By Denise K. James

Work Session, 6 pm

Council met to discuss the four topics of transient vendors, beach franchise, elections, and maintenance through James Island’s Public Service District.

The topic of transient vendors began with zoning administrator Aaron Pope, who explained a switch in the ordinances. Ordinance 24-11 regarding the vendors, was never dealt with. The ordinance was replaced by Ordinance 3-12.

“Ordinance 3-12 is an amendment stating that, if you were a licensed, transient vendor last year then you may continue to be a transient vendor this year,” explained Pope.

Council Member Pennell Clamp asked, “What about if we don’t have as many transient vendors this year as we did last year? Will the spaces be filled by new vendors?”

Pope replied, “There will not be anyone else to fill in initially. Not until we decide on a new package.”

Council member Paul Hume suggested that once the vendor package is done, new vendors might be able to apply. Pope confirmed that it would be effective immediately.

Council moved on the Beach Franchise Topic. Mayor Goodwin asked if anyone on the Council had anything to change, but nobody did.

Council then moved on to the elections topic, which opened with Mayor Goodwin saying, “We need to figure what to do about these elections.”

Council Member Paul Hume spoke up. “I don’t really understand the purpose of having the county of Charleston either more or less involved. I truly do not get it. If we do keep doing the elections ourselves, there’s a lot involved. There’s a six year cycle, for example.”

“We could change that,” said Mayor Goodwin.

Council Member Charles McCarty said, “I suggest that we ask the county to draw up a distinct proposal regarding the costs and benefits of switching to them.”

“But how will we know the process of doing it ourselves in comparison to their process?” wondered Hume.

“Perhaps a few people could take a class on running our elections ourselves, so we’d be educated on each process,” said Mayor Goodwin.

It was decided that Council would begin the assessment of election processes by approaching the county for a proposal.

Council then moved on to the topic of JIPSD Maintenance. The discussion opened with Charlie McManus, City Comptroller.

“In 2001 there was an agreement on treatment and transportation between Folly Beach and the James Island Public Service District, but it has run out,” he began. “There is also a need for a new agreement for regular maintenance on the sewer system.”

“What will the cost change be with a new agreement?” asked Mayor Goodwin.

“Not much,” replied McManus. “We’ll charge about the same. General maintenance ran about $3000 per month last year, for regular upkeep without any extras.”

“What did it cost for the entire year last year?” asked Council Member Clamp.

“It was about $42,000 for the whole year,” responded McManus.

Council seemed unconvinced that the contracts would be exactly the same, especially without hard numbers to look at.

“All of the previous agreements have been submitted to the city attorney for careful review,” McManus assured them. “If the attorney sees a discrepancy, he’ll bring it to everyone’s attention and we will be able to work through it.”

Council seemed satisfied with this information.

Council Meeting Notes, 7 p.m.

All council members were present.

COMMENTS AND APPEARANCES

Mayor Goodwin opened by thanking Pet Helpers for assisting residents with lessons on how to handle animals. Then he turned his focus to beach renourishment.

“This has been quite a roller coaster,” he said. “But as of yesterday, things are moving along. Ernie Moore, the Chief of Repair and Recovery with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said that he got in touch with Congressman Tim Scott, who contacted Governor Haley to see about getting help for us. In the conference call I learned that about $5.5 million worth of sand was washed away. That doesn’t include other damages. We’re still getting total figures together to send over. If Haley signs the orders, it will go to President Obama, to see if he’ll declare this as an emergency. The one catch is, we still have to pay 25 perecent of the $5.5 million, which would be around $1.3 million for us. We’ll have things to work out. But at least the ball is rolling.”

Mayor Goodwin also told everyone that PRC decided to go ahead with turning the Sand Bar into an eco-lodge.

“They said they still think it’ll be good for the city. O’Rourke said he’d be glad to come back and answer any questions. I guess we’re all going to find out what the heck an eco-lodge is,” he remarked with a laugh.

Jordan Sullivan approached the Council regarding a sporting tournament event for May 19. Most of the games would involve “Balls that Bounce on Water,” a special device that would be sold during the event.

Council Member Hume pointed out that it’s against Folly’s ordinances to sell things on the beach.

Council Member Eddie Ellis piped up, “Yes, this event sounds like a great idea, but if we agree to it then we’ll have to let everyone’s uncle from Orangeburg come on down and sell their kids’ handmade crafts on our beach.”

Sullivan agreed that selling her product during the event may not work. Council encouraged her to rethink the event and come back.

Michael Riffert approached Council regarding his property on East Erie, which flooded extensively last year. He said that he’d like to connect the property on East Erie with city sewer, rather than using a septic system, at his own expense.

Council deliberated on how much would be involved with changing over to the city’s system. Council Member Ellis said the properties were already equipped; they just needed to be connected properly.

Council Member Hume told Riffert to talk to Public Works first.

Next, Joel Flores approached the Council regarding a fundraiser basket ball game for Josh Dybzinski, a Folly Current graphic designer who was in a car accident. Flores proposed that the city basketball courts would be reserved for the game during the Sea and Sand Festival.

Council approved the fundraiser unanimously.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Resolution R01-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council initiating “Operation Home Safe” for the protection of life and property of all citizens of Folly Beach.

Council Member Ellis said he wanted to put the Operation off and get outside funding.

Mayor Goodwin moved to kill the resolution and bring it back later.

Motion to kill passed, all in favor.

Resolution R02-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council adopting the 2012 regular meeting calendars for the Folly Beach City Council, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, Community Promotion Foundation, Utility Advisory Board and Official Holiday Calendar.

Council Member Stuckey said she would like to switch February 7 meeting since she cannot attend.

Mayor Goodwin motioned to cancel the Feb 7 meeting, in favor of a February 21 meeting only.

Motion passed 6-1 with Council Member Paul Hume opposed.

Resolution R03-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council authorizing the expenditure of $3,000 for smoke detectors and fire extinguishers to be given during “Operation Home Safe.”

Motion to kill passed, all in favor.

Resolution R04-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council directing the City Administrator to return 100% of the local option sales taxes for property tax relief, if FY11-12 revenues exceed FY11-12 expenditures by at least $100,000.

Mayor Goodwin motioned to postpone until July.

Motion passed, all in favor.

Ordinance 24-11 - An ordinance amending the Folly Beach Code of Ordinances by amending Chapter 14 on Transient Vendors.

Mayor Goodwin motioned to kill the ordinance in favor of new ordinance 3-12.

Motion to kill passed, all in favor.

NEW BUSINESS

Resolution R05-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council granting the sum of $500 to the Folly Beach Senior Citizens based on the Community Promotions Foundations’ recommendation for the distribution of community funds.

Passed, all in favor.

Resolution R06-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council authorizing the Mayor to sign two agreements between the City of Folly Beach and the James Island Public Service District for the maintenance of six lift stations and the transport of waste water.

Council Member Clamp asked whether the billing would come from James Island or from the City of Folly; it was confirmed that the billing would be done by the City of Folly.

Passed, all in favor.

Resolution R07-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council approving appointments of City officials.

Council Member Ellis motioned to open the floor for Nominations and nominated Bentley Price as Chief Judge.

Price was named, all in favor.

Resolution R08-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council approving appointments of city officials.

Council Member Ellis nominated Joshua P. Stokes for Associate Judge.

Council Member Stuckey nominated Christopher Skipper for Associate Judge.

Stokes was named, 5-2 with Stuckey and McCarty opposed.

