Town Council

TOWN of SUMMERVILLE, sc Town Council Meeting Council Chambers - Annex Building – 200 South Main Street Thursday, February 8, 2024 - 6:00 p.m. AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance - Councilmember Aaron Brown 3. Employee Recognition 4. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meetings a. Town Council Meeting – January 11, 2024 b. Special Council Meeting Workshop – January 25, 2024 c. Standing Committee Meetings – February 5, 2024 5. Presentation of Audit for FY Ending June 30, 2023 – Greene Finney Cauley, LLP 6. Public Comment – For items on the February 8, 2024 Town Council agenda only Public comments may not be used for political purposes. It is a violation of State Law. See S.C. Code Ann. § 8-13-765. 7. Petitions: a. Petition by Robert Norman & Cynthia Till Thomas to annex TMS# 136-07-02-005, located at 1223 Central Avenue, and totaling approximately 2 acres. Currently zoned R-1, Single-Family Residential, in Dorchester County and will be zoned N-B, Neighborhood Business, upon annexation into the Town of Summerville’s municipal limits. (Council District 1). Planning and Development Committee voted to move the item to full Council with a recommendation for approval at their meeting on February 5, 2024. Meetings are livestreamed at www.summervillesc.gov Town Council Agenda – February 8, 2024 8. Pending Bills and Resolutions a. Second and final reading of an ordinance to rezone TMS#s 137-09-01-008 and 137- 09-01-050, located at 801 Central Avenue, totaling approximately 0.73 acres, and owned by Tyrone Jeffrey Myers & Bernard Alfonso Myers, from GR-5, General Residential (5 units/acre), to N-B, Neighborhood Business. (Council District 1). 9. Introduction of Bills and Resolutions – a. First reading of an ordinance to amend Chapter 20, Article VI (Summerville Open for Business Program) by: amending Sections 20-201, 20-202, 20-203 and 20-210; re- numbering sections 20-210 and 20-211; deleting Sections 20-204, 20-205, 20-206, 20- 207, 20-208 and 20-209. b. First reading of an ordinance to rezone TMS# 137-14-09-043, located at 114 Sasportas Lane, totaling approximately 0.766 acres, and owned by Mary and Raymond VonDohlen, from GR-2, General Residential (2 units/acre), to GR-5, General Residential (5 units/acre). (Council District 3) The Planning and Development Committee voted to move the item to full Council with a recommendation for approval at their meeting on February 5, 2024. 10. Miscellaneous a. Authorization for the Town Administrator to enter into a contract with Terracon Consultants, Inc. for Brownfields Environmental Consulting Services for $488,600. Terracon was selected through the RFP process. The funding for this is to come from the USEPA FY23 EPA Brownfields Community-Wide Assessment Grant. No match is required. b. Status update by AMH (American Homes 4 Rent) on Noisette Row 11. Public Comment - Any topic Public comments may not be used for political purposes. It is a violation of State Law. See S.C. Code Ann. § 8-13-765. 12. Executive Session: Contractual, legal, and personnel matters a. Discuss Contractual and Legal Matters Related to Property Acquisition Near Summerville Preserve b. Discuss Contractual and Personnel Matters Related to Town Administrator Search Process 13. Other Business a. Action to be taken by Council related to Executive Session 14. Adjourn Meetings are livestreamed at www.summervillesc.gov  Mayor Town Administrator Russ Touchberry Lisa Wallace Council Members: Town Clerk Aaron Brown Beth Messervy Tiffany Johnson-Wilson Richard G. Waring, IV Town Attorney Kima Garten-Schmidt G.W. Parker Bob Jackson Town of Summerville COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES January 11, 2024 ATTENDANCE Present: Mayor Russ Touchberry, Councilmembers Kima Garten-Schmidt, Bob Jackson, Aaron Brown, Tiffany Johnson-Wilson and Richard G. Waring, IV. Also in attendance were Town Administrator Lisa Wallace, Town Attorney GW Parker, and Town Clerk Beth Messervy. A quorum was met. Public and press were duly notified. The meeting took place in Council Chambers at 200 South Main Street and was livestreamed from the Town’s website. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Touchberry called the meeting to order at 6:00pm on Thursday, January 11, 2024. Councilmember Waring gave the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION Mayor Touchberry presented Certificates of Excellence to the Streets and Stormwater Departments for going above and beyond the call of duty during the storm on Tuesday, January 9, 2024. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to approve the minutes of the December 14, 2023 Council meeting and the January 8, 2024 Standing Committee meetings. The motion carried unanimously, and the minutes were accepted into record. PUBLIC COMMENT – JANUARY 11, 2024 AGENDA ITEMS Mayor Touchberry opened the floor for public comment on items on the January 11, 2024 agenda. There being no comments, Mayor Touchberry closed this part of the meeting. PETITIONS No petitions for the January 11, 2024 Council meeting. Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 11, 2024 Page 2 PENDING BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Mr. Brown made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to postpone second reading of an ordinance to annex TMS# 145-08-00-022, located at the end of W. Smith Street, and totaling approximately 13.5 acres (currently zoned TRM, Transitional Residential, in Dorchester County and will be zoned MF-R, Multi- family Residential, upon annexation into the Town of Summerville’s municipal limits) until the March 2024 Council meeting. