's difficult to to predict that because any anything

[36:23] can come up. Um but yes, we we are trying to budget accordingly to to make

[36:29] sure that we have um and do all that we can just like we did this past year. Uh

[36:35] I commend our directors again for being very uh mindful of of spending of trying

[36:41] to um find revenue generating um activities that can be done and which

[36:49] has allowed us to be again about 80% of our budget this year. Uh so it it's

[36:55] difficult to to answer your question in affirmative because I just cannot

[36:59] predict the future. Um but we certainly will do all we can

[37:04] » and if there is a surplus where do those funds go?

[37:07] » Our reserves to to make sure that we have build up the reserves.

[37:11] » And what are the reserves used for exactly?

[37:14] » Just that [laughter] just reserves. Can you kind of

[37:17] » just just in case something happens, we get a a bad storm or or what have you?

[37:23] Um it's it's just for a rainy day, so to speak.

[37:28] » Thank you. >> Any more questions? Any more concerns?

[37:36] » Okay, I'm going to read the ordinance. An ordinance approving the budget for

[37:41] the city of Orangeburg, South Carolina for the fiscal year beginning October 1,

[37:46] 2026 ending September 30, 2027, establishing the Hillrest Golf Course

[37:52] Enterprise Fund and renaming the service department as the maintenance

[37:58] department.

[38:02] the motion. [clears throat]

[38:06] Mayor and Council, I move to adopt the ordinance approving the budget for the

[38:11] city of Orangeburg, South Carolina for the fiscal year beginning October 1st,

[38:17] 2026 and ending September 30th, 2027,

[38:22] establishing the Hillrest Golf Course Enterprise Fund and renaming the service

[38:28] department as the maintenance department.

[38:31] » Motion's been made by Councilman Kit.

[38:36] Do we have a second? Second by councilman Koo. All in favor?

[38:41] » I oppose. Eyes have it. The motion is carried. One one opposed. [snorts]

[38:50] Okay. Item number four.

[39:00] » Good evening, Baron Council. >> Good evening. Good evening.

[39:06] Uh item number four under old business is uh third reading of the ordinance to

[39:13] consider a zoning district map change from A1 residential single unit district

[39:20] to B3 neighborhood business district for property belonging to Donald G and

[39:27] Steven M. Atkins located 1374 St. Matthews Road. Tax map number

[39:33] 0174-18-09-00005.0000.

[39:43] Uh as mentioned previously, the developer uh John Pitus uh whom council

[39:49] met at the uh second reading and the public hearing discussed his plans for

[39:54] uh the area in placing a coffee shop on the property. Uh Mr. Mr. Pletus has a

[40:01] contract with the property owners which allows him to speak on their behalf. Uh

[40:06] Mr. Pitus also presented his plans to the planning commission during the June

[40:11] planning commission meeting. Uh one person from the community attended but

[40:17] chose not to speak. After hearing the plans, the planning commission voted to

[40:21] recommend the resoning to city council. Um I reached out to Mr. Pitus uh earlier

[40:28] today regarding uh any outreach that he may have uh done along with uh the

[40:35] property owners and I was told that there was no outreach that was done.

[40:39] However, um as required, the city mailed uh everyone in that area a notification

[40:47] so that they were aware. Um

[40:53] so that's the the third reading. >> Thank you.

[40:56] [clears throat] All right. Um, council, do we have any discussions on this

[41:00] matter?

[41:03] » I think last time we made mention of fencing that area, right?

[41:07] » Yes, sir. >> How far would the fence go?

[41:11] » Um, I am not actually sure, but I can find that out for you. Um, I'm not sure

[41:17] about the the plans. I'm not sure if >> they will have they will have to provide

[41:22] a buffer along the um perimeters of the residential areas and that business.

[41:31] » Okay. >> Will be a buffer there.

[41:34] Have to run the entire length of the property.

[41:38] » Okay. Thank you. >> Uh Mr. Aptton, let me ask you this

[41:42] question. Has um what type of buffer of uh has that been discussed in terms of

[41:51] » Yes. Our zoning our zoning ordinance requires a um a type B buffer which

[41:58] would be a I think it's a a six-foot fence and the type of buffer that the

[42:04] type of material that that buffer or fence has to be made out of is a stone

[42:09] or concrete. >> Okay,

[42:14] [clears throat]

[42:17] » that's it. Thank you. >> You miss

[42:20] anything?

