West Pelzer appoints new municipal judge, approves 2023 meeting schedule

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West Pelzer Town Council appointed a new municipal judge, approved International Building Codes and their 2023 meeting schedule.
West Pelzer Town Clerk Paula Payton announced that she has been appointed to the SC Municipal Finance Officers, Clerks and Treasurers Association (MFOCTA) Board.
MFOCTA offers training programs throughout the year covering the wide range of responsibilities of finance officers, clerks and treasurers.
One of the Association’s main goals is to provide municipal elected officials and staff with the services that help them most efficiently and effectively operate their municipalities. Municipal clerks play a critical role in support of the mayor, city council and other administrative positions.
During the Clerk’s report, Payton reported that the Town’s new Master Plan is complete and will be presented to Council at the December 13 meeting.
Payton said that residents are using the new TextMyGov service the Town has implemented. The service offers a way for the Town to connect with citizens by text, she said.
Residents can text 864.864.8030 to find information and report issues about the town. Residents can text 91896 to receive text message alerts and notifications from the town.
Payton also announced that West Pelzer received $2,500 from District 7 County Councilwoman Cindy Wilson which will be used for improvements at the O’Dell Community Center. The Town also received $2,500 to help fund the fall festival and Christmas Parade.
West Pelzer Police Chief Scott Stoller announced that he and Officer Christine Cauthen were recently recognized by South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster for their life-saving administrations of the overdose reversing medication, naloxone (Narcan) in several emergency situations.
Council approved Steven Turner to serve as the Town’s Municipal Judge. Councilman Lee, who served on the selection committee said the decision was not made lightly and that the committee had interviewed two candidates. Lee said the committee recommended appointing Turner, because it was “the most reasonable decision for the town.”
The Municipal Judge position is a four year term.
Turner was approved with a 3-0 vote. Councilman Jim Riddle, who served on the committee was not present. Councilwoman Pat Alexander abstained from the vote.
Mayor Blake Sanders said the selection committee interviewed multiple candidates for the position. He thanked current Municipal Judge Mary Cole for her service to the town through several police chiefs and the pandemic. “Judge Cole has offered to continue to be a part of the process through the transition period,” he said.
Judge Cole will continue to serve through mid-January and will continue to serve as a County Magistrate.
Council approved adoption of the International Building Codes. The ordinance brings the Town in compliance with State Law.
Council approved the 2023 meeting schedule which continues meetings at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Meeting dates are subject to change.
Mayor Sanders announced that the Palmetto High FFA Farm Day will be held in Chapman Park on November 19. The Christmas Parade will be held at 5:30 pm on December 3.
Councilwoman Pat Alexander announced that she will be moving to Williamston and will be resigning her seat on Council. “I really enjoyed being on Council and serving the Town,” she said.