Clinton City Council Approves Budget, Annexations, and Proclamations at June 1 Meeting

The Clinton City Council met Monday evening, June 1, 2026, conducting a full slate of business that included final passage of the city’s new budget, several annexation ordinances, and a series of special proclamations.

Public Comment

The meeting opened with public comment, during which residents raised concerns about aging stormwater infrastructure following Memorial Day rains that produced flash flooding in parts of the city. Speakers urged the council to include stormwater drain repairs in the upcoming budget. A separate resident called on the council to develop a long-term road repair plan. Additionally, an advocate appeared on behalf of Michael Williams, encouraging the council to approve his promotion to full-time employee status, with housing provided at the new recreation complex as part of his compensation.

Proclamations

Council approved proclamations designating June as National Safety Month, June 27 as PTSD Awareness Day, and June 28 as Carolina Day in the City of Clinton. A request by Councilor Anita Williams for a Juneteenth proclamation was noted by Mayor Randall to be unnecessary given Juneteenth’s status as a national holiday. A proposed Pride Month declaration, raised by Councilor Walsh, was not brought to a vote.

City Budget

Council moved to the second reading of the new city budget. No members of the public came forward during the comment period. Councilor Williams raised questions about whether the budget includes a 2.63 percent cost-of-living increase applied uniformly across all employees, expressing concern that a flat percentage raise is inequitable for lower-wage workers. She also asked whether the new budget accounts for all needs related to the building adjacent to City Hall, referencing unexpected expenditures for police body cameras that arose after the prior year’s budget was finalized. Council confirmed that known needs are addressed, while acknowledging that equipment can break down or require unanticipated repairs. Councilor Walsh inquired about the state-mandated five-year property tax reassessment and was told a county meeting was scheduled to address the new figures, though the adopted budget would be based on current valuations. The budget passed on second reading with all council members voting in favor except Councilor Williams.

Rezoning

Council approved on second reading an ordinance amending the zoning designation of several properties totaling approximately 3.14 acres along Davidson Street, Campbell Street, and Musgrove Street to allow for new residential construction in that area. Councilor Williams voted against the measure after asking about plans for the rezoned parcels and being told the number of homes to be built had not yet been determined.

Annexations

Three annexation ordinances were approved unanimously on second reading. Two involved contiguous real property located northeast of Technology Way and Highway 72, and a third involved property at the intersection of Willard Road and Caldwell Street. Councilor Williams asked why the annexations were required and was told that existing ordinances mandate annexation for properties seeking city water and sewer service.

New Business

Council considered a proposal to relocate Michael Williams into housing at the recreation complex beginning in January 2027, with the arrangement structured as part of an employee compensation package. Councilor Williams asked who would be responsible for taxes and upkeep on the residence. Council noted the city owns the property and that the employee would be responsible only for utilities. The motion was tabled pending additional details.

Council also took up proposed amendments to the city’s policy on delayed utility payments and adjustments. As written, the changes would classify customers who receive a payment extension as late and still subject to a 10 percent late fee. Councilor Williams suggested reducing the number of allowable extensions from six to three per year as a compromise that would not penalize customers seeking an extension in good faith. After discussion, council voted unanimously against the amendments, indicating the matter would return with further information.

Executive Session

Council entered executive session to discuss contractual matters within the Administration Department, with possible action noted.

Council Comments

Following the return from executive session, council members offered comments and congratulations. Councilor Walsh recognized the Clinton High School Class of 2026, praising the decorum shown throughout graduation ceremonies, and also commended the school’s Science Olympiad Team for a recent trip to California. Councilman Smith and Councilman Kuykendall both congratulated the Red Devil Baseball Team on winning the state championship. Councilor Cogsdill offered praise for the city’s teams and community events. Councilor Williams recognized first responders and utility crews for their work during recent power outages and severe storms.