County Council takes a swing at the issues

Two major issues before Oconee County Council were tabled last night. The council referred a third issue to one of its standing committees. But not before lengthy consideration of one of the more divisive issues at county level in several months. The council held off a final vote on an ordinance to cover county workers engaged in official duty who are sued. County Attorney Tom Martin drafted the ordinance after a threat by Journal newspaper to have its lawyers sue four county officials. Martin last night read a South Carolina Attorney’s General opinion that upheld the legality of the ordinance, although it suggested changes. And its those changes that the council directed Martin to make before taking third and final reading. Not only was there a lot discussion by council, but by Oconee County residents. In last night’s spirited public comment session, the number of those opposed to the ordinance was nearly matched by those in favor. The council also tabled committing funds to extend passenger bus service to Walhalla and Westminster until it determines whether Seneca would be willing to arrange test runs to determine if there would be enough riders to make the venture worthwhile. And business John Powell, unable to secure the money needed to build the Courthouse Inn, announced he and his partner are giving up their lease of the old courthouse, though he said he hoped the council will keep a door open if the money comes through. The council decided to throw a committee at what to do about the old courthouse. A meeting of the county’s real estate and facilities committee will consider inviting other proposals. County Administrator Scott Moulder suggested the county invest in restoring the old building to a new use.