Public Meetings - Spartanburg, South Carolina

On November 3, 2026, Jess Tedeo, Marketing Manager, and Osha Spearman, Environmental Enforcement Inspector, hosted an informational video titled "Talking Trash with Jess" to educate residents on proper use of city roll carts for trash and recycling. Discussion Items - Cart Colors: The gray cart is for household trash only; the blue cart is for recyclables. Recyclables exclude glass and Styrofoam. A full list of acceptable recyclables is available on the city website. - Best Practices for Curbside Placement: Residents should place carts at the curb the day before service and retrieve them no later than the day after pickup before sunrise. Trash must be bagged; recyclables should be loose and rinsed clean. - Prohibited Items: The city does not accept TVs, other electronics, computer screens, or tires. - Spacing Guidelines: Carts should be at least three feet apart, and not too close to mailboxes, cars, fire hydrants, or other objects to avoid damage during pickup. - Bulk Items (e.g., furniture, appliances): Residents can place bulk items out the day before service; the collection crew will document them and schedule a separate pickup. Alternatively, residents can fill out an online form or call to arrange pickup. - Overflow and Party Waste: For overflow trash or recyclables, residents can use Spartan County Recycling Centers or purchase additional carts via phone (864-596-3690) at a charge. Key Outcomes - The video provided clear guidelines to help residents comply with city waste management rules and avoid service issues. - Residents were directed to the city website or phone number (864-596-3690) for further questions, comments, or concerns. - No formal decisions or votes were recorded; this was an educational outreach session.

The City Council of Spartanburg, South Carolina, held its regular meeting on October 26, 2026. The meeting began with a moment of silence for former council member and state representative Sterling Anderson. The Council approved the minutes of the October 12, 2026 meeting and the agenda for the current meeting. Key actions included a proclamation for Red Ribbon Week, approval of an honorary street name for Kitty Black Perkins, a settlement agreement regarding the Robert Smalls Apartments and Norris Ridge site, a property exchange for Morgan Square, a bid award for stream stabilization, and first reading of a bond ordinance for downtown revitalization. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes for the October 12, 2026 City Council meeting. - Approval of the agenda for the October 26, 2026 City Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Cassandra Purvis presented a proclamation for Red Ribbon Week (Celebrate Life, Live Drug-Free) on behalf of the Upstate Young Marines. The proclamation designated October 23–31, 2026 as Red Ribbon Week in Spartanburg. The Council adopted the proclamation. Discussion Items - Honorary Street Name for Kitty Black Perkins (Resolution 2026-013): Council Member Janie Sally presented a resolution to install honorary street signs reading "Kitty Black Perkins Boulevard" on each end of Beacon Street. Ms. Perkins, a Spartanburg native who designed the first Black Barbie doll, was present. The resolution passed unanimously. - Amended Agreement with Equity Plus LLC (Robert Smalls Apartments & Norris Ridge): City Manager Chris Story presented a negotiated agreement to address long-standing issues at Robert Smalls Apartments (defective HVAC systems) and the abandoned Norris Ridge site. The agreement requires Equity Plus to deposit $1.75 million into a control account within 15 calendar days. Funds will be used for repairs at Robert Smalls and site preparation at Norris Ridge. The city retains sign-off on all expenditures and has a one-year option to purchase Norris Ridge for $1.8 million. If the deposit is not made timely, the agreement is void. Council members expressed concerns about Equity Plus’s track record but recognized this as "the best of a bad situation." The resolution was adopted with an amendment clarifying that failure to fund within 15 days voids the agreement. - Property Exchange for Morgan Square: A resolution authorizing a land swap with the owner of 1 Morgan Square to reconfigure the northern boundary of Morgan Square and Dunbar Street. No money exchanged. Approved unanimously. - Greenville Branch Stream Stabilization Project (Bid Award): Public Works Director Jay Squires presented the low, responsive bid from Crescent Industries ($1,506,202) for stream bank stabilization from West Main to Henry Street. The project includes native plantings and riprap, will take about 180 days, and is funded by a Rural Infrastructure Authority grant. The award was approved. - Special Obligation Bond for Morgan Square (Ordinance, First Reading): City Manager Story introduced an ordinance to issue up to $19.75 million in special obligation bonds backed by hospitality tax revenues. The actual project cost is estimated at $18.2 million. The bonds would be paid from hospitality tax revenue that is being freed up as older bonds expire. Staff emphasized that no current programs would be cut. The first reading was approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Proclamation adopted for Red Ribbon Week (October 23–31, 2026). - Honorary street name resolution passed (Kitty Black Perkins Boulevard). - Amended agreement with Equity Plus LLC approved, including a $1.75 million deposit within 15 days for repairs at Robert Smalls Apartments and securing of Norris Ridge; city has a one-year purchase option for Norris Ridge at $1.8 million. - Property exchange for Morgan Square approved. - Bid awarded to Crescent Industries ($1,506,202) for Greenville