2015 2016 City of Walterboro Annual Report by City of Walterboro

2015-2016 Annual Report

Planning for the future

CITY MANAGER December, 7 2015 Mayor William T. Young Mayor Pro Tem Tom Lohr Councilmember Robert Bonds Councilmember Judy Bridge Councilmember James Broderick Councilmember Paul Siegel Councilmember Jimmy Syfrett

Dear Mr. Mayor and Members of City Council: As required by Section 2-101(3) of the Code of Ordinances for the City of Walterboro, I am submitting the Fiscal Year 20152016 Annual Report. This report provides a detailed account of each departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities for the previous fiscal year. Fiscal Year 2015-2016 saw the completion of Phases 1C and 1D of the I-95 Business Loop project, the award of $2,540,000 in grants for upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant and construction of the Hampton Street waterline project. In the next year, the City will begin construction on Phase IB of the I-95 Business Loop Project, the Discovery Center for the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary, upgrades to the Wastewater Treatment Plant and Phase III of the North Lemacks Street Revitalization project. As you review this report, if you have any questions or concerns please call or stop by City Hall. We are committed to providing the highest quality services to the citizens of Walterboro.

Respectfully Submitted,

Jeffrey P. Molinari City Manager

Annual Report | 2015-2016

CITY COUNCIL

Mayor Bill Young

Councilmember James Broderick

Mayor Pro-Tem Tom Lohr

Councilmember Jimmy Syfrett

Councilmember Paul Siegel

Councilmember Bobby Bonds

Councilmember Judy Bridge

Annual Report | 2015-2016

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PLANNING DEPARTMENT

CODE ENFORCEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT

POLICE DEPARTMENT

WPD IMPROVES EQUIPMENT, TRAINING & SERVICES

UTILITIES DEPARTMENT

WATER AND WASTEWATER TREATMENT

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE UPCOMING PROJECTS

PARKS AND BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS

EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING

PUBLIC WORKS

QUALITY SERVICES FOR CITIZENS

TOURISM DEPARTMENT

PUTTING WALTERBORO ON THE MAP

PARKS DEPARTMENT

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

FIRE DEPARTMENT

PREVENTION AND COMMUNITY SERVICE

Annual Report | 2015-2016

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The city of Walterboro adopted the 2015 International Building code. The purpose of the code is to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety and general welfare. The building codes also provide a degree of safety to fire fighters and emergency responders during emergency operations.

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he city of Walterboro building department is responsible for assisting home owners and contractors obtain the necessary permits for renovations, additions and new construction. Our staff provides assistance to the public in order to make the permitting process less of a task. Requirements to secure a permit may include zoning approval, construction documents, site plans and permit applications. Additional information can be found at the city’s website or by calling the building department.

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We await the completion of Low country Equipment Sales and service on Bells Highway and the new auto body repair shop on Robertson Blvd. On the other end of town at Exit 53 the new Hampton Inn hotel is underway. The hotel should be completed in Spring of 2017.

The Planning and Codes Department assures compliance with the International Code Council (building, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, gas and fire) to preserve the safety, health and welfare of City residents.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

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POLICE DEPARTMENT

he Walterboro Police Department has 29 commissioned officers, five dispatchers, two administrative employees and two voluntary chaplains. Charged with fairly and impartially enforcing the laws and ordinances that govern the city, this department chooses to focus on a strong commitment of public service.

The Walterboro Police Department takes every opportunity to interact with the public before emergency services are needed. During the hot summer months, employees from the department make and give away snow cones to as many children as possible while they interact with our officers. This activity occurs at apartment complexes, city parks, and other meeting places throughout the city giving children an opportunity to meet our officers and build positive relationships early. During the fall, the department hosts “cookie with a cop” as a way of strengthening those relationships already developed. These events are held at Forest Hills Elementary School and pre-school centers around Walterboro. As a way of building relationships with adults, the Walterboro Police Department sponsors “coffee with a cop” events. These are held at local restaurants where citizens can ask questions, offer comments, and express their concerns. To assist victims of violent crime, the Walterboro Police Department annually sponsors a candle light vigil and domestic violence walk. It is the department’s hope that these events bring comfort to the victims and their families and also show our genuine concern for our citizens. To better protect the citizens and visitors of Walterboro, the department conducted an active shooter drill and offered training at Forest Hills Elementary School. This exercise allowed the teachers and staff to experience these issues first hand so that they will be better prepared in an event. Similar training, involving a scenario with an emotionally disturbed person, was conducted on the grounds of the Colleton Medical Center. It is the department’s belief that preparation and training will minimize the devastating effects of an incident should the unthinkable happen. Understanding that improving the department can often cost money, the Walterboro Police Department applied for and received several grants during the year. The department applied for and received a grant from the National Rifle Association in the amount of $12,700. These funds were used to purchase ten AR-15 patrol rifles, related equipment and protective cases. This purchase will assist the department begin a building entry team. This team of officers will regularly train together

police chief Wade Marvin

MISSION It is the mission of the Walterboro Police

Department to provide professional police services to the citizens within the City of Walterboro, while fairly and impartially enforcing the laws of the State of South Carolina, in order to reduce crime and maintain a high quality of life for all citizens.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

WALTERBORO

and develop skills used in high risk arrest situations. A well trained group of officers who are knowledgeable with specific procedures will dramatically reduce the chances of officers or citizens being injured during these arrests.

