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Kingstree council tables decision on 3.25-acre parcel offered by Williamsburg Historical Society
Summary
The Williamsburg Historical Society offered to sell a 3.25-acre parcel adjacent to the town recreation center for $480,000 payable in three installments; Councilman Hammet recused, a motion to decline failed for lack of a second, and the council voted to table the offer and schedule a special meeting in two weeks for further research.
Helen McFadden, speaking for the Williamsburg Historical Society, told the council the Society and three co-owning charities received an appraisal valuing a 3.25-acre frontage parcel on Nelson Boulevard at $480,000 and said the owners must sell at appraised value. She said the tract includes the grassy area between the tennis courts and Nelson Boulevard, portions of driveway, and electrical boxes installed by the town for events.
Councilwoman Michelle Butterworth raised concerns that the appraisal did not account for years the Town spent maintaining the land. "The Town has done the upkeep and maintenance of the property," Butterworth said, arguing that maintenance and public use should be weighed in sale negotiations.
Wendell Voizell told the council that the co-owning charities face funding losses and said converting the parcel to proceeds could support the Historical Society's operations and other donated properties it is trying to maintain.
Because he is a member of the Williamsburg Historical Society, Councilman C.M. (Bubba) Hammet recused himself from the property discussion and vote. Councilman Derek Fitts moved to decline the offer to purchase; the motion failed for lack of a second. Councilman Frankie D. White then moved to table the offer for further research and to schedule a special called meeting in two weeks; Councilman Chris Williams seconded, and the motion carried (Hammet was recused from participation on the item).
The appraisal amount, proposed payment schedule (three installments) and the requirement for co-owner consent were presented by the Society; the council did not vote to authorize any purchase or to commit funds at the Nov. 17 meeting. The special called meeting was scheduled to allow staff and council to research funding sources, valuation questions, and legal issues before any final decision.
Next steps identified at the meeting included staff research on whether maintenance performed by the Town affects valuation or possible credit, confirmation of the co-owners' consents, and further budget analysis if the council proceeds to consider purchase authorization.