[42:23] Okay. If if it's no more discussion, I want to read the ordinance. An ordinance

[42:27] [clears throat] to approve a change to the zoning district map from A1

[42:34] residential to single unit district to B3

[42:38] neighborhood business district for the property belonging to Donald G. And

[42:44] Steve Ais located at 1374 St. Matthews Road. tax map number 0174

[42:53] 1809005000000

[42:57] and provide for related matters. If we could entertain a motion, please

[43:03] [snorts] move for approval. >> Uh motion been made by Dr. Koo.

[43:09] » Second. >> Second by uh uh Councilman Kit. All in

[43:14] favor? >> All right. Any oppose?

[43:18] Three, four, three, four. You You oppose,

[43:23] » huh? >> You oppose.

[43:25] » No, sir. >> Okay. 3 4 3 4 Three against it.

[43:32] » Motion. Motion's carried.

[43:38] » Okay. Okay. Number um item number five uh under new business uh is a resolution

[43:47] for the city administrator to negotiate and enter a contract with we Martin

[43:53] contracting for the reconstruction of police camp road due to the flooding

[43:57] that occurred in 2024. Um we issued an RFP in April of this

[44:04] year. Um but we received very little response. So that um because of that we

[44:10] reissued the RFP in June of this year. Um bid notifications were placed on the

[44:18] skebo site which is the state uh business opportunity site as well as our

[44:24] website for any interested party to view and respond. Um there were six big

[44:30] criteria that was used. Uh one is proof of commercial liability insurance. Uh

[44:37] timeliness of the RFP response. Uh the experience qualifications and ability to

[44:44] perform the requested services. Uh the cost references and any deat

[44:51] demonstrated compliance with uh state and federal laws for a total of 100

[44:57] points. uh including myself, there were four evaluators and we had a total of

[45:03] five bid responses. Um

[45:08] so we recently sent a letter to um Martin uh We Martin Contracting

[45:15] informing them that they received the highest overall score based on the

[45:20] evaluation criteria and that we were recommending them to council to be

[45:25] awarded the contract. Um, we did receive monies from FEMA um towards the

[45:33] reconstruction of the road. Um, and that was based on an estimate that was given

[45:40] to us by a local contractor. However, they decided or they chose not to

[45:44] respond to the RFP.

[45:49] » And that this is over there by the skating ring,

[45:52] » correct? >> Over there. Okay. And you're repairing

[45:54] the road. >> Yes.

[45:55] » Oh, good. Good. Good. Okay. Now, any any questions or concerns while I read the

[46:02] ordinance resolution? Okay. Resolution approving the city

[46:06] administrator to negotiate enter into a contract with E Martin Contracting LLC

[46:14] for the reconstruction of the police camp road and approving for other

[46:20] related matters. Would you like to entertain a motion, please? So move

[46:24] mayor >> and properly moved by Councilman uh

[46:26] Hannah. >> Second second by Councilman Koo. All in

[46:29] favor? Any opposed? Eyes have it. The motion is carried. Thank you.

[46:34] » Thank you.

[46:50] Good evening. Good evening again, mayor and council. Um, item number six for

[46:55] your consideration is first reading of an ordinance to

[46:59] amend the city code to add a new article regulating electric scooters, electric

[47:04] assist bicycles, electric micromobility devices, party bicycles, and shared

[47:10] mobility devices. establishing definitions, operating rules, equipment

[47:15] and safety requirements, dismount zones, parking and obstruction rules, rental

[47:21] and shared fleet regulations and enforcement and penalties. Um,

[47:27] as you all know and uh uh uh Councilman Hannah has has been uh very instrumental

[47:34] and admit that uh the city uh become proactive as it relates to electric

[47:42] mobility devices. Um and so our city attorney uh has proposed or put together

[47:49] an ordinance for your consideration. I'll just highlight a a few of the

[47:55] uh items in the ordinance. Um so it

[48:02] um it basically would require that devices these electric uh mobility

[48:08] devices would be allowed to uh operate in roadways if the speed limit is 25

[48:16] miles per hour or less. Uh they must ride on the right side of the road

[48:21] obviously and obey all traffic controls. Uh as it relates to sidewalks, um

[48:28] bicycles, ebikes and scooters only would be allowed to ride on sidewalks at a

[48:34] speed of 8 miles per hour or less. They have to yield to pedestrians. Um

[48:41] provide audible signals to pass. Uh microobility devices and mopeds cannot

[48:48] operate on sidewalks. Uh there will be no sidewalk riding in the central

[48:53] business district which currently would be designated as Russell Street or

[48:57] sidewalks of paths bordering South Carolina State and Claflin. Um anyone in

[49:04] that capacity must dismount and walk. Um equipment and safety. The devices must

[49:13] have lights uh front and rear or reflective material required after dark.

