Meet the candidates for Richland County Council in the June primaries

Whatever happens in the June 9 primary, Richland County Council will see at least one new face when it convenes next year.

District 8, stretching across the Northeast portion of Richland County, has three candidates running in the Democratic primary to succeed outgoing Councilman Jim Manning, who is stepping down after 12 years on the council. Voters will instead choose between former state employee and real estate broker Wayne Gilbert, local businessman Hamilton Grant and attorney Overture Walker for the position.

The winner will face Republican Gary Dennis in November.

The open seat in District 8 is just one of several competitive races for Richland County Council on the June 9 ballot. Four other incumbents face Democratic primary challengers.

In District 2, Councilwoman Joyce Dickerson faces a challenge from Blythewood town official Derrek Pugh. Councilwoman Gwen Kennedy will face Gretchen Barron and Richard Brown in the District 7 Democratic primary. Calvin “Chip” Jackson is seeking re-election in District 9 against three other Democrats: Angela Gary Addison, Jonneika Farr and Jerry Rega. Councilwoman Dalhi Myers faces re-election against Jackie Bush and Cheryl English.

Below are the candidates’ answers to a questionnaire sent out by The State.

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2

Name: Joyce Dickerson

Age: 74

Education: Sophronia Tompkins High School in Savannah, Georgia; Savannah Technical College; Midlands Technical College; Benedict College

Political Experience:

a. Kingswood Precinct (President, Secretary, Treasurer and Executive Committee) actively engaged and served in all levels since 1982 until 1997; a precinct delegate. Richland County delegate, state delegate and a national delegate and alternate. I was a candidate for the South Carolina House of Representatives in 1996. I led the South Carolina Democratic Women Council from 1997-2004; reorganized the Richland County Democratic Women where I served as President for four years. I was elected to Richland County Council in 2004 where I’ve served since 2005. I was the South Carolina Democratic Nominee for the United State Senate 2014. I am a grassroots political organizer;

b. I have served on numerous boards and commissions; such as, Past Chair and Vice Chair of Richland County Council, current Chair of Administration and Finance Committee, Past Chair of Development and Service Committee and current Board member of Central Midlands Councils of Government; current Chair of the CMCOG Transportation Sub-Committee; Chair of Federal Communication Commission Intergovernmental Advisory Committee; Past President and Chair of the National Foundation of Women Legislators; Chair of the National Association of Counties Telecommunication & Technology Committee. A South Carolina Association of Counties appointee to NACo. Past Chair of the South Carolina Association of Counties Coalition of Counties. I was selected to serve on two humanitarian missions to Mumbai and New Delhi, India; a partnership mission to Tongxiang, China, to forge a partnership between China and Richland County accompanied by Carl Blackstone of the Columbia Chamber of Commerce and Chairman Paul Livingston. I also serve on the Multimodal Transportation Steering Committee appointed by Secretary Ray LaHood. Current President of the South Carolina Coalition of Black County Officials. I believe the opportunity to lead and/or be a part of the above mentioned are extraordinary skill-building experiences to be an effective leader for Richland County during these difficult times. The above mentioned also demonstrates that I am an extremely resourceful leader who can ensure the citizens of Richland County that they have a credible dependable member of Council with the necessary qualities to make sure their quality of life is not jeopardized.

Professional experience:

a. My major is accounting and management. My professional service is in the steel industry. I retired from a local firm as a Compliant Auditor. I have six years experience as a professional Legal Secretary. When I was elected to Richland County Council, I owned a small Independent Business Owner of which I terminated to be a full-time devoted councilwoman without any distractions.

Where did you grow up?

I’m a native of Savannah, Georgia.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

I think Richland County does an excellent job serving the needs of its citizens. We (I) care. We (I am) are concerned. We (I) listen and we (I) respond. Although the challenges we face since the penny referendum changed our trajectory to look for ways to engage in “best practices” for the past forward for the County. We (I) put our citizens first. We (I) provide services to help improve the citizens’ quality of life. We have a phenomenal Ombudsman who along with her staff to assist council with resolving the issues and/or reported of which concerns my constituents. So, I am confident that we (I) do a great job serving the citizens’ needs.

What do you think Richland County Council could do better?

Things perhaps Richland County should do better is communication. We are making every effort to work toward being more open, transparent, accountable, accessible to those we serve; as well as giving our constituency the opportunity for citizens’ input to voice their concerns of which we (I) make every effort to follow up with their expressed concerns.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects? I am pleased to report that Richland County, our Transportation Ad hoc Committee along with the Transportation Director have worked tirelessly to finally bring some resolution to this Penny Transportation Project. During a recent Transportation Workshop, Council were given an explicit report on which the information given assured me that we can resume work after vetting and making modifications to address all of the questions and concerns of council members and the citizens. I am confident that the public may still have questions; however, by bringing this project in-house is cost saving to demonstrate to the public that we worked hard to regain their trust.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

My trajectory concerning the $40 million dispute of which you reference is currently being mitigated to determine if that is in fact accurate. I have been in opposition to this allegation from the inception. I have always believed that this whole matter was biased which has been extremely costly for the taxpayers who should be outraged. I have been annoyed, frustrated and infuriated over this issue from the beginning. It has taken a significant amount of valuable time that has crippled the county’s growth and development; putting this county three years in the rears on projects like the Broad River Road Corridor, Neighborhood improvements (NIP); dirt roads’ paving and maintenance; and other projects which are in need of immediate revitalizing. We have a County Courthouse in dire straits. I will not support or consent to the distribution on any funds until it is determined that Richland County mismanaged the Transportation Penny Funds.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them? The top three issues are 1) The revitalization to address the increasing blight throughout the county especially along the Broad River Road Corridor affecting the surrounding communities and neighborhoods to include absentee landlords both residential and commercial. 2) the effects the COVID-19 pandemic has on families, small business and non-profits. The effect that this pandemic has on families is horrifying. I am committed to helping expedite expedient relief to help assure our citizens find solace in the fact that we care and that we are doing everything to restore normalcy as quickly as possible. 3) Land development and growth management especially in the northeast. I am convinced the Comprehensive Land/Use Development proposal will be a useful tool to address this matter. Over the past few years, I have worked tirelessly with communities and developers to find the best compromise by reducing the number of proposed development; thus, the 500 proposed residents were reduced to less than 225 and a proposed 400 plus was reduced to a maximum less than 200 for a total of 425 with emphasis on maximum of 250 foot buffers to protect the aesthetics of existing communities. I voted to support the industrial park in the town of Blythewood to avoid over 800 residential development for a sum total of over 1,275.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know? I want the voters to know that I am deeply concerned about the effects the COVID-19 pandemic is having on people around the world. The projected challenges that we face to navigate through these uncharted waters requires proven experience leadership. This is not a time for on-the-job training for an inexperienced individual without the necessary business, neighborhood and community resources to effectively address the “uncertainties” COVID-19 imposes. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones, many without having an opportunity to be by their sides to give them a hug; hold their hand and say goodbye. And there are those who have tested positive and/or are hospitalized in isolation facing uncertainties; please know that you are in my prayers. The effects of this pandemic require experienced leadership to assist with the navigation through these uncertain time.