The improvements in equipment, training and services to the community, are being done as an investment in a department that the citizens of Walterboro can be proud of.

To be in compliance with newly enacted laws governing the use of body worn cameras, the City of Walterboro purchased 30 cameras for $52,298.80. The police department applied for a grant from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety to help offset the cost. The department was awarded a grant of $36,812.00, approxmately 70% of the cost of the cameras. Body Armor worn by Walterboro Police Department officers is a costly but necessary expense. The department applied for a grant from the Bureau of Justice Assistance, a division of the U.S. Department of Justice, and received funds to cover one half of the cost of vest needing to be replaced. The city realized a savings of $4,081.35. In 2016 the department realized that the car purchased in 2007 for the victims advocate needed to be replaced. It was regularly experiencing mechanical problems and repairs were costly. Our employees applied for a grant from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, Victims of Crime Act program and were awarded a grant in the amount of $21,920. The victims advocate car was replaced with a new 2017 Ford Explorer at a cost to the city of $5,031.

Watch Gaurd Body Worn Camera

The end of year statistics for 2015 revealed a reduction in violent crimes including murder, robberies, and aggravated assaults. Property crimes were similarly reduced, including burglary, larceny and arson. This year the department hired a department trainer / community relations officer. This officer can provide training to our employees locally. This move will save money by reducing travel expenses and keep more officers working and responding to the needs of the city. It will also help reach one of the departmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals of developing a better trained, more professional officer. He is also tasked with the responsibility of acting as a liaison between the police department and the business community. He will visit businesses in the city to build a positive relationship with them and advise them of the services that can be provided.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

2017 Ford Explorer

WPD COMMUNITY OUTREACH The Walterboro Police Department takes every opportunity to interact with the public before emergency services are needed.

Coffee with a Cop Adult community outreach. Individuals were encouraged to come talk with officers and have a complimentary cup of coffee. (Hardees, Burger King, and Olde House)

Annual Report | 2015-2016

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. WPD held a Walk Against Domestic Violence, shown here.

Cookies With a Cop A community outreach project for children WPD hosted at every school/ preschool in the city limits this fiscal year.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

UTILITIES DEPARTMENT

he City of Walterboro Water system covers a service area of approximately 50 square miles. The distribution system extends as far as the community of Ruffin to our northeast, to the Colleton County Commerce Park north and Hendersonville to our south. There are approximately 5,605 water service connections and 2,830 sewer connections.

The City’s water supply source is groundwater. Walterboro currently owns and operates 15 groundwater supply wells. This process utilizes 4 different aquafers including the Middle Floridan, Lower Floridan, Black Creek and the Middendorf. Most of these wells are interconnected through the distribution system to provide a redundant source during emergencies.

Wayne Crosby Utilities Director

Operation and disinfection vary only slightly from well to well. Four of these wells are operated with timers. These are wells that produce less than 400 gallons per minute and are programmed to be on for 12 hours and off for 12 hours. All of the other sources are controlled with pressure sensors. Each source is disinfected with chlorine gas. All wells are tested annually by SCDHEC and monthly by the City’s own laboratory. A consumer Confidence Report is generated annually to summarize these sample results. This report can be found on the front page of our City website. The City of Walterboro has five elevated storage tanks with a capacity to hold 1,350,000 gallons. Walterboro has one ground storage tank with a capacity of 1,000,000 gallons. This storage capacity allows the water department to meet peak demands and maintain flow during fire emergencies or major storms. The average daily water production is 1.67 million gallons per day (mgd). The current permit allows the City to pump a total of 4.675 mgd. This buffer provides the ability to meet high demand and to expand the system. The Water Department employs seven operators that are responsible for the day to day maintenance and operation. -These employees check wells daily to record the amount of flow and the concentration of chlorine in order to meet the SCDHEC and EPA requirements. -They install new taps and water lines. -Much of their time is spent repairing lines and meters. -This department reads meters bimonthly. - Operation of valves and flushing of fire hydrants are preformed semi-annually. -The City’s Utility Department is required to locate our utilities for other utility contractors that may be in conflict with the distribution and collection line locations.

COMMITMENT The Water and Sewer departments

are responsible for all activities related to providing our citizens with clean, safe and reliable water and the treatment of sewer effluent. In addition to working with contractors to locate the water lines and force mains, your employees check all wells and pumping stations daily, make taps and repairs and read meters. Someone is on duty at all times. We are committed to ensuring the quality of your water. Each year the City produces and provides to all citizens an Annual Drinking Water Quality Report. This report is designed to inform you about the quality water and services we deliver to you every day.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

- Installation and maintenance of all fire hydrants are part of the duties of the Water Department. During 2014, the design was completed for a water line upgrade and extension along Hampton Street from Francis Street to Peurrifoy Road. This included the installation of approximately 4387 feet of new 6” water line, 4633 feet of new 8” water line, 9 fire hydrants and numerous upgraded service connections. This project was completed in 2016 and came in under budget. Funding for the construction of this upgrade was provided by a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) from The Department of Commerce. In 2016 the City accepted bids for a new water booster pump station that will be constructed near the 1,000,000 gallon storage tank. This project will increase fire protection to downtown and surrounding areas. The construction will be $599,000 and should begin in November 2016. A portion of this funding will be provided by the 1% sales tax recently approved by Colleton County. The remaining funding will be provided through a grant from The Department of Commerce.