[49:19] Functioning brakes. Um again they must yield and provide audible signals before

[49:24] passing pedestrians. Um no one under 16 would be allowed to

[49:30] operate these uh electric devices. And if you're under 21, you must use a

[49:38] helmet. Uh there can be no tampering with ebike speed limiters or mislabeling

[49:46] um modified devices. As far as prohibited activities, uh rental rentals

[49:52] um shared or dockless fleets of scooters, ebikes, or micromobility

[49:57] devices would be banned on the public way. Um party bicycles like um pedal

[50:03] pubs or beer bikes would be banned outright on any public street, sidewalk,

[50:08] trail or right away. Um parking or abandoning devices that block pedestrian

[50:15] paths uh would be prohibited uh along if they are on um curb ramps, transit

[50:22] stops, entrances or ADA uh accessible features. As far as

[50:28] enforcement violations equals uh public nuisance and civil penalties escalate

[50:35] within a rolling 12-month period, starting at $75 for the first offense,

[50:39] $110 uh for the second offense, $250 third

[50:43] and $500 um for any subsequent offenses. Uh

[50:48] non-compliant devices may be impounded. Uh administrative hearings are available

[50:53] for anyone who wants to um protest within 14 days. The city may also pursue

[51:00] injunctive relief. Um as far as administration, it would

[51:06] require the city administrator or designate to review the article at least

[51:09] every 24 months for changes in technology, state law, and industry. And

[51:15] of course, it would be effective upon approval. Um, so those are just some

[51:20] highlights of the ordinance. U we all realize this still a work in progress,

[51:26] but we wanted to put forth something for you all to consider. Um, I would also

[51:31] recommend that uh if if you all are amanable to it that we um engage the

[51:38] universities Claflin and South Ghana State for their input as well once uh we

[51:43] have a a working ordinance that that you all are comfortable with.

[51:48] Happy to answer any questions. >> Oh yes, sir.

[51:53] » Have you seen some people on the street with their motorized wheelchair?

[52:04] » So the question is would those would those apply?

[52:09] » Yeah. So what do you classify that? >> Michael, you want to talk that?

[52:14] Excuse me. Yes.

[52:18] » Uh I will look in the section, but the intent was there be a carve out for um

[52:25] handicap related devices.

[52:30] » Can you read the first um what thing you said? You said that they can ride on

[52:35] public highways with a speed limit less than 25 miles an hour. Did I hear that

[52:39] correctly? >> Yes. Roadways allowed if the speed limit

[52:42] is posted at 25 miles per hour or less. But they would have to, you know, obey

[52:48] traffic signals and and and ride on the the right side of the street just like

[52:53] any anyone else. >> Michael, is there anything in title 56

[52:56] that contradicts that? >> I apologize.

[53:00] » I was looking for the other item. I didn't hear that question.

[53:03] » Is there anything in title 56 of the state code of laws that prevents a ebike

[53:08] or e- scooter to travel on roadways? Um, as far as I recall, 56, other than

[53:15] actual motor vehicles, of course, um, deals with

[53:20] golf carts, and I know in November it will deal with side by sides, but I

[53:24] don't recall that it covers anything. >> So, the definition of a motor vehicle in

[53:28] title 56 doesn't cover these is what you're saying.

[53:31] » Uh, no. And low um low-speed vehicles, which is a separate section, would also

[53:38] not I don't think would cover this as well. Okay.

[53:43] » Um, just a couple of clarifications. Uh, so the sidewalks, pathways bordering

[53:49] South Carolina State and Claflin, that would include 601, correct? So, um, as

[53:54] it's written, they would have to, um, walk the bike along 601.

[54:01] » Yes, ma'am. and u riders under 16 may not operate an

[54:06] electric scooter um or micro mobility device. So if the device is made for a

[54:14] child um they would still have to be 16 years of age to operate that device for

[54:20] a child under 16. If the device is made for a child under 16 they would still

[54:24] have to be 16 years of age to operate that device

[54:27] » as it's currently drafted. That is correct.

