March 2012
Dear Friends and Neighbors,
Pacolet is a place of promise. “Close to Everything…Far from ordinary” is more that our community slogan; it is a new attitude. Pacolet’s attitude is best described in our Community Covenant where we promise to take care of each other and preserve nature’s blessings entrusted to us. Pacolet is a place where over 5,000 call home whether you live within the municipal boundary or in the counties of Union, Cherokee or Spartanburg. We experience a unique blend of history, culture and progress. If you want to learn more about our natural and cultural heritage please call the Pacolet Town Hall (864.474.9504) for information on one of our Cultural Heritage Tours.
The word progress may bring a question mark to mind considering our nation’s economic climate, but listen up, we are making progress. The Business District along Highway 9 is being upgraded with public sewer, which is greatly needed for any new business to locate in our area. We received a $925,000 grant from the Appalachian Regional Council of Governments and the South Carolina Budget and Control Board for this project. Remember! Grants are monies that are allocated for specific projects. If we do not apply for these monies we will lose them to another community.
The United States Department of Agriculture funded a feasibility study to assess the possibility of recreation and economic development along our waterway which complements our 2004 Community Master plan. We are in the process of placing both studies online. The potential is tremendous bringing people and jobs into our community.
Family Dollar is building a new store in our Business District near the former Pacolet High School Gym site. Look for construction to begin by the end of March. Town Council has also been making a concerted effort to locate a super market and large scale service station to our area.
Other economic development forecasts are the revitalization happenings along the Pacolet River. Lockhart Power Company is a subsidiary of Pacolet Milliken Enterprises and they are building another small power plant in Pacolet at the upper dam. Construction is already underway. The Pacolet River Paddling Trail funded through the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is being developed for recreation. The Palmetto Conservation Foundation is administering the $250,000 grant to build the paddling trail. Canoe and kayak take-outs and put-ins in Pacolet are two of the designated sites. Official opening planned for fall of this year.
As new businesses make Pacolet their home, please do not forget the businesses that are already here. Help support our businesses by “Buying in Pacolet” when you can.
As your public servants, we as a council are committed to serving you. Please call on us if you need our help.
May God bless you!
Elaine Harris, Mayor