Waste Water Treatment

process on a limited basis and to construct an alternate process for disposal. The land application process is desirable because of the cost efficiency. However, the proposed alternate process would allow the opportunity to remain in compliance and dispose of the byproduct regardless of volume, weather conditions and biological concentrations that occur at the application site. The engineered design for the biosolids upgrade is complete and has been approved by SCDHEC. The City has been successful in acquiring funding for this project from the State Rural Infrastructure Authority, Economic Development and The State Revolving Loan Fund. The request for construction bids were published in November, 2016 and bids will be accepted in December of 2016. The proposed Schedule for Completion of this project is December of 2017. In April of 2010, The City of Walterboro submitted a proposal for a WWTP Expansion to SCDHEC. This Report was approved by DHEC for an expansion up to 4.5 MGD. A full expansion to this capacity would cost approximately $9.45 million. The City now has the ability to expand our treatment facility should large industries choose to locate in Colleton County.

The City of Walterboro’s WWTP serves most of Walterboro and the portions of the surrounding county. The design capacity of this facility is 2.64 MGD. Approximately 51% of the water customers are also served by the wastewater system. The City currently employs 4 full time operators. The treatment process consists of miles of gravity sewer line and 14 active pump stations. In the last 9 years, 6 of these stations have been rehabilitated. The rehabilitation consisted of new piping and new pumps in each case. New wet wells and alternative power sources were included in those stations that had exceeded their useful life. The treatment plant was constructed in 1988. This plant has a biological treatment process that utilizes activated sludge. This differs from most other systems in that three separate processes occur in one basin (aeration, settlement and clarification). This is commonly referred to as an SBR. The final step in the process is sludge disposal. Currently a Class B biosolid is produced and land applied on a 52 acre plot west of I-95 along Hwy 63. Recent changes in the way we are required to sample certain parameters have determined that this site will no longer support the volume of sludge produced by the City of Walterboro. The City’s Utility Department has petitioned SCDHEC to allow the continued use of the land application

Western Star 4700 PRL-14T

Personnel 1 - Utilities Director 1 - Plant supervisor 2 - Water/sewer foremen 1 - uncertified water tech 4 FT 1 PT - certified water techs 1 - Truck Driver

11 Total

Annual Report | 2015-2016

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE

y r e v o c s i D ter Cen projected cost

timeline August 2016 Request for Qualifications (RFQ) sent out for architectural and engineering services for the Discovery Center

$1.5 Million

September 2016

RFQâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s received and evaluated by staff

October 2016

Firms interviewed by City Council

November 2016

Architect/Engineer selected by City Council

Nov, 2016â&#x20AC;&#x201C;May 2017

Develop plans for Discovery Center

SC Heritage Corridor Grant............................................$50,000

June 2017

Bid project

SC Competitive Grant...............................................................$50,000

July 2017

Award contract

MASC Grant.........................................................................................$25,000

August 2017

Begin construction

City of Walterboro.................................................................$1.375,000

August 2018

Complete construction

September 2018

Walterboro Wildlife Discovery Center opens

funding sources

Annual Report | 2015-2016

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Capital Project Sales tAx .............................$6,640,597 CDBG Grant......................................................................$500,000 SCDOT......................................................................................$400,000 CTC.............................................................................................$100,000

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Walterboro Welcome Center Annual Report | 2015-2016

PARKS DEPARTMENT

he Parks Department continues to oversee the grounds maintenance throughout the city including all five city parks and playgrounds. Playgrounds were brought up to specifications, installing and refilling the proper playground surfacing material. Park staff continues to oversee the facilities and grounds maintenance of the Forest Hills Tennis Courts, and were able to do a thorough job in cleaning the tennis courts surfacing to remove algae, mold, mildew, etc. Staff also completed the cutting/cleaning of Ireland creek from the extensive amount of vegetation that overtook the creek.

Adam Davis Parks Director

The Parks Department oversees the beautification of exit 53 and 57. This operation includes the mowing of the interchanges and mile out areas. Park staff also works extensively in maintaining the shrubbery, roses, crape myrtles, etc that make up the exits along I-95. The Parks Department completed the mulching of the interchange at exit 57 on I-95, which this task has not been completed in house before. Pre-emeregent is applied throughout specific times of year to control the weed issues in the flower beds along the interstate and flower beds throughout town. Staff will also apply an herbicide to these areas to help eliminate time consumed pulling weeds, especially in the big flower beds on the interstate. The Parks Department also oversees the landscaping of the downtown areas. Parks staff teams up with the Public Works Department Friday mornings to blow sidewalks, parking areas, etc to clean the streets and provide a welcoming environment for those shopping in our Main Street/ downtown area. The grounds and landscaping operations at City Hall and the Annex building is also completed by the Parks Department. The Parks Department oversees the Little Library square, which has just seen a face lift due to some new landscaping and the cleaning of the brick pavers and the building itself. Parks Staff also maintains the landscaping of some right-a-ways and other properties throughout the city. The Parks Department also maintains over 20 different irrigation systems throughout the city that contribute to beautification process of grounds and landscapes. The Parks Department oversees the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary. This includes the mowing of the grounds, maintaining all landscapes, cleanliness throughout the sanctuary, keeping trails clear of debris, maintaining boardwalks and trails, and providing a welcoming environment for visitors and residents.

