Kingstree Town Council’s first meeting of the New Year began with a swearing in ceremony. Kingstree Town Council Chamber was filled with family, friends, and supporters that included staff of the Kingstree Fire Department, Recreation Department, and the Williamsburg County Sheriff’s Office. Mayor Ricky Burrows is serving his second term after a successful campaign against opponent Donna Snyder. Allen Smith, the newest member to join council, was elected after beating opponent Anthony Bufkin. Smith filled District 2 seat, which had been occupied by Councilman and Mayor Pro-Tem Wallace Bartelle.
Councilwomen Luester McCullough (District 1) and Andrea Kelly (District 6) ran unopposed. McCullough is beginning her fifth consecutive term while Kelly will see her third consecutive term. Kelly also filled an unexpired term in 2001.
Town attorney Ernie Jarrett officiated the swearing-in ceremony. Events such as these often include the presence of a relative or friend who are charged with holding the Bible. Smith’s daughter Hannah had the honor for both him and Councilwoman Kelly. McCullough enlisted sister Thomasenia McCullough and Mayor Burrows chose 92-year-old friend, Pearl Crawford.
Council pledged to preserve, protect and defend the constitution of the state and the U.S. and exercise the trust imposed in them to preserve the peace according to the law for which they were elected. “It’s going to be a pleasure working with our new council,” said Burrows after the ceremony. “I’m looking forward to a strong four years.” Council will face many decisions this year - one being the task of prioritizing up to $10 million in projects.
In other business, council voted 5-1 (McCullough abstained) to elect Monica Murdaugh (District 4) as Mayor Pro-Tem. “I hope that we will look to do much for the Town of Kingstree,” said Murdaugh during non-agenda council comments. “Not just for the next four years but to look toward a vision for our children and our children’s children…and not just for our district, but for the whole town.” Kingstree Town Manager Dan Wells introduced Leonard Lowery, as the town’s new town clerk/human resources administrator. Lowery has a Master’s degree in Public Administration and Human Resources Development and an undergraduate in Criminal Justice. He has over 15 years of service with the State of South Carolina and 14 years of human resource experience in business and industry. Council’s next regular scheduled meeting will be held January 23, at 6:30 p.m.