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Mr. Brown, to give second and final reading to the following ordinances: • Ordinance to amend Chapter 16, Article I, by adding a new section, 16-18 – Encampments on Public Property • Ordinance to amend Chapter 16, Article I, by adding a new section 16-19 – Blocking or Interfering with Traffic Upon a Sidewalk • Ordinance to amend Chapter 16, Article I, by adding a new section, 16-20 – Rummaging, Scattering, and Scavenging Through Solid Waste Containers Prohibited • Ordinance to amend Chapter 16, Article I, by adding a new section, 16-21 – Public Urination and Defecation Prohibited The motion carried unanimously. INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS Mr. Brown made a motion, seconded by Mr. Waring, to give first reading to an ordinance to rezone TMS#s 137-09-01-008 and 137-09-01-050, located at 801 Central Avenue, totaling approximately 0.73 acres, and owned by Tyrone Jeffrey Myers & Bernard Alfonso Myers, from GR-5, General Residential (5 units/acre), to N-B, Neighborhood Business. (Council District 1). The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson, to postpone first reading of an ordinance to amend the Town of Summerville Code of Ordinances, Chapter 20, Planning and Development, Article VI, Summerville Open for Business Program until the February 8, 2024 Council meeting. The motion carried unanimously. MISCELLANEOUS Mayor Touchberry made the following appointments to the Standing Committees of Council: • Parks and Recreation: Bob Jackson, Aaron Brown, Tiffany Johnson-Wilson • Planning and Development: Bob Jackson, Richard Waring, District 3 (placeholder) • Public Safety: Aaron Brown, Kima Garten-Schmidt, District 3 (placeholder) • Public Works and Committee on Water Supply: Kima Garten-Schmidt, Tiffany Johnson-Wilson, Richard Waring Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Mr. Brown, to elect Councilmember Garten-Schmidt as Mayor Pro Tem. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to move the start time of the February 5, 2024 Standing Committee meetings from 5:30pm to 3:00pm. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to authorize the Police Chief and Town Administrator to enter into a law enforcement assistance and support agreement with the City of Hanahan police department. The motion carried unanimously. Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 11, 2024 Page 3 Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve the proposed alteration to Town-owned property at 100 West Richardson Avenue, Suite A (Bexley Restaurant). Some discussion followed. The motion carried unanimously. Ms. Garten-Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to approve the surplus of Summerville Police Department vehicles: P196 and P210, and to use the proceeds from the sale, along with state drug funds, to purchase a new investigator vehicle. The motion carried unanimously. Mr. Brown made a motion, seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson, to approve the proposed hours of operation and procedures of the splash pad to be built at Doty Park. The motion carried unanimously. PUBLIC COMMENTS (open) Mayor Touchberry opened the floor for public comments on any topic. There being no comments, Mayor Touchberry closed this part of the meeting. EXECUTIVE SESSION: Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to enter into Executive Session to discuss the following: • Personnel matter related to Design Review Board The motion carried, and Council entered into Executive Session at 6:16pm. Council reconvened at 6:23pm. Town Attorney GW Parker stated that Council met in Executive Session to discuss the following, and that no action was taken in Executive Session on the items: • Personnel matter related to Design Review Board OTHER BUSINESS: Ms. Johnson-Wilson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to appoint Tammie Golden to the Design Review Board for a 3 year term. The motion carried unanimously. ADJOURN: Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Mr. Brown, to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously, and Mayor Touchberry adjourned the meeting at 6:24pm. Respectfully Submitted, APPROVED: Beth Messervy, Town Clerk Russ Touchberry, Mayor  Mayor Town Administrator Russ Touchberry Lisa Wallace Council Members: Town Clerk Aaron Brown Beth Messervy Tiffany Johnson-Wilson Richard G. Waring, IV Town Attorney Kima Garten-Schmidt G.W. Parker Bob Jackson Town of Summerville SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING / WORKSHOP MINUTES January 25, 2024 ATTENDANCE Present: Mayor Russ Touchberry, Councilmembers Kima Garten-Schmidt, Bob Jackson, Aaron Brown, Tiffany Johnson-Wilson and Richard G. Waring, IV. Also in attendance were Town Administrator Lisa Wallace, Town Attorney GW Parker, and Town Clerk Beth Messervy. A quorum was met. Public and press were duly notified. The meeting took place in the board room of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce at 402 North Main Street and was livestreamed from the Town’s website. CALL TO ORDER AND WELCOME Mayor Touchberry called the meeting to order at 9:00am on Thursday, January 25, 2024. He thanked the staff for their work in putting together the information to be presented at the workshop. Town Administrator Lisa Wallace thanked staff as well. Everyone in attendance introduced themselves. PROPOSED NEW PUBLIC SAFETY COMPLEX Frank Neal, Director of Community and Economic Development, gave a brief history of how the Municipal Public Safety Facilities Committee worked to get to today, where Creech and Associates then gave a presentation of a draft for their plans for a new public safety complex for the Town. Brent Green with Creech & Associates, noted that the renderings and ideas that he presented are just a draft. He presented four site options for the fire department, police department, and municipal court. A copy of the presentation can be requested through the Town Clerk. He stated that the cost estimates for the facilities on two different sites is $76,401,423. The cost estimate for all facilities on one site is $76,846,722. He went through the line items of each estimate. Mayor Touchberry stated that there are three challenges that the Municipal Public Safety Facilities Committee had to face during their meetings: 1) The Town’s current facilities have Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 25, 2024 Page 2 been inadequate for the past 20 years. 2) The Town has first class Police and Fire, and their facilities show reflect that excellence. 