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Council advances first reading on plan to allow future councilmembers access to city health benefits
Summary
On first reading Ordinance 2024-12 — which would classify future council members as eligible city employees for health benefits effective Jan. 1, 2026 — passed 3–2. Councilors debated whether the city would pay premiums, potential amendments to require member contribution, and whether the change could bind future councils.
The Walhalla City Council voted on first reading to advance an ordinance that would allow future council members to be eligible for city health benefits through the state program.
The ordinance (2024-12) as read would classify future council members as eligible city employees and make them eligible for the same health benefits as other city employees, with an effective date of Jan. 1, 2026.
Council debate focused on whether making council members eligible implies the city will pay premiums or whether a future member could elect to pay their own share. Several councilors recommended amending the ordinance to specify a member cost-share (for example a 20% employee contribution) to avoid obligating future councils to absorb full premium costs. One councilor noted that current council salaries are zero and argued that as drafted the ordinance would have no immediate fiscal impact but could create future expectations.
Miss Melendez said the change is not unusual and pointed to other municipalities in South Carolina that offer comparable access. After discussion the council recorded a first-reading vote and the motion passed 3–2; the ordinance will come back for second reading where modifications can be considered.
Council requested staff research options for specifying a member premium share and return at second reading with suggested language and fiscal impact analysis.
