The Severy City Council meets monthly on the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. The following report was generated from the approved minutes of the Sept. 10 meeting minutes, which were approved at a recent meeting.
The Severy City Council held a Special Business Meeting prior to their regular meeting on Sept. 10 at 6:45 p.m. Council members Lyle Riggs, Ron Robert and Bryan Hampton were present along with Clerk Tessa Riggs, Treasurer Madelyn McClendon, Water Superintendent Paul Schmidt and City Attorney William McClendon.
Discussion was held regarding the Revenue Neutral Rate (RNR) and property tax evaluations. Councilman L. Riggs explained that even though property tax evaluations had decreased, the RNR had to be increased to maintain the same amount of revenue coming in for the city to meet its financial obligations. After discussion, the council approved to adopt Resolution 2026-02 for the RNR with a roll call vote and to approve the 2027 Budget.
The regular meeting of the Severy City Council was called to order at 7 p.m. The August minutes, bills and treasurer’s report were approved.
Resident Christina Eatherly expressed concerns to the council regarding the culvert that was installed on West Market Street last year. She noted that, due to the weight restriction on the culvert, her husband has to back down the street to their yard in a loaded semi. Eatherly also asked the council if her water meter could be moved to a different location in her yard. She asked the council, if her husband isn’t allowed to drive over the bridge and the meter can’t be moved, that the 4 acres south of her house be annexed out of the city limits so her husband can use the county road and park in their back yard. City Attorney W. McClendon stated the city is not going to start allowing citizens to be annexed out of the city limits. Water Superintendent Schmidt informed the council that it would take considerable work to move the water meter and would likely require it to be moved across the street, noting the city would probably not be in favor of covering the cost. It was noted that Clerk T. Riggs would check the weight limit of the culvert and get back with Eatherly.
Water Superintendent Schmidt gave his report. Schmidt was questioned about the Salt Creek Pump. He noted that he plans to have it completed by Oct. 31. Once repairs have been completed, a sample will need sent to the state. Schmidt also informed the council that the dump truck used for burials at the cemetery is down and will need repairs.
In Old Business, Clerk T. Riggs presented a quote for $3,157.50 from Tracy Electric for installation of a separate outlet in the office for the air conditioner. The council recommended getting other quotes.
Clerk T. Riggs reported to the council that the Greenwood County Commissioners approved to allow a 20’ diameter roundabout. T. Riggs noted that the roundabout is completed and signs and reflectors have been added.
Concerns were brought to the council from Clerk T. Riggs regarding the Waste Connections contract and rate increases. T. Riggs noted that Waste Connections raised rates 4% in July 2025 and again in July 2026 that was absorbed by the city. Councilman L. Riggs stated that, in his opinion, the city should pass any increases on to the customers. He also noted that making small yearly adjustments would help prevent the city from having to make large increases in the future. After discussion, the council approved to raise trash rates 12% in January 2027 and another 4% in January 2028 in accordance to the contract.
In New Business, Clerk T. Riggs mentioned to the council that a representative with Midwest Assistance Program will be attending the October meeting regarding water rates. T. Riggs reported that she submitted $17,443.90 in delinquent utility bills and yards that the city has mowed in 2026 to the Greenwood County Clerk’s office to be assessed as a special tax assessment to the customer’s property taxes. She also noted that there will not be another roll off dumpster until Spring 2027.
The council approved to retain Jarred, Gilmore and Phillips, PA for future audit and budgeting services and to set the physical address for a vacant lot for utility services at 215 S. Hobart Ave.
The council held two executive sessions for non-elected personnel for employee performance. No decisions were made after returning to open meeting.
The council also met on Monday, Oct. 5. Their next meeting is slated for Monday, Nov. 2, at 7 p.m. at the city office.