Branch stream stabilization. - First reading of the Morgan Square bond ordinance (up to $19.75 million) approved; final reading and issuance expected in early 2027. - Staff announced the inaugural "Battle of the Badges" softball game (Police vs. Fire) on November 7, 2026, at Fifth Third Park, with donations benefiting the Children’s Advocacy Center and the SC Burn Children’s Fund. - The Council paid tribute to the late Sterling Anderson, former council member and state representative. Staff Reports - Lieutenant McClure presented details of the "Battle of the Badges" softball classic on November 7, 2026. The event includes a home run derby at 12:30 PM and the game at 1:30 PM. Admission is a $10 donation or five canned food items. Proceeds benefit charity. - City Manager Story noted that the Code Spartanburg process will continue with meetings on November 9 and 10 at the County Foundation Center for Philanthropy. - Upcoming homeownership informational sessions (November 3–5) were announced. Council Member Remarks - Council members shared condolences for Sterling Anderson, with many recounting his service and impact. - Council members encouraged early voting (last day October 31) and safe Halloween celebrations. - Several members highlighted community events and thanked staff. Closed Session - A motion was made and approved to enter executive session (Item 13). No further details were shared.

The City of Spartanburg, in partnership with a consulting team led by TSW (including Code Studio, market analyst Erin Arnett, zoning attorney Andy Gowder, and Innerborough for community engagement), held a community workshop on the evening of October 14, 2026 to launch the "Code Spartanburg" process. The meeting marked the beginning of a 14-month effort to rewrite the city's zoning code. The consulting team presented preliminary diagnostic findings and requested community feedback to guide the drafting of a new code. Discussion Items Project Kickoff and Zoning 101 (Caleb Rosico & Christy Dotson) - Caleb Rosico, project manager for TSW, introduced the consulting team and outlined the 14-month timeline: Diagnosis, Framework, Drafting, and Adoption. He emphasized the team's commitment to writing a code uniquely tailored to Spartanburg's character via an open and inclusive process, stating that community help is "absolutely fundamental to getting this code done and getting this code done directly." - Christy Dotson of Code Studio provided a "Zoning 101" overview, explaining how zoning regulations shape physical outcomes (building mass, frontage, landscaping) and control uses and processes. She highlighted the current gap between the community's policy vision (e.g., from the comprehensive plan) and the existing regulations, noting that older zoning can create friction and unpredictable outcomes, and that the current code is "for a different era of Spartanburg." Preliminary Diagnostic Findings and Seven Themes (Caleb Rosico) Rosico detailed the team's preliminary analysis, organized around seven themes. He emphasized these were observations and potential concepts to determine community interest, not formal recommendations: 1. Expanding Housing Supply: The current code effectively protects single-family neighborhoods but lacks tools for "missing middle" housing (duplexes, accessory dwelling units, cottage courts, walk-ups). Rosico proposed legalizing these types in some locations and defining currently undefined uses like short-term rentals. 2. Directing Where Growth Occurs: The comprehensive plan envisions directing growth to corridors while preserving neighborhoods. The team suggested creating an industrial mixed-use zoning district and form-based standards for corridors to better align the zoning map with the plan. 3. Creating Walkable Places: Sidewalk requirements are inconsistent, and the parking regulations were characterized by Rosico as "the longest I have ever seen" and "very outdated." Potential improvements included consistent pedestrian access standards, parking reform, and connectivity requirements. 4. Preserving Character While Managing Change: Many older neighborhoods are technically non-conforming under the current code due to lot sizes and setbacks. The team proposed place-based zoning standards that measure and reflect existing physical patterns (e.g., roof pitch, front porches) and tools to encourage preservation outside historic districts. 5. Supporting Economic Opportunity: The use table is antiquated. Rosico suggested modernizing it to explicitly handle emerging uses (data centers, short-term rentals, artisanal manufacturing) and creating a neighborhood commercial standard for smaller-scale businesses. 6. Promoting Healthy and Resilient Development: Recommendations included revising open space standards (tying them to lot size rather than dwelling units), improving stormwater facility design standards, and extending tree ordinance requirements to single-family teardowns. 7. Creating a User-Friendly Code: The team committed to reformatting the code with graphics, charts, and hyperlinks to replace dense text, making it accessible to non-experts. Key Outcomes - No Formal Votes: This workshop was strictly an information and input-gathering session; no votes or binding decisions were made. - Community Input as Primary Outcome: The main outcome was the collection of stakeholder feedback through breakout exercises and comment cards. The consultant team explicitly stated that the seven themes and specific ideas were preliminary observations and that future recommendations will depend on the community interest expressed. - Timeline: The process remains on track for code adoption in late 2027, following the next phases of framework development and drafting.

