The following stories and Highlights were covered by The Journal from during the second part of the year:
May 21 – Anderson County Council approved third reading on two ordinances addressing issues related to growth and development. One added a new section to provide for riparian buffers. The second required foundation surveys to determine that property lines, set-backs, buffers, and easements are properly observed in location of the foundation for a structure.
Piedmont Pubic Service District Board of Commissioners approved a proposal securing a conservation easement on 2.3 acres of riverfront land below the dam. The PPSD also approved second reading on the $2,660,505 2026 budget.
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 budget has revenues and expenses of $748,512, an overall increase of $22,521 over the current year.
May 28 – An attempted gun exchange in Piedmont resulted in multiple charges including attempted murder for Timario Davis, 22, after ACSO Detectives began investigating shots fired along Effie Drive in Piedmont. Detectives learned that a teenager had been talking with Davis on social media leading up to the shots. Davis arrived at the victim’s home to “trade firearms” with the teenager. When the victim pulled out his gun to exchange, Davis snatched the victim’s gun and reached for his own handgun. He then fired multiple shots in the teenager’s direction. Davis and a group of suspects then left the scene in a vehicle.
Authorities investigated a murder-suicide incident that started in Mauldin city limits, where a 24-year-old woman was kidnapped by an armed suspect. The man then drove a to I-85 southbound and opened fire on the woman inside the vehicle. At one point turned around, heading northbound and stopped near Piedmont where he turned the gun on himself.
Six people were arrested by Anderson County Sheriff’s Deputies after a fight broke out at BHP High School. Deputies quick broke up the fight, mostly between parents, surrounding the softball field at BHP.
The Anderson School District One Board of Trustees approved the 2025-26 operating budget of $120,705,198 which includes a salary increase for teachers to bring first year teacher salaries in line with other Anderson County School Districts.
JUNE
June 4 – The 15th Annual Saluda River Rally was held at Dolly Cooper Park in Powdersville.
Anderson County Council approved second reading on the 2025-26 budget. Council Vice Chairman Brett Sanders said the budget is balanced and includes a three percent across the board raise for county employees, funds the Sheriff’s Department pay plan and provides for thirteen new detention officers. Total revenues and expenditures for the General Fund, Special Revenue Funds and Enterprise Funds amount to $345,207,135.
County Council approved the donation of two vehicles to the Town of West Pelzer including a 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe and a 2013 Chevrolet Tahoe. They also approved the donation of a 2016 Ford F250 4WD to the Williamston Fire Department.
Pelzer Town Council addressed the clerk position, audits, events and began preliminary talks about the 2025-26 budget during a worksession.
Williamston Town Council approved second reading on the 2025-26 budget with no tax increase and tabled approving a resolution to close a portion of Green Street. The budget includes a $2 per hour across the board raise for hourly employees and will fund the Envision Williamston (EW) Executive Director position as full time. The total projected revenues and expenditures for the 2025-2026 Fiscal Year are $7,733,470.
Three Anderson County Deputy Coroners were presented with a Crime Stoppers Award for their work on a case involving a Williamston woman whose body was found in a creek on “A” Street in the City of Anderson in March. Deputy Coroners Ables, Sullivan, and Williamson spent hours photographing the one fingerprint that the victim had left at different lighting and angles then sent it to ACSO Latent Print Examiner Robert Crowetz, who was able to get a match just based on photos of the print.
Pelzer Planning Commission Chairwoman Laura Rainey stated that grading for Courtney Park is expected to begin and the ReWa rehabilitation project is underway.
The Historic Pelzer Gym came alive as residents and visitors gathered for the town’s Summer Market—an event planned and coordinated by Councilwoman Donna Ide. The market featured handmade crafts, jewelry, art, baked goods, food trucks, and more.
June 10 –
Tensions surrounding Pelzer’s finances and leadership rose at the Town Council meeting. Council approved a continuing budget resolution and heard comments from citizens, including one calling for the mayor to resign.
The budget resolution allowed the town to operate under the current budget until the 2025-26 budget could be approved. The budget process had been delayed due to the resignation of town clerk Cheryl Bates in April. Mayor Ragland has assumed many of the clerk’s duties with some help from Planning Commission head Laura Rainey, who volunteered to help with some of the office duties such as issuing business licenses. Mayor Pro Tem Mike Matthews is currently co-signing checks with the Mayor.
Following the clerks resignation, Ragland said he began looking at financial and accounting information for the town “to make sense of it all” and has been in the process of downloading all transactions year to date, recording every single expense and making adjustments for line items “that didn’t match”. He said fifteen accounts have been combined. The actions prompted the concern of councilmembers and residents.