3) The Town of Summerville is the 7th largest municipality in the state, and the public safety facilities need to reflect that in size. He stated that Town Council has “failed to execute” a new plan. Staff and Council gave their opinions on the site options. Mr. Green answered questions from the Councilmembers. Mr. Green then reviewed the 3 procurement processes available for the design and construction of the public safety facilities: 1) Design/Bid/Build 2) Construction Manager at Risk 3) Design Build. He explained that #1 is an adversarial pathway, #2 is more prevalent in today’s market, and #3 is a relatively new municipal endeavor. He recommended #2 – Construction Manager at Risk because the contractors are interviewed up front, and the Town gets to select them. In addition, everyone works together as a team with a common goal. Each large trade package has to be pre-qualified with 3 bids. Mr. Green answered questions from staff and Council regarding the procurement methods. Finance Director Rhonda Moore presented two financing scenarios for the public safety facilities complex. She noted that the millage increase listed on scenario #1 was not a suggestion, but rather used for a comparison of numbers. The first scenario included a suggestion to sell real estate to replenish the fund balance should Council choose to use fund balance for the cost. She then presented scenario #2. A detailed breakdown of both scenarios are available from the Town Clerk. Mayor Touchberry stated that there a lot of grant opportunities with the BCDCOG and CHATS. He also stated that Ron Mitchum with the COG would like to visit Town staff and discuss grant opportunities. He also encouraged Town Council to contact the Town’s legislative delegation to get money for public safety facilities. Some discussion followed regarding the inclusion of a parking garage in the public safety facilities plan. Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Mr. Waring, to accept the Berlin G Myers site plan as well as look at a second site plan while keeping both sites open during the process to see if the Town can cut costs. After further discussion, Council decided to choose options A and D to send back to Creech and Associates with recommendations for certain changes. The motion carried unanimously. Ms. Johnson-Wilson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to choose the Construction Manager at Risk procurement method with the stipulation that the Town get 5 bids instead of 3. The motion carried unanimously. ROAD AND SIDEWALK PROJECTS: Mayor Touchberry explained that when the interchange of the Berlin G. Myers Parkway and East Carolina Avenue was designed, there were no plans made for landscaping and a vegetative buffer. He would like to see the interchange landscaped to fit the look and feel of Summerville while preserving the functionality of the road. He stated that the estimated cost is $2 million, including irrigation, planting, and a final design. Mayor Touchberry introduced a preliminary Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 25, 2024 Page 3 rendering of the landscaping plans, and stated that he has a request into the legislative delegation as well as to Dorchester County for funding assistance in the project. Mr. Brown made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to pursue the landscaping plan and work with government partners for funding. The motion carried unanimously. Town Engineer Bonnie Miley gave an update on the Maple Street Extension project, including a construction schedule and the next steps to complete the project. Mr. Waring asked if the project is on schedule, and Ms. Miley confirmed that it is. Planning Director Jessi Shuler stated that the Town needs landscaping for a portion of the Maple Street Extension, but that the Town has mitigation funds to use for that landscaping. She also stated that the Town will have increased mitigation fees for developers in the next year. Some discussion followed regarding mitigation fees. Ms. Miley then gave an update on the North Cedar Street Extension project, which is to help alleviate traffic on North Main Street. She explained that the plans are 85% complete and reviewed the planning and permitting schedule. Mayor Touchberry explained that since the project is in both Berkeley and Dorchester Counties, it can be funded by both counties’ transportation sales tax money. Town Administrator Lisa Wallace stated that the Town submitted a request to the State for funding on the Central Avenue Sidewalk project (from West Carolina Avenue to Parsons Road), and that the State awarded the Town $400,000 towards the project. Ms. Wallace stated that the delay in the process of getting the project into construction has now made it a $600,000 project. She asked Town Council to talk to their Dorchester County counterparts to ask for help with the $200,000 shortfall since the sidewalk serves Dorchester County residents. MAIN STREET RESILIENCY PROGRAM: Frank Neal, Director of Community and Economic Development, presented the Main Street Resiliency Program, beautifying North Main Street from the railroad tracks to 500 North Main. He stated that Dorchester County is doing some updates, and he would like the Town to work with them on the project. He explained that the plans shown in the presentation are for evaluation only and are not firm plans. Mr. Neal stated that the Town will need a lot of business and public input on the project. Mayor Touchberry explained that the Town has $12 million in State funding and a verbal commitment from Dorchester County. Ms. Wallace stated that the Town is still waiting for the contract from the State to receive the first $4 million of the phased award of $12 million. Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to authorize staff to pursue the RFQ for design after the $4 million is in hand from the State. The motion carried unanimously. VISION AND COMPREHENSIVE PLANS: Planning Director Jessi Shuler gave a recap of the Town’s current Vision Plan from 2014 and Comprehensive Plan from 2020. She reported that of the Top 10 “things to do” in the Vision Plan, the Town has completed three and is working towards four more. Ms. Shuler then reviewed the contents of the Comprehensive Plan, including Land Use & Development, Economic Development, Housing & Neighborhoods, Transportation & Mobility, Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 25, 2024 Page 4 Community Facilities & Infrastructure, Natural Resources, Resiliency, Parks & Open Space, Cultural Resources, Priority Investment Projects, and the Action Matrix (192 Action Items). Ms. Shuler answered questions from Council regarding the Vision and Comprehensive Plans. Council recessed at 12:12pm for lunch. Council reconvened at 12:45pm. DEPARTMENT REPORTS: Chief Wright gave a update on the Police and Communication Department’s current status, as well as a rundown of crimes by type in 2022 versus 2023. He also presented future budget requests, including an emergency communications IT position. Chief Melcher gave an update on the Fire and Rescue Department’s current status, as well as a list of priorities for the coming year. Rhonda Moore, Finance Director, presented her list of “to do’s” for the Finance Department to serve the Town’s citizens in the most efficient manner. Frank Neal, Director of Community and Economic Development, presented the ongoing projects in his department, highlighting wayfinding signage in conjunction with Dorchester County. Some discussion followed regarding annexation of residential properties in donut holes. Lenny Larkin, IT Manager, reported that since coming to the Town in 2007, he has transitioned the Town to cloud-based applications. He noted important steps that he and his department are taking to increase cybersecurity, and stated that he could use a security/compliance position. Ryan Dews, Stormwater Manager, reported that the Town is in need of cured in-place pipeliners to continue to repair the pipes in the Town limits. CIPP allows pipe replacement without tearing up residents’ and commercial businesses’ property. He stated that he would like to continue working on CIPP throughout the Town, but the cost is going up. He also presented his capital expenditures requests over the years and for the future, explaining that his equipment is very expensive and that he would like to use budgeted funds instead of stormwater fund balance for them. Mr. Dews also reported that his turnover is not that bad, but he continues to lose employees to the private sector. Amy Evans, Parks and Recreation Director, presented four needs: Maintenance expansion at Gahagan Park, maintaining and improving existing facilities, equipment needed for the jobs, and personnel to meet the growing demands of the Town population. She reviewed projects such as plans for where the Cuthbert Center used to stand, a renovation of the Doty Park playground, and replacing some of the fields at Gahagan with turf. Ms. Evans concluded with future plans including a skate park renovation and an environmental education center at the Summerville Preserve. COUNCILMEMBERS’ TIME: Aaron Brown (District #1) stated that he is pleased with the work of the Town employees. Special Town Council Meeting Minutes – January 25, 2024 Page 5 Tiffany Johnson-Wilson (District #2) stated that she would like to work with Senator Sandy Senn to put Dorchester County and the Town of Summerville in a taskforce to address flooding. She also stated that she would like to look into incorporating a transportation impact fee. Richard Waring (District #4) thanked all Town staff members and stated that he is looking forward to upcoming projects. Kima Garten-Schmidt (District #5) stated that the Town staff does a great job with what they are given to work with. She would like to see more community involvement for litter pickup. Bob Jackson (District #6) stated that the staff presented great ideas at the workshop, and that he is thankful for the new Mayor. MAYOR’S WRAP-UP: Mayor Touchberry told staff that he senses “excellence in your service to the Town.” He stated that the Council needs to execute the plans brought before them by staff. He thanked the Chamber and DREAM for their partnerships. EXECUTIVE SESSION: Mr. Brown made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to enter into Executive Session to discuss the following: • Contractual matter related to Town Administrator The motion carried, and Council entered into Executive Session at 2:09pm. Council reconvened at 2:56pm. Town Attorney GW Parker stated that Council met in Executive Session to discuss the following, and that no action was taken in Executive Session on the items: • Contractual matter related to Town Administrator OTHER BUSINESS: Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Mr. Jackson, to authorize Mayor Russ Touchberry to negotiate and execute a contract extension with the Town Administrator up to December 31, 2024. The motion carried unanimously. ADJOURN: Mr. Jackson made a motion, seconded by Ms. Garten-Schmidt, to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously, and Mayor Touchberry adjourned the meeting at 2:57pm. Respectfully Submitted, APPROVED: Beth Messervy, Town Clerk Russ Touchberry, Mayor  TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT “Creating Sense of Place Through Parks & Play” TO: Beth Messervy, Town Clerk CC: Lisa Wallace, Town Administrator FROM: Amy Evans, Parks & Recreation Director DATE: February 6, 2024 RE: February Parks & Recreation Committee Minutes The Parks & Recreation Committee met on Monday, February 5, 2024 in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall Annex. Committee members Tiffany Johnson-Wilson, Bob Jackson, and Aaron Brown participated in the meeting. The meeting was called to order at 3:00 PM. Ms. Johnson-Wilson nominated Mr. Jackson to be the Committee Chairperson. A motion to accept the nomination was made by Ms. Johnson-Wilson (seconded by Mr. Jackson). Motion passed unanimously. Ms. Evans shared that she had received a request to install ADA parking at Saul Alexander Playground. Ms. Evans met with the Street Department Manager and determined that two spaces could be installed in front of the horseshoe. Ms. Evans stated that if approved, this is an item that would be budgeted for the next fiscal year. A motion to install the handicap spaces was made by Mr. Brown (seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson). Motion passed unanimously. Ms. Evans shared that funding was allocated for the design of the Cuthbert Community Center and requested input on how the committee members would like to proceed. A motion to schedule a community input meeting was made by Mr. Brown (seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson). Motion passed unanimously. With no other business to discuss, Mr. Brown made