The City Council of Spartanburg met on October 12, 2026, to handle routine approvals, hear public comments, recognize graduates and special observances, award the 2026 street resurfacing contract, accept a small property donation, and review a proposed redesign of Morgan Square. The meeting ended with a vote to enter executive session. Consent Calendar - The council approved the minutes of the September 28, 2026, City Council meeting. - The council approved the agenda for the October 12, 2026, meeting. - Mayor Jerome Rice Jr. noted Councilwoman Leslie Rogers was absent on business. Public Comments & Testimony - Antonio Tanner thanked the council for the earlier hate crime proclamation and noted that October 13, 2026, would mark one year since the city passed the hate intimidation ordinance. He also recognized October as hate crime awareness month and told the council that his mentor Michael Mowden, who helped draft the ordinance, passed away that morning. - John Haig, a retired engineer, said the only viable transportation option from Spartanburg to Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP) is Uber and that a ride costs $75, or about $4 per mile. He cited $62,500 in Uber revenue to GSP during May, and the airport's $96 million parking garage, and argued that the city should pursue some form of airport transportation, possibly with federal funds. Recognitions and Proclamations - Kathy Hill presented the 2026 Citizen Academy graduating class of 24, bringing the total number of graduates to 238 since the program began in 2017. - The council proclaimed October 15, 2026, as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day in Spartanburg and encouraged residents to light candles at 7 p.m. as part of the Wave of Light. - The council proclaimed Citizen Scholar Institute Day in Spartanburg in honor of the organization's 30th anniversary; it was founded in 1996. - The mayor also noted that pre-meeting proclamations recognized hate crime awareness and international teachers. Resolutions and Bid Awards - Resolution on industrial/business park properties: City Manager Chris Storr said a resolution consenting to the placement of certain properties in the city's joint industrial and business park with Cherokee County was a housekeeping step tied to a previously approved development agreement with Barrett Realty Investments. The mixed-use project at Broad and Spring Streets — reported in the media as Project Rap and now commercially known as the Wheelhouse — includes retail, restaurant, and apartment space and will wrap the garage under construction. Blue Moon remains part of the project. The council adopted the resolution. - 2026 street resurfacing bid: Public Works Director Jay Squires reported that four bids were received and Rogers Group was the responsive low bidder at $1,578,389.02. The 60-day project is expected to begin at the end of October and be completed by November 30, using penny sales tax and CTC funds. Staff plan to give residents door hangers about 48 hours before work begins. The council awarded the bid. - Highland Avenue property acceptance: Fredelin Frazier asked the council to accept a sliver of land of about one-twentieth of an acre from Henson and Kapasi at the rear of their property on Highland Avenue. The city plans to use it as right-of-way to create a landscaped buffer and community enhancement along the West Main/Highland Avenue corridor. The council accepted the property. Morgan Square Presentation and Discussion - City Manager Chris Storr presented the proposed Morgan Square redesign for discussion only, with no vote requested. He said the earliest vote would be at the October 26, 2026, council meeting. - Storr described the public engagement history: more than 3,400 survey responses in 2021, a business and community leaders committee in 2022, roughly 260 participants in 2023 workshops including 12 mobile workshops, and an arborist assessment of square trees in 2023. - The public's six priorities, he said, were more green and shade, live music and events, pedestrian-first streets, vibrant edges with outdoor dining, a water element, and public restrooms. - A previous design concept had been paused in early 2025 because of concerns and construction impacts on downtown businesses. One Spartanburg, the city's development partner, was asked to take an independent fresh look, leading to the new concept presented by landscape architect Thomas Baker of Michael Vergason Landscape Architects. - The concept would realign Dunbar Street to enlarge the square's active footprint by about 30 percent, creating roughly 32,000 square feet of flexible civic space. The plan includes a pedestrian-first block between Spring and Magnolia/Wall streets, a large lawn, a central square and tree grove, two water features, a possible stage, granite and brick materials, preserved willow oaks along Main Street, and an increase in shade trees from 54 to 79, about a 40 percent increase. - Storr said the realignment would involve a property-line exchange with One Morgan Square with no monetary exchange. On a typical day vehicle movements would not change, but the Spring-to-Magnolia/Wall block would be resurfaced as a pedestrian-first zone that could be closed with bollards for large events. - The plan also includes potential vehicle drop-off points, including one on Church Street; a leased space on the square for public restrooms and downtown staff; and possible SCDOT-initially-concurred pedestrian islands in unused Church Street turn lanes. - Estimated total project cost is about $18.2 million, primarily funded through an anticipated hospitality tax bond. Storr said there is no proposed tax increase and no cuts to other city programs. - The construction timeline could include an eight-week winter project along Main Street storefronts, a five-month vehicle closure to rework the Main/Wall/Magnolia-to-Spring intersection area, and a 12-month process for the central square. The target is an early 2027 start and completion in the spring of the following year. More information was made available at MorganSquare.com. - Council reactions were broadly supportive. Council member Eric asked that accessible handicap parking near the west end be considered for people with mobility issues who still