Mission The Parks Department strives to maintain and enhance the beautification of city properties and landscapes at a high level. Our objective is to provide a pleasant and welcoming environment for the community and visitors as they explore our city.

Parks Department spring yearly projects consist of cleaning the tennis courts surfacing, apply pre- emergent to flower beds, mulching of flower beds, conducting a fertilization program. Parks Department summer projects consist of pressure washing boardwalks and bridges throughout the sanctuary.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

Parks Department fall/winter projects are cutting/cleaning Ireland Creek, and the slopes and ditches at exit 53. Staff will also start trimming ornamentals late winter to get ready for spring growth. The Parks Director staffs the Tree Protection Committee. The Tree Protection Committee is responsible for reviewing Tree Removal Permit Applications and requests for reduction of mitigation requirements. The committee reviews major and minor applications and hears any requests denied by staff approval. Staff approval of applications comes in the form of removal of dead or hazard trees, or the removal of pine trees which do not require committee approval. The committee has spent the past two years revising the tree protection provisions in the UDO to the city by way of the Planning Commission. The committee has finalized their recommendations for improvements and they have been forwarded to the Planning Commission for review.

Projects for the upcoming fiscal year will be painting the wood fencing at all city parks. City staff will also look to mulch all flower beds at exit 53 and mile out planted areas that have not seen a face lift since the installation of landscaping several years ago. This task has not been completed by city staff before and will save the city over $30,000 completing the replenishing of mulch in the ornamental beds at the interstate instead of contracting this service out.

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l associati city, inclu on of south ding the carolina entir on a week Special ly basis. Also, e downtown area, Section ance Boar Infrastr d organizes the City Appearucture where indiv city-wide cleanups iduals can up litter, volunteer Molinari to pick Easily acces said. sible from along the exits 53 and I-95 corri 57 dor, Walt extensively erboro landscaped at those exits the interchanhas ment main with the city’s Parks ges tainin DepartWalterbor g the landscapin g. a downtown o recently comp leted arborscape included project that new tree plantings, and curbi sidewalk ng crosswalk repairs, and speci alty pavin s. Brick monu g were place d at key inter ment columns sections. The most project that significant beautificat the city has ion I-95 Busin undertake ess Loop, n is the Molinari has ident said. The ified a 6.35 city mile trans corridor that runs portation through I-95 exit the 53 to exit city from 57. The proje n Reed v.include sidew ct will Town of Gilber alks, cross unanimmedi walks, lands ans, wayfit, the U.S. Suprem ously that caped Gilbert,nding e Court held various street Arizonsigna categories lighti a’s signge, ornamental of ng code, information and temporary tempo Illustration which treated decor rary The by Art Lien directional signsative they arborscape differe mast Pastor Reed, signs , violate ntly arms. As the Court convey andd the lands to direct parish such as those used First Amen based on the detailed in code restrichave been favorably by the plainti dmentcts its majori capin a great ioners to than politic . tions on tempo sourcty opinion,g proje his church ff, resid location and al signs ents Content-bas Gilber rary directi e of pride were for t’s sign durati and have ed laws are and ideological signs. treated less beenonal of speech by visitoon amoun scrutiny—if regarding verysigns . Central rs, Molinted to a conten wellthey are narrowonly constitutiona size, to the Court’ari t-basedreceiv government l if repor restriced ted. interest. Despit ly tailored to serve they pass strict tion SPECIAL A visitor’s firsts opinio n was categories a compelling e arguments impressio the fact that are based the streetscap that n is often on functio n, the Court Gilbert’s sign enter a comm e that they see as concluded they they are unity , agree Reed Manager v. Town, page d In Flore Drew Griffi Octo nce City 2 > ber, Sou n.hist “If that stree th Carolin oric tscap ians face e is well tendeproportion and gene rally litter d flooding s. Read d -free then impressio Walterboro, “Cities on of that is the n that is rescue SC frontline imprinted mind,” Griffi and reco of flood in their very” chance once n said. “You only space. The get that .” PagFlore Keep e 3 nce Committe A clean street e holds annu Beautiful scape also to businesses Neighbor speaks volum spaces are hood group al litter collection and maintaine es and s. keep “New indus developers, he adde s work with d, which hold neigh ing roads try inclu the d. borhood and city interests clean-up City offici natural asset , parks, town facili des want to inves other business days. als are inves ties, and nity with t in a stron Creek free s like the marshes ting more residents g commu- $25 million over and Shem from litter than who a three concerned streetscap certain level, and about their are involved and e and beau -year period in according maintained at a ment,” Griffi physical envir tification within the Assistant n projects downtown onTown Adm to Mount Pleasant sibility and said. “It speaks to highways and other inistrator respona good work and stree important Hendricks. Katherine terms the t corri ethic of these fund dors. Some . In gener physical envir There is an al the quali economic manner that s are being invested ism, and ty of life and onment speaks benefit to in in conn to a touri tourThose same ects neigh to comm sm, imag and make Hendricks unity pride borh e is every qualities s the city said. . peop are what thing, are looki more walk oods le walk ng for when employers “Take for able. they hire.” connected more they will beco As In recent destinatio example Shem Cree years, the to the phys me more n. Having has const City of Flore and will a waterway k as a litter-free ructed 20 in turn recog ical environment nce and clean that is miles of preserved of beautifica nize the impo helps keep economy trails and more than tion, Griffi vibrant so the rtance 1000 acres n said. visitors want local The Town and recre of open ate of Mount to come very high Pleasant when it comeon the creek and standard has think a s to dining local for how its seafood,” out for fresh public she said.

