Looking Back 2024 . . . Part 2 June – December
As we enter a new year, we take one last look at the year ending. Following are stories and highlights covered by The Journal in 2024:
JUNE
June 4 – Members of a newly formed non-profit organization, Piedmont Community Alliance (PCA), have been working with Greenville County Long Range Planning and Anderson County Planning for over a year to develop an Area Plan for the Piedmont community.
Anderson County Council approved a resolution in support of the newly formed Piedmont Area Plan. County Council District 6 representative Jimmy Davis read the resolution prior to it being approved by Anderson County Council at their June 4 meeting. The Area Plan document serves as a guide to Anderson and Greenville County councils, boards, and commissions when making decisions affecting the Piedmont community.
June 25 – Anderson School District One Superintendent Dr. Seth Young presided over the AD1 Board meeting held June 25. It was his first meeting as the District’s new Superintendent.
Dr. young reported that the land is completely cleared for the new Oak Hill Elementary School. The District is working with SCDOT and architects for work at Concrete Primary. Powdersville High Stadium renovations are being finished.
JULY
July 3 – The Town of Pelzer held their annual July 4th fireworks celebration on July 4 at the Lower Mill property located on Murray Street. The event included free hot dogs, a foam pit and Fireworks.
July 10 – The South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund (SCORF) Board approved three opioid remediation projects submitted by Anderson County. The projects have a combined budget of $628,442 and are as follows: FAVOR/AnMed Recovery Services Partnership; FAVOR Community Recovery Services and Love Well, Capacity Building & Residential Treatment.
Williamston Mayor Rockey Burgess announced that he intends to run for re-election. In his announcement, Burgess highlighted accomplishments that have been made during his time as Mayor and addressed a number of projects that are underway or to be started soon. Among those were revitalization efforts, infrastructure improvements, expansion of trail projects, improvements to Mineral Spring Park and Brookdale Park and public safety.
West Pelzer’s new police chief Zachary Owen was sworn in by West Pelzer Municipal Judge Steven Turner. Owen’s wife Teresa assisted and son Donnie helped pin Owen’s new Police Chief badge.
West Pelzer Town Council approved second reading on their 2024-25 budget. The new budget includes a 13 mill increase in tax millage to pay for better police salaries and keep law enforcement “In-house” and reflects changes due to the sale of the water system to Greenville Water.
Highlights include an increased reserve fund by over 50 percent; increased salaries for 2 full time, qualified police officers and police chief with emphasis on code enforcement; Capital projects; Grant funding for beautification and park improvements; additional events and festivals.
Williamston Town Council approved a PARD grant resolution, held first reading on sale of property to a developer and recognized local barber Jack Turner. Turner operated his barbershop in the West Main shopping center for 60 years before recently retiring.
Debbie Chapman updated Council on the Freedom Celebration which had 33 entries in the golf cart parade, 17 food and beverage vendors, a concert and fireworks show. Mayor Burgess stated that the event generated $15,000 in sponsorships and $2,000 in food truck sales for the Town. Total cost of the event was $22,000, he said.
The Williamston Fire Department also conducted the fireworks show.
Council approved a resolution to accept a $20,000 PARD grant which will be used for improvements at Brookdale Park. The Town will provide a $5,000 match for the grant.
Jamie Saxon and Phillip Clardy were appointed to the Town’s Election Commission.
Council approved first reading on an ordinance to sell property located on Mahaffey Road and East First Street. The 39.54 acre property is being sold to Scout Realty Group, LLC for $300,000. The property is currently in the process of being developed by Scout Realty Group, LLC. under an agreement with the Town in which it would be given to the developer with plans for construction of approximately 90 homes.
There was considerable discussion at the Council meeting about an earmark of $750,000 from the State budget to be used for improvements to Mineral Spring Park and Brookdale Park and a related controversy which arose on social media after Councilman Tony Hagood and others made posts about the distribution of the funding in the two town parks.
July 17 – Anderson County has been awarded a $573,151 grant from the State for the development of pickleball courts at Dolly Cooper Park in Powdersville. Senator Richard Cash has instrumental in securing the grant.
With all project funding now secured, Anderson County will proceed with the final design and development of the courts. Eight pickleball courts will be built, and lighting will be installed to allow use during evening hours.
The Bass Federation Inc. 2024 TBF Junior World Championship (JWC) is set for July 24-26 on Lake Hartwell in Anderson. Roughly one month after hosting the largest and longest-running premier High School event in the nation, the 15th annual High School Fishing World Finals in June and will host the 30th annual Junior World Championship in July.
Anderson County was awarded a $450,000 grant from SCPRT which will be used to improve the press box and fieldhouse at Hurricane Springs Park in the Wren community.
District 6 Councilman Jimmy Davis and his colleagues on the Anderson County Council thanked Senator Richard Cash for sponsoring the grant.
The funds will be used to renovate the fieldhouse which was rendered unusable due to an act of vandalism. The facility had served as a key functional component to activities at Hurricane Springs Park, a regional athletic facility offering baseball, softball, football, and soccer programs to hundreds of area children and teens each year.