Resolution R09-12 – A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council authorizing and directing the administration to continue daily operations of the water and sewer utility at the same spending levels as FY10-11.

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance 01-12  - An ordinance annexing a certain property, located on Oak Island, more commonly known 2362 Palmer Creek Bend, TMS Number 328-03-00-086, into the City of Folly Beach by the 100% Petition Method. (First Reading, Introduced by Mayor Goodwin)

Mayor Goodwin voiced his concern that it costs the City of Folly Beach money to annex people.

Council Member Clamp said, “I sympathize with these folks wanting to be part of Folly Beach.”

Council Member McCarty said he would like more financial analysis.

Council Member Ellis motioned to postpone until February 21.

Motion passed, all in favor.

Ordinance 02-12 – An ordinance amending the Folly Beach Code of Ordinances, Chapter 31; City Government; by enacting a new Section 31.40; Municipal Election Commission. (First Reading, introduced by Mayor Goodwin.)

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance 03-12 – An ordinance replacing Ordinance 24-11, stating that Licensed Transient Vendors from 2011 may continue into 2012.

Passed, all in favor.

COMMENTS

Council Member Paul Hume said he needed to make a correction about his statement regarding the Federal Government outlawing incandescent light bulbs.

“You can still buy them until they’re gone,” he said. “You just can’t manufacture them anymore. I needed to make that clear!”

Council Member DJ Rich thanked restaurant owners for their participation in Taste of Folly. He also reminded everyone about the fence-building party for the dog park this weekend.

Council Members Dale Stuckey, Eddie Ellis, and Pennell Clamp reminded everyone to contact legislators regarding the beach renourishment issue.

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Ever wonder what happened to the Folly Current’s Police Blotter?  Not me.  Here we are, three issues into 2012, and I’ve yet been able to obtain the police reports needed to write each piece. As a matter of fact, since taking over writing the Blotter after Blake Bunch left in the beginning of November, I’ve received only 2 sets of reports.  In spite of weekly requests, whether it be in person or via email, the most recent report I have is for a robbery at Kangaroo Gas Station on December 11.

For almost 2 months, each Monday that I walked up to the newly constructed, taxpayer-funded police barracks to get the promised printed reports, I’d find that the person assigned to do so wouldn’t be in until that night.  Or the following night.  Or out until Friday morning.  At any rate, aside from the first time —an occasion I’d later learn would spoil me — and one other apparent slip up, they’ve told me the best bet would be to come back the following Monday.  So Monday’s With David it became…until that Monday in January the man behind the glass informed me that Chief Brown decided to withhold the officer’s narratives from all future printed reports.

The problems with this are endless, first of which is that this whole two month long debacle appears at a time when the press/police relationship regarding the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act are already in the public eye. That being said, a decision to withhold the narratives from the police reports would alone make the Blotter cease to exist.  The only information available would boil down to ‘attempted robbery’ or ‘1^st Degree Assault.’  I would be forced to spin stories of crime and buffoonery around the beach, an exercise in stupidity that compromises the point of a city’s Blotter and benefits nobody.

To be fair, I was told I could take the one page reports and request narratives from there.  And, quite fairly, I asked if I could go ahead and request the Officer’s narrative for every report every time.  Of course, this only becomes pertinent if I could at least obtain a police report to begin with.  And of course, weeks later, here I am writing this.

Knowing of my editor’s working relationship with both Mayor Goodwin and Chief Brown, I clued him in on my troubles.  Stratton hopped on it without fail, teaching me about the SCFOIA as well as the Post and Courier’s recent foray into the same murky waters. In an email on January 13^th, Chief Brown explained the following:

Stratton, the Mayor called yesterday after your phone call. I want to release all the information we can but also need to ensure we are properly protecting our victims. I know this is a change from years past and I apologize for any inconvenience this has caused. I do not want this to strain our excellent working relationship. I have several phone calls out for information. But I will release the narratives but may have to block some names out either way. I will reach out early next week.

Stratton responded with the following:

Hey Chief – I waited on your call last week.. Hoping we can get this squared away today. We have missed Blotter in the last two issues and have some major catching up to do.

Did you see the story in the Sunday edition of the Post & Courier? http://archives.postandcourier.com/archive/arch12/0112/arc012213362891.shtml

It makes it pretty clear that these reports are public record, in their entirety. It may actually be wrong to be marking out names, although that’s fine with me since we won’t print them anyways. Of course, giving them to the Current without forcing us to constantly submit FOIA requests is your call.

Either way we need to get all of them. I need to tell David he can come get reports by 2 or 3 pm today, as his deadline to get the Blotter to me is 3 pm tomorrow.

Thanks! Stratton Lawrence

To which Chief Brown responded:

You were on my list of folks to touch base with today. I did read the Courier and did receive an opinion from the Attorney General’s Office. If the investigation is active we can restrict details pertinent to identifying the suspect. What I am going to do is print the reports out on Sunday and redact information as needed. Hope this helps.

Finally! On the same page. Right?  Just in case, Stratton sent out one more email:

That sounds good and I appreciate the help.

Can David pick up some reports today? He is about a month behind

Chief Brown responded with ‘Tomorrow.’  So I showed up this Wednesday afternoon only to receive the standard Monday response I’d grown accustomed to.
I understand printing “The Blotter Reports” is at the low end of the FBPD’s proverbial Totem pole of duties.  That being said, I‘m still not sure how it’s three months later and I‘ve only written one Blotter (and now this little tirade, I suppose).

At this point the corner being painted leads to filing FOIA reports for each issue, a tedious, headache inducing exercise for all parties involved.  Especially for something that could be so much easier.

Editor’s Note: While this piece by David Crawford should be read as opinion and entertainment, it does highlight a very real issue regarding the FOIA relationship between the press and the police, both on Folly Beach and in Charleston County. Our hope is to resume Blotter coverage in the next issue through a good faith relationship with Public Safety, hopefully avoiding the legal headache of submitting individual FOIA requests for a column many readers seek out and enjoy.

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By Denise James

All council members were present.

COMMENTS AND APPEARANCES

Mayor Goodwin and Office J. Couche introduced Folly Beach’s new Sergeant, Kevin Barckle, from Pennsylvania. “He has lots of experience, including fire-fighting certification,” remarked Couche.

Barkle said, “I just turned 44 in August and I wanted to use the extensive training I have and not work at a supermarket. I really love the area. It’s a perfect fit so here I am. I’m so happy to be on Folly Beach.”

Couche said citizens could meet the new Sergeant at Taste of Folly next week.

Next, Kevin Whitsitt was introduced as the new director of Utilities and Public Works for Folly Beach, starting in February of 2012.

Mike Richards was presented with an award for giving his time in public service as planning commissioner member.

Carol Linfield thanked Council for their support of Pet Helpers in the past year, and commended the city on the NYE Flip Flop Drop.

Representative Peter McCoy from James Island said, “I am honored to be your representative for Folly Beach and I would like to reiterate that my door is open. I grew up coming to this beach. It’s dear to my heart. One of my priorities this year is to work with the state and feds for the funding for the sand for our beach.”

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Ordinance 32-11 – Raises sewer rates 9.8 percent

Third reading passed 5-1 with Ellis opposed.

Ordinance 37-11 – Clarifies that a home that doesn’t meet flood code cannot be improved beyond 50 percent of the market value of the building for ten years without first bringing it up to meet flood code.

Councilmember D.J. Rich tried again to change the language from ten years to five. The amendment failed. The ordinance passed its third and final reading.