Walterboro’s Parks were featured in the MASC Newsletter in November of 2015

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The Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary was impacted from the flood of October 2015. City staff worked to clear the trails from debris and downed trees. Boardwalks were covered by the flood and boardwalks collapsed due to fallen trees. Staff worked extensively to repair boardwalks and re-grade and replenish the gravel trails.

AFTER

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The Parks Director also staffs the Friends of the Great Swamp Sanctuary (F.R.O.G.S.). This group has worked diligently over the past several years brainstorming ideas and concepts to develop a discovery center for the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary. Meeting with several nature enthusiasts and architects, the group finalized a wish list of things they would like to see from a discovery center. Taking their wish list, an architectural firm was hired to design some conceptual drawings of what the discovery center might look like.

BEFORE

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Personnel 1 - Parks Director 1 - Parks Supervisor 5 - Parks Laborers

7 Total

Annual Report | 2015-2016

FINANCE DEPARTMENT

he City of Walterboro Finance Department is responsible for managing all of the City’s finances and oversees the operation of municipal court. These functions include: the receipt of funds such as taxes, license fees, service charges and other City revenues; payment of City expenses and employee payrolls; and investment of City revenue. The Finance Department engages in record keeping and reporting including a state-mandated audited annual financial report and monthly reports on City Operations designed to keep the City Council, City Manager, and Department Managers informed about the City’s financial status. The Finance Department assists the City Manager with the development and publication of the City’s budget. Financial management services are provided by the Finance Department to the Water and Sewer Department. Finance provides administrative support to City departments in the process of inviting and awarding legally required bids for large City purchases.

Amy Risher Finance Director

The Finance Department is also responsible for the successful administration of various employment-related systems and programs including employee recruitment, employee development, compensation and benefits management, employee relations, and risk management. The Finance Department’s activities promote the efficient and effective delivery of quality services to citizens and enhance safety within the community. The mission of the finance department is achieved by implementing the following methods: • Providing accurate, complete and timely information regarding the City’s financial condition and transactions. • Protecting City assets against unauthorized use and managing City assets for their most productive use. • Administering the City’s revenue ordinances and finance-related laws, regulations and contracts in an efficient and equitable manner. • Providing administrative services to other City departments to obtain the supplies, equipment, and services they need. • Implementing effective procedures for the timely liquidation of all properly documented City liabilities which ensures compliance with all legal requirements. • Maintaining a commitment to a high level of personal productivity and a continuous pursuit of the means for improving the Department’s procedures and achieving significant personal satisfaction in the staff’s professional roles. • Recruiting, orienting, and developing qualified and motivated employees dedicated to the service of the Walterboro community through its City government. • Working closely with all departments on personnel matters.

MISSION The mission of the Finance Department is to provide high quality financial services to all of its customers, both external and internal and to recruit and maintain an able and highly motivated work force and to assist the City government to operate in a financially responsible and fiscally sound manner.

• Promoting fair and equitable application of personnel guidelines. • Assisting employees with work-related problems.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

• Coordinating a competitive compensation and benefits management program. • Encouraging open communication, active participation, and organizational identity. • Administering a comprehensive risk management program. The Finance Department is also responsible for collecting all utility bills, police fines, licenses, taxes, and state shared revenue. To ease the payment process for any of these purposes, the Finance, Utility Billing, and Judicial Departments have moved to the City Hall Annex, thus creating a one-stop payment center for all of these functions. The new building features closer parking spaces for customers as well as an “express” lane with a bank style payment tube to make the process more convenient. The Finance Department also improved the utility bill you receive by adding historical information about your account, including a return payment envelope, and adding a special message area where the City may communicate important information regarding the City. All clerks in the clerk of court office are cross-trained to handle any of the following tasks: Interact and communicate with a wide variety of individuals and groups such as violators, lawyers, law enforcement, and affiants. Set court dates, type/print warrants, collect fines, prepare weekly activity report, court dockets, jury dockets and preliminary dockets, input and file tickets and warrants by court dates, dispose of tickets after court, print transmittal forms to County or Highway Dept, send subpoena’s and preliminary letters to victims for court, manage programs such as Pre Trial Intervention, Anger Management, Drug Abuse, etc. Print and mail any reschedule letters, handle remands from General Sessions Court and maintain filing system. If a ticket is nolle prossed, expungements are required and only the clerk of court processes these. There are two bond judges that alternate weekly to conduct bond court twice a day, seven days a week. The municipal judge with two clerks conducts court every Thursday night. All judges could be called at any given time to sign warrants.