drive. Several council members praised the design, with Mayor Pro Tem saying it would be better than Sundance, and council members emphasized keeping Main Street businesses accessible during construction. Staff Updates - City Manager Chris Storr announced that the city had received another $2.1 million in HUD funds for lead-based paint mitigation in older housing stock, targeting limited-income or fixed-income residents. - In response to questions, Storr said the park clock tower project is still in design with no final budget or timeline, and that sourcing steel for smaller projects is being evaluated. - Storr also said construction of the joint government center and parking garage on Broad Street is moving on schedule, but he did not give an opening date because life-safety systems, power supply, and usable entrances and exits must be completed first. Council Updates - Council members encouraged participation in Code Spartanburg, the city's zoning ordinance update, noting that themes from kickoff events are available online. - A council member said poll workers are still about 100 people short for the upcoming election and urged residents to sign up; training is about three hours and the workday about 13 hours. - Other updates included the International Festival, National Night Out, the fire department open house, the 90th Shrine Bowl in December, Miles with the Mayor on October 24 at 8 a.m. at the Converse campus, and the countywide Walk and Roll event on October 21 at 9 a.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the September 28, 2026, meeting minutes and the October 12, 2026, agenda. - Adopted the resolution related to properties in the city's joint industrial and business park with Cherokee County. - Awarded the 2026 street resurfacing contract to Rogers Group for $1,578,389.02. - Accepted approximately one-twentieth of an acre of Highland Avenue property from Henson and Kapasi. - Recognized Citizen Academy graduates and issued proclamations for Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day, Citizen Scholar Institute Day, hate crime awareness, and international teachers. - Took no vote on the Morgan Square redesign; information and discussion only, with a possible vote on October 26, 2026. - Moved into executive session.

The Spartanburg City Council met on September 28, 2026, for a regular meeting that included public comments, proclamations, an update on the International Festival, board appointments, a detailed employee engagement survey presentation, staff updates on a high-profile arrest and a zoning rewrite initiative, and council member updates. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance, and the agenda was approved as amended. Proclamations - International Festival Day: Mayor Jerome Rice Jr. proclaimed October 3, 2026, as International Festival Day in Spartanburg. Representatives from several countries were present. - National Night Out: The council proclaimed October 6, 2026, as National Night Out in Spartanburg, encouraging citizens to join the 43rd annual event. Public Comments & Testimony - James A. Jones spoke on behalf of National Hispanic Heritage Month and urged the city and county to develop a consistent, published process for undocumented crime victims eligible for U visas. He also proposed establishing an immigration law clinic at USC Upstate, offering his firm’s assistance. No other public comments were received. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved unanimously without discussion. Discussion Items - International Festival Update: A representative presented details for the October 3rd festival, now held downtown. The 2025 festival drew 10,000+ attendees, including 1,500 from North Carolina, Georgia, and Tennessee. The 2026 event features 33 countries, a new downtown footprint, a “Dining Around the World” challenge (18 participating restaurants), and a passport activity. It is a rain-or-shine event. - Boards & Commissions Appointments: The council approved staff recommendations: Brian Sanders (reappointment to Design Review Board), Dennis Mitchell (Board of Zoning and Appeals), and Mary Fields Chun (Planning Commission). All votes were unanimous. - Employee Engagement Survey Results: City Manager Chris Story presented results from a voluntary survey of the city’s 425 employees (58% response rate, administered by Dr. Patrick Jinks’ firm). He identified three gaps: compensation (dissatisfaction with pay), accountability (concerns over handling poor performers), and communication (between senior leadership and employees). Strengths included confidence in immediate supervisors, role clarity, and a strong sense of purpose and mission. Council members discussed the need for regular surveys, revisiting the 2023 compensation study, and improving council-employee understanding. Story outlined ongoing efforts to address gaps, including training, new communication platforms, and cultural mapping. Staff Updates - Police Department: Story praised the diligence of the Spartanburg Police Department in making arrests related to the tragic murder of 7-month-old Zamir Smith (August 3, 2026), emphasizing the methodical process over speed. - Code Spartanburg: A zoning ordinance rewrite process was announced, with two public input sessions scheduled: October 7 (4:30-7:30 PM at the Barrett Room, Library) and October 8 (same time at Dr. TK Gregg Community Center). The effort is expected to take about a year. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda, proclamations, and board appointments were approved unanimously. - The employee engagement survey results were received and discussed; no formal action was taken, but the city manager committed to continuing improvement efforts and considering a two-year survey cycle. - Council members expressed support for the police department’s work, community events, and ongoing initiatives. Council Updates - Council members reported on attending events (One Spartanburg annual celebration, Hampton Heights Porch Fest, RB Sims water treatment plant 100th anniversary, Wofford Parents Weekend, etc.), highlighted upcoming events (fire prevention open house, candy drive for trunk-or-treat), and reiterated concerns about gun violence and youth. The meeting adjourned without a recorded time.

