March 2025

NEWS

SCAC Welcomes Newly Elected Countywide Officials During Inaugural Orientation

The inaugural Newly Elected Countywide Officials Orientation was hosted by SCAC this month for those who have been recently elected to serve as county auditor, treasurer, clerk of court, coroner, probate judge, register of deeds or sheriff.

The event, similar to the orientation held late last year for newly elected county council members, included overviews of the State Ethics Government Accountability and Campaign Reform Act, county budget processes and regulations and an introduction to the resources and services available through SCAC.

The daylong session also featured a panel of county officials from Anderson and Lancaster counties, who shared their insights on building effective working relationships in county government.

Hear more from the panel and read more about this year's orientation.

Berkeley County EMS Apprenticeship Program Benefits Veterans, Community

Contributed by Jenna-Ley Walls, Berkeley County Public Information Officer

From the front lines of combat to the front lines of community emergencies, transitioning from the military to civilian world is no easy task; but it’s a challenge many in our communities are facing. This is especially true throughout the Charleston region, where the military sector is a prominent part of the area’s history and fabric.  

Capitalizing on this reality and the desire to meet the needs of both our veterans and community members, Berkeley County worked with state leaders to craft a unique pilot program for its Emergency Medical Services (EMS).

The EMS Military Apprenticeship Program places military combat medics on a fast- track path to career success as paramedics with Berkeley County EMS. Hired veterans endure a rigorous 22-week training course, rather than the 13-month industry standard. 

“This expedited training allows veterans to utilize all the advanced training and experience received in the military to the benefit of the people in their communities,” said state Rep. Sylleste Davis (R-Berkeley).  

Read more about the program and hear from current program participants.

Counties Earn Emergency Management Honors

From left: Jacob Starnes, Saluda County Council Chairman Jim Moore and Josh Morton

Saluda County is proud to share two recognitions that showcase the dedication and service of first responders who tirelessly protect the community. Emergency Management Director Josh Morton has been named the South Carolina Emergency Management Association’s Emergency Management Director of the Year, and Saluda County EMS was honored as the South Carolina EMS Association’s Small Service of the Year. Morton, EMS Director Jacob Starnes and their teams were honored at a recent Saluda County Council meeting. 

"These prestigious awards reflect their outstanding leadership, commitment to safety, and unwavering care for our residents," said Public Information Officer Rachel Porter. "Saluda County is deeply grateful for their service and is proud to have such remarkable individuals and teams serving our community.

Above: The Anderson County Emergency Management Division command center served as a communication hub during Hurricane Helene. Below: Anderson County Emergency Management water rescue crew runs training exercises.

The Anderson County Emergency Management Division has been recognized as the 2024 SC Emergency Management Agency of the Year. The award highlights the agency's exceptional commitment to safeguarding the community through emergency planning, response, and recovery by the South Carolina Emergency Management Association.

While South Carolina endured Hurricane Helene in September 2024, Anderson County Emergency Management remained the calm, consistent and instructive voice providing "up to the minute" information, prioritizing the safety and well-being of the county. The agency successfully coordinated a monumental mobilization effort of resources between local, state and federal agencies. They coordinated with the National Guard and set up easy to access water, meal and donation sites. The crisis forced the team to reach a new caliber of efficiency, while learning where to close any gaps in their emergency response plan.

“It’s an honor to receive this award any calendar year, but especially when the largest hurricane on record hit our state,” Director Josh Hawkins said. “We as a community are resilient because of the relationships built ahead of the storm. I’m very proud of our team and the countless hours they worked. They knew the severity of the aftermath and their work ethic was nothing short of extraordinary. It’s honor to work alongside such committed individuals.”

FY 2025-26 Millage Rate Increase Limitations Released, 3-Year Lookback Available Online

The South Carolina Office of Revenue and Fiscal Affairs has released county millage rate limitations for FY 2025-26.

The millage rate increase limitation for FY 2026 will be the total of the percentage increase in your county's population estimate from 2023 to 2024 plus the 2.95% CPI. For purposes of the millage cap, if your county's population decreased, you are deemed to have zero population growth for FY 2025-26.

Read more about the updated rate limitations.

