PENDLETON — Looking back on 2007, I am pleased with the progress in Pendleton.

The Town Council agreed to the condemnation of all abandoned mobile homes within town limits. After 13 years of hoping to beautify the islands at U.S. 76, it was done. Thanks to Anderson County, our new library opened, and the number of people using has increased dramatically. It is truly an asset to the quality of life in Pendleton.

Another visit from our Sister City delegation was a blessing. This relationship between the town of Pendleton and Stornoway, Scotland, continues to grow, and during the delegation’s time here, the Sister City Park was dedicated. It is a passive green space with a few benches on South Mechanic Street.

Progress continued at Veterans Park, with the construction of the new pavilion, which will have public restrooms, an office and storage space for the Pendleton Recreation Association, a oncession stand and an upstairs viewing area overlooking the fields. Trotter’s Trail was started, which is a nature trail being constructed in memory of Justin Trotter, a young student who lost his life to cancer.

The town also received another federal grant of $1.4 million to continue work on our water system.

As you ride through Pendleton, you will see houses under construction and many being remodeled.

The greatest challenge of 2007 was the dilemma of Pendleton Station. This will continue into 2008 as the Town Council, Enterprise Bank and Apex Homes work, with input from citizens, to make a bad situation better.

Also in 2008, some very positive things will be the dedication of the pavilion and Trotter’s Trail, and fundraising will begin for the Veterans Memorial — all at Veterans Park. The Guard House on the town square will be renovated, new crosswalks made downtown, and the sidewalk on South Mechanic Street will be done with grant funds.

Phase II of our water system upgrade will begin but will not be complete until 2009. There has been a great deal of talk about a master plan for downtown. This could be the catalyst for downtown revitalization.

Pendleton residents will be called on to conserve water as our area continues to be in a drought condition.

I suspect this year will bring rewards as well as challenges, but Pendleton has sustained 217 years, and I believe as a community united together for good, we’re up for whatever comes our way!

Carol Burdette is the mayor of Pendleton.