Wedding & Event Venue Near Hampton, SC.

HAMPTON — Long before this county misspent a single dollar of its residents’ sales taxes, it broke a law intended to safeguard that money.

Three months later, it did again. Then again and again and again, every quarter for the better part of a decade.

Counties are allowed to impose higher sales taxes to bankroll big projects like building roads and renovating their facilities. But in return, they’re required to send the state quarterly reports about how they’re using that money.

Hampton County didn’t comply with that law once in the eight years it collected the extra tax. It sent the S.C. Department of Revenue just one spending report, a year after its tax ended. By then, county officials had discovered at least $3.1 million was missing from the sales tax fund, setting off a firestorm among the county's residents.

The Department of Revenue, the state’s tax agency, did not take notice of the missing reports, even as the county blew through more than 30 deadlines, according to an investigation by Uncovered, The Post and Courier’s initiative to shine a light on questionable government conduct in partnership with community newspapers around South Carolina.

What’s more, Uncovered found, Hampton County was no exception in violating the law.

Almost half of the state’s counties — 22 of 46 — charge their residents an extra penny per dollar for construction projects. All but one failed to report their spending even once this year, according to records produced by the Department of Revenue in response to an open-records request.

Now, the agency says that will change. After Uncovered asked questions about the oversight, the Department of Revenue sent instructions to counties around the state, asking that they start sending reports next year.

“I’m sure they’re going to,” said state Senate Minority Leader Brad Hutto, who backed the requirement when it was passed in 2002. “Because if they don’t, we’re going to make ‘em.”

New tax, new requirement

Twenty-six years ago, South Carolina lawmakers set off a feeding frenzy among local governments eager to take on big projects without the state’s help.

In an effort to tamp down property taxes, they let counties pay for projects with new sales taxes instead.

But lawmakers did not want to give them too much leash. Before they could raise taxes, each county would have to convene a panel to decide what projects the money would go toward and what order to take them on. Then, voters would have to approve the plans in a referendum.

Soon after the Capital Project Sales Tax Act became law in 1997, counties jumped in. Spartanburg and York saw an opportunity to widen roads. Orangeburg wanted to pave dirt roads and build recreation facilities. Newberry wanted to renovate its courthouse and the county-run emergency room.

The new tax would become an important source of money for local governments. Last year, capital projects taxes brought in $385 million.

As the first round of taxes came up for renewal, lawmakers decided South Carolinians needed more assurance their money was being used the way county leaders said it was. In 2002, they tucked a new requirement into an all-encompassing bill that changed the state’s rules for bingo halls and economic development incentives, among other things.

Under the new law, counties would be required to tell the state every three months how much money they’d spent on each of their projects. The requirement was initially proposed as part of a bill sponsored by former state Sen. Wes Hayes, R-Rock Hill.

His home county, York, was the first county to pass a penny tax in the 1990s, and it has had one ever since, using it to keep up with the growth of Charlotte’s suburbs. But support was tenuous at first, and the initial referendum barely passed. Hayes said lawmakers implemented a reporting requirement to assure voters that the tax would be used to get construction work done, not grow government.

Hampton County basketball player scores 1,000th point

Ka’Von Chisolm sank a milestone basket last week, marking his 1,000th career point. Chisolm has been a four-year varsity player for Estill High School and now Hampton County High School.

"Ka'Von exhibits what a student-athlete should be," said HCHS Athletics Director Rob Hanna. "His combination of commitment and hard work paired with his athletic ability allows him to be dominant on the court. He was a big part of Estill making it to the Lower State Championship last season in 1A and is one of the leaders on the Hurricane Team this year that recently just won the Region 6AA championship and is getting ready for a playoff run."

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers will host a free informational clinic on family law matters

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers will host a free informational clinic on family law matters from noon to 5 p.m. on Feb. 15 at the Hampton County Library, 12 Locust St. East. Volunteer attorneys and legal assistants will be on hand to answer questions about child support, custody, birth certificates, and more. The informational session is free, but registration is encouraged by calling (843) 815-7570 or by emailing info@lclv.org.

PEARLS of Hampton County is this event’s sponsor.

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing equal justice to those in need within Hampton, Jasper and Beaufort counties. In 2023, Lowcountry Legal Volunteers held 24 free legal clinics and assisted hundreds of clients and their families.

