Hello Simpsonville residents!  I hope you all are doing well and enjoying your summer!  I wanted to check in with you and update you on some things that are happening in the city.

My last article, I wrote about the upcoming streetscapes that are scheduled.  At that time, it was coming soon.  As I speak now, the same is true. We are all just waiting for SCDOT to schedule this with the city.  As this gets more concrete, no pun intended, I will let you know.

Another issue we are facing is the sale of the old City Hall property.  As many of you know, this property was sold 4-5 years ago by the previous Council to a developer.  This process revealed a possible issue with the agreement.  We have involved our city attorney and are doing our due diligence as a Council on this matter. 

As many of you know, our city administrator has resigned and a new city administrator, Tee Coker, has filled this position.  Tee has held multiple positions with the County and is expected to contribute to the city's future streetscape project.   We do have a Financial Director position open as well, if anyone would like to apply, please go to the city’s website.

The council is reviewing proposed ordinances related to both short-term and long-term rentals.   There are currently no guidelines, nor does this require a business license, nor are there taxes paid for these rentals.  The Council has requested a proposal from the Planning Commission for review in the coming months.   We had a few citizens show up at our last Council meeting and shared useful information for us to think about.  If you have any feedback on this topic, please let me know.  

As we reflect on the July 4th weekend, consider this key point I often shared with my history students.   Declaring independence did not guarantee our forefathers true independence.  They had to go out and earn that.  Many died in that fight, for you and for me, and because of that we have the freedoms we appreciate today.  No, America isn’t perfect, but it’s the best country in the world!  So, enjoy your family, enjoy fireworks, but remember, your freedom wasn’t free.  God bless!

Aaron Rupe
Ward 2 Councilman

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