Development News for Clemson, South Carolina

Clemson City Explains Debt Strategy and Utility Fees Amidst Budget Discussions

During the budget discussion, a resident questioned the city's debt, particularly in light of student housing fees. City staff explained that debt is necessary to undertake major projects, allowing current users to pay for what they use over time rather than burdening current citizens with the full cost of projects they may not benefit from. Specifically, the sewer treatment plant upgrade involved significant borrowing, with a $30 million portion related to projects funded by 2025 bonds and approximately $20 million for the sewer treatment plant itself. The resident also inquired about a proposed $1 paper statement fee, which was clarified as a fee for opting for a paper bill instead of electronic statements.

Clemson City Council Approves FY 2027 Operating Budget with No Millage Increase

The City Council reviewed and discussed the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027. Key highlights include no millage increase, an overall rate increase of 3.3% (approximately $4 per month for an average home), a net increase of seven new positions, $70 million in operating revenues, $56 million in operating expenditures, and $51 million in capital outlay. The budget was presented with detailed breakdowns of enterprise funds (water, sewer, transit, parking, sanitation), general fund revenues (taxes, franchise fees, grants, permits), and expenditures by function (public safety, culture & recreation, general government, public works, housing & development). Capital purchases and projects were also detailed, including street paving, sidewalk projects, and funding sources such as bond proceeds and grants. A rate study indicated a 4% increase for water and sewer services, translating to a $4 monthly increase for a 5,000-gallon usage. The Catbus transit service contract rates increased from $90.36 to $106.50 per hour. The council also discussed endowment and nonprofit support, with a proposal to create a community action fund and an endowment starting with $250,000, and $50,000 allocated to a community foundation for nonprofit support. The fiscal year 2027 operating budget was approved on first reading.

Clemson City Council Adopts New Procurement and P-Card Policies, Allocates Funds for Community Support

The City Council discussed and approved a resolution to adopt a new procurement policy and procedure manual, effective July 1, 2026. This policy outlines the procedures for acquiring goods and services for the city. Additionally, a resolution to adopt a purchasing card (P-card) policy and manual, also effective July 1, 2026, was approved. These policies are intended to ensure responsible and efficient financial management within the city government. The council also discussed the creation of a community action fund, with $80,000 allocated in the budget for immediate projects assisting low to moderate-income individuals. An endowment is planned to be established with $250,000, with 5% of its annual earnings available for gifts. Furthermore, $50,000 was designated for a community foundation to support local nonprofits.

Council Addresses Resident Concerns on Staff Response Times and Planned Development Process

During the budget hearing, a resident inquired about the appropriate timeframe for city staff to respond to emails and questions, citing a lack of response from the city engineer since May 18th. The Mayor Pro Tempore assured the resident that they would follow up on the matter. Another resident raised concerns about the process of planned developments (PDs), suggesting that developers automatically receive PD status without meeting specific requirements and that the city's process is not adequately vetting these proposals. The resident argued that this approach benefits developers and students at the expense of existing residents. During the vote on the 201 Pine Street development, Council Member Evans initially stated an intention to abstain, but was informed that an abstention would count as a 'yes' vote according to council rules. This led to a clarification of council procedures regarding abstentions and voting, with the final vote resulting in the motion's passage.