Each March our Kingstree government collects property taxes from its citizens. The funds generated through those taxes provide services we all take for granted. The system has operated efficiently, until a ‘glitch’ was discovered. For the past 30+ years property tax notices have been mailed out a year in advance. A gargantuan mistake as this may pose one to question how something like this could happen or worse go on for so long.
According to the town’s attorney Ernie Jarrett, the issue has been looked into since 1999. “This has been the biggest headache we have ever had,” he said. But those involved were at an impasse for a feasible solution.
Kingstree Town Manager Dan Wells was made aware of the matter soon after taking office in April of this year. After discussions with the attorney, county officials, and the SC Municipal Association, Wells launched an investigation. As a result, the best explanation for the discrepancy was a typographical error made in 1971, but for whatever reason, it translates into Kingstree residents forgoing property taxes in 2010.
To get through the year without the $640,000 in anticipated revenue council could have increased taxes. Instead they will issue a General Obligation Bond and fund the balance out of a savings fund balance. In addition, refinancing of two existing GO bonds will save the town $75,000 to $100,000 over the term those bonds. “There’s not too many times in government that you get a chance to fix a 30 year old problem, give the citizens one year without taxes and not have to raise taxes to pay that off,” said Wells who commended the attorney for his efforts as well as the county for its extraordinary cooperation in finding a viable solution.
Beginning in 2010 the county will assume collection of the town’s property tax.  The county currently provides the service for Lane and Greeleyville. The move will reduce confusion as both city and county tax notices will be sent together. It will also allow the county to have tax sales, with the town as the benefactors of that revenue that is estimated to fall between $60,000 to $95,000. Council passed first reading on an ordinance to enter into an agreement with the county during their October 19, meeting.