A Walhalla-Oconee County consolidation

Walhalla has taken a decision to consolidate its building codes office with that of Oconee County. Mayor Danny Edwards calls it a money-saving move and insists it has nothing to with the recent controversy over a staff decision to deny a zoning variance to remodel the Keowee Courier building. According to Edwards, John DiIonno, who had held the dual role of building and zoning administrator, is no longer with the city. Under the new arrangement, those applying for city building permits should first go to City Hall. After that, they’ll be asked to make a second stop at the county building codes department on S. Pine Street. And, for the time being, city administrator Nancy Goehle will act as the point-person for zoning matters.