[54:30] » Okay. And this is banning um any rental companies coming into the city um to

[54:37] rent ebikes to um citizens. Okay. >> I had one more question uh for Chief

[54:45] Alson. Have we had any collisions or anything with any of these scooters or

[54:49] ebikes?

[54:55] » Mr. Mayor, members of council, uh we've had a couple of incidents. Yes.

[54:59] » Okay. But no one has been injured. >> Okay. Are we seeing an increase in

[55:04] these? >> We are. We're seeing an increase in

[55:07] ebikes and also we've noticed an uptick in the thefts of ebikes.

[55:14] » All right. Thank you. >> And it may be hard to classify, but

[55:19] would you say that the use is particularly around the academic year

[55:23] and when South Carolina State and Claflin are in session?

[55:27] » No, not particularly. >> Okay. Thank you.

[55:31] » And the universities will have to make their own rules and regulations, don't

[55:37] they? >> They can, but again, I would I would

[55:41] recommend that we engage them for their input as well. Obviously, they do have a

[55:45] lot of students who who use these um you know devices.

[55:52] » Uh thank you, mayor. It's e ebikes, e scooters,

[55:58] electrical, two wheelers, three-wheelers.

[56:05] First and foremost, the city is not it's not our intent

[56:11] to hunts on these tools that some people use to to go to

[56:18] go to work. Some of them use to go to school and some of them use just to

[56:21] plagiarize. If I was a young youngster, I'd definitely like to have him in. But

[56:26] there is a different there is a discretion between an e scooter which

[56:31] basically go 20 miles per hour and an ebike which some of them go 75 80 miles

[56:38] per hour. So it's it's a little

[56:43] wiggle room in there. And the intent was just to make the citizens aware of this

[56:54] influx of electrical use um tools, bikes, you know, scooters

[57:03] and that was only intent was so that we could be safe.

[57:07] If if you're riding along and you don't know no rules, you don't use no rules.

[57:12] This is not the Ottoman. So kids will use whatever rules

[57:18] that is posted and that was the justice. We didn't have anything and when it

[57:23] started out so only six cities in South Carolina months ago had any rules or

[57:29] regulation about ebike but since that time

[57:33] many of them have jumped on board and investigating how ebikes

[57:38] affects the daily lives of this city. Some of them ride them in the malls. You

[57:44] didn't have no rule against it. What you going to tell a person if you didn't

[57:47] have no rule? >> Ride them in the parks, ride them

[57:51] wherever they want to ride. All it is is that give them some rules and

[57:56] regulation. And that's what this ordinance is all about. Giving rules of

[58:00] regulation. We can protect each other, the rider and the non. So we go along

[58:06] with that. I just I'm happy to see them and I know people can use them. I seen

[58:11] them riding from what we call they change the name so many time rope

[58:15] hostana >> electrolux western house whatever that

[58:19] plant is down on 33 they changes names I've seen them riding from there

[58:26] 40 50 year old people and then I also see that same 40 50 year old people

[58:32] riding a scooter that's running 20 miles an hour and some of them are supposedly

[58:40] made to ride 20 miles per hour 22 but I've seen the scooter riding 35 and 40

[58:45] it is zigzag so we just want to make our citizens aware [clears throat] of

[58:50] what's happening and just give a better life livelihood

[58:56] so we all can live with each other and don't be conflicted on each other and

[59:02] both of us know the rules and we know that this ebike is uh the

[59:09] the chief

[59:12] Since you've been talking, I know there have been some kind of collisions

[59:15] somewhere about ebike somewhere and you can't stop collisions. You just have to

[59:20] make people more aware of it with, you know, like wearing a helmet so they can

[59:23] protect yourself if there's collision, riding on the right side of the highway.

[59:28] So, you know, put those restrictions in order. That's all we ask. just have some

[59:32] kind of restrictions so that we can better ourselves in Orangeburg and we

[59:37] can take the lead on knowing that we have a town where people is safe to ride

[59:42] the electrical motorized vehicles. Thank you, ma'am.

[59:49] » Okay. Any more discussions on this item? If not, I'm going to read the proposed

[59:54] ordinance. Regulation of electric scooters, electric assistant bicycles,

[1:00:00] electric micro mobility devices, party bicycles,

[1:00:07] and shared mobility devices.

[1:00:12] We need a motion. >> So move, mayor,

[1:00:16] » properly moved by Councilman Hannah. >> Second.

