Pickens County public meetings in 2025

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council will hold a first reading of an ordinance to amend the Unified Development Standards ordinance, focusing on housing, infrastructure growth, and development impact. A second reading will address amendments to Article V of Chapter 2 of the County Code, including procurement matters. The meeting also includes a presentation on creating a Pickens County Resilience Commission and a legal discussion in executive session.

• First reading (title only) of ordinance amending the Unified Development Standards to address housing, infrastructure growth, and development impact.
• Second reading of ordinance amending Article V of Chapter 2 of the County Code, covering procurement and related items.
• Presentation and discussion on establishing a Pickens County Resilience Commission (Councilor Claiborne Linvill and David Vaughn, Clemson University).
• Executive session legal advice regarding Board and Commissions under Section 30-4-70(A)(2).

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board will allow brief public comments at the start of the meeting. It will consider an update to its by‑laws and approve adding Veteran’s Day to the 2026 holiday schedule. The board will also review an appeal concerning the book “Like a Love Story” by Abdi Nazemian.

• Public comment period (up to 30 minutes total)
• By‑laws update
• Add Veteran’s Day to the 2026 holiday schedule
• Review appeal of the book “Like a Love Story” by Abdi Nazemian

The board unanimously adopted proposed changes to By‑Laws Article VI, moving officer nominations and elections to a special January meeting and allowing members to be nominated for multiple offices. The board also unanimously approved adding Veteran’s Day to the 2026 library holiday schedule, closing the library on that date. No vote was recorded on the appeal regarding the placement of the book “Like a Love Story.”

• Approved By‑Laws Article VI changes (unanimous)
• Approved addition of Veteran’s Day to holiday schedule (unanimous)

Economic Development Alliance Pickens Board

The Economic Development Alliance of Pickens County Advisory Board will meet to review financial reports from September and October 2025. The board will receive updates on workforce development, product promotion, and specific projects including HAWK, HAWK II, and ElringKlinger.

• Review of September 2025 and October 2025 financial reports
• Update on Projects HAWK and HAWK II/ElringKlinger announced October 29, 2025
• Reports on workforce development and product promotion

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold a workshop and meeting to discuss land use. The primary action item is a public hearing regarding a residential development project.

• LU-25-0007: Multi-Family Residential Development - Ridge at Perry Bend Three at 4215 Calhoun Memorial Hwy Easley, SC 29640

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board will meet to review reports and conduct budget discussions. The agenda includes items regarding the 2027 budget and the E-911 budget.

• 2027 Budget discussion
• E-911 budget discussion
• Rescue Ad hoc Committee update

The board accepted the November meeting minutes. It unanimously recommended the new Rescue Squad plan, updating the definition of county employee and limiting participation. The board also gave the E‑911 system priority status for the next funding cycle. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved November minutes (unanimously)
• Recommended Rescue Squad Plan with employee definition changes (unanimously)
• Approved giving E‑911 priority status for next funding cycle (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimously)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold a first reading for an ordinance to jointly own and operate an industrial/business park in Oconee County, known as Project Broadway. The body will also discuss the 2026 employee handbook and the 2026 meeting calendar.

• First reading of ordinance for Project Broadway industrial/business park in Oconee County
• Review of 2026 Employee Handbook
• Establishment of 2026 County Council meetings calendar
• Discussion on streamlining county boards and commissions
• Update on Performing Arts Center Foundation

The council approved the November 3 and November 17, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. It gave a first‑reading title‑only approval to the Project Broadway industrial park ordinance. The council accepted the 2026 Employee Handbook with amendments and adopted the 2026 council meeting calendar. Members also voted unanimously to prepare an ordinance consolidating the Board of Zoning Appeals, Stormwater Appeals Board and Construction Board of Appeals, and to dissolve the Beautification Committee (Keep Pickens County Beautiful).

• Approved November 3 & 17, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• First‑reading title‑only of Project Broadway industrial park ordinance (6-0)
• Accepted 2026 Employee Handbook with amendments (6-0)
• Adopted 2026 Council Meeting calendar (original motion) (4-1-1)
• Approved ordinance to consolidate appeals boards (6-0)
• Dissolved Beautification Committee (Keep Pickens County Beautiful) (6-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board of Trustees will discuss the preliminary FY27 budget request and set the 2026 holiday and meeting schedules. The board will also receive reports on library statistics and finances.

• Preliminary FY27 Library Budget Request
• 2026 library holiday schedule and hours
• 2026 Library Board Meeting schedule
• Results of Teen vs YA survey
• Scheduled December 11 meeting for book appeal of 'Like a Love Story' and By-Laws update

The Library Board approved the proposed 2026 holiday schedule, including closing on the Sunday after July 4 and the weekend of Christmas. The board also approved the holiday hours, setting a 6 p.m. closing time for all branches and Saturday hours of 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Earlier minutes from September and November were approved, with some members abstaining. The 2026 board meeting calendar and locations were accepted unanimously.

• Approved September 20, 2025 board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 25, 2025 special‑called meeting minutes (abstentions: Pinkerton, Miller)
• Approved November 6, 2025 budget committee minutes (abstentions: Osborn, Miller)
• Approved 2026 holiday schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 holiday hours (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 board meeting calendar and locations (unanimous)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Emergency Services Board will hold a special meeting to hear budget presentations from each emergency services department. Department heads for EMS, County Fire, Emergency Management, E‑911, Administrative Dispatch, and Rescue Squads will present their budget information. The meeting includes a round‑table discussion before adjourning.

• Budget presentation by EMS – Meredith Teske
• Budget presentation by County Fire – John Odum
• Budget presentation by Emergency Management – Andy Childs
• Budget presentation by E‑911 – David Wagner
• Budget presentation by Administrative Dispatch – Megan Lowry

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board unanimously approved the October 13, 2025 meeting minutes. The board also decided to hold a special called meeting on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss division budgets, with Chief Gibson tasked to develop and post the agenda. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled special called meeting for Nov 20, 2025 at 6 pm to discuss division budgets

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council work session will discuss proposed changes to Article V of Chapter 2 of the county code of ordinances. The agenda also includes a discussion on employee handbook matters and Council Rule 3.5.C. No other items are listed.

• Amendments to Article V of Chapter 2 of the Pickens County Code of Ordinances
• Discussion of employee handbook issues
• Review of Council Rule 3.5.C

The council voted on a motion to create a committee, including Dale Holloway and Scott Lang, to work with Attorney Destini Pratt on changes to Section 3.5.C of the Council Rules; the motion failed with a 3‑3 vote. A subsequent motion to adjourn the work session was approved unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Create employee‑handbook committee denied (vote 3-3)
• Adjourn work session approved (vote 5-0)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Pickens County Behavioral Health Services Board will discuss updates on the sale of 311 East Main Street and the sale contract for 303 East Main Street. It will also consider proposed policies for the drug‑testing laboratory and an electronic platform for board document access. Additional items include a legislative update, research update, and by‑law revisions.

• Update on sale of 311 East Main Street, Pickens
• Update on sale contract of 303 East Main Street, Pickens
• Proposed new policies for the drug‑testing laboratory
• Electronic platform for board documents access
• Legislative update and by‑law revisions

The board unanimously accepted the counter‑offer revision for the 303 East Main Street property and gave Executive Director Angela Farmer authority to sign the closing documents. It also unanimously adopted the new drug‑testing laboratory policies, job descriptions and position‑classification changes. The annual management report and the financial report for September were accepted as information.

