121525 Council Mtg Mins Adopted
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MINUTES OF DECEMBER 15, 2025
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
Kevin W. Toole, Councilmember - Mayor Pro Tem
Dennis C. Briatico, Councilmember
David B. Buck, Councilmember
Pat C. Carpenter, Councilmember
John M. Felak, Councilmember
Robert L. Freitas, Councilmember
ORDER OF BUSINESS
REGULAR MEETING
The Regular meeting of the City Council of the City of North Augusta of December 15, 2025 having been
duly publicized was called to order by Mayor Williams at 6:00pm and also streamed online for public
viewing at “City of North Augusta – Public Information” on www.Facebook.com and on the “City of North
Augusta Public Information” on www.YouTube.com. Per Section 30-4-80, (e) notice of the meeting by
email was sent out to the current maintained “Agenda Mailout” list consisting of news media outlets and
individuals or companies requesting notification. Notice of the meeting was also posted on the outside
doors of the Municipal Center, the main bulletin board of the Municipal Center located on the first floor,
and the City of North Augusta website.
Mayor Williams rendered the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance.
Members present were Mayor Williams, Councilmembers Briatico, Buck, Carpenter, Felak, Freitas, and
Toole.
Also in attendance were James S. Clifford, City Administrator; J.D. McCauley, Assistant Administrator; Kelly
F. Zier, City Attorney; Chief Junior Johnson, Public Safety; Jamie Paul, City Clerk; and Ricky Jones, Manager
of Information Technology.
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ITEM 4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
The minutes of the City Council Meeting of December 1, 2025 and Study Session minutes of December 8,
2025, were approved as submitted by general consent.
OLD BUSINESS
ITEM 5. PUBLIC SAFETY: Ordinance No. 2025-30 To Regulate the Operation of Golf Carts within the City
of North Augusta Including Nighttime Use – Second Reading
No public comment.
Administrator Clifford stated that the ordinance remains unchanged from the version presented during
the previous council meeting.
Attorney Zier provided an update to Council regarding his discussion with Representative Hixon and Mr.
Hixon’s discussion with the staff attorney’s. He addressed the attorneys’ interpretations of the
applicable laws and how those interpretations may vary. He highlighted the question of whether the
City may be more restrictive than state law and noted that the state statute identifies three options –
stipulate hours, locations, and methods; he indicated there is some uncertainty as to what those
“methods” specifically refer too.
Attorney Zier further explained that MASC has stated, in its opinion, that municipalities may not add
additional requirements, such as requiring more seat belts. He emphasized that these are opinions and
that his role is to advise Council accordingly. He concluded by recommending that Council proceed with
passing the resolution as presented.
Councilmember Felak spoke on his concerns of safety.
It was moved by Councilmember Buck, seconded by Councilmember Freitas, to approve Ordinance No.
2025-30 To Regulate the Operation of Golf Carts within the City of North Augusta Including Nighttime Use
– Second Reading. Unanimously Approved. (See Attachment #5)
NEW BUSINESS
ITEM 6. PARKS & RECREATION: Resolution No. 2025-41 Establishing Fishing Access and Other Usage
Rules in the City of North Augusta Public Waterways
No public comment.
Assistant Administrator McCauley stated that the item came as a recommendation from the Brick Pond
Committee to remove fishing and boating from the West Pond(s) in Brick Pond park. He noted that limited
fishing and boating in public waterways in the City is in Savannah River, Briggs Pond, and Beaufort Pond.
Discussion ensued relative to fees if fishing illegally, whether closing off the west pond(s) is the in the best
interest for the public, and wetland distinction.
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It was moved by Councilmember Carpenter, seconded by Councilmember Briatico, to approve Resolution
No. 2025-41 Establishing Fishing Access and Other Usage Rules in the City of North Augusta Public
Waterways. Vote: 5 – 2 with Nays from Councilmembers Felak and Toole. Approved. (See Attachment
#6)
ITEM 7. ADMINISTRATION: Resolution No. 2025-42 Authorizing the City of North Augusta to Enter into
a Contract for the MASC Impact Grant-Funded "4 Minute Community" Program
No public comment.
Assistant Administrator McCauley stated that out of 60 applications the City’s application was one that
was selected. He noted that the project would start in 2026 if approved and that the grant provides 50
AEDs throughout the City and is volunteer driven.
It was moved by Councilmember Toole, seconded by Councilmember Freitas, to approve Resolution No.
