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Loris council authorizes RFP for replacement knuckleboom loader and receives updates on flood mitigation, parks and fire department award
Summary
The council authorized a 15-day request-for-proposals for a replacement knuckleboom loader after ongoing equipment issues, and heard briefings about a flood mitigation grant application for Pleasant Meadow Branches, an approved grant for Watson Park (~$40,000), and that the Loris Volunteer Fire Department received the 2025 Fire Safe South Carolina designation and a new skid unit.
At its April 6 meeting, the Loris City Council authorized city staff to solicit proposals for a replacement knuckleboom loader truck used for leaf and limb pickup after members raised repeated equipment problems.
Mayor Michael E. Suggs outlined maintenance issues with the existing knuckleboom unit. Administrator Angel R. Neighbours has researched replacement options; Attorney John C. Zilinsky suggested posting a 15-day notice on the city’s website to solicit other proposals. Councilman Carroll D. Padgett Jr. moved and Councilwoman Kelli D. Gerald seconded the motion; the council voted unanimously to authorize Administrator Neighbours and Attorney Zilinsky to proceed with a request for proposals.
During department reports, Planning & Zoning Director Meredith Holmes said the county returned comments on the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan; Holmes and Administrator Neighbours briefed the council on a Flood Mitigation Grant application to fund drainage improvements in the upper Pleasant Meadow Branches. Holmes said engineers previously studied needed drainage work in 1991 and 1999 and that the grant project would be completed in three phases if approved. Administrator Neighbours told the council that engineering costs could be used as the city’s match, while the grant would cover materials and construction.
Administrator Neighbours also reported that a "pard" grant for Watson Park has been approved; quotes are being solicited to replace playground equipment and basketball goals, with total project costs estimated at approximately $40,000 and quotes expected by the end of April.
Fire Marshal Robert Rudelitch told the council the Loris Volunteer Fire Department received the 2025 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation; an official award presentation will be held in June. Rudelitch also reported the department received a U.S. Department of the Interior-funded skid unit for Brush 425 on March 31, 2026.
There were no public comments or press in attendance. The council entered executive session at 6:23 p.m. to discuss one contractual matter and reconvened at 6:35 p.m.; Mayor Suggs said the council received an update but took no action in executive session. The meeting adjourned at 6:37 p.m.
