Elgin News - 6B 2024

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Letters to the Editor

The Elgin News P.O. Box 152 Elgin, SC 29045

Cate Goff, Editor (803) 513-5108

From The Mayor's Desk

By: Mayor Melissa Brazell Emmons

Note: From The Mayor’s Desk is submitted by Mayor Melissa Emmons and is not the official minutes of the Elgin Town Council.

The regular monthly meeting of the Elgin Town Council was held on Tuesday, June 4, 2024, at 6:00 pm at the Elgin Town Hall. Those present included Councilman Brad Hanley, Councilman Paul Rizzo, Mayor Melissa Emmons, Chief Alan Anders, and Becky Summey, Elgin Town Clerk. Councilwoman Dana Sloan and Councilwoman Cristy Bradley were absent. Councilwoman Dana Sloan participated via ZOOM and conference call. The Invocation was given by Mayor Emmons and was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, which was led by Councilman Hanley.

A motion to approve the minutes from the Regular Meeting held on Tuesday, May 7, 2024, was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. There was no one signed up to speak during Public Forum. A motion to adopt the agenda was made by Councilman Paul Rizzo, 2nd by Councilman Brad Hanley, with a unanimous vote from Council. The following New Business License Applications were approved in May 2024: (1) L&S Creations-craft vendor, (2) Imperial Bag Company-commercial bag supplier, (3) Your Doorstep Delights-craft vendor, (4) Kit Mandau-jewelry craft vendor, (5) Konundrum Kandi-jewelry craft vendor, (6) Moore Brotherstrucking company, (7) Griffin Pools-pool installer, (8) Sherry’s Shelf-craft vendor, and (9) A+ Hood Systems-commercial kitchen hood install. As always, we welcome new businesses to our community and encourage you to visit them and shop locally.

The following Charity Permit Request was approved for May 2024-(1) The Dog Wrangler-hot dog food truck to be located at the Food Lion in Elgin on the following dates-05/01/24, 05/22/24, and 05/29/24. If you or your organization wishes to hold a fundraising event in the Town of Elgin, please remember to check with Elgin Town Hall about completing a Charity Permit Request Form prior to the event taking place. There were no complaints filed for the month of May 2024. There was a Public Hearing for the 2024-2025 Town of Elgin Budget, but no one signed up to speak.

In Old Business, Councilman Brad Hanley provided an update on the Elgin Community Center Construction Project that included the following information: (1) there is very little activity to report at this time other than information stating that we are still dealing with a sewer issue involving the size of pipes and slope of flow. We hope to have this resolved as soon as possible.

Also in Old Business, a motion to approve the 2nd Reading for the 2024-2025 Town of Elgin Budget (Ordinance 246) was made by Councilman Brad Hanley, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. The total for the fiscal year budget is $1,692,860.

In New Business, Chief Anders provided Council an update on the following item: (1) Robert Cooper, former Sgt. with Forest Acres Police Department for (13) years has been hired as a Patrol Officer for the Elgin Police Department.

Also in New Business, a motion to appoint Nathan Powell to the Elgin Planning and Zoning Commission was made by Mayor Melissa Emmons, 2nd by Councilman Brad Hanley, with a unanimous vote from Council. Mr. Powell fills the last vacant seat on the commission.

In Council Briefings, Councilman Paul Rizzo had no report. Councilman Brad Hanley provided an update on the Catawba Watershed and stated that Charlotte is requesting a change to the existing permit conditions and the Santee Lynches Council of Government supports the request and will be conducting a meeting in June to gather input from the public. Councilwoman Dana Sloan had no report. Mayor Melissa Emmons reminded everyone of the upcoming MASC Annual Conference in July in Greenville and has requested that anyone wishing to attend complete their worksheet and submit it to her prior to June 17th so that she can get everyone registered. Attorney John Wells reminded Council that if they desire to bid out the lawn care service, this would be the time to consider it based

See MAYOR'S DESK, Page 9 >>

The Elgin News builds community and brings people together by informing everyone about local businesses, services, schools organizations, government, activities, events and other information useful for becoming involved. It helps those who live and work in Elgin to get to know each other as people and to become friends.

