WINNSBORO – Two seats in the Town of Winnsboro Town Council race are up for re-election on April 2, and one of those seats is contested.
Incumbent Clyde Sanders (District 3) is opposed by political newcomer Demetrius Chatman who says he wants to be a leader for progressive change.
Sanders, who has served two terms on Council, is a lifelong resident of the town. He is well-known locally as a singer/songwriter.
Sanders and his Reunion Bande frequently perform for local festivals and released a new CD last year titled ‘Tranquil Bay,’ produced for Patman and Robin Records. To promote the CD, Sanders and the band’s bass player, Tim Boulware, were invited to Ocean Drive Beach in Myrtle Beach to perform a song from the CD titled, ‘I Wanna Dance,’ written by Sanders.
Chatman, 33, also a native of Winnsboro, holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from South Carolina State University and an MBA from Webster University. He currently works at the University as a program manager for Title III, a federal grant program.
“I graduated from Fairfield Central High School where I was a member of the band and student government. I was into academics,” Chatman said. He is also a graduate of Leadership Columbia.
“I love Winnsboro and that’s why I need to get in the race and make things happen,” he said.
Unopposed in District 1, incumbent Danny Miller said he has served the Winnsboro Town Council for 24 years and hopes to serve four more.
Miller said he feels the secret to his success as a Councilman is his community service.
“I just enjoy working with people and being their voice. I do it out of love and kindness,” he said.
Miller grew up in the Zion Hill section of the town, and he said his family roots run deep in Winnsboro.
But Miller said this is likely his last run.
“I was first elected when Quay McMaster was mayor and now under Mayor Gaddy,” Miller said. He speaks highly of both. “We have benefitted from a lot of things they’ve done for the town. A lot of good things have been done.”
“I’m just happy to have been part of the team for all these years,” Miller said.
The following precinct and polling places will be open on Election Day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
South Winnsboro Precinct, Community Volunteer Fire Dept., 110 Winter Street
Winnsboro No. 1 Precinct, Town of Winnsboro Fire Dept., 117 W. Washington Street
Winnsboro No. 2 Precinct, Town Clock, Washington Street and Congress Street
Ballots will be certified on Thursday, April 4, at 10 a.m. at the Fairfield County Election Commission.
