09/18/2025
Ware Shoals Town Council Meeting Recap
Date: Tuesday, September 16, 2025
Meeting Highlights, with TimeStamps
Approval of Minutes
Council approved minutes from the June 17, July 15, and August 19 regular meetings, as well as the September 2 and September 4 special called meetings.
Public Comments (1:40)
• Dr. Faye Sprouse (2:00) requested an update on the status of the dam, and Town Council stated they do not have one at this time but will follow up on it.
• Travis South (2:35) expressed appreciation for the Town Council and praised Officer Sibley, describing him as civil, intellectual, and a strong candidate for Police Chief.
• Tonya Wehr (4:30) stated she lives in Riverside and asked how she could get permission to clean the Riverside sign, the Mayor suggested a meeting with residents of Riverside.
Business License Ordinance Update (6:50)
• Council approved the first reading of an amendment to the business license ordinance to update the class schedule, as required by Act 176 of 2020.
Golf Cart Ordinance (7:35)
• Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 25-04, which regulates golf cart use within town limits. Golf carts will now be allowed on main roads under 35 mph. Operators must be at least 16 years old, hold a valid driver’s license, and have registration and insurance. Additional safety requirements include seat belts for children under 12 and restrictions during certain weather conditions. Town residents were encouraged to keep a printed copy of the ordinance, as state troopers may not be aware of the changes.
Grant Resolutions (10:05)
• Council passed a resolution to provide matching funds for the Municipal Association of South Carolina “Problem Solver Grant,” which would be used for upgrades at Town Hall such as HVAC and flooring.
• A second resolution was passed to support a Hometown Economic Development Grant. This is the grant used to beautify West End, and the town has applied for $25,000 to improve the opposite side of town.
Police Vehicle Declared Surplus (11:51)
• Council voted to declare the blue Dodge Charger police vehicle surplus. The vehicle, originally purchased for around $27,000, will be sold with a starting bid at $27,000. Police equipment will be removed prior to sale. The vehicle has a salvage title.
Committee Reports
History & Tourism (17:00)
• Museum updates: HVAC quotes are being sought as the building has been difficult to maintain in the heat.
• Upcoming events include the Art Soirée, History Legends Ghost Tours, Katherine Hall Birthday celebration, Tree Lighting, and Gingerbread House Competition.
• Plans are underway for a Christmas decoration competition for both businesses and residents.
Public Safety (19:11)
• Chief Louis resigned on September 4. The town is currently accepting applications from certified officers only. 6 have applied for the Chief position, 5 certified officers have applied for the other positions.
• Police reported 327 calls, 7 warrants issued, 6 warrants served, and 4 arrests.
• A citizen on Wood Street raised ongoing concerns about a property in violation of town ordinance, and council noted that efforts continue to address the issue.
• Officer Sibley was again publicly commended by Chair of the Public Safety Committee, Kim Jensen, for his service and leadership until critical staffing conditions.
Properties & Economic Development (24:05)
• Council met with potential developers; the meeting was described as successful.
• Discussions are ongoing regarding an ordinance or code of conduct for pet issues in parks, and disorderly conduct regulations.
• No new updates were provided on Katherine Hall.
Youth & Communities (27:11)
• Work continues on the Youth Center, with drainage and electrical work underway.
• Additional signage is being considered for the community yard sale.
• Upcoming events include a vendor fair (Soul in the Shoals), Halloween Trunk-or Treat (Oct. 31), and a Hispanic Heritage event.
• Valerie Jackson was congratulated for admittance into the Ware Shoals Hall of Fame.
Water & Sewer (28:40)
• Adjustments were made to a resident’s bill, and issues at the wastewater treatment plant were discussed.
• Council addressed concerns about L&L using town vehicles. An ordinance will be created to allow exemptions when in the town’s best interest.
• Phase 2 of the Carnell Sewer Line project will require additional funding. The town is short $1.5 million but expects reimbursement within 7 years from penny sales tax revenue.
• Council authorized up to $15,000 for monitors and switches at pump stations.
Public Works (32:00)
• Crews have been busy clearing limbs, bushhogging, planting grass at Katherine Hall, and repairing potholes.
• Additional projects included “Fresh Food Boxes” that are distributed at town hall, and regular vehicle maintenance.
Administration (35:05)
• A municipal volunteer program was proposed, though legal concerns remain.
• Accounts are being transferred from First Citizens Bank to Commercial Bank, with police accounts scheduled for transfer this week.
• Concerns were raised over missing hospitality tax receipts; new measures will ensure receipts are provided.
• Citizens requested more advertising opportunities. Council stated ads are available in the monthly flyer that is sent out with the water bill, with prices ranging from $25 to $100 depending on size.
• Training continues for the new town clerk (two more weeks, possible more if needed).
• Applications and interview process for a town receptionist are under review.
• Valerie Jackson then shared an update on the town’s STP reports.
Other Business (41:00)
• Resident JP Alewine expressed concerns about changing the ordinance to sell vehicles to L&L directly, asking why the police vehicle could not be treated similarly. The Mayor stated this will be taken under consideration.
