Sun Shines on Abbeville Amid City Council’s Big Decisions and Hurricane Relief Efforts

Sun Shines on Abbeville Amid City Council’s Big Decisions

Good morning, folks of Abbeville! If you peek outside your window, you’ll see some clouds lingering around, but don’t let them fool you. These are just the early morning greeters. Rest assured, they’ll make way for the bright and sunshine-filled skies later this afternoon. Expect the temperatures to climb up to a pretty comfortable 66°F, with a gentle breeze coming in from the NNW at 5 to 10 mph. As the day turns into night, the skies will clear up completely, and temperatures will dip to a cool 40°F. So, if you have any plans, a light jacket might do the trick.

A Packed Day at the Abbeville City Council Meeting

Let’s pause for a moment from discussing the lovely weather and dive into what’s been happening around the neighborhood. On Wednesday, the Abbeville City Council gathered for an important meeting, and there was a lot on the agenda. One of the key highlights? City Judge Ed Strickland officially swore in Councilmembers Matt Gambrell, James Jackson, Faye Thomas, Benji Greeson, and Mayor Trey Edwards. Quite a team, right?

Facing the Aftermath of Hurricane Helene

While the weather today reminds us of all the beauty our city has to offer, we cannot forget the challenges we faced because of Hurricane Helene. The City of Abbeville is tightening its belt as it plots ways to finance ongoing relief efforts. During the council meeting, an ordinance was approved in its first reading that aims to add a modest $2.77 to power bills for all city residents. Why, you ask? Well, with bills piling up and reimbursement from FEMA possibly taking one to two years, it’s a necessary move, according to City Manager Blake Stone.

“This is the only option,” Stone emphasized as he explained the 2% electric rate increase. The measure also plans to end city coverage of credit card fees, ensuring an increase in revenue that will help manage interim financing debt service. With approximately 3,400 customers in the city, this is expected to bring in around $10,000 a month, funds that are crucial for replenishing inventory, the McGowan Reconduct Project, and paying linemen who aided in recovery efforts.

Mixed Reactions Among Council Members

The ordinance received support, with Councilmembers Jason Edwards, Louise Aikens, along with others, voting in favor. However, there were some voices of concern. Councilmembers Benji Greeson, Chris Crawford, Faye Thomas, and John Sutherland opposed the measure. Faye Thomas stressed the importance of alerting residents about this coming change and acknowledged that residents might be taken aback by this sudden financial shift.

Looking Ahead and Beyond

Mayor Trey Edwards pointed out that the changes were prompted by an act of God, and residents might wonder why they are paying extra for something they did not cause. City Manager Stone highlighted how crucial these steps are given the waiting period of 12 to 24 months for FEMA reimbursement, which may not even fully cover the incurred expenses.

While some might be wondering about lowering the utility rates, the council acknowledged the ongoing challenges and confirmed that any relief from FEMA would immediately be notified to residents. Ultimately, the removal of any additional fees would rest in the hands of the council once funds start coming in.

Well, that’s the scoop for today in Abbeville! We hope everyone enjoys the sunny weather and keeps the determined community spirit that our city prides itself on. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns, the city council is just around the corner, ready to hear from its residents.

Stay sunny, Abbeville!