NEWBERRY COUNTY — Newberry County recognized a handful of employees for their continued service to the county during the May 20 council meeting.
First to be recognized was Katie Werts for her five years of serving in Building and Zoning.
During her time with the county, Werts has served as zoning administrator, deputy building official, and now serves as the director of building and zoning. County Administrator Ted Luckadoo said that in each role, Werts has brought dedication, expertise, and a strong work ethic that has contributed greatly to the success of the department and the services provided to the citizens of Newberry County.
Luckadoo added that Werts’ commitment to her profession is further demonstrated by her achievement of the highest certification offered through the International Code Council as a Master Code Professional, a distinction that reflects extensive knowledge, experience, and dedication to the building and code enforcement profession.
Jessica Osborne was also recognized for five years of service with the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office.
Osborne began her career with the Newberry County Magistrate’s Office on May 5, 2021, where she quickly became a valued member of the team through her professionalism, hard work, and commitment to public service.
While serving in the Magistrate’s Office, Osborne worked closely with magistrate judges and law enforcement officers to help manage the disposition of court caseloads and ensure the efficient operation of the office. In November 2025, Jessica transitioned into her current role as the E911 clerk with the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office. In this position, she assists the Newberry County E911 director with assigning addresses for Newberry County citizens, helping to support emergency response operations and public safety throughout the county.
“Jessica’s dedication, attention to detail, and willingness to serve wherever needed have made her an important asset to both the Magistrate’s Office and the Sheriff’s Office,” Luckadoo said.
Edward “Ed” Knowles was recognized by council for five years of service with the sheriff’s office. Major Ben Chapman recognized both officers.
“After retiring from a previous career, Ed chose to continue serving others by beginning a second career in law enforcement, where he became a trusted and valued member of the agency,” he said. “Ed currently oversees courtroom security operations for Magistrate, Family, and General Sessions Court, helping to ensure the safety, security, and orderly operation of each court proceeding. Through his professionalism, reliability, and commitment to service, he plays an important role in supporting the judicial process and serving the citizens of Newberry County.”
Chapman added that Knowles is known as a dependable, by-the-book employee who can always be counted on to handle his responsibilities professionally and to ensure the job is done the right way.
Along with Knowles Captain Michael Stribble was recognized for 25 years with the sheriff’s office.
Stribble began his career with the sheriff’s office in 2001 and faithfully serves the citizens of Newberry County in a variety of important roles throughout his career. Over the years, he has served as a road patrol deputy, school resource officer, narcotics investigator, lieutenant over investigations, and currently serves as captain overseeing investigations and victim services.
“Throughout his career, Michael has played an integral role in the operations of the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, consistently demonstrating professionalism, dedication, and a strong commitment to providing the highest level of service to the citizens of Newberry County. His leadership and experience have made him a tremendous asset to the Sheriff’s Office and to this community,” Chapman said. “Law enforcement service runs deep in the Stribble family. Michael’s father, Dean Stribble, also dedicated his career to serving Newberry County and retired from the Sheriff’s Office after 32 years of service.”
Last to be recognized was Shannon Murphy for 30 years with the Newberry County Auditor’s Office. Newberry County Auditor Donna Lominack highlighted Murphy’s 30 year career.
“Shannon Murphy came to work at the Newberry County Auditor’s Office on May 1, 1996, and yes, that has been 30 years. I remember the day she came because I loved her red hair. She is a conscientious employee and knowledgeable about the office,” Lominack said. “Her cool, calm, and collected personality works great with taxpayers. Most likely, if you call the Newberry County Auditor’s Office, she is the person that will answer the phone. That is only one of her many duties as she handles our monthly vehicle renewals, exempt vehicles, merchant charges, and works at the front counter when needed. She is always willing to help a fellow employee. The Newberry County Auditor’s Office is proud to have Shannon on our team.”
Other business:
• Ben Setzler and Daniel Nicholson with the Newberry Soil and Water Conservation different spoke before Council and informed them of the good news within the district, ranging from grants that have been rewarded an upcoming camp opportunities for the community.
• Council unanimously passed the third reading of an ordinance providing appropriations for the Fiscal Year 2026/27 Budget.
• A motion was unanimously passed to revert the first reading of an ordinance rezoning property at 7372 U.S. Highway 765, Prosperity, to the Joint Planning Commission to receive legal advice. The proposed use of this property is for a potential convenience store/gas station. The rezoning consists of one acre and is requesting to be rezoned from IND-Industrial to GC-General Commercial.
• Council unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance rezoning property at the corner of Wise Street and Wilson Road from GC-General Commercial to R2-Rural for a residence. The property was previously rezoned to operate a car lot that did not work out so the owner has requested to rezone the property again.
• The first reading of an ordinance rezoning property located at 5576 SC Highway 121-34 from R2-Rural to RS-Single Family Residential was passed in a 5-2 vote.
• Council unanimously passed the first reading of an ordinance accepting Goggans Court and Fawn Court into the Newberry County Roads System.
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