Council discusses public safety improvements and analysis of fire district growth since 2016

At its July 13 meeting the Aiken City Council unanimously approved a consent agenda (two annexations and a stormwater code amendment), rezoned property on Rudy Mason Parkway to general business, approved annexation and concept plan for 877 Dougherty Road, and advanced several first readings including an economic incentive and property-transfer measures.

On first reading the council approved an amended concept plan for a 16.21-acre planned residential site at Sunday Avenue NE and Jake Place proposing 168 workforce housing units; council asked staff to add income-band language and an exhibit describing AMI percentages before second reading.

Council took first readings to set the millage at 60 mills, consider an 8% water and sewer rate increase, adjust the stormwater fee, and approve first reading of the FY2026–27 budget (staff said the budget balances at the proposed rate and includes a 4% employee pay package).

On first reading the council approved a FY2025–26 budget amendment reallocating $200,000 to cover legal-fee payments for plaintiffs in Blake et al. v. City of Aiken, $85,000 to repay an SBA balance for the Center of African American History, Arts, and Culture, $182,284 from the state opioid settlement to local treatment providers, and a $40,000 grant match for historic-preservation work.

City staff and the project manager told the Aiken City Council that Phase 1 of Tribute Parkway is roughly 60% complete with stormwater ponds nearly finished and an August 2026 wrap‑up targeted; Phase 2 timing depends on SCDOT approvals and right‑of‑way work. Funding sources reported include CPST, the Transportation Infrastructure Bank and an $8 million FHWA award.

Council approved a slate of second‑reading ordinances and resolutions, including consent‑agenda annexations, a lease modification at the Aiken Regional Airport, budget amendments to buy parking adjacent to the Center for African American History, a grant acceptance for a historic resource survey, and several first readings. One controversial item (

General fund surplus reported as FEMA reimbursements for Hurricane Helene responses are pending.

Doctor Rose Hayes voices concerns about traffic safety during public comment at Aiken meeting

Aiken officials discuss safety and support strategies amid increased pedestrian traffic and overdoses.

Council unanimously authorizes entering opioid settlement with Purdue and Sackler family.

Council unanimously approves annexations and zoning changes for several properties in Pinehurst area.

City Council approves Roscoe's appointment to the Planning Commission with unanimous support.