By Charlene Spelts
The Piedmont Public Service District Board of Commissioners approved final reading on the 2026-27 budget during their June 15 meeting. The budget was approved by a 4 to 1 vote with Commissioner Dickson voting No.
The budget totals $2,861,126. The largest budget items are salaries for fire fighters and related expenses. Included in the budget is a modest increase in the rental rates for the Ballfield, the Rowell Club Room, and the Big Gym.
The increases will offset some of the maintenance expenses. The Rowell Club Room kitchen has been remodeled and is now open for use. The increases are effective July 1, 2026. Those currently on the reservation schedule for rental use will be granted the rates agreed upon at the time of the reservations.
Marsha Davis Rogers presented a package of information regarding necessary updates at the Thomas C. Pack, Jr. Memorial Park. The information included cleaning up and replanting of shrubbery and felled trees, sidewalk repairs, playground equipment repairs, and repairs needed to the shelter.
Chief Tracy Wallace stated there are ongoing plans to secure a PARD Grant from Anderson County to assist with some of the expenditures. Also noted, parts for the playground equipment are still being manufactured and are going to be ordered.
Charlene Spelts presented a proposal on behalf of the Piedmont Historical Preservation Society to move the James Hammett monument from the former Chiquola Mill Site in Honea Path. The monument has been broken into six pieces by the demolition efforts at the old mill site. Honea Path is not interested in repairing and maintaining the monument, she said.
The monument was erected in memory of Mr. Hammett and to honor five employees who at the time had been employed at Chiquola for 50 years. James Hammett was the son of H. P. Hammett, the founder of Piedmont Manufacturing. The monument would be moved and placed on Hotel Hill (Monument Hill) by Anderson County and private donors. The proposal was accepted by a vote of 3-1-1, with Commissioner C. E. Poore, Jr, voting No and Commissioner Beth Dickson abstaining from voting.
There will be no July meeting. The next meeting will be August 17 at 7 pm, in the training room of the Piedmont Fire Department Headquarters.
