Dorchester County Council District 6 Candidate Outreach

As part of the Greater Summerville/Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to supporting a strong business climate and an informed electorate, we reached out to the candidates running for the Dorchester County Council District 6 seat. Each candidate was invited to share their perspectives on issues that impact our local business community and the overall quality of life in Dorchester County.

Early voting is currently underway through March 20, and the official election day for the party primary will be held on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

The Chamber extended the same opportunity to each candidate in the race. At the time of publication, Daniel Rogers and Tommy Feagin did not respond to requests for their answers.

Below are the responses submitted by Frank Staropoli in response to the Chamber’s candidate questionnaire.

1. Business & Economic Development:

What strategies would you support to strengthen business growth and economic

development in Dorchester County?

I support targeted, responsible growth that attracts quality employers while protecting existing local businesses. That means streamlining permitting where appropriate, supporting smart industrial recruitment that fits our infrastructure

capacity, and investing in small business success through partnerships with the Chamber. My focus is on sustainable economic development that broadens our tax base so we can reduce pressure on homeowners while creating high-quality jobs for District 6 residents.

  2. Workforce & Infrastructure:

What do you see as the county’s most pressing infrastructure challenge, and how would you address it?

Congestion and capacity constraints affect both quality of life and business productivity. I support a proactive, data-driven capital improvement plan that prioritizes road improvements, turn lanes, drainage, and utility expansion in

coordination with growth corridors. Equally important is workforce readiness—working alongside the Chamber, school district, and technical colleges to ensure employers have access to skilled local talent. Smart infrastructure investment today prevents costly catch-up spending tomorrow.

  3. Quality of Life:

How should County Council balance growth with preserving the quality of life that

attracts residents and businesses to our community?

I support thoughtful land-use planning that preserves green space, protects rural character where appropriate, and directs higher-density development to areas that can support it. By expanding our commercial tax base and managing growth responsibly, we can maintain low tax pressure while preserving the natural assets and community character that make our county special.

  4. Business Community Engagement:

How will you work collaboratively with local businesses and organizations like the

Chamber to support a strong local economy?

Collaboration will be a cornerstone of my service. The Greater Summerville Dorchester County Chamber of Commerce is an essential partner in understanding business needs in real time. I will maintain regular dialogue with the Chamber, host business roundtables, and ensure county decisions reflect input from job creators both large and small. My goal is to remove unnecessary barriers, improve predictability in county processes, and foster public-private partnerships that strengthen our local economy while respecting taxpayers.

  5. Leadership & Vision:

Why are you the best person to serve in this County Council seat?

District 6 needs leadership that listens, collaborates, and plans ahead—not reacts after problems arise. I am committed to working closely with residents, the business community, and partners like the Chamber to build a county that remains affordable, economically vibrant, and a great place to live and work for generations to come. I have a record of serving our community and will continue to do so from a council posture. I want to leave it better than I found it and secure our future for my childrens' children.

Learn more about Frank Staropoli here.

Learn more about Tommy Feagin here.

Learn more about Daniel Rogers here.