It has been a busy time with holiday gatherings this past week, including the Chapin Chamber’s annual Christmas drop-in and the Core Technology Solutions reception. I also attended the American Legion Post 193’s Christmas party at Timberlake where I was able to share with them the artwork for the sign that will go up on Columbia Avenue in recognition of the world champion Chapin-Newberry American Legion Baseball Team. Needless to say they were thrilled, and that will be another source of pride we can enjoy in Chapin.

This past week, I have been working closely with the team at Town Hall in preparation for Friday’s final council meeting of the year. We will have a public hearing on the proposed 2016 budget and amendments to the town’s business license ordinance beginning at 3:00 pm in council chambers. Then immediately following the public hearing we will have our rescheduled regular council meeting, where I anticipate we will pass the budget so we can start 2016 with a focus on doing what is best for our citizens and business community.

We have been busy working on infrastructure issues as well. We have submitted a grant request for C-funds from Lexington County to extend our sidewalks on Columbia Avenue from the old Community Theatre up NW Columbia Avenue to Town Hall. In addition, Chris Clauson will be attending a workshop next month as part of our effort to secure grant funding to complete sidewalks along Old Lexington Avenue to Crooked Creek Park. We know that improving the walkability of our town and enhancing the safety of pedestrians are important quality of life issues that we committed to supporting.

Last week we filed a claim with FEMA to reimburse the town for its expenses and labor related to responding to issues that arose as a result of the historic flooding that occurred in October. We anticipate receiving roughly $20,000 for that claim.

I have received several compliments on our town Christmas card which had more signatures than last year’s card. Our team at Town Hall is a group of highly qualified and dedicated professionals that are committed to doing what is best for our community. I am honored to work alongside these folks and am proud of what they do for our town.

Together We Stand – Chapin Proud!
Mayor Skip Wilson