Council Recognizes Pharmacists Month and Red Ribbon Week, Approves FILOT Agreement with Meiden America

At Monday night’s Laurens County Council meeting, council members opened the evening by recognizing Pharmacists Month, honoring the vital role pharmacists play in community health care. Members of the Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy were in attendance to receive the award.

Council also proclaimed October 23–31, 2025, as Red Ribbon Week in Laurens County. This annual observance promotes substance abuse prevention and youth awareness efforts. Junior Marine Eli Stewart attended the meeting to accept the proclamation.

Board and Commission Appointments

Council approved several appointments to county boards, commissions, and committees:

• Agriculture Board: District 1 – Ellington Willis; District 3 – Dawn Glass

• Assessment Appeals Board: District 1 – Grant Rhodes; District 2 – Mike Armor; District 3 – Brenda Ligon

• PRT Board (Parks, Recreation & Tourism): District 6 – Harold Nichols

Economic Development: Meiden America Expansion

Council held a public hearing regarding a Fee-in-Lieu-of-Tax (FILOT) agreement with a company previously referred to as “Project Sora.” No members of the public came forward to speak, and the agreement was unanimously approved.

The company was revealed to be Meiden America Switch Gear Co., which plans a $9.25 million expansion that will bring 43 new jobs to Laurens County.

Executive Session

Council entered Executive Session to address three specific matters:

• To receive legal advice and discuss issues related to the employment and compensation of the County Administrator

• To discuss contractual arrangements for an interim Building Official and the employment and compensation of a Director of Building Codes

• To consider contract negotiations with TischlerBise, the firm proposed to conduct an impact fee study

Jerre Threatt has recently been announced as the new Laurens County Administrator, with his tenure beginning November 3. Read more about his background and appointment here.