NEW BUSINESS

Anton Dumars was appointed to be on the Planning Commission by Council Member Ellis.

Resolution R01-12, A resolution by the Folly Beach City Council initiating “Operation Home Safe” for the protection and property of all citizens on Folly.

(See story in this issue for details). Eddie Ellis clarified that the program is strictly voluntary, and would begin on March 19. DJ Rich wanted to know what the cap is on the money provided for extinguishers and smoke detectors. “It is not clarified and it should be,” he said. Ellis stated that any surplus from the allotted $3,000 for the program goes back to Council spending. Rich complained that it doesn’t say that in the Resolution. Council member Paul Hume asked how folks’ homes will get checked; Ellis said they will fill out paperwork agreeing to every year. Mayor Goodwin remarked that “it’s sometimes cheaper to buy new supplies yourself than to get checked by an outside company such as Liberty Fire, which is who Ellis suggested. Mayor Goodwin moved to postpone the issue.

Motion to postpone issue passed unanimously.

Resolution R2-12 A Resolution by Folly Beach City Council adopting the 2012 Regular Meeting Calendar for Folly Beach City Council.

DJ Rich motioned to move the February 14^th council meeting to February 7^th, since many council members would be out of town.

Motion was passed 5-1 with Stuckey opposed, saying she would not be available on the 7^th.

Resolution R3-12 A Resolution by the Folly Beach City Council authorizing the expenditure of $3,000 for Operation Home Safe supplies.

DJ Rich motioned to discuss the cap at next week’s work session.

Motion passed unanimously.

Resolution R4-12 A resolution by Folly Beach City Council directing the city admininstrator to return 100% of local option sales taxes for property tax relief, given FY 11-12 revenues exceed expenditures by at least $100,000.

DJ Rich said, “My thought was beach renourishment project, but we have other things coming up as well.”

Eddie Ellis said, “I think it’s important to return the money to the property tax payers. There are a lot of folks that live on fixed incomes. Lets retain what we like about folly.”

Hume said, “The idea is great, and I’m all about giving us our money back, but prematurely committing to that might not be wise.”

Ellis motioned to decide on what to do with any money closer to the budget time, perhaps in July.

Motion to postpone passed unanimously.

Resolution No. R05-12 A Resolution by Folly Beach City Council to close Center Street for Taste of Folly to corner of Huron and Center.

Passed, all in favor.

COMMENTS

DJ Rich told everyone that plans are continuing for the Dog Park, particularly working on fencing and signing. Rich declared Saturday Jan 28^th to be a dog park fence building party. No construction experience necessary.

Dale Stuckey reminded everyone that if they know anyone in Congress to talk to them about renourishment.

Council Work Session, January 10, 2012

By Denise K. James

Council met to discuss the topics of the Folly Beach Park’s renourishment, as well as election boards. Mayor Goodwin opened the discussion by giving the floor to Mr. Tom O’Rourke, Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission executive director.

O’Rourke began by stressing how dire the situation is, and how sad the prospect of erosion is for Folly Beach.

“We don’t have time to wait on something to happen with the state and the feds,” he said to council. “We’re going to go ahead and move forward. The park is too important, and we have to bring it back. So far, we’ve gone ahead and asked a coastal engineer to look at our permits and see about bringing in sand.”

O’Rourke emphasized that he didn’t believe Folly would receive any “special” money in 2012 to take care of the beach’s renourishment problem.

“Honestly, I don’t think we’ll get any money right now, but if we get our regular money for 2013 everything should be fine,” he said. “I do think we’ll get that much. In the meantime, if it makes sense to the Coastal Engineer we have on board, we’ll do something sooner. We’re fighting for this. It might be expensive, but we’ll try to move forward and keep you informed.”

O’Rourke next began talking about the possibility of turning the old Sand Bar Restaurant into a county-funded lodging facility.

“I’ve been talking about buying another property on this island,” he announced to a wary council. “It’s the old Sand Bar restaurant. The family wants to gift this property to us if we agree to maintain it as it is right now. But I told him we’re not interested in competing with other restaurants on the beach.”

O’Rourke went on to explain his vision for the old restaurant, which entailed a lodging facility for “outdoor adventurer” types who want to visit the Folly area.

“What we will do is have a sort of lodge—where people can come, stay for maybe a week at a time, and do different kinds of outdoor activities,” he said. “This would be a great stop on the Blue Water Trail. It could be really good for the island and produce year-round tourists. But none of this is a done deal yet; we’re just talking about it so far. What we’re working on now are people living there in the apartments who don’t know about any of this yet. We do want to give them sufficient time.”

At this declaration, the council began to look very uncomfortable and O’Rourke tried to smooth their feathers.

“It’ll be a while—30, 60, maybe 90 days–to get it empty, so it’s not immediate. We feel like the donation of this property will be amazing, “ he stressed.

“What about the plans for the waterway?” asked council member Charlie McCarty.

“We’ll leave the dock just the way it is,” replied O’Rourke.

“We’re just concerned about the congestion with river boards, et cetera,” said McCarty.

Council member Paul Hume said, “Also, do you see that as competing with the private hotels and rental houses?”

“That’s fair. It would be foolish to say there’s no conflict,” conceded O’Rourke. “But what we are not after are people who want to enjoy Folly. We want people to utilize our outdoor programs. You aren’t just coming to enjoy the beach—it’s an eco lodge of sorts.”

“How many people?” asked Council Member Dale Stuckey.

“Very small. A few people,” replied O’Rourke. “We won’t use it as a restaurant, but we could use the space as a classroom or reception hall.”

“What about a Conference center?” asked McCarty.

“No. This is for the person doing outdoor activities, like kayaking, said O’Rourke.

The council members looked at each other, not thoroughly convinced. Finally, council member DJ Rich spoke up.

“You are taking a residence away from a significant amount of people. You’re kicking out people who have lived here on this island for forty years!” he exclaimed.

“They have options. We’re not kicking them out. The owner would take action either way,” responded O’Rourke.

“It’s another piece of Folly Beach gone. That’s going to be sad. They’ll be gone from the island, those people,” mused Council member DJ Rich.

“People think the county is trying to take over,” said Hume.

Moments later, the discussion returned to the park erosion.

“If something happens and the park isn’t open for 2012, is the money for beach nourishment still coming through?” asked Rich.  “We have several pieces of property that need that money. A lot of people will feel like they aren’t getting fairly compensated for something new on the island.”

O’Rourke began to look defeated. “Perhaps this idea isn’t good for Folly Beach after all,” he said. “If this council is against it, it won’t happen.”

“We need more information,” said McCarty as O’Rourke stepped down from the podium.

“Basically, we have good people on the renourishment committee,” said Mayor Goodwin. “We have a good lobbyist in Washington, and their agency is working for us at no cost. They are going to send a letter to our Senators that says how this is a federal problem.”

The council brainstormed on how future erosion problems might be solved.

“We need to look at another system down the road,” said Hume. “The contract will run out in about 30 years. Some of the best engineers are the Dutch. They’re under water. “

McCarty laughed.  “What’s experimental in the US is proven in the Netherlands!”

“Anyway, everyone who knows an elected official needs to get in touch with them,” said Mayor Goodwin.

“We need to show what it means to them,” said Hume. “We need to show Folly’s revenue in relation to the state”

“I gave it to them for one year already and that impressed them,” said Mayor Goodwin.

Later, the council members refocused their attention on the election board issue.

