By Jolie Brooks, CHS Junior
York, SC - On May 6, 2024, the York County Council convened with Tommy Adkins from District 3 leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The council approved the adoption of a resolution that recognizes May 5-11, 2024, as National Correctional Officer Appreciation Week. The council and staff then recognized Beth Tolson for her service and retirement with York County. The Public Forum Session was opened and was limited to 30 minutes. Residents addressed the council on various matters, such as support and opposition for rezoning 24-12 (which consists of rezoning approximately 5 acres in District 3 from Agricultural Conservation to Rural Development) and concerns regarding increased price modifications on wrecker services and turnout gear. The Council approved the first readings of rezoning requests 24-14, 24-15, 24-17, 24-18, and 24-19 and denied rezoning request 24-16. Rezoning requests 24-14, 24-15, and 24-18 are all District 1 requests to change Urban Development or Neighborhood Commercial to General Commercial. 24-17 is a District 2 request to rezone 15.67 acres from Residential Mixed to Residential Single Family. 24-19 is a District 6 request to change 47.30 acres from Residential Mixed to Residential Single Family. The only denied motion, 24-16, was a District 2 request to rezone .89 acres from Residential Single Family to Office and Institutional. Public Hearing #8 included a long conversation and debate regarding signs per lot across all of York County. The Council approved 5 to 2 to allow two “large” temporary signs per lot, six “small” signs per lot with a duration of 45 days instead of 90, and disallowing temporary signs in sign triangles. Following this, Case number 24-12, a Rezoning Action to consider Second Reading, also included a very long debate on the motion to approve with deed restrictions of one dwelling per three acres or two houses on six acres. After a long discussion, the Council approved the rezoning action with 4 votes to 3. Next, the Council was asked to consider the first reading of an ordinance to amend the York County Code of Ordinance of Chapter 151. Chairwoman Cox wanted to discuss the item of amending the York County Code of Ordinance, Chapter 151: Flood Damage Prevention, in a future workshop to discuss if there is a need for a Flood Damage Prevention Plan in other areas of the County. The meeting wrapped up with Council members' new and non-agenda comments. Council member William “Bump” Roddey stated that he is extremely proud of the City of Rock Hill and York County Emergency Management for their actions during and after the storm and of the community members who have stepped up and helped their neighbors to clean up and by donating food and other items of need. Council member Tom Audette stated that the local NAMI team meets monthly, and the impact of the storm on people with mental health issues has been difficult; he is requesting that a member of the Emergency Response Team speak with individuals to help them navigate their storm damage. He also stated that the widening of the Exit 85 intersection should be completed by September 2027. Council member Debi Cloninger stated that the Strawberry Festival in Fort Mill had to be canceled due to the bad weather and that it had a negative financial impact on small businesses in the area. Council member Tommy Adkins shared his condolences to the families of the officers in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, who lost their lives last week in an officer-involved shooting. Finally, Chairwoman Christi Cox said that she was amazed at the support from the county manager and emergency management regarding their work following the storm in April. She also shared that our Local Delegation has been very responsive to our financial support requests. The York County Council met again on May 20, 2024. The Council had an Oath of Office for newly appointed Board and Commission Members Dean Hendrix, an Employee Grievance Committee member, and Pierre Langevin, York County Forever (District 7), who was absent. The Council then set a resolution to recognize May 19-25, 2024, as National Public Works Week. During appearances, Dr. Britt Blackwell presented the Pennies for Progress 5 Commission's recommendations, such as giving $225,000,000 for Carryover Projects, a US 21 five-lane widening from Springfield Parkway to Carowinds Blvd. and Hwy. 51 five-lane widening from US 21 to NC state line, $80,000,000 for 76.60 miles of road resurfacing with asphalt (the following Pennies 5 resurfacing groupings will be prioritized by the Pennies 5 Program Manager based on available funds), and $1,710,000 for intersection improvements