Surprise Vote Halts Plans for New Elementary School and Athletic Fields in Florence
FLORENCE — In a surprising turn of events, plans for a new elementary school and a county athletic complex in Florence, South Carolina, were unexpectedly halted during the Florence County Council’s meeting on October 17. What many believed was a settled matter transformed into a contentious debate as council member Waymon Mumford, who initially supported the project, used a procedural tactic to revisit the proposal. This led to a narrow vote against the $50 million bond that would have funded the developments.
What Was at Stake?
The funding was intended to facilitate the construction of a new building for the Savannah Grove Elementary School, which is part of the Florence 1 Schools district. Additionally, plans included developing a county athletic complex featuring baseball fields and an indoor recreational facility on 30 acres in southern Florence. This bond was seen as a significant opportunity for both the school district and the county to better their respective facilities while addressing community needs.
Who Changed Their Mind?
In a surprising twist, Mumford joined fellow council members Kent Caudle, Roger Poston, Jason Springs, and Alphonso Bradley in opposing the project in the latest vote. Critics of the proposal, especially those who had never been in favor, argued that the maneuver raised legal and ethical questions, particularly concerning the preferential treatment of Florence 1 Schools over other school districts.
This development came as a disappointment to many community members and local leaders. Doris Lockhart, president of the Savannah Grove Community Action League, voiced her discontent, stating, “It’s disheartening. I think the community deserves collaboration between the county and the school district and other public entities.” Lockhart has tirelessly advocated for improvements to the Savannah Grove school facility, emphasizing that the community deserves the same opportunities as other areas of Florence County.
The Community’s Dream on Hold
Previously, County Administrator Kevin Yokim had expressed optimism about the proposed partnership, highlighting that it would benefit both the school district and the county. The school district aimed at expediting the replacement of Savannah Grove, which has long been slated for upgrades. The county would save time and resources by not needing to acquire additional land for the proposed athletic fields.
The bond, planned to be issued by Florence County, consisted of approximately $35 million designated for the school, with repayment arrangements made over 30 years. Critics, however, raised concerns over whether the project was too hastily arranged. Springs even questioned if the funding method circumvented state laws regarding debt limits for school districts.
A Shifting Landscape
Despite previously approving the bond on three occasions with a vote of 5 to 4, Mumford’s change of heart reopened the discussion. He later explained that the timing just didn’t seem right for this project, citing other commitments without elaborating on what those might be. The community and supporters of the Savannah Grove project, however, are left puzzled and awaiting answers.
Lockhart, while surprised by the council’s reversal, remains hopeful for a new Savannah Grove Elementary in the future. She believes that the community deserves clarity, especially considering the previous assurances given during the approval process.
Looking to the Future
As the dust settles from this contentious meeting, both the school district and county find themselves back at square one concerning their respective plans. Chairperson William Schofield expressed frustration about losing what he deemed a “creative, first-of-its-kind partnership,” and he worries that this setback could stifle future collaborative efforts.
The need for a new facility is pressing, especially with projections indicating a roughly 3% growth in Savannah Grove’s enrollment over the next decade. Community members and educators alike are concerned about the outdated facilities, including small classrooms and ongoing water issues at the current building.
As Florence navigates this unexpected development, local residents hope that council members will reconsider and explore paths that prioritize the educational needs and recreational opportunities of the community. “Our children deserve the best just like other parts of Florence County,” Lockhart asserted. The hope is that dialogue and collaboration will once again take the forefront in discussions surrounding necessary improvements for the community.