Lowcountry Legal Volunteers assists with adoptions, child custody, visitation, guardianships, divorce, name changes, simple consumer matters, eviction actions, lease termination, non-refund of security deposits, simple wills and probate. LCLV’s primary office is located within the 14^th Circuit Family Justice Center in Okatie. To learn more, visit www.lclv.org.

Annie Bennett Named to the College of Charleston Fall 2023 President's List (Highly Distinguished)

CHARLESTON, SC - Annie Bennett of Varnville, (29944) was named to the College of Charleston Fall 2023 President's List (Highly Distinguished). Bennett is majoring in Early Childhood Education.

To qualify for the President's List (Highly Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.800 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

To qualify for Dean's List (Distinguished), students must earn a GPA of 3.500 or higher and complete a minimum of 12 semester hours.

Located in the heart of historic Charleston, South Carolina, the College of Charleston is a nationally recognized public liberal arts and sciences university. Founded in 1770, the College is among the nation's top universities for quality education, student life and affordability. Its beautiful and historic campus, combined with contemporary facilities, cutting-edge programs and accessible faculty attracts students from across the U.S. and around the world.

William Hazel of Hampton named to fall 2023 dean's list

CHARLESTON, SC - William Hazel of Hampton, SC is among the more than 1,300 cadets and students recognized for their academic achievements during the fall 2023 semester.

The dean's list is a recognition given to cadets and students who are registered for 12 or more semester hours and whose grade point average is 3.20 or higher, with no grade of I (Incomplete) and no grade below C for work in a semester.

Cadets who are named to the dean's list receive a medal, which is worn on their uniform during the semester following their academic achievement. Non-cadet students on the dean's list are presented with a certificate.

About The Citadel

The Citadel, with its iconic campus located in Charleston, South Carolina, offers a classic military college education for young men and women focused on leadership excellence and academic distinction. The approximately 2,300 members of the South Carolina Corps of Cadets are not required to serve in the military, but about one-third of each class earn commissions to become officers in every branch of U.S. military service. Citadel alumni have served the nation, their states and their communities as principled leaders since 1842. The Citadel Graduate College offers dozens of graduate degree, graduate certificate and evening undergraduate programs in the evening or online. The Citadel has been consecutively named Best Public College in the South by U.S. News & World Report for 13 years and No. 1 Best Public College for Veterans in the South for six years.

The Hampton County Council has moved forward with the hiring of a new administrator, but at least one elected state official and reportedly several citizens have concerns over a perceived lack of governmental administrative experience.

During a Dec. 13 special meeting, the Hampton County Council unanimously voted to approve an employment contract for Lavar Youmans, who was recently offered the position of county administrator on Dec. 4.

However, that preliminary decision was not unanimous among the council, and now other officials have voiced opposition. Within minutes of the council's approval of an employment contract for Youmans on Dec. 13, at least one elected official expressed concerns during the open meeting.

"I make it a point to stay out of your business as a county, but I need your help," said S.C. State Representative William Hager (District 122) during the "Public Comments" portion of the meeting. "I have constituents calling me concerning the hiring of the county administrator. I need your help to explain why the decision was made to bypass candidates with administrative experience for a candidate whose resume is at the very least a word salad, showing very little experience in administration."

"We have some big challenges ahead and we need the best we can get," Hager added. "I'm here to support you, but the citizens need to feel comfortable that the best person is being put in the administrator's position."

The Hampton County Guardian has obtained an unofficial copy of Youmans' resume and has contacted county officials for an official copy, as well as contact information for the new hire and a copy of the approved employment contract.

County Council divided over hiring of candidate Youmans

The Hampton County Council took steps Monday, Dec. 4, to formally begin the process of filling the vacant position of county administrator currently held by Interim Administrator Heather Simmons Jones, but it was not a unanimous decision.

After a special 5 p.m. closed session, in which the council discussed four finalists for the position, the council voted 3-2 to offer the position to candidate Lavar Youmans.

Youmans is currently employed as "Strategic Engagement Manager, Office of Strategic Excellence" in Gwinnett County government near Atlanta, Georgia.

During a roll-call vote, council members J.J. Jinks, Darrin Williams, and Roy Hollingsworth voiced a vote for Youmans, while council members Noah Alexander and Camille Welch voiced votes for Albert Penska, who currently serves as finance director for the county.

The four finalists were Youmans, Penska, Eric Lawson and Chris Inglese, who also works as a department head for the county.

The offer was contingent upon acceptance and the approval of a background check.

It is unclear if Youmans has accepted the position. Council members have not returned multiple emails seeking comment or additional information about Youmans.

