Beaufort County Council Caucus and Regular Council Meetings Monday, May 26, 2026 @ 4pm & 6pm

The Beaufort County Council held caucus and regular meetings on May 26, 2026, addressing a wide range of procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included approval of a budget ordinance amendment to purchase a $1.95 million helicopter for the Sheriff's Office, bond redemptions totaling $11.57 million, and full funding for the Buckwalter Recreation Athletic Complex expansion. The council also considered ordinances related to real property conveyances, disaster recovery updates, and amendments to environmental and community development codes. Budget deliberations featured motions to adjust millage rates, reallocate funds, and modify allocations to entities such as the Economic Development Corporation, community service grants, and public transportation (LRTA). The council debated funding for higher education institutions, small business development, and the solicitor's office, with several motions to increase or reduce funding passing or failing. A significant discussion focused on a transportation sales tax referendum, including a motion to exclude unprepared food from taxation and extend the program from eight to nine years, which passed unanimously. Additionally, the council approved a resolution related to integrated pest management and a memorandum of agreement for the St. James Baptist Church relocation project. Multiple votes and motions were taken to amend budgets, approve contracts, and set policy affecting future procurement and funding priorities in Beaufort County.