During their recent meeting May 13, West Pelzer Town Council approved second reading on a business license ordinance, demolition contract, first reading on the 2025-26 budget and a new ordinance defining public nuisances in public parks.
The business license amendment brings the town into compliance with the SC Act 176, Business License Standardization Act which requires every municipality and county government with a business license tax to update their ordinance every odd numbered year to go into effect the following year.
Council approved a bid for demolition work for a mobile home at 33B Dendy Street. Three bids were received. Low bid of $4250 by Cape’s Landscaping was unanimously approved. Work includes dismantling of the home and complete clearing of all debris from the property.
Council approved first reading on the 2025-26 budget with revenues and expenses of $748,512, an overall increase of $22,521 over the current budget. This reflects an increase in property tax revenue and other developmental growth within the town. There is no fee increase. The budget reflects expected Expense increases in maintenance, utilities, training, property/vehicle/liability insurance, uniforms, vehicle/equipment, fuel, ammunition and capital expenditures.
The proposed budget shows “very conservative revenue projections and liberal expense projects” and is a balanced budget.
Councilman Tim Williams stated that he believed the Council should consider tax cuts and salary increases for officers. He also suggested a budget workshop be held.
A budget workshop was set for this Friday, May 23 at 6 p.m. The workshop will be held in Council chambers at Town Hall.
Council unanimously approved a new ordinance establishing rules and police regulations for the protection of property and the preservation of peace, order and propriety of conduct in the town’s public parks.
In her report, Town Clerk Paula Payton said the town continues to work with Duke Energy to repair/replace brackets and outlets on utility poles that were damaged during Hurricane Helene last September. The repairs will allow additional Christmas lights to be installed for the 2025 holiday season.
The annual West Pelzer Dog Show will be held June 7.
In his report, Police Chief Zachary Owen said for April there were 196 calls for service; 64 traffic stops, 61 tickets/warrants; 9 warnings, 7 reports and 220 citizen contacts.
