Williamsburg County Council approved an updated transit equity plan, advanced an airport hangar lease ordinance and authorized legal representation related to a lawsuit during its March 2 meeting, while also hearing a funding request from a local nonprofit organization.
Council approved the second reading of Ordinance 2026-01, which addresses lease agreements for box hangars and Hangar Three at Williamsburg County Airport. No other ordinances were presented for first or third readings during the meeting.
Council members also unanimously approved an updated Title VI plan for Williamsburg County Transit. Transit Director Alisha Wigfall said the update is required every three years to remain compliant with federal regulations and maintain funding through the South Carolina Department of Transportation.
The plan updates a version adopted in March 2019 and outlines policies designed to prevent discrimination based on race, color or national origin in federally funded programs. It includes procedures for filing discrimination complaints, a public participation strategy and a language assistance plan to help residents with limited English proficiency. Notices about Title VI protections are posted on transit vehicles, at the administrative building and on the transit website.
Council also heard a funding request from Mary’s Angels Independent Living. President and CEO Juantia Green said the organization has served more than 2,000 individuals and families over the past 19 years through housing assistance, homelessness services and youth programs.
Green said the nonprofit previously provided eviction prevention assistance for rent and mortgages, as well as temporary housing support for homeless residents, including placements at local hotels before funding ran out.
She said the organization is now developing a Male One-on-One Youth and Family Community Center expected to serve between 45 and 70 youth and families. Planned services include literacy support, job readiness training, health and mental health resources, and substance abuse assistance, along with after-school and summer reading programs.
Green asked the council to consider financial support after several funding streams ended. Council members thanked the organization for its work and said the county clerk will follow up. Some members also expressed interest in touring the facility. No funding decision was made.
Council entered executive session to receive legal advice regarding a pending claim.
After returning to open session, council unanimously approved an engagement letter with the law firm Hainsworth Sinkler & Boyd to represent attorney Mandy Shuler and the Williamsburg County Development Board in a lawsuit filed by Lathonia Bennett.
County Supervisor Kelvin Washington reported progress on projects funded through the capital project sales tax approved by voters in November. He said the county has ordered new 800-megahertz radios for public safety officers, with a possible equipment demonstration planned at a future meeting.
The next county council meeting is scheduled for March 17, with a public hearing at 5:45 p.m. followed by the regular meeting. Council adjourned after completing the agenda.
