Celebrating new beginnings with education

`The Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center held a graduation ceremony Friday for 12 detainees who completed the GED and high school diploma program.  Participants received education during a 12-week program and were tested in reading, social studies, math and science. The ultimate goal of the program is to ensure participants can make a better life for themselves once they are released. Four detainees graduated with honors. Families of graduates were invited to partake in the celebration, which included a luncheon and inspirational keynote address from a previously incarcerated citizen who overcame a life of crime and addiction.

Employees donate the gift of life

Richland County hosted a blood drive Thursday. Many employees and residents came out to participate and donate to a worthy cause. Thank you to everyone who came together to help make a difference for individuals in our community and represent the best of Richland County.

NEWS AROUND THE COUNTY

County partners with agencies to provide food, fans

Limitless Community Development, in partnership with Richland County, the Richland County Recreation Commission, the Richland County Sheriff's Department and Senn Brothers Produce, provided nourishment and cooling relief to residents in need through its “Food for Your Heart” giveaway. Attendees stopped by Garners Ferry Adult Activity Center in Hopkins to pick up fresh produce and fans distributed by volunteers, including members of the County’s Community Development team, Richland County Councilwomen Gretchen D. Cooper (District 7) and Chakisse Newton (District 11), and administrative staff. The items given away in today’s event were the result of federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds coordinated by the Community Development Office.

Haynes honored after 36 years of service to County

Sandra Haynes, the County's longtime director of Animal Services, was honored with a retirement celebration and a resolution by County Council recognizing her more than 36 years of loyal, compassionate and sustained service to County Government.

Beginning her career with the County as a clerk typist, Sandra rose through the ranks, demonstrating excellence and professionalism in every role she held. Haynes ultimately became assistant director of Animal Care and then director of Animal Services, where she maintained the department’s dedication to public safety, animal welfare and responsible pet ownership amid organizational changes and evolving community needs.

Exploring business opportunities in Richland County

The Office of Small Business Opportunity held a workshop Thursday at the County’s Voter Registration and Elections Office training room.

The workshop, “Scale Smart: Using Small Opportunities to Grow Big,” featured the expertise of local business mentors who taught participants how to leverage opportunities for business growth and cultivate credibility with County departments.

UPCOMING EVENTS

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL

Richland County Council conducts regular session meetings the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers. All meetings are open to the public.

Councilmembers and contact info

• District 1
  Councilman Jason Branham / 803-542-0002
• District 2
  Councilman Derrek Pugh (Vice Chair) / 803-977-4339
• District 3
  Councilwoman Tyra Little / 803-422-0203
• District 4
  Councilman Paul Livingston / 803-765-1192
• District 5
  Councilperson Allison Terracio / 803-622-6029
• District 6
  Councilman Don Weaver / 803-995-3703
• District 7
  Councilwoman Gretchen D. Cooper / 803-977-4337
• District 8
  Councilwoman Tish Dozier Alleyne / 803-457-2597
• District 9
  Councilwoman Jesica Mackey (Chairwoman) / 803-977-4338
• District 10
  Councilwoman Cheryl English / 803-949-0770
• District 11
  Councilwoman Chakisse Newton / 803-973-9652

For Council-related matters, you may also email the Clerk of Council or call 803-576-2060.