Sixteen Palmetto High School AFJROTC cadets successfully completed the Southeast Region Cadet Leadership Course (CLC) at the University of West Georgia, in Carrollton, Georgia. The cadets participated in rigorous training in five categories: academics, physical training, regulation drill, personal inspections, and room inspections..
Pelzer Mayor Will Ragland found that newly planted wildflowers in the median on Hwy. 8 in front of the gym had been cut down. The vandalism happened sometime during the night following the Pelzer Town Council meeting.
West Pelzer Town Council approved second reading on the municipal budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year. Budgeted revenues and expenses are $748,512, an increase from the current $725,991. The Current Fiscal Year Millage of .1067 remained the same.
West Pelzer Town Attorney Carey Murphy said a new nuisance ordinance is “simple and enforceable” for the the police department and addresses “safety”. Councilman Tim Williams questioned wording in the ordinance regarding use of fire, open fires or cooking in Chapman Park. Williams particularly asked about cooking hot dogs on an open flame and use of warming equipment for food. The Town Attorney said that the ordinance does exclude the use of grills, warming equipment and any type open flames.
June 18 -Anderson County Council formed a Capital Projects Sales Tax Commission to form the ballot question regarding a one percent sales tax for road improvements in Anderson County and the projects to be funded.
Anderson County Sheriff’s Detectives charged Tiyelle Rakelle Demon Hollings, 18, with Murder and Possession of a Weapon during a Violent Crime in connection with a shooting incident in which one person was killed and multiple people were shot on Scarborough Road, located just off Dobbins Bridge Road, in West Anderson. The incident happened when a large crowd gathered for a Juneteenth celebration held in the neighborhood for the sixth year in a row.
Pelzer Town Council held a Special Called Meeting to address placing a limit on spending until a town clerk is hired. The meeting was in response to recent questions about spending for the “wildflower initiative” and whether it falls within the mayor’s authorized spending limit of $1,000 without council approval.
With a unanimous vote, all four members of Pelzer Town Council approved a resolution limiting the Mayor to a spending limit of “one cent”. Approximately 60 people attended the meeting. Mayor Will Ragland did not attend the meeting.
West Pelzer Town Council approved second reading on the 2025-26 budget with revenues and expenses of $748,512, an overall increase of $22,521 over the current budget. The Current Fiscal Year Millage of .1067 will remain the same. There is no tax or fee increase.
June 28 –
Pelzer Town Councilman Cruz West announced that he is resigning his position on council. West said the resignation is “for reasons of a personal issue, I feel I am not adequately able to fulfill my duty to the town and citizens.”
The Williamston Freedom Festival celebration featured a live concert with local entertainers Andrew Crawford and Brandi Colt (Crawford Colt), followed by national artists Gyth Rigdon and Jon Langston. The event included food trucks, hot air balloon rides, Bobbers on Big Creek, a market in the park, golf cart parade and classic car show cruise-in.
Highway road work has been ongoing for some time on US Hwy 29, Bowlan Road and Old Williamston Road near the Anderson Jockey Lot. Multiple entrances to the Anderson Jockey Lot have been combined into one main entrance near the new Highway 29 North intersection with Old Williamston Rd / Bowlan Rd. and new traffic signals are to be installed.
Pelzer Mayor Will Ragland responded to the passing of a resolution by Pelzer Town Council limiting the mayor’s spending to “one cent”. He also announced that he does not intend to run again for the office of mayor. Ragland justified the spending, stating that Council “budgeted money for that purpose” as part of the 2024-25 budget and admitted that payments for the removal and relocation of dirt, which totalled ($26,000) was done “in a way that I normally don’t do because I was short on time.”
JULY
July 2 – Anderson County Sheriff’s Detectives charged two more teenagers with murder following a deadly shooting that left one mother dead in Anderson during the Juneteenth weekend. Kamiryn Ty’Zierriun Goss, 18 and Keeayatas Shameski Geer, 19 are both facing a Murder charge, along with 9 counts of Assault and Battery High and Aggravated. During their investigation, Detectives pinpointed three teenagers firing weapons into a crowd, killing one woman and injuring 9 more at a Juneteenth celebration along Scarborough Road late Saturday night.
The Anderson School District One Board of Trustees approved a slight increase in breakfast and lunch meal prices and heard an update on the building program. Dr. Jeff Wilson reported there are 2100 new homes already approved in District One and the Board should “expect to see growth”. According to Dr. Wilson, most of the growth is out of state people moving south for jobs.
July 9 – An Easley father will not face criminal charges after fatally shooting his son. According to the ACSO, Clyde Eugene Davis III threatened to kill his father and physically tried to strangle him in bed and had a weapon. The father managed to grab the gun during the struggle and shoot Davis III in self-defense.
Patriotism, freedom and fun were on display as residents in the area celebrated Independence Day. The Williamston Freedom Festival Celebration and Pelzer 4th of July Celebration both had great turnouts.