Medshore Ambulance Service, a member of the Priority Ambulance family of companies, has received the American Heart Association’s Mission Lifeline SILVER achievement award for commitment to offering rapid and research-based care to people experiencing the most severe form of heart attacks and strokes, ultimately saving lives.
The Anderson County Legislative Delegation recently approved a total of $60,000 in SC Park and Recreation Development (PARD) grants for four projects in Anderson County.
Funding for projects included: Town of Williamston – $20,000 for improvements at Brookdale Park; Town of Starr – $20,000 for electrical system and other improvements at the Starr Walking Track; Town of Honea Path – $10,000 for emergency pool pump generator and Anderson County – $10,000 for walking track repair and rehabilitation and other improvements at Sandy Springs Community park (Mt. Zion Presbyterain Church).
Piedmont Emergency Relief Center received $1,700 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help nourish neighbors experiencing hunger.
EC&M, a national trade publication for electrical professionals, recognized Wes Newton of Hill Electric as one of their 30 Under 30 All-Stars for 2024. Newton serves as a Service Technician with the company and was recognized for going above and beyond the call of duty to demonstrate innovation, efficiency, and creativity while incorporating technology into his job.
Nine Williamston Police Officers were recognized for outstanding performance of duty and service to the Town of Williamston. Included were Officer Ashley Brito, Cpl. Connor Burgess, Officer Joshua Cobb, Officer Whitney Crawford, Officer Jeremy Grinnell, Lt. Lester Culbertson, Lt. Lauren Mulz, Detective Wesley Smith and Officer Eric Thomspon.
July 24 – During a special called meeting, Anderson County Council approved second reading on a revised transportation sales and use tax and a construction agreement for construction of the new detention center. The one percent sales tax will be subject to voter approval of a referendum in November.
County Council approved a contract agreement for a Construction Manager as Constructor for the new Detention Center. The contract includes a Cost of the Work Plus a Fee with a Guaranteed Maximum Price for the project.
The Anderson County Coroner’s office investigated the death of an employee of the Anderson Regional Joint Water System, after he was apparently electrocuted while working on an air conditioning unit. The incident occurred July 18 around 9:50 am at a work site on Vanguard Rd. in Anderson. Coroner Greg Shore identified the victim as Tristan Garrett Stone, 23 of Anderson. Stone was also a member of the Hopewell Fire Department.
Anderson County Council approved several property rezonings and made a major change to a transportation sales and use tax which will go to a referendum later this year. The change exempts groceries from the county-wide sales tax.
Councilwoman Cindy Wilson stated that the change takes unprepared food items off of taxable items and citizens can vote yes or no in November. “We have serious problems with the roads,” she said. “We will honor what our citizens decide.”
Johnny Harvin of Connect Powdersville had a video presentation on the recent Rhythm on the River festival and thanked County Council, County employees and staff for their help in making that event, and the Saluda River Run, a success.
A Back to School Bash was held at the Caroline Community Center. The annual event, organized by the Williamston Action Community Club, is dedicated to helping local families prepare for the new school year with free food, school supplies, and a clothing drive.
“Rock The Country”, a two-day country music festival, brought their massive show and unforgettable performances to Anderson. Headlining the festival were country music superstar Jason Aldean and Kid Rock. Other artists performing in Anderson included Miranda Lambert, Brantley Gilbert, Travis Tritt, Big and Rich, Gretchen Wilson and others. The event was held at the Anderson Sports and Entertainment Center and was the last of seven small town appearances across the United States over the summer.
July 31 – SC House District 8 Representative Don Chapman helped Anderson County receive $740,000 for seven Public Safety infrastructure grants that will benefit local agencies. The Anderson County Sheriff’s Office received $300,000 for a Rapid Deployment Command Vehicle.
A welfare check turned into an animal rescue in Anderson County with two people are facing charges. Dessie Kight, 46, and Christian Voitle, 61, were each facing 26 counts each of Ill Treatment of Animals after several small dogs were found living in deplorable conditions at a home on Old Williamston Road.
The Anderson School District One Board approved first reading on policies addressing animals in schools, booster clubs, communicable diseases and cell phones. They also heard a report on professional development for teachers as they ready to begin the new school year.
During the meeting a special recognition was held for the Powdersville High Baseball team and Wren High Golf team. House District 10 Representative Thomas Beach presented the teams with framed documents recognizing their accomplishments in winning state championships. The Powdersville High Baseball team recently won the AAA State Championship and Wren High Boys golf won the 2023-2024 AAA State Championship.
Anderson School District One opened doors to over 11,000 students for the 2024 – 2025 school year.
The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that one horse and two foxes, one from two different counties, tested positive for rabies.
Williamston Town Council held a special called meeting to vote on a resolution to approve a paving list to be submitted to the Anderson County Transportation Committee (ACTC) for funding. Six streets were approved to be submitted. Included are: Harbison Drive, “A” Street. “B” Street. Randall Street (including the two circles off Randall Street), Rogers Street, and Prince Street.
AUGUST
Aug. 7 – Anderson County Council recognized Will Ragland and the Mill Town Players with a resolution recognizing a new era of live theater which began in Pelzer in 2014 with the launch of Mill Town Players (MTP). The productions were held in the Historic Pelzer Auditorium.