The Spartanburg City Council met on September 14, 2026, to address a full agenda including public comments on housing conditions, a Constitution Week proclamation, recognition of retiring staff, several development agreements, an airport microgrid project, a microtransit pilot extension, and a joint government facility ordinance. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes for the August 24, 2026 City Council meeting. - Approval of the agenda for the September 14, 2026 City Council meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - John Otwale (speaker): Expressed concern about unsanitary conditions at Riverwood apartment homes, owned by Morgan Properties, which forced his daughter (a Converse University student-athlete) out of her unit. He urged the city to provide public oversight of out-of-state property companies, stating, "You guys are my voice." He praised city staff for responsiveness. - Beverly Benson: Delivered a poem calling for respect, compromise, and unity in public discourse, emphasizing that "different is an acceptable space to be." Proclamations & Recognitions - Constitution Week Proclamation: The mayor proclaimed September 17–23, 2026 as Constitution Week, marking the 239th anniversary of the drafting of the U.S. Constitution. - Retirement Recognition – Mark Cleveland: Recognized for 22 years of service (2004–2026) as project manager, parking operations leader, and customer service manager. He was presented with a "Mark Cleveland Kindness Jar" filled with candy, symbolizing his legacy of kindness. Discussion Items - Airport Microgrid Resilience Project (Information Only): Terry Connington reported that the airport will install a solar panel and sodium-ion battery system to provide emergency power for critical functions (terminal, runway lights, fuel farm, hangar doors, and MedTrans helicopter fuel). The project is the first in the U.S. by the manufacturer for this purpose. Funding: $75,000 from airport enterprise fund, remainder from state/federal grants and MedTrans. Questions confirmed the system will provide 100% power for current and future airport needs. - Microtransit Pilot Extension: Kevin Limehouse and Dennis Locke requested a six-month extension to collect more data for eventual citywide expansion. Current average wait time is 14 minutes; the pilot uses three vehicles (two active, one spare). First four rides are free, then $2. Council discussed potential for extended hours and using city events to test evening service. The motion passed. - Duncan Park Perimeter Trail Construction: Kim Brown presented the bid award for a trail with an elevated boardwalk, following community engagement (166 survey respondents). The project aims to improve safety, traffic calming, and connectivity. The motion passed. - Abandoned Building Revitalization Act Certification (2199 Southport Road): City Manager Chris Story explained the vacant former Bi-Lo grocery store qualifies for state tax credits to facilitate conversion into office space for a growing local company. The motion passed. - Textile Communities Revitalization Act Resolution: Certified two downtown parcels for state incentives, fulfilling a prior development agreement commitment. The motion passed. - Spartanburg Housing Revenue Note (Stokely Terrace): Approved the reissuance of a multifamily housing revenue note for an affordable housing development in Anderson, SC. The action generates administrative revenue for Spartanburg Housing with no financial exposure to the city. The motion passed. - Kennedy Street Affordable Housing Development Agreement: Approved a 20-year agreement for 48 affordable apartment units (100% below 80% AMI) on city-owned land adjacent to the Kennedy Street parking garage. The city conveys the land; annual payments start at $50,000 and rise to $93,000–$100,000. Council discussed data confidentiality, monitoring compliance, and the rigorous LIHTC application process. The motion passed. - Forest Park Single-Family Homes Development Agreement: Authorized an agreement with Regenesis CDC for 23 market-rate homes on remaining city-owned lots, after 17 affordable homes were built over 18 years. Discussion centered on mixed-income intent, historical context of the broader neighborhood, and the lack of affordable units in this phase. The motion passed. - Joint Government Facility Ordinance (First Reading): Approved an intergovernmental agreement with Spartanburg County for the shared government center. Discussion covered naming rights (requires 2/3 majority of both councils), cost allocation by square footage, technology security (separate data systems), and restrictions on using the building's likeness for media interviews (intended to avoid branding favoritism). The ordinance passed first reading. Staff Updates - Disaster assistance from Hurricane Helene is ending after helping 82 families with tree removal and roof repairs. - A new $1.5 million grant for lead hazard reduction and healthy homes has been awarded. - Hampton Heights Porch Fest will be held on September 27, 2026, from 12:30–5:30 PM on West Hampton Avenue. Council Updates - Councilwoman Rogers: Thanked the public for engaging in the lengthy meeting. - Councilwoman Smith: Reported only five working EV charging stations downtown; urged better infrastructure planning. - Councilman Brown: Requested traffic calming on North Liberty Street due to new development; mentioned attending a PGA tournament. - Councilwoman Sarah: