Columbia, SC (WLTX) - Sumter was given an honorable mention during the 33rd U.S. Conference of Mayors for being one of America's "most livable" cities with a population of 100,000 or more.
The award recognizes mayoral leadership in developing and implementing programs that improve the quality of life in America's cities. The award also focuses on the leadership, creativity, and innovation demonstrated by each mayors.
Sumter Mayor, Joseph McElveen, was recognized for his work in transforming an abandoned retail building into a state-of-the-art Health Sciences Center.
The Health Sciences Center has been successful in creating educational and job training opportunities.
This year's winning cities were selected by former mayors from a pool of over 200 applicants.