We are in the middle of an uncertain crisis of which lives are at risk. The following information should prove that I am a resourceful, proven, dependable leader capable of helping to move this County forward.

I have faced numerous political challenges. Thus, I am pleased to report that during my tenure I have addressed 50,000 emails, attended 400 community/neighborhood meetings, addressed over 1,000 phone calls and countless text messages. Strongly engaged in community partnership and development through numerous civic organizations to include China and India.

I began my political career at the Kingswood precinct in 1982 where I have served on all offices including the executive committee. I am listed in the Library of Congress.

Married to retired Air Force SSgt. Matthew; together we have two children. Mark Dickerson and MeLicia (MeMe) Dickerson Spurgeon. A graduate of Midlands Tech and Benedict College. I am a retired Independent Business Owner and Compliance Auditor. Member of Christian Life Church (Assembly of God).

Name: Derrek L. Pugh

Age: 41

Education: B.A, Interdisciplinary Studies and M.A., Management and Leadership

Political experience: Former Vice Chair, Board of Zoning and Appeals for the Town of Blythewood. Current Commissioner for the Blythewood Planning Commission

Professional experience: Former Programming Supervisor for Richland County Recreation Commission. Current Deputy Director SC Youth Challenge Academy

Where did you grow up?

Dillon, SC, until I moved to Columbia to attend Benedict College.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Richland County is a great place to live, work and raise a family. Most recently, the financial support provided to small businesses through the county was a great move to maintain the economic health of the county.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

The county can do a better job of being transparent, especially related to the penny tax monies. In addition, representatives need to be more accessible to the people that they represent.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

The first step would be to identify where the monies have been allocated and what the status of the projects look like currently. The county council should look at how to cut costs without damaging the integrity of the projects. Also, the county should post reports monthly on the status of the projects (to the dollar) to provide a transparent look at how the money is being spent, and to note any challenges met along the way.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

The first item of business would be for council to be as honest as they can with the residents of Richland County. All of the articles I have read and budgets I have sorted through show that council knows where the $40 million comes from and what the problems were. The only thing left to do is accept responsibility for what has happened with the program and reach an agreement with DOR. Settling will take place when council votes on it and agrees to pay the $40 million back to the program. I would like to see this vote take place before I am in office; however, if it does not I will vote to settle with DOR right away. We cannot move these projects forward without a vote from council. They know what went wrong. It’s time to take responsibility, pay the program back and move on with construction. I don’t know one person in district 2, or the county for that matter, who wouldn’t like to see these roads projects back on track and finished.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

A Smart County, which focuses on infrastructure, job opportunities, housing, economic development, new business and entertainment. There are line items in the budget that provide support to the district and we need to talk to the residents to get a true understanding about how those dollars should be used.

A Healthier County, a healthcare collaboration with local healthcare providers in the county to offer healthcare opportunities to the residents of Richland County directly in their neighborhood. We have the technology and the ability to reach people where they are; we should do that.

Build a Comm“YOU”nity. This is the people’s district! No one owns districts or parts of the district. What will make our district better? The people will! We need to bring our county together. This district is big and has many areas included in it. We need to come together as one. This is our Comm”YOU”nity! It will take all of YOU to make a difference. Let me hear from YOU and serve YOU once YOU elect me!

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I am a newcomer to the elected office arena, but I am no stranger to public service. I have spent the 20 years of my life being a community advocate. I am ready to serve in this capacity and return this seat to the people of Richland County District 2.

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 7

Name: Gretchen Barron

Age: 43

Education: University of South Carolina

Political experience: Volunteered on several campaigns.

Professional experience: I am a native of South Carolina. I have been engaged in educational program implementation and management for nearly 20 years. I have served as a local educator, the Interim State Administrator for the 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program at the South Carolina Department of Education, and the Assistant Director of Program Development and Grants at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice, a Consultant for the United States Department of Education and Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention. Currently, my husband, James, and I own and operate Purposed Vision Consulting, LLC. Its primary function is to assist new and existing organizations to successfully navigate in developing a foundation that will align with its program and financial needs. In 2005, Barron Academy was established providing after-school programs, summer camps and one-on-one tutoring primarily to high-poverty, low-performing schools in South Carolina. Barron Academy began services with 12 students in one school district and now serves hundreds of students yearly in multiple school districts in the state of South Carolina.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Inman, SC (Spartanburg County) to Robert (deceased) and Sharon Durrah. I have three brothers (Eugene, Derwin, Douglas) and 1 sister (Kimberly).

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Richland County Council has done a good job in convening regularly scheduled meetings with live stream that allows the citizens to see and hear firsthand what takes place during the meetings. The YouTube platform is available to review past meetings, which helps one to stay well informed.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

I would like for Richland County Council to take a more of a visionary approach rather than a reactionary approach. There is an opportunity for growth in the area of research and planning. For example, the Richland County Renaissance Program purchased space in Columbia Place Mall and other locations, but years later no plan or execution has been made for the $8M spent on these properties. Another area for growth is to improve communication and dissemination of information to the citizens of their respective districts. There are some Council Members who do this well; however, I would like to see a more consistent effort being made. Citizens should not have to go on a witch hunt to find out what decisions are being made on their behalf. As a Richland County Council member, I will host quarterly listening sessions to bring back the information to the citizens and more importantly hear their concerns.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

Richland County should look at the projects to prioritize them based upon need, cost and completion dates. Projects close to being completed should be funded and not left unfinished. Once the County gets the final report on the project, it should evaluate and fund projects appropriately, noting that some projects in the original proposal may have to wait.

Secondly, the County should take greater ownership of the program. Meaning that the managerial responsibilities for this program should continue to rest within the control of Richland County. Following the recent audit, an internal department assumed management responsibilities for the program, expanded their staff and developed additional relationships with 16 on-call vendors. This program has the potential to set Richland County on an unstoppable path of growth and is too important to farm out.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

I am open to exploring the most feasible options to settling the outstanding debt. However, any option proposing the citizens of Richland County repay these funds in its entirety is out of the question. The recent events connected to COVID-19 have stressed the “purse straps” of many people and local business owners in the county. We must look at other options like selling vacant properties that have not been used or have no plan to be used. More importantly we should ask questions like, “How do we increase the involvement of local and small business into these projects” or “How do we ensure this never happens again?”

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

My priorities are threefold:

Education excellence—Providing equitable services to both Richland School Districts one and two, while hiring highly qualified and caring adults. Education excellence starts with improving the education system that creates a culture for students and teachers, so tell can excel.

Economic development—Development that supports local business and entrepreneurs, while balancing economic growth that is sustainable in the long term. We do not want to open local business just to close them 5 years later. Economic development should be synonymous with community development.

Leadership through integrity—I am committed to be an active voice in the community that leads with integrity and transparency. Eliminating waste and mismanagement of funds are basic practices we on our kitchen table deal with and the County Council must use for our District.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know? I am an educator, small business owner, community organizer and women’s advocate. I’ve been active in my community from a young college student at the University of South Carolina to owning my first home in Starks Terrace to bringing my sons home from the hospital. District 7 has been my home. The voters should know that I believe in transparency, integrity and accountability. As a Richland County Council member, I will host quarterly listening sessions that are designed to inform the citizens of decisions being made by County Council. This is my home and I am here to serve and work for a better Richland County.

