Run-off election to be held on Tuesday

By Kaye Collins

The official results for the Loris City Council election were tabulated and certified on Thursday, Nov. 6. A run-off election is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the West Precinct at the Public Safety Building and the East Precinct at Loris Elementary School. Andrea Coleman with 163 votes and Candice Grella with 165 votes will be on the ballot next Tuesday.

Kelli Gerald remains on council with 273 votes. She states in the words of the late John Lewis, ‘Freedom is not a state but an act and the vote is the most powerful non-violent tool we have in a democracy’. “I’m extremely thankful for my support system and the voters of this great City of Loris because they supported me to ensure a successful win,” said Gerald. “I will continue to work collaboratively with my fellow council members to make sound decisions that will positively impact the citizens of Loris.” She will persist in addressing the concerns of the citizens to ensure that the city remains progressive.

Carroll D. Padgett, Jr. garnered 236 votes and will retain his council seat for an additional four years. He expresses gratitude towards those who believe in his capability to represent the residents of Loris, as he continues to serve on the council to make optimal decisions that will benefit both the citizens and the City of Loris. “I appreciate your support and trust in my ability to continue representing the citizens of Loris by staying on the city council,” he stated. “All my endeavors are aimed at improving the City of Loris and the well-being of its residents.”

Joshua Franklin garnered 114 votes, Lamar Jordan obtained 154 votes and Marshall Russell received 79 votes. However, none of them achieved a majority of the votes. Every candidate expressed their gratitude for the support received while campaigning for a position on the city council.

The runoff election includes two candidates: Andrea Coleman, who has served as councilwoman for four years and her opponent, Candice Grella, who has not previously held a position on the council.

In alphabetical order, Andrea Coleman is the incumbent officeholder aiming to maintain her role on the Loris City Council. She has served four years on the council and has presided over several committees assigned to her under the leadership of two mayors.

Coleman has resided in Loris for eight years, having chosen it as her hometown due to the city’s charm and character. “Four years ago, I aspired to engage more actively in our community, which led me to run for city council,” she shared, “I am profoundly thankful to occupy this position.” She takes pride in her achievements as a councilwoman, from overseeing the safe demolition of the old LHS to contributing to the city’s continuous initiatives aimed at developing a 2040 Comprehensive Plan and a Downtown Master Plan to direct future growth. These plans entail evaluating concerns such as housing, economic development, transportation, and resilience. The Downtown Master Plan specifically focuses on the commercial district, offering recommendations that include enhancements to the streetscape and the possible redevelopment of the former high school site. Additionally, a distinct and more recent traffic study concerning the downtown intersection and streetscape enhancements has also been financed.

“The welfare of our citizens is of utmost importance to me and council,” she stated. “I firmly believe that our first responders should receive the essential backing and approval from both the city council and the community.” She expresses that our city can sustainably develop together, and that the necessary support and endorsement from both the city council and the community is crucial. “If I am re-elected, my objective will be to foster community development while preserving the quaint charm of Loris,” she stated.

Coleman believes that demolishing the old Loris High School on Broad Street stands as the most significant achievement during his time on the council. She is of the opinion that the council ought to address the ongoing water and sewer issues that existed prior to her establishing Loris as her permanent home. The flooding challenges require a collaborative approach with the county to achieve a unified solution that benefits all parties involved. “Revitalizing the downtown area is crucial for attracting visitors, but it is equally essential that we undertake this effort within the city limits as a whole,” she stated. “It shouldn’t be limited to just one street here or another street there; we are a community, not merely a block.”

Candice Grella firmly believes that the residents of Loris require both a voice and attentive ears from the members of the council. “I have conducted meetings to address matters that are significant to the residents of Loris,’ SHE says, “including the water and sewer challenges, as well as the fluctuating billing that has raised concerns among citizens regarding the additional costs reflected on their monthly billing statements.” She strongly believes that the Loris City Council should enhance its transparency and aspires to maintain ongoing meetings with the community to address their concerns, while also clarifying the council’s efforts to meet the citizens’ needs.

Growth is integral to the future of Loris; however, it is crucial to consider the city’s infrastructure, schools, and roadways to ensure that growth is pursued wisely and responsibly before making any decisions.

Grella asserts that she is not a politician, but rather a private citizen with concerns that she believes she can address while serving on the city council. She has obtained the 200-page 2040 Comprehensive Plan, examining the aspects that require enhancements or execution. She has acquired extensive knowledge regarding the decision-making processes of the city council and is receptive to engaging in discussions with residents.

Both candidates emphasize the importance of responsible growth for the city, taking into account all factors prior to making decisions regarding the construction of homes. Both parties hold the view that transparency is a crucial aspect of being a responsible council person.

As a resident within the city limits of Loris, you have the right to vote and select the individual you believe will represent the interests of the citizens. It is essential to express your opinion through voting and ensure that your voice is acknowledged.

Visit http://scvotes.org for more information.