Midyear financials show expected seasonality; council pushes for stricter road standards on new developments

Finance Director Stevens told the council the General Fund posted $4.4 million in revenue for the first six months (about 42.72% of the annual budget), a transfer of $108,000 from a Local Option account was used to buy police body and car cameras, and the city currently shows a typical seasonal deficit of about $423,000 at six months. Stevens said utility funds are slightly ahead of budget, leaving a positive Utility Fund balance of about $753,000.

During council reports, Councilmember Kuykendall said he was concerned about the quality of roads in new developments, saying he observes roads at Clinton Commons already "buckling up." City Manager Meadors said the City must be approached by developers before taking roads into inventory and said the Planning Commission is considering stricter standards that would require third-party engineer testing to SCDOT specifications and a three-year bond to cover defects until the City accepts the roads.

Separately, Councilmember Williams raised questions about two houses at Centennial and South Livingston: one was inspected and deemed inhabitable; the other awaiting inspection. She also asked for signage to prevent tractor-trailers from using South Livingston Street on weekends when trucks cannot turn at the end of the road. Meadors said staff would investigate signage and inspection timing, and that the Recreation Complex is nearing completion pending fencing and paving.

The council did not take formal budget votes at the meeting; Stevens offered to meet with council members individually for questions.