August 13, 2024 Meeting Minutes
The Little Mountain Town Council met in regular session on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at the Derrick Community Center. Present for the meeting were Mayor Jana Jayroe, Council Members Marty Frick, Patrick Bowers and Mary Buntin.
The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm and the invocation was given by Council Member Bowers. There were no public comments on agenda items.
The council reviewed the meeting minutes of the regular July meeting held on July 9, 2024. A motion was made by Frick and seconded by Bowers to approve the minutes as presented. The council also reviewed meeting minutes of the special meeting herd on July 23, 2024. A motion was made by Frick to accept the minutes as presented. Bowers seconded the motion, and the motion carried.
The financial report ending July 2024 was presented. Frick motioned to accept the report as information. Bowers made a second and the motion carried.
Council Member Bowers motioned to hold the seconded reading of the annexation Ordinance for Newberry County Tax TMS 697-9. Council Member Buntin seconded the motion, and the motion carried 4-0.
Mayor Jayroe recognized members of SC Wildlife Federation. Jayroe stated that she was still looking into how the Rocky Branch Trail Head could be acquired by the SC Wildlife Federation. The town attorney is also looking at the progress. Jayroe asked that the Federation share any information that they learn regarding the Upper Savannah Land Trust easement, and she will continue the work on the town side. Council Member Bowers suggested that a long-term lease to the Federation might be a win-win for both sides. Jayroe stated that she would discuss that option with the town attorney.
A Reunion update was given. Despite the weather on Saturday, a good crowd attended the Reunion. Many positive comments were received about the car show, children’s rides and vendors. A post Reunion meeting will be held later to review activities and a financial report. Fire/Rescue reported that 2 rescue calls were made during the Reunion. Additionally, CSX contacted the department to report that there was heavy foot traffic along the tracks during the event.
The council reviewed maintenance projects. The council agreed to complete items needed for the phase 1 renovation of the old town hall. Vinyl lettering is ready to be placed on town signs with the website address. The Town Clerk will also purchase window treatments and wall décor for the town hall to reduce the echo in the building. Any existing items for wall décor will also be used. Council Member Frick also spoke about water damage at the Section House on one of the interior walls. Frick has checked the roof, and it does not appear to be the source of the water. There are several options for repair. No action was taken. Brian Buntin is ready to install the carpet in the Section House.
The Town Clerk reported that the painting at the Derrick Center and the steps on the stage at Reunion Park have been completed.
The Town Clerk reported that she was contacted by Freeway Music, and they do not think the Section House will meet their needs.
In other business:
- Randy Bickley (Santa) has contacted the town regarding a date for the annual Christmas tree lighting. After some discussion, the council would like to discuss the event with the business alliance group for assistance. The business group will meet at the Derrick Center on August 20. The Town Clerk will also reach out to Nanette White to see if she is still interested in heading up the event.
- The Town Clerk reported that one (1) petition has been received by the Voter Registration and Election Office for the election on Nov. 5 to fill Seat 4.
- A request for reimbursement has been received from the library manager for supplies. The reimbursement in the amount of $13.55 was approved.
- Mayor Jayroe stated that she had met with the county regarding the capital sales project for Reunion Park. The work is still targeted to begin in Nov. 2024 and take approximately twelve (12) months. The council will discuss how this will affect the 2025 Reunion as the work progresses. Jayroe stated that there are still some budget issues that were discussed in the meeting. It is unknown how the construction will affect the ball field use at this time. Mayor Jayroe will contact Kim Mack at Little Mountain Elementary School regarding parking for school events.
- The Town Clerk reported that the painting at the Derrick Center and the steps on the stage at Reunion Park have been completed.
With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 7:15 pm.
Respectfully submitted by:
Cindy Farr, Town Clerk