• Accepted counter‑offer revision for 303 East Main St sale (unanimous)
• Authorized Angela Farmer to sign closing documents for 303 East Main St sale (unanimous)
• Adopted drug‑testing lab policies and procedures (unanimous)
• Approved new job descriptions and position‑classification changes for lab staff (unanimous)
• Accepted September financial report and July‑Sept profit & loss statement as information (unanimous)
• Accepted annual management report as information (unanimous)
• Accepted November 12 agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Accepted October 8 minutes as presented (unanimous)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Emergency Services Advisory Board will review minutes, consider calling a special meeting, and hear a presentation on funding for the 911 system from the South Carolina Department of Revenue. A question‑and‑answer period and round‑table discussion will follow.

• Discussion of possible special called meeting
• Presentation on 911 system funding by SC Dept. of Revenue

The board unanimously approved the October 13, 2025 meeting minutes. It decided to hold a special called meeting on Thursday, November 20, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss division budgets, with Chief Gibson tasked to develop and post the agenda. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved October 13, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Scheduled special called meeting for Nov 20, 2025 at 6 p.m. to discuss division budgets; Chief Gibson to develop agenda
• Motion to adjourn adopted

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board of Trustees will hold a Budget/Finance Committee meeting to discuss the FY27 Library Budget.

• Budget/Finance Committee meeting
• Discussion of FY27 Library Budget

The Budget/Finance Committee discussed the FY27 library budget, including potential cuts, a reclassification of the Outreach Librarian position, new part‑time positions, vehicle purchases, software costs, and a 5% increase for heat and fuel. No objections were raised to the proposed changes and corrections. The revised budget will be forwarded to the full Library Board at its November 20, 2025 meeting.

• FY27 budget revisions accepted (no objections) and slated for board review on Nov 20, 2025

Pickens County Council

The council will conduct a third reading of an ordinance that amends the Pickens County Code of Ordinances concerning the efficient, safe operation and maintenance of the county road system. The meeting also includes first‑reading title‑only amendments to procurement rules, a public forum, and executive‑session items on board appointments and a resident request from Dellwood Subdivision. All items are subject to council vote after discussion.

• Third reading of ordinance amending road‑system operation and maintenance rules
• First‑reading title‑only of amendments to Article V, Chapter 2, procurement provisions
• Public forum (30‑minute total, 3 minutes per participant)
• Executive session: legal advice request from Dellwood Subdivision residents
• Executive session: appointments to boards and commissions

The council approved the amended minutes from three prior meetings unanimously. It moved a first‑reading title‑only of amendments to Article V, Chapter 2 of the county code and a third reading of a road‑system ordinance, each passing 6‑0. A resolution backing a boundary change for the Dellwood Subdivision in Clemson was adopted unanimously. The council also removed a public‑service commissioner and confirmed several board appointments, all with unanimous votes.

• Approved amended minutes for Oct. 6, Oct. 20, Oct. 29 meetings (6‑0)
• First‑reading title‑only of amendments to Article V, Chapter 2 of the county code (6‑0)
• Third reading of ordinance amending the county road‑system code (6‑0)
• Adopted resolution supporting Dellwood Subdivision boundary change (6‑0)
• Removed Randy Soloman from the Public Service Commission (6‑0)
• Appointed Talmadge Hughey to the Easley Central Water Board (6‑0)
• Appointed Paige Wilson to the Easley Central Water Board (6‑0)
• Appointed Jim Shelton to the Emergency Services Advisory Board (6‑0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold public hearings and third readings for two ordinances regarding business incentives. These items involve fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreements and credits for specific industrial projects.

• Ordinance No. 669: Fee in lieu of tax and incentive agreements for Project Hawk and Hawk II
• Ordinance No. 670: Amendment to fee in lieu of tax and incentive agreements for Project Hydro

The council unanimously approved the third reading of an ordinance authorizing fee‑in‑lieu tax agreements for the renamed Project Elringklinger. It also unanimously approved the third reading of Ordinance No. 670 amending fee‑in‑lieu agreements for Project Hydro. Both items passed with a 5‑0 vote and the meeting was adjourned.

• Amended name of Project Hawk to Elringklinger (5-0)
• Approved third reading of ordinance authorizing fee‑in‑lieu agreements for Project Elringklinger (5-0)
• Approved third reading of Ordinance No. 670 amending fee‑in‑lieu agreements for Project Hydro (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold a special meeting to conduct third readings of two ordinances. The body will also discuss a funding request for the detention center camera system and a comprehensive litter strategy.

• Third reading of ordinance regarding operation and maintenance of the county road system
• Third reading of ordinance regarding unsafe property conditions
• Funding request for replacement and repair of inoperable detention center camera system
• Discussion of comprehensive litter strategy
• Executive session regarding appointments to boards and commissions

The council adopted a revised road ordinance and updated property‑condition definitions. It approved $30,363.10 to replace and repair 19 detention‑center cameras. Several board appointments were made, including three seats on the Bethlehem Roanoke Water Board, a seat on the Public Service Commission, and a seat on the Recreation Funding Advisory Board.

• Adopted second reading of road ordinance (6‑0)
• Adopted third reading to add “trash in yards” definition (4‑1)
• Adopted third reading to remove “trash” from junk definition (4‑1)
• Allocated $30,363.10 for detention‑center camera repairs (5‑0)
• Appointed Matthew Kutilek to Bethlehem Roanoke Water Board (3‑0)
• Appointed Ben Mann and Mike Parrott to Bethlehem Roanoke Water Board (5‑0)
• Appointed Luke Campbell to Public Service Commission (3‑0)
• Appointed Roger Owens to Recreation Funding Advisory Board (5‑0)

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will review two agenda items. First, it will consider revisions to the county's RV parks and campground standards. Second, it will discuss how to define solar farms, commercial lodging, and campgrounds in the Unified Development Ordinance. No decisions have been recorded yet.

• Changes to the RV Parks and Campground Standards
• Defining Solar Farm, Commercial Lodging, and Campground in the UDSO

The Planning Commission unanimously approved the proposed amendments to the RV Parks and Campground Standards and transmitted them to the County Council. It also unanimously approved the new definitions for Solar Farm, Commercial Lodging, and Campground to be included in the Unified Development Standards Ordinance. The motion to approve the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes was rejected (0‑5). All other routine motions, including adjournment, passed unanimously.

• Approved RV Parks and Campground Standards amendments (6‑0)
• Approved definitions for Solar Farm, Commercial Lodging, Campground (6‑0)
• Approved minutes of August 11, 2025 meeting (6‑0)
• Rejected amendment to September 8, 2025 minutes; approval failed (0‑5)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (6‑0)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Emergency Services Advisory Board will approve minutes from its August 11 and September 8, 2025 meetings. It will review the Emergency Services Division report and discuss old business, including the 2026‑2027 budget and EMS topics such as Medic 1 and rescue squads. Committee reports on fire services will be heard, and new business will cover emergency planning for nuclear incidents, winter weather, and wildland fires.

• Approve minutes from August 11, 2025 and September 8, 2025 meetings
• Discuss the 2026‑2027 Emergency Services budget
• EMS discussion covering Medic 1 and rescue squads
• Committee reports on fire services
• New business: emergency planning for nuclear, winter weather, and wildland events

The Emergency Services Advisory Board approved the minutes from the August 11 and September 8, 2025 meetings by unanimous vote. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved August 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 8, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to adjourn passed (unanimous)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Pickens County Behavioral Health Services Board will consider updates on two property matters: contract progress for 311 East Main Street and the sale of 303 East Main Street. Additional agenda items include a drug‑screen testing lab update, a discussion titled "Bridge Pickens," and an evaluation of the Executive Director. The meeting also covers routine reports, old business such as legislative and research updates, and any new business that arises.