The Piedmont Historical Preservation Society hosted a program by Bob Dicy on the Donaldson Air Base. The program was held in the Piedmont Community Building.
Publix Super Markets, Inc. announced they are planning to open a new store in Powdersville. The store will be located at the northwest corner of Highway 153 and Highway 81 in Powdersville Plaza. The 48,387 square feet store will employ about 140 people.
Williamston Town Council approved second reading on the sale of property located on Mahaffey Road and E. First Street to Scout Realty Group LLC. The 39.54 acre tract is being sold to the developer for $300,000. Council approved a budget amendment allowing funding of up to $125,000 for new heating and air HVAC system for the Municipal Center Auditorium.
Williamston Town Council approved first reading on the annexation of School District One property. The annexation of 18.28 acres at Palmetto High School will bring the entire school property into the town limits and eliminate confusion about whether the town or county has jurisdiction if there is a problem requiring law enforcement or other response, Burgess said.
David Rogers, a lifelong resident of Williamston, was recognized for 48 years of service to the Town of Williamston.
Within days, Rogers announced that he intends to run for the Williamston Town Council Ward 3 seat.
The SC Highway Patrol, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office and the Anderson County Coroner’s office investigated the death of a pedestrian that was struck by a vehicle while crossing the road in front of Wren Middle School. Darryl Scott Barton, 58, of Piedmont, was in the crosswalk of the roadway when he was struck by a truck that had struck another vehicle earlier and fled the scene, the driver of the vehicle was apparently traveling east on Wren School Road again, after circling the block.
In a separate incident, William Albert Green, 65, of Piedmont, was fatally injured when his vehicle was struck in the rear as he was attempting to make a left turn on Tall Oak Circle. The investigation indicates Green was in a small pick-up truck traveling east on River Road, to his residence in Piedmont, when his vehicle was struck in the rear, causing his vehicle to overturn.
The playground area in Mineral Spring Park is under construction. All of the old equipment was removed and the area is being prepped for a new playground. The new playground equipment will cost approximately $358,000. Cost to install is $99,000 and the artificial turf will cost $200,000. Total cost for Mineral Spring Park playground improvements is $755,974.79. Most of the cost is being funded by a State Appropriation which was secured by efforts of House District 9 Representative Anne Thayer.
The new playground equipment will be ADA compliant and has an all inclusive handicap ramp and artificial turf for fall protection. The new turf will be easy to maintain, will be chemical free and has a 10 year warranty. Plans call for new color coordinated swings, wheelchair accessible (multifunctional) swing, small climbing area with slide, three story climbing area with two covered slides and one open slide, shaded benches and other activity stations.
Pelzer Town Council approved a resolution in support of a Hometown Economic Development Grant through the South Carolina Municipal Association. If approved, the grant will provide up to $25,000 in assistance to businesses for a Facade Grant program. The Town will have to provide a match of $1250 for the grant.
The 43rd Annual Spring Water Festival will be held August 23-24 in Williamston’s historic Mineral Spring Park. It is one of the longest running festivals in the upstate.
Organizers of the festival and car show had intended to change the date of the festival to April of 2024, but due to a short planning period and conflicts with other festivals and events, it was decided that they should stay with the 4th weekend of August for 2024, and make the announcement that the date will change for 2025.
This year will be the last year the Spring Water Festival is held in August. Tentative date for the 44th annual Spring Water Festival will be the first Saturday in May. The new date will be May 3, 2025!
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new state-of-the-art detention center in Anderson County. The outdated jail built in the 50’s will be replaced with a modernized facility following strategic preparation and years of planning by County officials.
The old detention center houses more than 400 inmates in a facility intended to hold approximately 240. The new facility will allow 650 inmates to be safely monitored in a pod system under one roof at no additional cost to taxpayers. “We look forward to providing a safe environment for inmates and staff, as well as mental health, addiction resources, and other services that will positively impact these prisoners well beyond their time served,” said Anderson County Administrator Rusty Burns.
Anderson County officials investigated the death of a 19 year old male that went missing while kayaking at Singing Pines Recreation Park in Anderson County. Coroner Greg Shore identified the drowning victim as Joshua Scott Edwards, 19 of Anderson. The death was ruled an accident. According to reports, the victim and a friend were on kayaks in the lake and were caught in a storm that developed in the area. The kayakers were attempting to return to shore, when Edwards apparently fell off his kayak and was not seen again
All grade levels of Anderson School District One ranked among the top five performing districts in the state on the SC Ready Assessments for grades 3 through 8 in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics. Specifically, Anderson One Grades 4 and 7 SC Ready scores ranked second in the state for ELA and Grade 8 SC Ready scores ranked third in the state for ELA.
Aug. 28 – The Anderson County Child Death Investigation Task Force investigated the death of a one month old male on Monroe Circle in Piedmont. No foul play was suspected.
The Anderson School District One Board of Trustees heard a report on the opening of the school year and update on the building program including a new development for the new Oak Hill Elementary School in Powdersville.
Superintendent Dr. Seth Young said District One began the new school year with more than 11,000 students. On day 18, there were 11,057 students in the District, 400 more than last year.
