Laurens City Council Recap: $350 Million Suniva Investment, Community Events, and Council Actions from April 21 Meeting
April 22, 2026
The Laurens City Council met on April 21, opening with remarks from Nathan Senn, who thanked residents and staff for their participation in the recent State of the City event and their continued efforts to improve the community.
Mayor Senn also shared what he described as significant economic news: Suniva, located in Hunter Industrial Park, is planning a $350 million investment that is expected to bring 564 new jobs to the area. He also noted the success of the recent Steam on the Square event.
Residents were reminded that the city is currently accepting applications for various boards and commissions. The mayor highlighted several upcoming initiatives and events, including the city’s Clean Up Crackdown, which began April 1 and runs through June 30. During this period, property maintenance tickets will be suspended to encourage voluntary cleanup efforts.
“Please let us know if you have a particular challenge with clean up that we can help you with—we are here to help,” said Senn.
A number of community events were also announced. On April 22, Capitol Theatre will host a concert featuring Todd Albright and Arthur Terembula, kicking off the Laurens Blues and Roots Concert Series. The theatre will also show the film Hook on April 24 at 6:00 p.m.
On April 23, city staff, along with local service groups and volunteers, will participate in a workday at Little River Park beginning at 8:00 a.m. Planned activities include painting, raking, spreading mulch, and general park improvements.
Also on April 24, the Finally Friday event will feature a Sip and Stroll along Main Street from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.
Looking ahead, a budget workshop is scheduled for April 28. Mayor Senn noted that council has received numerous funding requests and emphasized that each will be carefully considered.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for April 30 at 10:00 a.m. for Wattsville Scoops and Dogs, located at the former Wattsville Pharmacy site.
In early May, the city will host a dedication and designation ceremony for the fire department’s new truck on May 4, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m. at the Laurens Public Square Plaza. The event coincides with National Firefighter Day and will honor firefighters across the country. Seating will be limited, and attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs.
In council action, no public comments were made during a hearing on a proposed zoning amendment for 1025 W. Main Street. The request—recommended by the planning commission—would rezone the property from a neighborhood commercial district to a suburban district. The ordinance passed unanimously on second reading.
Council also approved a resolution appointing Michanna Tate to the Board of Zoning Appeals. The item had been tabled at a previous meeting. During discussion, Councilor Alicia Sullivan requested that it be tabled again, but procedural rules did not allow for further delay.
Following extended discussion, Councilor Sullivan successfully initiated the process for a new ordinance that would establish a designated council comment period during meetings.
