Greenville County Rising: Celebrating Our Community, Facing Challenges Together

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 12-8-24

I send this newsletter the morning after a cold but amazing family night at the Greenville City Christmas Parade! Long before I served on County Council, I was blessed to serve as Grand Marshal in the parade. My youngest didn’t get to experience that night, so tonight was his first time being in it. Needless to say, Lincoln stole the show with his Santa Pants Hat! Honored to join fellow Council, City Council, Mayor Know White, and our State Representatives to celebrate the Christmas season in Greenville County!

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Upcoming Holiday Events in Greenville County

December 10–26

• Greenville Gingerbread Exhibit

Where: SpringHill Suites + Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown

Time: 9:00 a.m.

What: Celebrate the season with this impressive gingerbread display featuring works from local bakers.

• “White Christmas:” The Exhibition

Where: Upcountry History Museum

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

What: See costumes, props, sheet music, and personal memorabilia from this famous holiday film.

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December 11

• 2024 Christmas Downtown Concert

Time: 12:05 p.m. – 12:35 p.m.

Location: Christ Church Episcopal, Downtown Greenville

What: Enjoy a festive midday concert downtown.

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December 12–30

• Very Merry Mini Golf

Where: Takeoff Mini Golf, Greenville

Time: 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.

What: Putt through this holiday light show with each hole uniquely decorated.

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December 13–30

• Holidays at the Zoo

Where: Greenville Zoo

Time: Fridays–Sundays, 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.

What: Experience holiday magic at the zoo with lights and festive activities.

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December 14

• TD Saturday Market – Holiday Edition

Where: Downtown Greenville

Time: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

What: Shop unique artisan gifts, seasonal produce, and more.

• Greer Christmas Farmers Market Festival

Where: Greer City Park

Time: 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

What: A festive market with over 50 vendors, live music, and delicious food.

• Travelers Rest Christmas Parade

Where: Downtown Travelers Rest

Time: 10:00 a.m.

What: Celebrate the season with a festive parade.

• Travelers Rest Christmas Market

Where: Trailblazer Park

Time: 12:00 – 4:00 p.m.

What: The largest market of the year for TR Farmers Market with 110+ vendors.

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December 21

• Christmas Holiday Market

Where: Gather Greenville

Time: 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

What: A family gathering featuring local vendors and food from Gather’s tenants.

• Skating on the Big Ice

Where: Bon Secours Wellness Arena

What: Skate on the ice where the Swamp Rabbits play (Dec. 21–26).

Please ensure to verify event details closer to the dates, as schedules are subject to change. I am speaking from personal experience since I had posted several with incorrect dates in the earlier version of this newsletter!:)

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Holiday Safety Tips from the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office

As we enter the 2024 holiday season, the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. The holiday season often brings increased activity, from shopping and traveling to hosting gatherings. While this is a time of celebration, it’s also a time to stay vigilant about safety. Here are some tips and resources provided by the GCSO to help you and your family stay safe:

Home Security

• Ensure all doors and windows are locked, even when you’re at home.

• Use timers for indoor and outdoor lights to give the impression that someone is home.

• Avoid displaying holiday gifts or valuables where they are visible from windows.

• If you’re traveling, ask a trusted neighbor to collect your mail and packages to prevent theft.

Vehicle Safety

• Lock your vehicle and roll up windows, even if you’re away for just a few minutes.

• Park in well-lit areas, especially at malls or shopping centers.

• Conceal gifts, bags, and other valuables in your trunk or out of sight.

• Never leave your vehicle running unattended, even for quick stops.

Shopping Safety

• Stay alert in crowded areas and avoid distractions, such as using your phone while walking.

• Keep your purse or wallet secure and close to your body.

• Shop during daylight hours whenever possible, and always try to shop with a companion.

• Be cautious when returning to your car—look around and check your surroundings. If something seems off, notify security or call 911.

Online Shopping Security

• Use secure websites when shopping online—look for “https” in the URL.

• Monitor your credit card and bank statements for unusual transactions.

• Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

Travel Safety

• Inform a trusted neighbor or family member of your travel plans.

• Avoid posting travel details on social media until you return home.

• Double-check that your home security systems are functioning before leaving.

Community Engagement

The Sheriff’s Office also encourages residents to report any suspicious activities promptly by calling their non-emergency number: 864-271-5210 or in case of an emergency, dial 911.

For more safety tips, visit the GCSO Safety Page

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Building a Stronger Greenville: Volunteer Opportunities

Looking for a way to give back this holiday season? Greenville County is full of opportunities to support your community and make a difference. Whether you want to help with hurricane recovery efforts, assist seniors, or care for animals, there’s a place for you to lend a hand. Here are a few organizations actively seeking volunteers:

• United Way: Assisting with Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, including helping residents clear debris and rebuild.

• Meals on Wheels: Delivering meals to seniors who are homebound, ensuring they have access to warm, nutritious food during the holidays.

• Greenville Humane Society: Caring for animals in need, from walking dogs to assisting with adoptions.

Volunteering is an excellent way to make a positive impact while meeting like-minded neighbors who are also passionate about giving back. These opportunities not only benefit the community but also create a sense of fulfillment for those who contribute.

For a full list of volunteer opportunities and information on how to get involved, visit the Greenville County Volunteer Resource Page

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Hurricane Helene Recovery Efforts

Greenville County has been working tirelessly to recover from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, having collected over 330,000 cubic yards of storm debris so far—equivalent to more than 155 football fields’ worth of tree debris. This monumental effort involves debris collection teams working seven days a week, with operations expected to continue until at least January 2025.

The process is a collaborative effort between state, county, and municipal teams. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) handles debris removal along state roads and highways, ensuring major thoroughfares remain clear. The County focuses on debris removal from county-maintained roads, coordinating with local contractors to address fallen trees, branches, and other storm-related materials. For residents on city-maintained roads, debris collection is managed by the respective municipalities, such as the City of Greenville or Travelers Rest, each with its own contact points for service.

It’s important to note that Greenville County does not handle debris removal from private property, commercial areas, or roads maintained by homeowner associations. Residents are encouraged to coordinate with private contractors or local volunteer organizations, like United Way, for assistance in these cases.

Debris Contact for Greenville County:

• County or private roads: debris@greenvillecounty.org

Debris Contacts for Municipalities:

• City of Greenville: 864-232-2273 or debris@greenvillesc.gov

• Fountain Inn: 864-531-0644

• Greer: 864-848-2184

• Mauldin: 864-289-8904

• Simpsonville: 864-967-9531

• Travelers Rest: 864-834-8740

• FEMA Disaster Assistance: Affected homeowners and renters in Greenville County are encouraged to apply for federal aid:

  Online: www.disasterassistance.gov

  Phone: 1-800-621-3362

• In-person: Disaster Recovery Center (DRC) at Freetown Community Center, 200 Alice Avenue, Greenville, SC 29611. Operating hours are Monday through Saturday, 8 AM to 7 PM. Note the DRC will be closed on December 24-25, 2024, and January 1, 2025, with the final day of operations on January 7, 2025, at 7 PM.

• United Way Cleanup Hotline: Residents can seek volunteer assistance for tree removal, debris clearing, and related tasks by calling 833-799-9880, Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 4 PM.

For more detailed information on recovery efforts, refer to the full December 2024 newsletter from GCEM, available on their website: Greenville County Emergency Management Website

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Greenville County Historic and Natural Land Trust: Assuring Quality of Life and Development Protection

Few organizations in Greenville County have quietly made as profound an impact as the Greenville County Historic and Natural Resources Trust (GCHNRT). Since County Council established and funded the Trust in June 2021, the 12-member all-volunteer Board has helped protect 17 properties across the county, totaling more than 2,100 acres. The latest property under consideration is a beautiful 365-acre state park near Glassy Mountain on Highway 11. With a county investment of roughly $4 million, the Trust has protected real estate valued at nearly $24 million—an incredible return on investment for Greenville County residents. These projects are a true gift to every citizen of Greenville County.