The Elgin News accepts no responsibility for the contents of the advertisements or articles. Advertisements and articles are accepted with the full responsibility of the advertiser for worth and accuracy. Readers who wish to comment or have concerns regarding advertisements contained herein are urged to phone the Elgin News at (803) 513-5108 or (803) 466-4604. The Elgin News will discontinue accepting advertising from firms of alleged dubious reputation.

Rates are net - discount agreements must be reflected on the publication order. Invoices due on receipt. Tearsheets and proofs available upon request. Advertising setup, changes and publication verification are provided at no charge. 15% agency comm. is 30-days firm. Photography charges negotiable. By-line articles are the property of the contributor and may not be reproduced without permission.

The Elgin News, PO Box 152, Elgin, SC 29045 · (803) 513-5108 Cate Goff, Editor · Email: elginnews@gmail.com

Elgin PD Incident Reports

ABC Violation / DUS 2nd / Expired Tag / Operating Uninsured: Officer Dover initiated a traffic stop on a Gold in color GMC Sierra near the intersection of Main St / Green Hill Rd which is located within the boundaries of the Town of Elgin (Kershaw County) in reference to a vehicle license violation. Once I made contact with the driver, I stated the reason for the stop and requested his license, registration and insurance. The driver stated that he knew about the tag issue and the insurance issue. He also stated that he did not have any license, but he had a SC ID card. The driver was identified as Subject. I had Subject ran through dispatch, which he came back suspended/ disqualified. This would be his second offense. He was clear wants/warrants. I asked Subject to step out of his vehicle, which he did without any further incident. I explained to Subject about the issues, which he stated again that he already knew. I asked him if there was anything in the vehicle I should be aware about, which he stated that there was not. He gave me consent to search the vehicle. KCSO arrived on scene to assist with the stop. During the search of the vehicle, the only finding was an alcoholic beverage (Liquor) that was open and had a cracked seal. The liquor was placed on the hood of my patrol vehicle and then later poured out in front of my dash cam. Subject's nephew showed up on scene and assisted with getting Subject home from the traffic stop. Subject was explained his charges, court date, time and location. BWC was activated and will be uploaded as soon as possible.

Shoplifting: The Complainant contacted dispatch in reference to a shoplifting in progress at the incident location (Food Lion) in the Town Limits of Elgin. She advised there was a white male wearing a red shirt with black shorts putting stuff in a bag. Prior to the reporting officers arrival the complainant advised the Suspect departed in a blue van and went to Auto Zone. As the reporting officer arrived he observed a blue 2012 Dodge Caravan exiting the Auto Zone. It was being driven by a white male matching the description and pulled back into the parking lot of the incident location. A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle, revealing the Suspect to be the driver and sole occupant. He was identified by his South

Carolina Drivers license. He was clear NCIC. When asked about stealing anything he denied it, but stated he did go in with a bag. When asked to see the bag, he grabbed the plastic grocery bag and opened it, revealing a 64 ounce bottle of Food Lion juice blend ($3.51). The juice was cold to the touch. He was detained and contact was made with the Complainant. She advised she observed the Suspect place a bottle of juice into a grocery bag. CCTV footage was reviewed and revealed the same. The bottle of juice was returned to the Complainant. Due to the stolen item only being one thing and of such minor value the Complainant declined prosecution. However, she did wish for the Suspect to be trespassed. He was issued a trespass notice and advised not to return, to which he acknowledged. He was entered into the Trespass Log by the reporting officer. He was released with no charges. The reporting officer's body worn camera was activated.

Peeping Tom: On 05/31/2024,Complainant called 911 after getting a motion alert on his driveway camera and locating a older white male in his back yard. Complainant stated that when he seen the unknown male inside the fenced in back yard he was holding a camera and pointing it into his bedroom window taking pictures or video. Complainant told the unknown male to get off his property and he was calling the Police. At that time the unknown male left the property headed toward Main St. Investigation pending.

Assisting Another Agency: Officer was dispatched to Main St. in reference to a medical call. KC Dispatch advised that a male subject was laying on the side of the road not responding and barely breathing. Myself, Chief Anders, and Inv. Threatt arrived to find the male later identified to be Subject unresponsive with shallow breathing. Bystanders from the salon stated that he was just in getting a haircut and left. They also stated that he had liver failure but did not know of any drug use. Once KCEMS arrived they took over patient care. While speaking to others on scene it was discovered that Subject thought he was buying a pain killer/muscle relaxer from an unknown male but it was discovered to be fentanyl. Subject was treated by KCEMS briefly but refused any further treatment and left the scene.

