The Tega Cay City Council convened on March 16, 2026, for a meeting characterized by significant community recognition and long-range planning. Key actions included the unanimous approval of the first reading of the 2025–2035 Comprehensive Plan, which sets the city’s vision for growth and small-town continuity over the next decade. The Council also received a positive annual audit report for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, confirming the city’s strong financial health with an unmodified “clean” opinion. Additionally, the Council authorized several appointments to various boards and commissions and moved forward with the first reading of an annexation and rezoning request for property on Hubert Graham Way. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the future of the city’s solid waste contract, with Council opting to delay a decision on renewing with the current provider until more comparative rate data is presented at a future workshop.
Detailed Agenda Summary
Presentations and Reports
The meeting opened with a heavy focus on community achievement through several proclamations:
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Fort Mill High School Wrestling Team: Recognized for winning their fourth consecutive 5A Division II South Carolina State Championship with a perfect 30-0 season.
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Joshua Prince: Commended for winning the 2026 Marine Corps Junior R.O.T.C. National Air Rifle Championship with an impressive aggregate score.
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Public Safety Telecommunicators’ Week: April 12–18, 2026, was designated to honor the dispatchers who serve as the critical link between citizens and first responders.
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National Vietnam War Veterans Day: Council declared March 29, 2026, as a day to honor the service and sacrifice of local Vietnam veterans, several of whom were in attendance.
Fiscal Year 2024–2025 Audit Report
Representatives presented the findings of the annual audit, issuing an “unmodified opinion,” the highest level of assurance possible. The report highlighted:
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An increase in net position of approximately $2.1 million.
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A general fund balance of $14 million, with $10.1 million (53% of expenditures) categorized as unassigned, indicating strong fiscal reserves.
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A reduction in long-term debt by approximately $4 million.
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Council accepted the report unanimously.
City Manager’s Report
City Manager Charlie Funderburk introduced several new staff members in administration, police, parks, and utilities. He highlighted “Sunshine Week,” focusing on public access to government information. Development updates included ongoing work on the “Alderwood” project and a potential restroom addition at the river access near the dam. He also noted a rise in vandalism at city parks and urged parents to discuss appropriate behavior with their children.
Committee and Commission Reports
The Planning Commission reported on the completion of the 2025–2035 Comprehensive Plan. The Economic Development Commission announced an upcoming “Business Connect” meeting on April 16 to discuss the development of “The Grove.”
Public Comments
No citizens signed up for formal public comments. However, the Council recognized a local Scout troop from Steel Creek attending the meeting to earn merit badges in communication and citizenship.
Approval of Minutes
The Council unanimously approved the minutes from the February 23, 2026, regular meeting.
Committee Appointments
Council unanimously approved several new members to city boards:
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Board of Zoning Appeals: Nancy Peliciano, Dirk Tannis, and Amy Youngblood.
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Economic Development Commission: Chris Frankhouser, Roger Metz, Ashley Raven, Gus Machunis, Audrey Coverden, and Madison Bert.
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Parks, Recreation & Events Committee: Milton Chickas and Jeremy Lambert.
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Planning Commission: Thomas Giuliani, Nick Akio, Sheri Stroll, and Michael Wilhelm.
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Stormwater & Environmental Committee: Nelson Vogt.
Staff noted continued vacancies on the Public Art Jury and a lack of a quorum for the Stormwater Committee.
New Business
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2025–2035 Comprehensive Plan (Items 5A & 5C): Council considered the adoption of the new 10-year plan. Members thanked the steering committee and residents for their input, emphasizing the plan’s focus on maintaining a small-town feel while managing growth. The Council unanimously approved the introduction and first reading.
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Annexation and Rezoning (Items 5B & 5D): Council reviewed a petition to annex 1557 Hubert Graham Way and rezone it from York County RSF-40 to City R-40. The Council unanimously approved the first reading.
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Solid Waste Contract (Item 5E): Council discussed whether to renew the current contract with Signature Waste (set to expire in 2027) or put it out for a new bid. Discussion revolved around the benefits of continuity versus the need for competitive pricing transparency. Council directed the City Manager to provide a comparative analysis of rates in other municipalities at a March 31 workshop before making a final decision.
Council Comments
Council members praised the local students and veterans recognized earlier. They highlighted upcoming events, including an “Adopt a Pup” event, a Memorial Day 5K race at Catawba Park, and the planned burial of a 20-year time capsule on Memorial Day.
Executive Session
Council entered executive session to discuss legal advice regarding pending litigation and contractual matters related to a cell tower lease with American Tower. No action was taken in open session following the executive meeting.
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