City Achievements Recognized

Newberry — August 25, 2024

Newberry City Council gathered on Tuesday night to honor several accomplishments by various city departments, placing a spotlight on their hard work and successes. Let’s dive into what made the night special!

Fire Department’s Consistent Excellence

The Newberry Fire Department received the **FireSafeSC Community Designation for 2023**, marking the fifth consecutive year they’ve achieved this honor. This accolade emphasizes the department’s dedication to **Community Risk Reduction training**, meticulous data reporting, and valuable community engagement programs. **Mayor Foster Senn** expressed immense pride in the department.

“We have a very wonderful staff at the Newberry Fire Department,” shared **Chief Gene Shealy**. “Every day they’re out in the community. Without our staff, this wouldn’t be possible.”

Electric Division’s Reliability Recognized

Meanwhile, the electric division of the city’s utilities department nabbed the **2024 Certificate of Excellence in Reliability** from the American Public Power Association. This award places Newberry among the top municipalities for minimizing power outages and ensuring quick recovery when they occur.

Utility Director **Tim Baker** praised his team, “Our team does an amazing job in getting our customers back on as quickly as possible. We’re fortunate to have each one of them.”

Water Plant Gains High Honors

The city’s water plant division was also spotlighted for receiving the **South Carolina Area-Wide Optimization Program (AWOP) Award**. This honor from the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services is all about maximizing public health protection through top-notch water treatment and distribution processes.

Environmental Initiatives Move Forward

The city’s environmental efforts were furthered when the Central Midlands Council of Government’s application for the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant was selected. As part of this initiative, Newberry plans to plant 500 trees over the next five years in disadvantaged areas, focusing on spots flagged by the city’s tree canopy assessment.

More Good News

Mayor Senn also updated the community on various positive developments:
– Employee spotlights for Colby McDaniel and Chansel Minick.
– Ribbon cutting for the grand reopening of Walmart.
– Opening of **Mad Max Taphouse** in town.
– Newberry making it to the **10 Adorable Small Towns in SC** list for 2024.

Upcoming Events

Exciting times ahead with the **Towns in Tune event** at the end of September, featuring artists from Bulls Bay, Newfoundland, and a Saturday evening concert at **Willingham and Son’s**.

Council Decisions and Updates

Among other decisions, **council postponed the first reading** of an ordinance to amend the zoning map for parcels on Dixie Drive due to unresolved details. They approved the second reading of ordinances addressing loitering, camping, improper use of public places, and fire prevention updates.

New Additions and Projects

New projects are also in the pipeline:
– Approval was given to authorize a mural on the west-facing wall of Blue Magnolia, proudly featuring “Newberry” along with magnolias and yellow jasmines.
– Council also approved financing for a vacuum truck at a principal amount not exceeding $550,000.

City Manager’s Report

City Manager **Jason Taylor** provided key project updates:
– The Boundary Street Bridge project delayed until January 31, 2025.
– Progress on the Johnstown Street sidewalk project.
– Plans underway for the Newberry Arts Center, amphitheater, and the new skate park.
– Drainage system and sod replacement work in Memorial Park, aiming for completion before the Towns in Tune event.

Stay tuned for more updates as Newberry continues to strive for excellence and community development!