Clinton City Council Addresses Public Concerns, Honors Community Leaders, and Hears Economic Update at March Meeting
March 4, 2026
Clinton City Council met Monday evening, March 3, opening the session with public comments before moving through a full agenda that included proclamations, school enrollment data, economic development updates, and recognitions of outstanding city employees.
Public Comments Address Immigration Agreement Concerns
The first speaker during public comments was Vic MacDonald of the Clinton Chronicle. MacDonald referenced a report alleging that the Clinton Police Department entered into an agreement of support with the Federal Immigration and Enforcement Agency on January 26.
Although council made clear that the public comment portion was not a question-and-answer session, MacDonald asked whether the matter under discussion in executive session related to an intergovernmental agreement with federal immigration authorities. He urged council to discuss the matter in open session and expressed concerns regarding transparency and compliance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act.
Henry Jones of the National Veterans Agriculture Association followed, thanking the City of Clinton for its support of the organization’s grant program last year.
“We were able to replace our pallets and our irrigation system. We built new racks and are going to have an overhead system for our greenhouses for our starts this year,” Jones said. “I wanted to take the time and come and say thank you for your support last year.”
Diane Byrd Anderson also addressed council, urging members to oppose any contractual agreement or policy that could negatively impact citizens’ quality of life, including the potential construction of a facility or detention center in partnership with the federal government.
March Recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Council approved a proclamation declaring March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the City of Clinton.
Ms. Tara Glenn, Director of The Laurens County Disabilities and Special Needs Board, addressed council alongside Executive Director Jason Taverner.
Taverner shared that the organization currently supports approximately 600 individuals in the community with a staff of about 200 employees. He also recognized the unpaid caregivers and families who support their loved ones daily.
Taverner announced that the organization will be transitioning to a new name — Pathwise — emphasizing that the rebranding reflects growth and expanded independent support services, not a change in mission. He also noted that an early intervention group is being added.
District 56 Reports Enrollment Trends
Josie Kate Haupfear, Director of Secondary Education for Clinton School District 56, presented a report on school capacity and enrollment trends.
Haupfear reported a continued decline in enrollment since 2008. Current enrollment stands at 2,659 students compared to approximately 3,300 students in 2008 — a decrease of 655 students.
At Clinton High School, she noted the ideal capacity is approximately 1,400 students, while current enrollment is 782. Eastside Elementary has some additional capacity available.
Regarding class size, Haupfear said the state limit is 30 students per classroom, though the district aims for one teacher per 25 students. She confirmed that all teachers are certified.
When asked about future subdivisions and school choice flexibility, Haupfear stated that each situation would be evaluated individually and noted that Thornwell Charter School has reduced District 56 enrollment only slightly.
Officer and Employee of the Year Recognized
Council recognized Clinton Police Officer of the Year and 2026 Employee of the Year, Sgt. Jessica Fowler.
Mayor Randy Randall praised Fowler’s service, stating, “This is a tremendous honor and a true reflection of her dedication, professionalism, and commitment to service. We are incredibly proud of Sgt. Fowler and grateful for the impact she continues to have on our department and our community.”
Upstate Alliance Shares Regional Economic Outlook
President and CEO John Lummus of the Upstate Alliance addressed council regarding regional economic development efforts.
Founded in 2000, the Upstate Alliance represents 10 counties in northwest South Carolina and works in partnership with local economic developers, investor organizations, and the South Carolina Department of Commerce to attract global business investment and talent to the region.
Lummus shared that in 2025, the Upstate region added $7.6 billion in new capital investment and 5,000 new jobs. Laurens County celebrated five project announcements totaling $125 million and 250 jobs created. Already in 2026, $165 million in capital investment and 209 new jobs have been announced in the region, including projects within the City of Clinton.
Between 2020 and 2024, the Upstate region grew by 10 percent. Laurens County grew by 4.5 percent, while Clinton experienced 2.9 percent growth.
Lummus emphasized that workforce availability remains the top factor companies consider when locating in the region. Housing availability, particularly affordable housing, has emerged as one of the most pressing economic development challenges.
“A successful workforce needs a wide range of quality housing options,” Lummus said, noting that companies and site consultants consistently evaluate housing growth and availability when considering investment.
He also added that major retailers and restaurants often review “rooftop numbers” — population density — when determining potential locations.
Zoning and Ordinance Actions
Council approved 1st reading of an ordinance to amend the sub divisions regulations in regards to approval of roads taken into the city’s road inventory from subdivisions. This amendment will require a 3rd party engineers inspection and approval of the road construction before acceptance.