to Bethel Street/Jackson Terrace intersection, among others which can be found in the York County Council website. The overall estimated cost of all the capital projects was $410,650,000. Following this, Andy Clinton, the President and CEO of Visit York County, along with Natalie Hoekstra, CVB Board member, Rick Lewis with Phenom Hoops, and Rob Masone, owner and chef at Kounter Restaurant, provided the annual report. Mr. Clinton reported that as the destination marketing organization for York County, SC, Visit York County exists to raise the profile and boost the economy of York County through tourism and destination marketing while also contributing to the quality of life for residents. During the Public Forum Session, residents addressed the Council on various matters, such as opposition and support regarding rezoning case 24-12 and the Regent Park Flood Study. Next, during the Rezoning Action, the Council approved the second readings of 24-14, 24-15, 24-17, 24-18, 24-19, and 24-20. The Council approved the amended FY 25 budget calendar, the authorization of staff to apply for and accept fiscal year 2025 Solid Waste Grants in the total amount of $103,900.00 with no matching funds, the second year of a two-year contractual agreement renewal option with Unifirst Corporation of Charlotte NC, regarding Bid #2680 for the rental of uniforms for use by county employees, for an estimated cost of $33,845.24 for FY 2024-2025, and many others that can be found in the York County Council website in the minutes of the meeting. The Public Hearings were then opened, and residents spoke in favor of the proposed ordinance regarding the Regent Park Flood Study; the council then approved the amending of the York County Code of Ordinances Chapter 151: Flood Damages Prevention. The Council then had a Third Reading regarding case # 24-12, where it was approved 5 members to 2. Multiple motions followed, but they failed to get enough votes from the Council to pass. The Council then took a short break before returning to discuss the changes in Ordinance Chapter 33, sections 33.070 Longevity and 33.071 Annual Leave, with a few motions that failed to pass before the Council adopted the decision to deny all changes. At the end of the meeting, the Receipt of Legal Advice was given, and with no further business, the meeting adjourned at 12:09am. The council’s next meeting is scheduled for June 11 at 6pm. It is a special called meeting. The next regular meeting is June 17th at 6pm. Meetings are held at 6 South Congress Street York, SC and are open to the public.
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BY JORDAN BOWERS, THE ROARING EAGLE STAFF, AND CRISTY BOHLEN, GUEST CONTRIBUTOR York, SC - This June 11th, York County voters will head to the polls in a highly impactful South Carolina primary that could set the stage for November's general election. South Carolina's open primary system allows every registered voter to participate in either the Democratic or Republican primaries, but not both. Additionally, those voting in one party's primary cannot switch parties for subsequent runoffs. The stakes are high as the primary results could determine a significant number of local positions. With no Democratic contenders in several races, the primary could decide the York County Council District 2 seat, the 16th Circuit Solicitor’s Office, and the York County Sheriff, among others. The winners of these primaries are likely to be the same individuals taking office after the general election. Statewide, voters will decide on all seven U.S. House districts and all 170 seats in the Legislature. However, with over 250 candidates vying for 124 state House seats and more than 100 for the 46 Senate districts, it's important to note that only a handful of these races are truly competitive. The 1st Congressional District, for instance, remains a focal point, now leaning more Republican following recent redistricting. As the primary approaches, residents are urged to verify their polling places and review sample ballots by visiting the South Carolina voter page. With no statewide offices on this year's ballot, the local and legislative races will be at the forefront of voters' decisions, shaping the political landscape of South Carolina for the years to come. To help our readers be more informed, The Roaring Eagle reporters reached out to those candidates running for the District 2 seat, the Solicitor’s Office, and the Sheriff. The candidates were asked the same four questions, requesting that the total response not exceed 250 words and that they provide a headshot. We have published the responses we received as written. The questions we asked were as follows.