Name: My name is Richard Brown and I’m a candidate for Richland County Council in District 7 and my goal is to earn your vote for A Better Richland County.

Education: I’m a graduate of Harvard University.

Political experience: For many years, as a member of the Richland County Coalition of Neighborhoods, I’ve advocated to eliminate neighborhood eyesores such as dumped tires, abandoned vehicles and commercial development in close proximity to housing. I strongly oppose excessive water and sewer fees and uninhibited utility rate hikes that tend to push citizens toward housing insecurity.

Professional experience: I’m employed professionally as an auditor for a government agency.

Where did you grow up?

New York

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Our brave Firefighters, Sheriff’s Department and county employees are dedicated and committed professionals who deserve our thanks for their work on behalf of the citizens of Richland County. The Council allows them to take every necessary step to protect and serve the county.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

The council should provide the public with more information on finance and budgetary matters. I would support an effort to publish the check register on the county website so that any citizen, at any time can see how the Council is spending and allocating tax money.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

The County should finish those projects that have launched and consummate referendum-specific road projects. The question is whether the Transportation Penny-Tax is an eternal or a circumscribed Tax.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

The question is whether the management company operated in a manner that violated the contract? I support paying only the money that is rightfully owed to the management company under the terms of the agreement. As we look forward into the summer of 2020, and according to the Wall Street Journal and CNBC, it is expected that 50% of restaurants and more than 30% of all businesses will go out of business. A cash-strapped county budget cannot easily afford to give away $40 million.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

I oppose virtually every vote my opponent, the incumbent candidate, has cast on behalf of citizens in District 7.

First, I would move to publish the check register on the county website, so citizens can see what the county is spending. It is hard to know if public funds are being properly allocated until we see where the money is being spent.

Second, I will focus on mitigating neighborhood nuisances such as overgrown vegetation, inoperable and junk vehicles, litter and debris, deteriorating fencing and graffiti. We want to forestall the property vacancy, abandonment cycle that immediately precedes blight.

Third, I would work on recruiting business and industry to Richland County. It is important to find out why other regions of South Carolina are flourishing and replicate their success. Google opened a half-billion dollar complex in Berkeley and Volvo invests one billion in a plant in Ridgeville and not Richland? We need to bring more industry to Richland County.

Because of the virus lockdown, the Wall Street Journal estimates that 30% of all businesses will fail by July 2020; and Richland already had its share of vacant commercial space and unoccupied retail in Richland Mall, Dutch Square and Columbia Place. We need to replicate the success we see in Horry, Charleston and the Upstate.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know? I have been truly blessed during this campaign to have met so many wonderful friends and neighbors; all of whom are interested in creating A Better Richland County.

The State did not receive responses from incumbent District 7 Councilwoman Gwen Kennedy (above).

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 8

Name: Wayne Gilbert

Age: 53

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics from the University of South Carolina and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration with a concentration in Public Management from Troy University

Political experience: Ran for County Council District 8 in 2016

Professional experience: In June 2018, I retired from Revenue & Fiscal Affairs (formerly the Budget and Control Board) with over 32 years experience in state government where I worked in the field of Research and Planning. While in state government, I worked to create and modify public policies, such as redistricting plans, election precinct boundaries, and incorporation proposals for new towns and cities. I am a small business owner, Broker-in-Charge of Palmetto Realty Services. As a Political Consultant I recently helped provide training, transportation and work for many college students and residents from the Transition Homeless Center during the SC Presidential Primary.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Florence, SC. However, I have lived in Columbia since 1984. I have resided in District 8 since 1992 (the Dentsville area from 1992–2001, and the Northeast area from 2001–present).

What do you think Richland County does well?

I feel Richland County Council did a good job in upgrading and remodeling the public libraries and recreation centers throughout the county. These efforts are beneficial to the citizens’ quality of life. The penny tax program improved the Comet transportation system, which increased routes, streamlined schedules, implemented technology and provided feeder vans to central bus stops.

What do you think Richland County should do better?

I feel Richland County Council could do a better job of supporting and revitalizing existing areas. The Council’s decisions to develop new areas sometimes contributes to the decline of existing areas and leads to blight with many buildings and businesses left vacant. County Council should continuously monitor the development projects and growth so that the infrastructure and roads will handle the additional traffic for these new sprawling areas.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

I feel County Council is obligated and should move forward with the project because the voters passed the penny referendum. However, several steps need to be put in before moving forward in order to reduce the cost and increase transparency and accountability. Cost reduction measures can be done by first scaling back on the scope of projects in certain parts of the county.

Secondly, Council should continue to receive monthly financial reports and have the Finance Department make frequent audits to curtail duplicate payments for services and the misuse of funds. Third, utilize county departments for services that can be completed “in-house.” Finally, as transparency increases and misconduct is exposed; those who are involved must face consequences.

Accountability must become the hallmark of the County Council.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

As a part of restoring public trust and being accountable, County Council should settle the ongoing dispute with Department of Revenue. First, I would suggest the Council try to work with the DOR to forge a compromise to resolve the disputed amount. Then, the negotiated amount should be set up in a repayment plan paid from the County’s General Fund for the next 14 years, which will culminate with the end of the Penny Tax program. However, upon receiving more detailed information concerning county resources, I will suggest other options to address this issue.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

My campaign motto is “The ART of Leadership” (A – Accountable & Accessible, R – Responsive to the needs of the people, and T – Transparent in my decisions).

Thus, transparency and accountability are key issues in this campaign. The County Council should continue with “on the record” roll call voting enabling constituents to review the Council’s voting record on issues. Additionally, quarterly summary updates can be posted on the County’s website or emailed to constituents. These actions will facilitate transparency. As it relates to accountability, the best way to deter bad behavior is to enforce consequences for their misconduct, which will increase the accountability of public officials.

The second issue is the Penny Tax project. As I stated earlier, in order to restore public trust, County Council should settle the ongoing dispute with the Department of Revenue. Council should try to work with the DOR to come to a compromise and an understanding to resolve the disputed amount and move forward for the good of the citizens.

My third issue was improving public safety in communities and schools. But, due to the coronavirus pandemic, jobs and the economy have become an urgent issue. I feel County Council should support small businesses by creating a “business friendly” environment with a more streamlined process that will encourage the birth of new businesses. Council should provide initiatives to encourage current businesses to re-open. In a related area of emphasis, Council needs to assist the workforce in re-tooling by partnering with Technical Colleges and Universities to provide programs that correspond with the current fields of employment that have a shortage of employees. County Council can coordinate on-the-Job training initiatives with potential employers. Finally, when it is feasible, provide local targeted hiring that is linked to Penny Tax projects.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I am active in the community. I have lived in Columbia since 1984 and have resided in District 8 in the Dentsville and Northeast areas since 1992. I serve as a Trustee at my church, First Nazareth Baptist Church. I am the Treasurer for the Greater Waverly Foundation, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., and I serve as the Assistant Treasurer of the Bridging the Gap with Alpha Foundation.