Elgin's own Jules Lemonds, who currently holds the title of Miss Camden, will be competing next week for the title of Miss South Carolina. The competition, held at the Township Auditorium, begins on June 26th and culminates with the crowning of Miss South Carolina Saturday, June 29th.

Jules has worked tirelessly in our community raising awareness and support for Alzheimer's through her platform, "Forget-MeNot."

Senate District 35

Runo Set for June 25

A runoff is set for SC Senate District 35 as neither of the leading candidates received a majority vote. State law requires 50%+1 to secure a victory, and Republican Mike Jones finished with 50% of the vote, while Democrat Jeffery Graham finished with 47% of the vote.

Jones will face off against Lindsay Agostini in the Republican primary runoff, and Graham will face Austin Floyd.

The runoff is set for June 25th.

The seat became available when Sen. Thomas McElveen announced that he did not plan on running for reelection. District 35 represents Kershaw, Lee, Northeast Richland and Sumter Counties.

Meet Hank Martin of Camden's Second Nature

By: Liz Simon, Staff Writer

Saturday the Wateree Chapter SC27

National Society Colonial Dames hosted Hank Martin, lead singer of Camden’s award-winning beach band Second Nature. He presented a program with a variety of music selections at Proctor Hall.

Hank said, “It's been rewarding sharing a ministry to senior citizens of which I am one. Most of the residents in retirement homes or assisted living are at least my age, but most are older. The songs we sing bring back memories for them. Music is very healing and is the universal language. I know it ministers to others. Most of the places we go to every month seem to enjoy us and want us to come back. They seem to be happy with most songs we sing. The singers that were most popular in their early days are favorites like Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, and the sing-a-longs. My favorite beach song to shag to is “Lady Soul.” A love song I enjoy singing is “Lady.” My favorite hymn is “We're Standing on Holy Ground.”

Hank considers being invited to sing at the Billy Graham crusade and meet Reverend Graham in New Jersey as one of his life's most honored highlights. Martin never misses an opportunity to share his testimony. Martin says his life was changed by God's grace in 1985 when he produced and sang a gospel album called “Thank you, Israel.” He wrote the title song and two other songs on the album with co-writers. He and his wife Linda appeared on the 700 Club on the Christian Broadcasting Network with a reenactment of their personal testimony.

Hank first decided to move his family to Nashville, TN in 1978 where he started writing songs, singing on record sessions as a background singer, producing and singing radio and TV commercials. Jim Ed Brown recorded the ASCAP award-winning song that Hank co -wrote “You're the part of me.” B.J. Thomas, Martin's all-time favorite singer, recorded “He's walking in

my shoes” which Hank co-wrote with Archie Jordan. This song also became a hit.

Hank’s life changed again when he was presented with the opportunity to sing national commercial jingles from television and radio in New York. He moved his family this time to Connecticut and commuted to New York City. Some of the jingles he wrote and sang were AT&T “Reach out and touch someone,” and GE's “We bring good things to life.”

Martin co-wrote and recorded with Buzz Aldridge “South Carolina on my mind” for the South Carolina Department of Tourism in 1984. It became the state song signed into law by then Governor Richard Riley.

In 2015, Hank and his wife Linda celebrated with their three children fifty years of marriage. Less than a month later Linda took her heavenly trip home.

Charles Stafford, Tommy James, Buzz Aldridge and Hank played in the Duprees band in high school in Sumter. A few years after college they got together again and decided to start a band. TJ's longtime drummer friend Tommy Graham was coming back from Vietnam, and they waited a couple of months for him. Archie Jordan, eight years younger auditioned and played the guitar for the band.

Hank remarked, “One evening we knew we needed to come up with a name that would be second nature to people. We can't remember who said it, but we all looked at each other and said, “Wow! Second Nature! Great name! That's the story.”

When Second Nature was inducted into the Beach Club Hall of Fame two years later, Hank reconnected with a high school friend’s sister.