a motion (seconded by Ms. Johnson- Wilson) to adjourn. Motion passed unanimously and the meeting adjourned at 3:06 PM. Sincerely, Amy Evans Parks & Recreation Director Town of Summerville  PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE REPORT for February 5, 2024 3:00 PM The Planning and Development Committee of Town Council met on February 5, 2024. The meeting was held in the Council Chambers of Town Hall, 200 S. Main Street, Summerville, SC. Committee members present included Richard Waring, Council District 4; and Bob Jackson, Council District 6. Staff members present included Jessi Shuler, AICP, Director of Planning and other Town staff. The meeting was called to order at 3:06 PM immediately following the Parks and Recreation Committee meeting. The first order of business was the nomination and election of the Committee Chairperson. Mr. Jackson made a motion to nominate Mr. Waring as Chair, and Mr. Waring made the second. The motion passed unanimously. Annexation: Ms. Shuler then introduced the petition by Robert Norman & Cynthia Till Thomas to annex TMS# 136-07-02-005, located at 1223 Central Avenue, and totaling approximately 2 acres. Currently zoned R-1, Single-Family Residential, in Dorchester County and will be zoned N-B, Neighborhood Business, upon annexation into the Town of Summerville’s municipal limits. (Council District 1). She stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing and made a recommendation for approval at their meeting on January 22, 2024. Ms. Shuler noted that this property was one property over from the property at 1223 Central Avenue that was just annexed and zoned N-B at the end of 2023, and 1225 Central Avenue was also annexed and zoned N-B several years ago. Mr. Jackson made a motion to recommend approval to full Council, and Mr. Waring made the second. The motion passed unanimously. Rezoning: Ms. Shuler introduced and briefly explained the request to rezone TMS# 137-14-09-043, located at 114 Sasportas Lane, totaling approximately 0.766 acres, and owned by Mary and Raymond VonDohlen, from GR-2, General Residential (2 units/acre), to GR-5, General Residential (5 units/acre). (Council District 3). She stated that the Planning Commission held a public hearing and made a recommendation for approval at their meeting on January 22, 2024. Mr. Waring asked if anyone had expressed any concerns about the rezoning. Ms. Shuler responded that no public comment was provided at the public hearing, and staff has no major concerns with the request. Mr. Jackson questioned if the rezoning would allow them to build condos or townhomes, and Ms. Shuler confirmed that it would not, but it would allow the property to be subdivided in the future. Mr. Jackson made a motion to recommend approval to full Council, and Mr. Waring made the second. The motion passed unanimously. Following no additional business or discussion, the meeting was adjourned at 3:09 PM on a motion by Mr. Jackson and a second by Mr. Waring. Respectfully submitted, Jessi Shuler, AICP February 6, 2024 Director of Planning  PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE Minutes from February 5, 2024 Meeting The meeting was called to order at 3:10pm by Aaron Brown. Committee member Kima Garten-Schmidt was also in attendance, as were Chief Doug Wright and Chief Brent Melcher. Press and public were duly notified. The meeting was livestreamed from the Town’s web site. Ms. Garten-Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Mr. Brown, to appoint Mr. Brown as chair of the committee. The motion carried unanimously. Chief Wright gave an update on the Police Department, including a list of grants that they have applied for, the department’s goal to maintain a high level of service to the citizens and to maintain a competitive edge in the industry through compensation. Chief Melcher gave an update on the Fire & Rescue Department, including January incident, significant incidents, and upcoming events. Ms. Garten-Schmidt made a motion, seconded by Mr. Brown, to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 3:20pm. Respectfully submitted, __________________________ Beth Messervy, Town Clerk Mayor Town Administrator Russ Touchberry Lisa Wallace Town Clerk Council Members: Beth Messervy Bob Jackson Aaron Brown Town Attorney Tiffany Johnson-Wilson G.W. Parker Kima Garten-Schmidt Richard G. Waring, IV Town of Summerville PUBLIC WORKS AND COMMITTEE ON WATER SUPPLY February 5, 2024 The Public Works and Committee on Water Supply met on Monday, February 5, 2024 in Council Chambers at 200 South Main Street. Kima Garten-Schmidt called the meeting to order at 3:21pm. Committee members Kima Garten-Schmidt, Richard G. Waring, IV, and Tiffany Johnson-Wilson were present, as well as Bonnie Miley, Interim Director of Public Works. The public and press were duly notified, and the meeting was livestreamed from the Town’s website. Item A: Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson, to appoint Ms. Garten-Schmidt as Chairperson of the committee. The motion carried unanimously. Item B: Ms. Garten-Schmidt stated that she had received concerns from residents in Brandymill that they do not have sidewalks in the neighborhood to get to the pool safely. Some discussion followed regarding the potential to install sidewalks, but Mr. Waring explained that there is no money in the budget to do so if the Town is having to pay for it. Town Engineer Bonnie Miley stated that staff can look into a graded path on the side of the road instead of a sidewalk. Item C: Ms. Miley stated that the Town has all of the slope permissions from property owners on Lee Street for a sidewalk except for one property owner’s. She stated that she spoke with the design engineer, and the engineer will look into a way to build the sidewalk around this impediment. Item D: Ms. Miley explained that the $33,700 additional requested by Michael Baker on construction administration for the Maple Street Project is to cover man hour costs through the end of March 2025. Some discussion followed. No action was taken, as the item was listed on the Finance Committee agenda for further discussion and action. Item E: Ms. Miley explained that the $63,300 additional requested by Michael Baker for construction costs is because the original plans drawn up for Maple Street project did not include the widening of Highway 78 at the intersection of 78 and Maple. Some discussion followed. No action was taken, as the item was listed on the Finance Committee agenda for further discussion and action. Mr. Waring made a motion, seconded by Ms. Johnson-Wilson to adjourn the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 3:31pm with a unanimous vote. Respectfully submitted, __________________________ Beth Messervy, Town Clerk  Financial Audit Presentation Year Ended June 30, 2023 Emily Sobczak, Partner Emily.sobczak@gfc.cpa Greene Finney Cauley, LLP  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ OPINION  The Town’s responsibility:  Maintain effective internal controls  There are limitations on internal controls.  