City councilman, mayor finally agree on something

Long adversaries on policy decisions, Gaffney City Councilman Wayne Ramsey and Mayor Henry Jolly found themselves in agreement over the unlikeliest of issues during Monday's council meeting - the site of this year's annual planning workshop.

Ramsey has been a staunch advocate of holding the workshop in Gaffney to cut costs, while Jolly has favored a more work-friendly environment offered by an out-of-town destination.

But worries over the city's financial condition placed both public officials on the same side of the issue.

"I find myself in the unusual situation of agreeing with councilman Wayne Ramsey," Jolly said. "I think we should stay close to home."

Jolly also cited the controversy that ensued after The Ledger reported the Greenville Hyatt charged the city approximately $7,000 for the 3-day, 2-night event, including $2,617 for meals. The meals included three breakfasts and two lunches as well as three morning and two afternoon snacks during last year's workshop.

The cost per lunch was a pricey $26.95, while the hotel charged each city official $14.95 for a buffet breakfast.

The Gaffney Board of Public Works has no plans to rethink its decision to travel to Charlotte for its annual longrange planning workshop. The workshop is tentatively scheduled for Feb. 28 through March 1 at a place known as "The Duke House," located on the Duke Power Foundation property. The utility typically spends about $4,000 to $5,000 at the workshop.

"I'm a firm believer that you have to get away from distractions to get things accomplished," Board of Public Works General Manager Donnie Hardin said.