My past service as it relates to the District 8 area is being a former board member for the Ashley Hall HOA, past President of Rice Creek PTO, former Spring Valley School Improvement Council board member, and I served on the Richland Two Discipline Task Force. Please remember, my campaign motto:

“The ART of Leadership” (A – Accountable & Accessible, R – Responsive to the needs of the people, T – Transparent in my decisions).

Name: Hamilton R. Grant

Age: 31

Education: I obtained my Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing from South Carolina State University (2011) and a Master’s in Business Administration from Alabama A&M University (2014).

Political experience: I am a graduate of the James E. Clyburn Congressional Fellowship, member of the Richland County Democratic Party, member of the Young Democrats of the Central Midlands, and I have volunteered for several campaigns ranging from local to presidential elections. In addition to this experience, I am the youngest elected trustee to any public College or University in the State of South Carolina. I was elected to serve my alma mater, South Carolina State University, in 2018.

Professional experience: I work with my father, Tony Grant, as President of Grant Business Advisors, LLC, a strategic financial advisory firm for nonprofits, small businesses and middle market companies. We specialize in arranging financing for new construction loans, re-financing existing debt and putting together strategic alliances for our clients. Since the inception of Grant Business Advisors (formally Grant Business Strategies, Inc.), we have successfully arranged over $1 Billion in financing for clients across the country.

Where did you grow up?

I grew up right here in Richland County District 8.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

You can always tell a tree by the fruit it produces, and Richland County Council does a great job at highlighting everyday residents who do amazing things in and around our community. By recognizing their accomplishments at council meetings, it supports a strong sense of community. I am proud to be from Richland County District 8 and, as a councilman, I will continue to lift up our residents.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

Richland County must improve in the area of accountability and transparency. Richland County tends to be in the spotlight for all things bad in this area. One prominent example is the issue with the Penny Sales Tax program. Residents in Richland County deserve to understand why projects are behind schedule and over budget. In order to keep our trust, County Council must address hard questions on how we arrived here, and what the plan is moving forward. Richland County is our state’s second largest county. The future of our growth and infrastructure depends on how well we can trust our council to do the right thing with our dollars.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

When this program was passed in 2012, it was passed with the belief and trust that projects would be completed in a timely manner and managed properly. Unfortunately, what we now know is that has not been the case. Council must make tough decisions on how costs can be cut to ensure that much needed projects are not only completed on time but are in line with the budget, if not under budget. While this is not a popular opinion because residents won’t get everything they were initially promised, this will alleviate traffic congestion in much needed areas. In addition to cutting costs, as councilman, I would determine if any budget funds could be re-directed toward road projects to help complete projects pertaining to safety, such as sidewalks and crossing lanes. Keeping our residents safe should be our top priority.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

It is of the best interest of the residents of Richland County to reach an agreement with the SC Department of Revenue that is fair and just. Since this dispute is tied to so much productivity, it is hard for our county to do the work that council was elected to do with this issue looming above. Settling this dispute will allow much needed business to continue and would be a step in the right direction in moving forward. Council must also strengthen its checks and balances over the management of the program so those same mistakes are not repeated.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

While there are many important issues of my campaign, the top three are (1) transparency and accountability of the Penny Sales Tax program; (2) addressing food deserts in our county so that everyone in the county has access to fresh and nutritious foods which makes the county as a whole healthier; and (3) ensuring that we feel safe in our communities. As your next Richland County District 8 Councilman, I am committed to always communicating openly and honestly with my constituents and intend to implement an “open door” policy. Specifically, with respect to the Penny Sales Tax program, I will thoroughly research how the penny tax monies have been spent and managed to date and will ensure that any mistakes are not repeated. I will work hard to get the program back on track and to how it was intended to be administered. I also will work with county staff and nonprofits in making sure that all of our residents have access to affordable and healthy food options. Right now, over 65,000 residents in Richland County do not have that access. Understanding the importance of feeling safe in our community, I will continue to work with our law enforcement and fight for laws and programs that will get results. My main priority is improving the safety and security in our neighborhoods and keeping children safe in their schools. When our community and law enforcement work together, our county is a safer place for everyone.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I am the only candidate in this race with governing experience, and I will bring a fresh perspective and innovative ideas to our growing county. As a lifelong resident, District 8 is my home. It is where I have decided to raise my family. My wife, Alana, and I are about to welcome a baby boy in a few weeks. I want him to feel the sense of home in this community that I did as a child growing up here. This community made a meaningful impact on the person I am today, and I want to give back to this community that I love and cherish. I would be honored to serve as your county councilman and hope to earn your vote on June 9th! To find out more about me and my platform, including my growing family and how to connect with the campaign, please visit www.GrantForSC.com.

Name: Overture E. Walker

Age: 39

Education: University of South Carolina Bachelor of Arts – History ‘02, University of South Carolina School of Law - Juris Doctor ‘04

Political experience: No elected office experience

Professional experience: Former City of Columbia Municipal Court Judge; Founder and Managing Partner at Stoney & Walker, LLC with law offices in Charleston and Columbia; Former City Prosecutor for the City of Columbia; Former Assistant City Attorney for the City of Columbia; Former Assistant Public Defender for the Richland County Public Defender Office.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Sumter but grew up in Richland County over the past 33 years; 12 of those years have been spent living in and enjoying the people and communities of Northeast Richland. We live in the Parliament Lake subdivision and our daughter attends Polo Road Elementary.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Council does a fine job of live-streaming meetings and archiving them on the county website, which increases transparency and allows the citizens of Richland County to see their government at work. Council’s robust support has created a countywide fire system that provides quality protection for residents and a level of coverage that has resulted in a very low ISO rating, thereby saving taxpayers money on their homeowners insurance. In addition, the council brought stability to county government ranks by coming together to secure a very good county administrator.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

Council should seek to work more harmoniously with all municipalities within Richland County.

I also believe that council has to look for more ways to ease the tax burden on our citizens who are taxed at a rate 60% higher than our counterparts in Greenville and Charleston. Moreover, council must do a better job of looking out for the county as a whole. While single-member districts play a much-needed and critical role in ensuring diverse representation on council, it is important that council members remember they not only represent the interest of their district but that they have a responsibility to look out for the best interests of the entire county. There may be times when what appears to be good for a single district might not be in the best interest of the entire county. It is imperative that we have leaders with a holistic or county-wide perspective.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

In early May, County Council re-scoped three major projects to realign the $1 billion penny roads program to cover all original projects included in the ballot referendum as well provide for $40 million of fund balance to cover any future ballooning costs. It appears that the modifications were driven by road data and will allow projects to be completed under budget with a projected surplus of $56.5 million, which should be sufficient to cover future cost overruns. While I support these actions, it is important that the council pays close attention to cost as well as how this plan is carried out. I would push for the council to have regular, detailed updates on the progress and for it to keep the public informed.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

The dispute with the Department of Revenue must be resolved to renew confidence both in the penny program itself as well as local contractors. I fully support the county operating in good faith and in a timely fashion to assertively work for a resolution. It is important to note that it is County Council’s job to oversee these funds. Whatever settlement it comes to with the Department of Revenue must be in the best interest of county taxpayers, must move the program forward and must ensure that controls are put in place to address the potential of similar questions being raised in the future. In addition, there should be an annual audit that is shared with the public and the Transportation Penny Advisory Committee should be strengthened to ensure accountability.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

1. Management of tax dollars. To ensure prudent management of tax funds, we must have transparency throughout county government that informs taxpayers how their dollars are spent. We also need the sort of accountability that demands change if an expenditure or initiative fails. If elected to council, I would continue with the independent annual audit of every county department performed by a reputable accounting firm and publish the same on the county’s website. I also would demand that discussions about spending always be held in the open and not behind closed doors. We should not decide how the people’s money is spent when they are not looking.

