Aiken, SC, October 18, 2025
News Summary
During a recent forum at South Aiken High School, Aiken City Council candidates addressed critical issues like water infrastructure, homelessness, traffic congestion, government transparency, and the proposed downtown parking garage. About 60 residents attended the forum, allowing candidates to present their views and solutions to enhance community welfare. Topics ranged from improving water infrastructure to addressing homelessness through collaborative efforts, showcasing the candidates’ unique perspectives on local governance.
Aiken, SC – Aiken City Council candidates outlined their positions on several important issues during a forum held at South Aiken High School on October 16. Approximately 60 residents attended the event, where candidates discussed topics such as water infrastructure, homelessness, traffic congestion, government transparency, and a proposed downtown parking garage.
In District 2, Democrat Lessie Price is running unopposed and has been a member of the council since 1987. District 4 candidates include Democrat Jacob Ellis and Republican Pete Messina, as incumbent Ed Girardeau is not seeking reelection. In District 5, Republican Kent Cubbage and Democrat Braylen Waldo are vying for the position, while Andrea Gregory will not seek a third term. District 6 candidates are Republican Barbara Morgan and Democrat Lisa Smith, following the decision of incumbent Ed Woltz not to run again.
Each candidate had the opportunity to respond to forum questions within 60 seconds, rotating the order of answers. The discussion began with the topic of water infrastructure updates. Lisa Smith raised a significant point about a social media survey indicating that 75% of respondents felt the current infrastructure is inadequate. Candidates proposed various solutions, including the pursuit of grants, expert involvement, fiscal conservatism, reallocation of tax funds, and innovative funding strategies.
The candidates also addressed the complex issue of homelessness in Aiken. Jacob Ellis proposed establishing a tiny home community along the west Richland Avenue corridor. Pete Messina highlighted the importance of distinguishing between affordable and low-income housing, while other candidates supported a combination of tiny homes and traditional housing as solutions. A consensus was reached on the need for community collaboration to address homelessness effectively.
Regarding traffic congestion, the candidates shared their viewpoints. Suggestions included limiting left turns at certain intersections during peak times and enhancing public transportation options. Candidates expressed concerns over traffic impacts from new developments and emphasized the need for self-sufficient neighborhoods to minimize congestion.
The candidates also underscored the need for improved government transparency. Suggestions included public participation in city council committees, monthly district meetings, and better engagement via newsletters and social media. There was an acknowledgment of the current lack of trust between citizens and the city council, with calls for more open communication in council meetings.
Discussion on the proposed downtown parking garage revealed mixed feelings among candidates. While some acknowledged the necessity due to ongoing downtown development, others voiced concerns regarding funding and the project’s impact on local festivals and community understanding of financing mechanisms.
Cubbage, Waldo, Morgan, Smith, Price, Ellis, and Messina each presented unique perspectives on community needs and solutions they aim to implement if elected.
Key Issues Discussed
- Water Infrastructure Improvement
- Homelessness Solutions
- Traffic Congestion Mitigation
- Government Transparency Efforts
- Downtown Parking Garage Proposal
Candidate Overviews
- District 2: Lessie Price (Democrat)
- District 4: Jacob Ellis (Democrat), Pete Messina (Republican)
- District 5: Kent Cubbage (Republican), Braylen Waldo (Democrat)
- District 6: Barbara Morgan (Republican), Lisa Smith (Democrat)
Summary of Candidate Views
| Issue | Candidate | Position |
|---|---|---|
| Water Infrastructure | Lisa Smith | 75% of respondents feel inadequate infrastructure |
| Homelessness | Jacob Ellis | Establishment of a tiny home community |
| Traffic Congestion | Braylen Waldo | No left turns during peak times |
| Government Transparency | Barbara Morgan | Advocacy for public participation |
| Parking Garage | Kent Cubbage | Opposes citing poor use of downtown real estate |
FAQ
What were the main topics discussed at the Aiken City Council forum?
Candidates discussed issues including water infrastructure, homelessness, traffic congestion, government transparency, and a proposed downtown parking garage.
Who are the candidates running for District 4?
District 4 candidates include Jacob Ellis (Democrat) and Pete Messina (Republican).
What solutions did candidates propose for homelessness?
Candidates proposed establishing tiny home communities, differentiating between affordable and low-income housing, and encouraging community collaboration.
How did candidates suggest addressing traffic congestion?
Candidates suggested limiting left turns at certain intersections, enhancing public transportation options, and developing self-sufficient neighborhoods.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Weekend Events and Weather in North Augusta
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Additional Resources
- Aiken City Council Candidates Forum – Post and Courier
- Goose Creek Council Candidate Forum – Aiken Standard
- Aiken Hosts Public Forum on Tiny Home Project – WRDW
- Wikipedia: Local Government in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Election
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
