Adopting the Williamsburg County Fiscal 2012-13, balanced budget came down to the wire for Williamsburg County Council and without anticipated state aid. County council made the decision not to allocate the SC Senate’s version of $40 million in government aid, rather cutting the amount to $25,000 before adopting the third and final reading.

The final version of the nearly $2.8 million budget, which exceeded last year’s budget by $154,000 did not include a property tax increase but did include a two percent cost of living increase for all county employees. Williamsburg County Supervisor Stanley Pasley said the increase would include some salary adjustments based upon a compensation study by the University of South Carolina Institute of Government, however, three councilmembers made separate motions before the final vote.

Councilman Franklin Fulmore made a motion to strike the cost of living increase for council and the supervisor from the budget and the motion carried. Councilman Andy McKnight then made a motion to go into executive session to discuss a personnel issue. After reconvening from executive session, McKnight made a motion to add $6,000 to the Williamsburg County Director of Solid Waste salary. Motion carried. Finally, Councilwoman Jeannie Brown-Burrows made a motion to make the truck used by the director of public works placed in a pool of vehicles for council’s use as needed and the key kept in the clerk’s office. Afterward, council passed third and final budget.

In other business, the supervisor bid farewell to Controller Phyllis Underwood. Underwood resigned her position in order to serve as a full-time minister. “I want to thank Phyllis for what she’s done while she’s been here,” said Pasley. “We wish you the best.” Walt Ackerman has been hired for that position.