2. “Smart” growth that prevents haphazard development. In Northeast Richland, housing and apartment development is occurring at a pace that makes it difficult for the current infrastructure, specifically roads, to accommodate the growth. While growth is good, that is not good growth; it is an expensive and inefficient process that eats up tax dollars and lessens quality of life. We must plan strategically to ensure that new and existing infrastructure can accommodate new development. I will work with builders and developers to encourage the kind of growth that enhances the quality of life for our citizens, while also ensuring that builders and developers remain profitable.

3. Public Transportation and Traffic Congestion. If minimal strategic planning in housing development has engendered burdensome traffic congestion, then minimally adequate public transportation has exacerbated the same. Without something as simple as turnouts for picking up commuters, a bus stopped on Forest Drive in the mornings or Two Notch Road during the afternoon rush hour could add several minutes to an arduous commute. With a population of over 400,000 people and growing, it is critical to have a modern transportation system that takes people of all stripes where they both want and need to go — whether that is to the doctor’s office, shopping, sporting and entertainment events or commutes to work. A metropolitan area of our size deserves a transportation system that helps boost the economy.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

Although I was born in Sumter, I am of, for and by Richland County. This is home; it is the place where I grew up in every sense of the phrase. I grew up in and attended public schools in southeast Richland County. I went to college and law school in Richland County. I started my career as a lawyer in Richland County. I met my wife, Sharon, got married and started a family in Richland County. I built a record of public service from providing access to justice for those with limited resources to keeping communities safe and protecting taxpayer dollars here in Richland County. I was entrusted with the administration of justice here in Richland County, and made impactful decisions in a fair and unbiased manner as a city judge. I started my own business, Stoney & Walker, LLC, here in Richland County, where we safeguard the legal rights of citizens and protect families, most of whom are Richland residents. Further, my daughter attends public school at Polo Road Elementary in District 8. As someone with deep, systemic ties who has lived in different parts of the county, I have a holistic view of Richland County and a vested interest in seeing every community of our beloved county thrive and prosper.

COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 9

Name: Calvin Chip Jackson

Age: 65

Education: USC Columbia, BA in Journalism, USC Masters of Public Administration, Graduate of Leadership Trident in Charleston, SC, Graduate of Leadership South Carolina in Columbia, Graduate of The South Carolina Executive Institute, Columbia, SC

Political experience: Elected and served eight years (two terms) on Richland School District Two Board of Trustees, served as chairman of the school board for 2 terms, currently serving on Richland County Council representing District 9 (first term)

Professional experience Worked for 30 years in public education and higher education, worked as an admission officer for USC, worked as Assistant College Registrar at the College of Charleston, worked as College Registrar at the College of Charleston, worked as Dean of Admissions Records and Financial Aid for Trident Technical College, worked as Director of the Palmer Campus of the Trident Technical College System, worked as Senior Policy Analyst (SERVE) University of North Carolina at Greensboro, worked as Director of State Charter Schools for the SC State Department of Education, worked as Deputy State Superintendent of Education for SC State Department of Education.

Where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Columbia, Richland County, and have lived in Richland County all my life except for the years I worked in Charleston. I attended elementary, middle, and high school in Columbia: AC Moore Elementary, Hand Middle School, and Dreher High School.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Richland County has an outstanding workforce of more than 3,000 dedicated employees. The outstanding services they provide include a strong law enforcement agency, a committed emergency management agency, a hard-working public works department, a successful economic development department, a vastly improving transportation department, an acclaimed and accredited financial department, and several other highly professional departments who provide high quality and responsive services to the citizens of Richland County every day. These are the true unsung heroes. Richland County Council does a great job of ensuring that these individuals work for an organization where they are respected, protected and compensated for the outstanding work they perform.

What do you think Richland County Council should do better?

Richland County Council must continue to evaluate its policies, procedures, and practices so that they are fully transparent and focused on the expressed needs of its taxpaying citizens. It must work harder to close the inequity gaps in our county that directly affect the quality of life and services for some our citizens who are most vulnerable. It should also do a better job of being proactive by keeping the public informed of issues that affect all of us. It should work harder to engage the public in advance of making decisions by holding more public forums, community meetings and town hall sessions. This will provide public feedback where and when it matters the most.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

At Richland County Council meeting on May 5, 2020, the Council passed a motion that will ensure that Richland County moves forward in a methodical way in completing all of the projects that were originally approved by the voters in 2012. This major milestone was achieved as a result of two years of hard work and the hard decision to redesign the program. The motion approved by the Council was for the Transportation Penny Staff to thoroughly review all remaining projects, looking closely at safety issues, traffic volume and capacity and economic development. As a result of this thorough review, the staff will modify the scope of some projects to ensure these issues are addressed. These projects will be critically examined, thereby ensuring that we will no longer have project costs that are substantially higher than the funding established by the referendum. Therefore, I am confident we will be able to complete these projects, rather than relying on past practices, which would have yielded a higher number of undeveloped projects by the end of Penny Transportation Program.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

The County can settle the 40 million dollar outstanding dispute over the management of the Penny Transportation Program with the South Carolina Department of Revenue (DOR) by continuing to engage in a fact-based, honest and open dialogue with DOR. On matters that Richland County and DOR have reached similar decisions on a path forward, that County has acted promptly in addressing those issues. In areas where Richland County and DOR have a difference of opinion, it’s essential that both sides continue to address those matters, until we can reach an agreed-upon resolution. The formal process has been agreed upon by both the County and DOR. I also believe it will be essential, now that the program has moved in-house, that the County continues to bolster its efforts with checks and balances, as we operate and manage this billion dollar transportation program. This must include formal audits and reviews by internal folks before hand, but most importantly, by independent professional audit firms with the.experience and credentials to handle projects of this size, scope and magnitude.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

The most important issue for me in this campaign should be facts vs fiction. Facts should matter as it relates to County Council issues.

The Transportation Penny Program and its faulty beginning in 2014 has been a problem for the last six years. On May 5, 2020, I as the Chair of the Council Penny Transportation Ad Hoc Committee, presented a plan that was approved by Council that will transform the Penny Program from a deficit program to a surplus program. After two years of chairing this committee on the most controversial countywide issue, the results of this transformative plan will ensure that all road projects approved by the voters in 2012 will now be done. This was not an easy thing to do, but it was the right thing to do. The big winner will be the taxpaying citizens of Richland County.