Pelzer Town Council heard an update on the Pelzer Mill Property development, PHC Veterans Memorial and approved a job description for the town clerk position.
Anderson County Deputy Administrator Matt Hogan updated Council on the Pelzer Heritage Mill property which the County is now responsible for. Hogan said cleanup on the lower mill property continues and the original DHEC permit has been switched to Anderson County which he said will allow the County to apply for an EPA grant to cap the property allowing future development.
PHC President Kim Wilson spoke on the PHC Pelzer Veterans Memorial. The PHC had been working with Meritus Signature Homes on the project for three years. Construction on the memorial has been delayed due to different opinions on where the memorial should be located.
July 16 – Anderson County Council approved first reading on an ordinance to enact a Capital Projects Sales Tax for road maintenance in the County, considered a road closure and accepted an Opiod Settlement. The County plans to bring a One Percent Sales and Use Tax to pay for road and safety improvements back to the ballot for voters to decide in November.
Council also approved a resolution expressing intent to cease county maintenance and to authorize consent to judicial abandonment and closure of a portion of Mitchell Road in front of Whitefield Baptist Church. Roads in the area near the Church and Jockey Lot including Bowlan Road, Mitchell Road and Old Williamston Road are currently under construction to reroute and improve safety and traffic flow.
Anderson County is in the process of constructing a nature park and kayak launch facility along the Saluda River in Piedmont. The Piedmont Riverfront Park, located on 28.02 acres, was purchased by the county in 2020 and the land purchase was funded by a $300,000 grant from the National Park Service Land and Water Conservation Fund. The project will be developed in two phases with an estimated total cost of $1.5 million.
July 23 – A Pelzer man has been arrested and charged with child exploitation by the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office after a six month investigation. Detectives investigated multiple National Center for Missing and Exploited Children cyber tips stating that a computer user in Anderson County shared over sixty explicit and illegal digital images and videos of child sexual abuse material. An investigation that discovered that Gregory Lee Bruce was sharing the material between September 2024 and March of 2025. It was also found that Bruce was sharing with users that he had committed incestuous acts with family members.
The Town of Williamston now has free and clear ownership of three properties located on Greenville Drive which were being purchased by the town and ran into legal problems. The property, located on Greenville Drive at Moorings Drive, has recently been cleaned up and currently has a warehouse building located on it. Mayor Rockey Burgess confirmed that a legal problem with one of the properties, which has been ongoing since 2023, has finally been settled and the deed to the Town has been executed and recorded.
The legal problem, which has been a hold up for the Town taking ownership of the third of three properties, was settled through a mediation process between Powdersville Holdings and Cox and Cole Attorneys.
The Piedmont Historical Preservation Society Program was The Big Elrods: An Archaeological Recovery and Relocation of the Elrod Family Cemetery. Elaine Myers Wilson presented area history and answered questions regarding The Elrod Family Cemetery and the Anderson School District One project to recover and relocate the cemetery. The cemetery was located at the site of the new Oak Hill Elementary School currently under construction in Powdersville.
The Rock the Country music festival returned to Anderson featureing national artists, bringing approximately 25,000 people to the area. Friday Lineup included Kid Rock, Tracy Lawrence, Aaron Lewis and The Stateliners, Shenandoah, Little Texas, Logan Crosby, Ying Yang Twins. Saturday Lineup included Nickelback, Hank Williams Jr., Gavin Adcock, Mark Chesnutt, Hudson Westbrook, Afroman.
Sixteen upstate standout athletes, including three from the Wren/Powdersville area, will represent their communities and welcome teams from around the globe to Easley for the Senior League Baseball World Series, taking place at the JB “Red” Owens Sports Complex, on Gregg Powell Field.
July 30 – Anderson School District One welcomed students back for the 2025-2026 school year on August 5th. The District began using a new communication system to share important information and updates with families with email, automated phone calls and text messages.
At the request of the Greenville & Western Railroad, the Town of Williamston began the process to abandon or permanently close a portion of Green Street where it crosses the railroad right-of-way. The crossing had already been temporarily closed while the G&WRR was in the process of replacing railroad cross ties.
Ken Cooley and friends honored a longtime customer of Cooley’s Barber Shop, Walker Hood, who passed away in May. According to Cooley Hood would come by the Barber Shop and sit most every day.
West Pelzer Town Council approved the purchase of a generator for storm preparedness and a resolution of Appreciation of Recognition by WSPA 7 news – Zip Trip.
AUGUST
Aug. 6 – The Anderson County EMS system has been recognized as the first non-transport EMS agency in the state to attain recognition as a Pediatric Ready EMS agency, according to the South Carolina Emergency Medical Services for Children (EMSC) program.