“My wife Beth Gattshall is a soul mate, a friend, and a God send, and for the second time in my life, I have someone who is the wind beneath my wings. I surely hope I'm the same for her. God told me when I knew I was going to marry her that I would be loving a little girl and a beautiful grownup lady inside and out.”

Hank appreciates growing up in a small town. “I don't remember us ever locking doors. The neighbors were friendly. We got by on a whole lot less than we do today. There is a peace I feel when I think about growing up.”

KCSD Announces Three New Assistant Principals

Stephanie Beckley returns to KCSD after serving as an assistant principal at Willow Drive Elementary School in Sumter during the 2023-2024 school year. Prior to this, she taught English at Camden Middle School for three years, and was a first, second, third and fifth grade teacher at Camden Elementary for 21 years. She began her career at Newington Elementary School where she taught for five years. Beckley earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from the College of Charleston and a Masters Degree in Education Administration and Leadership from Columbia College. She completed the KCSD Developing Administrators Program. She is married to Denny Beckley, and they have three children, Devin (25), Davis (19) and Delaney (16).

Jennifer Bonds joined KCSD in 2022 as a kindergarten teacher at Lugoff Elem. Prior to this, she served for eight years as a child development teacher and SOAR Lead Teacher in Richland School District Two. She also previously taught at Bishopville Primary School and Fairfield Elementary School. Bonds earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Carolina, a Masters in Education Degree in Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment from Walden University, and a Master of Education in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University. She completed the KCSD Developing Administrators Program and is a member of Palmetto State Teachers Association. She is married to James Bonds, a Lugoff-Elgin High School graduate, and they have two children, Charlee (7) and Hollen (3).

Detra Simmons joins KCSD from RCSD1 where she served as an assistant principal at Burton Pack Elementary. Before serving as an assistant principal, she taught fifth grade in RCSD2 and Lex2 for ten years, and third grade in Orangeburg County for two years. Simmons earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a Masters degree Educational Leadership from the USC, and a Masters degree in Literacy with a focus in English as a Second Language from Clemson University. She completed the SC Department of Education’s Foundations in School Leadership Program, and is a member of the South Carolina Reading Council, South Carolina Alliance of Black School Administrators, and the Carolina Alumni Association. Simmons is married to Stanley Simmons, and they have two children, Stanley (Tre) and Zoey.

Stephanie Beckley Asst. Principal at Doby's Mill Elementary

Jennifer Bonds Asst. Principal at Lugoff Elementary

Detra Simmons Asst. Principal at Blaney Elementary

Choir Camp 2024

Father's House Ministries International on Sessions Rd. in Elgin was the host church for Choir Camp of SC during the week of June 3 to June 8, 2024. Sixty-nine children in grades prek-8th grade enjoyed Art, Bible, Choir, Gospel Choir, Goal Setting with the Alpha Center, Recreation, Senior Moments, Crafts with Bonnie, Dance, Social Emotional Learning, and Life Lessons with Noah. The Gideons visited on Thursday, and a Cozy Cattle Co (Farm Experience) visited on Wednesday. Students learned about missions, service, and we ATE SO WELL! Homemade fresh-squeezed Lemonade! Smores! Ice Cream Sandwich Sundaes! You name it; we enjoyed it But the highlight of the week came when God stretched food purchased for 30 people to feed 100. WE HAVE OURSELVES A MIRACLE....and there were leftovers for the last of the staff to eat! Many thanks to Chavela's of Elgin for helping with that miracle! We also enjoyed adult/teen lunches from The OUTPOST, Lugoff House of Pizza and Subs, Chic Fil A, and Elgin's Food Lion's Deli. The Summer Food Program from

Watch for our ROYAL PURPLE T-shirts all around Elgin, and thank our sponsors by frequenting

CMS Jr. Beta Club Serves Most Hours in US

The National Beta Club chapter at Camden Middle School has achieved a remarkable feat, earning the prestigious 2024 National Beta Grand Slam Service Award. This accolade recognizes the club's outstanding commitment to serving their school, community, and state, with members averaging an impressive 173.2 hours of service per member this year.

Under the guidance of dedicated sponsors, Dr. Kristy McIntyre and Mr. Tyler Steele, the Junior Beta Club (JBC@CMS) at Camden Middle School has emerged as a beacon of service and leadership. Dr. McIntyre, expressed her pride, stating, "The club encourages all Betas to serve between 15-25 hours each year, however, Camden Middle went impressively beyond this to model for others the impact one can make by donating their time."

