Speaker numbers apply only to this recording. Names come from transcript evidence. “Possibly” marks uncertain attribution.
The Charleston City Council convened on October 13, 2026, for a regular meeting that included proclamations, public comments, appointments, a presentation on the Gilyard Center, and approval of several consent and committee items. The meeting began with roll call and an invocation, followed by two proclamations. The majority of public comments centered on opposition to the city's First Amendment demonstration ordinance, while other topics included budget requests, the Dominion Energy franchise agreement, and park planning. Council approved appointments, police agreements, and multiple bills without dissent.
Yes, sir. All right, everybody, I'd like to call this October 13th meeting of City Council to order. Madam Clerk, would you please call the roll? Councilmember Greg, Councilmember Sheeling. Here, Councilmember McBride, Councilmember Popay. Here, Councilmember Brady, President, Councilmember Di Alessandro, Councilmember Waring, Councilmember Seekings, Councilmember Tinkler, Councilmember Balden, Councilmember Appel, Councilmember Scardon, Mayor Cogswell. Here. I'd now like to ask Councilmember Bowden to give the invocation and lead everybody in the pledge of allegiance. As we gather this evening to conduct the business of our city, let us take a moment to reflect on the responsibilities entrusted to us and the community we are privileged to serve. We keep in our thoughts and prayers, those affected by recent storms and flooding, and we express our gratitude to the first responders, public safety personnel, and city employees who work to keep our neighbors safe. Grant us the wisdom to make thoughtful decisions, the humility to put the needs of others before our own, and the courage to do what is right even when it's difficult. Help us to listen with open minds to disagree without division and to remember that our shared commitment to Charleston is greater than any difference of opinion. Mayor work tonight, honor the trust placed in us, and help build a stronger, safer, and more passionate city for generations to come. Pledge allegiance the United States of America in general for which it stands one nation under God in indivisible with liberty. All right, we have two uh present recognitions tonight or proclamations. Uh one for Father 360 and another for uh planning month. So I'd like to ask uh Wallace Evans and Dr. Lawrence Ford to join me up here on the dias. Sir Lawrence Ford. Very good to see you. And there's actually uh uh Jay Raddery, one of our board members here in Charleston. Okay, Mr. Evans could not make you. That's all right. Very good to see you. Appreciate you coming. Thanks for having me. Absolutely. Okay, whereas fathers serve as foundational architects in forging strong and resilient families, providing unwavering love, steadfast guidance, and consistent support that shape the character of their children and strengthen the fabric of our communities. And whereas the influence of engaged fathers on their children's development is profound as they impart core values, build emotional resilience, and equip young people to thrive socially, academically, and in life. And whereas Father 360, a program of the South Carolina Center for Fathers and Families, has served more than 35,000 fathers since the center's founding in 2002, equipping men with the tools, support, and resources needed to become strong, engaged fathers and build a healthier families. And whereas through strong partnerships with government agencies, community organizations, and private supporters, Father 365 continues to expand its reach and impact, offering a proven model of fatherhood programming that communities across the nation can adapt and implement. And whereas when fathers are equipped and supported to take an active role in their families, children flourish, households gain stability, and entire communities benefit. And whereas recognizing and encouraging the vital work of forging strong fathers and families, strengthen strengthens the foundation of our society and invests in the well-being of the next generation. Now, therefore, I, William S. Cogswell Jr., mayor of the city of Charleston, to hereby proclaim October 2026 as Father 365 Pledge Month in the city of Charleston and encourage all residents to honor the fathers and father figures in their lives, support programs that equip men to lead with strength and integrity and actively participate in forging resilient families that will sustain our community for generations to come. Give them a round of applause. I don't want to spread the plane to you, but uh I'll cover a little bit.