During their September 13 meeting, Pelzer Town Council heard an update on a new crime watch program, entertained information on a cell tower lease and voted to accept seven properties into the town.
The petitions of annexation were presented to Council under the 100 percent method and included five residences, one commercial property and one church.
Properties being annexed include a tract on Smyth St. owned by Roger Scott; 18 Front St. owned by Steven and Heather Holcombe; 29 Goodrich owned by Gilbert Garrett; 5 Reed St., Pelzer First Baptist; 3 Hale St., McCarter; 6 Goodrich, Scott Larsen and 5 Goodrich, Annette Larsen.
During recent months, town officials have heard from several residents interested in having their properties brought into the town. Some of those residents have organized a group to look into the requirements and costs.
During the meeting, one of those residents, Gilbert Garrett, recommended the town consider appointing a committee of residents who can provide accurate information about the benefits and responsibilities of being a part of the town.
Town Administrator Skip Watkins updated Council on proposed lease options from two companies for use of the cell phone tower located at the ballfields.
Watkins presented information on options from Tri Star and American Tower. Depending on who they go with, either company would pay the town a monthly or yearly fee to use the tower.
The town has the option of signing long term (10 year) agreements with the companies who then resell use of the tower to cell phone companies and other service providers.
Options include whether to have money up front and then a monthly rental payment, a revenue share option or a fixed fee option.
Representatives of each company will be asked to come to a future council meeting to discuss specifics of each proposal.
In other actions, Council approved a resolution of interest to look into whether obtaining water from Williamston is cost effective. The town is also looking into possible savings by renegotiating with their current provider, Greenville Water.
Council approved a resolution recognizing Sept. 17-23 as Constitution Week.
Councilmenmber Cheryl Boudreau mentioned several areas where she thought the town could cut costs.
First on her list is the town’s swimming pool. She also questioned attorney fees and mileage reimbursements to councilmembers.
Councilmember Donna Ide asked about tall grass in some areas. Watkins mentioned that the old rescue squad building is falling in.
Larry Coker asked about insurance for the fall festival.
Gilbert Garrett mentioned that there is a dead tree in the park that needs attention.
At the beginning of the meeting, Boudreau updated council on the recently implemented Crime Watch Program.
Boudreau said participants are organizing block groups with a designated captain who will contact the sheriff’s office when there is a problem.
“People are starting to take notice,” said Boudreau. “It will put a damper on these things.”
The meetings include speakers and sharing of information. Meetings will held on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Pelzer Community Building until further notice. Anyone interested is invited to attend.
