February 2021 Council Highlights

  • COVID-19 updates:
    • The COVID-19 mask mandate remains in effect for the City of Sumter. More info and updates on our website at www.sumtersc.gov.
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    • Shaw AFB has updated their COVID-19 restrictions where 20 FW military personnel are now PERMITTED to patronize restaurants off-base and sit indoors provided the facility has instituted reduced indoor capacity to permit seating six feet apart, the facility has a mask mandate for both employees and patrons, and 20 FW uniformed personnel remain masked except for the brief periods of time when eating or drinking. Six foot social distancing requirements must be followed except when dining with persons in the members immediate household.
 
  • The City of Sumter has been recognized among best in the United States based on outstanding traveler reviews. Swan Lake Iris Gardens has been recognized as a Travelers’ Choice award-winner for 2020. Based on a full year of Tripadvisor reviews, prior to any changes caused by the pandemic, award winners are known for consistently receiving great traveler/diner feedback, placing them in the top 10% of hospitality businesses around the globe.  For more info on Swan Lake Iris Gardens visit www.swanlakeirisgardens.com. 

 

  • The Bradford Pear Bounty is coming to Sumter! Bradford pears are not native to the U.S. and have been widely planted in South Carolina for years. While the blossoms are pretty, they have a pungent odor, and the trees often break during storms. Even worse, Bradford pear trees directly contribute to one of the worst invasive plant species in the Southeast – the callery pear. This program will give homeowners the option to remove Bradford pears and replace them with native trees. The exchange will be held in Sumter Feb. 27 from 9 a.m.-noon. This event is supported by Clemson Extension, City of Sumter, City of Clemson Parks & Recreation, South Carolina Forestry Commission and Duke Energy. For more information on the locations, how the exchange works and how to register, visit https://www.clemson.edu/extension/bradford-pear/index.html 
 
  • Central Carolina Community Foundation is accepting 2021 scholarship applications! There is more than $500,000 available to high school seniors and college students, but you must apply by March 5, 2021. For more information and the application visit, www.yourfoundation.org. 
    • In addition, for military dependents, the Shaw Spouse’s Club is accepting applications for their 2021-222 scholarship program. Their funds cover, high school seniors, collete-age dependents, military spouses and even cover Masters programs. Applications accepted through March 15 at www.ShawSpousesClub.com 
 
  • Do you want to know more of what is happening in our state capital. Join the Greater Sumter Chamber of Commerce on the  first Friday in March for a special breakfast series at the North HOPE Center. March will feature Senator Thomas McElveen. Senator McElveen will be discussing the current slate of state priorities as well as proposed bills that could effect the Sumter community. Register on the chambers website www.sumterchamber.com or by calling their office 775-1231.
 
  • Litter affects us all. And it reflects on us as a community. Help keep Sumter beautiful by putting your trash in its place. Learn more about our ongoing community-wide litter cleanup efforts, volunteer to help or report litter or illegal dumping in the city by visiting our website at www.sumtersc.gov/litter.
 
  • We want to encourage all of our citizens to come out and enjoy organized programming at the Palmetto Tennis Center! Free recreational play on 24 Hard Courts is available. Players must check-in for court assignments and time limits apply.  COVID-19 standard safety measures must be followed. More details and registration available online at www.sumtertennis.com.