• Update on contract progress for 311 East Main Street, Pickens
• Update on sale of 303 East Main Street, Pickens
• Drug screen testing lab update
• Bridge Pickens discussion
• Executive Director’s evaluation

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will discuss tax incentive agreements for companies identified as Project Hawk, Project Hawk II, and Project Hydro. The meeting includes public hearings on ordinances regarding the county road system and unsafe property conditions.

• Inducement resolution for fee-in-lieu of taxes for Project Hawk and Project Hawk II
• Second reading of tax incentive agreements for Project Hawk and Project Hawk II
• Second reading of amended tax incentive agreements for Project Hydro
• Public hearing on road system operation and maintenance ordinances
• Public hearing on ordinances regarding unsafe property conditions

The council unanimously approved a resolution to allow Project Hawk and Hawk II to use fee‑in‑lieu agreements instead of ad valorem taxes. It also approved the second reading of the ordinance authorizing those fee‑in‑lieu agreements, as well as a similar ordinance for Project Hydro. Amendments to Council Organizational Rules Section 7 were adopted, and $35,000 from the Tri‑County Technical College Fund was approved for a feasibility study. Numerous board and commission appointments were confirmed, including Danny Parton to the Library Board District 3 seat.

• Approved Project Hawk fee‑in‑lieu tax resolution (6-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance for Project Hawk fee‑in‑lieu agreements (6-0)
• Approved second reading of ordinance for Project Hydro fee‑in‑lieu agreements (6-0)
• Approved amendment of Council Organizational Rules Section 7(1)(C) (4-2)
• Approved amendment of Council Organizational Rules Section 7(1)(D) (4-2)
• Approved amendment of remainder of Section 7 in Council Organizational Rules (6-0)
• Approved $35,000 expenditure from Tri‑County Technical College Fund for feasibility study (6-0)
• Nominated Danny Parton to Library Board District 3 seat (4-1-1)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board will observe a moment of silence and pledge of allegiance. The board will then sign a State Aid form in the presence of a quorum. No other agenda items are listed.

• Moment of Silence and Pledge of Allegiance
• Sign State Aid form before board quorum

The Library Board discussed the ethics of signing a state‑aid certification and moved to a vote. Ms. Osborn, Dr. Wheeler, and Ms. Childers voted in favor; Dr. Wilson abstained. The motion passed, allowing the document to be signed. Several board members were absent.

• Approved signing state‑aid document (3‑0, 1 abstain)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County Executive Board of Directors will meet to discuss a property offer. The meeting includes a period for public input and an executive session.

• Offer for 303 East Main Street, Pickens Property

The board unanimously approved the agenda as presented. It then approved a counter‑offer of $275,000 for the property at 303 East Main Street, with the seller and purchaser each covering their own closing costs and broker fees, and an attorney hired to verify parking‑space ownership. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved $275,000 counter‑offer for 303 East Main St property with cost‑sharing and title‑search conditions (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council work session will address several items. A resolution to amend council organizational rules regarding boards and commissions will be considered. The council will hold second readings of two ordinances: one updating the county road‑maintenance code and another consolidating unsafe‑property provisions. An executive‑session discussion will cover a proposed contractual agreement for real‑property EMS services.

• Resolution to amend council organizational rules on boards and commissions
• Second reading of ordinance amending the county road‑maintenance code
• Second reading of ordinance consolidating unsafe‑property conditions provisions
• Proposed contractual agreement concerning real‑property EMS services

The council adopted several changes to its organizational rules, including online application language and a waiver provision for long‑term board members (4‑2). A second reading of the county road‑system ordinance passed unanimously (6‑0). The council also approved a new definition of trash (5‑1) and amended the junk definition to remove the word “trash” (4‑2). An executive session was convened but no action was taken on the proposed EMS real‑property contract, and the meeting adjourned.

• Amended Section 7.1(a) to allow online board applications – carried (6‑0)
• Added waiver provision to Section 7.1(d) for 12‑year board service – carried (4‑2)
• Second reading of road‑system ordinance – carried (6‑0)
• Accepted separate definition of trash in Section 19‑35 – carried (5‑1)
• Amended junk definition to remove “trash” from Section 10‑73 – carried (4‑2)
• Convene executive session to discuss EMS real‑property contract – carried (6‑0)
• No action taken on EMS contractual agreement – no vote
• Adjourned meeting – carried (6‑0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board of Trustees will meet to review financial and foundation reports. The board will vote on a request from State Senator Rex Rice to relocate ten specific titles from the Young Adult collection to the Adult collection.

• Vote to move 10 books submitted by State Senator Rex Rice from Young Adult to Adult collection
• Policy clarification regarding a reconsideration request for the book Flamer by Mike Caruto
• Bylaws clarification on nomination and election timeline
• Review of Library Director's financial and foundation reports

The Library Board voted to rescind the earlier decision to relocate ten books from the Young Adult to the Adult collection, with the motion passing 4‑3. The motion was made by Dr. Wilson, seconded by Ms. Childers, and approved by Dr. Wheeler, Ms. Osborn, Ms. Childers, and Dr. Wilson. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from the July 24, 2025 meeting.

• Rescinded prior vote to move ten books from YA to Adult collection (4-3)
• Approved July 24, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Executive Board will approve the agenda and minutes, receive a financial report, and hear program and drug‑screen lab updates. It will receive updates on contract progress for 311 East Main Street, the sale of 303 East Main Street, and improvements at 318 E. Main Street. The board will consider proposed policy changes, including a COVID exposure prevention plan and a social media policy. Additional items include a legislative update, research update, by‑law revisions, and a BHSA board seminar scheduled for early 2026.

• Update on contract progress for 311 East Main Street, Pickens
• Update on sale of 303 East Main Street, Pickens
• Improvements at 318 E. Main Street, Pickens
• Proposed Exposure Prevention and Control Plan (COVID)
• Proposed Social Media Policy

The Board accepted the September 10 agenda, the August 13 Board minutes, and the August 28 Financial Resources Committee minutes, all unanimously. It approved the agency’s projected FY 2026 budget and a recommended staff bonus option, each by unanimous vote. The Board also adopted updates to the COVID Exposure Prevention plan and the Social Media Policy, both unanimously, and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved September 10 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 13 Board meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 28 Financial Resources Committee minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026 projected budget (unanimous)
• Approved recommended staff bonus option (unanimous)
• Approved COVID Exposure Prevention policy update (unanimous)
• Approved Social Media Policy revision (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will address a tabled item regarding Havenwood Ridge. Members will also discuss updated standards for RV parks, campgrounds, hotels, motels, and resorts.

• Tabled Item SD-25-0002: Havenwood Ridge at 106 Angie Ln Easley, SC 29642
• Discussion on RV Parks and Campground Standards
• Discussion on standards for Hotels, Motels, and Resorts

The commission voted not to approve the August 11 minutes. The Havenwood Ridge item was taken off the table, and the proposed subdivision was approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Did not approve August 11, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Removed Havenwood Ridge item from table (6-0)
• Approved Havenwood Ridge subdivision (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board will meet to review reports from the Emergency Services Division and various committees. The board will discuss EMS matters and consider a new ambulance purchase.

• Ambulance purchase
• EMS discussion regarding Medic 1 and Rescue Squads
• Fire Services committee report
• Roads & Bridges update

The Emergency Services Advisory Board recommended and approved an expedited purchase of two new ambulances, with the motion passing without objection. The board noted that August meeting minutes are unavailable and will be submitted next month. Additional reports on staffing, fire services, and road projects were presented but no votes were taken on those items.

• Approved expedited purchase of 2 new ambulances (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (procedural)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold a public hearing and third reading for a fee-in-lieu-of-tax agreement with Project Exodus. The body will also discuss the reassessment rollback millage rate for the 2025-2026 fiscal year and consider ordinances regarding road maintenance and unsafe property conditions.

