WINSBORO – The Fairfield Joint Water and Sewer System Commission met Tuesday to swear in new members to the commission and elect new officers.
“It makes sense for a politician to be chairman,” the commission’s attorney, CD Rhodes said, “It also makes sense for the town manager to be treasurer, because in the coming months for the build out of the new wastewater treatment plant, we will be in a boots on the ground position.”
“I can’t overstate how important this commission is,” Winnsboro Town Manager Jason Taylor told The Voice following the meeting. “This commission exists to provide a rational delivery of utility services to the county to promote residential, commercial and industrial growth.” We’ve got to be able to provide utilities in a way that is efficient and effective in order to attract growth. Being a member of a joint water authority like this one makes it easier for smaller systems to maintain and grow themselves. And, right now,” Taylor said, “our focus is on getting the new wastewater treatment going.”
McMeekin was elected chairman of the newly seated FJWSS board; Fairfield County Council Chairman Douglas Pauley was elected vice chairman, and Taylor was elected treasurer. Kyle Crager, who was re-elected as citizen at large, joined the meeting electronically. Patti Davis, assistant to Taylor, will continue to serve as secretary to the commission. Absent from the meeting was Ridgeway Town Councilman Donald Prioleau and Ridgeway Utility Director Robert Arndt.
In other business: The commission authorized McMeekin and Taylor to seek out directors and officers insurance for the board.
Rhodes presented a meeting schedule for the year and suggested two meetings each in February and March as he said there will be a lot of business matters to attend to.
Members will coordinate with secretary Patti Davis on availability for the special called meetings. The press and public will be notified of the special called meetings when the agendas go out. The calendar includes meetings for: Feb. 28, March 28, April 25, May 9, June 27, July 25, Aug. 22, Sept., 26, Oct. 24, Nov. 28, and Dec. to be determined.