If you have any questions, please call Susan Turkopuls or Victoria Dixon at 1-800-922-6081.

Economic Interests Filing Deadline 3/30

The clock is ticking. Statements of Economic Interests are due March 30.

If you are a county council member or serve as your county’s chief financial officer or chief administrative official (county administrator, county supervisor, or some other similar title), you are required to file a Statement of Economic Interests.

if you have questions or need assistance, contact the State Ethics Commission at (803) 253-4192.

Coming Soon! Annual Conference Registration

Stay tuned to your inbox for registration details for the 2025 Annual Conference and Institute of Government for County Officials, which be held at Wild Dunes Resort on Isle of Palms. This year's event begins Aug. 4 with Institute classes and wraps up the evening of Aug. 6 with the closing reception.

Registration will open in the next few weeks. Remember, county officials must register for the event prior to receiving a room reservation link.

NACo AI Leadership Academy Begins April 7

The National Association of Counties Artificial Intelligence (AI) Leadership Academy is an innovative program designed to equip frontline county government leaders with the knowledge and tools to understand and utilize AI, enhancing operational efficiency, organizational effectiveness and value for constituents.

The next cohort of the six-week program is set to begin April 7, and the program cost is $595 per enrollee for NACo member counties. Additional discounts and scholarships may be available.

For more information or to enroll, visit the NACo AI Leadership Academy website or email lukea@pdaleadership.com.

GRANT CENTRAL STATION

SCDOT Transportation Alternatives Program Workshop Set for March 31

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) will host an in-person application workshop for potential applicants to the Transportation Alternatives Program from 10 a.m. to noon March 31 in Columbia and via livestream. The program allows local governments to apply for grants for a variety of non-motorized transportation projects

A recording of the workshop will be available online after the presentation.

Learn more on SCDOT's website or contact Amy Blinson, Transportation Alternatives Program manager at blinsonal@scdot.org or (803) 737-1952

USC Center Offers Free Technical Assistance

The South Carolina Thriving Communities Technical Assistance Center at the University of South Carolina can help your county find grant opportunities and provides grant-writing technical assistance.

The center is a statewide, no cost technical assistance provider to local governments looking to apply for funding (typically for environmental solutions to infrastructure and community development challenges). It also hosts a monthly Grant Readiness and Empowerment Training. See the schedule and get more details.

SCAC ON SOCIAL MEDIA

📢 March 1 is Public Risk Management Awareness Day! 🛡️

Counties face unique risks every day, and a strong risk management program is key to protecting both people and resources. SCAC’s risk management staff works hard to help counties reduce liability and create safer workplaces through seminars, safety audits and more.

A well-managed risk program means lower premiums, safer environments and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. 💰👏

👏 Thank you to SCAC’s risk management team and county professionals across South Carolina for your dedication to fiscal stability, safety and smart risk management!

🌟 Congratulations to Georgetown County, S.C. for earning two prestigious Risk Management Awards from the SC Counties Insurance Trusts! 👏

🏆 Outstanding Safety Achievement Award - Recognizing the county’s work with the fire department including updating job descriptions to accurately reflect physical demands of the jobs. The team—which included Risk Manager Holley Laycock, Georgetown County Fire & EMS Fire Chief Jim Falkenhagen, Assistant Fire Chief Aaron Bostic and Midway Fire Rescue Fire Chief Brent McClellan—also developed a career training matrix to be used for all positions.

🏆 Sustained Excellence in Risk Management Award – Honoring their ongoing commitment to meeting and exceeding all Basic Risk Management Standards.

It’s a great time to be in Florence County SC!

We are excited to share that Florence County has been selected to be part of the Public Television program, “Discover America: Great Places to Live, Work, and Start a Business.” 🎉

Here’s what’s in store for Florence County:

📺 A feature on the Viewpoint Project, hosted by Dennis Quaid, showcasing Florence County’s vibrant community, thriving economy, and business-friendly environment. This will run on 170+ Public Television stations across the U.S. for a year!

We’re excited to be celebrate Florence County as a prime place for residents and entrepreneurs alike! 🌟

Watch the Viewpoint segment: https://bit.ly/FlorenceViewpoint

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