• Public hearing and third reading of incentive agreements for Project Exodus
• Presentation on the reassessment rollback millage rate for fiscal year July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026
• First reading of ordinance regarding county road system operation and maintenance
• First reading of ordinance regarding unsafe property conditions
• Presentation from Pickens County Animal Shelter

Public Service Commission

The board approved a motion to recommend that the Liberty district representative be removed due to non‑attendance. The motion was made by Farrish, seconded by Tate, and passed unanimously. The board also approved a motion to adjourn the meeting.

• Recommend removal of Liberty district representative (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council will hold a work session to review a staff presentation on abandoned vehicles, pools, overgrown vegetation, trash and junk in yards, and proposed ordinance changes. They will also review existing agreements and contracts with nonprofits and municipalities. In the executive session, the county attorney will provide an update and the council will discuss legal advice regarding the appointment of a person to the Pickens County Library System. Action on executive items will be taken as needed.

• Staff presentation on abandoned vehicles, pools, overgrown vegetation, trash and junk in yards and proposed ordinance changes
• Overview of existing agreements and contracts with nonprofits and municipalities
• County attorney update (personnel matter)
• Legal discussion of appointment to a public body for the Pickens County Library System

The council approved revised language limiting trash, litter and solid waste on property to 30 days and adopted a new definition for junk vehicles, limiting them to two per parcel and requiring they be out of sight. A substitute motion to require abandoned pools to be drained or covered for life‑safety was also adopted. The council unanimously extended a one‑year contract for the county attorney and tasked the attorney to draft a letter to Dr. Wilson and the Library Board. An executive‑session was convened unanimously.

• Adopt revised trash ordinance wording (5-1)
• Adopt new junk‑vehicle definition (5-1)
• Fail to change Section 10-76(c) from 180 to 30 days (3-3)
• Adopt abandoned‑pool ordinance requiring drainage or cover (4-2)
• Convene executive session (6-0)
• Extend county attorney contract for 1 year (6-0)
• Task attorney to draft letter to Dr. Wilson and Library Board (6-0)
• Schedule first reading of ordinance changes for Sept. 2 (no vote recorded)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The board will discuss financial health audit results and staff bonus recommendations. Members will receive updates on properties located on East Main Street in Pickens. The meeting also includes reviews of by-laws and disaster preparedness policies.

• BHSA Agency Financial Health Audit Results
• Contract progress on 311 East Main Street, Pickens
• Sale of 303 East Main Street, Pickens
• Improvements at 318 E. Main Street, Pickens
• Staff bonus recommendation

The board unanimously approved an amendment to move adjournment after the executive session and adopted the June 11 and July 7 meeting minutes. It also unanimously approved a staff bonus, with amounts to be set by the Financial Resources Committee. The board entered an executive session to discuss the Executive Director’s performance evaluation and then adjourned unanimously. Financial reports for May and June 2025 were accepted as information pending audit.

• Amended agenda to move adjournment after executive session – motion carried unanimously
• Approved and adopted June 11 and July 7 meeting minutes – motion carried unanimously
• Approved staff bonus recommendation – motion carried unanimously
• Entered executive session to discuss Executive Director’s performance evaluation – motion carried unanimously
• Adjourned the meeting – motion carried unanimously

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The board will review reports from the Emergency Services Division and fire services committees. Members will discuss EMS operations regarding Medic 1, 4, and 8, as well as rescue squads. The meeting includes an update on bridge response and a presentation on PCEMS history.

• EMS discussion regarding Medic 1, Medic 4, and Medic 8
• Review of Rescue Squads
• Bridge Update & Response report by Billy Gibson
• PCEMS History presentation by Randy Bowers
• Fire Services committee report

The board accepted the July minutes with a unanimous vote. The Emergency Services Division reported updates on medic facilities, a new engine, and volunteer staffing. Road updates noted that Old Seneca Road should reopen soon and Crow Creek Road replacement is planned within two years.

• Accepted July minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on the Ridge at Perry Bend Three project at 4215 Calhoun Memorial Hwy and the Havenwood Ridge project at 106 Angie Ln. The commission will also discuss proposed changes to RV park and campground standards and to standards for hotels, motels, and resorts. Minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting will be approved.

• LU-25-0006 Ridge at Perry Bend Three – 4215 Calhoun Memorial Hwy, Easley, SC
• SD-25-0002 Havenwood Ridge – 106 Angie Ln, Easley, SC
• Proposed changes to RV park and campground standards
• Proposed standards for hotels, motels, and resorts
• Approval of minutes from June 09, 2025

The commission approved the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting. It voted 6‑0 to deny the Ridge at Perry Bend Three development at 4215 Calhoun Memorial Hwy. The Havenwood Ridge proposal at 106 Angie Ln was tabled for further review, also by a 6‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved June 9, 2025 meeting minutes (6-0)
• Denied Ridge at Perry Bend Three project at 4215 Calhoun Memorial Hwy (6-0)
• Tabled Havenwood Ridge proposal at 106 Angie Ln (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council meeting on Aug 11, 2025 includes a second‑reading vote on an ordinance that would allow the county to accept negotiated payments in lieu of ad valorem taxes from Project Exodus and related sponsors. The council will also hear a public hearing and third reading of an amendment to Scenic Highway 11 ordinance to limit industrial activity and expand the natural heritage area. Additional items include a resolution on updated license agreements for communication tower sites at Glassy Mountain and Sassafras Mountain, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a presentation by Library Director Stephanie Howard.

• Second reading of ordinance authorizing fee‑in‑lieu of tax and incentive agreements with Project Exodus
• Public hearing and third reading of amendment to Scenic Highway 11 ordinance #617 to limit industrial activity and increase natural heritage area
• Resolution to update license agreements for communication tower sites at Glassy Mountain and Sassafras Mountain
• Approval of minutes from July 7, July 8, and July 21, 2025 meetings
• Presentation from Pickens County Library Director Stephanie Howard

The council unanimously approved the amended minutes from July 2025. It also approved updated license agreements for communication tower sites at Glassy Mountain and Sassafras Mountain. The body moved a fee‑in‑lie ordinance for Project Exodus to its second reading and advanced a Scenic Highway 11 amendment to its third reading. An executive session was convened, with no actions taken on the items discussed.

• Approved amended minutes for July 7, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved updated license agreements for communication tower sites at Glassy Mountain and Sassafras Mountain (5-0)
• Second reading of Project Exodus fee‑in‑lie ordinance (5-0)
• Third reading of Scenic Highway 11 amendment ordinance (5-0)
• Constituted executive session for personnel and contractual matters (6-0)
• Adjourned the meeting (5-0)

Pickens County Council

The agenda provides a public notice that several Pickens County Council members will be at the South Carolina Association of Counties Annual Conference from August 4 to August 7. The notice clarifies that this attendance does not constitute a formal council meeting. No decisions or votes are scheduled for this session.

• Attendance at SC Association of Counties Annual Conference (Aug 4‑7, 2025)

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board will approve minutes from May 15 and May 20, 2025, hear the Library Director’s report, and consider new business items. Board members will vote to elect a Strategic Plan Committee and to sign a State Aid form before a quorum is present. The meeting will also include discussion of the YA/Teen collection labeling and review of the June Library Survey results.

• Approve minutes from the May 15, 2025 Board meeting
• Approve minutes from the May 20, 2025 Special Called meeting
• Elect a Strategic Plan Committee
• Sign State Aid form in front of Board quorum
• Discuss YA/Teen collection labeling

The board voted unanimously to extend the public comment period so that all twelve participants could speak. They also unanimously approved inviting Senator Rex Rice to address the board. The minutes from the May 15 and May 20, 2025 meetings were each approved unanimously.