Regular risk assessment is important, including assessing the risk of fraud.  Financial Statements  Accuracy, completeness, and propriety of balances, amounts, and disclosures  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ GFC responsibility:  Opinion – reasonable assurance that financial statements are materially correct  Does not address the financial condition of the Town  Purpose of the audit is not to detect fraud. We cannot take responsibility for finding fraud, if it existed.  Issued unmodified opinion  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ General Fund  Total fund balance increased GENERAL FUND $1.4M to $24.8M.  Nonspendable fund balance of $425k $25,000,000  Restricted fund balance of $20,000,000 $810k (unspent lease proceeds) $15,000,000  Committed fund balance of $10,000,000 $3M for disaster recovery $5,000,000  Assigned fund balance of $4M for FY24 budget and $0 disaster recovery 2022 2023 Total Fund Balance  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ General Fund Unassigned Fund Balance as a % of General Fund • Unassigned fund balance is Revenues $16.6M and represents 41% of FY2023 operating revenues 40 35 • GFOA recommends a minimum 30 of 16.7% (two months) 25 20 • Town policy requires a minimum 15 unassigned fund balance of 30% 10 of operating revenues 5 0 2022 2023  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Major Reasons To Maintain An Adequate Fund Balance: • Cash flow through second half of calendar year; property taxes and business licenses are cyclical. • Significant emergencies and unanticipated expenditures. • Flexibility for discretionary funding needs • Potential for better interest rates on debt issues (can save the Town money). • Unique requirements for a coastal municipality (Town has commitment for disaster recovery).  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ General Fund Revenues: GENERAL FUND • $40.2 million for 2023: REVENUES • $17.1m in property taxes • $16.3m in licenses, permits and franchise fees $45,000,000 • $5.0m in intergovernmental revenue $40,000,000 • $1.8m for all other revenues $35,000,000 • $2.5M (6%) increase from 2022 $30,000,000 $25,000,000 • Primarily due to $2.3M increase in $20,000,000 property taxes $15,000,000 • $4.2M (12%) better than budget $10,000,000 • Primarily due to higher business licenses $5,000,000 $0 2022 2023 Other Revenues Intergovernmental Revenues Licenses, Permits & Franchise Fes Property Taxes  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ General Fund Expenditures: GENERAL FUND • $45.4 million for 2023: EXPENDITURES • $9.3m in general government • $23.7m in public safety • $2.9m in roads and drainage $45,000,000 • $3.2m in culture and recreation $40,000,000 • $5.4m in capital outlay $35,000,000 • $844k in debt service $30,000,000 • $3.7m (8%) increase from $25,000,000 2022 $20,000,000 $15,000,000 • Public safety expenditures $10,000,000 increased by $1.2m or 5% $5,000,000 • Capital outlay increased by $2.0m $0 • $3.9M (9%) over budget 2022 2023 • Capital outlay of $5.4M was not Debt Service included in the FY2023 budget Capital Outlay • Current expenditures were $916k Roads and Drainage below budget Public Safety General Government  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Total Governmental Funds • General Fund and Special Revenue Funds: • Total Revenues - $64.1M • Total Expenditures - $62.9M • Other Financing Sources - $23.1M  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Other Items of Note: • Total capital assets, net of accumulated depreciation, were $126.7M at 6/30/2023. Depreciation expense was $5.7M. • Significant additions included: • North Maple Street Extension – project cost of $6.6M to date • Fire Station 6 – project cost of $2.9M to date • Purchase of Dominion Property - $3.5M  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Other Items of Note: • Total long-term obligations outstanding at 6/30/2023 were $49.0M – increase of $19.7m from 6/30/2022: • Total principal payments on debt and financed purchase obligations were $1.9m. • Issuance of $20M limited obligation bonds (TIF). • Debt service requirements for FY2024 - $3.7M (including principal and interest) • Compensated Absences - $1.6M  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Pension Accounting: • Relates to the Town’s proportionate shares of the net pension liabilities and deferred outflows/inflows of resources related to the Town’s participation in the South Carolina Retirement System and the SC Police Officers Retirement System. • Net pension liability of $44.4M as of 6/30/2023. • Impacts the Town’s government-wide financial statements (full accrual) • Rates for SCRS and PORS were 17.56% and 20.24%, respectively, for FY2023 and have increased by 1% to 18.56% and 21.24% for FY2024.  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Compliance • Single Audit was required for 2023: • Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds • No findings noted • Financial Statement Finding: Accruals Management Letter • Required communications to management and those charged with governance – no issues to report.  