Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
Councilman Daniel Alexander led the Pledge of Allegiance alongside his daughters, Mary Chilton and Margaret.
Audra Brown was recognized by Barnwell County Council for her work in the Assessor’s Office for 32 years.
Sgt. Donald Danner (right) was recognized for over 30 years of service to the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office.
Gregory Gantt (right) was recognized for 27 years of service to the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office.
Barnwell County Council is beginning the process of including a one percent capital projects sales tax referendum on the 2024 general election ballot.
A capital sales tax allows the county council to impose a one percent sales and use tax by ordinance, subject to a referendum, for a specific project or projects for a limited period of time.
“As part of the initial start up to this process, we need to create a capital project sales tax commission,” said Councilman Daniel Alexander.
This commission will have six members; three will be appointed by the county, two from the City of Barnwell, and one from either Blackville or Williston based on state regulations. Those appointed by a municipality must also be a resident of that municipality.
The county has since sent letters to each municipality to alert them of this commission and their duty of appointment.
The commission will consider proposals for funding capital projects, formulate a referendum question to appear on the ballot, and submit the proposed question to the County Council with enough time for them to approve it.
This is similar to the last capital project sales tax from 2017 which passed to fund capital projects such as building and road construction and improvement.
The county attempted a one percent capital project sales tax in 2014, however, it was struck down by voters.
Recognizing retirees
Four now retired individuals were recognized for their service to Barnwell County at the council’s December 12 meeting.
Audra Brown has served as the appraiser for the Barnwell County Assessor's Office from September 1991 until September 2023. A resolution of recognition was presented to her at the meeting by Chairman Jerry Creech and council members.
Sergeant Donald Danner, a school resource officer and D.A.R.E officer, retired from the Barnwell County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) after 27 years with the agency. He started his career in BCSO in February 1996.
“Thank you for this resolution. It is only the grace of God that he has allowed me to live this long to be able to receive this honor, and because of your thoughtfulness, I am grateful,” said Sgt. Danner at the meeting.
Sergeant Gregory Gantt began serving with the BCSO in October 1996. Gantt, a school resource officer for Barnwell High School, retired in September 2023 after 27 years.
Although not present at the council meeting, a resolution was passed in honor of the 26 years Corporal Arthur Hiers dedicated to BCSO.
2024 Meeting Dates
The Barnwell County Council will meet on the following dates in 2024: January 9, February 13, March 12, April 9, May 14, June 11, July 9, August 12, September 10, October 8, November 12, and December 10.