“They sent us something that tells us nothing,” complained Hume. “I thought they’d make it clearer like they said they would. I want to know the advantage of these folks doing this. I don’t see those advantages listed here. I don’t see what the city of Folly Beach gets. The other thing is, as I look at this information, the commission that we currently have isn’t even legal. Let’s be honest.”

Mayor Goodwin replied, “If we want to keep things the way they are, we have to have an election, but we’re not going to have one before Jan 21.”

“Do we have people to do it?” asked Hume.  “Did any of the people resign?”

“Yes,” said Mayor Goodwin.

“ Is there an advantage for going to the county?” asked Hume.

“It might save $600. That’s what I heard,” replied Stuckey.

The council members deliberated for a few moments on what the most cost effective option would be. No one could say for certain if money would be saved through letting the County take care of elections.

Mayor Goodwin finally said, “If it’s something like a five dollar discrepancy, then that is not much.”

“What could the county handle for us?” asked Hume.

Stuckey said, “They could handle it completely, or let the election commission do part of it still.”

Hume said, “We still have to pay for publishing, printing, all expenses incurred by the county. What would we really be saving anyway?”

Mayor Goodwin said, “With the county, we might get people from West Ashley, North Charleston, James Island…”

After a few more minutes of discussion, the council members seemed to agree that keeping things the way they are is best, and any cost differences are too small to mention.

“I don’t see any reason to change it to the county. Right now the only thing we can do, if we aren’t going to the county, which I assumed from the beginning, is just to continue how we are,” said Mayor Goodwin.

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All council members were present except Eddie Ellis.

COMMENTS AND APPEARANCES

Council approved the Splash and Dash swimming and foot race on July 28 to raise money for the S.C. sea turtle hospital, with an amendment by D.J. Rich to cap the number of race participants to 100 people.

Joseph Debney, the director of the County Board of Elections, spoke to council about the city’s options for transferring control of elections to the County. Kiawah, Sullivan’s Island, and Isle of Palms all let the county run their elections, said Debney. He said it would benefit the city to eliminate its election commission because the County staff works with elections constantly, undergoes regular training, and would take over certification of vote totals (Folly Beach’s commission certified incorrect numbers in the initial November election this year).

Nancy Smith of 1207 Tabby Drive expressed concerns that Ordinance 43-11, an initiative to use Christmas trees to restore sand dunes, would negatively affect the amount of turtle nesting habitat.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Sewer Package

Ordinance No. 30-11 – Moves the first $40,000 collected each year from the hospitality tax account to the city’s capital acquisition fund.

Passed second and third readings unanimously.

Ordinance No. 31-11 — Repeals sewer PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) fees.

Passed second and third readings unanimously.

Ordinance No. 32-11 – Raises sewer rates 9.8 percent

Paul Hume said that Eddie Ellis had asked him to relate that had he been present, he would not have supported a rate increase. Mayor Goodwin criticized Ellis for his way of getting out of the vote on 32-11, and Hume stated that he believed Ellis was sick.

The ordinance passed 5-1, with Rich opposed.

Ordinance No. 33-11 – Designates the $60,000 annual expense to pay off the Folly River Park come from the Municipal Accommodation Fee Special Revenue Fund

Passed second and third readings unanimously.

Flood Insurance Rate Package

Zoning Administrator Aaron Pope explained that this series of ordinances is designed to better the city’s score on a FEMA evaluation that determines the rates homeowners pay for flood insurance. Passing the package of ordinances could save each owner an additional $100 annually, on average, said Pope.

Ordinance No. 34-11. Formalizes a requirement that nonresidential construction must be elevated no lower than one foot above the bass flood elevation (BFE).

Passed second and third readings, all in favor, with a clarification that it does not raise the overall height allowance by one foot.

Ordinance No. 35-11. Requires final plats of proposed developments to clearly indicated the BFE on their plans.

Passed second and third readings, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 36-11. Requires homebuilders to sign a piece of paper acknowledging that they are not allowed to build habitable space below the BFE underneath an elevated house.

Pope clarified that this ordinance makes it less likely for a future owner of a house to build below the BFE and then claim ignorance of the law.

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 37-11. Clarifies that a home that doesn’t meet flood code cannot be improved beyond 50 percent of the market value of the building for ten years without first bringing it up to meet flood code.

An amendment to change the language from ten years to five years failed 3-3.

The ordinance passed 4-2, with Rich and Pennell Clamp objecting.

Ordinance 38-11. Changes construction standards to B zone regulations in A zone areas on Folly Beach, requiring breakaway walls at ground level.

Passed second and third readings, all in favor.

NEW BUSINESS

Alan Kleinfeld was appointed to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Resolution No. 43 -11 – Creates a “Dunes Day” where citizens recycle their Christmas trees with the city, using them for beach nourishment to replenish critical sand dunes.

D.J. Rich said that the resolution is the most involved piece of legislation he’s been a part of on council, citing OCRM permitting requirements and considerations to protect turtle nesting habitat. He said that trees would be stored in the City’s lot at 512 East Erie. Once the trees are placed on the beach, Rich said if dangers arose or they washed away they’d be removed. If the necessary permits can’t be acquired, they’ll be mulched down and used elsewhere.

The resolution passed, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 29-11. – Requires that political signs be installed no sooner than 30 days prior to elections and removed no later than two days after certification of an election.

No motions were filed so the ordinance was shelved.

COMMENTS

D.J. Rich said that he’d written checks for over $3,000 to cancer patients on Folly thanks to money raised at Follypalooza. He urged citizens to contact him about patients in need of help.

Paul Hume pointed out that people had until January to go out and buy 100 watt incandescent light bulbs that would soon be illegal thanks to ‘our other nanny government.’

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City Council

December 8, 2011

Work Session, 5 p.m.

Council met to discuss how to govern transient vendors in 2012, including food trucks, sidewalk art and jewelry stands, and rental companies. They struggled to define a transient vendors, bringing to light ‘brick and mortar’ businesses like the Sand Dollar that might have art for sale hanging from their walls outside. Another issue arises when brick and mortar businesses contract to allow another business to operate on their outside property, like a moped rental outside Black Magic Coffee.

“I don’t think it’s right for you to tell me that I can’t sell t-shirts and rocking chairs at Follywood if I want to, but I’m not going to have a mobile cart outside selling those things,” said council member and Planet Follywood owner D.J. Rich.

Council member Paul Hume stressed that transient vendor definitions needed to be defined, possibly with exceptions for brick and mortar businesses selling merchandise outside their building. He added that a company like Black Magic might say, “You’re allowing them to sell jewelry down in front of the Dollar in the day time. Why can’t we sell motorcycles to people who get all jazzed up on our coffee?”

Rich pointed out that transient vendors haven’t been a problem over the last few years, but that council is now trying to prevent an over abundance of them. Talk arose of grandfathering in existing vendors on Folly. Rich raised the possibility of a range of licenses so that the city wouldn’t be flooded with just one type of vendor.

Confusion continued, and Paul Hume said that if council couldn’t agree on what a transient vendor was, “then let’s go get a beer because we’re wasting our time.”

Mayor Goodwin pointed out a recent news story about the popularity of food trucks, saying “get ready, it’s going to get worse.” He suggested a ‘food truck park’ at 3^rd block west, where the vendors could maintain the bathrooms.

Rich said he felt like residents appreciate the ‘funky feel of something like a food truck’ that’s unique and different. Goodwin said that he personally does not want to see mopeds rented on Folly Beach. Rich said that any problems with moped drivers can be fixed with existing laws instead of a ban.