2023 FINANCIAL AUDIT TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Summary • Unmodified opinion on the Financial Statements from GFC • Good financial condition as of June 30, 2023  ORDINANCE TO ANNEX TO, AND INCORPORATE WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF THE TOWN OF SUMMERVILLE, THE PARCEL OWNED BY ROBERT NORMAN & CYNTHIA TILL THOMAS, ADJACENT TO THE BOUNDARY LINE OF THE TOWN, AS DESCRIBED ON THE DEED AND RECORDED PLAT ATTACHED HERETO AND INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE: WHEREAS, the owner of the real estate designated as Dorchester County TMS #136-07-02-005, located at 1223 Central Avenue and totaling approximately 2 acres, has petitioned the Town Council of the Town of Summerville to annex into the Town of Summerville. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED by the Mayor and Members of Town Council duly assembled; SECTION I. That the described land on the attached deed and recorded plat, contiguous to the boundary of the Town of Summerville is hereby annexed to, taken into and made a part of the Town of Summerville and including the public roadway(s) immediately adjacent to the property lines of the parcel for the purposes of providing public service to the parcel. SECTION II. That the properties above described and hereby annexed shall be Zoned N-B “Neighborhood Business” and be classified as “Neighborhood Business” under the Zoning Ordinance of the Town of Summerville. Ratified this _______ day of ____________, 2024 A.D. Russ Touchberry, Mayor Beth Messervy, Town Clerk PUBLIC HEARING: ___Janaury 22, 2024_____ FIRST READING: _____ ________ _______ SECOND READING: ________ _________  Annexation and Zoning Summerville to N-B Planning 100 W BUTTERNUT RD 1300 CENTRAL AVE Apt G13 1300 611 CENTRAL AVE WOODWARD 1300 Apt F6 BLVD 606 1225 CENTRAL WOODWARD 103 CENTRAL AVE Apt E9 BLVD AMBERWOOD DR AVE 604 WOODWARD 106 SANDLEWOOD DR BLVD 602 WOODWARD BLVD 207 AMBERWOOD DR 211 AMBERWOOD DR 202 601 307 AMBERWOOD DR 211 JASMINE DR WOODWARD BLVD SANDLEWOOD DR 301 SANDLEWOOD DR 518 305 SANDLEWOOD DR 207 WOODWARD JASMINE DR 404 SANDLEWOOD DR BLVD 513 202 WOODWARD BLVD 409 801 LAKE SAGEBRUSH LN SANDLEWOOD DR POINTE 514 105 ALYSSA LN AVE 204 WOODWARD SAGEBRUSH LN 509 301 LAKE 806 LAKE POINTE AVE BLVD WOODWARD BLVD POINTE AVE 206 308 LAKE POINTE AVE 100 LAKE 512 WOODWARD SAGEBRUSH LN POINTE AVE BLVD 209 SAGEBRUSH LN 9/11/2023 1:3,381 0 0.02 0.04 0.09 mi Summerville Addresses MF-R PUD Annexation World RequestImagery Zoning Districts N-B Summerville Parcels Low Resolution 15m Imagery 0 0.04 0.07 0.15 km Maxar, Microsoft GR-5 PL Dorchester Parcels High Resolution 60cm Imagery  ORDINANCE To Amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Summerville BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Summerville in Council assembled that the two lots totaling approximately 0.73 acres owned by Tyrone Jeffrey Myers & Bernard Alfonso Myers located at 801 Central Avenue and known as Dorchester TMS#s 137-09-01-008 and 137-09-01- 050 be rezoned to the classification of N-B “Neighborhood Business” from the classification of GR-5 “General Residential (5 units/acre)” The Zoning Map of the Town of Summerville is hereby amended so as to incorporate this change. Ratified this day of , 2024. Ricky Waring, Mayor Beth Messervy, Town Clerk PUBLIC HEARING: December 18, 2023 FIRST READING: ______________ SECOND READING: _____  Rezoning to N-B 732 CENTRAL AVE 715 100 CENTRAL ATLANTIC ST AVE 818 725 CENTRAL CENTRAL AVE Apt A1 AVE 727 A 725 CENTRAL CENTRAL AVE Apt B1 801 AVE CENTRAL 725 CENTRAL 725 CENTRAL AVE AVE Apt C1 725 CENTRAL AVE Apt H1 AVE 725 CENTRAL AVE Apt C3 725 Apt F4 813 CENTRAL 807 725 CENTRAL AVE AVE Apt E4 CENTRAL CENTRAL Apt D1 AVE AVE 725 CENTRAL AVE Apt D4 731 CENTRAL AVE 200 GERMANTOWN RD 124 130 A GERMANTOWN RD GERMANTOWN RD 128 GERMANTOWN RD 9/12/2023 1:1,690 0 0.01 0.02 0.04 mi Summerville Addresses GR-5 Rezoned at Summerville December 14, 2023 High Parcels Council meeting 60cm Imagery Resolution Zoning Districts N-B World Imagery Current rezoning request High Resolution 30cm Imagery 0 0.02 0.04 0.07 km Maxar, Microsoft AC PUD Low Resolution 15m Imagery Citations  ORDINANCE AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 20, ARTICLE VI BY: AMENDING SECTIONS 20-201, 20-202, 20-203 AND 20-210; RE-NUMBERING SECTIONS 20-210 AND 20-211; DELETING SECTIONS 20-204, 20-205, 20-206, 20-207, 20-208 AND 20-209. WHEREAS, Council is of the mind that it is in the best interest of the Town that incentives for economic development within the municipal limits are best handled on a case-by-case method, and WHEREAS, the program known as Summerville Open for Business Program should be abandoned, and WHEREAS, the Commercial Revitalization Incentives program should be preserved. NOW THEREFORE, Be it ordained by the Mayor and Members of Town Council duly assembled; 1. The above Recitals are hereby incorporated into this Ordinance to the same extent as if set out verbatim. 2. Sections 20-204, 20-205, 20-206, 20-207, 20-208 and 20-209 of Chapter 20, Article VI are hereby deleted in their entirety. 3. Chapter 20, Article VI Town of Summerville Code of Ordinances is hereby amended so that it will hereafter read: Sec. 20-201. Title. This article shall be referred to as the "Commercial Revitalization Incentives" Sec. 20-202. Authority. This program is enacted pursuant to the powers conferred upon the Town of Summerville, South Carolina (the "town") under the Constitution of the State of South Carolina, 1895, as amended, specifically including the home rule amendments thereto, S.C. Code Ann. § 5-7-30 and S.C. Code Ann. § 6-29-340. The enactment of this article has been expressly found and determined to create significant value and benefits to the town, and its citizens; and any public funds expended under the terms hereof are anticipated and expected to value to the town that is equivalent to or greater than the funding expended by the town. Sec. 20-203. Purpose. The purpose of the Commercial Revitalization Incentives program is to provide a set of tools that can be used by town's staff to encourage revitalization in the Commercial Historic District as shown on the map attached hereto as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference. The provisions herein allow and permit the town to offer certain incentives or inducements to a person, firm, businesses or corporation that undertake(s) a revitalization project consistent with the provisions herein. 