Young said that District One currently has 840 seniors and 380 students in K-4. “We had an incredibly smooth start,” he said.
Three School District One Band programs were recognized by SC Band Directors Association (SCBDA) with the highest designation in the State for Outstanding Band Performance. Powdersville Middle, Wren Middle and Powdersville High School each received the recognition by SCBDA.
The Anderson County Musuem inducted William “Bill” T. Lander, Jr. into the Museum Hall of Fame. The Williamston, native was the grandson of Samuel Lander, founder of Williamston Female College (later Lander University), and the son of William T. and Susan Rumph Lander. Lander believed that education was a never-ending process.
Organizers of the 43rd Annual Spring Water Festival said “It went great!” Spring Water Run organizer Kelly Moon said the 5K run had 122 people register, ranging from 7 to 79 years old. Fire Chief David Huff said the auto show had 128 entries. Craft market and display vendor spaces were full and a good crowd enjoyed those vendors and festival food.
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 4 – Anderson County Council recognized the Palmetto High School Air Force Junior ROTC Unit SC-942 for receiving several prestigious awards and solidifying its reputation as an outstanding force in its community.
The PHS AFJROTC Unit received the Air Force Distinguished Unit Award, the Air Force/Special Force JROTC Silver Star Community Service with Excellence Award and the Southeast Region Cadet Leadership Course Unit of Excellence Award.
The unit also won the “Silver Star” Community Service with Excellence Award for the ninth consecutive year, which highlights the unit’s consistent dedication to serving the community and supporting schools, placing them among the top 5 percent of all AFJROTC units in community service efforts and for the eighth time in the last twelve years, the AFJROTC won the 2024 Southeast Region Cadet Leadership Course Unit of Excellence Award and numerous other honors for individual cadets.
Bicyclist Anthony Catalfomo, 59, of Williamston was fatally injured when the bicycle he was riding on Firetower Road near Mountain View Road was struck by an SUV, causing him to fall from the bicycle. Catalfomo was treated for injuries on scene and flown to Prisma Health in Greenville where he later succumbed to his injuries. The death was ruled accidental by the Anderson County Office of the Coroner and the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
The Anderson University Trojans fielded their first football team ever when they hosted the Saint Andrews Panthers to begin their inaugural football season.
Several local players were on the Trojans first football team including: Titus Session (Piedmont/Wren HS), Seth Hickerson (Piedmont/Wren HS), Tanner Hines Williamston/Palmetto HS), Austin Beers (Piedmont/Wren HS), Caleb Carter (Piedmont/Wren HS), Tre Broughton (Piedmont/Woodmont HS), and Jayden Easterwood (Easely/Wren HS).
Envision Williamston and Town of Williamston sponsored the Annual Fall/Scarecrow Decorating Contest and EW held other programs including Mastering Your Money and Junk in Your Trunk Yard Sale.
Pelzer Town Council got their first look at architectural plans for renovation of the historic Lyceum building. Also known as the old “Pelzer Hospital”, the building was constructed in the late 1800s and features a unique tower on the front with a mixture of Queen Ann and English Arts and Crafts architectural design.
Kyle Campbell of Preservation South, the company that is overseeing design and renovation of the historic building, presented a rendering of what the building will look like when the renovation is complete. He also presented a plan for renovation of the interior.
Williamston Town Council approved annexation of School property and funding for a new heat and air HVAC unit for Town Hall.
Williamston Police Chief Kevin Marsee recognized several police officers for outstanding service to the community including officers Chris Trotter, Shuk Hamdan and Retired Captain Robert Rivas. Chief Marsee also recognzed the following for organizing a great book bag drive: Lee Mahaffey, Debbie Chapman -Town of Williamston, Roberta Hamby – Envision Williamston Executive Director, Jodie Campbell – Duke Power and Shelly Morgan – President American Legion Auxillary, Cristina Ortiz – Ortiz State Farm Agency and Cindy Robertson – Trinity Baptist Church.
Envision Williamston Executive Director Roberta Hamby presented Erica Bruce with a donation of $500 for the Palmetto Middle Mentorship program which she oversees. Hamby said Envision Williamston is also planning two big events in 2025 including a Talent Show with Caroline Community Center in Sept. and a Wine tasting event in April of next year.
Williamston Town Council approved a resolution for a match of $1250 from the Hospitality Tax fund for a Municipal Association of SC Hometown Economic Grant of $25,000. The grant will be used for updating current way finding signs in the Town and adding signage for Brookdale Park and the Gray Drive Park.
Williamston Town Council recognized and honored Sallie Lee Robinson upon her 100th birthday.
Sept. 18 – During a short meeting , Anderson County Council approved several fee in lieu of tax agreements and rezoned property on Hwy. 76 near Pendleton.
Sept. 25 – The Anderson School District One Board honored former Superintendent Robbie Binnicker with a special presentation and approved a number of policy changes including a new cell phone policy. Binnicker was presented a plaque recognizing that the conference room of the new Oak Hill Elementary school being constructed in Powdersville will be named the “G. Robbie Binnicker Conference Center” in his honor.
Binnicker was also presented the State’s highest civilian honor, the “Order of the Palmetto” during the meeting. State House Representative Anne Thayer and Senator Mike Gambrell were joined by SC State Board of Education representative Sallie Lee for the presentation.