2025-42 Authorizing the City of North Augusta to Enter into a Contract for the MASC Impact Grant-Funded
"4 Minute Community" Program. Unanimously Approved. (See Attachment #7)
ITEM 8. ADMINISTRATIVE REPORTS
Chief Johnson reported on the three (3) strategic locations for a microchip scanning station within the City
limits:
• Bay’s Firearms and Range – 522 Edgefield Rd
• North Augusta Bark Park – Riverside Blvd
• Palmetto Parkway Bike Path Trailhead – Ascauga Lake Rd, next to the DMV
Mayor Williams requested that Councilman Freitas provide the information to the Animal Shelter
Coalition Group.
ITEM 9. PRESENTATIONS/COMMUNICATIONS/RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:
A. Citizen Comments:
No public comment.
B. Council Comments:
Mayor Williams highlighted on the following:
• Third Thursday, December 18 – Downtown from 5-8pm
• Winter Whirl Free Ice Skating at the Sharon Jones Amphitheater – December 3 – January 2
o Hours: Sunday-Thursday 2:00pm – 8:00pm and Friday & Saturday 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Mayor Williams clarified a paragraph he authored in the Hometown Highlights newsletter included with
the December utility bills, specifically addressing the Community Prayer Tree and comments that
stemmed from social media. He further clarified who the residents were and detailed the process by
which the submitted cards will be prayed over.
Councilmember Freitas also spoke regarding comments related to the Community Prayer Tree.
ORDINANCE NO. 2025-30
AN ORDINANCE TO REGULATE THE OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS
WITHIN THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA
INCLUDING NIGHTTIME USE
WHEREAS, Section 56-2-90 of the South Carolina Code of Laws authorizes municipalities to
regulate golf cart operation within their jurisdictions, including operation after sunset; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of North Augusta recognizes the increased use of golf carts as a mode
of personal and recreational transportation and desires to adopt clear, comprehensive guidelines for their
safe and lawful operation.
NOW, THEREFORE, be it ordained by the Mayor and City Council of the City of North Augusta,
South Carolina:
SECTION 1: GENERAL AUTHORIZATION FOR GOLF CART OPERATION
Golf carts may be operated within the municipal limits of North Augusta under the following general
provisions in accordance with South Carolina law 56-2-90:
1. The operator must be at least sixteen (16) years of age and hold a valid driver’s license.
2. The golf cart must be registered and permitted with the South Carolina Department of Motor
Vehicles and must display a valid DMV-issued golf cart permit decal.
3. The golf cart must be insured pursuant to South Carolina insurance requirements.
4. Operation is permitted only on secondary highways or streets where the posted speed limit is
thirty-five (35) miles per hour or less.
5. Golf carts may only be driven during daylight hours unless specifically authorized under
nighttime operation regulations.
6. Golf carts may cross streets or highways at intersections even if the cross street has a higher
speed limit.
7. Operation is only permitted within four (4) miles of the address on the DMV registration
certificate.
8. The operator must carry the registration certificate, proof of insurance, and a valid driver’s
license while operating the golf cart.
9. Children under the age of 12 are required to wear a seat belt when the golf cart is being driven
on public streets and highways.
SECTION 2: NIGHTTIME OPERATION OF GOLF CARTS
Golf carts may be operated after sunrise to 11:00 PM under the following conditions:
1. The golf cart must be equipped with all of the following functional safety features:
• Headlights (white, forward-facing)
• Taillights (red, rear-facing)
• Brake lights
• Reflectors on the front, rear, and sides
• Rear facing mirror
2. The golf cart must otherwise comply with all provisions of Section 1 of this ordinance.
ATTACHMENT #5 Page 1 of 2
3. Nighttime operation is prohibited during conditions of poor visibility unless the vehicle is
equipped with a functional windshield and wipers and functional safety features.
4. The City may restrict nighttime golf cart operation in specific areas through signage or future
ordinance amendments.
SECTION 3: PROHIBITED AREAS & CONDITIONS
1. Golf carts may not be operated on sidewalks, bike paths, greenways, or unpaved trails.
2. Golf carts may not be operated, except on paved roadways, in public parks or pedestrian malls
unless expressly permitted by city signage.
3. Golf carts are prohibited on private property without permission from the property owner.
SECTION 4: PENALTIES
Any violation of this ordinance shall be deemed a misdemeanor and subject to a fine of not more than
$100.00 or imprisonment for not more than 30 days, or both, as determined by the Municipal Court. Each
separate incident or day of violation shall constitute a separate offense.