• Extend public comment to allow all 12 participants (unanimous approval)
• Invite Senator Rex Rice to speak (unanimous approval)
• Approve May 15, 2025 board meeting minutes (unanimous approval)
• Approve May 20, 2025 special meeting minutes with correction (unanimous approval)

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council work session will outline its goals, examine the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund application, and consider a paid family leave policy. An executive session will address a personnel matter involving the County Attorney. No formal decisions are indicated in the agenda.

• Review of South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund application
• Discussion on paid family leave
• Executive session personnel matter – County Attorney

The council unanimously approved a $209,077 application to the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund. A substitute motion was passed directing Administration and Human Resources to revise the Employee Handbook to include a combined sick/vacation (PTO) policy. The council entered executive session with no action taken, and then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved $209,077 Opioid Recovery Fund application (6-0)
• Directed Administration/Human Resources to draft Employee Handbook with PTO policy (6-0)
• Moved to Executive Session; no action taken (6-0)
• Paid parental leave adoption motion failed (no second)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board will approve the minutes from the June 9, 2025 meeting. The board will hold an EMS discussion covering Medic 1, Medic 4 & 8, and Rescue Squad matters. A presentation on PCEMS history by Randy Bowers and a round‑table with board members are also on the agenda. The next meeting is scheduled for August 11, 2025.

• Approval of minutes from June 9, 2025
• EMS discussion – Medic 1, Medic 4 & 8, Rescue Squads
• PCEMS History presentation by Randy Bowers
• Round Table with board members
• Next meeting set for Monday August 11, 2025 at 6 pm

The Emergency Services Advisory Board accepted the June meeting minutes by a unanimous vote. A motion to adjourn was made, seconded, and the meeting was adjourned at 6:47 PM. No other approvals, denials, or policy actions were recorded.

• Accepted June minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold a workshop on July 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the county administration building. The commission will discuss the RV Park and Campground Ordinance and the County’s Comprehensive Plan. No public input session will be held and no formal actions will be taken during the workshop.

• Discussion of RV Park and Campground Ordinance
• Discussion of the Comprehensive Plan

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council EMS Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to review the procurement process. The body will also review renovation proposals for Medic 8 Station and submitted plans for Medic 1 Station.

• Review of procurement process
• Proposed renovation at Medic 8 Station
• Plans submitted for Medic 1 Station

The EMS Ad Hoc Committee met to discuss updates to the county purchasing policy and several EMS station renovation and replacement projects. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded; staff were asked to draft recommendations for the full Council. The meeting adjourned without any formal actions taken.

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County Board will meet to approve the July 7, 2025 agenda and consider an offer for the 311 East Main Street property. The meeting will conclude with an executive session.

• Approval of July 7, 2025 agenda
• Offer for 311 East Main Street property
• Executive session

The Board adopted the Building Committee’s recommendation to submit a $370,000 counter offer for the property at 311 East Main Street, Pickens. The motion also gave Executive Director Angela Farmer authority to negotiate the price down to $355,000 without further Board approval. The motion was moved by Ernie Dandeneau, seconded by Douglas Clamp, and carried unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved $370,000 counter offer for 311 East Main St (unanimous)
• Authorized Executive Director to negotiate down to $355,000 (unanimous)
• Adopted July 7, 2025 agenda with no changes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will consider several ordinance readings, including a second reading to amend Scenic Highway 11 Ordinance #617 to limit industrial activity and expand the natural heritage area. The meeting also includes a first reading of Resolution 2025-02 approving policies for the Pickens County Conservation Bank and a third reading of Ordinance No. 663 concerning an industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County. Additional items are a presentation from the Clerk of Court, a proposed intergovernmental agreement with Clemson University for municipal court operations, and executive‑session contracts for Project Hydro Amendments, Projects Hawk and Hawk II, and Project Exodus.

• Second reading of amendment to Scenic Highway 11 Ordinance #617 to limit industrial activity and increase natural heritage area
• Third reading of Ordinance No. 663 to amend agreement for an industrial/business park developed with Oconee County
• First reading of Resolution 2025-02 approving policies and procedures for the Pickens County Conservation Bank
• Consideration of an intergovernmental agreement with Clemson University regarding operation of their municipal court
• Executive‑session contracts: Project Hydro Amendments, Projects Hawk and Hawk II, and Project Exodus

The council unanimously approved the amended minutes from June 2025. It added a personnel matter to executive session and approved Resolution 2025-02 for the Conservation Bank policies. The body also approved a second reading amendment to Scenic Highway 11 ordinance and a third reading of Ordinance No. 663. First‑reading motions were adopted for Project Hydro Amendments and Project Hawk and Hawk II, all with unanimous votes.

• Approved June 2 and June 16, 2025 minutes (6-0)
• Added Personnel Matter to Executive Session (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-02 Conservation Bank policies (5-0)
• Approved amendment to Scenic Highway 11 ordinance (second reading) (5-0)
• Approved third reading of Ordinance No. 663 (5-0)
• First reading (title only) of Project Hydro Amendments (5-0)
• First reading (title only) of Project Hawk and Hawk II (5-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Council will hold a work session to discuss the County Attorney update, Conservation Bank rules, and Scenic Highway 11. An executive session is scheduled to discuss a sewer plant update and boards and commissions.

• Conservation Bank rules
• Scenic Highway 11
• Sewer plant update (Executive Session)
• Boards and Commissions (Executive Session)

The council approved an amendment to the Scenic Highway 11 ordinance, striking the paragraph that prohibited industrial uses in the heritage area (vote 5-1). A motion to defer changes to the Conservation Bank rules to the next meeting was adopted unanimously (6-0). The council also denied the Town of Central's request related to a sewer plant update (6-0).

• Amended Scenic Highway 11 ordinance to strike industrial use prohibition (5-1)
• Approved original motion to strike Section 1, 2(c) of Scenic Highway 11 (5-1)
• Deferred Conservation Bank rule changes, lowering funding threshold to $50,000 (6-0)
• Denied Town of Central sewer plant update request (6-0)
• Constituted executive session for contractual and board matters (6-0)
• No action taken on Boards and Commissions item (no vote)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The board will meet to review financial and program reports and conduct annual reviews of policies, procedures, and insurance coverages. The agenda includes updates on the sale of properties on East Main Street in Pickens.

• Sale of Craig Building at 309 East Main Street, Pickens
• Update on the sale of 303 and 311 East Main Street, Pickens
• Annual review of policies and procedures
• Election of officers
• Preparations for CARF Survey 2026

The Board approved the meeting agenda and prior minutes unanimously. It authorized a $292,500 counter‑offer (with a $285,000 minimum) for 303 East Main Street and decided not to pursue litigation over the parking spaces behind that property. The Board also accepted the annual reviews of policies and insurance coverages and elected new officers for the upcoming term.

• Approved June 11 agenda and May 14 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved initial counter offer $285,000 for 303 East Main St (unanimous)
• Amended counter offer to $292,500 with $285,000 floor (unanimous)
• Decided not to pursue legal action over parking spaces behind 303 East Main St (unanimous)
• Accepted annual review of policies and procedures (unanimous)
• Accepted annual review of insurance coverages, pending property insurance changes (unanimous)
• Elected Tobias Vogel as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Pam Winters as Vice‑Chairman (unanimous)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board meets on June 9, 2025 to approve the May 12, 2025 minutes and receive the Emergency Services Division report. The board will discuss old business items such as EMS, Medic 1, Medic 4 & 8, rescue squads, fire services, and the budget. New business and a round‑table update will also be considered.

• Approval of minutes from May 12, 2025
• Emergency Services Division report
• Discussion of Medic 1
• Discussion of Medic 4 & 8
• Budget discussion

The board voted to accept the May meeting minutes, with all members in favor. No other substantive actions or approvals were taken during the session. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion that passed.

