Emergency Safeguard Ordinance Passes First Reading at Laurens City Council Meeting

Council emphasizes ordinance is a precautionary measure, not a finding of wrongdoing

Laurens City Council voted Tuesday, December 23, 2025, to approve an emergency safeguard ordinance on first reading during a special called meeting, advancing a policy intended to establish investigative procedures, temporary financial safeguards, communication protocols, and continuity measures in the event of credible allegations against the mayor or senior appointed officials.

The meeting was convened for a limited purpose and included an executive session prior to council returning to public session. No votes or actions were taken during the executive session.

Council first addressed the consent agenda, which consisted solely of approval of the special called meeting agenda. A correction was made to reflect the proper meeting date of December 23, 2025, and the agenda was approved as amended.

Resolution Considered Prior to Ordinance

Under new business, council considered Resolution 12-22-2025, which generated discussion primarily around procedural and notice-related issues. Council members noted that multiple versions of documents had circulated ahead of the meeting, leading to confusion regarding which materials were properly noticed and available to the public.

City legal counsel advised council that the resolution itself did not carry independent legal authority and could not amend or impact an ordinance. Counsel further explained that a resolution cannot serve as a mechanism to make an ordinance effective and that its adoption would not have standalone legal effect under state law.

Following discussion and clarification, council approved Resolution 12-22-2025 by roll call vote, with four votes in favor and two opposed.

Emergency Safeguard Ordinance Approved on First Reading

Council then turned to Ordinance 12-22-25, an emergency ordinance establishing formal procedures to be followed if credible allegations arise involving the mayor or senior appointed officials. Council members repeatedly emphasized that the ordinance does not represent a determination of wrongdoing by any individual.

Instead, the ordinance was described as a safeguard policy designed to provide structure, clarity, and accountability if serious concerns were to arise in the future. During discussion, council members compared the policy to insurance—something put in place proactively to protect the city, its finances, and its operations, even if it is never needed.

According to discussion during the meeting, the goals of the ordinance include protecting public funds, ensuring continuity of city operations, and providing a clear, lawful process for handling sensitive matters. Council members stated their belief that having defined procedures in advance strengthens transparency, accountability, and public trust while preserving due process for all parties involved.

Mayor Nathan Senn did not participate in debate or voting on the ordinance, noting that it pertained directly to his office. During the meeting, the mayor stated that he had concerns regarding the legality of the ordinance based on guidance he said he received from legal counsel. He indicated that, according to that advice, existing mechanisms are already in place to address potential issues and cautioned that the ordinance could raise questions about authority and process.

The ordinance passed on first reading by roll call vote. Council members Whitmire, Campbell, Sullivan, and Miller voted in favor of the measure. Councilor Bolt cast the sole vote against the ordinance. Mayor Senn did not vote, citing the ordinance’s direct application to the mayor’s office.

What “First Reading” Means

Approval on first reading represents an initial vote by council. The ordinance is not yet final and must receive a second reading and final approval at a future council meeting before it can take effect.

Following completion of the agenda items, council approved a motion to adjourn. The special called meeting concluded with no additional action taken.

Editor’s Clarification: This article reflects discussion and actions taken during the Laurens City Council special called meeting on December 23, 2025. The full meeting is available for public viewing via the City of Laurens’ official YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yH5pPJKvFI8