The second should be increasing transparency. As Chair of the above mentioned committee, I began the process of having regularly scheduled public committee meetings to ensure that all of the issues being discussed would be done on a regular basis and be done in the full view of the public. Next, I began a monthly reporting of the events of the committee meeting to full council and the public. Finally, I changed the procedure for public review of all projects, that now require a public presentation, public input and a response to the public, before projects are given final approval.

The final issue for me is how to ensure that economic development is done in a manner that benefits the growth of the county, but not at the expense of public infrastructure, rising costs for services or impeding the quality of life that is so essential to all citizens of the county. As Chair of the Economic Development Committee, we have agreed to pursue land and space that fits the economic footprint and blueprint of our county. I strongly support the views and desires of the members of council who feel there has been an unbalanced approach to economic development countywide. As Chair of this committee, I have instructed the staff to develop a professional economic development proposed strategic plan that will address all of the critical areas of need county wide. This plan will be done with involvement of as many stakeholders as possible. This will ensure that the final product represents the entire county. The Strategic Planning process has been initiated and will begin in the next few months.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know.

My faith plays a major role in all that I do personally and professionally. It influences my thinking and my actions. I believe in honesty and integrity and strive everyday to display those traits. I am a strong family man. I am a proud new grandfather for the first time of a 4-month-old granddaughter, who lives in another state. However, the work that I do in Richland County is influenced by my desire to make it a county where she will one day want to live. I hate injustice of any kind. I speak the loudest for those voices are often not heard because of reasons they have no control over. That’s why I decided to use funds allocated to me as a member of Council to provide the Coroner’s Office with the needed funds to significantly improve the final resting place for the less fortunate members of our community. This act was done to show that those who died and are unable to have a proper burial would be provided one in a cemetery that was reflective of our compassion as our brother’s keeper. I am proud of the work I have done over the past 35 months. I look forward to serving ALL of my neighbors with the same level for the next four years. I will do what is right and not what is easy.

Name: Jonnieka Farr

Age: 46

Education: BA in Sociology from State University of New York Potsdam

Political Experience: Chair of the Richland Democratic Women’s Council

Professional Experience:

I work in state government currently as a business analyst with former experience as a social worker for the state. I have worked in state government for 19 years. I am also a board member for the Greater Columbia Community Relations Council.

Where did you grow up?

Born in Portsmouth, Virginia. I was in a military family that was stationed at posts including Fort Bragg, Augsburg Germany and Fort Drum.

What do you think Richland County does well?

Richland County’s leadership on some environmental issues, including its vote to ban single-use plastic bags outside of the city. The County issued a $1 million grant to help small businesses recover from the economic downturn that came from the coronavirus. I’d like to do more if elected, but this is a good start.

What do you think County Council should do better?

Transparency and oversight. Richland County residents deserve to know how Penny Tax money is being spent and that it’s being spent on what county council said it is being spent on. Communicate more with constituents. This could be done by sending more newsletters and doing better with notifying the public of informational meetings. Also by providing more frequent updates via various social media platforms to reach constituents of all demographics. Being more transparent so that concerns that people currently have about the business dealings of county council are not misconstrued. Being more present in their own communities so they can hear the concerns and issues that their constituents have They can then bring that information back for more discussion with the county council. I believe council members should foster the platform of being engaged within their communities. Pushing to increase more constituent involvement not just waiting for constituents to come to them.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

I acknowledge that the roads program costs are rising, and some of this may be due to increased costs as time has passed. However, we do not want the safety of our constituents to be further compromised; therefore, we should finish all road projects that are currently under way. At the same time, we should re-prioritize the road project list based on public safety, infrastructure needs and increase in traffic demand.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

Seeing that we are not privy to all of the details of the proposed settlement discussions currently, but from what I do know of it, we’ve spent enough money on dragging out the case through the SC Supreme Court for them to tell us what we’ve known all along. We shouldn’t waste more money and energy fighting an extended settlement agreement at this time. We should be focusing on properly using county taxpayers’ money and rebuilding trust in county government. One way to do this focusing and rebuilding is to have better guidelines and/or procedures for how money should be spent going forward put in place. These guidelines or procedures should be well defined so that no question should be brought as to whether or not something is proper.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

I see these three as the campaign’s top issues: roads and infrastructure, the importance of small businesses, and community engagement. I am pushing to have all current projects that are currently underway finished and to re-prioritize the project list. Infrastructure isn’t just roads; it’s water and sewer systems, it’s medical facilities, it’s broadband Internet and green spaces. Increasing broadband and WiFi access to Richland County residents should also be a top priority. All residents in our county should have access to the Internet in the 21st century. We need to secure funding for our part of the Three Rivers Greenway and other green spaces, as well as ensure that our waterways are clean by limiting the amount of water pollutants discharged in our county. Neither will happen without a fresh commitment to community engagement. To rebuild trust in county government, County Council is going to have to redouble efforts to reach people where they are, whether that means increasing their social media presence or town halls and regular newsletters. Supporting our small businesses is also an integral part of community engagement. It is stated that for every dollar spent in a small business, 63 cents of that dollar remains in the community. So, not only do small businesses create jobs but they can foster community engagement.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I would like the voters to know of the vision I have for our county. I envision a proactive community where leadership listens and every voice is heard. I want people to understand that I believe that all of our voices matter and that we should create an environment where everyone has a chance to thrive. What I truly desire to do is bring people together, uniting them regardless of backgrounds or political ideas, but merely doing what is right for the betterment of all of us.

Name: Jerry Rega

Age: 61

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Economics, The College of Wooster, Masters in Business Administration with concentrations in Accounting and Finance, Case Western Reserve University.

Political experience: If this line item means holding political office, then none. However, I have been very active in fighting for a better Richland County, in particular a better Northeast Richland County. I have been a strong advocate for controlled, well managed growth, rezoning that maintains a high quality of living for our residents and accountability of our political representatives. I am very pleased and proud to say that many of my comments at town hall meetings or council meeting have been met with generous applause.

Professional experience: I have 20 years of experience in various, ever more demanding positions at Fortune 500 companies such as NCR Corporation and Avery Dennison. I started my career as a financial analyst and progressed to purchasing manager, product manager; then to plant manager and general manager. In 2002, my wife, Eileen, and I started a small business, Regal Prints, in Northeast Richland County and decided to make Columbia our home. Since then we have seen our four children graduate from Richland 2 schools, the business has grown, we’ve added new employees and a second location in downtown Columbia. Along with our success, we’ve seen the local area grow tremendously with new homes and other small businesses. Unfortunately, the regional growth has been at the expense of crowded schools and congested traffic because the growth has not been properly managed. Also during that time I have had the pleasure of serving on the board of directors for the Windermere HOA, the Rice Creek Business Park POA and the Blythewood Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

Where did you grow up? On the near west side of Cleveland, Ohio in an area known as “Old Brooklyn”

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

They have a very nice meeting place with nice, digital displays and video-taped meetings. On a more serious note, the county has a very good website with useful information. Many of the departments are well staffed and well managed. I have found all of the departments to be extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

What do you think county council should do better?

