Charleston · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Charleston public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
$90 Million Bond for City Buildings and Fire Stations
A bond measure of up to $90 million advanced on second reading — funding the new West Ashley city office building, a police fleet and garage facility, and land for new fire stations.
Stormwater Utility Fee Credit Manual and Homestead Exemptions
The city's stormwater manual requires big projects to design for sea level rise, cut runoff 20% in flood-prone special protection areas, and hit even tougher standards in Church Creek — including 100-year storm storage and 1.25-to-1 mitigation for filling wetlands. Committee members pressed on how often developers use the green infrastructure incentives (not often yet) and whether rules keep pace with county standards.
2027 Municipal Budget Update
The committee is scheduled to review financial updates for the upcoming 2027 fiscal year budget, which will impact city services and funding allocations across Charleston.
Internal Audit Department Expansion and 2026 Audit Plan
The 2025 audit wasn't presented until October 2026, and the finance team worked through its first full year on the new Workday system with several senior accounting jobs unfilled. Auditors recommended improving audit timing going forward.
2025 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and Single Audit
The city's 2025 financial statements earned a clean opinion from outside auditors, and the city again earned a national excellence-in-reporting certificate. One minor federal grant reporting issue was flagged, plus a recommendation to speed up future audit timelines.
2026-2027 Federal Grant Budget Allocations
The committee is reviewing upcoming financial plans for 2027, looking at necessary cost increases, lease purchases, and general fund revenues to keep city services running.
Accommodations Tax Grant Distribution and 10% Cap
Commissioners discussed gaps in accessibility resources provided by the Charleston Visitors Bureau and explored ways to incorporate accessibility information into official tourism materials.
St. Andrews Public Service District Financial Agreement
Council members discussed concerns over the financial arrangements and ongoing costs associated with annexing properties served by the St. Andrews Public Service District. The city is currently awaiting an external audit report to review figures from both the city and the PSD.