Dr. Jeff Wilson said the new cell phone policy is modeled on the SC Board of Education recommended policy and addresses use of all electronic devises “bell to bell” during the school day. It includes a process of how to deal with students and includes warnings and actions to be taken for violations of the new policy. Implementation will begin next month. The policy is to be implemented full time beginning in January.
The Greenville County Sheriff’s Office arrested a man in connection with the death of a woman who was found shot in a parked car on Highway 8. The Greenville County Coroner’s Office identified the victim as 41-year-old Mindy Lee McDonald. GCSO investigators arrested Phillip Charles Reeves, 40. Deputies said Reeves shot McDonald while they were both in the vehicle. The sheriff’s office said the woman’s body was found in the front passenger seat with at least one gunshot wound.
A suspect was in custody after a long search lasting several hours in a wooded area along Hwy. 29 North near Williamston. Anthony Kyle Jenkins was charged with 17 counts of Possession of A Destructive Device and 1 count of Possession of a Weapon by a Felon. The search happened after a search warrant uncovered homemade explosive devices along Highway 29. The Bomb Squad investigation found that Jenkins used everyday household items and mixed them together to create small explosions. When deputies approached the suspect in the woods where he lives, Jenkins took off on foot, prompting a large search.
A groundbreaking was held for the new Oak Hill Elementary school in Powdersville. The new school will serve students and families in the Powdersville area in order to accommodate growth at Concrete Primary and Powdersville Elementary schools. District leaders, school leaders from Powdersville area schools, and Board members attended the ceremony. The $44 million project is slated to be completed in 2026 and the new school is expected to open in Fall 2026.
OCTOBER
Sept. 26/27 – Hurricane Helene hit the upstate with a vengeance. Cleanup efforts were underway across the area following high winds and rain from Hurricane Helene. Local residents and emergency services were dealing with downed trees and power lines, blocked roadways and in some cases flooding. A survey of the area showed hundreds of trees down. Many homes were spared, however a number of homes in the area had trees on them and related storm damage.
Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore said there were four storm related deaths due to the effects of Hurricane Helene. Two of the deaths were the result of trees falling on houses and entrapping the victims. A woman also died after being swept away in a flood. An 83 year old male from Belton was fatally injured early Saturday morning in a storm related headon collision on Hwy. 8 in West Pelzer.
By Sunday, Duke Energy’s Hurricane Helene recovery had restored power to nearly 1.1 million in the Carolinas. Approximately 904,000 customers, primarily in the S.C. Upstate and N.C. Mountains, were still without power.
Oct 2 – A group of workers from Thayer Power and Communications in Michigan were staged at the ballfields in Williamston and began efforts to help Duke Energy get power restored locally.
The Piedmont Historical Preservation Society hosted The Midnight Ride of Jane Black Thomas program at the Augusta Road Ruritan Club.
SCDOR agents arrested Yagneshkumar Pravin Patel, 45, of Piedmont and charged him with six counts of tax evasion. Patel was the operator of Yadhi Groups, LLC and Yadhi Spirits, LLC, and reported taxable sales of more than $770,000 between 2016 and July 2021. However, an investigation found his actual taxable sales to be more than $4.2 million. As the result, Patel evaded at least $229,000 in Sales Tax, the warrants alleged.
Oct. 9 – Anderson County Council recognized Larry Joe Coker of Pelzer for his involvement in efforts to renew pride and revitalize the Town of Pelzer. Coker was born and raised in the old Pelzer mill village and has remained committed to the Town of Pelzer and the wider community his entire life. Coker co-founded the Pelzer Heritage Commission, which has taken on myriad projects to preserve, beautify, and revitalize the Town of Pelzer, renewing community pride while respecting the area’s textile heritage, including clean-up of the old Pelzer Mill office building, restoration of the Lower Mill flagpole, preservation of the Town’s historic cemeteries, and the establishment of Overlook Park on the Saluda River.
Blue Ridge Coop crews reported 712 broken poles in their service area and expected the number to continue to increase due to the effects of Hurricane Helene.
Faith Food Bank in Williamston recently received $1,700 from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation to help nourish neighbors experiencing hunger.
The Town of Pelzer is in good shape following cleanup and power restoration from the effects of Hurricane Helene. Power was restored fairly quickly to most of Pelzer and lineworkers were in the area daily since the storm, working to get power to those who were still without. A crew was staging at the Historic Pelzer Auditorium/Pelzer United Methodist Church parking lot.
Williamston Town Council heard an update on storm response, heard information on the proposed one cent sales tax for roads and allocated funding for merit bonuses for town employees.
Williamston Mayor Rockey Burgess said the town prepared in advance “as best it could” and responded during the height of the storm when Hurricane Helene came through the upstate early Friday morning (Sept. 27). Burgess said there were 70 trees down across streets and roads in the Town including a number on Main Street and all of those were cleared on the day of the storm.
The Belton Standpipe Heritage and Arts Festival schedule for Saturday, Oct. 5 was canceled due to Helene.
Oct. 16 – Anderson County held their delinquent tax sale on property with past due or unpaid taxes.
