OCC wraps up two development projects

Months and years of work to pull off a pair of separate economic development projects were realized during last night’s meeting of Oconee County Council. By approving five agreements, the council gave final reading to leasing the former courthouse to developers who have plans to adapt to a hotel and other businesses. According to County Administrator Scott Moulder, the wording is such that the developers will be able to obtain an insurance policy protecting their financial investment. After the approval votes, Chairman Joel Thrift cautioned county leaders to never again allow one of its old assets to deteriorate. Thrift said the county was at fault for failing to maintain the building once it was vacated for the adjacent new courthouse. The council last night also gave final OK to an infrastructure tax credit that allows a small but unique high-speed data center to open in Oconee County. Richard Ellison of Technology Solutions thanked the council and said his business, the first of its kind in South Carolina, will start with seven employees.