Foggy Mornings and Stormy Afternoons: Highlights from Greenwood City Council Meeting and Community Updates

Foggy mornings and a stormy afternoon in Greenwood

Hello Greenwood residents! If you stepped out this morning, you probably noticed the foggy conditions that greeted the city early today. As the day moves along, we can expect isolated thunderstorms to pop up here and there in the afternoon, with a gentle smack of winds coming from the southwest at 5 to 10 mph. Don’t forget your umbrella if you’re heading out, as there is a 30% chance of rain. The high will bounce around at a comfortable 68°F, making it a mixed-kind of weather day.

As the evening rolls in, we’ll see the skies clear up to partly cloudy conditions before becoming overcast after midnight. There’s a slight chance of some showers sneaking back in, so best to hang onto those umbrellas until morning. Temperatures will dip to a low of 49°F with light and variable winds to carry us through the night.

A Heartfelt Farewell at Greenwood City Council

It was an emotional day at the Greenwood City Council meeting this Monday, as they held their last gathering of the year. Councilmember Betty Boles was bid a warm and grateful farewell after serving for an amazing 21 years as Ward 3’s representative. It’s clear the city will truly miss her passionate dedication to the community. One of Boles’s memorable messages to all was, “If I can help someone along the way, then my work was not in vain.” Spoken like a true public servant!

At this same meeting, Annette Edwards was enthusiastically sworn in as Ward 3’s newest representative. The room was packed with Edwards’s friends, family, and supporters, who were eager to witness this fresh start. Edwards expressed her joy by saying she felt “excited, like a kid waking up to Christmas,” and is ready to address concerns from the residents of her ward.

Exciting Developments and Plans for 2025

The council covered significant business ahead of the coming year, including the approval of the 2025 budget. As part of this, a key change is an increase in the millage rate to address a deficit, bumping it up from 119.9 to 127.9. City Manager Julie Wilkie underscored the importance of this shift to cover a $859,000 deficit, with no opposition from the gathered residents during discussions.

In addition to financial plans, a rezoning approval was given for parts of Cobb and Mathis Roads to a medium-density residential area, promising room for 44 new lots. This chalks a path for new developments on 19.17 acres of land.

Another noteworthy resolution was passed for the historic enhancement of the Kitson Mill village region. Plans to enter into a deal with Roger Lewis LLC are underfoot, designating this area a National Historic Registry venue. This could mean substantial tax breaks for property owners and a funded study set to kick-start. Prospects are promising for Greenwood to reap multiple benefits from these ventures.

Hats off to Girl Scout Troop 17115!

As the meeting concluded, applause filled the room in appreciation of Girl Scout Troop 17115. Their impressive collection of nearly 300 stuffed animals for the police department’s “Adopt-a-Bear Program” will bring smiles and comfort to children facing trying times at crime scenes. It’s these gestures that knit our community closer together.

Mark your calendars for the next council meeting on January 6, 2025, where more community-focused discussions are sure to unfold. Until then, residents are encouraged to voice any local concerns or observations to keep the Greenwood spirit alive and vibrant!

Stay warm and keep a keen eye on the skies. Till next time, Greenwood!