At the most recent Newberry County Council meeting, Friendly Fire Department (Station 1) and the Newberry County Rescue Squad (Station 14) were recognized as part of a longstanding tradition to highlight our volunteer departments and the vital service they provide to our community.
Emergency Services Coordinator Brandon Wicker recognized the Newberry County Rescue Squad, noting the department is staffed with 27 members, including five Fire Academy Certified Instructors and four American Heart Association AED Instructors. Station 14 covers approximately 298 square miles, including 30 miles of Interstate 26. In addition to responding to 911 calls, Station 14 provides coverage for all high school athletic events within their district, all Newberry College football games, and serves as the primary medical provider for the Spartan Race since they began in Newberry.
Chief Joe Palmer recognized Friendly Fire Department, which has proudly served the community since 1963 and currently has 24 volunteer members. In 2025, the department responded to 298 calls for service.
Newberry County Council extends a heartfelt thank you to these dedicated volunteers for their unwavering commitment and service to the people of Newberry County.
The Newberry County Mulch Facility is once again fully operational.
Yard debris can be disposed of at the mulch grinding facility at 270 Public Works Drive, Newberry, Monday-Friday, 7:30 p.m. until 4 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m.
Happy 2026 from Newberry County Government! We hope everyone has a safe and prosperous New Year. Please note that county offices are closed today, January 1, 2026.
Newberry County Council had the distinct honor of recognizing four Newberry County employees during the final meeting of 2025.
Crystal Houseal was recognized for 10 years of service with the Newberry County Detention Center. County Administrator Jeff Shacker shared the following remarks:
“Crystal joined the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office in 2015 as a corrections officer. She has progressed through the ranks to her current position as booking officer on a-shift.
“Crystal is hardworking and a loyal member of the detention center staff and is very much appreciated by Sheriff Lee Foster, Captain Daniel Floyd, and her colleagues.
“She also brings laughter and fun to her shift, which is a wonderful gift.”
Judge Ron Halfacre was recognized for 20 years of service with Newberry County Central Court. County Administrator Jeff Shacker had this to say:
“Judge Halfacre began his career with Newberry County Central Court in 2005 and has served as chief magistrate since 2017.
“He has a strong work ethic and is known for his integrity and deep commitment to justice. He is widely respected for his knowledge of the law and has built a reputation as a fair and compassionate judge.
“Ron doesn’t just bring professionalism and knowledge to the courthouse; he also brings a great sense of humor.”
Les Bickley (not pictured) was recognized upon his retirement after 15 years of service with Newberry County Public Works. County Administrator Jeff Shacker shared:
“Les joined the Newberry County Public Works Department in 2010 as a driver/operator. He gained proficiency on every piece of equipment in Public Works and quickly became one of our best drivers and haulers.
“When the role of sign manager became available, Les took on those additional duties and excelled while balancing his driver/operator responsibilities. He also later assumed maintenance duties at the Newberry County Airport and is one of the most knowledgeable members of our staff.
“Les is dependable, dedicated, and plays an important role in our organization.”
Pete Johnson was recognized for his retirement from the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office after more than 30 years of service. County Administrator Jeff Shacker remarked:
“Pete came to work for the county in the early 1990s and has honorably served the public in many capacities, including telecommunications deputy, deputy sheriff, lieutenant, and his current rank of captain.
“Captain Johnson has demonstrated a high level of dedication, loyalty, and integrity throughout his more than three decades of service as a public safety officer.
“His guidance, professionalism, and steady presence have made a lasting impact on the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, and we greatly appreciate his many years of sacrifice and devotion.”
Thank you to all our recognized employees for their dedication, service, and hard work!