Zoning Administrator Aaron Pope told council that he just needs to know how many transient vendors the city wanted to approve, and how many of each kind, and that he would draft an ordinance.

Hume broke transient vendors down into three groups: rentals, food, and non-food sales. He suggested putting a number cap on each category.

Pope spoke of the problem with vendors in the past who argue that they’re not transient and don’t pay the fee, calling for legislation to enforce fees in the future. Pope said he would draft an ordinance for council to review.

Special Meeting, 6 p.m.

CITIZENS COMMENTS

Susan Breslin of 1113 East Arctic pointed out language in the Flood Plain package being presented that might be interpreted as allowing increased elevation in houses and asked council to amend that to not change the current rules.

Aaron Pope introduced five ordinances that together could lower Folly’s community rating system (CRS) score with the Insurance Services Office that regulates flood insurance. By lowering Folly’s score from 8 to 7 on the 1-10 scale, each person on Folly with a flood insurance policy could save $195 each year, totaling approximately $300,000 in annual savings community wide.

Ratings are determined every five years, and Folly is currently up for reevaluation. The auditor suggested several ways Folly could lower their rating to achieve the savings.

Council turned down a motion to approve the five ordinances in one package, instead choosing to consider each one individually.

Ordinance No. 34-11. Formalizes a requirement that nonresidential construction must be elevated no lower than one foot above the bass flood elevation (BFE).

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 35-11. Requires final plats of proposed developments to clearly indicated the BFE on their plans.

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 36-11. Requires homebuilders to sign a piece of paper acknowledging that they are not allowed to build habitable space below the BFE underneath an elevated house.

Eddie Ellis clarified that these areas could be finished off as “a dart board room, or lawn mower storage.” Pope said it couldn’t be habitable space. Ellis clarified that it could be a “boy’s night out room, or a man cave.”

Passed, all in favor.

Ordinance No. 37-11. Clarifies that a home that doesn’t meet flood code cannot be improved beyond 50 percent of the market value of the building for ten years without first bringing it up to meet flood code.

Pope clarified that the rule was previously one year and had been recently changed to three years. He said that FEMA requires a minimum of five years, and that the Folly Building Department had decided on a ten year requirement.

Rich suggested an amendment to lower the recommended time from ten years to five years. Goodwin pointed out that the ordinance relates to major work, suggesting that a house should be brought up to code regardless, whether it’s one year or 20 years.

“The ultimate goal of flood plain regulation is to bring the community into compliance,” said Pope. “The point of our whole program is to get all the buildings in the flood plain elevated. It reduces future claims and it reduces future loss of life.”

Council voted on an amendment to change the ordinance from ten years to five years. The amendment failed 4-3.

The original ordinance to change the requirement from one to ten years passed 5-2.

Ordinance 38-11. Changes construction standards to B zone regulations in A zone areas on Folly Beach, requiring breakaway walls at ground level.

Pope explained the difference in A zones and B zones on Folly Beach, and the building requirements about elevating above or at BFE and the allowance of breakaway or vented walls at ground level.

Passed, all in favor.

During council comments, Eddie Ellis said he’d found an old family bible and discovered that his great grandfather was the highway commissioner of Bath, New York. “It kind of runs in my blood why I know traffic circles won’t work,” said Ellis.

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These schools form as the redfish’s metabolism slows down with the dropping water temperature and they seek protection in numbers from the faster dolphins. The redfish will try to stay in as shallow water as possible and come up onto the flats at low tide in hopes of evading their predator. In addition, on sunny days, the mud flats will hold a few extra degrees of temperature which attracts these schools as well.

As you might expect, these fish are spooky and if chased will not eat. Once a school is located, it is often best to wait until the school eventually comes close to you. There is nothing more effective now than a chunk of cracked blue crab putting out a scent trail in the water. Rig these baits with a size 3/0 circle hook and it is imperative that the hook point come cleanly out of the bait. Put the rods in a holder and wait until the reel starts singing before you pick it up.

Bait isn’t the only way to catch these redfish. Fly fishermen have an advantage here as flies can land softly and quietly. Darker flies have been working the best with a size #2 black wiggler drawing some fantastic strikes. Should black not work don’t be afraid to rotate over to a size #2 white/chartreuse clouser minnow. As always, aim towards the edges of the school; a cast right over the middle will send the fish running for cover.

Sheepshead are also available and have begun their seasonal migration offshore, although there will still be some stragglers around. You’ll want to target these fish around barnacle covered pilings or docks. Fiddler crabs and pieces of oyster have been working well. Suspend your bait vertically next to pieces of structure using a small sinker weight a short distance above your hook. The bite of these fish, sometimes referred to as “convict” fish because of their black stripes, can be difficult to detect. Given their fight and taste though, anglers find them well worth the challenge.

See you on the water!

Capt. Geoff Bennett operates Charleston Charter Fishing providing fly fishing and light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of fly rods, artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages. For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 843-324-3332, visit his website at www.charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

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Council convened at 6 pm to discuss appropriation of Accommodations Tax (A-Tax) funds. At issue was the A-Tax Advisory Board’s recommended cuts to funding requests, including a 40 percent reduction in funds for beach renourishment. A-Taxes are meant to be spent on tourism related costs, and are subject to review by the state and can be denied after money is distributed, requiring the city to make up the cost difference.

Mayor Goodwin explained that the S.C. Tourism Expenditure Review Committee can audit Folly Beach’s a-tax expenditures, and that the city is required to file a report of what is spent.

Administrator Toni Connor-Rooks explained that while recipients don’t have to be a registered 401c-3, they do have to be able to prove that they are a non for profit. Last year, the City was required to go back and prove that the Surfer’s Healing organization was a justifiable recipient.

Council member Paul Hume pointed out that the city currently spends $15,000 each year on advertising on the digital display at Clemson sports games, and $18,000 on digital billboards.

“It seems to me that after walking out on the beach today, or where the beach used to be, that cutting the renourishment funds might not be the first choice of what we should be thinking about spending money on,” said Hume. The committee had recommended funding $60,000 of the $100,000 initially requested for renourishment.

Council member Eddie Ellis said it’s important to consider where money is being taken out of to do that.

Council member Pennell Clamp questioned the effectiveness of the money spent at the Clemson games. “I’m a Tiger fan,” said Clamp. “I wouldn’t think that … would bring a dollar to this place.”

Connor-Rooks defended the expenditure, calling it very successful. Comptroller Charlie McManus said that the activity on the city website has a ‘tremendous’ spike after games. He called the digital advertising part of a program the city uses to reach tourists.

Ellis said that the advertising has to be balanced against renourishment, and asked how the $40,000 gap in renourishment funding affects the renourishment. He said that if it deters the renourishment then it should not take priority over funding new sand for the beach.

“I’m just very upset with our beach situation and our finances about the beach, and that’s all we have to sell,” said Hume, adding that he has no problems with the digital signs and advertising, but stressing the renourishment as the first priority.

Ellis pointed out that by cutting marketing spending, it could result in less tourists and result in less money next year for renourishment.

The A-tax board’s recommendations also include reducing funding for Fourth of July and New Year’s Eve fireworks from $16,000 to $9,000.

Hume pointed out that the A-tax guidelines specify that funds are meant to attract tourists from more than 50 miles away. “If you’re going to travel more than 50 miles to see our pathetic fireworks, there’s something wrong with you,” he said.

