Chapin SC, January 9, 2026
Chapin, South Carolina, has undergone a significant administrative restructuring that includes the elimination of its Town Administrator position. This change comes as Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr. transitions to a full-time mayoral role, a shift aimed at aligning the town’s operations with new governance models. The Town Council’s unanimous decision reflects the mayor’s campaign promise and marks a new chapter in local leadership amid ongoing investigations involving the mayor. Concerns also arise over the proposed Brighton Planned Development, which has been postponed due to community issues regarding traffic and school capacity.
Chapin Undergoes Significant Administrative Restructuring Amidst New Leadership and Key Policy Shifts
Chapin, South Carolina, has experienced a pivotal period of administrative change and policy reevaluation, marked most notably by the recent elimination of its Town Administrator position. This significant organizational restructuring took place following a special-called Town Council meeting in late November, ushering in a new era of governance under Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr., who will now serve as a full-time mayor. The decision, which was unanimously approved by the Town Council, reflects a commitment to align operations with this new model of leadership.
The Town Administrator role, previously held by Nicholle Burroughs since its inception in 2022, was responsible for human resources and daily operations. Its removal signifies a direct fulfillment of a campaign promise made by Mayor Mitchell, who secured the mayoral seat on November 4, 2025, with approximately 68% of the vote. This change transitions Chapin to its first full-time mayor, signifying a shift in the town’s executive structure.
Special Called Meetings and Executive Decisions
The administrative changes were deliberated during a series of special-called meetings. On November 20, 2025, the Town Council convened a special meeting to address a range of critical issues, including personnel matters, contractual matters, legal claims, and to receive legal advice. Additionally, the agenda included discussions of investigative proceedings regarding allegations of criminal misconduct. These discussions were conducted in executive session, closed to the public, in accordance with South Carolina Code Section 30-4-70 (a)(1), (a)(2), and (a)(4).
Just a day prior to the announcement regarding the Town Administrator position, on November 25, 2025, the future of the role remained uncertain following a three-hour closed-door meeting of the Town Council, which was the second such meeting within a week. The subsequent unanimous vote to eliminate the position effectively resolved this uncertainty.
Mayor Mitchell’s Transition and Related Investigations
Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr.’s assumption of office also occurred under unusual circumstances. He was sworn in on November 7, 2025, just three days after his election, earlier than the customary January timeline for newly elected officials. This early swearing-in led to questions regarding adherence to standard procedures. Mitchell stated he consulted the State Municipal Association and the Attorney General’s office, claiming he received written affirmations that his decision was within state law, though he did not share these documents.
Adding to the complexities of the leadership transition, Mayor Mitchell is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED). This investigation stems from an alleged assault that reportedly occurred at the town hall on November 7, 2025, the very day he was sworn into office. Mitchell has acknowledged the ongoing investigation but has not publicly commented on the specifics of the allegation, which reportedly involved a town employee alleging he “grabbed her by the shoulders.” The Town of Chapin has stated its full cooperation with SLED.
Planning Commission Delays Key Development Project
In separate but equally impactful news for the town’s future, the Chapin Planning Commission, an advisory board to the Town Council, voted on November 13, 2025, to postpone its decision on the proposed Brighton Planned Development. This project aims to introduce 377 new homes to the Chapin area. The delay marks another setback for the development, which has been under discussion for over a year.
The commission’s decision was influenced by concerns raised by both residents and commissioners regarding the potential impacts of the large-scale neighborhood. Specific issues highlighted included increased traffic congestion and the strain on already crowded local schools, particularly the Lexington-Richland School District Five. Commissioners expressed frustration that developers had not yet provided all requested information, including a comprehensive traffic study and communication regarding enrollment impacts, which had been requested back in July. Developers indicated that a traffic study alone could take several months to complete, delaying any further consideration of the project until all necessary information is submitted. The Planning Commission, which meets on the first Tuesday of every month, makes recommendations to the Town Council on zoning and annexation issues and reviews new subdivisions.
Broader Policy Initiatives Under New Leadership
Beyond the administrative restructuring and development decisions, Mayor Mitchell has also initiated other key policy reviews. Upon taking office, he implemented a hold on new sewer tap permits and connections. This measure was deemed necessary to conduct a comprehensive review of the sewer system’s existing capacity, assess any maintenance backlogs, and analyze future growth projections. Upgrading the town’s wastewater treatment plant has been identified as a top priority for his administration.
This period of transition signifies a robust re-evaluation of Chapin’s operational framework and development strategies, aiming to align the town’s future with the vision of its new leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most significant recent administrative change in Chapin?
Chapin recently eliminated its Town Administrator position, transitioning to a model where Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr. serves as a full-time mayor.
When was Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr. elected and sworn into office?
Mayor Bill Mitchell Jr. was elected on November 4, 2025, and was sworn into office on November 7, 2025.
Why was the Town Administrator position eliminated?
The elimination of the Town Administrator position was a unanimous decision by the Town Council, fulfilling a campaign promise by Mayor Mitchell, and reflecting a new model of governance.
Is Mayor Mitchell currently under any investigation?
Yes, Mayor Mitchell is currently under investigation by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) regarding an alleged assault that reportedly occurred at the town hall on November 7, 2025.
What is the status of the Brighton Planned Development in Chapin?
The Chapin Planning Commission voted on November 13, 2025, to postpone its decision on the proposed Brighton Planned Development due to concerns about traffic, crowded schools, and incomplete information from developers.
What other policy initiatives has Mayor Mitchell introduced?
Mayor Mitchell implemented a hold on new sewer tap permits and connections to review the sewer system’s capacity, maintenance, and growth projections, with wastewater treatment plant upgrades being a top priority.
Key Features of Chapin’s Recent Administrative and Policy Changes
| Feature | Description | Date of Event/Decision | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elimination of Town Administrator Position | Chapin Town Council unanimously voted to remove the Town Administrator role, transitioning to a full-time mayor model. | November 26, 2025 | Local (Chapin, SC) |
| New Mayor Sworn In | Bill Mitchell Jr. elected Mayor and sworn into office earlier than the usual timeline. | November 4, 2025 (Election) November 7, 2025 (Sworn In) |
Local (Chapin, SC) |
| SLED Investigation of Mayor Mitchell | South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is investigating Mayor Mitchell for an alleged assault. | November 7, 2025 (Alleged Incident) | State-level (South Carolina) |
| Special-Called Town Council Meetings | Meetings held to discuss personnel matters, contractual matters, legal claims, and investigative proceedings, mostly in executive session. | November 20, 2025 | Local (Chapin, SC) |
| Brighton Planned Development Postponement | Chapin Planning Commission delayed a decision on a 377-home development due to concerns over traffic, schools, and incomplete information. | November 13, 2025 | Local (Chapin, SC) |
| Sewer Permit Moratorium | Mayor Mitchell initiated a hold on new sewer tap permits and connections for system review and upgrades. | Post-November 7, 2025 (Upon taking office) | Local (Chapin, SC) |
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Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington 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 Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. 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, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