[1:00:19] » Second by Councilman Kit. All in favor? >> I

[1:00:24] I'm standing at the moment. >> It's so How many is in favor? Ra Shane

[1:00:29] so I know. >> Okay. One, two, three.

[1:00:34] » You in favor? >> Okay.

[1:00:37] » You're in favor Jo. >> Are you in favor?

[1:00:40] » Uh, not right now. Not as it stands. >> It's one, two, three, four.

[1:00:45] » Four. >> Yeah.

[1:00:46] » Four. >> Three.

[1:00:49] » Motion is carried. [snorts] Eyes have. Motion is carried.

[1:00:54] You said the motion. >> Yeah, it's four.

[1:00:57] » Yeah, it's four of us. >> Four of us. It's me,

[1:01:00] » Miss K and >> Yes.

[1:01:05] » Scary. Okay. Thank you, Miss Evy. >> Thank you, mayor.

[1:01:09] » Okay. Okay. Uh, you want me to start? >> Yeah, I'm sorry. I'm just here. Uh on

[1:01:15] item number seven is a city council determination of a grievance matter as

[1:01:20] relates to DPS. On July the 23rd, 2026, the city

[1:01:27] grievance committee held a hearing regarding Benjam Benjamin Jones and

[1:01:32] Battalion Chief Winningingham and the five uh lieutenant promotion

[1:01:38] process. Council has council has received and

[1:01:43] reviewed the grievance committee's findings and recommendations.

[1:01:48] The committee recommended that the city and department of public safety number

[1:01:55] one adopt a comprehensive written promotional policy.

[1:02:01] clearly communicates the promotional process, evaluation criteria and scoring

[1:02:08] methodology to all candidates. Number three, establish a standard scoring

[1:02:15] system. Number four, ensure all candidates receive the same information

[1:02:21] material in and time and timelines. Number five, require candidates to

[1:02:29] acknowledge their understanding of the promotional

[1:02:33] process. Number six, maintain complete

[1:02:37] documentation of promotional and selection selection process.

[1:02:43] The committee also recommended that DPS consider

[1:02:47] re-administering the fire lieutenant promotion process.

[1:02:53] [clears throat] Is is there is there a motion at this

[1:02:58] time for city council to accept the grievance committee's finding and

[1:03:02] approve approve all of it recommendations with the exception of

[1:03:07] remministering the lieutenant uh promotion process.

[1:03:13] Um, mayor and council, I u move that we um conclude the grievance process by

[1:03:20] adopting the following. Um, as stated, adopting a comprehensive written

[1:03:25] promotional policy, clearly communicating the promotional process

[1:03:29] evaluation criteria and scoring methodology to all candidates. Establish

[1:03:34] a standardized scoring system. Ensure all candidates receive the same

[1:03:39] information, materials, and timelines. require candidates to acknowledge their

[1:03:44] understanding of the promotional process and maintain complete documentation of

[1:03:49] the promotional and selection process. Again, I recommend that we um move to

[1:03:54] conclude the grievance process as stated and direct any further matters to the

[1:03:59] city administrator to handle. >> Motion has been made by Councilman

[1:04:03] Grievous. >> Second.

[1:04:04] » Second by Councilman Hannah. All in favor?

[1:04:08] » Eyes have it. oppose. >> I uh six

[1:04:14] 61 motion motion is carried. >> Thank you.

[1:04:18] » Thank you, Mayor.

[1:04:22] » Mr. Holly, is there any DP?

[1:04:28] Mr. Mayor, members of council, thank you. And uh first of all, I want to uh

[1:04:34] take the same opportunity as Mr. Evering did and thank uh all of our team that

[1:04:38] worked on the budget. I have called their names previously, but certainly uh

[1:04:43] this is uh a task that one person does not do alone. It is certainly a team

[1:04:48] effort. Uh even uh Sydney and I and and staff's uh our regular meeting on

[1:04:54] Tuesdays, we get together and we talk to uh each other about the plans that we're

[1:04:58] making. So uh the teamwork uh flows throughout. Uh certainly Daniel is here.