This is a developing story and The Hampton County Guardian will report more details as they come available.

Hampton County's youngest-ever elected councilperson has resigned his post as chairman of the Hampton County Council.

Noah Alexander, who was elected in 2020 at the age of 19, was believed to be Hampton County's youngest-ever county councilman and possibly the youngest in the state.

Alexander tendered his resignation from public office on Wednesday, March 13, and shared a lengthy message with The Hampton County Guardian (read the full letter below) that evening.

"As I reflect on our shared journey, it’s become clear that the energy and passion that propelled me into office has gradually dimmed," stated Alexander. "This has led me to consider what truly serves Hampton County’s best interests. It's imperative that our community is represented by someone who has the time to be fully present and engaged in the day-to-day responsibilities this role demands."

Alexander also resigned from all county boards and commissions he was serving on.

Alexander's term in office expires at the end of 2024. It is unclear at this point if a special election will be held to fill his vacant seat for the remainder of this term, or if the County Council will move forward with only four members.

Alexander is also involved in community efforts and is an active member of the H.C. Chamber of Commerce.

State representative, councilperson react to Alexander's resignation

Alexander leaves behind a plethora of local government problems that began well before he took office and will likely continue for some time to come.

S.C. Representative William Hager (House District 122) reacted to the news of Alexander's resignation with the following statement on his official Facebook page:

"I was disheartened to hear that Hampton County Council Chairman Noah Alexander has resigned today, effective immediately. Noah’s 2020 election was a historic event. At just 19 years old, he is the youngest person ever elected to public office in South Carolina. Given his youth, Noah surprised us all with his impressive abilities and compassionate leadership. He has been a constant champion for transparency and ethical governance, even and especially when it was the hard thing to do.

"I am glad to be able to call him both friend and ally. We are members of opposing political parties united against those who seem utterly determined to maintain a dysfunctional status quo in Hampton County. It is my sincere hope that he will continue this fight via new means and that whomever fills his shoes be a person of equal integrity."

The Hampton County Guardian reached out to the remaining members of the County Council, and Councilperson Camille Welch also marked Alexander's farewell with praise.

"Noah Alexander has not only been a trusted and respected colleague but a dear friend to me," said Welch. "He is wise beyond his 22 years and his absence from council will be felt deeply. I have no doubt he will be successful in all of his future endeavors. He is intelligent, compassionate and a great listener. I wish him nothing but the best."

Hampton County Citizens for Active Restoration (HCCAR) responds

Randy Vaughn, a leader and spokesperson for the concerned citizens group, H.C. Citizens for Active Restoration, issued a statement Thursday to The Guardian:

"With the resignation of Noah Alexander, Hampton County falls deeper into the void of insufficient government leadership. I have followed the actions of the Council for the past several years and Noah Alexander tried his best to steer the Council lucidly and transparently. Unfortunately, there is a voting bloc on the Council that wants to disrupt the forensic audit, stall comprehensive planning, and generally fight sunshine on local government. I think Noah felt he had done everything within his power to improve the actions of the Council and his efforts were being thwarted at every turn. Until new competent leaders are elected to the Council, I’m afraid the failure of accountability and transparency of the Council will continue.

"Our county is heading in the wrong direction and our future is bleak. The only option to reverse this trend is to elect new competent leaders who believe in and practice accountability and promote transparency in government. An election is coming and we will get to decide if we maintain our current path or change direction to a brighter day!"

Read Councilman Alexander's full letter to H.C. citizens

Below is Alexander's full statement to the media and his constituents:

Dear Friends and Neighbors,

I hope this message finds you well. With a full heart, I want to first extend my deepest gratitude for the unwavering trust and support you've generously provided me. Embarking on this journey, my goal was to be a part of positive change and challenge the status quo, not merely to fulfill the duties of a traditional career politician.

As I reflect on our shared journey, it’s become clear that the energy and passion that propelled me into office has gradually dimmed. This has led me to consider what truly serves Hampton County’s best interests. It's imperative that our community is represented by someone who has the time to be fully present and engaged in the day-to-day responsibilities this role demands.

Over the past three years, we as a county have faced numerous challenges and achieved significant milestones together. Our efforts have highlighted critical issues, such as financial mismanagement, and worked to revitalize county departments and buildings. I have, since day one, advocated for equitable compensation, striving to ensure that every employee receives the recognition and pay they deserve. Moreover, I have championed the vital need for a comprehensive forensic audit, a step that embodies a commitment to transparency and accountability. It is my sincere hope that the council will continue to pursue this with diligence, acting as faithful stewards of our citizens' funds.

