Here’s a recap of Greenville County Council’s April 21 meetings:
Proposed: $473.5M budget for fiscal year 2027
Council got its initial look at the 2027 fiscal year budget proposal of $473.5 million at its Committee of the Whole meeting prior to the main council meeting.
County Administrator Joe Kernell provided a high-level overview of the budget proposal to the council and highlighted several elements of the $286.6 million general fund budget, including:
- An average 2.5% salary increase for all employees with an additional 2.5% increase for public safety positions
- $27.5 million for the county’s road program
- $21.94 million for capital projects
- $1 million for affordable housing
- $1.5 million for the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust
- $3.1 million for economic development programs
Since this was the council’s first look at the administration’s spending proposal, no action was taken. During a brief discussion, council expressed the desire to ensure the budget document included language reflecting council’s recent statement of strategic priorities.
Chairman Benton Blount (District 19) said in the coming days he would schedule budget work sessions where council members would be able to offer input on the spending plan.
Council must approve the three required readings for a budget ordinance before the fiscal year ends June 30.
Approved: Resolution opposing SCDOT restructuring
Council unanimously approved a resolution expressing Greenville County Council’s opposition to a bill moving through the South Carolina House of Representatives that, among other things, could transfer state roads to counties and municipalities.
The resolution opposes House Bill 5071, specifically language amending Section 12, Chapter 5, Title 57 of the state code of laws proposing the transfer of “non-essential” state roads to local jurisdictions.
Although the bill’s current language suggests the transfer would have to be agreed to by both parties, council’s concern is counties like Greenville would be saddled with thousands of miles of road maintenance needs without the funding to pay for it.
Instead, the resolution contends, the bill would give counties and municipalities “permission” to raise property taxes to pay for roads, thus transferring the political cost of such a move from the state to local elected leaders.
While the resolution is not binding, it is intended to convey to state lawmakers Greenville County Council’s formal opposition to H.5071.