Council member D.J. Rich said that people come here for those entire weekends, and the fireworks are just the culmination of that.

“I don’t want to get to the point where we can’t cover our end of renourishment, if we’re lucky enough to get someone to cover their end,” said Hume. “It’s way way way bad out there. Tell me we’ve got the money for renourishment and I’ll shut up.”

Ellis expressed that cutting $40,000 from the renourishment appropriation could send a message to the federal government that they could reduce what Folly Beach asks for as well.

Connor-Rooks said that the cost of the project had increased from $15 million to $18.5 million, further complicating the request and annual appropriation by the city. She said that Folly has supporters in the state house and in Washington, but that it may require a trip to D.C. by representatives of the city to secure the funding.

Discussion ensued about whether or not council had a habit of kicking issues down the road, setting up the City for bigger financial problems down the road. Goodwin expressed gratitude that the City is not currently in a bad economic situation.

Council adjourned after the work session before reconvening at 7 p.m.

COUNCIL MEETING

All current members were present.

Eddie Ellis offered an invocation that included a prayer for the family of Preston Blanton, who passed away on Oct. 6. “We also offer up in the prayer the men in service that are fighting to protect our company, our country,” said Ellis.

On behalf of the exchange Club, D.J. Rich announced that the police officer of the year was Jimmy Cooch and the firefighter of the year is Jamie Langdon.

Chief Dennis Brown then announced several new employees and officers. He introduced Mark Lee, a new officer and firefighter from Camden, N.J. who recently moved to James Island with his girlfriend. Another new officer, Jamie Forgaley, relocated here from Charlotte, N.C. And began on Folly Beach eight weeks before the meeting. Luke Woodson, another new officer and firefighter,  just moved here from Pennsylvania a couple weeks before.

“Why don’t you have a gun like the rest of them,” asked council member Pennell Clamp.

“He ain’t qualified yet,” laughed Brown. “We ain’t got but one bullet. Don’t you read the paper? We gotta pass it around.”

Brown then introduced Patricia Blazey, a new dispatcher also from Camden, N.J. who just moved to West Ashley.

He also introduced Simon Owens, a new dispatcher, from Swannanoa, N.C.

Brown stated that hundreds of candidates were interviewed, and he believes the City has hired the best of the best.

Council member Paul Hume motioned to remove the A-tax funding from the consent agenda. The consent agenda was then approved.

PERSONAL APPEARANCES

Ed Meyer and Gayle Millage of 1542 North Avalon Circle, Charleston, spoke about their desire to start a late night food business on Folly Beach. “I’ve always worked late nights,” said Meyer, citing a career as a musician and chef. “One of the problems that needs to be addressed is there is never any food late night.”

Meyer said he’d been told that an ordinance had been passed preventing any more transient vendors, and said that his business is different because it won’t clog up traffic on weekends and only be open late night. He has DHEC approval and a kitchen in West Ashley, and wants to serve out of a cart.

“We’re really trying to make this thing as unobtrusive as possible,” said Meyer, adding that they will cook in West Ashley and use batteries for lighting, not generators. “We should leave no footprint at all. We don’t need water to operate,” he said.

They’ve asked for permission to set up next to the Folly Beach Brew Pub, where a previous vendor was set up.

“There is no food served after 11 p.m., but drinks are served until 2 a.m.,” said Millage.

“We want to fill that void,” added Meyer, saying that he was fully insured.

“Without a motion, your request is denied,” said Mayor Goodwin.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

Second and Third Readings:

No. 09-11 (Transferring less than one acre of marshland near Bowens Island Road to SCDOT, on behalf of the Folly Beach Nature Conservancy, in order to raise a bridge over Folly Creek).

Council unanimously approved the ordinance without discussion.They then motioned for a third reading and again approved the ordinance.

No. 10-11 (Granting right-of-way easement to SCDOT for roughly 3/10ths of an acre of land and authorizing the Mayor to execute all documents effecting the transaction)

Council unanimously approved the ordinance without discussion. They then motioned for a third reading and again approved the ordinance.

NEW BUSINESS

Resolution No. R49-11 (Awarding fiscal year 2010-11 A-tax funds)

Paul Hume thanked the advisory board for their recommendations of how to disperse this $245,000. He said that the City is asking for two things, including funding for the fire program and renourishment.

“The beach that we used to have two months ago is now somewhere between Bird Key and Kiawah,” said Hume, adding that the estimated cost of renourishment has grown from $12 million to over $18 million in a few years. He said that no matter how much money is spent on advertising for people to come to the beach, that if the beach disappears, “we’ve got nothing.”

Hume made a motion to send it back to the board to reconsider adding more money to the renourishment, saying that funds for landscaping could be removed since much of it is being washed away, including palm trees at the Washout. He said funds could also be cut from the fireworks displays and the Morris Island Lighthouse. “There are areas in here that are probably not as urgent, as far as need goes, as being able to cover that beach,” said Hume.

Council voted to send the resolution back to the advisory board, with only Rich opposed.

Council member Charlie McCarty said he was glad council decided to respect the A-tax advisory board by sending the resolution back to them for further consideration.

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Cool days and lower water temperatures are setting our fishery on fire! Redfish and trout know they need to eat heartily now or go hungry over the winter. Fortunately, our waters are teeming with shrimp and mullet encouraging these fish to strap the feedbags on. If you have put fishing on hold for the rest of the year, get your tackle out and hit the water – you won’t regret it!

Redfish have begun to start schooling up as usual during this time of year. It has made for some fantastic fishing on the flats. On several charters, we’ve watched packs of redfish with their backs out of the water rushing up and down the banks chasing bait. Sometimes, the action has been so frenzied that birds will hover overhead picking up the scraps. Water clarity has been mixed so we’ve been casting darker artificial lures at these schools. Black with gold flakes has been a particularly productive color.

For trout, artificial paddle tail lures have begun to really produce. We fish them on a 1/4oz. jighead and vary the rate of retrieve. Again, we’ve been staying with darker bodies and Bass Assasain’s Chicken On A Chain or D.O.A.’s Fiji Chicken both work well. To make that jighead even more attractive, try putting a piece of shrimp on the hook. You can use pieces of live or frozen shrimp and it will put a scent trail on your lure that is hard to resist.

At the end of September, we had some massive tailing tides with high tides over seven feet. It made for a great opportunity for fly fishermen to stalk redfish up in the grass. The standard spoon fly with a good weed guard worked best. Watching redfish explode in a foot of water when they eat your fly is downright heart stopping. It can take lots of casts to get just one fish but it is worth the effort. Note that we have another series of big tides at the end of October.

See you on the water!

Capt. Geoff Bennett operates Charleston Charter Fishing providing fly fishing and light tackle charters. Clients choose from a full menu of fly rods, artificial and live bait fishing options with charters tailored to their desires. USCG licensed and insured, Capt. Bennett is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable charter to anglers of all skill levels and ages.

For more information, call Capt. Bennett at 324-3332, visit his website at charlestoncharterfishing.com or email him at captain@charlestoncharterfishing.com.

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Work session, 4 p.m.
Discussion of Resolution 42-11 (Allocating $24,350 from various Public Safety accounts to obtain new record management software)

Public Safety director Chief Dennis Brown recommended investing in a top-notch record management software (RMS) system, a program heightening Public Safety’s ability to track criminal activity and expanding the department’s scope of case management, for the recently-relocated dispatch center. The proposed RMS system includes a Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) system, a comprehensive data base enhancing dispatch service efficiency, according to Chief Brown.