[1:05:05] uh he is uh largely responsible for helping us put this together as well as

[1:05:10] our budget director uh along with the other members of the team that are not

[1:05:14] here. So I want to say thank you to them but I want to say thank you to city

[1:05:18] council because you endure and I I do mean in boldface capital letters

[1:05:24] underlined endure countless hours of meetings of us talking about these

[1:05:28] things and uh all the projects that we're doing and the challenges that we

[1:05:33] face as a city. I thank you for your time and your effort and and and uh

[1:05:37] dedication to this. So I want to commend you on that. Having said all that, uh I

[1:05:43] committed to you that as uh we know more about

[1:05:49] how our budget uh uh will uh end up the the the amended ordinance. I will point

[1:05:55] out to you any changes that we've made. And so you have at your your uh desk uh

[1:06:02] a highlighted version of the amendment that we will ask you to make uh to the

[1:06:08] amended budget. Um and first of all I want to point out uh where those changes

[1:06:13] are. We are uh projecting a uh 76 point 76,655,000

[1:06:25] uh instead of the $70,000 uh increase uh to cost of total sales.

[1:06:31] And so that uh increase will uh be about approximately $7 million increase to our

[1:06:38] our uh cost of total sales. And then if you flow down a little bit lower uh to

[1:06:44] the cont contributed capital uh you see a uh change from 9.8 million to 11.5

[1:06:53] million uh in uh contributed capital that is just uh more reflective of the

[1:06:59] grants that we have received to date. a more updated version of how much money

[1:07:03] that we have uh that that has come into us from the grants that we uh that we

[1:07:09] use to do a uh major projects that we've uh applied for over the last several

[1:07:13] years. Um at the end of the day, the all of that changes our net profit after

[1:07:20] transfer and contributions from 22.9 million to 17.6

[1:07:27] million. uh a net uh decrease of 5.3 million uh thereabout and I would ask

[1:07:35] council uh to make the amendment uh I think you have one in front of you

[1:07:41] amendment that reflects the net profit change uh from the 22.9 to the 17.6 Six.

[1:07:49] » Okay. >> Number eight.

[1:07:52] » Number eight. Number eight. >> Number Yes. Item eight.

[1:07:54] » Yeah. An amendment to the budget for the operation of the Department of Public

[1:07:59] Utilities for the city of Orangeburg for the fiscal year October 1st, 2025

[1:08:06] through September 30th, 2026 to revise the net profit after transfer

[1:08:14] and contributions from 22,943,057

[1:08:21] to 17,642. 2,57.

[1:08:27] » Motion has been made by Councilman Kit. >> Second.

[1:08:31] » Second by Councilman Kn. All in favor? >> I.

[1:08:35] » Any opposed? I have it. The motion's eyes have the motion is carried. Thank

[1:08:42] you, >> Mr. Mayor, members of council. Likewise,

[1:08:46] I want to point out on uh the projected budget for 2026

[1:08:51] 27. Um I want to point out one the revenue hasn't changed, but we do have

[1:08:58] uh uh a change that we based on the the uh impact fee adjustment that council

[1:09:06] has passed to this point and we'll have uh third reading on after this. Uh we

[1:09:11] are revising our numbers that will increase our uh final net profit after

[1:09:18] transfer and contributions by 660,000 uh from 16.8 million to 17.5 million.

[1:09:27] And I'd ask that you uh make that amendment to reflect uh the changes.

[1:09:32] » Okay. Amendment number nine, an amendment to the budget for the

[1:09:36] operation of the Department of Public Utilities for the city of Orangeburg for

[1:09:41] the fiscal year October 1st, 2026 through September 30th, 2027

[1:09:48] to revise the net profit after transfer and contributions from 16,887,396

[1:09:59] to 17,546. 7,396.

[1:10:04] » Okay. Motion has made been made by Councilman Kit.

[1:10:10] » Do we hear the second? >> Second.

[1:10:12] » Second by Councilman Grievous. All in favor?

[1:10:16] » I. >> Any opposed? Eyes have. The motion is

[1:10:18] carried. >> Mr. Mayor. Um, pardon me. I should have

[1:10:21] got you after you made the amendments. You now need to pass both ordinance as

[1:10:26] amended. >> Okay. Okay. Okay.

[1:10:30] We'll read we'll read the ordinance. >> Yeah, just read it as

[1:10:34] I I'll read it.

[1:10:39] Let me see this.

[1:10:44] Ordinance number eight, an ordinance to amend the budget for the operation of

[1:10:49] the department of the public utility in the city of Orangeburg, state of South

[1:10:54] Carolina for the fiscal year October 1, 2025 through o through September 30th,

[1:11:01] 2026. We like to entertain a motion, please

[1:11:06] move for approval of item number eight. A motion been made by Councilman Ku,

[1:11:10] second by Councilman Kit. All in favor? >> I.