Council members need to remember that they are there to represent the best interests of the community and neighborhoods they work for. There is a perception that council often weighs in favor of more development instead of more improvement, greater quantity over better quality. While growth and change are inevitable, council members need to understand there needs to be a balance between growth and quality of life. Specifically, council needs to do a better job of “managing.”

The council and the county has been plagued with problems of mismanagement, corruption and scandal as pointed out by The State newspaper, including: Paying off a county administrator in the amount of nearly $1 million so he would go away and be quiet — this was taxpayer money wasted away, an increase in the constituent services budget from $1,500 to $7,000 and then again increased to $19,000. This is basically free money for council members to spend in any way they like with little or no oversight, a plethora of non-voting council members during council meetings. Too often, council members have abstained from voting on an issue with no explanation for the non-vote, thus avoiding accountability and responsibility.

There is not enough room or words to go into the problems with the Penny Tax program. Let’s just sum it up by saying it’s a mess. One council member recently wrote, “I started addressing this 2014 problem in 2019 by becoming chair of the Council’s Transportation Penny Ad Hoc Committee. Holy cow! What took this person five years to address a problem? Finally, council members need to speak out and say, “Sorry, I made a mistake and we’ll make it right.” Instead, we’ve heard excuses and a lack of taking responsibility. I’ve sat in council chambers and listened to one particular council member scold and berate the very people that put her in office. That is shameful and not acceptable.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

No. 1: Accountability and transparency — In my professional career, I had to perform or get fired. With my own business, I report to the customer each and every day with the products and services we provide. If we do a poor job then we lose a customer and that can directly affect my ability to provide for my employees and my family. I would take that same sense of responsibility to county council. For example, I would hold periodic town hall meetings or other small gatherings where people could come and discuss their concerns, not just during political season where candidates are simply trying to win votes.

No. 2: The Penny Tax program — Get rid of the people that caused all the problems and get it back on track. The problems need to be admitted to and a corrective action plan put in place with competent people to manage it.

No. 3: Health and safety need to be top priorities — That includes improved road safety. I see road crews with very little “safe space.” Projects under the Penny Tax program that make roads safer should be put at the top of the list for completion. I have been reading a lot about dogs roaming freely in highly populated neighborhoods. Reports of people and other pets being attacked are becoming quite common. Animal Control needs to be given the resources to combat these wild dogs before serious harm is done. And continued efforts need to be made with regard to the coronavirus outbreak or similar illnesses to ensure our community remains a safe and healthy place to live and work.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I’m a very dedicated worker because I learned hard work pays off in the long run. My father often held three jobs at once: maintenance worker, janitor and bartender. My mother also cleaned offices to help with family finances. My Italian grandmother worked at the family restaurant in Pennsylvania well into her 90s. I started my working career at the age of 12 with a paper route and then started working in a bowling alley at the age of 14. (I guess no one tracked child work rules very closely back then.) By the age of 16 I was a mechanic at that bowling center and went on to work at other bowling alleys in the Greater Cleveland area. Best of all, I met my wife in one of the bowling alleys I worked at. I always tell people I’ve been very lucky, and the harder I work the luckier I get.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

I think we’ve beat this topic to a pulp. Every candidate is probably going to say they have the answer. If the people in office and those trying to hold onto their seats had the answer then we wouldn’t be needing to have this discussion — they would have fixed it. We need to look into the details to fully understand what the cost projections are and then match that up with revenue projections. Some projects may need to be modified or eliminated. We need to have honesty and full disclosure!

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

The fact that we’re using the word “dispute” implies there is no agreement as to whether a $40 million problem exists. Council seems to disagree with the Department of Revenue’s position. If there really is a problem then admit to it, come to a mutual agreement with the Department of Revenue. Meanwhile, we are wasting more time and money. I’m thinking certain council members do not want to admit to the problem because it will show just how poorly managed the program has been. They had no problem paying $600,000 to outside consultants for a marketing and communications program. That money would be better spent on professional engineers who know how to budget for and construct roads and bridges. I would have no hesitation to admit to the entirety of the problems because I have no history to hide. I simply want the problems solved so the residents of Richland County can have access to better roadways and an assurance that their tax dollars are being well managed.

The State did not receive responses from District 9 candidate Angela Gary Addison.

RICHLAND COUNTY COUNCIL DISTRICT 10

Name: Cheryl D. English

Age: 56

Education: 1983 graduate of Lower Richland High School; graduated in 2000 from Coker College; Majored in Sociology with a Minor in Business Administration and a Concentration in Criminology. Graduated in 2002 with a Master’s of Social Work from the University of South Carolina.

Political experience: While I have not run for office before, I have worked a long time behind the scenes with other campaigns.

Professional experience: I have worked with the Department of Health and Environmental Control, the Department of Mental Health as a child and adolescent counselor and I currently work for the SC Developmental Disabilities Council. I have over 30 years state experience and I am also a licensed ordained minister.

Where did you grow up? I grew up in the military (born in Texas, moved to Michigan, Puerto Rico, then Ohio). I have lived in South Carolina since June 1976.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

If you look at the county’s overall finances, they have historically been sound. In fact, at one point we had a Triple-A bond rating! We need to strive to maintain ratings such as this.

What do you think County Council should do better?

I believe that District 10 needs someone who is responsive to the needs and concerns of the citizens in that district.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

The existing projects have been voted upon and approved, so we know what needs to be done. This commitment came about as an agreement by the taxpayers and it placed a great deal of trust in our leadership to adequately appropriate those funds. We have to work together to stay on budget and on course. Certainly cost plays a tremendous role in the ability to proceed, but we need to be realistic about the costs and the things that need to be done to address needs county-wide.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

Perhaps we should consider better accounting practices. And going forward, what checks and balances need to be put in place to prevent anything like this from happening again? There should be a greater degree of accountability.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

The top three issues are: the Penny Tax, roads/traffic and homeowners associations (HOAs). With the Penny Tax, we need to ensure those funds are used for their stated purposes. In Lower Richland, the biggest concerns are the high number of existing dirt roads and access to public transportation (a regular bus service). In terms of our roads and traffic, we need a feasibility study to ensure that the appropriate measures are in place to avoid traffic jams and to prevent another Malfunction Junction. Our HOAs have some valid concerns and their issues need to be considered and properly addressed.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I am passionate about my community and have served my community for years, working behind the scenes. Currently, I work for the SC Developmental Disabilities Council, so I understand the importance of everyone’s voice being heard. I am also a member of the Lower Richland Sweet Potato Festival Committee, where we have been able to bring the community together and reinforce the significance of the Lower Richland community to the Greater Columbia area. As a part of the Richland County Library Board, I have worked hard to fight for positive educational programming and accessibility for all. We secured a Garners Ferry Library Branch and a LEED certified branch in Eastover.

Name: Dalhi N. Myers (pronounced “dale-ya”)

Age: 51

Education: B.A.-Spelman College, Atlanta, GA, J.D., with honors-Howard University School of Law, Washington, DC

Political experience: Currently serving as the Vice Chair of the Richland County Council

Professional experience: Practicing Corporate Attorney. I’ve enjoyed the practice of law for more than 20 years. It’s intellectually stimulating, and has prepared me for reading literally 600-700 pages in preparation for Richland County Council meetings.

