Charleston County came up $6 million short with next year’s budget. However, instead of making its people pay the difference, County Council has decided to use its rainy day fund. Residents are happy to see that the city decided against raising taxes.
It took Charleston County Council many hours over several weeks to reach an agreement. The proposed tax hike would increase taxes for a $250,000 home by nearly $20 per year. Instead, the funds will come from the rainy day fund, which is money used for debris cleanup after a natural disaster.
Critics feel that the past Gulf oil catastrophe is a prime example of why the city needs to maintain a disaster fund. However, after the $6 million shortfall is subtracted from the rainy day fund, over $24 million will remain in the account which is more than enough to cover future problems.
Council also voted in favor of a variety of fee increases. Some of the areas affected are Stormwater Management, Sheriff’s Department fees, Zone Planning fees, mobile home fees, and many others.
The good news for homeowners is that they are safe from any additional fees this year thanks to the creative minds in the Charleston County Council.