“In order to maximize our future success, I believe we need to invest in the new dispatch center to ensure our staff has the basic tools to accomplish their task,” said the Chief, who anticipates launching the city’s dispatch operations in October. “The current system that we have isn’t designed to operate the dispatch center, and it isn’t a proved, fully-developed record management system.”

Councilman Charlie McCarty inquired about the proposed RMS system’s effect on the city’s judicial operations, and suggested strategies to integrate the two systems, in order to conserve funds and increase efficiency.

Paid Parking discussion

Council thoroughly revised the city’s paid parking contract in an effort to boost parking revenue.

According to councilman D.J. Rich, the city plans on removing the county park’s restroom facility from the parking contract, reducing city parking spaces from 335 to 300, as well as implementing $8 daily fees at various beach access points and extending parking hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The city plans to maintain $2 hourly parking fees at the Washout, however, and will maintain parking passes for residents, according to Rich. “People aren’t going there all day at all – they’re going there for an hour or two to surf, and they‘re leaving,” said Rich, regarding council’s reasoning in upholding the Washout’s hourly rates.

The city also plans to hike-up boot-removal fees from $35 to $50 for illegally-parked vehicles, adopting nearby municipalities’ similar fees, according to Rich.

In addition to reconsidered parking rates and hours, the city will require companies to maintain quick-time release parking tickets for the Public Safety Department (PSD), in order to expedite ticket processing into the PSD’s record management system. “That’s something we’ve had a problem keeping up with over the past couple years,” said Rich, referring to the city’s insufficient attempts in retrieving parking tickets.

Upon receiving guaranteed revenue projections from companies’ bids for available parking areas, the city will select an appropriate candidate and allow companies to decide between hourly or daily parking rates.

“We want to see who’s going to offer us the best deal, and we want to let them do the leg work,” said Rich. “Why should we do leg work on a parking contract when we know nothing about paid parking, for the most part?”
Council unanimously agreed to compile bid specifications for the next meeting.

Audit Presentation

Certified public accountant Larry Finney of Greene, Finney and Horton, presented the city’s audit results for the 2010-2011 fiscal year ending on June 30, and provided insight into the city’s current financial status.
The city received an unqualified audit opinion, the highest approval rate issued by auditors, according to Finney. “It doesn’t get any better than getting an unqualified opinion — that is the best opinion that the city can receive,” he remarked. “Overall, I think the city has a good, healthy financial picture. Be proud — you got that unqualified opinion.”

Finney said the city’s fluctuating utility expenditures call for revamped analysis — due to consistently replacing aging infrastructure and underground water and sewer lines — and urged council to devise a sustainable capital program ensuring annually-raised utility rates.
“If we weren’t doing the bridges, we might not be doing the underground boring; but, trust me, we’d be replacing those lines,” said Mayor Goodwin “We’re living on a wing and a prayer everyday from broken lines.”
Council Meeting, 7 p.m.

Mayor’s Comments

Mayor Goodwin proclaimed Andy Pracht, owner of Sun and Ski Beach Services on Center Street, a special citizen of Folly Beach, recognizing his rash ocean rescue on Aug. 26 when, upon noticing a panicked surfer near the Folly Beach pier without a surfboard leash, he rushed on a jet ski across 15 to 20-foot swells to recover the drowning surfer.

“These efforts were due to Andy’s quick thinking and courage, without thought for his own safety,” read Mayor Goodwin, in a prepared statement.

Upon receiving the accolade, adorned with photographs and mementos highlighting the heroic deed, Pracht immediately credited his fellow crew members in attendance toward aiding the life-saving effort. “It wasn’t just me, it was all of us,” said Pracht.

Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including two resolutions authorizing the administration to carry over last fiscal year’s water and sewer expenditures into daily operations.

Personalal Appearances

Jim Setford of 1215 Tabby Drive sought a variance to retain three barrels protecting the berms fortifying his property from advancing tides and potential flooding.

“It worked perfectly during Irene, it’s worked perfectly anytime we have a seven-foot tide,” said Setford, regarding his berms. “I need the barrels there so that people don’t ride up on the berm and knock down the fence.”

Council unanimously opposed Setford’s request.

Local photographer Ben Eckles, Owner of Couture Photography, proposed holding a world record-breaking fearless bridal photo shoot from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Oct. 2 near the Folly Beach pier, where the photographer plans to snapshot former brides charging into the ocean in their cherished wedding dresses.

Eckles plans to round-up roughly 200 current and formerly-married participants for the Guinness Book of World Records photo shoot, consisting of numerous group and individual photos, and aims to exceed the Netherlands’ unofficial fearless bridal shoot of 150 participants.

“I’m keeping it really simple,” said Eckles, who plans to offer free digital prints for participants online.

“What are you going to do if we vote no?” asked Councilman Eddie Ellis. “I guess I’ll do it somewhere else,” Eckles responded.

Thinking-up alternative locations for the unprecedented event, Councilman Paul Hume proposed holding the photo shoot at Ellis’ residence. “You got room?” asked Eckles, jokingly.

Council unanimously approved Eckles’ proposal.

Bronwyn Santos, community representative for Charleston County’s EnvironmentalManagement Department, introduced Charleston County’s recently-expanded single stream recycling project, an environmentally-conscious effort to attain the county’s 40% recycling goal. (See page XX for more info)

“You guys are just lucky enough you get to be in the first expansion of this program,” said Santos, who anticipates single stream recycling in 12 to 18 months to predominate the county. “Everybody wants to be on it.”

According to Santos, residents must place recycling bins curbside by 7 a.m., in accordance with the city’s bi-weekly collection schedule, with bins’ handles facing the houses. Santos said residents residing on one-way streets must place bins on the right side of the road to hasten the collection process.

Hume pointed out the island’s booming tourist population during summer months, due to weekly rental houses, may require increased collection services. “Because these places are vacation rentals, filling up a large dumpster with beer cans isn’t really a problem for them,” noted Hume.

Santos said the county plans to accommodate the island’s fluctuating population, however. “One of the reasons why Folly Beach was picked is because Folly Beach is a challenge in of itself for single stream recycling,” said Santos. “If we can figure out how to do it here, then we have pretty much solved it everywhere else.”

Dale Stuckey, Folly Beach City Council candidate and Folly Island Dog Owner (F.I.D.O) club president, informed council about the newly-established F.I.D.O club, a five-member board, appointed by Mayor Goodwin, promoting responsible dog ownership on the beach among members and non-members.
From Oct. 1 to May 1, F.I.D.O members are granted off-leash privileges from sunrise to 10 a.m. along roughly five miles of island’s central shoreline.

The group offers primary and family memberships, and currently consists of 60 primary members and 98 family members, including 45 applicants, with 79 pups currently registered to roam the beach freely, according to Stuckey.

“We’re very, very clear during the orientations that F.I.D.O members have to police themselves,” said Stuckey, who unveiled F.I.D.O club’s official neon green dog collar, a required identification piece for members’ dogs. “The owners have to be very responsible with their dogs.”

Stuckey encouraged residents sign-up for upcoming orientations on Oct. 6 and Oct. 26 for F.I.D.O membership.

Robert New of 1676 East Ashley Avenue, urged council to dismiss a permit issued by Ocean and Coastal Resource Management (OCRM) to raise a fence in front of Tides’ parking lot, in an effort to build up a dune and prevent blowing sand from covering the hotel’s parking lot.

