Richland leaders say they will make penny tax changes state revenue officials demand

Richland County leaders reacted Friday to an update letter from the state Department of Revenue regarding its audit of the transportation penny sales tax program, saying in a news release that the county is assessing the program and willing to make adjustments.

“When first contacted about the audit, we responded in a timely manner and provided documentation and other information requested,” the county said in a statement. “While we respect the points of inquiry made by DOR, we also recognize that any program – especially one of this scope – should undergo regular assessments and make changes as necessary. And we are taking steps to do just that.”

In an interview with The State newspaper Friday afternoon, County Council Chairman Torrey Rush echoed the county’s willingness to make changes to the program. The revenue department in the letter told the county it must take several actions, including repayment of some penny tax funds already spent, or face punishment.

“We do take heed that DOR has taken a look at these projects, and they’ve got some concerns,” Rush said. “The things that need to be changed, ... we’re going to do that, not only for the viability of the program, but also for the trust of the public.”