The student scholars of JBC@CMS have demonstrated their commitment to service through a variety of initiatives, including creating placemats for nursing homes, making cards for soldiers, participating in litter clean-ups, volunteering at local churches, and organizing drives for essential items such as socks, jeans, and shoes. Their proactive approach to identifying and addressing community needs sets a commendable example for their peers.

Each member of the Camden Middle School Junior Beta Club will receive a commemorative pin from the National Beta Club, honoring their dedication to service. Additionally, the club will be presented with a trophy, proudly displayed in the Jr. Beta Club Trophy case at Camden Middle School.

In addition to their remarkable service achievements, members of JBC@CMS excelled at the Beta Club State Convention held in Myrtle Beach in January. Their accomplishments include: Grand Champion, 7th Grade, Mathematics - Gracie Hall 2nd Place, 8th Grade, Spanish - Kimberly Reynolds 4th Place, 8th Grade, Science - Van Outen 4th Place, 6th Grade, Science - Mills Sanders 5th Place, 8th Grade, English Language Arts 2nd Place in the state of South Carolina for Apparel Design

The Camden Middle School Junior National Beta Club continues to inspire and lead by example, embodying the Beta motto: "Let Us Lead by Serving Others." Their dedication to service and academic excellence exemplifies the spirit of community and achievement.

As many students are graduating and going into summer break, remember to keep our youth safe by preventing underage drinking and talk to them about the risks related to alcohol use.

ATTORNEYS:

Schedule a FREE consultation today.

• Increases risks of developing substance use problems later

• E ects brain development

• Is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to buy, drink, or be in possession of alcohol

• Is illegal to transfer alcohol to anyone under the age of 21

If you are concerned about someone’s substance use/misuse, contact ALPHA Behavioral Health Center online at alphabehavioralhealthcenter.org or call 803-432-6902 to get help.

Kids from across Kershaw County are invited to show their patriotic spirit by decorating their bicycles, human-powered scooters, and wagons and wearing their red, white, and blue for the eighth annual Kids’ Fourth of July Parade, Saturday, June 29, 2024. Festivities begin at Camden City Hall at 10:00 am; the parade will start at 10:30 am.

Pre-parade activities will include community organizations such as the Camden Fire Department, Hobkirk Hill Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Revolutionary War Visitor Center, Historic Camden, and the Camden Junior Welfare League. Grand Marshals of this year’s parade will be local participants in the Palmetto Boys and Girls State. Free snow cones will be available from the Fire Department to all participants, following the parade, behind Books on Broad.

Continued From Page 2

on the existing contract.

A motion to enter Executive Session to discuss a personnel matter was made by Councilman Paul Rizzo at 6:26 pm, 2nd by Councilman Brad Hanley, with a unanimous vote from Council. Attorney John Wells was included in the session.

Wateree River Festival Returns

The Wateree River Festival returns on August 3rd with litter pick up around the Wateree River Veteran's Park, followed by fun and food. Events kick off at 7:30 am with registration, followed by litter pick up from 8 am - 11:30 am. Raffle prizes will be offered for litter pickup participants and food trucks and live music will be at the park after litter pick up.

For more information on this event, visit @watereeriverfestival on Facebook, or palmettopride.org/event/wateree

Food Distribution Every Monday at Elgin Town Hall

The United Way Mobile Pantry will be bringing grocery bags for any Kershaw County resident in need of assistance. Participants will be asked to show a picture ID as proof of residency, and with a brief application, the resident will be eligible for one bag per person every 14 days. Pick up at Elgin Town Hall Mondays from 2-3 pm.

Find The Elgin News on

Photo Contest! Upload your best photo of the parade to the event page at https://www.facebook. com/events/963346055528041 along with the hashtag #kidsparadephotocontest2024. Photos should be submitted no later than 11:59 pm on June 29. A winner will be selected at random and announced on July 2nd!

The parade is sponsored by Books on Broad and Coffee and the Downtown Camden Cultural District. For more information, please contact Laurie Slade Funderburk at laurie@booksonbroad.com or Kat Spadacenta, City of Camden Community Development Coordinator, at kspadacenta@camdensc. org.