• Accepted May meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three land-use requests for campgrounds. The commission is also scheduled to elect its officers.

• LU-25-0002 Novel Woods Campground at 9013 Whitmire Rd
• LU-25-0003 The Tableview Campground at 265 Liberia Rd
• LU-25-0004 String Light Cottages Campground at 2940 Walhalla Hwy
• Election of Planning Commission Officers

The commission elected Michael Watson as chair, Kelsey Crooks as vice chair, and Planning Staff as secretary, each by a 7‑0 vote. It approved three campground applications: Novel Woods (7‑0), Tableview (7‑0), and String Light Cottages (6‑1) with a required emergency evacuation plan. Commissioners also scheduled a workshop on RV parks, campgrounds, and annexation for July 14. The meeting was adjourned at 9:50 pm.

• Elected Michael Watson as Chair (7-0)
• Elected Kelsey Crooks as Vice Chair (7-0)
• Elected Planning Staff as Secretary (7-0)
• Approved Novel Woods Campground LU-25-0002 with conditions (7-0)
• Approved Tableview Campground LU-25-0003 with conditions (7-0)
• Approved String Light Cottages Campground LU-25-0004 with emergency plan condition (6-1)
• Scheduled Planning Commission workshop for July 14
• Adjourned meeting (7-0)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will conduct a third reading of Ordinance No. 661, which proposes a budget amendment with revenue and expenditure changes for the fiscal year July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. The meeting also includes a third reading of Ordinance No. 662 to levy taxes for ordinary county purposes for FY 2025‑2026, and a public hearing of Ordinance No. 663 concerning an industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County. Additional items are a water authority update, discussion of accommodations tax funding for the Dacusville Heritage Association, and executive‑session contract matters.

• Third reading of Ordinance No. 661 – budget amendment for FY 2024‑2025
• Third reading of Ordinance No. 662 – tax levy for FY 2025‑2026
• Public hearing and second reading of Ordinance No. 663 – industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County
• Update from Pickens County Water Authority
• Consideration of accommodations tax funding for Dacusville Heritage Association

The council adopted the third reading of the FY 2025‑2026 budget, passing it with a 4‑2 vote after adding several amendments. Amendments approved include $216,000 for Tri‑County Technical College, moving the sheriff’s dispatchers back to the county budget, and allocating $4,500 to the Dacusville Heritage Association. The EMS Ad Hoc Committee was extended to the end of September, and several ordinances and project resolutions were approved unanimously.

• Approved third reading of budget ordinance (4-2)
• Approved $216,000 addition for Tri‑County Technical College (6-0)
• Approved reallocation of sheriff’s dispatchers to county budget (6-0)
• Allocated $4,500 to Dacusville Heritage Association (6-0)
• Extended EMS Ad Hoc Committee to end September (6-0)
• Approved second reading of Ordinance No. 663 (6-0)
• Approved first reading of Project Flap FILOT (6-0)
• Adopted Inducement Resolution for Project Blackhawk (6-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to elect board officers and discuss the director evaluation process and forms. The board will also consider changes to meeting dates for July and September.

• Library Board officer elections
• Director evaluation process and forms
• Rescheduling July 17th meeting to July 24th in Easley
• Rescheduling September 18th meeting to September 11th in Pickens

The Board changed its July meeting to July 24 and September meeting to September 11, both unanimously. Members voted 4‑3 to elect Lori Osborn as Chair and Alfred Wheeler as Vice Chair. A motion to hold a work session for the strategic plan was approved unanimously, and plans were set for community and staff surveys to support the upcoming evaluation process. The meeting was adjourned at 7:33 pm.

• Change July board meeting date to July 24 – unanimous approval
• Change September board meeting date to September 11 – unanimous approval
• Elect Chair – Lori Osborn (4‑3)
• Elect Vice Chair – Alfred Wheeler (4‑3)
• Approve work session for strategic plan – unanimous approval
• Plan community survey to be launched by June 1 – agreed
• Plan staff HR survey to be ready by end of June – agreed
• Adjourn meeting – unanimous approval

Mid Month Meeting

The Pickens County Council will hold a public hearing and conduct the third reading of an ordinance that would allow fee‑in‑lie tax and incentive agreements, as well as a reimbursement agreement, with SC Speedway Hwy 124 LLC. The council will also hear a presentation from Alliance Pickens on economic incentive programs. Additionally, the FY‑26 capital budget will be presented by the vehicle maintenance department, followed by a presentation of the FY‑26 operations budget.

• Public hearing and third reading of ordinance authorizing fee‑in‑lie tax and incentive agreements and a reimbursement agreement with SC Speedway Hwy 124 LLC
• Presentation by Alliance Pickens on economic incentive programs
• FY‑26 capital budget presentation by vehicle maintenance
• FY‑26 operations budget presentation

The council adopted a third‑reading ordinance allowing fee‑in‑lieu agreements with SC Speedway Hwy 124, LLC. It approved a 4% cost‑of‑living increase and a 1% step increase for all county employees except the administrator and council. The library budget of $4,357,059 was approved, and the overall FY 26 budget was adopted with permanent and unlimited temporary positions for each department.

• Approved third reading of ordinance for fee‑in‑lieu and reimbursement agreements with SC Speedway Hwy 124, LLC (6‑0)
• Approved 4% COLA and 1% step increase for all county employees, excluding Administrator and Council (6‑0)
• Approved library budget of $4,357,059 at third reading (5‑1)
• Rejected amendment to add part‑time PR position for the library (no second)
• Approved FY 26 budget structure to list permanent full‑time, part‑time, and unlimited temporary positions for each department (6‑0)
• Adjourned the work session (6‑0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Pickens County Library Board of Trustees will review the FY26 budget updates and conduct officer elections. The meeting includes a public comment period, approval of the March 20, 2025 minutes, and a reconsideration appeal for the book "Sold" by Patricia McCormick. An update on the Youth (Under 18) Library Card Application rollout will also be provided.

• Approval of March 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Library Board officer elections
• Reconsideration appeal for "Sold" by Patricia McCormick
• FY26 library budget updates
• Updates to Youth (Under 18) Library Card Application rollout

The board voted 5‑1 to approve the March 20, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to allow all 16 public commenters to speak for three minutes each failed, keeping the limit at ten speakers. The proposal to rename the 13‑17 age section to “Teen” was sent to the July agenda for further discussion. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (5‑1)
• Motion to allow 16 participants speak failed; limit set to 10 participants
• Motion to rename teen section to “Teen” postponed to July agenda

Behavorial Health Services of Pickens County

The Behavioral Health Services of Pickens County board will consider a lease proposal for 303 East Main Street and the sale of the Craig Building at 309 East Main Street. They will also review the renewal of a non‑dispensing pharmacy permit that is due June 1. Additional agenda items include financial, program and new facility reports, as well as legislative and research updates.

• Lease proposal for 303 East Main Street, Pickens
• Sale of Craig Building at 309 East Main Street, Pickens (Building Committee)
• Renewal of LLR non‑dispensing pharmacy permit (due June 1)

The board adopted the April 9, 2025 minutes unanimously and rejected a 30‑year owner‑financing lease for 303 East Main St. It approved the sale of the Craig Building at 309 East Main St to Keystone Properties by a 4‑3 vote. The board also restored the Building Committee to operative status and authorized special Zoom meetings for time‑sensitive votes.