AWARDS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS Received GFOA Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. (4th year)

Received grant award in the amount of $50,000 from USDA for police vehicles.

Received grant award in the amount of $500,000 from SC Rural Infrastructure Authority for upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant.

Received grant award in the amount of $2,040,000 from

Economic Development Administration for upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant.

Walterboro Police Dept received grant award in the

amount of $36,812 from SCDPS, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Program for body-worn cameras.

Personnel 1 - Finance director 1 - HR Specialist 1 - Senior Accounts Payable 1 - Payroll Clerk 3 - Clerk/Cashiers 1 - City Judge 1 - Clerk of court 1 - Clerk/Cashier FT 1 - Clerk/Cashier PT

Walterboro Police Dept received a grant award in the

amount of $20,124 from SCDPS for a victim’s advocate vehicle.

11 Total

Annual Report | 2015-2016

PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT

he City of Walterboro Public Works department came under new leadership for the 2015-2016 fiscal year. The new leadership came from within the department. Michael Crosby, the former Street Superintendent has taken over the reins as Public Works Director.

The Public Works Department is responsible for an array of community services. This department is a combination of several services: Sanitation, Public Works, and Sewer Support. The duties of this department include solid waste collection, maintaining gravity sewer lines, yard debris removal, facilities maintenance, and fleet maintenance.

Michael Crosby public works director

The Sanitation Department provides twice a week garbage pickup for residential services and a pay by dump for commercial. The residential garbage collection serves 1651 customers, while the commercial garbage collection serves 227 customers. This operation is completed with 3 residential garbage trucks and 2 commercial trucks. The Public Works personnel provide services made up of yard debris removal, grounds maintenance, facilities maintenance, and street maintenance. Yard debris and trash removal is collected on a weekly basis throughout the city. We operated a front loader using a â&#x20AC;&#x153;tink claw bucketâ&#x20AC;? with two open body trash trucks shuttling back and forth to the landfill. We operate a grapple loader on a trash truck to pick up yard debris in curb and sidewalk sensitive areas. Household items such as appliances and furniture are picked up on a call in basis. The ground maintenance and street maintenance personnel takes care of maintaining rightsof-way, streets, and city lots cutting grass, cleaning catch basins, drains, tree removal, etc. These duties include overseeing litter pickup, street sweeping, and pothole patching. Public works also oversees the street lights and ornamental lighting. From a facilities maintenance standpoint, Public Works oversees the maintenance of City Hall, City Annex, and other City Facilities. The Sewer Support services involve maintaining the gravity sanitary sewer system for the city. Sewer Support personnel respond to sewer issues on a 24/7 basis relieving stoppages and making the necessary repairs when needed. Sewer support includes maintaining sewer right-of-ways throughout the city to the Treatment Facility.

MISSION The Public Works Department strives to provide essential services and infrastructure to enhance the everyday life of our community.

The Public Works department works with contractors on various street and sewer projects. This includes the North Lemacks Revitalization Project and the Loop Project.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

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Annual Report | 2015-2016 g49 o62 cELEbRAT

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TOURISM DEPARTMENT

he Tourism Department oversees the Walterboro Tourism Commission, an I.R.S. designated 501 C (6) nonprofit. It is a central tourism resource dedicated to increasing the exposure of local tourist attractions in the Walterboro area.

The Tourism Commission has built a solid foundation with a visual identity, logo and tag-line certified by the Secretary of State. The Walterboro Welcome center opened in May 2007 and serves as the headquarters. The center has a prime location on Interstate 95 and works cooperatively with state and local welcome centers to promote the entire region.

Michelle Strickland Tourism Director

When The Welcome Center opened in May of 2007, it started with about 168 car loads a month, and that has grown today to about 600 groups a month, or approximately 18,000 people a year. Several new things were implemented in fiscal year 2015-2016 that have helped further the mission of the tourism commission and serve the community. Brag A Little About Walterboro The Walterboro Tourism Commission has made great strides towards putting Walterboro on the map as a tourist destination by marketing the city to tourists through traditional means like broadcast, print, billboard and digital advertising. However WTC has taken things one step further with a non-traditional and forward-thinking marketing campaign implemented in 2015 called Brag A Little About Walterboro. Approximately 800 signs were distributed and over 400 people engaged and posted to social media in just one week. The Fireball Run

ere our Message H

An international web series called The Fireball Run visited Walterboro on October 1, 2015 on East Washington Street. This 8-day 2,000 mile lifesize trivia pursuit game featured 40 driving teams. The series heavily incorporates destinations, integrating area history, culture, museums, people, and places, and has over 1.7 million viewers worldwide. Walterboro put its best food forward by closing the streets and welcoming the racers, providing lunch for the 150 Fireball Run crew and staff in Waterfall Plaza, and drawing a crowd of 300 plus local residents. WTC arranged for a live radio broadcast, and there were giveawayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and door prizes for everyone.

