Subcommittee hears requests to maintain local government fund; state fiscal office seeks no change

At a legislative subcommittee meeting, representatives of county and municipal associations urged lawmakers to continue funding the state'local local government fund at the levels set by statute. "I wanted to thank you for your past support of the local of government fund and ask that you continue to do so this coming year," Weber Wilson of the South Carolina Association of Counties said.

Dana Phillips, speaking for the Municipal Association of South Carolina, made a similar appeal: "Follow the statutory prescribed formula" and continue funding the local government fund as the statute directs.

Frank Rainwater, executive director of fiscal affairs for the state'level revenue office, told the committee "we're not requesting any changes" to the office's funding or statutory scope and outlined the office's responsibilities, including revenue forecasting, GIS and 911 coordination, Census preparation and data sharing. Rainwater said the office focuses on cost efficiencies and supports local governments through data and technical services.

Committee members asked clarifying questions about the requests. The chair asked Weber Wilson whether counties were seeking additional money or merely maintenance of current funding; Wilson answered they sought continuation per statute. No formal vote or motion was taken on funding during the meeting.

The committee adjourned after speakers completed their statements.