• Adopted April 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Rejected 30‑year owner‑financing lease proposal for 303 East Main St (unanimous)
• Approved sale of Craig Building at 309 East Main St to Keystone Properties (4‑3)
• Submitted renewal application for Non‑Dispensing Pharmacy Permit (by June 1, 2025)
• Moved to adjourn regular meeting and enter Executive Session (unanimous)
• Restored Building Committee to operative status and allowed special Zoom meetings for urgent votes (unanimous)
• Adjourned Executive Session (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The board will review reports from the Emergency Services Division and discuss the 1% tax committee. The meeting includes discussions on specific EMS units and fire services budgeting.

• 1% tax committee discussion
• EMS discussion regarding Medic 1, Medic 4, and Medic 8
• Review of Rescue Squads and Fire Services budget
• Emergency Services Division report by Billy Gibson

The board voted to accept the minutes from the March and April meetings, passing the motion unanimously. A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and approved. No other substantive actions or approvals were recorded.

• Accepted March and April minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold public hearings and vote on a budget amendment for the current fiscal year and a tax levy ordinance for the upcoming fiscal year. The body will also consider a third reading of an ordinance regarding a joint industrial park with Oconee County and amendments to the county code regarding litter control.

• Public hearing and second reading of Ordinance No. 661: Budget amendment for FY 2024-2025
• Public hearing and second reading of Ordinance No. 662: Tax levy for FY 2025-2026
• Public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 658: Joint industrial park with Oconee County
• Public hearing and third reading of ordinance amending Chapter 34: Litter control
• Approval of April 7, 2025, and April 21, 2025, council meeting minutes

The council approved several ordinances, including the first reading of an industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County and the second reading of a budget amendment ordinance. Members voted 4-2 to move library operations into the general fund, withdraw a previously offered $1 million capital loan, and to lower the property tax rate from 9.9 mils to 5.3 mils. Additional actions included third‑reading approvals for the joint industrial park ordinance and a litter‑control ordinance amendment, and unanimous allocations of recreation funding to Dacusville and the City of Liberty.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved first reading title only of industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County (6-0)
• Approved second reading of budget amendment ordinance No. 661 (6-0)
• Approved amendment moving library operations to general fund and withdrawing $1 M capital loan (4-2)
• Approved amendment lowering property tax rate from 9.9 mils to 5.3 mils (4-2)
• Approved third reading of joint industrial/business park ordinance No. 658 (6-0)
• Approved third reading amendment to litter‑control ordinance, extending response time to 30 days (6-0)
• Approved recreation funding: $34,500 to Dacusville Recreation and $50,550 to City of Liberty Recreation (6-0)

Mid Month Meeting

The Council will hold a work session to conduct a second reading of an ordinance regarding litter control. Members will also review funding applications for opioid recovery, recreation, and accommodations tax.

• Second reading of an ordinance amending Chapter 34 of the Code of Ordinances for litter control
• Recommendation from the EMS Ad Hoc Committee
• Review of South Carolina Opioid Recover funding applications
• Review of Recreation funding applications
• Review of Accommodations Tax funding applications

The council unanimously approved the second reading of an ordinance adding litter‑control provisions. It also approved EMS upgrades for Medic stations and a letter of recommendation for three opioid‑recover funding applicants. All recreation‑funding requests for districts 1‑6 were approved, and the accommodations‑tax funding recommendations—including a $10,000 reallocation—were adopted. The Prisma Health recommendation was approved with one abstention.

• Second reading of ordinance amending Chapter 34 for litter control approved (6-0)
• Motion to proceed with Medic 4, Medic 8 upgrades and Medic 1 planning approved (6-0)
• Letter of recommendation for three opioid‑recover funding applicants approved (6-0)
• Recreation funding approvals for Districts 1‑6 totaling $331,027.80 approved (6-0)
• Reallocation of $10,000 from Lake Hartwell Country to Clemson Chamber approved (6-0)
• 65% accommodations‑tax funding recommendations totaling $248,317 approved (6-0)
• Prisma Health recommendation approved (5-0, 1 abstention)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council EMS Ad Hoc Committee will convene to receive an update from staff regarding the locations of emergency medical services stations. The meeting is a procedural gathering to comply with state open-meeting laws.

• EMS station location update from staff
• Committee meeting to discuss emergency services

The council heard an update on the proposed FY26 budget for the Emergency Services Department. Members discussed a 24.8% increase in EMS funding, vehicle upgrades, and several renovation projects. No formal approvals, denials, or votes were recorded during the meeting.

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board will review and discuss the upcoming budget for emergency services. The meeting includes a report from the Emergency Services Division and updates on Table Rock Fire. Additional topics include the 1% tax committee, EMS and fire services discussions, and planning for EMS Week.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes
• Emergency Services Division report
• Discussion of the 1% tax committee
• Updates on Table Rock Fire and fire services
• Review of the emergency services budget

The Pickens County Emergency Services Advisory Board met on April 14, 2025 and reviewed reports on radio systems, FEMA reimbursements, and fire incidents. No approvals, denials, or policy changes were made; the only formal action was a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and carried. All other agenda items were discussed or deferred for future meetings.

• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Pickens County Council

The Council will discuss budget amendments and the levy of taxes for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. The meeting includes votes on incentive agreements for SC Speedway Hwy 124, LLC and a joint industrial park with Oconee County.

• Ordinance No. 662: Levy of taxes for ordinary county purposes for fiscal year 2025-2026
• Ordinance No. 659: Fee in lieu of tax and infrastructure reimbursement for SC Speedway Hwy 124, LLC
• Ordinance No. 658: Jointly owned industrial/business park with Oconee County (Project Shaker)
• Ordinance No. 660: Public hearing to add property in Oconee County to the joint industrial park
• Proposed ordinance amending Chapter 34 of the County Code regarding litter control

The council approved the minutes from previous meetings unanimously. It lifted the Table Rock fire state of emergency and funded the chosen repair option for the Stockade Wastewater Treatment Plant at a cost of $1.012 million. Several ordinances were advanced through first, second, and third readings, all passing unanimously except one second‑reading that passed 5‑1. A proposal to place a 1% EMS consumption tax on the 2026 ballot was referred to the EMS AD HOC Committee after a 2‑4 vote.

• Approved March 3, March 10, and March 24 minutes (6-0)
• Lifted Table Rock fire state of emergency (6-0)
• Funded Stockade Wastewater Treatment Plant Option D, $1.012 M (6-0)
• First reading (title only) of Ordinance 661 (budget amendment) (6-0)
• Second reading of Ordinance 659 (fee in lieu of tax) (5-1)
• Second reading of Ordinance 658 (joint industrial park with Oconee) (6-0)
• Third reading of Ordinance amending Ordinance 535 (recreation funds) (6-0)
• EMS 1% consumption tax proposal referred to EMS AD HOC Committee (2-4)

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold a workshop on March 31, 2025 at 6:00 PM. Staff will discuss regulations for RVs, tiny homes, and the Highway 11 ordinance, as well as Oconee’s Lake Overlay District requested by a member of the public. No formal actions will be taken during this workshop.

• Discussion of RV regulations
• Discussion of tiny home regulations
• Discussion of Highway 11 ordinance
• Discussion of Oconee’s Lake Overlay District

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold an orientation and tour at Wesleyan Camp in Table Rock State Park on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 9:00 to 9:45 a.m. The event is not a formal meeting, but a public notice is provided because council members present may constitute a quorum.

• Orientation/Tour at Wesleyan Camp, Table Rock State Park, 9:00‑9:45 a.m., March 29 2025

ATAX Committee

The Pickens County ATAX Committee will review the 2025 applications submitted to the committee. It will then formalize its recommendations to the County Council. The meeting also includes routine items such as setting the next meeting date and adjournment.

• Review 2025 ATAX applications
• Formalize recommendations to County Council
• Set next meeting date (if needed)

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council held a work session to discuss the fiscal year 2026 budget. Council members also reviewed South Carolina House Bill H.3858 and Senate Bill S.317. No decisions were recorded in the agenda.