The community is invited to watch the 10:30 am parade along Rutledge Street. Parking is available at the Town Green and on Commerce Alley as well as along Market and Broad Streets. For the safety of the participants, motorized vehicles (electric or gas powered) are not allowed, and children 10 and under must be escorted by an adult. Don’t forget to decorate your bicycle, human-powered scooter or skateboard, AND your helmet!

8th Annual Kid's Parade Back-To-School Vaccine Clinic

DHEC is offering a Back-to-School Vaccine Clinic on July 11th!

(Visit www.kcsdschools.net/immunizations to read more about immunization requirements.)

Who: SC students in rising 5K-12th grade who need vaccines for school.

When: Thurs., July 11 from 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM

Where: Kershaw County Health Department, 1116 Church Street, Camden, SC 29020

Details:

• Please bring any/all shot records you have when you come to ease the process.

• Please bring insurance information.

• There will be no charge for vaccines at this clinic.

Kershaw County Health Department hopes to see you there!

A motion to exit Executive Session was made by Councilman Brad Hanley at 7:12 pm, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. Mayor Melissa Emmons stated that there was no need for further action at this time.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Councilman Brad Hanley at 7:13 pm, 2nd by Councilman Paul Rizzo, with a unanimous vote from Council. Our next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, July 2, 2024, at 6:00 pm. I encourage everyone to make an effort to attend our monthly meetings so you can stay informed and find ways to get involved and if you miss a meeting, check out our website at www.townofelginsc.com, where we list agendas, minutes from meetings and the calendar of events. We also livestream the meeting on the Town of Elgin Facebook Page. If I can ever be of assistance, please feel free to contact me by phone at 803-309-1385 or email at Memmons@townofelginsc.com.

I’m your one-stop shop for the service you deserve at a price you want. Call me for surprisingly great rates and Good Neighbor service right in your neighborhood.

MAYOR'S DESK,

Jimmy Jones Announces Run for KC Chairman

Dear Kershaw County Citizens,

You have enthusiastically and overwhelmingly encouraged me to run for the Chairman seat to complete Chairwoman’s Guinn term, and as a councilman for the people, I am excited to answer your call once again! I am officially running for Chairman of Kershaw County Council in the special election primary being held on Tuesday, August 6th.

I have been honored and humbled to serve the citizens of Kershaw County for 18 years on the County Council. In 2022, County Council elected me as your vice-chairman and I have proudly served as your vice-chairman working closely with the former chairwoman for two years.

I will not be diverting my attention from anywhere else in government as my attention has been devoted here locally to the people of Kershaw County for over 18 years. I am a retired Kershaw County employee and retired from South Carolina law enforcement. Public service is all I have ever known, and working for the people is all I have ever done. On the County Council, I have a track record for sticking up for the citizens of Kershaw County. Big government nor politicians have ever intimidated me for sticking up for the people of Kershaw County.

As Vice-Chairman, I am currently serving you as the interim Chairman until the special election. I am running to be your chairman for you. The initiatives and policy changes addressing rapid growth the former chair and I were working on need to be seen through. When you elect me as your Chairman, the citizens of Kershaw County will not miss a beat and have a smooth transition into the future. I’m running because I care about you and your family, I care about stopping the tax increases on the people and small businesses and I care about making sure you keep your hard earned money in your pocket. As Chairman, your front porch will be my office.

I stand for the people. I give the people their

asking for your trust and confidence for two more years as Kershaw County Chairman. Thank you and as always, call me - because I will answer the call.

The Importance of Keeping Our Waters Clean

What is Stormwater?

As you may have guessed, stormwater is any precipitation that falls from the sky during a storm event, including rain, snow, sleet, etc. While some of this water will infiltrate into the ground, much of the water will land on impervious surfaces such as roads, driveways, and parking lots resulting in stormwater runoff. This runoff travels through storm drains and ends up in your local waterways. Any substances the stormwater runoff picks up on its way to the nearest storm drain becomes stormwater pollution! What are possible sources of stormwater pollution?