![]() Jason Amentler I decided to run for the county seat because I was unhappy with the government overreach being implemented. I also wanted to give back to a community that has provided me a multitude of opportunity. The four big issues I’m focusing on are: Economic development, infrastructure improvements, funding our first responder services, and reducing government overreach. I think it’s important for people to know that I’m a 21 year district 2 resident, a veteran, and a Clover high school graduate. I have also self funded my entire campaign, and just want to serve this community as best I can. You can submit questions to my Facebook page, Jason Amentler for York County District 2. Allison Love The Roaring Eagle had not received a response by the time of publication. ![]() Andy Litten I'm seeking a seat on the York County Council because our community deserves a leader who prioritizes planning for the future and advocates for the interests of all, not just a privileged few. I'm committed to upholding the foundational principles of governance: honesty, integrity, experience, and accountability. It's time for leadership that places our critical needs above trivial projects. By prioritizing infrastructure planning, promoting sustainable development through smart growth initiatives, advocating for economic development, and ensuring complete emergency services, I aim to enhance the quality of life for both current residents and future generations. Leveraging my background in engineering, planning, and collaboration, I'm poised to tackle these challenges head-on. Together, we can build a community that thrives, meeting the needs of today while laying a strong foundation for tomorrow. My campaign isn't just about winning elections; it's about upholding the values essential for effective, equitable governance. It's about encouraging a culture of integrity, accountability, and collaboration—a culture where the needs of the many outweigh the interests of the few. I believe in the power of principled leadership to effect meaningful change. I refuse to accept the status quo when our community deserves better. Because, ultimately, I am driven by a profound sense of duty to serve and uplift those we're privileged to represent. And together, with your support, we'll chart a course toward a brighter tomorrow for us all. Voters are encouraged to submit their questions and concerns via my Facebook page, LittenforCountyCouncil, or through the website www.littenforcountycouncil.com 16th Circuit Solicitor's Office Kevin Brackett I am running to continue as the elected Solicitor (aka District Attorney). I have over 30 years’ experience in prosecution and have successfully prosecuted countless violent offenders. I want to continue to use my experience to keep our community safe. Fentanyl abuse is the number one issue we face. 5 people die from overdoses every day in SC. This is unacceptable. By holding dealers accountable and compelling addicts to embrace recovery we can do better. We need better laws to help do this and I am working with our local legislators to create them. The voters need to understand that my opponent has virtually no experience. He has only tried two cases as a prosecutor and lost them both. He has never tried a murder case or supervised attorneys. He is not equipped to lead this important office. I have served as Solicitor for the last 17 years and in that time, we have led the state in efficiency, moving more cases within one year of arrest than any other circuit in the state until Covid shut the courts down. We have an outstanding staff of experienced, committed prosecutors most of whom have more experience than my opponent. If we were both surgeons and you had to choose one of us to operate on you, I do not believe you would hesitate to choose my experience over his. If you are a victim of a terrible crime, you would want that experience on your side as well. Submit questions at [email protected]. Tyler Bratton The Roaring Eagle had not received a response by the time of publication. York County Sheriff Michael Belk The Roaring Eagle had not received a response by the time of publication. ![]() Chris Blevins Chris has always aspired to be Sheriff, but out of respect for the sitting Sheriff, he did not initially run. Chris began his law enforcement career as a reserve deputy in 1994 and transitioned to a full-time employee of the York County Sheriff's Office in 1995. He steadily climbed the career ladder, eventually becoming a District Commander before his retirement. With over 25 years in law enforcement, his experience spans various areas, including Investigations, Narcotics, Fugitive Apprehension, SWAT, SC Law Enforcement Network 16th Circuit Coordinator, and District Command. Throughout his tenure at the York County Sheriff's Office, Chris has been recognized numerous times for his outstanding contributions. His extensive network of contacts from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies is a testament to his effectiveness in building working partnerships essential to the leadership role of Sheriff. Chris' top three priorities: - Combat Opioid Crisis - Building trust through relationships with all segments of the community - Strengthen the current workforce through fair and transparent leadership. Chris understands York County's diverse makeup and the unique problems that affect each district's quality of life. Chris will be transparent and open to the public while earning each citizen's trust. Chris will be fair to all employees and treat them how