Newberry City Council Recognizes Significant Achievements Across Departments

Newberry Celebrates Multiple City Achievements

On Tuesday night, the Newberry City Council recognized several noteworthy achievements by the city’s departments, reflecting their dedication and hard work.

Recognition for Newberry Fire Department

The Newberry Fire Department earned the FireSafeSC Community Designation for 2023 for the fifth consecutive year. This recognition comes as a result of the department’s efforts in completing Community Risk Reduction training, submitting high-quality national and state data reporting, as well as hosting various community engagement and public education programs.

Mayor Foster Senn commended the fire department, saying, “We have a very wonderful staff at the Newberry Fire Department.” Chief Gene Shealy added, “Every day they’re out in the community. Without our staff this wouldn’t be possible.”

Achievements in the Utilities Department

The city’s electric division received the 2024 Certificate of Excellence in Reliability from the American Public Power Association. This award recognizes utilities with an outstanding System Average Interruption Duration Index (SAIDI) performance, highlighting those in the top quartile. Utility Director Tim Baker praised his team, stating, “Our team does an amazing job in getting our customers back on as quickly as possible.” Mayor Senn further emphasized the significance, noting that out of 21 municipalities, only 2-3 in South Carolina received this prestigious certificate.

Additionally, the water plant division was honored with the South Carolina Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) Award by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) Bureau of Water. Initiated in 1997, this program aims to enhance public health protection by setting stringent performance goals for water treatment and distribution. Baker expressed pride in his staff’s commitment, even during holidays and special occasions, ensuring the water treatment plant remains operational 24/7.

Environmental Initiatives and Grants

The Central Midlands Council of Government’s application for the EPA Climate Pollution Reduction Grant has been approved for funding. As a part of this initiative, the City of Newberry will plant 500 trees over five years in disadvantaged areas. The cost for the city’s portion of this project is estimated at $100,000, with the city responsible for 40%, amounting to $40,000. The EPA aims to distribute the funds by year-end, with work anticipated to commence in Spring 2025.

Community Development and Events

Mayor Senn shared several positive updates, including employee spotlights, the grand reopening of Walmart, the opening of Mad Max Taphouse, and Newberry being named to the “10 Adorable Small Towns in SC” list for 2024. Upcoming events such as the Towns in Tune event scheduled for the last weekend in September were highlighted, featuring artists from Bulls Bay, Newfoundland, and a concert at Willingham and Son’s.

Municipal Ordinances and Old Business

Under old business, the council postponed the first reading of an ordinance to amend the zoning map for parcels on Dixie Drive. Additionally, a second and final reading was approved to amend Section 11-13 of the city ordinances to address loitering more effectively. Police Chief Kevin Goodman noted that an education phase will precede enforcement.

Another ordinance was passed to amend fire prevention measures, clarifying exceptions for outdoor burning. “While the language is clearer, the regulations aren’t different from our current practices,” stated Fire Chief Gene Shealy.

New Business

For new business, the council approved the first reading of an ordinance to authorize a mural on the west-facing wall of the Blue Magnolia on Lindsay and Main Streets. The design, which includes the word “Newberry” along with magnolias and yellow jasmines, is actually a durable decal designed to last for up to 20 years. Discussions also covered the authorization for the lease-purchase of a vacuum truck, with the financing set at an interest rate of 4.59% for a term not exceeding four years.

City Manager’s Report

City Manager Jason Taylor provided updates on various projects, including the delayed Boundary Street Bridge project now set for January 31, 2025, and preconstruction work on the Johnstone Street sidewalk initiative. Taylor also mentioned efforts to address the project bid exceeding the budget for the Newberry Arts Center and stages of the downtown amphitheater design. In anticipation of the September Towns in Tune event, the city plans to invest $7,500 in drainage and sod replacement in Memorial Park.

The council meeting concluded on a positive note, reflecting a variety of achievements and ongoing projects that highlight the city’s commitment to progress and community well-being.