New employees introduced to the board
A bike and pedestrian plan has been the topic of discussion for many years at Lake Waccamaw, and guests at last night’s meeting are bringing the town closer to the goal.
The N. C. Department of Transportation (DOT) granted the town $45,000 for a bicycle and pedestrian plan last month. The plan will help determine where walking and bike lanes should be placed throughout the town.
The Lake Waccamaw State Park Friends organization committed $1,500 of the $5,000 that the town must match for the initiation of NCDOT’s plan to pave a way for bikers and runners throughout the area. The monetary donation will leave Lake Waccamaw with a balance of $3,500 going toward the project.
“I would like to see people have the ability to walk and bike around the lake if that’s what they want to do,” said William Winsky, chairman of the Lake Waccamaw State Park Friends. The group feels that the plan will promote wellness and fitness within the community, and aid in easier travel with the annual Take the Lake event.
In other business, Lake Waccamaw is still taking applications for the open police officer’s position, but Tuesday the board was introduced to two new town employees.
Brandy Nance is the new fire chief for Lake Waccamaw Station 9. She is a graduate of Western Carolina University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in emergency medical care. She is a certified paramedic, law enforcement officer, and firefighter. She is also a level 2 EMS instructor. She has held the assistant chief position at Klondyke-Chadbourn Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department since 2003.
“She grew up in emergency services,” stated Mayor Daniel Hilburn.
“I’m really excited to be here. I’m looking forward to working with community for the town,” said Nance as she addressed the crowd. She also invites anyone who has any questions to come to her “and talk over a cup of coffee.”
Nance attended a meet and greet and her first meeting of the Lake Waccamaw Fire Department after the town council closed their session. She introduced herself and got to know her staff over a meal.
Talon Jacobs will also be joining Lake Waccamaw as the new Public Works employee.
“I’ve lived near the lake my entire life. I’ve just been here two weeks and I still love it,” Jacobs said. He said he’s excited to be a part of the town, and hopes to be here for many years.
The next Lake Waccamaw Town Council meeting will be Dec. 14 where the board will be seating Matt Wilson as the new mayor. Theresa McKeithan will take Wilson’s East Ward seat as commissioner. Frank Carroll will be sworn in for another term in the West Ward position.