he would like to be treated. Chris will strengthen current bonds in the community while building new ones. Chris can be reached in many different ways: Facebook- ChrisBlevinsforsheriff Instagram- Blevinsforsheriff Gmail- [email protected] Website- Chrisblevinsforsheriff.com Mobile- 803-372-7685 Tony Breeden The Roaring Eagle had not received a response by the time of publication. ![]() Heath Clevenger It is a calling, and I have been called to serve in this capacity. I believe that due to my experiences, ability to communicate effectively, and my proven leadership, I am the best choice to serve the people of York County as their sheriff. My priorities are intelligence-led policing with proactive enforcement to establish safer communities, leading with integrity, talking with the community leaders, and taking care of the deputies, detention officers, and staff of the York County Sheriff’s Office. I want to ensure that the schools are as safe as possible, working with the districts and school staff. I will be fiscally responsible for the taxpayer's funds for the budget. As your sheriff, I will serve the office and the people of York County with honor and integrity. I have a service record that proves that I do not shy away from difficult situations. I will continue to stand between the criminals and the community to hold the criminals accountable. I want York County to have a reputation for being hard on crime so that criminals choose somewhere else to commit crimes. Heathclevengerforsheriff.com [email protected] Beth Tolson
53 years old Born and raised in York 32 years of law enforcement with York County I’m running because of my love for the York County Sheriffs Office and the people of York County who I have served my entire life. 3 of my top issues to address: Mental Health Wellness Domestic Violence Fentanyl Crisis I know first had what it takes to run the York County Sheriff’s Office and I will be ready on day one to take over. I’ve dedicated my life to serve the citizens of York County. I was raised in the York County Sheriffs Office and I have raised my children in the York County Sheriffs Office. [email protected] BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS SOPHOMORE
On November 6, the York County Council convened with Chairwoman Christi Cox presiding. The meeting began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Chairwoman Cox. District 5 Council Member, Christi Cox, took the oath of office. The meeting involved the swearing-in of newly appointed members to various boards and commissions, including Quay Williford of the Lake Wylie Marine Commission and Chip Hutchison of the Rock Hill/York County Convention & Visitors Bureau, among others. During the public forum session, residents addressed the council on various matters. Notably, concerns were expressed about the proposed rezoning (Case # 23-44), with both support and opposition voiced. Additionally, citizens raised issues related to the potential sale of the York County Flyer's site, emphasizing the importance of the site for community programs. The council also approved several items on the consent agenda, including the minutes of previous meetings and various rezoning actions. A PD amendment request covering approximately 1,473 acres in the Daimler Blvd/Westport Blvd area was discussed. The meeting concluded with committee reports and individual council members sharing updates and concerns. The council recognized the graduates of the York County Citizen's 101 Academy and discussed matters related to the York County Fair and the successful Jazz Festival. The November 20 County Council Meeting was called to order by Chairwoman Christi Cox. Council Member Watts Huckabee from District 6 led the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance. Annette Killian, appointed to the Catawba Regional Workforce Investment Board, took the oath of office. Kristin Kunde from York County 4-H addressed the council, highlighting the importance of 4-H programs in the county. During the public forum session, concerns were raised about potential changes to board structures, specifically the removal of At Large seats on boards like Keep York County Beautiful and the Convention and Visitors Bureau. The consent agenda included the approval of minutes from the previous meeting and the second reading of several rezoning cases, such as Case # 23-38, Case # 23-39, Case # 23-40, and Case # 23-41. The council also addressed various new business items, including the approval of an architectural and engineering services contract for the Coroner's Facility Project and discussions around reducing the size of several boards and commissions. The meeting concluded with the denial of certain proposed changes to the size and membership structure of the Rock Hill/York County Convention and Visitors Bureau, the York County Planning Commission, and the Keep York County Beautiful Board. Throughout both meetings, citizens expressed their concerns and support for various issues, ranging from rezoning decisions to the structure of county boards. The council demonstrated its commitment to addressing these concerns while also advancing projects and initiatives for the betterment of York County. BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS JUNIOR