TOURISM OBJECTIVE The Walterboro Tourism Commission is a central resource dedicated to increasing visibility of the tourism industry within the Walterboro area. Its objective is to promote and attract crucial tourism related dollars for economic growth. We protect our quality of life with the development and promotion of Walterboro as a tourist destination.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

Grants

New Tourism Landing Page

The tourism director completed the annual SCPRT TAG Program (Tourism Advertising Grant) and was awarded $44,190, an increase from the previous fiscal year.

Todays traveler does most of their destination research and planning on-line. According to Miles Travel Research, a leader in the tourism industry, on-line sources of information are used by 90% of US leisure and business travelers and over 80% of all international visitors. Digital advertising is no longer a separate function in many organizations but is a fundamental part of both marketing and management. The tourism department dedicated significant resources towards digital advertising this fiscal year. All traffic was driven to a new landing page within the municipal web site shown below. The tourism department will oversee the development of a new website in 2016-2017 to further enhance the user experience.

The tourism director also secured a South Carolina National Heritage Corridor Grant for $50,000 for the development of the Walterboro Wildlife Sanctuary Discovery Center, and continues to seek out more funding for the project. PUBLIC RELATIONS AND AWARDS This fiscal year, the tourism department made it a priority to seek out awards and recognition for Walterboro and its attractions, and it paid off. Governor’s Conference Bundy Award The City of Walterboro Tourism Department nominated the Colleton Museum, Farmers Market & Commercial Kitchen for the prestigious Charles A. Bundy Award, which celebrates tourism success in rural parts of South Carolina. They were selected as the recipient. South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley recognized Walterboro at the annual Governor’s Conference on Tourism & Travel. Rice Festival Southeast Tourism Society Award The Southeast Tourism Society (STS) is dedicated to promoting and developing tourism in its member states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Through the efforts of the tourism department, The Southeast Tourism Society named The Colleton County Rice Festival one of the STS Top 20 Events in the Southeast for April 2016. Travel industry experts select 20 events per month, and STS publicizes them throughout the United States. The complete list is published on two websites: EscapeToTheSoutheast. com and Travel Media Press Room. FestiVELO WTC assisted in bringing a new festival to Walterboro this fiscal year — FestiVELO. FestiVELO, a USA Cycling sanctioned festival in its 18th year, has traveled all over the state. Event organizer Charles Fox says they plan to keep this event in Walterboro for several years, bringing over 300 out-of-town visitors to Walterboro for 5 days and 4 nights.

Civic and Professional Representation INTERNATIONAL: -The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) -Criterium International Bicycle Race National: -Southeast Tourism Society (STS) STATE: -Governor’s Travel & Tourism Coalition -South Carolina Nature-Based Tourism Society (SCNBTA) -SC Parks, Recreation & Tourism- Tourism Partner REGIONAL: -Lowcountry & Resort Islands Tourism Commission - Vice President LOCAL: -Walterboro Tourism Commission (Secretary/Treasurer) -Friends of the Great Swamp Sanctuary (FROGS)-Staff liaison -Economic Development Commission- Staff Liaison -Downtown Walterboro Criterium Committee-Chairperson

Tourism

Landing Page on the city website.

Annual Report | 2015-2016

FIRE DEPARTMENT

he Walterboro Fire Department is committed to serving the Walterboro area community with the highest level of life and property protection. We will achieve this by providing excellent and compassionate service in an atmosphere that encourages innovation, professional development and diversity.

The mission of the Walterboro Fire Department is to protect the lives and property of the people of Walterboro from fires, to prevent fires through prevention and education programs; and to provide a work environment that values cultural diversity and is free of harassment and discrimination. We provide quality service, professional fire protection and life safety to meet the needs of our community.

Wayne Lake Fire Chief

Our values are: Teamwork, Our team members are our most valuable assets; Respect, Trust, support and honor both internal and external; Service, we strive for excellence. The Walterboro Fire Department is made up of a group of dedicated personnel that represent the diversity of the community. These persons work every day of the year to improve the quality of service provided to the community. Our Vision: To challenge ourselves to continue to gain more knowledge through education. Complete fire and preplan inspections on all commercial buildings on an annual basis. To increase the number of fire safety classes to educate our citizens concerning fire prevention. To share our knowledge, wisdom and experience with our newest firefighters. Fire Stations/Buildings The City Fire Department has (3) Fire Stations. Station #1 was constructed in 1974 and is located at 213 Carn Street.Station #2 was constructed in 2007 and is located at 1273 Sniders Hwy. Station #3 was constructed in 2008 and is located at 202 Roberson Blvd. The Training Building was constructed in 2012. The Smoke House addition was constructed in 2012.

Apparatus The City Fire Department has (8) Vehicles. 2014 Ford Explorer 2012 Ford Pick Up Truck 2004 Emergency One Fire Pumper 2002 Emergency One Quint/Ladder 1999 Emergency One Fire Pumper 1998 Ford Crown Vic 1989 Emergency One Fire Pumper 1984 Quality Service Truck

MISSION To protect the quality of life for present and future generations through interaction with our community, compassionate service and an atmosphere that encourages innovation, professionalism, and diversity.

