Welsh joins Olanta Town Council

By Bradrick McClam
Lake City News & Post Reporter
Published: January 12, 2009

Mary R. Welsh said she has lived in Olanta since 1947 and has always been interested in politics.

“No one else was running, so I decided to run,” Welsh said. “I’ve always helped everyone else get into office, so now it’s time for me.”

“I’m glad she is on council now,” Olanta Mayor Betty Sims said.

Sims said she thinks Welsh will be a good council member and has always worked well with the town.

“She is very interested in politics,” Sims said.

This past Friday, more than 20 people gathered in the courtroom of the Olanta Municipal Services Building for the swearing-in ceremony for Welsh.

Welsh was elected to fill the unexpired term of Richard “Dickie” Kirby, who resigned in September. As the only candidate on the ballot, Welsh received 22 votes in the Jan. 6 special election, Florence County interim Voter Registration and Elections Director Steve Love told the Morning News. Two additional voters cast write-in ballots, Love said.

“I think she will do a good job,” said Olanta Mayor Pro Tem Willie Gallegos, who said she has known Welsh since 1990.

A graduate of Hannah High School, Welsh said before her election she has worked with the Olanta Centennial Committee, Olanta beautification committee and American Legion Auxiliary. She said for as long as she can remember, she has been a member of Olanta Baptist Church.

“She is a go-getter and does what it takes to get things done,” said Olanta resident Mary J. Powers, who has worked closely with Welsh on the town’s beautification committee.

Olanta resident Deborah Turbeville said she has known Welsh all her life and and that Welsh has always been active in the community.

Turbeville said she worked with Welsh on the town’s beautification committee and centennial committee.

“She has been an inspiration to me and be a great asset to council,” Turbeville said.

Welsh, a widow, is the mother of five children and grandmother of 12 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

“I have a big family,” she said.

Others in attendance were council members Dr. Sondra Holt and Robert Thompson, Olanta Police Chief Mark Strickland, and Town Clerk Tara Basye.

After the swearing-in ceremony, attendees enjoyed refreshments in the courtroom.