West Pelzer swears in new police chief

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During their September meeting Tuesday, West Pelzer Town Council approved a resolution supporting three new four way stops in the town, denied rezoning of property for a day care, revised the business license ordinance.

Two letters to the town were read by Clerk Paula Payton.
One opposed re-zoning of property on Park Steet, stating that the property was too close for commercial zoning. The second opposed rezoning to allow a day care exception on Park Street.

Newly appointed Police Chief Scott Stoller was officially sworn in during the meeting.

A public hearing was held on a proposal for three intersections in the town to be made four way stops.

One person spoke against the proposal stating she saw no need for the new stops.

Mayor Blake Sanders, who attended the meeting virtually, said more people are using the streets as “cut through” streets and the move will improve safety. Councilman Johnny Rogers also said the stops were needed because of a safety concern for persons walking on Holiday Street and to slow traffic.

Following the public hearing, Council unanimously approve a resolution in support of the four way stops at the intersections of Holiday/Marguerite; Hindman/Park and Dendy/Welborn.

Council also approved first reading on a zoning change for .8 acres nearest 17 Park St. from Core Commercial to Residential (R15).

Council approved a revised business license ordinance which repealed and replace the current ordinance. The change provides for a standard business license in SC to run from May 1 to April 30. For West Pelzer businesses, the change moved the due date from the end of May to end of April. Second reading will be held at the October meeting.

Council also approved a resolution to postpone residential landlord business license fees for 2021. Payton said due to state and federal COVID mandates, some landlords were not able to collect fees in 2020. She said the postponement only applies to residential properties. Commercial business licenses were sent out and received, she said.

Council denied a request for an zoning exception to allow an in-home day care at 8 Park St. The town’s zoning ordinance discourages commercial activity in residential neighborhoods due to the impact of additional traffic, signage and noise. The zoning ordinance allows the applicant to submit the request for a hearing at a circuit court if denied by the town.

Council approved a request by the Planning Commission for funding for an updated Comprehensive Plan and Master Plan. The update is required every five years. Mayor Sanders said American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) the town will receive will pay for the update.

Council also approved a resolution authorizing the mayor to act as the representative to accept the ARP funding when it becomes available.
The town clerk will be the contact.

The Town of West Pelzer recognized B. Taylor Harrison for her art display in “The Grand Gallery”. A reception followed the council meeting.

The New Gallery art by Harrison will be on view from September 7 through October 19 by appointment during regular business hours.

Artist recognized
West Pelzer Mayor Pro-Tem Jim Riddle recognized artist B. Taylor Harrison during the council meeting Tuesday. Harrison is the first artist to display in 2021 in “The Grand Gallery”. A reception followed the council meeting.

Stoller sworn in
West Pelzer’s newly appointed Police Chief Scott Stoller was officially sworn in Tuesday. Judge Mary Frances Cole administered the Oath of Office. Stoller’s daughter Kathleen held the Bible.