Local businessman and auctioneer Larry Meares was awarded the Order of the Palmetto, the highest civilian honor awarded by the Governor of South Carolina. Presenting the award were SC Representative Chris Huff, SC Representative Randy Ligon and SC Representative Blake Sanders
Williamston Town Council approved purchase of a new stage curtain for the Municipal Center Auditorium and a new golf cart ordinance which follows state law and allows golf carts to be used at night in the town.
Two Williamston police officers, Chris Trotter and Jeremy Grinnell were recognized for promotion to the rank of Corporal.
Aug. 13 – Anderson County Council held final reading on an ordinance to proceed with a referendum for voters to decide on a Capital Projects Sales Tax to pay for road and safety improvements. Nine people spoke during public comments prior to the vote, including two members of the Anderson County Legislative Delegation and several members of the Road Tax Committee. SC House members Lee Gilreath and April Cromer both expressed concerns about the One Percent Sales and Use Tax.
An Anderson County man, known in the community through law enforcement and education, was arrested and is facing possible jail time for an alleged child sexual abuse crime. Detectives charged Gregg Hayden, 48, with Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor Third Degree and Attempted Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor Second Degree after an interaction at the end of July.
Greenville County Sheriff’s Office investigators arrested two individuals in connection with a marijuana growing operation at a residence on Old Georgia Road just off Highway 8 near the Anderson County line.
West Pelzer Town Council approved a resolution authorizing the West Pelzer Police Department to enter into a Mutual Aid agreement with the Town of Williamston Police Department. Town Clerk Paula Payton said the Duke Energy Agreement regarding updated outlets and placement of holiday lighting has been reviewed by the town attorney, signed and returned to Duke Energy.
Career Center SRO Greg Hawkins was recognized for exceptional actions regarding an incident at the Anderson School Districts 1 &2 Career and Technology Center. His swift judgment and decisive action led to the seizure of multiple firearms on school grounds.
Aug. 20 – A child trafficking suspect wanted in Anderson County for Criminal Sexual Conduct with a Minor was arrested after an extensive federal investigation by the U.S. Marshals Service across both Carolinas. Ricky Dean Clinton, 40, was wanted on multiple charges involving crimes against children. Wanted posters listed charges including human trafficking of a child, indecent liberties with a child, first-degree kidnapping and criminal sexual conduct with a minor.
WWII Veteran Jarnette Floyd was awarded a US flag that was flown over the US Capitol in Washington in his honor. Congresswoman Sherri Biggs presented Floyd with the flag at his residence in Morningside of Anderson.
Pelzer Town Council brought resolution to three high interest items that have been on and off their agenda for several years including the historic Community building renovation project, the Pelzer pool property case and the PHC Veterans Monument location.
Councilmembers Mike Matthews, Donna Ide and Mayor Will Ragland unanimously approved a bid of $937,138 for renovations to the Pelzer Community Building. Councilmember Eddie Waits was not present. Daniel Construction had the low bid for the renovation project which in addition to major renovation, will include a new kitchen, ADA restroom and storage.
Council gave their approval for the Town Attorney to proceed with a settlement regarding two civil actions related to the Pelzer Pool property. The status of the Pelzer Pool property has been in question since 2022. To the delight of a crowd of about 25 people attending the meeting, Council approved Wardlaw Park as the location for a planned Veterans Memorial.
A Piedmont firefighter was treated at the hospital but was not transported to the burn unit following response to a residential fire. At the same incident two firefighters were overcome by heat and treated at the scene by the EMS First Response Team.
Piedmont Public Service District (PPSD) Commissioners reviewed bids and availability through the State Purchasing Department for a new Administrator’s Vehicle for Assistant Chief of Operations Jason Thompson. Commissioners voted to approve funding vehicle up to $55,000.
Aug. 27 – Kimberly Terry, a Kindergarten teacher at Spearman Elementary School was recognized as the Anderson School District One announced Teacher of the Year. Holly Ragsdale was recognzed as the Support Staff of the Year. Anna Calvert was recognized as the Induction Teacher of the Year.
Jonathan Ladane Baker, 54, of Williamston was charged with attempted murder and use of a weapon during a violent crime after an incident in which he alegedly ran over his brother with a truck twice and then beat him.
Two 15-year-old female Wren High School students were charged with Assault and Battery 2nd Degree following an incident that took place at the Palmetto – Wren High School football game. Officers determined that several female students were involved in a parking lot fight that resulted in a 15-year-old female Palmetto High School student being injured and transported to the hospital.
SEPTEMBER
Sept. 3 – Detectives with the Anderson County Sheriff’s Office charged Brian Humphries, 44, of Myrtle Beach, with Entering a Bank with Intent to Steal, Disturbing School, and Unlawful Use of 911. The incident began when Humphries robbed the Dogwood State Bank on Clemson Boulevard, escaping with an undisclosed amount of cash.