Reminded about early voting starting in October; encouraged voter turnout. - Councilman Fulmer: Promoted Miles with the Mayor event at Duncan Park on September 18 and the Porch Fest. - Mayor Pro Tem: Announced front porch roll calls in Liberty Heights and Forest Park; expressed condolences for Michael Knuckles (homeless man) and Fred Burgess; urged checking on seniors and caution about bringing partners into homes with children. - Additional announcement: Ballet Under the Stars by Ballet Spartanburg at Fifth Third Park on September 20, 2026 at 5 PM (free). Key Outcomes - All motions and resolutions passed unanimously. - Microtransit pilot extension approved for six months. - Duncan Park trail bid awarded. - Abandoned building certification and textile community resolution approved. - Spartanburg Housing revenue note approved. - Kennedy Street affordable housing development agreement approved. - Forest Park development agreement approved. - Joint government facility ordinance approved on first reading. - Meeting adjourned.

The meeting opened with a moment of silence for a tragic incident in Gaffney, then recognized the Fire Department’s successful defense of its fifth accreditation. Council unanimously approved minutes, the agenda, and a consent agenda item authorizing property transfers in the Highland neighborhood. A presentation from Habitat for Humanity highlighted their impact and future plans. Council appointed a new member to the Design Review Board, discussed maintenance concerns on city thoroughfares, and received updates on city events and public safety. Consent Calendar - Minutes approval: Approved unanimously for the August 10, 2026 City Council meeting. - Agenda approval: Approved unanimously for the August 24, 2026 meeting. - Consent Agenda: Approved. Included an ordinance to authorize the city manager to execute an agreement for the transfer of scattered site properties in the Highland neighborhood. One council member (Councilwoman Wilma) appeared to oppose, but the motion carried. Public Comments - None were offered. Discussion Items Fire Department Reaccreditation - City Manager Chris Story introduced Fire Chief Rudin/Bruden, who reported that the department had successfully defended its reaccreditation in Chicago, earning its fifth accreditation. The Chief thanked firefighters, council, and administration. Council also recognized Captain Van Elk for winning first, second, and third place at a firefighter championship in Florida. Habitat for Humanity Presentation - Raymond Davis, Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Spartanburg, presented on the organization’s history, design evolution, and community impact. Key data: 163 units built since 1987, 68 closed homes; 35 homes in the north side, 19 on donated Regional lots; appraisal values average $220,000 (context from later figures), mortgage amounts around $55,500, immediate equity at closing of $61,000, and a typical monthly principal payment of $442 versus previous rent of $921. Davis noted that 85% of families reported feeling safer and 75% reported improved children’s grades. He also mentioned a high demand: 3,200 applicants in the first digital intake, 3,400 in January, narrowed to 2,100 in-county respondents, and currently working with 500. Council members asked about waiting lists, concentration in the city, and future plans for duplexes or townhomes. Davis expressed intent to build more outside the city and to offer varied housing types. Council commended the organization’s work and design improvements. Appointment to Design Review Board - City Clerk recommended Gwen Solenberger for appointment. The motion passed unanimously. Staff Updates & Committee Reports - City Manager Story had no formal updates. Council member (likely Councilwoman Wilma) raised concerns about unkempt weeds and grass on John B. White Boulevard and other major roads, stating it creates a negative impression for visitors. Mayor responded that code enforcement would inspect the corridor. Council discussed fireworks at the baseball stadium; Councilwoman Smith asked about restrictions for private events. Story confirmed there is currently no limit in the lease, but discussions with the Spartanburgers are ongoing to possibly reduce frequency and set time limits (most events end before 11 p.m.). No restriction on weekday fireworks exists currently. Council Updates - Council members reported attending the Citizens Academy, Robert Small’s community event, the naming of the new hotel (The Morgan), retirement of Beth Richardson (20+ years with the city), a pickleball tournament fundraiser ($14,000 raised), restaurant week, and the opening of a new music feature at the Children’s Museum (Friday, August 28 at 10 a.m.). Councilwoman Smith noted a public safety video from soon-to-be Chief Littlejohn stating that 3 out of 4 stolen guns come from unlocked vehicles. Councilwoman Brown mourned the passing of a known unhoused community member and thanked staff for their compassionate care. Key Outcomes - Approved meeting minutes, agenda, and consent agenda. - Appointed Gwen Solenberger to the Design Review Board (unanimous). - Mayor directed code enforcement to address overgrown vegetation on John B. White Boulevard. - City will continue discussions with the Spartanburgers to consider limiting the number and timing of private fireworks events. - No formal votes were taken on the Habitat for Humanity presentation; it was informational.

