First reading of land sale is approved

Following a unanimous vote at a recent Loris City Council special meeting, officials approved a first reading on a proposal to sell approximately 5.75 to 5.8 acres of the former Loris High School property to the county.

City attorney John Zilinsky explained that the parcel represents “about one-third, or slightly more than one-third, of the total 16.25-acre site,” noting that discussions with the county about a potential purchase have been ongoing for some time.

A portion of the land lies within a designated flood zone, meaning the county will be responsible for hiring a surveyor to provide detailed information before the measure can move to a final reading at the next council meeting. Zilinsky said the ordinance would allow the interim administrator to sign a contract once it is approved, but added that council must first review the exact boundaries after the survey plat is completed and attached.

Once those requirements are satisfied, council will take a final vote, which would authorize interim City Administrator Angel Neighbors to execute the agreement.

Mayor Mike Suggs clarified the location of the proposed sale, stating it is not on the Highway 701 side of the property, adding that the county’s preferred location changed during negotiations. Councilman Lewis Hardee made the motion to proceed, seconded by Councilwoman Joan Gause, and the measure passed with unanimous support.