by Melissa McCoy
The Manning City Council convened for its regular meeting on October 8, 2024, addressing several key agenda items, including a denied zoning ordinance, two approved resolutions, and departmental updates.
Mayor Julia Nelson welcomed attendees, followed by an invocation led by Councilmember Rev. Ervin L. Davis and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Councilmember Clayton Pack. The minutes from the September 10 regular meeting and the September 14 work session were reviewed and approved.
Among the presentations, Angelia Johnson, a Community Programs Loan Specialist from the USDA’s South Carolina Office of Rural Development, presented a letter of conditions outlining funds for the city’s essential services. The Fire Department is set to receive $29,700 for radios, while the Police Department will receive $50,000 each for radios and vehicles. Mayor Nelson also read a proclamation recognizing Fire Prevention Week.
A zoning ordinance proposal to rezone property located at 205 South Boundary Street from Office Commercial (OC) to General Commercial (GC) was brought forward for the first reading. The ordinance, concerning property owned by Donald Ard, was denied by the council.
However, two resolutions were unanimously approved. The first resolution authorized the city to assume a claim deductible with the South Carolina Municipal Insurance and Risk Financing Fund (SCMIRF). This resolution sets deductibles of $5,000 for general liability, auto liability, public officials’ liability, and law enforcement liability, and $10,000 for property, auto physical damage, and inland marine claims. This decision is aimed at reducing insurance costs while sharing the risk of paying claims.
The second resolution declared surplus property, including a 2011 Dodge Charger from the Police Department with over 137,000 miles, and granted authorization for the city to sell the vehicle. The council noted that the vehicles and equipment were no longer beneficial for municipal purposes and would be disposed of in a manner consistent with South Carolina law.
Council also approved the purchase of radio-read meters for the Utility Department at a cost of $150,000, ensuring more efficient meter reading and utility management.
The meeting concluded with reports from the Mayor and the city administrator, including departmental updates provided to the council in advance.