Furthermore, my approach to communication was a hope to dismantle the barriers often perceived by constituents. I've always believed in the power of open dialogue, making myself readily available to listen and respond to citizen’s concerns. This was part of a broader vision to transform Hampton County into a flourishing hub for our current and future generations—a place where success is not just a distant dream but a tangible reality for all our residents.

I am thankful for the lessons this journey has taught me and the incredible support and friendships I've gained along the way. Serving as your councilman has been the honor of a lifetime, a role that has immeasurably enriched my life.

With mixed feelings of sadness and hope, I am announcing my resignation, effective immediately, from my position on the Hampton County Council, including my role as chair of the council. Furthermore, I am stepping down from all affiliated boards, commissions, and committee positions.

Thank you once again for the privilege of serving you.

Best regards, Noah O. Alexander

A Hampton County student-athlete who has earned regional and state varsity football honors can now add another accolade to his trophy shelf.

Gatorade announced on Jan. 3 that Zion Dobson, a senior at Hampton County High School, was named the 2023-24 Gatorade South Carolina Football Player of the Year. Dobson is the first Gatorade South Carolina Football Player of the Year to be chosen from Hampton County High School.

The award, which has celebrated the nation’s top high school athletes for excellence on the field for 39 years, both in the classroom and in the community, distinguishes Dobson as South Carolina’s best high school football player.

From CEOs and coaches to star athletes, Gatorade Player of the Year winners showcase the power of sport, touting an all-star group of alumni that includes Emmitt Smith (1986-87, Escambia High School, Fla.), Peyton Manning (1993-94, Isidore Newman School, La.) and Jackson Arnold (2022-23, John H. Guyer High School, Texas).

Dobson, a 5-foot-10, 174-pound senior running back, rushed for 2,629 yards and 40 touchdowns this past season, leading the H.C.H.S. Hurricanes (12-2) to the Class AA state semifinals in the school’s first year of existence.

A finalist for the state’s Mr. Football award and a 2022 Class AA First Team All-State selection at Wade Hampton High, Dobson scored 15 touchdowns in four postseason games for Hampton County.

He concluded his prep football career with 4,189 yards rushing and 57 touchdowns and was recently named All-State for his performance in his final season at H.C.H.S.

A member of the Clemson University Emerging Scholars program, Dobson has volunteered locally with elementary school literacy programs and as a teacher’s aide. He has also donated his time as a youth football coach.

“Zion Dobson is a heck of a ballplayer,” said Brian Smith, head coach of Barnwell High, one of Hampton's longtime rivals. “He’s the best we have seen this year. He’s a big back, tough, physical and fast.”

Dobson has maintained a weighted 4.31 GPA in the classroom. He remains undecided about a collegiate destination.

The Gatorade Player of the Year program annually recognizes one winner in the District of Columbia and each of the 50 states that sanction high school football, girls volleyball, boys and girls cross country, boys and girls basketball, boys and girls soccer, baseball, softball, and boys and girls track & field, and awards one National Player of the Year in each sport.

The selection process is administered by the Gatorade Player of the Year Selection Committee, which leverages experts including coaches, scouts, media and others as sources to help evaluate and determine the state winners in each sport.

Dobson joins recent Gatorade South Carolina Football Players of the Year Jarvis Green (2022-23, Dutch Fork High School), Trent Pearman (2021-22 & 2020-21, D.W. Daniel High School), and Mikele Colasurdo (2019-20, Chapman High School), among the state’s list of former award winners.

As part of Gatorade’s commitment to breaking down barriers in sports, every Player of the Year also receives a grant to donate to a social impact partner. To date, Gatorade Player of the Year winners’ grants have totaled more than $4.9 million across more than 1,600 organizations.

To learn more about the Gatorade Player of the Year program, check out past winners or nominate student-athletes, visit playeroftheyear.gatorade.com or follow us on social media on Facebook at facebook.com/GatoradePOY, Instagram at instagram.com/Gatorade and Twitter at twitter.com/Gatorade.

Zion Dobson among four Hurricanes to earn All State honors

Dobson was also one of four Hampton County Hurricanes named to the Class 2A All-State Football Team this year, joining teammate Ka'Von Chisolmn, Jaylen Singletary, and Mandrel Sanders.