Scott Air Pak X3 purchased with FEMA equipment Grant

Annual Report | 2015-2016

Emergency Response Below is a detailed breakdown of the emergency response calls that the fire department responded to from July 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016. Total Number of Emergency Calls – 382 Working Structure Fires – 8 Other Fires – 38 Overheated (no fire) – 1 Assist with Rescue & EMS - 109 Hazardous Condition (no fire) - 30 Service Call – 36 Good Intent Call – 48 False Alarm or False Call – 108 Severe Weather – 3 Special Incident Type - 1 Pre – Incident Value $14,169,550 Losses $526,500 Fire Prevention Our Goal is to keep the number of fire calls as low as possible through fire prevention, education and commercial building fire prevention inspections. Fire Safety Presentations Forest Hills 1st Grade Forest Hills 2nd Grade Forest Hills 3rd Grade First Baptist Church Pre School Gruber Street Pre School Edgewood Baptist Pre School Forest Hill Daycare Walmart Safety Fair Fire Inspections Building Fire Prevention Inspections & Re inspections – 834 Building Preplans Completed – 37

complete flow, static and residual testing of all fire hydrants on an annual basis. Fire Hose Testing The Fire Department has 12,780 feet of fire hose that is tested annually. Maintenance/Testing Program Fire Pumpers and the Quint/Ladder Truck are inspected annually. Fire Pumpers and the Quint/Ladder Truck are serviced annually. Flow Testing of all SCBA’s are completed when required. Fit Testing SCBA mask are completed annually. Air Purification System is serviced annually. Physicals for all Personnel are completed annually. Fire Extinguisher Hydro Testing is completed when required. SCBA’s Hydro Testing is completed when required. Building Maintenance is completed as needed. Other Events Participate in Public Service Events. Install the American Flags on Washington Street for Memorial day, Flag day and the Fourth of July. Complete a monthly inspection of all City Fire Extinguishers. Conduct Fire Extinguisher Classes when requested. Collect for MDA Participate in MLK Parade, Rice Festival Parade, Veterans Parade, & the Christmas Parade. Participate with Shop with a Hero Program. Assemble and disassemble the Christmas tree in front of City Hall. Participate in the Christmas tree lighting ceremony.

Personnel Full time personnel 1 - Fire Chief 3 - Captains 6 - Driver Operators

1 - Fire Inspector/Training coordinator

4 - Fire Fighter II

Training

2 - Basic Fire Fighters

The Fire service is very complex and ever changing so training is crucial. Training is broken down into (3) categories.

Part time personnel

Personal Monthly Training – Each month all personnel are required to complete a monthly training assignment. Crew Training – Each shift the crew will trained together. This would include Pump Operations, Ladder Operations, Driver and Fire Tactic training. Monthly Company Training – A monthly training meeting is conducted for all personnel to participate in scenario based training, building preplans etc. Total Training Hours for all personnel – 12,424.25 Additional Activities Fire Hydrant Flow Test There are 399 Fire Hydrants in the City limits. Fire Personnel

3 - Fire Fighter II/ EMT 1 - Fire Fighter II On Call Fire Personnel 1 -1152 Fire Fighter 1 - Fire Fighter I 3 - Fire Fighter II public Safety Personel 2 - Basic Fire Fighters 9 - Fire Fighter I 6 - Fire Fighter II

40 Total (Please Note: When a Public Safety Officer leaves employment with the city, this number will continue to decrease.)

Annual Report | 2015-2016

TRAINING Individual Certifications Decision Making for Initial Company = 12 Strategy and Tactics for Initial Company Operations =11 Preparation for Initial Company Operations = 10 Pump Operations = 2 Fire & Life Safety Educator = 1 Emergency Vehicle Driver Training = 2 Aerial Operations = 3 Fire Arson Origin & Cause Investigation = 5 Recruit Fire Fighter = 1 Fire Fighter I = 1 Fire Fighter II = 2 Fire Ground Simulation = 3 Behind the Scenes = 1 Step Up Your Teamwork = 1 Step Up & Stand Out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; How to Provide Exceptional Service = 1 Normalization of Deviance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; How to Overcome Complacency = 1 Rescuing the Rescuer = 1 Hazardous Materials Awareness = 1 Hazardous Materials Operations = 1 Basic Auto Extrication = 1 Flammable Liquids and Gas Fire Fighting = 1

Mutual Aid Channels & Talk Groups = 1 Command & Control Communications = 1 Alternate Communications = 1 Emergency Telecommunications = 1 Auxiliary Communications = 1 Communications Interoperability = 1 Radio Communications 101 = 1 Photovoltaic 101 = 1 Stress First Aid for Fire Personnel = 1 Courage To Be Safe = 1 Stress and First Aid for the Street = 1 Creating Change in the Fire Service = 1 Leadership, Accountability, Culture and Knowledge = 1 Operational First Responders = 1 Introduction to Incident Command System = 1 Improving Tactical Decision Making = 3 ISFSI Thinking Firefighter = 3 Fire Safety & Health Management = 1 Emergency Vehicle Driver Training IOW = 1 Fire Service Supervision = 1 IOW For Hazardous Materials Technician = 1 Department Wellness Program = 1

Training Operations in Small Departments = 1 Introduction To Technical Rescue = 1

Annual Report | 2015-2016

City of Walterboro

242 Hampton Street • Walterboro, SC 29488 843-782-1000 • www.walterborosc.org

Annual Report | 2015-2016