New said the permit impedes public beach access in a readily-frequented location often bustling with bocce ball tournaments and other activities.

“Public access to the beach is why people come here,” said New. “It’s what we’re all about on Folly Beach — this is a public beach.”

New acknowledged erosion concerns along the island, and said he understands the Tides’ motives for seeking the permit; however, the long-time local firmly believes the city must protect public interest. “You have to make a fundamental decision as to where, philosophically, we are as a community when it comes to an essence of a taking of the beach by a private enterprise,” he said.
New also pinpointed erosion issues along the island’s East end, and claimed houses jutting out onto the beach, as well as stretches of shoreline riddled with hazardous rocks and walls, render the beach impassible. “For more than two decades I’ve gone out to the beach every evening, I’ve made a left, I’ve walked down the beach to the lighthouse — the lighthouse is near and dear to my heart,” he said. “Can’t do it anymore — that’s a diminishing of the quality of life for everybody who’s walking the beach. Now there’s no access to walk down the beach on the East end — that needs to be rectified.”

New suggested the city commissions a task force to remove rocks andvarious obstacles littering the beach, in order to reopen beach access.

“It comes back down to the same issue: private interest versus the public interest,” said New. “I’m for private property rights, but I hope, and I truly believe that it is critically important for the future of Folly Beach, that you will make sure the public has free and clear access to as much of the beach as possible.”

OCRM permit update

Eric Lutz, the city’s building official, informed council about the OCRM permit’s final review deadline on Sep. 29, and said city officials and residents reserve the right to oppose the project.

Lutz said the permit’s parameters are riddled with ambiguous information, however, and he plans to weed out the project’s discrepancies, including contrasting written descriptions and engineering drawings. “Whenever I see conflict like that, I think it needs to be brought up and resolved,” said Lutz.

Rich requested council receives more information before submitting a final review. “We obviously don’t want to impede public access,” said Rich. “We’re not saying we don’t like the idea, we just need to get more information.”

Council unanimously requested further information on OCRM permit.

Ordinances
Third Readings:
No. 25-11 (Transferring discretionary responsibility from Public Safety director to building official in determining unsightly lots and hazardous properties)
Council approved ordinance, four to two. Ellis and Rich opposed.

First Readings:
No. 09-11 (Transferring less than one acre of marshland near Bowens Island Road to SCDOT, in order to raise a bridge over Folly Creek,)
Council unanimously approved the ordinance.
No. 10-11 (Granting right-of-way easement to SCDOT for roughly 3/10ths of an acre of land and authorizing the Mayor to execute all documents effecting the transaction).
Council unanimously approved the ordinance.
Resolutions
No. R41-11 (Awarding a bid of $130,219,56 towards a city refuse truck)

Councilman Pennell Clamp adamantly opposed purchasing the selected garbage truck and urged council to re-consider different vehicle options. He said that Council did not receive enough information to make an intelligent decision about the $130,000 purchase.

While extensively researching various diesel engine trucks, Clamp concluded the city’s chosen garbage truck, provided by International Truck and Engine Corporation, is rated one of the lowest in fuel mileage among diesel fuel trucks.

In addition to producing inefficient engines, International is currently combating a lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), due to the company’s apparent failure in meeting 2011 EPA standards, according to Clamp.

Clamp also pointed out council consdered only two out of 15 potential garbage truck manufacturers.

“If I’m going to spend $130,000 of taxpayers’ money here in this town, I’m going to know what I’m getting,” exclaimed Clamp. “And I don’t know that we’re getting the right thing.”

Council opposed purchasing a refuse truck until further deliberation, five to one. Mayor Goodwin approved.

No. R48-11 (Awarding a bid of $24,350 towards Public Safety RMS and CAD software)

McCarty further discussed integrating the proposed RMS system with the judicial system, and said the system requires further examination before purchasing.

“Anything we could do, even if it required more money than the $24,000, might give us substantial economic advantages, including reduction in overtime and human resources costs,” said McCarty. “I think it’s worth the effort to see if we can flesh out a better profile for integration of records management systems.”
Council postponed until next council meeting for further deliberation.
No. R42-11 (Allocating $24,350 from various Public Safety accounts to obtain new record management software)
Council postponed until next council meeting for further deliberation, five to one. Mayor Goodwin opposed.

Administrator’s Report
City Administrator Toni Connor-Rooks read a letter from Marty Morganello, president of Surfrider Foundation’s Charleston Chapter, requesting a refund of $2,000 donated by the Chapter to fund Folly Beach Management Patrol (FBMP) throughout the winter months, due to recent-voiced protests against the Chapter’s partnership with FBMP.

According to Morganello, former city councilman Tom Scruggs advocated for community opposition during a recent council meeting towards Surfrider, claiming the Chapter was hampering FBMP operations.

“Honestly, I don’t think I would know Mr. Scruggs if I passed him on the street, and it was never my intention to attack anybody personally. I (we) were voicing our concern to the Chief about the program parameters and duties and not any one employee’s action or inaction,” wrote Morganello.
“I am sorry it has come to this. but I don’t want our well respected Surfrider Chapter’s reputation to be tarnished with council members or island residents by having anyone thinking that we are doing something political, complaining, or making demands of the City of Folly Beach…Our officers and all of our volunteers love Folly Beach and want it to be in as best shape possible, as we do with regular beach and marsh sweeps, mutt-mitt dispensers, butt cannons for cigarette butt disposal and our monthly meetings, where we have guest speakers to educate meeting goers of local environmental concerns.”

Voicing councils’ gratitude towards Surfrider’s contributions, Hume said he hopes the city continues working closely with the organization. “I think it’s a shame that some grandstanding has put us at odds with the Surfriders, who have been very great for us and share our goals for the beach,” said Hume. “I would just like to at least make them realize that we love having ya’ll out here, and we don’t want to have this issue be an issue.”

Council unanimously agreed to return $2,000 to Surfrider’s Charleston Chapter.

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All members were present except Eddie Ellis.

Mayor Tim Goodwin pointed out that on September 23, Folly Beach celebrated its 38^th anniversary as a City.

NEW BUSINESS

Resolution No. R42-11. (Amends FY11-12 Budget by transferring $24,350 from various public safety accounts for the purchase of record management software.

Council member Pennell Clamp motioned to defer the resolution until after it could be discussed in a work session.

“This is just moving money around that’s already been approved, from point A to point B,” said Goodwin.

“I do realize the short term need to get this done, but we talked way in the beginning that we weren’t putting stuff on the agenda that we hadn’t discussed ahead of time. This is that. Rush, rush, rush,” said council member Paul Hume.

Goodwin explained that this resolution had been on the Sep. 13 agenda, and added that since council had voted to move the 911 dispatch center back to Folly Beach, “we’ve got to get moving.”

Council member Charlie McCarty voiced his opinion that with a discussion, the issue would be resolved.

“If we spend it, we need to talk about it,” added Clamp.

Council voted unanimously to suspend the resolution and discuss it at a 4 pm work session on September 27.

Council then went into Executive Session.

When they returned, they took up Resolution No. R44-11, approving a proposal for services from the James Island Public Service District (JIPSD). Small amendments were made in wording, and the resolution was approved unanimously.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:40 p.m.

West Cooper Playground Update

In the last issue of the Current, we reported that a vehicle had struck and destroyed the fence at the West Cooper Ave. playground. According to Public Safety, the incident occurred at about 2 a.m. on September 10, and Roy Thaddeus Stuckey was apprehended and charged the following day with leaving the scene of an accident.

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