BELTON, SC — Here is an update about activities in the city of Belton in recent months and a little about the future.

We receive many inquires about various properties around the city. One never knows the real interest when a call is received to check zoning, availability of utilities, etc. Judging from the increased frequency and the follow-up contacts, we think Belton is ripe for development and growth.

A number of new single-family homes have been built on the east side of the city, and more are planned. Site work is under way also across town for a dozen or so homes intended for retirees. A short distance from the retirement project is another much larger tract of land with site work in progress as well. This growth in residential development is good for the city. It speaks well of the confidence in the Belton community, which provides a great a place to live and raise a family. Many people desire to be a part of a smaller community with churches, schools and other desirable elements without all of the hustle and bustle of larger places.

Nearing completion also is our community development block grant project, which will bring two new replacement homes plus more than a dozen homes that have been renovated. This project provides much improved living conditions for low- to moderate-income families. Belton has joined with Anderson County and the city of Anderson in a “homes program” that will provide funding for more improvements.

This is an unusual time in terms of weather, with drought conditions that bring hardship in several ways. Belton is actively involved in assisting nearby residents to secure water by working with the county and the state. These projects at the same time will expand our customer base and enhance future development potential.

We are proud of the new residential growth, and complementing the new homes is the removal of substandard units. These often become havens for undesirable activities. This program is very good, and with the county’s assistance, a number of homes/buildings have been removed to make way for new construction and future development.

Belton is nearing competion of Phase II of the downtown project, which brings back a nostalgic view of the city square. New accessible sidewalks, parking, new “period” lighting and other amenities are complemented by the Belton Center for the Arts, which is not expanding on the square.

Likewise, the newly remodeled depot is bringing folks back to town for events. The Museum and the South Carolina Tennis Hall of Fame, which are housed in the historic depot, are popular visitor destinations. Just across the road from the depot is the almost new branch of the county library system. These things have been accomplished with support by various groups/individuals too numerous to mention.

Just a stone’s throw south from the depot is the popular Belton Tennis Center, which has been home to the Palmetto Tournament for many years. This tournament is known to be a real asset to the entire county, with crowds of people coming to the Upstate for a week of tennis and related interests.

Belton is a product of the railroad; it continues to have service from the two lines. We think rail service is still a valuable asset and know that fuel costs are causing some people to think of rail as an alternative. We know that certain industries need rail service. Belton has it, along with available properties contiguous to the railroads. This business will not boom overnight, but the long-term potential is great.

Adjoining the railroad and within the city is the Standpipe Industrial Park, which has all elements needed for development. We are continuing to work with owners to bring in new industry and jobs. These efforts involve county and state officials. Other business and industry in and around the city provide jobs for people; we have a good working relationship with management to promote their success in Belton.

The city of Belton is blessed with excellent professional staff that carries out daily operations. Here are people who know and understand the value of quality service to our customers. Police, fire, public works, utilities, recreation and administrative services personnel strive to make the best use of public funds.

Considerable improvements have been made and continue with the paving of streets, sidewalk construction and removal of dangerous trees along the roadways.

The city conducted its First Annual Appreciation Breakfast in January. The purpose in addition to expressing our gratitude to business and industry was to promote a sense of community, a time to get acquainted/reacquainted: Belton Means Business. Come join us as we work together for a better Belton.

Rufus Callaham is the mayor of the city of Belton.

Rufus Callaham is the mayor of Belton.