Anderson County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Kobie Clary, 24, in connection with a stabbing that took place at a home on Drake Street in Pelzer. The victim told deputies she woke up to Clary attacking her with a knife. Clary had previously lived in a building on the victim’s property but had been placed on trespass notice several months earlier. The victim had not had contact with him since. Clary had stolen a vehicle in order to get to the residence. He was quickly located and taken into custody without incident.
A Piercetown area father is facing charges after a two month old infant was taken to the hospital by EMS. First responders performed life saving measures and patient care on the child who was in cardiac arrest. While being treated at the hospital, it was discovered that the child had injuries consistent with possible abuse. As a result of the investigation, ACSO Detectives charged the child’s father, Randon Avery Rolback, with Unlawful Conduct Toward a Child.
Pelzer Town Council members Donna Ide, Mike Matthews and Edward D. Waits graduated from the Municipal Elected Officials Institute of Government. Graduates received their certificates during the Municipal Association of South Carolina’s 2025 Annual Meeting in July.
Four candidates signed up to run for two at-large seats on West Pelzer Town Council. In Pelzer, five candidates have signed up for two at-large seats on Pelzer Town Council and one more signed up for a seat filling an unexpired term on council. Two candidates signed up to run for the Pelzer Mayor’s seat.
In West Pelzer, incumbents Jeff Lee and Johnny Rogers signed up and will face challenges by Jeff Turner and Rick Sanders who also signed up to run for a seat on council.
In Pelzer, councilmembers Mike Matthews and Donna Ide signed up to run for re-election. Also signing up to run were Michael Shirley, Jason McElhannon and Deb Sellers. Gregory Pellum was the only candidate to sign-up for the unexpired 2 year term on council. Two candidates signed-up to run for the Pelzer mayor’s seat, Chase Smithwick and Harold Tennihill. Current Mayor Will Ragland is not running for re-election.
Sept. 10 –
Anderson School District One was among the top-performing districts in the state on the 2024-25 SC Ready assessments. AD1 is one of only two districts in the state that exceeded the South Carolina Department of Education’s ELA goal of 75% proficiency in grades 3 through 5. Additionally, ELA scores in each grade from 3rd through 8th ranked in the top 5 in the state.
The Mill Town Players finished up their 11th season with Austin Irby (aka “The Upstate’s Elvis”), in ROCK-A-HULA! which ran at the Historic Pelzer Auditorium for 10 shows over two weekends, and the final production with South Pacific. Executive Artistic Director Will Ragland said that more than 31,000 people attended a Mill Town Players production in Pelzer during the season
Williamston Town Council approved zoning changes for a new Spinx gas station coming to Williamston and heard information on the proposed One Percent Sales and Use Tax for road repairs in the County.
Pelzer Town Council took no action on a contract for renovations to the Community Building but did approve a low bid by Daniel Builders for the project, subject to the Council’s ability to make changes before final approval. The bid was approximately $300,000 more than expected and came in at $937,138. Council failed to pass first reading on a 2025-26 budget proposal.
Sept. 17 – AARP South Carolina presented Kelly Jo Barnwell with the AARP Community Impact Award for her exceptional dedication to uplifting older adults and young people in Anderson County.
The Piedmont Public Service District approved the purchase of an Administrator’s vehicle using the State Purchasing Program or the Three Bid System for a price not to exceed $60,000. The motion was necessary as the vehicle supply and pricing may have increased in the past month. The purchase of the specific vehicle in August could not be completed due to availability of the specified unit.
A Williamston man is facing multiple drug and gun charges in relation to an attempted armed robbery and kidnapping incident that occurred at the Stop and Go located at 103 Greenville Drive. The victim stated that he had been abducted by a male who was armed with a firearm. Upon arrival, officers entered the business and observed Austin Leneer Mosley, 32, standing next to the reported victim. Mosley was immediately detained without incident.
Sept. 24 – Pelzer Mayor Will Ragland will submit a $2.66 million budget for 2025-26 to Council for the second time on Oct. 14. As presented the budget includes $1 million each for the Community Building and Hospital renovation projects along with a Historic renovation consulting tax credit application fee of $14,122 and $31,500 for the projects.
There have been questions about the financial status of the Town should the Town proceed on the two renovation projects. The budget reflects $2,542,986.40 in revenues and expenses and includes additional Hospitality Revenue and Expenses of $120,500.
Pelzer is at a crossroads. For approximately three years, the Town has been in the process of getting the Community Building and old Hospital Building renovated. Plans for both buildings are to have them renovated in a historically accurate way and bids and contracts for both projects are in process. Some residents and candidates for Council stated the cost for both projects is excessive and wondered what the current councilmembers would decide.
