Victoria Samuels

Columbia

Writer at WLTX-TV (Columbia, SC)

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Articles

Lexington town council lowers property tax rate to 23.6 mills

5 days ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

LEXINGTON, S.C. — The Town of Lexington has finalized its budget for the upcoming fiscal year deciding not to increase millage rates and instead slightly lowering them. On Monday night, Lexington Town Council voted to approve a new property tax ordinance that sets the tax rate at 23.6 mills per dollar of taxable property value within town limits. The new fiscal year begins July 1.
Residents recount terrifying moments as storms batter Clarendon County

1 week ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

CLARENDON COUNTY, S.C. — Residents and emergency officials are assessing the aftermath of severe storms that swept through Clarendon County Friday evening, bringing heavy rain and intense winds that left damage in their wake. The storms moved through the area just after 5 p.m., prompting a tornado warning near Summerton and downing trees across the county. Michael Johnson, a Manning resident, described the frightening moment when a large tree toppled onto his home.
Blythewood funds Doko Park upgrades, rejects youth ordinance

1 week ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

BLYTHEWOOD, S.C. — Blythewood Town Council approved several upgrades to Doko Meadows Park during a meeting Tuesday night, while voting down a controversial ordinance aimed at reducing youth violence. The council authorized up to $35,800 in funding for emergency repairs and upgrades to the park's gates, citing the need to secure main access points. Officials said the improvements are essential to enhance public safety.
Lexington County homeowners might see relief in property taxes

1 week ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. — Homeowners in Lexington County may soon see financial relief as county council has taken a second vote to keep property taxes flat in the upcoming fiscal year. During its recent meeting, the council held a second reading of the proposed budget which if approved in its final form would mean no increase in county property taxes for residents.
Young mother killed in broad daylight shooting sparks family’s plea

2 weeks ago | 13wmaz.com | Victoria Samuels

NEWBERRY, S.C. — The family of a woman fatally shot in broad daylight in Newberry is speaking out as police continue investigating the deadly incident. Breanna Bates, 25, was killed Monday afternoon after being struck by gunfire. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Her mother, Rebecca Gary, is calling for an end to gun violence. “When is it gonna stop? When is the guns gonna be put down and when is the violence gonna stop?” Gary asked.
Two young lives lost. One decision changed everything on a South Carolina road.

2 weeks ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

LEXINGTON COUNTY, S.C. — The families of two young women killed in a tragic crash involving a suspected drunk driver are speaking out, urging others to make safer choices behind the wheel. Claire Ann Pierce, 22, and Eliza Jane Udy, 21, died Sunday night in a collision that South Carolina Highway Patrol says was caused by an intoxicated driver at the intersection of Neely Wingard and Ben Franklin roads. “I don't get to watch her have a baby.
Family remembers Breanna Bates amid Newberry shooting investigation

2 weeks ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

NEWBERRY, S.C. — The family of a woman fatally shot in broad daylight in Newberry is speaking out as police continue investigating the deadly incident. Breanna Bates, 25, was killed Monday afternoon after being struck by gunfire. She was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Her mother, Rebecca Gary, is calling for an end to gun violence. “When is it gonna stop? When is the guns gonna be put down and when is the violence gonna stop?” Gary asked.
Orangeburg eyes revitalization: Rezoning plan aims to ease student housing deficit

2 weeks ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

ORANGEBURG, S.C. — A proposed development near Edisto Memorial Gardens could soon help ease a growing student housing shortage in Orangeburg, particularly for students attending South Carolina State University and Claflin University. City officials are considering a plan to rezone property at the corner of Russell Street and Elmwood Street. The proposal, which received first-reading approval from city council, is expected to face a second reading Tuesday.
Columbia Gardens tenants voice concerns amid fire department inspection

2 weeks ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

COLUMBIA, S.C. — Frustration is mounting among residents of Columbia Gardens Apartments in Columbia, where tenants say they’ve been living in unsafe and deteriorating conditions for months. Now, after repeated complaints, the city’s fire department has stepped in to investigate. Columbia Fire Chief Aubrey D. Jenkins said inspectors recently conducted door-to-door checks at the complex to assess reported fire and safety violations.
The Brook breaks ground on 47,000-sq-ft expansion in Northeast Columbia

2 weeks ago | wltx.com | Victoria Samuels

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A major expansion project is underway in Northeast Columbia, where faith, community, and growth came together at a groundbreaking ceremony for The Brook, a local church and community hub. Applause and the sound of construction equipment began a new chapter for The Brook, which has long served as a spiritual and communal gathering place.