In a closely watched election, the residents of Clover have spoken, casting their votes for a new mayor and three council seats. The results are in, and the victors have emerged from a competitive field of candidates. The race for the position of Mayor was a tight one, with two candidates competing for the opportunity to lead Clover into its next chapter. The final tally revealed that Bo Legg secured the mayoral seat with a commanding 562 votes, defeating opponent Greg Holmes, who garnered 318 votes. A mere 3 votes were cast for write-in candidates, highlighting the community's engagement in the democratic process. The election also determined the occupants of three council seats, with five candidates in contention. The successful candidates were Brittany Farr, Mike Easler and Amy Nivens. Brittany Farr secured one of the council seats with an impressive 569 votes, Mike Easler followed closely behind, earning 555 votes and clinching another council seat. Amy Nivens rounded out the trio of successful candidates with 446 votes, securing the third council seat. Unfortunately, Jason Manos fell short in his bid for a council seat, earning 442 votes. However, the competition was fierce, and the candidates' dedication to serving Clover was evident throughout the campaign. The write-in votes, totaling 38, showcased the diversity of opinions within the community and underscored the democratic nature of the election. While these votes did not secure victories for the write-in candidates, they served as a testament to the engaged and participatory spirit of Clover's residents. As the newly elected officials prepare to take office, the focus shifts to the collaborative efforts needed to address the town's challenges and capitalize on its opportunities. The residents of Clover have made their voices heard, and the elected leaders are poised to work together for the betterment of the community. The Town of Clover Election results reflect not only the choices made by voters but also the shared commitment to a thriving and harmonious town. The incoming mayor and council members are entrusted with the responsibility of shaping Clover's future, and the community will be watching with anticipation as they embark on this important journey. BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS JUNIOR Clover, SC - In the upcoming local election on Nov. 7, two candidates are running for Mayor, and four candidates are running for three town council seats. The Roaring Eagle reached out to the candidates to give them the opportunity to share their platforms. Mike Easler, Jason Manos and Amy Nivens were contacted, but did not respond before publication. Brittany Farr (Town Council) Brittany Farr, a dedicated incumbent running for re-election, is driven by a strong belief in the responsibility of individuals to effect the change they wish to see in their government. As a homeschooling mother of three, she places great emphasis on educating the youth about the importance of local government and its direct impact on the community. Her primary goal is to educate voters about the election process, advocating for a shift back to paper ballots and hand-counted votes, ensuring a fair and transparent electoral system. Encouraging voters to scrutinize candidates based on their actions rather than their promises, she emphasizes the significance of holding elected officials accountable through research and active engagement. Open to communication, she welcomes voter inquiries through her council email and Facebook page, reflecting her commitment to transparency and accessibility. Greg Holmes (Mayor) The candidate, Greg Holmes, is motivated by a genuine dedication to improving the quality of life in Clover, earning it the endearing moniker of the “Town with Love in the Middle.” With a keen focus on addressing critical issues such as stormwater management, recreational facility deficits, and infrastructure development, he emphasizes collaborative efforts with various levels of government and officials to resolve these challenges. Committed to fostering a vibrant community, he advocates for the expansion of recreational opportunities for both children and residents, while ensuring that the town’s infrastructure facilitates business growth. With a strong track record and deep community ties, he seeks re-election as Mayor of Clover, encouraging voters to reach out to him directly via his provided email address for any questions or concerns. Bo Legg (Mayor) The candidate, a passionate advocate for the town of Clover with deep-rooted familial connections, is driven by a desire to preserve the cherished experiences and upbringing that shaped his own life. Focusing on crucial priorities, he aims to strike a balance between progress and sustainability by curbing high-density growth while fostering the development of commercial and industrial ventures. Acknowledging the strain on local schools, he emphasizes the need for thoughtful growth management to alleviate overcrowding. Seeking to bridge the gap between the town and the school district, he envisions a more engaged mayoral role, proposing initiatives such as regular lunch meetings with students, hosting a special graduation dinner for top-performing students, and reinstating the annual mayoral bike ride. Additionally, he champions the establishment of a student intern program, aiming to cultivate an interest in local governance among young minds. Unwavering in his commitment to protecting the town’s integrity, he asserts his readiness to confront any challenges posed by developers seeking to compromise the town’s essence. Voters are encouraged to reach out to him directly via email at [email protected] or by phone at 803-325-4358 for any inquiries or concerns. BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS JUNIOR
