Florence City Council Meeting - May 11th, 2026

The City of Florence, South Carolina, held a City Council meeting on May 11, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key topics included the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget presentation, highlighting a proposed stormwater utility rate increase and a total budget of approximately $158 million across various funds. The council discussed multiple capital improvement projects, including water and sewer infrastructure upgrades, stormwater management initiatives, and a significant $25 million wastewater interceptor project funded largely by a state revolving fund loan. The meeting also addressed the financial impact of forced South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) projects requiring utility relocations, with costs around $600,000 for a single project and an estimated 25-30% of city projects affected annually. Additionally, the council approved amendments to the business license declining rate schedule to better balance tax burdens between small and large businesses. Several resolutions were passed, including the adoption of the community development block grant budget and proclamations recognizing small business month and local achievements. The meeting concluded with updates on ongoing and planned infrastructure projects, emphasizing the city's efforts to improve water quality, system resiliency, and flood mitigation through a combination of city funds, grants, and loans.