Williamsburg County Council received a significant contribution from Progress Energy during their December 18, meeting. The check, which was presented to council by Progress Energy Manager-Economic Development-SC W. Stuart Ames will provide for certain renovations to the former Milliken building. From left: Williamsburg County Councilman Eddie Woods, Williamsburg County Councilman Harry Darby, W. Stuart Ames, Williamsburg County Supervisor Stanley Pasley, Williamsburg County Councilman Andy McKnight, Williamsburg County Councilwoman Jeanie Brown-Burrows, and Williamsburg County Councilman W.B. Wilson. Photo by Michaele Duke

Attracting industry to Williamsburg County is a priority and making what we have available is just as important. Therefore, the building that once housed Milliken is about to see a critical addition. During Williamsburg County Council's December 18, meeting, Williamsburg County Development Corporation Executive Director Hilton McGill presented county with some good news. McGill said the facility, which does not have sewer, has been the focus of interest. McGill said grants will provide for the majority of construction and treatment of the effluent - but not all, and they will have to come up with the funds to pay an engineer.

The funding came by way of a significant contribution from Progress Energy. W. Stuart Ames presented the check to which Williamsburg County Supervisor Stanley Pasley expressed his gratitude. "We certainly would like to thank Mr. Ames and Progress (Energy) for all of their support that they've rendered to Williamsburg County through the years," said Pasley. "And we look forward to continued strong relationship and support from you in order to try to make a difference in the lives of the citizens of Williamsburg County and the surrounding area." The funds, which are from utility tax credits, do not affect subscribers.

In other business, after a public hearing, council approved third and final reading of an ordinance to amend an agreement for the development of joint county industrial park. The agreement, which was executed in 1995, will provide for additional property in both Williamsburg County and Berkeley County.

The ordinance has been amended many times over the years. In the past the county has received annual payment of $325,000 to $350,000 from the multi-county parks it is partnered with. The parks are located in Oconee, Greenville, Berkeley, and Florence counties. The funds will be placed in the Williamsburg County Development Corporation economic development fund and provide for the entire budget, as well as product development, marketing and incentives are paid. Industrial parks include approximately 350 partners.

In addition, council approved a resolution authorizing to contract Jack Whiteside as consultant and acting director for the Williamsburg County Aeronautics Commission.