Seven months ago, Orangeburg County Council rejected the lone $97,400 proposal from ANGLE Technology Group for a feasibility study for the World Trade Park and Education Research Center Project.

After a renewed search and review, council, with four proposals to choose from, voted this past week to accept a plan from the same ANGLE Technology Group, for $98,900.

The WTPERC is an economic development project created by the South Carolina World Trade Center. Its mission is to improve the state's economy through enhanced trade, education and research, including a focus on the Interstate 95 corridor. Both Orangeburg County and South Carolina State University are participating with WTPERC in the feasibility study to determine the project scope and potential locations within the county.

Orangeburg County and SCSU are each responsible for $49,450 or half of the feasibility study cost.

As he had explained previously, County Administrator Bill Clark said the project is similar to Upstate efforts with Clemson and the University of South Carolina. With SCSU providing the research component, he said the focus will be on transportation and the distribution industry.

The timing is right, Clark said, to "foster international trade and commerce" in the state.

Independent consultant Barbara Dilligard, who is facilitating the process, explained the various components of the park -- manufacturing, research, education and product incubation.

Asked by Councilman Clyde Livingston how much the county would have to pay if the feasibility study is positive, Dilligard said the study would provide a realistic look with information based on the economy.

"Orangeburg is a prime spot right now for development," Council Chairman Harry Wimberly said.

ANGLE Technology Group is an international consulting firm, based in London and with offices in Charlottesville, Va.

In other business, council:

* Accepted a $3,200 a month, five-year lease agreement for offices for the sheriff's department. The space, located in Chestnut Square, will be used for investigators and victims' advocates.

* As recommended by the Public Works Committee, agreed to accept road-paving projects recommended by the Transportation Committee, using state C funds, on a one-by-one basis.

* Appointed Frederick Mallard of District 1 to the Planning Commission.

* Recognized the Community of Character employees of the month. Capt. Tyrone Ryant of the detention center represented the October trait of "self-control; Deputy Maj. Mernard E. Clarkson of the Sheriff's Office represented the November trait of "cleanliness: and Ruth VanFaussien, administrative assistant, represented the December trait of "courtesy."

* Received as information, concerns from Molly Smith of the ad hoc Farmers' Market Committee and Brian Hinson over the status of the county's efforts to establish a permanent centrally located farmers market in the county. Council reiterated its support for the project.

* Received as information, concerns raised by Abe Salama over the increase in utility bills sent by the city of Orangeburg's Department of Public Utilities. He said he was told that, although consumption may remain the same, the bills could be higher based on temperatures. At the same time, he said, the Orangeburg-Calhoun-Allendale-Bamberg Community Action Agency has just announced that heating assistance has been reduced and no funds are available. Claiming that he had to give two weeks notice to request an appearance before City Council, he asked County Council to convey his concerns.

* In closed, executive session, discussed economic development issues concerning the new Project Upland and two expansions.

T&D Government Writer Tucker Lyon can be reached at tlyon@timesanddemocrat.com or by calling 803-533-5545.

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