Clover, SC - The Clover Town Council recently gathered at its regular meeting on October 9, tackling various pressing matters for the community’s development. An overview of the agenda is provided below. Led by Mayor Greg Holmes, the council began the session with the Pledge of Allegiance, underscored by compliance with the Freedom of Information Act. Noteworthy discussions included a public hearing on Ordinance 23-12, focused on the Annexation of the Clover Area Assistance Center, Inc.’s property and the proposal for a B-2 Highway Commercial zoning classification. The induction of Interim Town Treasurer Barbara Denny and Code Enforcement Officer Nicholas Habiger also occurred during the meeting. While going over and approving the minutes of the previous meeting, the council prioritized ongoing projects such as the development of the Historic Preservation Overlay District and the strategic shift towards commercial zoning along Old North Main Street. Economic initiatives were not left unaddressed, with the endorsement of Resolution 23-11, permitting the sale of alcoholic beverages at the upcoming 2023 Small Business Saturday Event, and proposed updates to the Business License Ordinance in compliance with Act 176 of 2020. Anticipating the community’s growth, the council considered a funding request for the 2023-2024 Main Street Grant, emphasizing their commitment to community development and progress. The meeting concluded with an executive session, demonstrating the council’s dedication to confidential deliberations, paving the way for potential future actions. For more detailed information on the proceedings, citizens are encouraged to access the official town records or reach out to the Town Council office for additional inquiries. BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS JUNIOR
Under the leadership of Chairwoman Christi Cox, the York County Council recently held a comprehensive meeting, addressing critical community issues and making significant decisions that will impact the county's future. The session commenced with the induction of new board and commission members, following the traditional recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. Community Concerns Amplified During the public forum, residents voiced concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest arising from the council's political affiliations and the decision-making process related to the York County Library. Scott Couchenhour, a Fort Mill resident, brought attention to the financial implications of the infrastructure development on local families, calling for more transparency in the council's proceedings. Key Resolutions Passed The council successfully passed several critical resolutions, notably authorizing funding for Keystone Substance Abuse Services from the South Carolina Opioid Recovery Fund Board. Discussions also centered on floodplain management and sustainable development practices, underscoring the council's dedication to responsible growth and community welfare. Council Members' Actions and Plans Council members emphasized the importance of community engagement and transparency, encouraging residents to utilize county services and actively participate in upcoming meetings. They also highlighted the significance of responsible fiscal management, pointing to the need for prudent allocation of resources in various county initiatives. Executive Session Implications The executive session focused on critical personnel matters and legal advice, suggesting the council's proactive approach to address ongoing issues efficiently and effectively. The meeting underscored the council's commitment to inclusive governance and transparent decision-making processes. Residents were encouraged to remain actively engaged in local affairs and participate in shaping the future of York County. For additional information, residents were advised to visit the official York County website or contact the County Manager's Office at 803-684-8511. The next York County Council meetings are scheduled for November 6 and November 20. BY COURTNEY NOVELLINO, CHS JUNIOR
The York County Council convened twice in September to address important matters such as rezoning requests, contract approvals, and public hearings. The meeting commenced with the swearing-in of newly appointed board and commission members. Scott Kendrick and Ira Coltharp joined the Flint Hill Fire Tax District Board, while Margaret Parson-Willins assumed her role on the Culture and Heritage Commission. Susan Piening, Ashley Schemine, Robert Jones, and Cheryl Sige (absent) also took their oaths, demonstrating their commitment to public service. The Council deliberated on various items featured on the consent agenda, including:
Representatives from the Divine Fountain of Hope Women's Center and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) addressed the council, providing insights into their organizations and services. The council then entered an executive session to discuss legal matters, including a settlement agreement for Project: US-21 Force Main Replacement and County Water/Sewer Regulatory Application. In new business, the council adopted a resolution consenting to and ratifying the assignment and assumption of a Fee-in-Lieu of Tax Agreement. Chairwoman Christi Cox adjourned the session, marking the conclusion of another productive York County Council gathering. The next council meetings are scheduled for October 2 and October 16. Agendas and meeting minutes can be found at Council Agendas, Meetings, and Minutes on the York County website. |