The process of widening Highways 321 and 78 in the city of Denmark is underway. In an update on the long anticipated project, City of Denmark administrator Heyward Robinson reported at Council’s February 19, meeting that the process of acquiring all the right of ways needed to complete the project has have been acquired. Drainage plans for the intersection are now being reviewed and Department of Transportation officials are “confident” the work on the intersection would be bided out this year.

Also during the meeting; finance director Rusty Munoz reported that seven months into the fiscal year revenues were approximately 90% of what is usually collected. He also noted water department funds were about where they were projected in the budget as were expenditures.

Fireman Corey Sandifer reported the Denmark Fire Department responded to 14 total calls during the month including five false alarms, two structure fires, five grass fires and two wrecks. He noted that 10 members on average attend training meetings, 14 members attend business meetings, an average of eight members respond per fire and 24 members are on the roster. Sandifer also reported the department got its ladder truck back.

Denmark Police Chief Leroy Grimes reported that for the period of January 22-Feb 19 the department created 87 case files. That included robbery, assault aggravated, burglary, disorderly conduct, shoplifting, trespass of real property, possession of cocaine, criminal domestic violence, traffic collision and DUS… etc. The Chief noted that Officer Travis A. Wright completed the South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy on Friday, February 15.

In an effort to make the citizens of Denmark more aware of the latest trends in law enforcement, Chief Grimes reported the SCDMV will hold the 2013 Driver Suspension Eligibility Week for drivers with certain license suspensions March 11-15, 2013 in all offices across the state. During Driver Suspension Eligibility Week, South Carolina drivers who have lost their driving privileges for suspensions included in the program may be able to reduce or clear the remaining time of their suspension. “It’s a plus for all the citizens in South Carolina,” Chief Grimes said.

Denmark public works department general manager Cedrick Hudson reported the department repaired four leaks through the city. The department submitted a requested water audit report to DHEC and cleared and cut underbrush at the new library for the drop-in.

During his administrator’s report, administrator Robinson reported that he and Mayor Gerald Wright and council members attended the legislative action day on February 13. He noted that Councilman James Robinson completed the municipal institute for elected officials, which is a program sponsored by the municipal association.

In his mayor’s report, Mayor Gerald Wright, who was recently re-elected to another four-year term by a vote of (285 to 127 from challenger Pat Anduze) noted that the election gave him an opportunity to do some “reflecting.” He said will encourage council members to look more closely at “how we can serve you.” He said the city will have “challenge” to improve and maintain services. He noted he was looking forward to the new library opening “as expeditiously” as possible.