One of the key benefits of the Trust’s work is the unintended blessing of slowing growth in the rural areas of the county. By preserving open spaces and protecting land from overdevelopment, the Trust helps maintain the natural beauty and character of Greenville County while unknowingly helping to manage growth responsibly. The Trust has struck an admirable balance by leveraging local, state, and federal resources to maximize its impact.

Another reason for highlighting the trust is the work of District 19 constituent Pam Shucker, who was recently appointed Chair of the GCHNRT. Pam has dedicated decades to ensuring that development does not overshadow the natural beauty and resources of our district and county. Her commitment is evident through her work preserving a 22-acre urban forest on Poinsett Highway and serving on the boards of Friends of the Reedy River and Keep Greenville Beautiful. Now, as Chair of the GCHNRT, she continues her mission to protect Greenville County’s historic and natural resources, ensuring a brighter future for all of us.

I was also introduced to Pam’s book, Round About Greenville and the Carolina Blue Ridge, and decided to read it. The book beautifully captures the serenity of our region, highlighting the peace and health benefits that come from spending time outdoors. Pam reminds us of the importance of connecting with nature and why preserving these spaces is essential.

For more information on the Trust’s work and the impact it has on our community, visit their website at www.gchnrt.org.

NOTE: While I am always open to learning more about specific types of preservation efforts, I approach these projects cautiously when it comes to Greenville County taxpayer money. I firmly believe that the Trust should focus on land acquisitions that benefit the public directly, such as properties that can be developed into parks or those that serve the collective good, like protecting the Greenville watershed. These types of projects enhance quality of life and align with the Trust’s mission of serving all residents.

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Councilman’s Corner: “What the citizens don’t see”

In a prior newsletter, Decisions in the Dark: The Dysfunction of Local Government, I pulled back the curtain on some of the troubling agenda items fast-tracked through Greenville County’s final meeting of the year. That piece struck a nerve—and it should have. In a follow-up newsletter found HERE, I detailed the results of that meeting. While some items were thankfully rejected, others—more concerning—were adopted. I also explored the fallout that comes when you challenge the “good ole boy” network.

This edition of “Councilman’s Corner” continues that conversation, diving deeper into the political tactics used to discredit those who dare disrupt the status quo. The political land mines are already being planted—luckily in plain sight, but the battle is just beginning. I want to draw attention to this now, so that citizens can be aware and watching as this unfolds leading into next year.

The Cost of Standing Up

When you oppose the machine, the attacks come swiftly. You’ll be labeled inexperienced, have your character questioned, and be excluded from critical conversations. These tactics are meant to send a clear message: don’t disrupt the way things have always been done. Why? Because challenging the status quo threatens not just outdated systems, but also the improper financial benefits some people enjoy at the government’s expense.

Politics, at its worst, becomes a business model—one that can be incredibly lucrative for a select few.

The Unintended Elitism of Government

Government didn’t always look this way. Once upon a time, politicians were teachers, factory workers, and farmers—ordinary Americans representing their communities. Over time, government became a “special club” dominated by wealthy lawyers, real estate developers, and business professionals.

This shift happened because campaigns increasingly demand substantial funding, favoring those with financial resources or connections. While professionals in these fields can bring value, they shouldn’t dominate government. True representation comes from diversity—not just in culture, but in life experience and professions.

Greenville County is a place of vibrant diversity. Our County Council should reflect the same, including voices from community activists, veterans, pilots, bricklayers, bus drivers, small business owners, and even “entertainers” like me. Without this variety, policies risk prioritizing special interests over public needs, alienating the very people government is meant to serve.

Everyday Americans Who Became Politicians

The idea that politics is only for the elite is a myth. Across the country, people from ordinary, and sometimes not so ordinary professions, have stepped up to lead—bringing authenticity and fresh perspectives to government.