West Pelzer Town Council approved a resolution committing the town to provide a local match for a Municipal Association of South Carolina problem solver grant. The match of at least $1,250 for the grant is the required five percent local match for a Problem Solver Grant in the amount of $25,000. If approved, the grant and local matching funds will be used for Chapman Park Playground Improvements.
OCTOBER
Oct. 1 – The Anderson Districts One and Two Career and Technology Center is renovating its parking lot to add roughly 100 student parking spaces and 50 visitor spaces. This project is designed to support future growth, improve the flow of traffic in the student parking lot, and increase safety for bus riders. Construction began over the summer and the project is expected to be finished by Jan. 5, 2026.
The August meeting of the Anderson School District One Board of Trustees was held at Powdersville High School and included recognition of Powdersville High teachers and students for outstanding performances by the chorus group, band, and cheerleaders. The Board also heard an update on construction at Oak Hill Elementary School and approved livestreaming of board meetings.
Powdersville High choir teacher Meagan Long, and Choir leadership students were recognized and presented a banner in recognition of the South Carolina Music Educators Association 2024-25 Outstanding Performance Award.
Powdersville High band director Garrett Young and band leadership students were also recognized and presented a banner in recognition of them receiving the South Carolina Band Directors Association 2024-25 Outstanding Performance Award.
Powdersville Middle School band director Chris Mitchell was also recognized for receiving the South Carolina Band Directors Association 2024-25 Outstanding Performance Award.
It was announced that the Pelzer Community Building is officially listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Pelzer Mayor Will Ragland told The Journal that Kyle Campbell of Preservation South has been notified by the SC Department of Archives & History that the structure is now listed on the National Registry. Preservation South has been working with the SC Department of Archives and History (SHPO) for approximately three years to get the Community Building/Pelzer Roller Skating Rink, on the National Register.
Josh Clardy of Piedmont announced the launch of “The Safety Plan”, a mission-driven initiative focused on supporting veterans, law enforcement, and frontline families through curated wellness kits. Every kit purchased directly funds suicide prevention resources and outreach efforts.
White Plains Baptist Church celebrated Homecoming. The church, in existance for 141 years, is planning a new church building.
Mark C. Garrett, 56, an off duty Anderson County Sheriff’s Office Detective, was fatally injured when the driver of car turned in front of his motorcycle on Anderson Drive. More than a dozen officers escorted the body from AnMed hospital to the funeral home in West Pelzer.
AD1 Superintendent Dr. Seth Young conducted the Oath of Office for new AD1 Boardmember for Area 4, Chris Karr, who was appointed by the Anderson County Board of Education to fill a vacant seat.
Oct. 8 –
A former Anderson County deputy, Darin Mattison Jr., 36, was charged with Misconduct in Office and Breach of Trust with fraudulent Intent after evidence showed violations of manipulating extra duty timecards and receiving pay for services not worked.
All About Fabrics is owned and operated by a fourth-generation textile family. Three brothers, Eric, Kevin, and Greg Cohen operate the business, which is open to the public during a three day sale held the first weekend of each month. Greg Cohen stated that his grandfather started the textile business in Manhattan in the early 1940’s. The business has evolved from peddling fabric to now being a wholesale company, exporting and retail worldwide from their location in Williamston.
Pelzer Mayor Will Ragland will submit a $2.66 million budget for 2025-26 to Council for the second time. The new budget was supposed to be approved in June, but due to not having a Town Clerk for several months and other reasons, the Town has continued to operate on last year’s budget which was approved by a continuing resolution by Council. The new budget was presented to Council at the Sept. 9 meeting, but failed to receive a second and was tabled.
Williamston Town Council approved second reading on a change to the zoning ordinance and approved rezoning two lots on Hamilton Street. The changes will allow a fully automotive car wash on property which is being purchased as part of a new Spinx location coming to Greenville Drive/Hamilton St.
Oct.15 – Investigators with the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Unit made an arrest in connection with the 2023 murder of 57-year-old Janet Abrilz, whose body was discovered in Lakeside Park on August 27, 2023. Robert Wilson Voorhees (49), who was already incarcerated in the GCDC on unrelated charges from Greenville PD, was charged with Murder. Abrilz’s body was found by a person walking along the trails that afternoon, prompting an extensive homicide investigation.
GodFest 2025 was held at 2639 Anderson Hwy. and featured Gospel musicians, craft and food vendors. Country music artist, Leon Everette headlined the entertainment.
A new extension to the Mineral Spring Park Trail has recently been completed. The extension from the Veterans’ Park crosses Williams Street and proceeds toward a trailhead to be located in the new Saratoga Oaks subdivision which is now under construction. The paved multi-use trail was funded by a $300,000 Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) grant with a 50/50 match by the Town.
