Matthews Center Board Sets March 24 Meeting in Denmark for Public

Torrance J. Davis, executive director of the Bamberg County Disabilities and Special Needs Board, presided over the organization's March 24 board meeting in Denmark, where more than 181 individuals and families across the county depend on the Matthews Center for intellectual and developmental disability supports.

The session convened at 11:00 a.m. in the Matthews Center boardroom at 16553 Heritage Highway, open to the public under the board's standard meeting policy, which reserves executive session only for personnel matters or sensitive client issues. The meeting was one of several publicly noticed sessions on the board's calendar running through mid-2026, each held at the same Denmark boardroom.

No itemized agenda was posted ahead of the meeting, but the board's regular business covers approval of prior minutes, Davis's executive director report, program and budget updates, and action on contract or procurement items. Those decisions carry direct weight across Bamberg County: board actions can alter local provider agreements, client eligibility criteria, transportation services, day program availability, and access to respite care. In a rural county with limited specialized provider options, a shift in any of those line items can disrupt care plans that families have built around the Matthews Center's services.

Any actions taken during the public portion of the March 24 session will be recorded in meeting minutes. Residents who were unable to attend can request those minutes or ask about upcoming agenda items by calling 803-793-5007. The center operates Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The board's next scheduled sessions give families and advocates additional opportunities to raise concerns directly before Davis and the board, particularly on questions of program budgets, staffing levels, and residential service availability.