PICKENS, S.C. —

Pickens city councilmembers determined Mayor Isaiah Scipio acted out of procedure following a tense executive session on Tuesday, while leaving ongoing disputes concerning SLED and accusations of criminal misconduct off the docket for discussion.

The special-called meeting was scheduled in reference to claims against Scipio, citing he did not consult council in the hiring process of a city clerk, which typically involves their input.

Shortly after the meeting started, councilmembers attempted a motion to approve the new clerk's appointment in public session. The motion received pushback from Councilmember Jonathan Baker.

"You can't make a motion on that?" The mayor asked. "No, you cannot do that, it's not on the agenda tonight. You should know about procedures. You should learn them. You represent the council," Baker said. "Don't be condescending," the mayor responded.

After an hour behind closed doors, council reconvened with Scipio admitting to fault.

"Council has determined that the procedure was not right because I did not come back to them before an agreement had been signed. We came together and talked. In adversity, that's when unity really shines," Scipio said.

Scipio denied WYFF News 4's additional requests for comment following the meeting.

"We were hiring for a city clerk position. We still are, technically. His explanation was that there was a misunderstanding. He stepped out of his capacity and recognized the situation. And it will be placed...

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