Kingstree council tables purchase of 3.25-acre parcel from Williamsburg Historical Society after price and access-road concerns

The Kingstree Town Council tabled consideration of a proposed $180,000 purchase of 3.25 acres from the Williamsburg Historical Society after members voiced concerns that most of the parcel’s practical value to the town is a 60-foot access road.

Town Manager Kippton W. Coker said council had remaining questions following legal advice and asked the historical society and related non-profits to consider selling the access road separately, including the paved portion the town currently uses. Council members also asked the society to consider renewing the existing lease instead of the sale or to reconsider the fixed sales price.

Councilwoman Michelle Butterworth questioned the price, saying $180,000 was high to justify acquisition “for essentially a road” used by the town. Councilman Stan Williamson noted the parcel had limited use (it was used once annually when the Recreation Department hosted the Pig Pickin event). Councilman C.M. (Bubba) Hammet recused himself from the matter because he is a member of the Williamsburg Historical Society.

Mrs. Helen McFadden of the Williamsburg Historical Society told council she would take the requests back to the organization’s board. When asked whether the town could be denied continued access if the society chose not to sell the access road, Mrs. McFadden replied, “possibly.” Councilman Frankie D. White moved to table the discussion to allow the society time to respond; Councilman Stan Williamson seconded the motion and it carried unanimously.

The council previously met in executive session to receive legal advice on the proposed purchase; minutes record that no action was taken in executive session. The matter will return to council for further consideration after the Williamsburg Historical Society responds to the town’s requests.