• Discussion of FY26 county budget
• Review of South Carolina House Bill H.3858
• Review of South Carolina Senate Bill S.317

The Pickens County Council unanimously approved a motion to add a Table Rock Mountain fire briefing to the meeting agenda. Administrator Roper briefed members on the fire, which had burned over 1,058 acres and caused road hazards. The council then unanimously voted to adjourn the session.

• Added Table Rock fire briefing to agenda (6-0)
• Adjourned meeting (6-0)

Library Board of Trustees

The Board of Trustees will meet to review the FY26 library budget and address reconsideration appeals for two specific book titles. The board is also scheduled to discuss updates to library bylaws and officer nominations.

• Reconsideration appeal for The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison
• Reconsideration appeal for Brave Face by Shaun David Hutchinson
• Library Budget FY26
• Update to Library Bylaws
• Collection Development Policy

During the March 20, 2025 meeting, Mr. Wilson moved to allow all 19 participants to speak, and Ms. Miller made a motion to adopt that change. The motion was seconded by Mr. Wilson and received unanimous approval. Earlier motions to adjust speaking time limits failed.

• Unanimously approved motion to allow all 19 participants to speak during public comment

Emergency Services Advisory Board

The Emergency Services Advisory Board will review reports from the Emergency Services Division and discuss EMS costs, locations, and funding. The board will also address fire services personnel, contracts, and future locations.

• 1% tax committee report
• EMS costs, locations, and funding discussion
• Fire services personnel and contracts discussion
• Update on Six Mile Mountain Fire
• Update on search for missing camper

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will conduct a second reading of an amendment to Ordinance 535, which sets procedures for allocating recreation funds. The council will also discuss county employee pay, retention and training, consider a litter ordinance, and review matters related to the sewer plant.

• Second reading of amendment to Ordinance 535 – recreation fund allocation procedures
• Discussion of county employee pay, retention, and training
• Consideration of a litter ordinance
• Discussion of sewer plant issues

Recreation Funding Board

The Recreation Funding Advisory Board will review submitted applications, decide on a funding recommendation, and outline follow‑up procedures. No specific projects or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Discussion of applications
• Set funding recommendation
• Follow‑up procedure

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold its regular meeting, including a public forum and approval of February minutes. Council members will take a first reading of an ordinance to amend recreation‑fund procedures and a second reading of two ordinances: one to amend the joint industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County, and another to authorize a fee‑in‑lieu of tax agreement for Project Pigeon. Additional items include discussion of the FY26 budget calendar, a lease for Warpath Landing, and executive‑session matters such as a master fee agreement for Speedway Industrial Park.

• First reading of ordinance amending Ordinance 535 to set procedures for allocating recreation funds
• Second reading of ordinance amending the joint industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County
• Second reading of ordinance authorizing a fee‑in‑lieu of tax agreement for Project Pigeon
• Consideration of the FY26 budget calendar
• Executive session: master fee agreement for Speedway Industrial Park

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council EMS Ad Hoc Committee will meet to review potential locations and alternatives for a new station. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 6:30 PM.

• EMS station location alternatives update
• EMS Ad Hoc Committee meeting
• Meeting at County Administration Facility

Mid Month Meeting

The council will consider accepting a $1.5 million grant from the South Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority, together with a $300,000 county contribution, to fund a $1.85 million waterline extension for the Commerce Park. The meeting will also review the county’s recycling centers and related solid‑waste issues. Finally, council members will develop guidelines for allocating annual recreation funds.

• Accept $1.5 million SC Rural Infrastructure Authority grant and $300,000 county funds for $1.85 million Commerce Park waterline extension
• Assess and review recycling centers and ancillary solid waste matters
• Create guidelines for allocating annual recreation funding

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold a work session to discuss grant funding for a waterline project. Members will also review recycling centers and establish guidelines for allocating annual recreational funds.

• Commerce Park waterline extension funded by $1.5 million SC Rural Infrastructure Authority grant and $300,000 from Pickens County
• Assessment and review of recycling centers and solid waste issues
• Creation of guidelines for allocating annual recreational funds

Pickens County Council

The EMS Ad Hoc Committee will meet to elect a chair and receive a presentation on staff and facility needs. The meeting includes a joint session with the Emergency Services Advisory Board to discuss EMS requirements.

• Election of EMS Ad Hoc Committee Chair
• Staff presentation on EMS staff and facility needs
• Joint meeting with Emergency Services Advisory Board

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will review and act on a 101‑lot single‑family subdivision proposal (SDV‑25‑0001) and a request for an access exclusion for a single‑family residence at TPM# 4165‑00‑30‑8068. The meeting also includes approval of the January 13, 2025 minutes and a discussion of a new Pickens County Emergency Services Building. Public comments are invited on any relevant topics not listed on the agenda.

• SDV-25-0001 – 101 Lot Single-Family Subdivision
• Request for Access Exclusion for Single-Family Residence at TPM# 4165-00-30-8068
• Approval of January 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Discussion of new Pickens County Emergency Services Building

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold a workshop on February 3, 2025, to discuss the Highway 11 Ordinance and the RV Park and Campground Ordinance.

• Workshop to discuss Highway 11 Ordinance
• Workshop to discuss RV Park and Campground Ordinance

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will conduct a public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 657 to convey county property to the entity known as Project Pigeon. The council will also consider a first‑reading amendment to the joint industrial/business park agreement with Oconee County, adopt new council organizational rules, and decide on accepting opioid fund monies for a jail program and grant funding for a commerce park waterline. Executive‑session items such as the Speedway Project Fee Agreement, Project Oler, and Project Pigeon will be discussed in closed session before any public vote.

• Public hearing and third reading of Ordinance No. 657 to convey property to Project Pigeon
• First‑reading amendment to the agreement for a joint industrial/business park with Oconee County
• Adoption of council organizational rules
• Acceptance of opioid fund monies for a jail program
• Acceptance of grant funding for a commerce park waterline

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will open the meeting with a welcome and invocation, adopt council organizational rules, and consider applications for emergency recreation funding. An executive session will be held to receive board and commission applications under South Carolina Code of Laws §30-4-70(a). The council will then take any needed actions arising from the executive session before adjourning.

• Emergency recreation funding request applications
• Board and commission applications (executive session)
• Council organizational rules

Planning Commission

The Pickens County Planning Commission will hold a meeting to elect officers and review several land use and subdivision items. The body will consider actions on a site RV park and multiple phases of a multi-use park.

• LU-24-0009 Hagan 22 Site RV Park
• SDV-24-0003 Subdivision Variance April Valley Lane
• LU-24-0010 Phase 2 Speedway Multi-Use Park
• LU-24-0011 Phase 3 Speedway Multi-Use Park

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold a work session and an executive session focused on personnel matters. The meeting is scheduled for January 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Emergency Operations Center.

• Work session and executive session on personnel matters
• Meeting location: Emergency Operations Center, County Administration Building
• Meeting date: January 13, 2025
• Chairman: Alex Saitta
• Council members: Chris Lollis, Dr. A.D. Holloway, C. Claiborne Linvill, Scott Lang, Chris Bowers

Pickens County Council

The Pickens County Council will hold an organizational meeting to elect its Chair, Vice Chair, and Vice Chair Pro Tempore. Council members will also approve chair appointments, adopt a meeting schedule, and consider plans for a council retreat. The meeting follows the swearing‑in ceremony and is chaired by County Attorney Les Hendricks.

• Election of Chair
• Election of Vice Chair
• Election of Vice Chair Pro Tempore
• Chair appointments
• Council meeting schedule