By: Jeremy Handel, Staff Writer
jeremy@thewoodrufftimes.com
The Woodruff City Council approved the first reading of a proposed $5.3 million budget for the 2023-2024 fiscal year and passed a resolution to support the renewal of a penny sales tax in Spartanburg County to fund road repairs and improvements at its May 30 meeting.
City Manager Lee Bailey presented the initial introduction of the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year, which includes equipment and vehicle purchases and a three percent cost-of-living increase for all employees. No tax increases are proposed in the budget. Bailey told the council that the new Christmas activities, including the carriage rides and McKinney Park lighting ceremony, have been included in the proposed budget.
In another vote, the Council unanimously passed a resolution to support Spartanburg County’s proposal to renew a penny sales tax to be used for road repairs and upgrades. Bailey explained that the sales tax that had been passed for the construction of the new county courthouse and the municipal building is expiring, and the County is proposing a renewal to use for roads. The Council’s resolution shows the city’s support and interest in participating in the repairs if the issue is passed by voters. A referendum to renew the tax will be on the ballot in November.
In other action, the Council passed the first reading of several planning and zoning issues, including a request to amend the zoning codes to implement a minimum distance of 3,000 feet between gas stations and automotive businesses in the downtown area. They also approved the first reading of a request to annex and zone the property where the new high school is being constructed.
In the city manager’s report, Bailey told the council that the sewer extension work along Highway 101, which will provide service to several new developments, is nearly complete. He also highlighted the June 30 concert in the park event that will feature the city’s first fireworks show leading up to Independence Day.
The Woodruff City Council meets on the last Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at Woodruff City Hall. The meetings are open to the public, and the next meeting will be held on Tuesday, July 25.
Author: Tracy Sanders