[1:11:14] » Any opposed? Eyes have. The motion is carried.

[1:11:17] » Item number nine, an ordinance to adopt a budget from the operation of the

[1:11:23] Department of Public Utilities of the City of Orangeburg, South Carolina for

[1:11:28] the fiscal year of October 1, 2026 through September

[1:11:34] 30th, 2027. Adopt and amend electric rates effective October 1, 2026.

[1:11:41] Adopt and amend water rates effective October 1, 2026.

[1:11:49] Adopt and amend wastewater rates effective October 1, 2026. We like to

[1:11:55] entertain a motion. >> Move for the adoption.

[1:11:57] » Motion has been made by Council Kit. >> Second motion. Second by Council Koo.

[1:12:03] All in favor? >> I. eyes have. The motion is carried.

[1:12:06] Thank you, >> Mr. Mayor, members of council. Item

[1:12:09] number 10 is the third reading of an ordinance that would uh increase the

[1:12:14] impact fees for our water and wastewater division. Uh there are no changes in

[1:12:19] that ordinance. At this time, I'd ask you to uh make third and final approval.

[1:12:25] » Okay. Council, before I read this ordinance, are there any discussions on

[1:12:29] item number 10? >> Um uh Mr. Mayor.

[1:12:32] » Yes, sir. I just want you to let the public know

[1:12:35] that this is not for the current customers, right?

[1:12:38] » Yes, sir. Uh just uh as Dr. Koo uh uh reminded us, Mr. Mayor, members of

[1:12:44] council, and people uh in the public, uh the increase in impact fees will impact

[1:12:52] those customers who are new to the system. So existing customers who are

[1:12:58] not building new uh facilities, new uh uh buildings, new homes, they would not

[1:13:04] be impacted. It is for customers that are coming onto the system so that they

[1:13:09] can carry their fair share of the uh burden that it costs the citizens and

[1:13:15] the community to provide water and wastewater services.

[1:13:21] » Are there any more discussions on on item number 10?

[1:13:25] Okay. If not, I want to read the ordinance. An ordinance amended section

[1:13:30] number four five four uh department of installation

[1:13:36] sub session water impact fees sub session D wastewater impact fees of the

[1:13:47] general terms and conditions of department of public utilities.

[1:13:52] » Okay. would like to entertain a motion. >> Mayor, councel, I move for the adoption

[1:13:55] of the ordinance amending session four. >> Um motion's been made by Councilman Kit.

[1:14:01] » Second. >> Second by Councilman Hannah. All in

[1:14:04] favor? >> Any oppose? Eyes have. The motion is

[1:14:07] carried. >> Thank you, Mr. Mayor. Council

[1:14:09] » and thank you, Mr. Har.

[1:14:13] » Okay. At this time, we are getting ready to go into an executive session. We will

[1:14:19] discuss item number 11 in the executive session. Discussion of matters relating

[1:14:24] to the proposed location expansion of the provision of service encouraging the

[1:14:30] location of expansion of industrials and other businesses in the area served by

[1:14:37] the public body South Carolina code section 347A

[1:14:43] 5 project Russell. We're going to we're going to entertain a motion to go into

[1:14:48] executive session. going to do that just to say your

[1:14:53] statement. >> We miss kit want to have personal

[1:14:56] privilege just for one minute please. >> Before we go into session I want to

[1:15:00] again thank the our administrator the department of each department

[1:15:07] chairpersons all of department of public utilities

[1:15:12] the chair all of you and the times of democrat for the articles. Yes, the

[1:15:19] » the beautiful articles that have been put in the newspaper con um talking

[1:15:24] about what we are doing and to the audience we thank you for coming. We

[1:15:31] appreciate having you here and we want to say to you, we're working as hard as

[1:15:38] we can and goodness knows we are moving ahead. So, thank you so much. Keep

[1:15:45] coming to see us and we will work for you. Thank you. Now go ahead. [applause]

[1:15:51] » Amen. All right. We'd like to entertain a motion to go into executive session.

[1:15:56] » So move >> properly moved by Councilman uh

[1:15:59] Grievous. Second. >> Second by Councilman KN. All in favor? I

[1:16:04] have the most good night and have a safe trip home.

9/1/2026 | City Council Meeting

Transcript