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Residents express opposition to Rembert gymnasium plan; councilors respond to education and recreation concerns
Summary
During public comment, residents urged the county to address recreation gaps and raised concerns about a planned Rembert gymnasium project and Sumter School District's low state ranking; council members offered clarifications, welcomed partners for rural projects, and noted liability concerns for school facility use.
Several members of the public addressed Sumter County Council Jan. 28 during the public comment period, raising local recreation and education concerns and announcing a community event.
Jackie Hughes invited council and residents to an American Legion Post 15 event recognizing County Employees of the Year scheduled for Feb. 3, 2025. Louis Watkins spoke in opposition to the Rembert gymnasium project. Eugene Baten expressed concern that the Sumter School District ranks No. 69 of 72 South Carolina counties.
Councilman Carlton B. Washington responded to Mr. Watkins by clarifying that a business is not funding the gymnasium construction and said he welcomed community and corporate partners to help provide solutions for rural Sumter County residents. Chairman James T. McCain and Councilwoman Vivian Fleming McGhaney also expressed support for addressing the matter; McGhaney noted local organizations use school gymnasiums for public events and youth activities. Councilman Artie Baker cautioned about liability for the school district when opening facilities to the public but voiced support for rural gymnasium projects.
No formal action was taken; council adjourned at 6:29 PM.