1 Nothing in this article shall be construed to establish any form of ownership, partnership, or liability to or with any third party for the revitalization of any project. Sec. 20-204. Commercial revitalization incentives. Commercial revitalization incentives are offered and available to the owner of any property (i) zoned for commercial use and (ii) located within the incentive area. Respecting the "Interior Upfit and Maintenance Program" and the "Historic Building Maintenance Program" such programs are only available to the owners of properties located in the historic commercial district and otherwise meeting all other qualifications for commercial revitalization incentives. The following commercial revitalization incentives are established. In all cases, any financial assistance awarded will be provided on a reimbursement basis only. (1) Façade program. This program will provide financial assistance for improvement projects on building facades. The maximum reimbursement amount is $2,500.00. The program requires a 50 percent match by the eligible recipient. (2) Sign program. This program provides financial assistance for business signage on the exterior of buildings. The maximum reimbursement amount is $500.00. No match is required. (3) Design assistance program. This program provides financial assistance for architectural design services and/or preparation of scope of work for exterior façade work. The maximum reimbursement amount is $500.00. No match is required. (4) Interior upfit and maintenance program. This program provides for reimbursement of the costs of repairs or upfits to the interior of a building in the historic district that will either repair or restore architectural or structural elements of the building, or upfits that cause the building to be retail-ready. The maximum reimbursement amount shall be the lesser of (i) 50 percent of the total repair/restoration/upfit cost, or (ii) $2,500.00. Generally, all upfits must be permanent improvements to the building and include, but are not limited to, display windows; new construction, such as bathrooms or changing areas; certain electrical, mechanical, and plumbing work; and/or interior repairs to walls, windows, and flooring. Maintenance may include the installation of sprinklers and other fire safety/suppression projects. In determining priority among applicants for this program, emphasis shall be given to the degree to which the project preserves or establishes historic architectural features in the interior of the building. (5) Historic building maintenance program. This program provides for reimbursement of the costs of repairs that will stop the intrusion of water into a building in the historic district. The maximum reimbursement amount shall be the lesser of (i) 50 percent of the total cost of such repairs, or (ii) $2,500.00. Eligible repairs are roof repair and replacement or repair of non-architectural exterior elements that are allowing water to enter the building and damage the interior structure. 2  Sec. 20-205. Administrative criteria and terms of delivery for commercial revitalization incentives. (a) Funding for the commercial revitalization incentives shall be subject to appropriation and funding by Town Council up to the amounts provided in the town's annual budget. No commercial revitalization incentives shall be permitted for projects that are initiated prior to approval by the town. (b) Administration of commercial revitalization incentive program shall be the responsibility of the economic development coordinator, who shall promulgate rules, regulations, applications and the formation of an incentive agreement to provide for and distribute the commercial revitalization incentives. In order to be considered for the commercial revitalization incentives, an eligible applicant must complete and submit the program application to the Town's economic development staff. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis and will be accepted until all funding appropriations for the applicable fiscal year have been exhausted. (c) The provision of any commercial revitalization incentives shall be made only after an incentive agreement has been entered into between the person, firm, business or corporation setting forth the particular requirements of the revitalization, as applicable, and the commercial revitalization incentives associated therewith. (d) Administration of commercial revitalization incentive program shall be the responsibility of the economic development manager, who shall provide a report to council on the status of each incentive agreement on a monthly basis. AND, It Is So Ordained! Dated this day of , 2024 A.D. ____________________________________ Russ Touchberry, Mayor Town of Summerville ATTEST: ___________________________ Beth Messervy, Town Clerk Introduction and First Reading: _____________ Second and Final Reading: _________________ 3  ORDINANCE To Amend the Zoning Map of the Town of Summerville BE IT ORDAINED, by the Mayor and Town Council of the Town of Summerville in Council assembled that the approximately 0.766 acres owned by Mary and Raymond VonDohlen located at 114 Sasportas Lane and known as Dorchester TMS# 137-14-09-043 be rezoned to the classification of GR-5 “General Residential” from the classification of GR-2 “General Residential” The Zoning Map of the Town of Summerville is hereby amended so as to incorporate this change. Ratified this day of , 2024. Russ Touchberry, Mayor Beth Messervy, Town Clerk PUBLIC HEARING: January 22, 2024 FIRST READING: _______________ SECOND READING: _____  Rezoning Exhibit 108 E RICHLAND ST 115 E RICHLAND ST 914 S MAIN ST 907 S MAIN ST 909 S MAIN ST 104 SASPORTAS LN 918 S MAIN ST 200 E RICHLAND ST 917 S MAIN ST 106 SASPORTAS LN 208 E RICHLAND ST 920 S MAIN ST 108 SASPORTAS LN 105 SASPORTAS LN 923 S MAIN ST 107 SASPORTAS LN 104 GRAHAM LN 103 GRAHAM LN 114 SASPORTAS LN 108 GRAHAM LN 111 SASPORTAS LN 110 GRAHAM LN 105 GRAHAM LN 113 SASPORTAS LN 927 S MAIN ST 112 GRAHAM LN 115 SASPORTAS LN 118 GRAHAM LN 113 GRAHAM LN 931 S MAIN ST 117 GRAHAM LN 120 SASPORTAS LN 119 GRAHAM LN 1/16/2024 1:1,690 0 0.01 0.02 0.04 mi Summerville Addresses N-R Rezoning Request World Imagery High Resolution 30cm Imagery Summerville Parcels-Copy Null Low Resolution 15m Imagery Citations 0 0.02 0.04 0.07 km Maxar, Microsoft GR-5 PL High Resolution 60cm Imagery 30cm Resolution Metadata GR-2