West Pelzer Mayor Won’t Seek Re-election in November

Greg Wilson/Anderson Observer

After eight years at the helm, the mayor of the “Upstate’s Front Porch” will not seek re-election in November.

West Pelzer Mayor Blake Sanders announced today that he is proud of the accomplishments the town has made during his years in office, and looking forward to new ways to serve the community in the future.

“Serving as the Mayor of West Pelzer is my greatest accomplishment,” said Sanders. “Being able to be at the forefront of a once desolate town to a vibrant rural community takes a lot of energy, commitment, and enthusiasm. A Mayor’s job is to be the chief storyteller and chief urban designer and I know that I have left West Pelzer better than I found it.”

Sanders, who runs Studio Main, a “Community-Oriented Landscape Architecture” firm, which helps local leaders impact their communities by designing spaces meant for collective expression and enjoyment. From small-town living to metropolitan cities, we are passionate about creating spaces where communities thrive.

The company has helped dozens of communities find innovative design and construction strategies for their streetscapes, trails and parks. His approach includes representing the stories of those who work, live and play in those towns.

Sanders has also served as a professor in the School of Architecture at Clemson University since 2018. and formerly served as Planning and Projects Director for the City of Easley.

“I am forever thankful for my beautiful wife, Ashley, and our children, Lane and Gracie, for standing with me through every late night, tough decision, and ribbing cutting,” said Sanders. “They are the reason that I have been successful in this role.”