News Summary
The Greenwood County Council convened on February 21, 2025, to discuss crucial recovery initiatives following Hurricane Helene. Key decisions included a groundbreaking land swap for Park Plaza renovations, securing Medicaid funding for ambulance services, new landfill fees for hurricane debris, and a proposal for sick leave donations. The Ferncliff Neighborhood’s petition for a special tax district to fund repairs highlights community resilience. Additionally, the council promoted Heart Month to raise awareness about heart health. The next council meeting is set for March 4, 2025, to continue addressing community needs.
Greenwood Takes Bold Steps towards Recovery and Growth!
On Tuesday, February 21, 2025, the bustling community of Greenwood gathered for an electrifying meeting of the Greenwood County Council. The local leaders are hard at work tackling the aftermath of Hurricane Helene while setting an ambitious course for the future!
A Groundbreaking Land Swap to Enhance Park Plaza
One of the most exciting developments of the day was the council’s approval of a land swap involving key locations in Uptown. Specifically, portions of 223 Park Ave. and 600 Monument St. will be exchanged for part of 215 Park Ave. This strategic move is all about improving access to the highly anticipated Park Plaza renovation project. To sweeten the deal, Greenwood County has graciously agreed to cover the paving costs for JMP Holdings’ new parking lot. This is a win-win for our local businesses and increasing foot traffic in the area!
Medicaid Funding Secured for Critical Ambulance Services
In another important update, the council made significant strides in securing additional Medicaid funding specifically for ambulance services. Access to timely medical attention is essential, and this funding will ensure our first responders continue to provide growth and safety to our citizens.
Landfill Fees and Hurricane Cleanup
Sick Leave Donation Proposal Meets Challenges
In a unique twist, the council also discussed a proposal that would allow employees to donate sick leave to a member of the coroner’s office. However, the motion was narrowly defeated with a 3-4 vote. The ongoing challenges facing our community are not only logistical but emotional as well, emphasizing the importance of support among colleagues.
Ferncliff Neighborhood Steps Up for Repair Funds
As the community cleans up, the Ferncliff Neighborhood is taking action to address its needs. A public hearing was held regarding a petition presented by the Ferncliff HOA for the establishment of a special tax district. This initiative aims to gather funds for repairs to an earthen dam and roads that suffered during the hurricane. Ferncliff HOA President Danny Tallent reported that he gathered 27 signatures from the community, which will be forwarded to the County Election Commission for a special election. This move highlights the resilience and voice of the residents in the face of adversity.
Council Members Champion Heart Month
In a heartwarming display of community spirit, council members and staff donned red attire in support of Heart Month. This initiative aimed to promote heart health awareness among citizens, reminding everyone to prioritize their well-being!
Progress Report on Hurricane Cleanup
Throughout the meeting, presentations were made on a variety of topics including economic development, building permits, and ongoing storm debris cleanup efforts. Since Hurricane Helene hit in September, the landfill has been hard at work, accepting approximately 29,952 tons of vegetative debris and 5,124 tons of construction debris. Additionally, the council approved waiving building permit fees for repairs related to the hurricane until March 6, 2025, encouraging residents to restore their properties as swiftly as possible.
Looking Towards the Future
As the meeting wrapped up, the council discussed plans for constructing a new cell at the county’s landfill, with an estimated cost of $9 million. Council Treasurer Steffanie Dorn enthusiastically reported robust tax revenue collections and ongoing economic activity, showcasing the community’s resilience even in tough times.
Where to Next?
The next chapter in Greenwood’s journey will unfold at the upcoming council meeting on March 4, 2025, at the Greenwood County Library. As always, closed-door executive sessions will be held to address various legal and personnel matters behind the scenes.
Stay tuned, Greenwood! Exciting developments are just around the corner as our community works to rebuild and flourish!
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Additional Resources
- Index Journal: Greenwood County Council Approves Land Swap
- Wikipedia: Hurricane
- Fox Carolina: Greenwood Co. Council Approves Incentives
- Google Search: Greenwood County Council
- Index Journal: Greenwood County Council Addresses Storm Cleanup
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Medicaid
- Newberry Observer: Auditor-Treasurer Positions
- Google News: Greenwood County
