The COVID-19 pandemic has prompted many changes to daily life, and just as many questions about what’s happening, why, and what will happen in the future. In the face of uncertainty, it’s easy to get the wrong information. Sumter Mayor Joseph T. McElveen addresses some of the most frequently asked questions and concerns: Q: How long will “social” or “physical distancing” guidelines remain in place...
As I write, Sumter now has 10 confirmed cases and one death related to the virus. My prayers and those of the Sumter community go out to those who are fighting to recover, and especially to the family of our neighbor who succumbed. Do not think that we “only” have 10; that’s just how many have been confirmed. We know COVID-19 is in our community; there are most probably people with the virus who...
I want to thank the citizens of Sumter who are taking the COVID-19 threat seriously. My heart and prayers go out to all who have contracted this virus and especially to those who have lost loved ones. People and pastors all over Sumter are vigorously praying for guidance, protection, and deliverance. As I said in a proclamation I issued on Thursday, we will have a day of thanksgiving when this...
MARCH 2020 COUNCIL HIGHLIGHTS: Council approved the transfer of property to the Sumter School District along Missouri Street and Boulevard Road. This property allowed Lemira Elementary to expand their park area and provide a safer buffer from surrounding properties and the school. City Council approved two annexation requests this month: Approximately 5.18 acres located at 1410 and 1420 US Hwy 15...
This month we wanted to share some highlights from 2019 year end report: 14 homeowners were given house rehab assistance. 59 dilapidated structures were demolished through our codes enforcement, these are always performed at the owners request and/or permission. Sumter Fire Department installed over 568 smoke detectors in residential homes. Project Checkmate, our senior citizen assistance program...
As we close out another year after a season of rejoicing and giving and enter a new year and a new decade, it is a good time to reflect on all of the blessings we in Sumter receive every day. Living in a place like Sumter is itself a blessing. Yet, just as all communities, we have people who are in need of help living in our midst. Sumter is blessed with many citizens who connect with our...
Council approved several resolutions for authorizing projects with City property: Repairing the elevator at Swan Lake Iris Gardens, which was damaged in the 2015 flood. Since that date we done small repairs when it would go down but we’ve waited until we could get full insurance reimbursement for the full replacement parts, which we have now received. Replacement of the sewer line along Mathis...
Council held four public hearings this month, to receive public comments on the following: To receive additional comments from the public regarding the expenditure of our annual Community Development Block Grant funds from the federal HUD program. The purpose of these funds is to improve neighborhoods and make life more livable for residents, especially those whose are considered low-moderate...
Council held three public hearings this month, to receive public comments on the following: The adoption of the Sumter 2040 Comprehensive Plan. The “Comp” Plan is the product of an extensive public process, and is intended to be an important tool for guiding growth and development in the Sumter community for the next 20 years. The purpose of this plan is to help the City of Sumter, its citizens...
Council held three public hearings this month, to receive public comments on the following: Rezoning a 3.27-acre parcel, located at 410 South Main Street from light industrial-warehouse to heavy industrial. To allow garment alteration and repair shops/tailor shops to locate within a professional office zoning district.¬ Council authorized a contract to Hawkins & Kolb Construction, of Sumter, for...