The Spartanburg City Council met on August 10, 2026, to approve routine items, hear public comments on transportation, discuss an ordinance transferring a vacant lot to Habitat for Humanity, receive an update on the Downtown Transportation Plan, and announce the selection of a new police chief. The meeting concluded with council member updates and a motion to enter executive session. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes for the July 27, 2026 City Council meeting. Motion passed unanimously. - Approval of the agenda for the August 10, 2026 City Council meeting. Motion passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Sam Bakieran (resident of 177 Pierpont Avenue, member of the Bike and Pedestrian Committee) expressed support for the transportation plan. He specifically requested a protected bike lane for Magnolia Street, more connections to major shopping centers on the east and west sides, and thanked the city for its work on bike and trail systems. - Livingston Hawkins (City Council District 6, chair of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Committee) spoke in support of biking infrastructure. He praised the East Main bike lane's parking-protected design, contrasted it with the Magnolia Street bike lane (calling it unsafe due to the door zone), and urged protected bike lanes in future phases and corridors. Discussion Items Ordinance: Transfer of Scatter Site Properties to Habitat for Humanity - Mr. Livingston, Community Development Director, presented a request to transfer one vacant lot (0.23 acres at 457 Bethlehem Drive) in the Highland neighborhood to Habitat for Humanity. Habitat is building nine homes in the area; one is completed, one is under construction, and this lot will be the third. The home will be a four-bedroom house for a large family. Councilman Martin asked about total Habitat homes citywide; staff noted approximately six on North Forest and others in the Northside area, with a presentation from Habitat's executive director scheduled for the August 24, 2026 council meeting. - A motion to adopt the ordinance passed unanimously. Downtown Transportation Plan Update - Fredel Frazier (Planning Director) and Ernie Bauman (consultant from Tool Design/Modern Mobility) presented the draft final plan. The study area is bounded by Daniel Morgan Avenue, Henry Street, and Pine Street. Key findings: downtown intersections perform well for motorists; congestion is limited to commuting hours. Recommendations fall into short-term (0–3 years), mid-term (3–7 years), and long-term (8–15 years) phases. - Short-term recommendations (A-I): Closure of Dunbar and Main through Morgan Square; dedicated pedestrian phase at Church and Main; replace northbound left turn lane on Church with planted median; convert Dunbar to stop control with right-turn-only; mid-block crossing at Dunbar/Church; mid-block crossings on Church between St. John and Daniel Morgan; raised mid-block crossing on Dunbar; three-way stop at Liberty and Main. - Councilman Fulmer raised concerns about bike lane widths on Magnolia/Kennedy (too wide, causing vehicular confusion), requested bollards, and urged moving a mid-block crossing at Commerce Street to short-term due to heavy pedestrian use (especially Social Security visitors). He also asked about connections to the new joint government complex and developments on Broad/Spring. Frazier and Bauman acknowledged adjustments could be made but noted implementation order dependencies. - Councilman Smith asked if SCDOT had agreed to short-term items; Frazier confirmed yes, praising District 3 leadership. - Councilman Rogers asked why raised crosswalks were not used on Church Street; Bauman explained Church is a U.S. highway, limiting treatments to pedestrian refuge islands. - Councilman Brown noted a dangerous crosswalk at East Main/Broad near Richardson Park; staff agreed to review. - Councilman Fulmer noted that SPARTA bus routes were not part of the study scope, though pedestrian improvements considered transit accessibility. Staff Update: Police Chief Selection - City Manager Mitch Story announced the selection of Major Art Little John as the next Chief of Police after a national search. The process involved an organizational assessment, surveys, written/verbal exercises, and a two-day assessment by seven sitting police chiefs. Major Little John has 38 years with the Spartanburg Police Department, starting as a patrol officer in 1988, and has served in numerous roles including commander of the tactical neutralization team and Office of Professional Standards. He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and recipient of the Strom Thurmond Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement (2022). - Chief Designate Little John spoke, thanking the council and city manager, and emphasized his commitment to service, citing personal experiences like responding to the Benji Easler train crash. He expressed readiness to lead. - Council members unanimously congratulated him, noting the rigor of the national search and his distinguished career. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of July 27, 2026 minutes and August 10, 2026 agenda. - Unanimous approval (first reading) of ordinance authorizing transfer of vacant lot to Habitat for Humanity. - Police chief selection announced: Major Art Little John will become the next chief; transition details to follow. - Downtown Transportation Plan update presented; no vote required, but staff will consider council feedback for implementation phasing. - Council member updates reported community events: Back-to-School party (August 1), Bethlehem Center event with Dawn Staley (August 30), Hampton Heights History Day, South Side Promise graduation (August 6), Banana Ball games (three sold-out), Midnight Basketball, and Monument Monday. - Motion to enter executive session approved.