Pelzer Town Council approved a contract to begin work on the Community Building renovation project, approved a budget for 2025-26 and hired a town clerk. Several proposed changes were brought up including revising the budget to take out a raise for town employees and keep paid holidays and removing funding for the Hospital Building renovation. The changes will be reflected in a revised budget to be voted on at the next meeting of council. Council also approved an agreement with the Pelzer Heritage Commission and Anderson County regarding details of the Pelzer Veterans Monument being located at Wardlaw Park.
Pelzer Planning Commission Chairwoman Laura Rainey announced that she has resigned from the Planning Commission. Over four years, Rainey helped navigate Zoning, Setbacks, Encroachments, Easements, Variances, Special exceptions and other areas that the Planning Commission must deal with to plan for development in the town.
Oct. 22 – Anderson Area Crime Stoppers will host a memorial vigil in support of victims of violent crime, missing persons, and their families at the Anderson County Courthouse Plaza. The previous vigil was held in 2019, and Ada Martin, mother of Richard Martin and a member of the AACS Board, emphasized the significance of these gatherings in ensuring that the loved ones of those affected are remembered.
This year celebrates the 55th anniversary of the Palmetto Mustangs winning the 3A State Football Championship in 1970. Terry Blackston, a back-up quarterback on the team, recounted winning the State Championship and what it meant to the players and coaches.
Pelzer Town Council approved a contract to begin work on the Community Building renovation project, approved a budget for 2025-26 and hired a town clerk. They also approved an agreement with the Pelzer Heritage Commission and Anderson County regarding details of the Pelzer Veterans Monument being located at Wardlaw Park.
Piedmont Fire Chief Tracy Wallace announced Greenville County’s finance committee recommended County owned property located on Hwy 20 be transferred to Piedmont Public Service District for the construction of a new headquarters. The current location is becoming insufficient to accommodate the needs of the rapidly growing community. The proposal must now be approved by Greenville County Council.
Three of the four candidates for two of the seats on the South Greenville Fire District Commission met in a public forum moderated by Daniel Rumfelt. The two incumbents Commissioners Jimmy Brashier and Jim Darby as well as newcomer Julia Campbell Altman were provided with the opportunity to meet with the public and answer important questions related to the management of the South Greenville Fire District. Candidate Anthony Tate was not in attendance.
West Pelzer Mayor Jim Riddle resigned from office. A Special Election to fill the vacant mayor seat will be held on January 20, 2026.
During their October 28 meeting, the Anderson School District One Board of Trustees recognized a student and teacher for an art display in Washington DC, approved a modified school calendar, heard updates on the Oak Hill Elementary construction and other improvements needed throughout the District. They also named Lesli Porter the new Principal for Concrete Elementary School.
NOVEMBER
Nov. 5 – COLUMBIA, S.C. ― The SC Department of Public Health (DPH) is reporting an outbreak of Measles in the Upstate.
In Pelzer, voters chose Chase Smithwick as their new mayor. Three new faces will serve on Pelzer Town Council. Michael Shirley and Jason McElhannon were the top vote getters for two open seats on Pelzer Town Council. Greg Pullum was the only candidate to run for the unexpired council term in Pelzer.
In West Pelzer, Rick Sanders and Jeff Turner were the two top vote getters. They will fill the seats of the two incumbents, Jeff Lee and Johnny Rogers Sr.
Williamston Town Council approved rezoning of four properties and heard an update on upcoming events including the upcoming Winter Wonderland Event. The event will include opening of Deck the Halls, Lighting of the Christmas Park and Town Tree, two trains for kids, carriage rides, a 30 ft. Snowman Bounce, an inflatable Snow Slide, a vendor market and more.
Mayor Rockey Burgess said the Town is requesting a PARD grant to help with electrical upgrades in Mineral Spring Park. Burgess said approximately half of the old outlets on 4×4 posts are currently not working and need to be replaced.
ACSO Deputies, assistance of Homeland Security, arrested Justin Lee Lucio, 36 after evidence showed he produced child sexual abuse material and placed a camera in a child’s bedroom at a home in Williamston.
Voters once again turned down the One Percent Capital Project Tax Referendum for road and bridge improvements in Anderson County. Out of a total 23,392 votes, 18,387 (78.87 percent) were No. Only 4,927 (21.12 percent) were in favor voting Yes. It is the second time voters said No to the One Percent Sales and Use Tax.
Nov. 19 – Anderson County Coroner Greg Shore is reporting that the county is experiencing a record number of suicide deaths in 2025, with 55 suicides recorded, the highest number ever documented.