Anderson County Emergency Management contracted with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) to provide Hurricane Helene debris pick up on all state and county roadways.
The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) released the 2023-2024 School Report Card ratings. All eligible schools in Anderson School District One received an overall report card rating of meeting or exceeding the established criteria.
Seven schools in Anderson One also received a Palmetto Gold or Silver designation for their success in the classroom.
West Pelzer Town Council heard an update on Hurricane Helene recovery efforts and concerns from several residents. The Town had widespread power and internet outages when the storm hit on Friday, Sept. 27. There were numerous downed trees and power poles on private property and roadways.
During public comments, West Pelzer resident and business owner Rick Sanders read a lengthy statement “on behalf of citizens of the town” stating that there was a lack of leadership and compassion from the mayor and an unapproachable demeanor.
When asked about the storm response, Riddle said most of his response “took place behind the scenes.” Riddle said he and Town Clerk Paula Payton “communicated with others to help us out.”
West Pelzer Town Clerk Paula Payton said the Cleanup has already begun with more than 50 large claw trucks running throughout Anderson County.
Oct. 23 – The Anderson County Coroner’s Office and the Anderson County Fire Investigation Unit investigated the death of a 91 year old man after a house fire. According to Coroner Greg Shore, a grassfire was reported at 218 Wyatt Road in Piedmont. When fire personnel arrived, it was determined the fire was a house that was engulfed in flames which had collapsed to the ground. They found a two-story structure with heavy fire damage and after extinguishing the fire, firefighters located the victim in the structure. Shore identified the victim as Bobby Bruce Orr of Piedmont.
A student at Palmetto High School was arrested for possession of a handgun that was in a bag that was brought to school.
Envision Williamston Executive Director Roberta Hamby reported they passed out hundreds of pounds of candy, 650 Smores kits and 50 bags of Marshmallows at Boo in the Park. The event has been organized by SWF committee member Dianne Chastain Lollis with help from others, for a number of years.
Detectives are investigating after six vehicles were stolen from the Jeff Martin Auction on Auction Drive in Pelzer. Witnesses on Old Pelzer Road notified law enforcement after two cars showed up in a field. Someone confronted a group of people, but they took off and left behind a Nissan Maxima on fire with the front doors off. The flames destroyed about a third of an acre near the property. Anderson county detectives are actively investigating this case with the assistance of Greenville County as well.
Oct. 30 – The Anderson School District One School Board recognized students receiving a perfect score on the SC Ready Assessments and their respective schools for receiving either good or excellent on their SC Department of Education (SCDE) report card ratings. They also approved the school calendar for 2025-26.
School District One had 42 students with perfect scores on the SC Ready testing this year.
All grade levels of Anderson School District One ranked among the top in the state on the SC Ready Assessments for grades 3 through 8 in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics.
Eleven schools in Anderson One received a report card rating of Excellent (substantially exceeding the criteria) or Good (exceeding the criteria).
Seven schools in Anderson One also received a Palmetto Gold or Silver designation for their success in the classroom.
Jason Cooke of Medshore Ambulance, a member of the Priority Ambulance family of companies, was selected a 2024 American Ambulance Association Stars of Life recipient. The Stars of Life Award is a prestigious honor highlighting EMS professionals who go above and beyond in their service to the community.
The Town of Pelzer and the Pelzer Masonic Lodge held a Jack O Lantern Jamboree and Pumpkin Contest at the Bill Hopkins Ballfields in Pelzer. The event included live music, food trucks, arts and craft vendors, kid zone, pumpkin decorating contest and Pelzer Masonic Lodge chili cook-off.
NOVEMBER
Nov. 6 – In the General Election, voters across the nation chose their preference for President and Vice-President of the Country with Donald J. Trump coming out the winner.
In Anderson County, voters clearly went for Donald J Trump and JD Vance (Republican) for President and Vice President. Voters chose Sheri Biggs (Republican) over Bryon L Best (Democrat).
In the Anderson School District One Area 3 Trustee race, John JC Neel was the winner over incumbent David “Moochie” Merritt.
Williamston voters chose David Rogers over incumbent Tabatha Austin for the Ward Three Council seat. Incumbent Mayor Rockey Burgess had no opposition.
Anderson County voters stated they did not want to approve a referendum for a one cent County Transportation SalesTax to provide funding to improve roads and bridges throughout the County.
Sam Byler and others in the community helped provide a total of 43 sheds with donations of either time or resources to help the victims of Hurricane Helene in WNC.
Williamston Town Council heard the annual audit report, approved second reading on an employee merit bonus program and rezoned two properties.
Auditor Andrew Coleman of Greene, Finney & Cauley Accounting told Council that the Town received an “Unmodified” opinion, which is the best it can get. Coleman reported that the General Fund balance had increased by $722,000 from $3.2 million to just over $3.9 million.
Williamston Mayor Rockey Burgess announced that the Town’s Municipal Judge Matt Lollis is resigning and Council should look at options to replace him or appoint someone, or do away with the municipal court.
Nov. 13 – The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed that a kitten found near Pumpkintown Hwy and Holder Street in Pickens tested positive for rabies. One dog was exposed and quarantined. A skunk found near Store and Ireland roads in Easley also tested positive for rabies. One person was exposed along with two cats, two cows and twenty goats.
