Hey Sumter,



As America prepares to celebrate its 250th anniversary, the Sumter community is embracing the occasion with a full calendar of events, educational programs, festivals, and hands-on historical experiences that bring the Revolutionary era to life. Through Sumter250.org, residents and visitors can explore local events and discover the stories, people, and places that helped shape both South Carolina and the nation during the American Revolution.

Over the past several months, Sumter has already welcomed Revolutionary War living history demonstrations, family-friendly educational programs, and special exhibits at local museums and historic sites. The annual Sumter Iris Festival also joined in the statewide America 250 celebration, bringing thousands together for music, arts, history, and community pride.

The celebration continues throughout the coming months with opportunities for all ages to get involved. Upcoming events include guided Revolutionary War hikes at Poinsett State Park, historical presentations at the Sumter Museum, craft activities and educational programs at the Sumter County Library, and community commemorations happening across the region. Visitors can also enjoy speaker series, Carolina Day celebrations, interactive children’s activities, and programs highlighting South Carolina’s important role in America’s founding story. Plans are also underway for a public reading of the Declaration of Independence on the courthouse steps, echoing the spirit of 1776 and bringing the community together to reflect on the ideals that helped shape the nation.

More than just a celebration of history, these events are helping connect younger generations to the stories that shaped the nation while creating new opportunities for the community to come together.

Residents are encouraged to visit Sumter250.org regularly for updated event information, volunteer opportunities, and new ways to participate as Sumter continues celebrating America’s 250th anniversary throughout 2026.

Press on!

Mayor David Merchant

New Business

BUDGET – FISCAL YEAR 2026-2027

Consider First Reading of an ordinance to amend the City of Sumter’s budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026.

Budget Amendment Ordinance for FY 2025-2026.pdf



INFRASTRUCTURE IMPROVEMENT NOTICE

Beginning today, June 1, crews will be performing sewer rehabilitation work in portions of downtown Sumter as part of ongoing efforts to improve the reliability of our sewer system and reduce future maintenance needs.

Work Areas:

• Church Street from Liberty Street to Broad Street
• West Hampton Avenue from Church Street to Harby Street
• North Salem Avenue from West Hampton Avenue to Calhoun Street

Estimated Schedule: June 1 – August 1, 2026

Work Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. (with possible night work if needed)

During construction, residents may notice:

• Temporary traffic control and lane shifts

• Utility crews and construction equipment

• Brief noise and vibration during work hours

• Occasional requests to limit water usage during certain phases of construction

Driveway entry to homes and businesses will be maintained whenever possible.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as these important infrastructure improvements are completed. Updates will be shared as work progresses.

For questions or concerns, please contact Public Services at 803-436-2558.

Your Voice Can Shape the Future of the Sumter Opera House

The Sumter Opera House is preparing for its grand reopening after closing for renovations in June 2025. While construction is nearing completion, we want to hear from the people who will enjoy the venue in the future, including those who may not be familiar with the Opera House today.

We are launching a short community survey and invite all Sumter residents to participate. The survey takes about five minutes to complete. Your feedback on entertainment, advertising, and how the Sumter Opera House communicates with the community will help shape its future and better serve our residents.

Take the Survey: Survey Here 

Open June 1 – July 10, 2026