Farpoint Development, a leading modular construction and prefabricated data center manufacturer, announced the signing of a 10-year lease with BMarko Structures for its facility located at 134 Long Road, Williamston. The announcement adds fuel to continued economic momentum along the I-85 corridor. BMarko Structures will establish operations at the facility, creating 225 full-time jobs.
Covan’s Properties LLC, known by the project name Project Briarwood, announced plans to invest approximately $3 million in building and restoration projects in Honea Path within Anderson County over the next five years.
Pattillo Industrial Real Estate announced it is proceeding with the development of a Class A 248,000 square-foot industrial building in Anderson County. The Anderson Gateway Commerce Center will be located off I-85 at Exit 40 in Powdersville.
West Pelzer Elementary School was recognized for earning 2025 Blue Ribbon School honors. Former West Pelzer Elementary Principal Amy Bagwell spoke during a celebration.
A multi vehicle wreck on I-85 resulted in the death of one person and nine others injured. I-85 Southbound was shut down for hours to clear the wreckage and investigate the incident.
Newly elected Pelzer Town Council member Greg Pellum was sworn. Pellum will fill the unexpired term for the seat left vacant with the resignation of Cruz West earlier this year.
Pelzer Town Council decided to hire an accounting firm to conduct an initial document review to determine if they should proceed with a more in depth forensic audit of the town’ s finances.
Mayor Will Ragland introduced Pelzer’s new Town Clerk Heather Graham.
A groundbreaking ceremony was held for the Pelzer Veterans Memorial. The memorial will be located in Wardlaw Park which is located at 112 Lebby Street, behind the Pelzer Gym. The Pelzer Heritage Commission (PHC) has partnered with Meritus Signature Homes for the project honoring local Veterans.
Nov. 26 –
Residents celebrated Thanksgiving and the opening of the Christmas Park, area parades and other special activities in Williamston kicked off the holidays.
DECEMBER
Dec. 3 –
A National Guard Officer is facing 10 counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Minor 2nd degree after he allegedly shared disturbing child abuse material online. ACSO detectives charged Jared Allen Dill, 45 of Easley following an investigation that began in September 2024.
The Powdersville Water (PW) Board of Directors approved the operating budget for 2026 which includes a three percent rate increase effective on the January monthly billing.
Greenville County Council approved the transfer of 15.8 acres of County Property to the Piedmont Public Service District. The property located in the 100 block of Piedmont Hwy., is the future home of the headquarters of the district. The current station was built in 1972 and no longer meets current needs.
Williamston Town Council recognized The Palmetto High JV Cheerleading Squad for winning the AAA Division of the Debbie Rogers Competitive Cheer Competition held in Columbia. The win makes them the State 3A JV Cheer Champions.
A registered sex offender in Pelzer, Christopher Shilo Galvan, 26, is facing 10 counts of Sexual Exploitation of Minor Third degree after detectives found evidence showing child sexual abuse material uploaded to his virtual storage. The Criminal Investigations Division received at least two Cybertips on Galvan and began investigating in September 2025. With the assistance of investigators from Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, Galvan was arrested along Page Road in Pelzer.
Advanced Metalworks, a metal fabrication company, announced it is expanding its operations in Anderson County. The company’s $10.5 million investment will create 69 new jobs and will be located in a 156,000-square-foot facility, located at 117 Blake Dairy Road in Belton.
The Anderson County Coroner’s office is investigating the death of a man and woman at a mobile home on Joe Black Road in Williamston. Preliminary investigation showed that the man and woman were living in a mobile home that did not have electricity and were running a generator inside a bedroom to power a heater. The cause of death for both victims was ruled carbon monoxide poisoning.
The Snow Campaign Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) held their annual Wreaths Across America ceremony at Pine Lawn Cemetery in Pelzer.
Dec. 17 – During their last meeting of the year, Pelzer Town Council postponed decisions on two major items and ended the year on a positive note with hopes for a united Pelzer community in the coming new year. After several months of contentious meetings and differing views on the town’s finances and two renovation projects, and an election, it appeared that members of the current administration and a new adminstration, want to see Pelzer come together and move forward.
Pelzer Town Council postponed approval of the 2026 Budget and the Hospital Renovation project, to allow the new administration the opportunity to have input on both.
The meeting was the last for outgoing councilmembers Mike Matthews, Donna Ide and Mayor Will Ragland. Remaining Council member Eddie Waits and recently installed Council member Greg Pellum, will be joined by Michael Shirley and Jason McElhannon on Council. Pelzer will also be under the leadership of a new mayor, Chase Smithwick.
Emergency responders including EMS, Sheriff’s Office, Williamston Police, Williamston Fire responded to an incident involving a train hitting a trash truck in Williamston.
Dec. 24 – Residents celebrated Christmas and readied for the coming of a new year!