Pet Waste

When pet waste is not properly disposed of it pollutes waterways in our community, which is not only harmful to the environment, but to people and pets as well. Pet waste can be a source of harmful bacteria, parasites, and excess nutrients, all of which result in significant stormwater pollution and present health risks to humans and other pets. The nutrient overload that occurs in aquatic ecosystems due to pet waste and other nutrient pollution can cause harmful algal blooms that are unsightly and unhealthy for our waterways.

Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

Dumping your leftover fats, oils, and grease (FOG) down the drain can result in sewer or septic issues, even if you run hot water down the sink. When FOG begins to stick to the inside of sewer pipes, blockages can occur, backing up raw sewage into your home, your neighbor’s home, a neighborhood park, or public streets. The overflow can then reach the nearest waterway or storm drain during storm events. FOG can also disrupt proper functioning of septic systems, resulting in similar backups.

Chemical

Chemical pollution can come in a multitude of forms, from cleaning products used to wash your cars, to the over application of fertilizer, herbicide, or pesticide before a rain event. It’s important to check the label of any products used outdoors before application and be aware of where the nearest storm drain is located.

What are the solutions?

Solution: Pet Waste

Being a responsible pet owner means picking up after your pet and disposing of waste where it belongs. Consider these easy options for proper pet waste disposal at home and when taking your pet for walks:

• Tightly seal the waste in a plastic bag. Then simply throw it in the garbage.

• Flush the waste down the toilet. Water treatment facilities can handle human waste and pet waste, too!

• Small quantities of pet waste can be buried in your yard at least 6 inches underground. Just make sure it is away from vegetable gardens and waterways.

• Private companies, such as “DoodyCalls”, may be hired to manage the pet waste in your yard.

Solution: Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG)

Fats, oils, and grease can be saved for future use or disposed of in the trash in a secured container with a lid to avoid any leakage. Also, the 10 Kershaw County Convenience Centers accept used cooking oil. To find the Convenience Center nearest you, visit http://tinyurl/KC-SolidWaste or call (803) 425-1507.

Solution: Chemical

When washing vehicles or equipment, make sure to use biodegradable soap and never wash on impervious surfaces, like driveways. It’s best to use cleaning products on a grassed surface where runoff will not reach the nearest storm drain. When using lawn products, such as fertilizer, herbicide, or pesticide, the label is the law and should be thoroughly read prior to application.

As a reminder, citizens can report illegal dumping or discharges by completing the Illicit Discharge Reporting Form at: www.cognitoforms.com/TownOfElginSC/TownOfElginIllicitDischarge ReportingForm

voice. Kershaw County, I am

Above: Jimmy Jones announces run for KC Chairman position after resignation of Chairwoman Katie Guinn.

KCSO Aims for National Accreditation

Your KCSO would like to announce the promotion of Master Deputy Misty Burroughs to the rank of Accreditation Management Corporal. She will leave her former assignment as School Resource Officer (SRO) at Lugoff Elementary School. In her new position, she will lead your KCSO to national law enforcement accreditation.

Your KCSO received South Carolina Law Enforcement Accreditation (SCLEA) on December 1, 2023 for the first time in the history of the Kershaw County Sheriff ’s Office. It is now our goal to achieve national accreditation and become a dual accredited agency for the first time in KCSO history. Corporal Burroughs came to your KCSO with prior experience in law enforcement accreditation. She was chosen for this position due to her hard work and selfless dedication to your KCSO.

Our national accreditation will go through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). More information on CALEA can be found on their website: calea.org. The Law Enforcement Accreditation process focuses on standards that provide best practices related to life, health, and safety procedures for the agency. These standards are considered foundational for contemporary law enforcement agencies. The program provides the framework for addressing high-risk issues within a contemporary environment and ensures officers are prepared to meet basic community service expectations and prepared to manage critical events. Accreditation embodies the precepts of community-oriented policing. It creates a forum in which law enforcement agencies and citizens work together to prevent and control challenges confronting law enforcement and provides clear direction about community expectations. Accreditation provides objective evidence of an agency’s commitment to excellence in leadership, resource management, and service-delivery. Thus, government officials are more confident in the agency’s ability to operate efficiently and meet community needs.

James Honored By Kershaw County Council

Burroughs (right) was named Accreditation Management Corporal as KCSO embarks upon a journey to become a nationally accredited law enforcement agency.

Dennis N. Cannon, Jr.

Arien Cannon