Where did you grow up?

Hopkins, SC. I have been privileged, from my small town upbringing to live in many countries, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, mainland China, Australia and the United Kingdom. My work to deliver the benefits of fiber optic cable capacity around the globe reminds me how important Internet connectivity is for school children, seniors using telemedicine, and workers who may be forced to stay at home for long periods of time. I know my background has prepared me to assist Richland County in its COVID-19 preparedness efforts. I am privileged to serve in these historic times. I am focused on using my training to expand our broadband access in smart ways and look forward to a day when no child in Hopkins, Lake Murray, Blythewood, Eastover, or anywhere in Richland County cannot get a ride on the high speed Internet.

What do you think Richland County Council does well?

Richland County consistently receives awards for its budgets. I’m excited about the new Southeast Richland County Utilities project, which will deliver water and sewer service to parts of SE Richland County, will fully decommission two open sewers and a partially enclosed third from the grounds of three Richland County schools and one housing development. I’m also excited that this project will maximize economies of scale by placing the conduit for high speed Internet cables in the ground while it is open. This is a $30 million investment in an area of Richland County that has seen very little Richland County investment. Finally, I’m proud of the work that I’ve been able to do toward blight removal. Under my leadership, we have demolished a nearly 30-year-old abandoned trailer park on Old Percival Road. Those dilapidated trailers were infested with rats, roaches, coyotes, snakes and other vermin that regularly migrated into the surrounding neighborhoods. My constituents asked that I try to find money to demolish them. We secured nearly $500,000 in federal funding to totally demolish and remove all of those awful structures. Today the site is clean. I’m also proud to have secured (from private sources) $300,000 to erect a new park in the Taylors/Little Camden/Washington Park area and $295,000 (from federal money) to erect a long promised part for the Atlas Road/Eastway Park/Bluff Estates/Starlite areas. Finally, I’m very proud to have worked with the Olympia residents to create and open the Olympia Museum, which captures the wonderful history of one of Richland County’s most significant areas. Positive things like this are happening all over Richland County. However, they never attract media attention because they do not feed the ongoing media narrative.

What do you think county council should do better?

There is always room for improvement. I hope to get to a place where voters have trust in their elected leaders. Richland County has an abundance of good things happening. I wish we communicated those things more effectively to our constituents.

How should Richland County move forward with the $1 billion penny roads program despite ballooning costs endangering some projects?

Richland County has taken serious steps forward in rationalizing the Penny. Since my first day on Council, I focused on the Penny and its associated spending. I have consistently voted to bring the Penny in house, to reject any proposal that was beyond the Referendum amounts, and to force accountability even where it was resisted. I am delighted that Richland County no longer has a program development team. I do not believe they added significant value. I also am delighted that the whole of Council now seems prepared to vote down any proposals that exceed Referendum amounts. I hope in coming years we will spend more time explaining the Penny’s structure to the public.

The public should know that Richland County’s 2012 Referendum set aside too little money for many of its ambitious projects. For example, there are over 700 dirt roads on the dirt road paving list. However, the drafters of the Referendum only set aside $45 million for dirt road paving. Paving each dirt road costs approximately $500,000. Simple math dictates that we only have enough money to pave 20-30 roads from that massive list. Citizens need to know that many of our Penny problems are basic math problems just like the one with the dirt road paving program. Council now is dealing with that 2012 faulty math problem in 2020. It’s hard. But there never was enough money set aside for all those roads. Explaining the Penny and its limitations takes time and patience. Demonizing everything about the Program can be done in 10 second sound bites. I hope we spend the next four years getting beyond the sound bites and into the more nuanced truth. The public deserved nuanced truth about this critically important program.

How can the county settle an outstanding $40 million dispute over management of the program with the S.C. Department of Revenue?

Richland County is working to resolve its DOR dispute. The dispute and its allegations predated me on Council, but I have dedicated a lot of time and effort to positive, forward, movement. I believe we will resolve the issue in the taxpayers’ best interests.

What are the top three issues in this campaign, and how specifically would you address them?

A. Improved infrastructure and access to high speed Internet County-wide. The onslaught of COVID-19 has shown us how fragile our access to basic services can be. In 2016, I ran on a platform of working to provide equal access to necessary infrastructure county-wide. In that connection, I believe I have been very successful. The new SE Richland water and sewer infrastructure, which will also include buried conduit to provide access to high speed Internet is the first down payment on my promise to voters who elected me. While it might appear that this infrastructure benefits only SE Richland County, that is not true. Having end-to-end access to basic services, County-wide, makes Richland County more attractive to families and businesses looking to make Richland County home. We are a lot closer to providing access to basic services, which is a fundamental role of local government, than we were before I was elected. I’m proud of that fact.

B. Improved Fire Safety. I’m proud to say that the introduction of water services in an overlooked segment of the County will be accompanied by the additional of 116 new fire hydrants. That is my work. Better fire infrastructure across the County also benefits all of us. Those new hydrants will connect to the new water service in Richland County. We all will benefit from a lower ISO rating and lower insurance rates. Better fire service also makes our homes more valuable. I will continue working on the rollout of new fire stations and improvements to existing ones (I commissioned a Fire Study in 2018, which is finally ready) to make Richland County even safer.

C. Lower Millage Rates. I’ve consistently been a voice on Richland County for lower millage. I believe the current economic times will force more realistic dialogue about what we can and cannot do with tax revenue and how we work to service our citizens more creatively. We know COVID-19 is here to stay. We also know that our lives will necessarily change to accommodate this novel virus and to succeed against it. In that connection, elected leaders must be clear eyed about the limitations of the citizens we serve in these changed economic times. I have been and will remain a voice for doing more with less. To me, that means lower millage rates.

Tell us something important about you that you want voters to know?

I have been humbled to serve Richland County. The past four years have been tough, but I’m grateful to God for the opportunity to be in the arena of service. I am grateful for the opportunity and responsibility of leadership. I remain convinced that Richland County’s best days lie ahead. I look forward to continued service to the people who trusted me four years ago. Importantly, with new members of Council and some seasoned ones, I look forward to a more cohesive, more focused and more capable council than ever.

The State did not receive responses from District 10 candidate Jackie Bush.

This story was originally published June 8, 2020 at 12:12 PM.

Bristow Marchant

The State

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Bristow Marchant covers local government, schools and community in Lexington County for The State. He graduated from the College of Charleston in 2007. He has almost 20 years of experience covering South Carolina at the Clinton Chronicle, Sumter Item and Rock Hill Herald. He joined The State in 2016. Bristow has won numerous awards, most recently the S.C. Press Association’s 2024 education reporting award.  Support my work with a digital subscription

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Lucas Daprile

The State

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Lucas Daprile has been covering the University of South Carolina and higher education since March 2018. Before working for The State, he graduated from Ohio University and worked as an investigative reporter at TCPalm in Stuart, FL. Lucas received several awards from the S.C. Press Association, including for education beat reporting, series of articles and enterprise reporting. Support my work with a digital subscription