At its December meeting, Florence City Council approved several routine and ceremonial items, moved forward an annexation and introduced a curfew ordinance while recognizing local leaders and nonprofit work.

On land use, the council approved the second reading of Bill 2025-42 to annex and zone a parcel on South Irby Street (tax map identifier cited during the reading). The council also introduced Bill 2025-43, a first reading to amend municipal code sections related to juvenile curfew; staff explained the amendment raises the juvenile age to 17 and adjusts curfew hours citywide and tighter downtown hours with enumerated exceptions (work, prom, driving).

Council passed Resolution 2025-47 honoring Dr. John A. Keith III for contributions to downtown revitalization and Resolution 2025-48 recognizing foster care crisis awareness and supporting the South Carolina Youth Advocate Program. Tyler of the Youth Advocate Program addressed the council about shelter and foster-family needs.

The council also heard a presentation from Mindy Taylor of the Duke Energy Foundation announcing a $10,000 grant to support structural repairs that allow more residents to participate in weatherization programs. Building Florence Together presented its annual report, noting two new homes this year, a $500,000 line of credit, city-provided single-family homes and a clean audit.

What’s next: The curfew ordinance (Bill 2025-43) will return for subsequent readings; staff will follow up on annexation implementation and continue coordination with community partners on housing and weatherization initiatives.