Spartanburg City Council approves $90k for job training and awards banking contract to TD Bank

Spartanburg City Council made significant strides in community development and financial management during its meeting on June 23, 2025. A key highlight was the approval of a $90,000 funding allocation aimed at enhancing job training and workforce development programs in collaboration with local organizations.

The council discussed leveraging this funding with an additional $300,000 from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds, totaling $360,000 over the next four years dedicated to job training initiatives. This strategic move aims to bolster local employment opportunities and support residents in gaining essential skills for the workforce. Council members emphasized the importance of these programs in addressing community needs and enhancing the local economy.

In addition to workforce development, the council addressed housing assistance through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. They confirmed that previous recipients of assistance could apply again, albeit with a cap of $30,000 for repairs, which includes a focus on critical home improvements like roofing and HVAC systems. This initiative is part of the broader "Christmas in Action" program, which aims to assist low-income families with necessary home repairs while navigating regulations related to lead-based paint.

On the financial front, the council approved a new banking contract with TD Bank, marking a shift from their long-standing relationship with Wells Fargo. Finance Director Dennis Locke presented the recommendation, highlighting TD Bank's competitive fixed costs and superior service offerings, including fraud protection and advanced technology for municipal banking. The new five-year contract, which includes two one-year options, is expected to provide better value and security for the city's financial transactions.

These decisions reflect Spartanburg's commitment to enhancing community welfare through targeted funding and efficient financial management, setting the stage for future growth and development.