Clinton City Council Holds Strategic Planning Work Session

On Wednesday, August 20, the City of Clinton held a special strategic work session to begin shaping a long-term vision for the community.

City Manager Joey Meadors opened the meeting by noting that Clinton has not developed a strategic plan since 2010. He then introduced Charlie Barrineau, a field representative with the South Carolina Municipal Association, who facilitated the discussion.

Barrineau outlined examples of how other municipalities have used strategic planning to guide growth. He emphasized the importance of balancing big goals with realistic expectations. “It’s fine to have high aspirations,” he said, pointing to Greenwood’s plan to expand small business recruitment alongside ambitions to attract major retailers such as Target and Olive Garden. In those cases, Barrineau explained, market assessments revealed whether the ideas were achievable.

Council members were encouraged to brainstorm freely and write down any ideas to improve Clinton, generate revenue, and shape the city’s future—no matter how ambitious. Suggestions ranged from developing a downtown master plan and organizing road trips to see how other towns implement ideas, to improving the city’s website for greater transparency and incorporating more diverse types of music at community events. Some ideas even included showcasing personal photos of city employees as part of strengthening local connection.

Councilwoman Anita Williams raised several points of concern. She questioned whether discussions of this nature should take place during regular council meetings instead of requiring special-called sessions. She also highlighted the many volunteers who serve on city boards and committees without receiving adequate recognition, and shared her perspective that Clinton’s events should feature music that appeals to younger audiences.

The session concluded with council members scoring priority issues for the city. Those results will be shared with department heads as Clinton works to create a unified strategic plan and collective vision for the future.