Last week found the Quail flying to town meetings. From cat laws in Wagener, to Gaston and Swansea police chiefs and a budget meeting in Pelion, this Quail is tired.

Let’s start with Wagener’s cat law. During the public part of the meeting, 8 people spoke. What we can’t figure out is why 7 of them who live outside town were allowed to speak? Does the town allow business owners to speak? Mayor Miller was generous to allow that.

AT THE TOWN of Gaston we found out that Major Stephen Watkins is now the interim chief. Congrats to Stephen. County Council Chairman Scott Whetstone talked about an Intergovernmental Cooperative Agreement and Urban Entitlement program. He explained most paved roads are state, not county owned. The cost to pave a road for just 1 mile is about $900,000.

Chief Watkins mentioned that the local BP station had been robbed. A suspect had reached into the open register and grabbed money. He said the new police phone numbers is 803-936-6003. This is a non-emergency number so leave a message.

NEXT STOP was the Town of Pelion meeting. The Council approved the 1st reading of the 2021 budget. The town will end the year “In the black” which continues a string of years this was accomplished.

Finally, the Quail said goodbye to Swansea Clerk of Court Pam Shepard and Police Chief Clif Hayes. Thanks to both for their kindness and friendship.