Pelzer Town Council amended their budget ordinance to add a line item for revitalization, $100,000 from the General Fund to cover revitalization related expenditures.
Pelzer Town Council discussed changing the minimum lot size and setbacks for new residential lots in Pelzer. After some discussion, the issue was tabled to allow councilmembers to get more information.
Rock The Country announced that the two-day event will be returning to Anderson on July 25-26, 2025.
Nov. 20 – An 87 year old Easley man was fatally injured in a two car accident on Three and Twenty Road in Easley. Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore identified the victim as David Bryant Wilson of Easley. According to Shore, preliminary investigation showed that the victim was a driver’s side rear passenger in a Lincoln Town Car that pulled out from Hendricks Road onto Three and Twenty Road and was hit by a Kia Telluride traveling South.
Williamston’s new playground in Mineral Spring Park is now open. Beautiful fall weather contributed to a huge turnout over the weekend with as many as 50 children, or more, enjoying the shiny new equipment. An official ceremonial ribbon cutting ceremony was held the following week along a ribbon cutting for a new shelter at Brookdale Park. House Representative Anne Thayer helped secure funding for the projects.
The Palmetto Business Association held a Scavenger Hunt starting on Small Business Saturday, Nov. 30.
West Pelzer Town Council heard comments from several citizens and addressed issues that arose during the October meeting.
Councilman Tim Williams asked about the status of the Town’s Christmas lights. Town Clerk Paula Payton responded that the contractors who were scheduled to install the lights during the week of Thanksgiving had canceled because they did not have time. Payton also said the contractor stated that several utility poles had been severely damaged during the Hurricane and would have to be replaced before installing lights.
Councilman Williams also stated that he had reached out to Sen. Mike Gambrell regarding the crosswalk at Main St. and Stewart Street and that SCDOT had agreed to do a traffic study at the intersection. Williams said he and Sen. Gambrell also discussed the possibility of a roundabout or traffic light at the instersection of Main St. and Palmetto Road.
Mayor Jim Riddle read a written statement regarding the October council meeting. In his statement, Riddle addressed why he did not respond to specific comments regarding his lack of response, in their opinion, to the recent storm Helene.
Nov. 27 – The Anderson School District One School Board recognized students receiving a perfect score on the SC Ready Assessments and their respective schools for receiving either good or excellent on their SC Department of Education (SCDE) report card ratings.
District One had 42 students with perfect scores on the SC Ready testing this past year. All grade levels of Anderson School District One ranked among the top in the state on the SC Ready Assessments for grades 3 through 8 in English language arts (ELA) and mathematics.
The lighting of the Christmas Park and opening of Deck the Halls was held Dec. 1 as part of the “Winter Wonderland” event in Williamston.
The Envison Williamston Winter Wonderland event included the annual tree and park lighting, along with a market, carriage rides, cookies and hot chocolate, carolers, a live nativity, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and much more!
A Winter Wonderland Market was held in Town Hall the annual Christmas Parade were held the same day.
The 21st Annual Fork Shoals Christmas Parade was held. The parade began at Fork Shoals School.
DECEMBER
Dec. 4 – The Williamston Cemetery Committee and Town of Williamston planned to hold the annual Candlelight Service at the Williamston Cemetery located on Gossett Street. The service, in memory of Julie Cole, a long-time, hard-working, and dedicated public servant and member of the Cemetery Committee, was postponed to the following week due to high winds.
The Holly Jolly Christmas Parade, organized by The Bonnes Amies Club, was held in Piedmont.
The Powdersville Water Board of Directors approved increases in fire line fees to bring collected revenues in alignment with required investment in fire capacity. The new rates, which vary based on fire line tap size, become effective on January 1, 2025. The new fire protection fees are designed to better reflect the actual current costs of providing fire protection services.
The West Pelzer/Pelzer Christmas Parade of Lights was held. The parade route was from the West Pelzer Fire Department to Courtney Street in Pelzer.
The first annual tree lighting in Chapman Park was held in West Pelzer.
The Anderson School District One Board discussed new safety programs and approved a new cell phone use policy. The Board also elected officers and heard the annual audit report.
Newly elected Board member J. C. Neel was sworn in along with returning board members Mike Wilson and Brenda Ellison. Nancy Upton was re-elected to serve as Board Chair. Brenda Ellison was re-elected to serve as Vice Chair. Melissa Hood was elected Board Secretary.
Superintendent Dr. Seth Young reported that work is being done on the Concrete Primary renovation and new Oak Hill Elementary school.
Auditor Ken Meadows, of Greene, Finney and Cauley accounting firm reported that School District One received an “unmodified opinion” which is “the best you can receive”. Meadows said the General Fund Balance for District One increased by $5.3 million to $35.2 million. $2 million is appropriated for the 2025 budget expenditures and $4.4 million assigned for capital projects. Overall, Meadows said the District is in “very good financial condition”.
The School Board approved a new cell phone/electronic device policy. Dr. Jeff Wilson said the District policy presented was based on the State model policy but gives Administration the ability to allow some use while not violating school policy. Superintendent Dr. Young said, “It gives administrators the ability to not create conflict.” The District policy will be presented to the State for approval.