SECTION 5: EFFECTIVE DATE
This Ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its adoption on second and final reading.
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF DECEMBER, 2025.
First Reading
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
Second Reading
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #5 Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-41
ESTABLISHING FISHING ACCESS AND OTHER USAGE RULES
IN CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA PUBLIC WATERWAYS
WHEREAS, the North Augusta City Council shall have the entire care, management and
control of all public parks in the city, and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta desires to establish fishing access and other usage
rules in City of North Augusta Public Waterways, waters open of right to the use of the general
public; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta Public Waterways consist of the Savannah River
and the following stormwater ponds: Brick Pond Park, Briggs Pond off Jackson Avenue, and
Beaufort Pond off Cypress Drive, and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta understands that stormwater ponds are designed
to provide two critical services:
1. Prevent flooding by suppressing surges of stormwater runoff that wash from
lawns, buildings, and paved surfaces.
2. Protect water quality by holding water long enough for natural processes to
remove sediment and some pollutants from the water before it is discharged to
nearby rivers or beaches.
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta understands that stormwater ponds are designed
to maintain a balanced ecosystem by controlling aquatic weed growth and preventing erosion;
and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta understands that fish in stormwater ponds help to
balance the ecology of the pond by serving as top predators, consuming smaller fish and
invertebrates, but they also serve as forage for many attractive animals such as wading birds and
osprey; and
WHEREAS, Brick Pond Park is a forty-acre restored wetland that functions as a
stormwater treatment system; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta and partners worked together to develop a healthy
ecosystem in Brick Pond Park and provide a way to clean pollution from the stormwater that
enters the ponds; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta has determined that fishing and boating activities
at Brick Pond Park is not in the best interests of maintaining a healthy ecosystem; and
WHEREAS, the City of North Augusta has determined that fishing and boating activities
for pubic waterways will be limited to the Savannah River, Briggs Pond, and Beaufort Pond; and
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 1 of 2
WHEREAS, North Augusta Public Safety is authorized to have jurisdiction over the City
of North Augusta Public Waterways and enforce these policies.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and City Council for the City of
North Augusta in meeting duly assembled and by the authority thereof:
1. Fishing and Boating in public waterways in the City of North Augusta is limited to the
Savannah River, Briggs Pond, and Beaufort Pond.
2. A state fishing permit issued by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is
required to fish in public waterways; City fishing permits are no longer required.
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF
DECEMBER, 2025.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #6 Page 2 of 2
RESOLUTION NO. 2025-42
AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT
FOR THE MASC IMPACT GRANT-FUNDED “4 MINUTE COMMUNITY” PROGRAM
WHEREAS, on September 15, 2025, the City Council approved Resolution No. 2025-
30, authorizing the submission of the City’s MASC Big Idea Impact Grant application and
affirming the City’s obligation to provide the required local match; and
WHEREAS, the Municipal Association of South Carolina has notified the City that its 4
Minute Community Program proposal has been selected to receive funding through the 2025
MASC Big Idea Impact Grant, following a highly competitive review process with more than 60
applications, and the judges noted the strong potential for meaningful positive impact in the
community; and
WHEREAS, the 4 Minute Community Program seeks to improve emergency cardiac
response by deploying Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) throughout neighborhoods and
activating trained citizen responders; and
WHEREAS, Avive Solutions, Inc. has been selected to implement the 4 Minute
Community Program, a specialized service offered by Avive, and will oversee AED deployment,
REALConnect services, training, and program management in North Augusta.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of North
Augusta, South Carolina, that:
• Authorize the City Administrator, or designee, to enter into a contract with Avive
Solutions, Inc., in accordance with the City’s procurement ordinance, to implement
the 4 Minute Community Program.
• Cap the City’s annual financial commitment to an amount not to exceed $68,000.
• Use the MASC Big Idea Impact Grant and community sponsorships as primary
funding sources, with the City’s Capital Projects Fund serving as the required match
and contingency funding source for any remaining costs.
• Authorize the City Administrator, or designee, to execute all documents necessary to
implement and administer the program.
ATTACHMENT #7 Page 1 of 2
DONE, RATIFIED AND ADOPTED BY THE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF NORTH AUGUSTA, SOUTH CAROLINA, ON THIS ______ DAY OF
DECEMBER, 2025.
Briton S. Williams, Mayor
ATTEST:
Jamie Paul, City Clerk
ATTACHMENT #7 Page 2 of 2