The Spartanburg City Council met on July 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM (presumed) to discuss youth engagement programs, the microtransit pilot program, board appointments, and the appointment of a new city attorney. The meeting included public comments, unanimous consent agenda approvals, and council updates. Councilmember Erica Brown was absent due to a conflict. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the July 13, 2026 City Council meeting (unanimous). - Approval of the agenda for July 27, 2026 (unanimous). - Approval of the consent agenda (unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Marquis Clark (resident of the north side, former principal of Cleveland Academy of Leadership) expressed full support for the city's long-term investment in the north side, citing recent statistics: 85% reduction in violent crime since 2012, 80% reduction in teen pregnancy since 2007, and 40% reduction in poverty since 2011. He urged the council to continue the momentum and not slow down. - Marshal Gill Cooley (on behalf of Coapa Properties, managing property at 308 South Camber Street) opposed a $5,500 bill from the city for tree debris removal. She argued that the trees fell from a neighboring property (252 Rigby Avenue) onto another lot (227 Dallas Place), and then the owner of that lot pushed the debris onto her property. She stated she owns no trees and is not liable, requesting the city address the issue with the correct parties. Discussion Items - Summer Youth Engagement (Item 7) – Presented by Kim Brown (Parks and Rec Director) and Kevin Limehouse (Assistant City Manager). Highlights included: 200 campers in summer day camp (full capacity), 95 participants in the Explorers program (ages 13–15), 336 swim lessons, 89 swim team members (record number), 11 participants in the Sale leadership program, and a new pilot program, Reset, for young men (8 participants, focused on workforce readiness and violence intervention). The program also featured 170 participants in midnight basketball events. The council praised the programs and discussed the importance of tracking retention and returning engagement. Councilmember Rogers requested data on year-over-year participation trends. - Microtransit Pilot Program Update (Item 8) – Presented by Kevin Limehouse. The SpartaGo pilot has achieved: 90% rider completion rate, 97% rider rating, average wait time of 11 minutes, nearly 7,000 riders, and 2,452 rider accounts. The pilot zone was expanded to include the east side, high school, more medical facilities, and grocery stores (Walmart, Publix). Cost per ride is $2. The service operates from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM (with discussion of extending hours). The council expressed strong support for citywide expansion, with councilmember Rogers noting the potential to serve employment centers and downtown parking challenges. Councilmember Smith asked about user demographics; staff noted data on destinations (e.g., high school) but no detailed age breakdown. The city is evaluating next steps with federal, state, and local partners. Key Outcomes - Boards and Commissions Appointment (Item 9) – The council unanimously approved the appointment of Tor Elstrom and Don Maddox to the Housing Board of Adjustment and Appeals. - City Attorney Appointment (Item 10) – The council unanimously approved a resolution to appoint Stinson Ferguson as the new city attorney. Ms. Ferguson is a Spartanburg native with a law degree from the University of Georgia, a master of laws in environmental law from Vermont Law School, and experience as a municipal judge in Greenville and other legal roles. The council thanked interim city attorney Max Hyde for his service. - Council Updates – Councilmember Rogers highlighted the Municipal Association of South Carolina meeting and encouraged residents to take a SpartaGo ride by Labor Day. Councilmember Smith thanked interns and supervisors, and noted the retirement of Beth Rutherford (from A Place to Call Home) and another staff member (unclear name) from Parks and Rec. The mayor reminded attendees of the civility pledge signed at the municipal association. - The meeting moved into executive session (motion approved).