• Clay Higgins (Congressman, Louisiana): Before joining Congress, Higgins was a police officer and sheriff’s deputy. Known for his direct communication, Higgins exemplifies how public service backgrounds can inspire strong unshakable leadership.

• Harry Truman (33rd President of the United States): Truman’s early career included farming and running a clothing store. Without wealth or elite connections, he built a legacy of integrity and perseverance.

• Jesse Ventura (Governor, Minnesota): Former wrestler and “entertainer”, Ventura’s leadership broke through traditional political barriers, proving the value of unconventional backgrounds.

Local Leaders Challenging the Status Quo in South Carolina

Closer to home, South Carolina is witnessing a grassroots movement of individuals stepping into leadership roles. Just a few examples of a growing list are:

• Matthew Durham (Oconee County Council Chairman): A lifelong resident of Mountain Rest, Durham champions community-first governance. I have been watching how he and others are trying to truly give the government back to the people there, and their examples in strong leadership are being observed and appreciated much more than they may realize!

• Danny Bright (Union County Council, District 1): A friend and hard-working patriot, Bright’s experience in auto parts management and telecommunications brings relatable, blue-collar perspectives to his role. His is also unwavering in his resolve to be a voice to the people of Union County.

• Tommy Adkins (York County Council, District 3): A farmer proudly representing the working class, Adkins continues running his family farm, proving that authentic representation resonates with voters. The fact that he wears his overalls under his suit jacket still gives me joy every time I see a picture!

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A Seismic Shift in Greenville County: A Unique Opportunity for Change

I saw this phrase “Seismic Shift” recently in an article discussing what current council have been doing simply because change is coming. Read about it HERE—but it really got me thinking about the other side of this argument.

I ran for office to be part of a transformation. My campaign wasn’t just about earning a seat on County Council—it was about proving that change is possible without compromising integrity. Greenville County residents entrusted me with the privilege of helping to reshape local government, ensuring it reflects the values of our hardworking and diverse community.

With new leaders soon to be in place, we now have an even greater opportunity to build a council that mirrors Greenville County’s richness and vitality. By embracing diversity of thought, background, and experience, we can foster better decision-making and a more inclusive government. This movement is already underway. People from various professions are stepping forward to lead. The transition will not be without its challenges, but to me, it’s a sign of real progress. YOU are creating a government that truly reflects the people it serves—one that prioritizes real-world experience and integrity over insider politics. I’m honored to be part of this transformation, and I believe that it will lead to lasting, meaningful change.

Most importantly, these new members of Council were selected by the people of their districts. Some of the rhetoric I have heard inside our own County building from both colleagues and staff essentially turns a blind eye to almost 250,000 citizens who decided they wanted new leadership.

This isn’t new and something I have seen before………

Just as I told the current Council in our first meeting over two years ago, I will work with ALL 11 other members of Council who are willing to sit down at the table and do the PROPER work of Greenville County and its citizens. Anything less than that is everything that has been wrong with Greenville County Council in years past, and I will in no way contribute to letting that trend continue.

Regardless of the tactics of those who think they are “masters of the game”, change is on the horizon! Together, we can build a government that uplifts everyone in Greenville County—not just a select few. This isn’t just my vision—it’s our County’s shared mission!

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With Council business finished for the year, I still commit to providing newsletters weekly. If you have any ideas that would be good for sections of those upcoming newsletter, please reach out to me via email (bblount@greenvillecounty.org). Here are some ideas:

• What new programs or initiatives would you like to see introduced in Greenville County?

• Are there areas where you feel county resources are underutilized or overextended?

• What specific challenges or issues in your community do you feel need more attention?

• How can I better communicate council updates or decisions to keep you informed?

• Are there topics you feel are underrepresented in local government discussions?

• What local businesses, events, or organizations would you like highlighted in future newsletters?

• What concerns do you have about the future growth and development of Greenville County?

• How can the county improve transparency or engagement with its citizens?

• Are there volunteer opportunities or charitable efforts you’d like featured to encourage community involvement?

• What are your thoughts on current county policies or initiatives, and how can they be improved?