By Senator Kent Williams
As the legislative session continues, we have discussed the state’s budgeting and finances. This year’s budget includes numerous components that are being carefully evaluated to determine how they will impact both the state of South Carolina and you, the constituents of Senate District 30. As your Senator, I am committed to keeping you informed and maintaining transparency regarding all matters.
In previous years, our community has received funding from the state budget for Community Improvement Projects (CIP). These funds have historically played a vital role in supporting projects that improve the local infrastructure, create new opportunities for residents, and enhance the quality of life within our community. Unfortunately, the Senate Finance Committee passed out a budget that does not allocate these funds, as adjustments have been made to accommodate changes in other areas.
The decision made by the Senate Finance Committee to lower the state’s income tax from 6.2% to 6% has significant implications for each of our communities. For instance, as a result of this decision, the funds for Community Improvement Projects will no longer be available this budget year. While it is difficult to see these funds not go to well deserving projects within our communities, the Senate Finance Committee believes that this reduction in income tax change will benefit South Carolina’s people.
There are long-term effects of this decision that could reverberate throughout our community for years to come. Without these funds, the county may face delays in areas involving the expansion of services, addressing aging infrastructure, and even supporting sustainable community growth. While it is my hope this tax reduction will provide financial relief to South Carolinians, its impact remains to be seen.
Serving as your Senator continues to be an honor, and I will express that often as I fight for what I believe is best for our community. I have been proud to help secure CIP funding for our district since 2005 and will continue to advocate for these funds to be restored. In the meantime, it is important to remember that this decision is just one part of a larger process. While the Senate has decided to move forward with this change, the budget must still pass through the Senate vote, the House of Representatives, and ultimately, the Governor’s approval. Throughout this process, the budget may be subject to further changes.
As your Senator, I will continue to advocate for our community, and push for measures that best serve your interests. I will listen to information presented both in favor of repealing and reforming this matter. It is an honor to serve you in Columbia, and I am grateful for your continued support. As with all matters concerning state government, I want to hear your opinions and suggestions concerning these issues. Please contact me in my Columbia office located at 602 Gressette Office Building. You can reach me, or a member of my staff in Columbia at (803) 212-6000 or by fax at (803) 212-6011. My district office is located at 2523 East Highway 76, Marion, SC 29571, the phone number is (843) 423-8237 and the fax number is (843) 431-6049. You may also email me at KENTWILLIAMS@scsenate.gov.
As always, I also want to supply you with my business phone number so that you will able to reach me easily at any time. My business phone is (843) 423-3904. Please use this information to write, call or email me with your suggestions and concerns regarding issues before the Senate and in our community.
Senator Kent Williams On The Budget
