Gaffney business spray-painted, message potentially directed at mayor

GAFFNEY, S.C. (WSPA) – A little less than two weeks ago, Lyman Dawkins III was elected mayor of Gaffney.

Dawkins III made history by becoming the city’s first Black mayor.

Since his historic win, a business has been boarded up and spray-painted. One phrase says “Welcome to Dawkinsville.” Another says “Back in 4 years when the circus is gone.”

Other businesses nearby expressed discomfort with the message.

“It doesn’t look good, it’s just not something that attracts people to downtown,” said Abe Duenas, the owner of Soled Out. “We have so many things that are going good for us, so to have something like this, it’s hard to argue it’s a step forward, it feels like it’s a step back.”

Business owners tell us they feel it creates a divide between one another.

“We’re trying to get everybody to be together as one and for all businesses to collaborate with each other,” said Hector Montes, co-owner of Hector’s Garden. “For the sake of everybody here downtown, it’s just not a good look.”

Some said tourists have even stopped to ask about the signs’ meaning.

“Instead of me talking about something positive, I have to talk about something I’d rather not,” said Duenas.

Moving forward, those in the area are hoping something is done about the signs.

“There’s no need for that negative publicity, if anything they should be bringing a good look to the town and it does not.” said Montes. “Hopefully that gets taken down and if anything, gets replaced with a nicer message or a more welcoming message.”

Both Mayor Dawkins and the Gaffney Police Department have not responded to 7NEWS’ request for a statement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.