Kershaw gets $1 million check

S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority grants will fund projects at Haile Gold Mine

KERSHAW COUNTY, SC – S.C. Sen. Vincent Sheheen (D-27) presented a $1 million check to Kershaw officials Wednesday, July 22, for infrastructure projects at Haile Gold Mine.

The two combined grants were given from the S.C. Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA), Sheheen said.

“That is the only place South Carolina can receive funds for help in rural South Carolina,” he said.

Sheheen said Kershaw deserved the financial assistance, which helps rural communities invest in water, wastewater and storm water improvements.

“This town council has worked very hard and this group here made it happen,” he said. “They’re good stewards.”

Kershaw Mayor Wayne Rhodes said he appreciated  the assistance of Sheheen and Rep. Mandy Powers Norrell, (D-44), who also serves as town attorney.

“Vincent and Mandy are always ready when we call them to work on our behalf,” he said.

Norrell said she has no doubt the town will use the money efficiently.

Kershaw Town Councilman Wade Hunter expressed his pleasant surprise at receiving the check.

“I never thought this would happen,” he said. “I didn’t realize this money would be available.”

Hunter said the $1 million is earmarked for projects at Haile Gold Mine that will bring jobs to the area, which, in turn, helps local residents secure local employment.

“It will provide jobs so people won’t have to go out of town,” he said.

The mayor agreed.

“There are jobs coming and with jobs come more money into town,” Rhodes said. “We’ve waited this thing out for eight years.”