Districts that do not go along with the State policy are subject to a 10 percent cut in State funding, according to Dr. Wilson. That would amount to $6.6 million being cut from the District 1 budget.
A Honea Path woman who was a passenger in a vehicle died from injuries she sustained in a wreck Nov. 18 on Broadway School Road, Belton. Stephanie Denise Bryant, 56 of Honea Path, was trapped in the vehicle and had to be extricated by fire personnel. She was transported to AnMed Health where she succumbed to her injuries .
Williamston Town Council rezoned two properties and named an interim municipal judge. Property located at 547 MIll Street, once know as the old “pants plant”, was zoned Institutional on the Town’s zoning map and is now rezoned as Industrial. Council also approved second reading on an ordinance to rezone property on E. First St. and Mahaffey Road. The former Milliken property was purchased by the Town several years ago and was zoned Multi Family Residential. Re-Zoning to R7, Single Family Residential will not allow apartments or duplexes to be built on the property. The minimum lot size under the new zoning is 7000 sq. ft.
Council also approved the hiring of an Interim Municipal Judge. Current County Magistrate and Municipal Judge Matt Lollis is resigning the position. “He has been fantastic for our Town,” Mayor Burgess said.
Jamie Saxon was appointed Interim Judge, “until we appoint a judge or decide to go to the county.” Saxon is an attorney and has served as the Deputy Probate Judge for Anderson County.
Christmas Parade organizer Sherri Cole said that there were 66 entries and approximately 250 partipants in the parade.
Dec. 11 – The Anderson County Coroner’s office investigated a motor vehicle crash on West Church Road near Alpen Way in Easley that resulted in the death of a woman from Greenville who was reported as missing on Dec. 2. Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore said Sheila Walker Thompson, 54, of Greenville, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced deceased on the scene. Thompson died as a result of freshwater drowning and the death has been ruled accidental.
The Anderson County Coroner’s office and the SC Highway Patrol are investigating the death of a pedestrian that was struck by a vehicle on Highway 29 north near the Anderson Jockey Lot. According to Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore, William Brent Gardiner, 30, of Honea Path was walking on the highway when he was struck by a white Nissan Altima traveling south on Hwy. 29. The death was ruled accidental.
The Greenville & Western Railway will hold their 18th Annual “Santa Express” event with stops in Belton, Cheddar, Williamston and Pelzer.
Investigators with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit arrested three people in connection with the murder of Lewis Anthony Polk who was shot and killed inside his residence at 607 Emily Lane on November 2. Deputies on the GCSO Fugitive Apprehension Specialized Investigations Team and Deputies with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office arrested Tybloshie Shunquavius Rayquan Tate, 24 and Jimeika Lakeshia Williams, 41, in Anderson County. Following their arrests, F.A.S.I.T team members arrested Omarien Raykel Anderson, 17, in Greenville County. According to reports, investigators learned that all parties involved lived together in the apartment, and Tybloshie Tate shot Polk following a dispute.
West Pelzer Town Council appointed two new members to the Planning Commission, established a Board of Zoning Appeals and agreed to place dead end signs on some streets.
Roy Budgell and Lori Budgell were appointed members of the West Pelzer Planning Commission.
Councilman Tim Williams said SCDOT had approved a crosswalk upgrade and new school zone signs for safety of kids at West Pelzer Elementary. Williams had contacted Sen. Mike Gambrell about the upgrades and he had talked with Nick Rebovich of SCDOT. Williams said the work will be done after the first of the year and after that they will be looking at a possible traffic light and turn lane on Hwy. 20.
The Green Pond Landing Project on Lake Hartwell celebrated 10 years with fishing tournaments that generated an astounding $116M in economic impact! This amazing decade has featured: Three Bassmaster Classics; Two TBF High School World Finals & National Championship; Two Bassmaster High School National Championships and other championships and tournaments
Anglers from 48 states, four Canadian provinces and 12 foreign countries have fished Lake Hartwell out of Green Pond Landing. In addition to European & Asian anglers, four countries in Africa have traveled here to compete.
The Anderson County Coroner’s office investigated a single vehicle motor vehicle crash that occurred in Piedmont that resulted in the death of a woman. The wreck happened in the 2300 block of River Road. According to Coroner Greg Shore, Linda Mae Cox, 79 of Piedmont was fatally injured when she lost control of the vehicle, traveled off the roadway striking several trees and embankment.
Pelzer Town Council amended their budget ordinance to add a line item for revitalization. Council unanimously approved second reading on the amended budget which includes a transfer of $100,000 from the General Fund to the line item to cover revitalization related expenditures.
Dec. 18 – Pelzer Town Council held a work session with agenda items including: Rules of Procedure, Gym use, Parks, Setback and Historic Renovations.
Dec. 25 – Three and Twenty firefighters responded to an incident on Hamlin Road, Easley where two people died as the result of Polydrug Toxicity and the manner of death has been ruled accidental. According to Shore, the deaths appear to be related to illicit drug use.
The Community celebrated Christmas and readied for a New Year!
