Baymont Inn in Florence Shut Down Due to Safety Violations
Florence, S.C. is seeing some significant changes in its lodging scene, as the Baymont Inn motel on West Lucas Street has been shut down by the Florence County Department of Planning, Building, Engineering, Zoning, E-911 Addressing and Codes Enforcement. This decision came about following serious concerns regarding public safety and health, as noted by the Department’s Director, J. Shawn Brashear.
What Prompted the Shutdown?
The shutdown did not come without reason. Law enforcement officials raised red flags about conditions at the motel, prompting a thorough inspection. On September 23, staff from the West Florence Fire Department informed the motel management that an inspection would take place the next day. The following day, a team comprising members of the county’s planning department, along with fire department personnel and the Florence County Sheriff’s Office, moved in for an examination.
After their assessment, it was clear that the motel had numerous issues. Brashear detailed that there were “multiple violations throughout the complex that led to the closure,” indicating that the situation was quite serious. Among the notable problems identified were the troubling safety conditions, including a disturbing lack of operational smoke alarms and pervasive electrical issues, all worsened by concerns over general sanitation of the facilities.
Response from the Motel Management
The management of the Baymont Inn was reportedly informed about these violations. Over the past few days, the owner has been in contact with county officials and was made aware of the immediate need for improvements to ensure the safety of residents. However, according to Brashear, the owner indicated that there were challenges getting current occupants to vacate the premises, complicating the situation further.
On a more recent visit, officials, along with the sheriff’s office, returned to the Baymont Inn to place a notice on the property, signifying that occupancy was no longer permitted. They also personally reached out to residents to communicate the situation and encourage them to find alternative housing.
Community Concerns and Impact
Many in the community have expressed their concerns over the Baymont Inn’s recent history. Reports have surfaced regarding unfortunate incidents at the motel, including a recent shooting that left a woman injured, though thankfully, she is expected to recover.
One former resident of the motel shared her heart-wrenching experience of watching families, including women and children, hastily pack their belongings into their cars, many with nowhere else to turn. “It’s just sad,” she remarked. “People here were looking for a roof over their heads, and now they’re being forced out.”
Efforts are ongoing as the owner of the motel has reached out to officials to address the crucial concerns and consider the possibility of reopening in the future. However, for now, the Baymont Inn remains closed, leaving many residents in a precarious position as they search for new places to call home.
Looking Ahead
The Florence community is hopeful that solutions will soon be found for those displaced. As the owner works to remedy the violations and improve the conditions at the Baymont Inn, local authorities will continue to monitor the site closely to ensure public safety is prioritized.
