Swansea, SC 08/21/2021 (Doris Simmons) - Mayor Jerald Sanders had closed Town Hall to 2 Council members, Doris Simmons and Michael Luongo, before his indictment on embezzlement. Now interim Mayor Woodrow Davis and Town Hall Clerk/Treasurer Margaret Harvey have again closed Town Hall and canceled all town meetings until further notice.
In a letter to local residents, Simmons and Luongo wrote that they were surprised by the interim mayor’s action.
“We had hoped to have a frank, open discussion as we always try to do, to bring us together and move forward as a council at the Monday 16th’s monthly town meeting.
“But since we are unable to have a meeting in person or by teleconference we will use this time to work out how to continue serving the citizens of Swansea during the unexpected shutdown of the town hall.”
Simmons wrote that she and Luongo “need to take this time to work on creating a better set of conditions for us to have the discussion.
“In the coming days we will try to find a forum to gather and engage with Swansea citizens and business owners, where people can feel comfortable to speak freely. We’ll share details soon.
“Over the past few days, we have had the chance to meet with people here, and we have read each of your posts and emails carefully.
“The vast majority of you are supportive of our decisions and the work we do. A smaller percentage of you wish we would do more. And some are worried that you do not have a forum where you can speak out freely.
“All of your voices and opinions matter… and we want to hear them.
“In the meantime, let’s not forget what unites us as a town — our desire to build a better community for everyone that will make a big difference in our lives.
“We have been in a few discussions with our county leaders and we feel energized by the important things they are working on. Council member Luongo and I can, and will continue, to come together to do the best for the people we serve.”
Editor's Note: This letter was authored by Councilmember Doris Simmons and edited by the staff of the Lexington Chronicle and Dispatch News. It is being used with their permission.
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