Williamston Town Council approves property annexation, recognizes new police chief

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During their meeting Monday, Williamston Town Council approved second reading on annexation of Tri-County Tech property, accepted two Police Department donations and recognized a new Police Chief.
Former Police Captain and Interim Chief Kevin Marsee was recognized as the new Williamston Police Chief and officially sworn in. Mayor Burgess said he was honored that Marsee accepted the position. (See separate story)
Timothy Self of AnMed and Greg Shore of Medshore Ambulance Service presented a donation of three AEDs to the Williamston Police Department. The AEDs are valued at $2500 each. Williamston Police Chief Kevin Marsee said police officers are often first responders and the devices are life-saving. He thanked Shore and Self for the donations.
Shore said as first responders, police officers often use NARCAN on drug overdose victims and the AEDs can now be used by officers when there is a cardiac arrest situation. He said the donation is a partnership AnMed Health and Medshore Ambulance have with the Williamston Police Department.
Jackson Stanley Realtors and Kenneth Rhodes Insurance Agency also made a donation of two sets of stop sticks to the Williamston Police Department. Mayor Rockey Burgess said the donation helped with an unbudgeted need and the stop sticks will be very useful if needed during a pursuit. Officer Chris Trotter was instrumental in working with Jackson Stanley and Kenneth Rhodes Agency in obtaining the donation. Carolann Newton of Jackson Stanley said, “Thank you for all you do.”
Envision Williamston Executive Director Roberta Hamby updated Council on the Winter Wonderland. Hamby said, “Other than a few minor exceptions, Winter Wonderland was near perfect.” She said it takes a whole year to plan the event. She thanked everyone who helped make it a success, especially the Williamston Police Department.
Hamby recognized Weston Pack and Julia Wagner of the Upward Leadership program at Palmetto High School, who helped with the event.
Hamby said applications for the Griswold decorating contest will be accepted through Dec. 16 and the Spring Concert Series sponsored by State Farm Ortiz Agency is being planned.
Hamby also stated that the Envision Williamston Board is requesting the 501C3 Envision Williamston organization be allowed to lease Mineral Spring Park for the remainder of the holidays to better coordinate displays and decorating and “for the good of the town”.

Debbie Chapman and Roberta Hamby announced Christmas Parade winners and recognized those attending the meeting including: Fire Chief David Huff of Williamston Fire Department, Melanie Dugan and Carolann Newton of Jackson Stanley Realtors,
Council approved second reading on an annexation request of Tri County Technical college property located adjacent the Career and Technology Center on Hwy. 20 TMS 221-00-09-005.
Council then amended the agenda to address the Envision Williamston request to lease Mineral Spring Park until January 7 so the organization can coordinate displays and other activites. The request was unanimously approved.
Council approved first reading on an ordinance to amend city codes regarding parades, events, block parties and picketing.
Council approved a resolution requesting additional paving on several streets in Williamston. Mayor Burgess said the town already has three or four paving requests in the queue.
The most recent request includes: S. Green Street from Williams Street to Mill Street, Bigby Street, E. Church Street, River Drive, Knight Street, and Traxler Street.

Burgess also stated that the town is taking additional steps to help eliminate railroad bridge strikes on Gossett Drive and keep the street open.