The Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors officially approved support for the Dorchester County penny referendum. 

In November voters will be asked to approve a measure for the County to raise $735,000,000 for roads. The move wouldn’t actually increase taxes. It would simply continue the rate residents and visitors are already paying when the current tax sunsets. 

“This penny is the only funding mechanism that we have to build and improve roads around Dorchester County,” Rita Berry, Chamber President and CEO, said. “An important thing to understand is that this is a user fee, so everyone using the roads will help pay for them – including tourist and anyone purchasing goods and services in Dorchester County.  Without this continuation penny, we will find it to be more challenging to get around safely and in a more time efficient manner.”

The Chamber points to progress made by the previously passed penny. Highway 78, Trolley and Dorchester Roads were all widen by the penny the Chamber supported and voters approved in 2004. That penny sales tax is set to expire in 2024. When it does, the next round of funding would begin- if voters pass the referendum this November. 

“We have an opportunity and must keep this momentum going. This isn’t going to increase what you’re currently being charged on purchases, but it will ensure that the much needed infrastructure work continues.  We encourage you to join us in supporting this penny,” Berry said.

If voters pass the referendum in November, the County conservatively expects to raise $735 million over the course of 15 years. The County also hopes to work on pavement preservation, dirt road improvements; and intersection and safety upgrades.  A portion ($35 million) of the sales tax can also be used for greenbelt projects like trails, bike, and pedestrian options.

Learn more about the penny for roads here: https://www.facebook.com/voteyesdorchester