Aiken City Council Meeting June 8, 2026

The Aiken City Council held a meeting on June 8, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement actions included approval of the sale of city-owned property at 15 Given Street to Adams Property Group LLC for $475,000, and authorization to purchase approximately 4.95 acres on Anderson Pond Road for $138,000 to support water system improvements. The council also approved acceptance of grants for sewer and water line extension projects, including a $1.5 million grant with a 20% city match for the Anderson Pond water line extension. Budget ordinances were passed to set the millage rate at 60 mills for fiscal year 2026-2027, increase stormwater management fees from $6.82 to $8.33 per month, and raise water and sewer service charges by 8%, resulting in an average household increase of about $5.51 per month. Additionally, the council approved economic development incentives for Parker Aiken LLC related to a $59 million apartment project and authorized a budget adjustment for emergency roof replacement at the park operations center. Public comments focused heavily on community concerns about homelessness, neighborhood safety, and communication regarding the potential Salvation Army resource center, though no final decisions on the center's location were made. The council also discussed zoning and development plans for workforce housing projects, emphasizing the need for clear communication and community involvement.