Dear Pendletonians,

I want to thank everyone who joined us for the April Town Council meeting, as well as all who continue to stay involved and informed about the work happening in our town. Your engagement truly matters and helps make Pendleton the special community it is.

We recognized three important April observances. As part of Volunteer Recognition Month, Council honored the volunteers from Pendleton Pride in Motion for their service and dedication to our town. They coordinate the quarterly town work days and litter pickups. We also recognized Scottish American Heritage Month, which reflects Pendleton’s meaningful sister-city relationship with Stornoway, Scotland. Additionally, we recognized April as Child Abuse Prevention Month, which reminds all of us of the importance of promoting children’s well-being and strengthening families in our community.

At this month’s meeting, Town Council heard updates from our Police Department, Planning Department, and Town Administration.

Public safety remains a top priority. Council received the March police report, which showed strong department activity and community engagement, including more than 581 calls for service, 18 reports taken, 16 state citations, 45 warning tickets, and continued outreach at community events. The department also celebrated the graduation of Officer Thome from the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy and the start of field training.

We heard encouraging updates from Planning and Zoning. In March, the department issued 25 permits, including work related to new homes, business improvements, signs, land subdivision, and site development. Staff also continued work on long-range planning, annexation discussions, code enforcement, and affordable housing conversations that will help shape Pendleton’s future.

The Administrator advised that the Winston Street project state inspection was completed and we are in the process of closing the grant. The Wastewater Treatment Plant construction project continues with a number of performance tests completed this month. The Municipal Parking lot project behind Brews at the Square will start up again now that Spring Jubilee is complete. The CMAR (Construction Manager at Risk) committee will interview the top 4 submissions on the April 15th. The Central Road pump station is 80% complete with the generator being delivered in the next two months.

A number of action items focused on community support and town improvements.

Council approved

• Council considered requests to waive fees for several community events, including Super Saturday, But God, Fireworks for Firefighters, and the Christmas Eve Service on the Village Green. These events are a big part of what keeps Pendleton connected and vibrant, and I appreciate the many organizations and volunteers who work so hard to bring them to life.
• Council considered authorizing Scout Troop 161 to replace the Little Free Library on the Village Green, a project that reflects the service-minded spirit we value in Pendleton.
• Several major infrastructure and operational matters were also on the agenda. Council considered awarding the contract for Village Hills Infrastructure improvements to Gar-Con Inc. in the amount of $1,567,460, following a competitive bid process. The project includes major water and sewer improvements intended to strengthen service and support long-term needs in that area.
• Authorized livestreaming of monthly regular session Town Council meetings and Boards and Commission regular monthly meetings on the Town’s YouTube channel but will no longer stream called meetings.
• Approved funds for expanded downtown decorations,
• Transferred surplus benches to Pendleton Pride in Motion,
• Moseley Architects beginning to evaluate the Public Works facility and prepare for future improvements,
• Appointed a municipal attorney,
• Appointed a council liaison to the Friends of the Green Crescent,
• Moved forward on several ordinance items related to wastewater expansion, Village Hills design standards, and a fiscal year 2025-2026 budget amendment.

Council postponed

• Reviewed options for fencing improvements on Mechanic Street near the Village Green and municipal parking area, balancing cost, appearance, and compatibility with the surrounding historic character. Town Council postponed this item until further study can be conducted.
• Discussed the Bailey Bill proposal and requested additional input including a copy of the City of Anderson's ordinance.
• Reviewed the CATbus intergovernmental agreement for fiscal year 2026–2027 and postponing the item so Council could gather more information about the proposed rate increase.

Discussions reflected the wide range of work underway in Pendleton. Topics included infrastructure, public services, preservation, partnerships, and community events. I am grateful for the thoughtful engagement of Council, staff, and residents as we continue working together to keep Pendleton strong, welcoming, and forward-looking.

Thank you again for being involved and for all you do to support our town.

Mayor Pro Tem
Lyn Merchant

If you have any questions or need anything, please contact our dedicated staff by calling 864-646-9409 or emailing info@townofpendleton.org.
 
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Our next Regular Session meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 7 p.m. at Town Hall.