Greenwood Council Chairman Resigns After Remarks

GREENWOOD COUNTY, S.C. Greenwood County Council Chairman Theo Lane stepped down from his post on Monday. The effective date for his departure is 2 p.m.

Lane served on the council for a decade before taking the chairmanship two years ago. Officials stated he made the decision to leave voluntarily.

His resignation follows remarks Lane made on September 21 at a Ware Shoals School District 51 meeting. During the session, he addressed residents who opposed a data center moratorium. Lane called the opponents “extremists” and said he received death threats.

Dayne Pruitt, the previous vice chairman, now holds the chairman title. Officials confirm he will serve in the role for the remainder of the current term.

Pruitt told residents he is “humbled and honored” to take the position. He noted he will make mistakes but promised to do the job to the best of his ability.

The council will elect a new vice chairman to work alongside Pruitt. A new leadership vote for a two-year term is scheduled for January 5, 2027.