Open Government, Open Dialogue: Strengthening Public Input in Greenville County

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 2-9-25

A Father’s First Duty

Last week, I had to make an unexpected and urgent exit from our committee meeting—something I’ve never had to do before. In the middle of the session, I received a call no parent or husband ever wants: my wife explaining that my youngest son, Lincoln, was struggling to breathe and she was en route to the emergency room. At that moment, nothing else mattered. Like any father would, I dropped everything—including the gavel—and headed straight for the car.

I want to take a moment to sincerely thank Vice Chairman Rick Bradley for stepping in so seamlessly. Not only did he take over the remainder of the committee meeting, but he also presided over the full council session with steadiness and professionalism. I’m grateful for his leadership and the council’s understanding during such an urgent situation.

Lincoln received outstanding care at Prisma Health, and I couldn’t be more thankful for the doctors and nurses who acted so quickly. He tested positive for the flu, and given his past respiratory challenges, the end stage of it hit him particularly hard. But in true Lincoln fashion, he recovered and bounced back fast. By Saturday, he was already cleared to play in his YMCA basketball game—back to full speed as if nothing ever happened!

To all who reached out, offered prayers, and sent well wishes—thank you. Your support means the world to my family. I’m incredibly grateful for this community, not just as a public servant, but as a dad.

Now, let’s dive into this week’s updates!

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Upcoming County Meetings: February 10 - 14, 2025

County Council & Standing Committee Meetings

Tuesday, February 11

Committee of the Whole - Special Called Meeting | 5:00 PM

Location: 301 University Ridge, Committee Meeting Room

Livestream: Watch Here

• View the agenda: Committee of the Whole Agenda

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  Audit Ad Hoc Committee | 6:30 PM Location: 301 University Ridge, Committee Meeting Room

Livestream: Watch Here

• View the agenda: Audit Ad Hoc Committee Agenda

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Thursday, February 13

Public Communication Forum | 5:00 PM

Location: 301 University Ridge, Committee Meeting Room

Livestream: Watch Here

• Register to speak: Citizen Comments

• View the agenda: Public Communication Forum Agenda

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Potential Flooding Advisory for Greenville County: February 9–15, 2025

As we enter the week of February 9, 2025, Greenville County is expected to experience significant rainfall, which may lead to potential flooding in certain areas. Residents are advised to stay informed and take necessary precautions to ensure safety.

Flood Safety Precautions:

• Stay Informed: Monitor local news outlets and the National Weather Service for updates on weather conditions and potential flood warnings. Greenville County utilizes local radio stations (WFBC, WESC, WSSL) and television stations (WYFF, FOX Carolina) to disseminate flood warnings. Another excellent way to stay up to date on anything emergency related in Greenville County is visiting our emergency management website found HERE

• Avoid Flooded Areas: Do not walk or drive through flooded areas. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and one foot of water can sweep a vehicle away. Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. 

• Prepare Your Home: If you reside in a flood-prone area, consider elevating essential utilities such as the furnace, water heater, and electrical panel. Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into drains. Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage. 

• Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essentials such as non-perishable food, water, medications, important documents, flashlights, and batteries.

• Evacuation Plan: Develop a family evacuation plan, identifying safe routes from your home to higher ground. Ensure all family members are familiar with the plan.

After a Flood:

• Safety First: Avoid floodwaters, as they may be contaminated or electrically charged. Stay clear of downed power lines and report them to your power company. 

• Inspect Your Home: Use caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden structural damage. Stay out of any building surrounded by floodwaters.

• Clean and Disinfect: Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and other harmful chemicals.

By staying informed and taking proactive measures, we can work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our community during another period of potential flooding.

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Greenville County Council’s Push for Transparency & Public Input in New Rules

As we approach the Special Called Committee of the Whole meeting this Tuesday, Greenville County Council is set to finalize a series of amendments to its governing rules—changes that emphasize greater transparency and public engagement. This meeting is an important step in ensuring that our council operates in a way that fosters open dialogue and trust with the citizens we serve.

Among the key proposals are:

• New public input sessions to allow residents to speak on county matters, even if they are not currently on an agenda.

• Expanded opportunities for public comment before final votes, ensuring citizens can weigh in at multiple stages of the decision-making process.

• Earlier and more detailed agenda packet releases, so both the public and council members have more time to review issues before meetings.

However, it’s important to note that these and other remaining amendments are still up for debate. Nothing is set in stone yet, and that’s exactly what Tuesday’s meeting is for—to work through the details, consider different perspectives, and ensure that the final rules reflect the best interests of our community.

At our last Committee of the Whole meeting, we saw something that citizens have been asking for—real discussion, open debate, and a willingness to tackle issues head-on. Many who attended or listened online said it was one of the most productive council sessions they had ever witnessed. That’s the kind of government people want: one that isn’t afraid to deliberate in the open, to ask hard questions, and to consider all sides before making decisions.

That’s why I’m looking forward to this meeting—not just because it will establish the rules by which we will operate for the next two years, but because it is another opportunity to give the people of Greenville County what they have been asking for: level-headed, transparent debate among their elected representatives.

Looking Ahead: The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO)

While Tuesday’s meeting will focus on finalizing council rules, we also want to be mindful that the February 18th Committee of the Whole meeting will center on the next steps for addressing the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). This is a complex and highly consequential issue, and we want to ensure that Tuesday’s meeting remains focused on council rules so that we can give the UDO the time and attention it deserves.

As always, public participation remains essential. The decisions we make now will shape how we govern for the next two years and beyond. This council is committed to ensuring that transparency, accountability, and open debate are not just one-time events, but the standard for how we operate moving forward.

I encourage all residents to stay engaged, attend meetings, and be a part of the discussions that shape the future of Greenville County. Your voice matters, and this government belongs to you.

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From the Office of Communication Committee Chairman Frank Farmer: Public Communications Forum

I want to personally invite you to attend the upcoming Public Communication Forum on Thursday, February 13, 2025, at 5:00 PM in the Committee Meeting Room at 301 University Ridge, Greenville. This forum is a vital opportunity for you to voice your concerns, ask questions, and engage directly with county leadership about the issues that matter most to our community.

As your County Councilman, I believe that strong communities are built on open dialogue and active citizen participation. Whether you have thoughts on local policies, public safety, infrastructure, or any other topic, this forum is your chance to be heard.

How to Participate:

• Attend in person to share your comments with Council

• Register in advance for speaking time by visiting the Communications Committee Page

• Review the agenda ahead of time here

I encourage all citizens to take advantage of this opportunity to engage with local government. If you have any questions before the meeting, feel free to reach out to my office.

Contact Information:

Phone: 864-398-0880

Email: FFarmer@greenvillecounty.org

I look forward to seeing you there and hearing your thoughts.

Communications Committee Chairman - Frank Farmer

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Public Information Session on Potential Annexation of Paris Mountain Parcel for Hotel Development: POSTPONED Due to Overwhelming Interest

Due to the high number of people who had already confirmed attendance, the public information session originally scheduled for Monday, February 10, 2025, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Younts Conference Center (Shaw Hall) at Furman University has been postponed until a larger venue can be secured. They state that they are working to ensure that everyone who wishes to attend will have the opportunity to do so, and we will announce the new date, time, and location as soon as possible.

Until Then: Historical and Environmental Context of Paris Mountain

Paris Mountain is a site of significant historical and ecological importance. Originally inhabited by the Cherokee before European settlement, the mountain played a crucial role in Greenville’s early water system in the late 19th century. In the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) developed Paris Mountain State Park, constructing landmarks now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Currently, this property falls under Greenville County’s Environmentally Sensitive District - Paris Mountain (ESD-PM) zoning, which protects its unique topography, waterways, and plant life. However, annexation by Travelers Rest could alter these zoning protections, potentially leading to further commercial and high-density development.

Stay Informed & Help Spread the Word

With overwhelming community interest, it’s clear that people want a say in the future of Paris Mountain. To ensure that as many people as possible receive updates about the new date, time, and location, please share this newsletter widely.

I will provide updates as soon as new arrangements are confirmed. Thank you for your commitment to protecting and shaping the future of Travelers Rest, Paris Mountain, and Greenville County!

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Councilman’s Corner: The Importance of Public Input and How Citizens Can Truly Shape Greenville’s Future

Greenville County is one of the fastest-growing communities in South Carolina, which brings both opportunities and challenges. With so much change happening, it’s more important than ever for residents to be actively involved in shaping the policies and projects that will define our future. As your County Council Chairman, I want to emphasize how critical public input is in ensuring that local government truly represents the needs and priorities of the people.

County Council exists to serve the community, but we can only do that effectively when we hear directly from you. Whether it’s decisions about infrastructure, economic development, public safety, or land use, your voice matters. When residents engage in these discussions, it leads to better outcomes for everyone.

One of the most direct ways to be heard is by participating in public hearings and council meetings. These forums provide a space where residents can offer input on important issues like zoning changes, budget allocations, and new policies before they are finalized. Attending these meetings, signing up for public comment, and preparing a clear message can make a real impact. Even if you can’t attend in person, there are online options that make it easier to participate from home.

Beyond council meetings, there are plenty of other ways to stay involved. The county regularly conducts surveys and hosts virtual town halls to gather community feedback. Keeping an eye on these opportunities and sharing your thoughts ensures that decisions reflect the needs of the people who actually live here. Staying informed through official county channels, social media, and newsletters is also a great way to be proactive about upcoming issues.

Reaching out directly to your elected representatives is another powerful way to engage. Council members rely on resident input to guide decision-making, so whether it’s a concern about traffic congestion, a new development in your neighborhood, or how tax dollars are being spent, making your voice heard can influence policy. A quick email, phone call, or scheduled meeting with your district’s council representative can go a long way.

For those who want to be more involved in shaping policy, joining a board, commission, or advisory committee is a great option. Many of the county’s most important decisions are informed by citizen-led groups that focus on areas like transportation, economic development, and land use. These boards bring together a mix of experts and everyday residents who want to have a say in Greenville’s future. Even if you’re not ready to serve on one, attending meetings and learning about ongoing projects can give you insight into the decision-making process.

Community advocacy also plays a huge role in shaping local government priorities. When residents organize around important issues—whether it’s improving roads, protecting the environment, or enhancing public safety—it helps bring attention to these concerns. Collaborating with neighbors, circulating petitions, and attending budget hearings are all ways to make sure key issues stay at the forefront.

Public input isn’t just about influencing one decision—it shapes the entire approach to how local government operates. When people are engaged, County Council can better serve the community in a way that reflects its diverse needs.

That’s why I encourage every resident to take an active role in this process.

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With the anticipated weather conditions, including potential flooding, I urge everyone to stay informed and prioritize safety. Please monitor local weather updates and adhere to the recommended precautions to ensure the well-being of you and your loved ones.

May you all have a blessed and safe week ahead. I look forward to our continued collaboration in making Greenville County a thriving and connected community!